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America’s best weekly REMEMBER THOSE LOST TO POLICE AND RACIAL VIOLENCE PittsburghNEW Courier www.newpittsburghcourier.com thenewpittsburghcourier Vol. 111 No. 28 Two Sections JULY 8-14, 2020 Published Weekly $1.00 SAY THEIR NAMES

AND WAY TOO PittsburghNEW Courier To subscribe, call 412-481-8302 MANY MORE! ext. 136 A2 JULY 8-14, 2020 METRO NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER WILKINSBURG IN FOCUS

AYDEN AND MADISON GIVNER, both 5 years old, at the Wilkinsburg Strong Peace March, held Satur- THE FAMILY OF ROMIR TALLEY—Romir Talley, a 24-year-old Black male, was shot and killed by day, June 20. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello) Wilkinsburg police in December 2019, after police were called to a scene where a man was allegedly threatening another person with a gun. Wilkinsburg police say they shot Talley after he fi red a shot at them fi rst—the Talley family, however, wants more transparency into all the details that transpired. The Allegheny County DA’s offi ce said the case is under review. See more photos on Page A7. Peace March calls for end to recent violence, and transparency in police shooting of Romir Talley

Mayor Marita Garrett: ‘I never waved or pointed a gun at anyone’ Mayor speaks out after protesters unexpectedly came to her home

WILKINSBURG MAYOR MARITA GARRETT, at a press conference in front of the Wilkinsburg Borough Building, July 1. (Photo by Courier photographer J.L. Martello) on June 30

by Rob Taylor Jr. was shot seven times. Mayor Garrett contin- Mike Manko with the Courier Staff Writer ued: “I did not wave or Allegheny County Dis- point my gun at anyone.” Was it a bird? Was it a trict Attorney’s Office The mayor also told the plane? told the Courier on July Courier exclusively, July Whatever it looked like 2 the case is still under 2, that she was informed on Facebook, television or review. that the family of Romir other outlets, Wilkinsburg “As a Black woman pe- Talley met with the Al- Mayor Marita Garrett, riod, but especially as a legheny County police in an exclusive interview Black woman, being a department sometime in with the New Pittsburgh public figure, an elected late June. At this point, Courier, Thursday after- official, I’ve been disre- Mayor Garrett said, the noon, July 2, emphatically spected, I’ve felt unpro- family actually has more denied she ever waved or tected for so long....and information about the pointed a gun at anyone as especially just increased open investigation into protesters descended upon when getting into office, the shooting than she her home on June 30. how people approach me, does, contrary to reports THE “I was never waving how people will roll up from those who feel that NEW PITTSBURGH a gun,” Mayor Garrett on me, so yes, I do have Mayor Garrett is hiding said. “I never waved a a license to carry and I information. COURIER gun and I never pointed am ready to protect my “These calls for, ‘She’s PUBLISHING COMPANY a gun at anyone. What home, myself and my covering up, she’s hiding happened was, protest- family,” Garrett told the this’ and all of that stuff, ers were at my house, Courier. “So my mom had I have less information Publication No.: USPS 381940 I didn’t see any police, asked me, ‘Marita, do than the family at this 315 East Carson Street there were about, at you have your gun?’ And point,” Mayor Garrett Pittsburgh, PA 15219 that time, about 25-30 I showed her my gun, told the Courier. “I have people already assem- and then I put it back in done what I can do in my Phone: 412-481-8302 bled, already screaming, my pocket. So, again, it role as mayor...the infor- Fax: 412-481-1360 already yelling obscen- was never my intent for mation that they keep ities, vulgar remarks, anyone to think I was trying to seek from me, The and so my mom goes out- waving or pointing it at they (the family) have. New Pittsburgh Courier (side)...” them, because I wasn’t I can’t provide anything is published weekly Protesters apparently waving or pointing it at else. I’ve tried to lay had come to Mayor Gar- them. I showed my mom, it out many times that rett’s home in Wilkins- put it back in my pocket, when a murder happens Periodicals burg after a public meet- and that was it.” or a homicide happens in paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. ing had been canceled But what about the Wilkinsburg, it automat- PRICE $1.00 earlier in the evening. Facebook photos circu- ically goes to the county Some people are angry at lating that show Mayor police department. They (Payable in advance) Mayor Garrett because Garrett sitting in front are the ones who investi- they feel she is not being of her home, with some- gate our homicides.” as transparent as pos- thing in her hand, possi- Mayor Garrett told the 6 Months—$25 sible pertaining to the bly waving it? Courier she’s been want- 1 Year—$45 December 2019 shoot- “I’m on my phone. You ing to meet with the im- ing death of 24-year-old can’t text on a gun,” May- mediate family of Talley 2 Years—$85 Romir Talley, a Black or Garrett said. “I was since late December. She 9-Month School Rate $35 man who was shot and texting on my phone. So, told the Courier she had killed by an unnamed that’s where all of that met with community ac- AND WAY TOO POSTMASTER: Send Wilkinsburg police of- is. But again, I’m ready tivists who thought they ficer. The Wilkinsburg to protect and defend could get the mayor in address changes to: police department said myself, and as a Black touch with the Talley Talley fired a weapon at woman, especially in this family, but it hasn’t oc- New Pittsburgh Courier the officers first, and one region, we have reports curred yet. Mayor Gar- 315 East Carson Street of their officers returned that show, Black women rett told the Courier she MANY MORE! Pittsburgh, PA 15219 fire, striking and killing are not safe in the Pitts- Talley. Talley, in fact, burgh region.” SEE MAYOR A7 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER JULY 8-14, 2020 A3 A4 JULY 8-14, 2020 METRO NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER ‘I need to know what happened to my son’ Danielle Brown demands COURIER EXCLUSIVE UPDATE answers in 2018 death of On Tuesday afternoon, July 7, the Courier’s Ricco J.L. Martello reported that Duquesne University officials Duquesne University met with Danielle Brown. She returned to Freedom Corner around 7:30 p.m. student Marquis Brown that evening, and the Courier’s Ash- ley Woodson reported that Brown said overall, she was not satisfied with the by Ashley Woodson trict, demanding more information, more answers answers she was given by university For New Pittsburgh Courier from authorities and uni- officials. Pittsburgh Police have versity officials. said that 21-year-old “I’ve been knocking Marquis Jaylen Brown and knocking, and I still jumped from a Duquesne don’t have any answers be open enough to share one is it?” University dorm room on two years later,” Dan- as opposed to be able to Danielle Brown added: the 16th floor to his death ielle Brown told the New share while they were “There were four people in October 2018. Pittsburgh Courier ex- still students.” in the room when my son But Danielle Brown, clusively, July 5. “I’ve Investigators said that supposedly jumped out of Marquis’ mother, isn’t been knocking through Marquis Brown, of Wash- the window and no one buying what the police my attorney and through ington, D.C., had mari- did anything to stop my and university are sell- Pittsburgh Police trying juana in his system when son. It just doesn’t make ing. to find out what hap- he jumped from the win- sense. And he had a gash So much so that she pened to my son, hoping dow—a window that was on his head because some- spent the past days on a that people will come to broken after he allegedly one hit him. Fifty percent hunger strike at Freedom me. Maybe they felt after broke it with a chair. Wit- of the window was still in- Corner in the Hill Dis- graduation they would DANIELLE BROWN, holding a photo of her son, Marquis Brown. nesses told police Marquis tact, so I think he was un- (Photos by Courier photographer Ashley Woodson) Brown was acting “errati- conscious and bent over cally” in his dorm room. when he went out of the But Danielle Brown window. This whole sce- wants to know how the up nario was suspicious from to four people who were the beginning. The only in the same dorm room way to solve this case is with him somehow didn’t to have an independent prevent Marquis from investigation to trace his jumping out the window. steps.” She told WPXI-TV (Chan- On June 21, the family nel 11) on Monday, July 6, and friends of Marquis

“I need to know what happened to my son and I don’t need anyone else’s narrative. I only want the narrative that my independent investigator can deliver. They’re not attached to Duquesne University or the Pittsburgh Police department. It would be a person being able to have access to information and give me an informed explanation of what could have happened to my son and not leaving me scratching my head.” -DANIELLE BROWN

that “either the four peo- Brown held a rally and ple in the room watched march in the Hill District him jump out that win- and Uptown, demand- dow, or they had their ing more answers into hands in participating in the Duquesne football him going out that win- player’s death. Danielle dow.” Brown was in attendance at the rally, and then returned to D.C. But she’s back in Pittsburgh. “What brought me back…at Freedom Cor- ner is the symbolism of St. Benedict The Moor (church) where the statue’s hands are stretched as if it’s praising God,” Danielle Brown told the Courier. “This has been a spiritual walk for me. The hunger fast is spiritual and I’m willing to lay down my life for my son’s truth and narrative that makes sense. It’s either not being able to breathe at home in Washington, D.C., or come here to Pittsburgh to get my oxygen. This has given me the ability to find out the truth. This is to let them know I’m here and to finally get some answers. I also have demands for change for reform and this is what’s giving me oxygen.” Late Tuesday, July 7, “Two years later I now the Courier learned that see that I need to have Duquesne University of- an independent investi- ficials went to Freedom gation,” Danielle Brown Corner and met with told the Courier exclu- Danielle Brown. She re- sively. “I need to know turned to Freedom Cor- what happened to my son ner around 7:30 p.m. that and I don’t need anyone evening, and told a group else’s narrative. I only of supporters that the want the narrative that university “didn’t give me my independent investi- any names of the people gator can deliver. They’re in the room when my son not attached to Duquesne died. I don’t have ballistic University or the Pitts- reports and I’m hoping burgh Police department. through my own indepen- It would be a person be- dent investigation that I ing able to have access to will receive that informa- information and give me tion.” an informed explanation Danielle Brown said of what could have hap- that Duquesne offered her pened to my son and not a hotel room and dinner, leaving me scratching my “but I didn’t come here for head.” that. They did not have Danielle Brown told the to share with me (infor- Courier that she believes mation) but I’m grateful anything could have hap- they did. Unfortunately it pened to her son, includ- was information I already ing being slipped “an acid knew.” drug. At this point, any- She said her goal is to thing is possible without raise funds for an inde- the truth. Not too long pendent investigation “to ago, the police department get to the truth for jus- said the case was closed, tice for my son, Marquis but on the news the other Jaylen Brown.” night, they said the police department said the case is always open…which NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER RELIGION/METRO JULY 8-14, 2020 A5 Rita Canton named executive director/ Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR head of school at Nazareth Prep CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. The New Pittsburgh Cou- Canton also has 15 years of Pgh., PA 15219 rier has learned that Rita elementary and secondary 412-281-3141 Canton, the principal of teaching experience. She Vincentian Academy High worked for nine years as a Sunday Mass School, which recently mathematics teacher and 10:30 A.M. closed permanently, has campus minister at North been named executive Catholic High School, www.stbtmchurch.org director/head of school where she helped plan the at Nazareth Prep High liturgies, prayers and fac- East Liberty Presbyterian Church School. ulty and student retreats The announcement was and acted as the liaison Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, made June 23. between the school and the Senior Pastor In a release provided to Diocese Department of Re- 412-441-3800 the Courier, Canton brings ligious Education. more than 20 years of Canton’s educational Worship Online on Facebook/YouTube teaching and school leader- background includes a www.ELPC.church ship experience to her new master’s degree in science role at the helm of Naza- education and secondary Journey Worship...... 8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship...... 11 a.m. reth Prep, a college and ca- mathematics certification Taize -Wednesdays...... 7 p.m. reer preparatory school. from Chatham Universi- “Rita has a track record ty, a master of theology of promoting excellence,” degree from Xavier Uni- said Sister Linda Yankos- versity of Louisiana and a Curious about ki, president and CEO of certification in educational Nazareth Prep, in the re- administration from the Quakerism? lease. “She joins Nazareth University of Scranton. Prep during a year that Her studies in pastoral You Are Welcome has been uncertain and theology at Xavier Univer- at our Meetings for Worship challenging for all educa- sity focused on Black spir- Sundays at 10:30 a.m. tional institutions, and we ituality and social justice Pittsburgh Friends Meeting can think of no one better issues such as ethnic and 4836 Ellsworth Avenue to tackle these challenges racial disparities in educa- and steer the school along tion, racism, gender equal- www.quaker.org/pghpamm/ a continued path of excep- ity, classism and poverty tional education.” in light of faith and the Canton joins Nazareth teachings of the Catholic Prep following four years Church. as principal and head of “I am blessed to join Naz- Join our school at Vincentian. Prior areth Prep, a school whose to her tenure there, Canton commitment to social jus- served for six years as the tice and to cultivating the growing principal at Sister Thea whole student—academi- Bowman Catholic Acad- cally, socially, emotionally emy, a parochial school and spiritually—aligns in Wilkinsburg, that she with my own,” Canton re- Praise helped to open in 2010. marked in the release. “I Canton’s high standards look forward to working RITA CANTON enabled Sister Thea Bow- with the students of Naza- man Catholic Academy reth Prep as they grow into and to become a model school the deeply educated and school dedicated to pro- personalized preparatory workplace and empowers for the nation, the release community-minded lead- viding an affordable, pro- program and unique in- them as designers of the read. ers of tomorrow.” gressive education to stu- ternship experience, Naz- future, the release said. Worship In addition to her expe- Nazareth Prep is an in- dents of all backgrounds. areth Prep prepares stu- rience as a school leader, dependent Catholic high Through a rigorous yet dents for college and the Church Pittsburgh’s Black Women For Positive Change Community! For rate infor- organization receives $20,000 grant mation, call 412- 481-8302, ext. The New Pittsburgh their communities.” Courier has learned that Diane Powell, chair of 128. Black Women For Positive the Pittsburgh chapter of Change, which has a chap- Black Women For Positive ter in Pittsburgh, recently Change, said the grant received a $20,000 grant would benefit the orga- from the group Everytown nization in promoting its for Gun Safety. three principles: Working TELL US Everytown for Gun Safe- to improve relationships ty, a nonprofit, advocates the community and police; for gun control and against Increasing youth involve- ABOUT gun violence throughout ment in violence preven- the country. tion initiatives; Engag- “Black Women For Posi- ing faith institutions and YOUR tive Change has continued the community to build to serve a valuable role in healthy, spiritual bonds the Pittsburgh communi- and develop programs for NEXT ty, even during the pan- social justice, while serv- demic,” said Michael-Sean ing as a conduit for the Spence, director of Policy community. and Implementation at BW4PC is also finaliz- CHURCH Everytown for Gun Safety ing its ninth annual Week Support Fund, in a state- of Non-Violence, with the ment to the Courier. “The theme: “Non-Violence, EVENT! evidence-based strategies Health Empowerment and they use to prevent shoot- Opportunities.” We want to place ings, and their partner- Powell also told the Cou- your event in our ship with their local Moms rier BW4PC is going to DIANE POWELL Demand Action group is sponsor local students Church Circuit something we’re proud to to attend the March on support. With sustained Washington on Aug. 28. rience the significance of tration,” Powell said. would focus on strength- weekly calendar! funding, groups like theirs “Our goal is to provide this historic event, first- BW4PC is also planning ening Black families and can continue to make a an opportunity for local hand, and to gain civic ex- a series of “Communi- raising healthy youth. Send info to: difference in the lives of youth to travel and expe- perience with voter regis- ty Conversations” which New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh PA 15219 Did you miss the Courier’s special edition, Or Email us! religion@ “Celebrating e Graduates,” June 24? newpittsburgh courier.com The See the more than 300 Courier local Class of 2020 is THE VOICE graduates on our website, newpittsburghcourier.com of Black Pittsburgh. A6 JULY 8-14, 2020 HEALTH NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER Take Charge Of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved. COVID-19 vaccine trials must include Black community This month, the “Take Charge of Your up 25% of all COVID-19 cases in Allegheny ment phase. African American participants Health Today” page discusses vaccine tri- County (according to the Allegheny County are then typically interacting with an all- als and their relationship with Pittsburgh’s Health Department), yet only make up about white research team. This could lead to lower African American community. The current 13% of its population. We can’t afford not to retention rates. Including African Americans COVID-19 pandemic has increased pres- be included in the COVID-19 vaccine clinical throughout the entire process looks like gar- sure for the medical community to develop trials. nering input around recruitment and reten- a vaccine to combat COVID-19. The devel- In order to gain footing in research-inclu- tion plans, protocols and the dissemination opment of a new vaccine means that clinical sive spaces, it is my hope that studies include process. trials will eventually begin to recruit par- opportunities for community input on topics Establish pipelines for researchers from ticipants. We must ensure that COVID-19 like the value of participation. What is in it for the community. African Americans are usu- clinical trials will include African American community members who are asked to share ally an afterthought when conducting re- participants. Systemic racism in the United their lived experiences? What is the plan for search studies. Most researchers who are States is responsible for the medical mistrust returning results, including closing the loop receiving funding to study our communities among African Americans and could be part on the work in and with communities—par- often decide on a research question based on of the reason for their historically low partic- ESTHER BUSH ticularly black and brown communities that surface knowledge. However, we know that ipation in clinical trials. have been historically marginalized—to this is not an equitable process. Researchers In my role as codirector of the Community lic health’s sector failure to establish trust ensure that researchers are doing the work are instead contributing to the medical mis- PARTners core at the University of Pitts- keeps the Tuskegee stigma alive. they set out to do? Accountability in research trust by doing research on African Ameri- burgh’s Clinical and Translational Science The Community PARTners core and the environment means so much. When possible, can communities instead of with them. The Institute (CTSI) and as president and CEO Urban League are vigilant and hold our thinking about offering both day and evening Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh has of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, I medical system accountable, ensuring Pitts- hours to participate in the research, provid- been partnering with CTSI for more than have made a commitment to inform and ed- burgh’s African American community that ing childcare and offering inroads to break 14 years now. In that time, I have learned so ucate people about how they can take charge this will never happen again. down defi nitions and ethical considerations much from CTSI leaders like Dr. Steve Reis of their health. State-sanctioned violence has In a 2015-16 Food and Drug Administra- and exploring safety and privacy in ways and my friend Dr. Elizabeth Miller. In turn, been perpetuated against African Americans tion report, of the women who participated that all participants understand, are critical they have also learned a lot from the African in the name of medicine since the United in cardiovascular trials in the United States, to making research inclusive. American community. This reciprocal rela- States’ inception. The “Tuskegee Study of only 3.2% identifi ed as African American, I have two recommendations for research- tionship between our two organizations has Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male,” a while 78.7% of participants identifi ed as ers who want to increase African American helped to build a pipeline between research- United States’ Public Health Service-led re- white. The racial makeup of these studies participation in clinical trials. Be mindful ers and the African American community. I search study from 1932 to 1972, intention- does not refl ect the 13.7% of African Amer- that these suggestions are not a complete am extremely proud of the mutual trust and ally infected African American males with ican women in the country. This does not list and are only intended to initiate the di- respect our organizations have built. I look syphilis without their consent. The study’s seem to be an adequate sample of African alogue. forward to what we will continue to accom- participants were not adequately treated, American women and raises red fl ags on the Include us throughout the entire research plish together. and, in some cases, not treated at all, even by accuracy of treatment outcomes for all wom- process. Hiring a research recruiter that Thank you, readers. Please join the Take 1947 when penicillin was commonly used to en. Because we want studies of the current looks like us does not help to overcome the Charge of Your Health page next month treat the disease. We may not have any un- coronavirus pandemic to apply to all of us, barrier of mistrust. Even if the recruiter can when we talk about food insecurity, with ethical historical precedents like Tuskegee African American participation in clinical connect with the African American commu- particular insight into access during the in our city or universities; however, the pub- trials is essential. African Americans make nity, that relationship ends after the recruit- COVID-19 pandemic. Pittsburgh vaccine trials at forefront of COVID-19 research

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, and indicate their interest in being a people in the United States were part of the phase-three study so that afraid of contracting polio, a highly the community is prepared for when contagious, disabling and sometimes the study begins. deadly disease. It hit children espe- As with any study, Drs. Martin and cially hard. At its peak in 1952, the Hoberman say it is necessary for the virus infected 60,000 children. Some COVID-19 vaccine study to include parents kept their children indoors people of any race, gender, sex or and isolated during the summer, a ethnicity. The more diverse a study season when the virus seemed espe- population is, the better the chance is cially rampant. Only a vaccine could that the vaccine will be effective for protect people from the disease. everyone. University of Pittsburgh researchers Researchers are learning more about Jonas Salk, MD, Julius Youngner, ScD, COVID-19 every day. Dr. Hoberman and colleagues had been working for says that while we cannot yet know years on a polio vaccine. Children in when a vaccine will be available, the Pittsburgh participated in the first different phases of the vaccine trials JUDITH MARTIN, MD ALEJANDRO HOBERMAN, MD small study of a potential vaccine. In are progressing quickly. But when it 1955, after a larger, nationwide trial, and the best fit for the community. The fessor of Pediatric Research, Univer- is time to conduct phase-three studies the vaccine was proved safe and effec- unit is multidisciplinary, with people sity of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, of vaccines, Drs. Martin and Hober- tive. It was widely considered to be a from internal medicine, pediatrics, professor of clinical and translational man want Pittsburgh to be in on it. monumental achievement in public family medicine, infectious diseases, medicine and codirector, Pittsburgh “We want our community to have the health that led to the eventual erad- vaccine development companies, Pitt’s Vaccine Trials Unit. advantages of a COVID-19 vaccine,” ication of new polio cases from the Clinical and Translational Science In- When the vaccines are ready for says Dr. Martin. “I see it as the best United States. stitute and from the community. phase three clinical trials, Drs. Mar- of both worlds: We’re bringing some- During the COVID-19 pandemic, we “Our job as scientists is to digest tin and Hoberman want to hit the thing to the community that’s poten- are, again, keeping our distance from what we learn about each of the vac- ground running. To do that, they say tially going to protect them, and they each other and waiting for a vaccine. cine options and bring to the commu- they first need to understand the can benefit from it earlier than the Many different vaccines are in de- nity the one we think has the best needs of the community and what peo- rest of the population. This is going to velopment around the world, includ- chance for success,” says Alejandro ple’s concerns are. Then, people will be another opportunity for Pittsbur- ing at the University of Pittsburgh. Hoberman, MD, Jack L. Paradise Pro- be asked to go to the online registry ghers to demonstrate that they can Drs. Alejandro Hoberman and Judith contribute to scientific progress.” Martin have conducted vaccine research in the region for 20 years through their Clinical Tri- als Unit. Now Pittsburghers will have another chance to participate in studies that could change lives for the better worldwide. The unit is preparing to conduct a COVID-19 vaccine study in the region. The effort begins with creating a registry of people who may be interested in participating in such a study. Creating a registry of interested people will lay the ground- work for when a vaccine trial is ready to begin. Research studies are a multi-phase, rigorous- ly monitored process. The first phase of a trial is a safety study, according to Judith Martin, MD, professor of pediatrics, Universi- ty of Pittsburgh School of Med- icine and codirector, Pittsburgh Vaccine Trials Unit. “A phase-one study isn’t looking at whether the vaccine works,” she says. “Phase one is when we’re just making sure the vaccine is safe and doesn’t cause harm. Phase two of the study is where we know the vaccine is safe, but we’re trying to figure out the dose and make sure it would be effective. Phase three builds on the findings of the previous phases. We know the vaccine is safe, and we’re fairly confident it’s going to work. Phase three studies are large scale with hundreds, if not thousands, of participants.” Currently, there are more than 100 vaccines in development around the world. To bring a COVID-19 vaccine trial to the area, the Pittsburgh Vaccine Trials Unit must evaluate each vaccine to see which is the safest NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER METRO JULY 8-14, 2020 A7 WILKINSBURG IN FOCUS Peace March calls for end to recent violence, and transparency in police shooting of Romir Talley

REMEMBERING KELVIN “FATS” LOVELACE—Lynaesha Young, LaShaun King, Sharell Barnett and Sierra Lovelace, holding a shirt remembering their loved one, Kelvin Lovelace. Kelvin, who was 14 years old, was shot and killed in East Hills in 2015.

Mayor Marita Garrett: ‘I never waved or pointed a gun at anyone’ Mayor speaks out after protesters unexpectedly came to her home on June 30

MAYOR FROM A2 wants to meet with Tall- the Talley case because like (Bill) Peduto’s the ey’s mother, Latasha Tall- other local residents mayor of Pittsburgh, why ey, as soon as possible. have “called her out” on can’t she be accountable “They can contact me it. Price also didn’t be- for what’s going on in her through email, mgarrett@ lieve that Mayor Garrett community? That’s all wilkinsburgpa.gov. The had been trying to reach we’re saying.” number is 412-287-2551.” out to the Talley family, A #WilkinsburgStrong Prior to Mayor Garrett’s and that’s been over six Prayer for Peace March interview with the Cou- months since the Dec. 22, was also held in Wilkins- rier on July 2, the mayor 2019 shooting death of burg, Saturday, June 20, held a press conference Talley. to not only call for an end in front of the Wilkins- “Why would you lie to to the violence that’s hap- burg Borough Building, the people, why lie to the pened in the borough of Wednesday, July 1, to ad- newspaper and tell them, late, but for more answers dress the incident that ‘I reached out to the fam- in the Talley shooting occurred in front of her ily’ when you know you death. home on June 30. didn’t? That was a bald- There were five homi- But Rose Price, a local faced lie,” Price said at cides in Wilkinsburg in resident, appeared at the the news conference. “Ev- June, including a triple press conference, and in- erybody keeps trying to homicide that occurred in ferred that the mayor is stand back from Marita, the early morning hours only speaking out about but she’s the mayor. Just of June 19. A8 JULY 8-14, 2020 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER New Pittsburgh Courier The Declaration of Classifieds Independence, Find what you need revolutionary ideas and from jobs to cars changing systems to housing J. Pharoah Doss B6 BUSINESSJULY 8-14, 2020 B4-5 B www.newpittsburghcourier.com PROPERTY IS POWER! To invest or not to invest As you may be aware the $2 tril- lion Cares Act rescue package includes a one-time pay out to individuals and families. And by now many of you if not all have received your stimulus check. While some have spent it, many are de- termining the wisest ways to invest, spend or save it. The specif- ics are: Corona Virus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act included a one-time check, up to $1,200 for individuals, up to $2,400 for married coupled and $500 added for each child based on income. Some of you may have received the check and used it to cover essential needs and to pay other economic obligations you may have. Once those obligations have been Former McDonald’s execs strike met you should use the money to help build your emergency fund to cover three back in race discrimination lawsuit to six months of expenses. by Trevor Coleman and fast food chain, allege the discrimina- ish-born Steve Easterbrook, came on Once those two tion and harassment started and pro- board in 2015 and initiated a corporate things have Trevor W. Coleman II gressive programs came to a screeching restructuring plan that de-emphasized been accom- The Michigan Chronicle halt following a change in corporate racial diversity and input from Black plished consid- leadership at McDonald’s in 2015. In executives and franchisees. She and (Part 1 of a series.) their suit they said the new regime en- Guster-Hines were then demoted from er investing … For more than 50 years the McDon- very cautiously gaged in systemic racist and discrimi- vice-president to senior director posi- ald’s Corporation took pride in brand- natory behavior and civil rights abuses tions in July 2018. invest or even ing itself as a socially conscious corpo- donate. against them and other Black execu- They are seeking compensation follow- ration particularly interested in doing tives. ing those demotions, claiming that they If you are one ANTHONY O. KELLUM business in abandoned and long-ignored of those people Among the allegations were that one occurred as a result of discrimination. Black communities while embracing ra- top White male executive repeatedly “When they assumed leadership, it be- who are fortu- cial diversity as a critical component of nate enough to cover your neces- referred to them as “angry Black wom- came very clear that African American its corporate ethos. en” and another who earlier had re- stakeholders were no longer a strate- sities and your emergency fund is It is a philosophy that helped create a already tight, you may be holding ferred to Black employees as “n__gers” gic priority and the environment be- popular narrative and also focus on the came toxic,” she on to the money wondering how to story that the Chicago-based put that money to work. A couple said. “An exam- company was a progressive ple would be, you of things to consider, either save it business and a place where or invest it for the long haul. Cur- know, cutting ad- African Americans could vertising spend- rently, you are able to earn great grow, find mentors, promo- equities (equities are the values ing with African tions, and economic oppor- American agencies of shares issued by a company.) tunity. There could be great investment that impacted, of However, that image may course, African opportunities waiting on inves- have been shattered this tors. American custom- year in a lawsuit brought ers and local com- Equities are a smart investment by two African Ameri- for long term investors. Currently munity organiza- can female executives who tions, and it didn’t they are down approximately 32 claim that under new lead- percent from all-time highs and make economic ership, the company not sense, it didn’t it would be wise to start slowly only deliberately divested taking advantage of these oppor- make good busi- from the Black community ness sense.” tunities. and businesses, but hurled One option is to max out your McDonald’s com- racist, sexist insults at them mitment to diver- 2019 individual retirement ac- including referring to the count or Roth IRA. If you have sity was so widely employees at “n__gers” and known and pro- already maxed it out get a head “angry Black women.” start on your 2020 contributions. moted that it was Adding further injury to regularly named Due to COVID-19 the deadline the insults, the women also for making contributions to your among the Fortune claimed when they spoke up 500 top corpora- 2019 IRA has been extended to about such treatment, they July 15, 2020 the same date your tions for diversity were demoted and the per- and inclusion and income tax returns are due. petrators were promoted. Another way to have your stim- DOMINECA NEAL, VICKI GUSTER-HINES other companies The accusations have would benchmark ulus check work for you is to pay rocked the fast food indus- down your debt to better position shockingly being promoted rather than against them. try, especially since McDonald’s has disciplined following a complaint filed That reputation, however, is now yourself financially to purchase long projected itself as a leader in di- property. This could be an excel- against him for such racially abusive threatened by the lawsuit scheduled to versity initiatives and as an aggres- language. be heard in the Northern District Court lent way to pay off small existing sive recruiter and developer of African debts that report to the credit bu- In an exclusive interview with the of Illinois this month, July, or early Au- American talent and entrepreneurs. Michigan Chronicle, Neal, a native gust. Besides Easterbrook, who was let But Domineca Neal and Vicki Guster- SEE INVEST B2 of Detroit, said the harassment be- Hines, former vice presidents of the gan shortly after the new CEO, Brit- SEE MCDONALD’S B2 Multiple streams of income is a necessity—not a luxury! I grew up in a single-parent, fixed-in- to make ends meet. That was before the three different financial related services student loan forbearances. Many car and come household. Most of the people who Pandemic. That’s 8 out of every 10 people and was becoming more and more known credit card companies are offering simi- lived in my neighborhood also came from you know, regardless of how much mon- as a financial advisor, from an income lar work-out plans. All of these work-out single-parent, fixed-income households. I ey they make. The typical household is generation standpoint, I only focused on plans will end soon, if not extended. thought it was normal. First day of ev- broke shortly after payday, struggling to mortgages. Income generated from the What we’re experiencing today as a ery month was like a holiday in our com- the next payday only to be broke shortly other services was gravy. Tax Prepara- country eerily reminds me of my child- munity. The entire street who typically after payday in perpetuity. The struggle tion was a seasonal business. I was mak- hood upbringing. How do you combat liv- sleeps in daily, wakes up early in the is real! ing 10-20 times more per transaction ing paycheck to paycheck or combat being morning on that day waiting for the mail- I recall reading a marketing book years doing mortgages than I was preparing without income should you be laid off? man. This is before direct deposit became ago. In this book, I took away a couple of financial plans and preparing taxes. And According to Forbes Magazine, “there are a thing. things: The author said that his goal was it took less time to structure a mortgage no downsides to a side hustle. There are First couple of days of the month, ev- every time the mailman delivered mail to deal than it did to prepare tax returns only benefits to building more than one erybody is doing the “happy dance.” Bills his home, he wanted and financial plans. But source of income. A side hustle is the new are paid, the refrigerator is full, and we the mail to include a once the bottom fell-out Job Security. got an opportunity to do some fun stuff. check made out to him. of the mortgage mar- I agree! Solution is Multiple Streams of By the fifth of the month, money is all Stark contrast to my ket in 1998, it impacted Income! Not only does income from mul- spent—leaving “too much month left at childhood life. We got 70-80 percent of gross tiple sources provide a needed additional the end of the money”. We struggled to a check delivered once revenue—eventually source of income to your household, it can get ahead for the rest of the month. The a month. Stark con- forcing me back to Cor- serve as a crutch or a safety net in the cycle repeated itself month after month trast to everyday peo- porate America. event income from a primary source is re- after month in perpetuity. The struggle ple. We can count on Due to the Coronavi- duced or eliminated entirely. was real! bills being included in rus, upwards of 40 mil- We’re taught in investing that you need As I was growing up, I had no clue what the mail daily but not lion people have been to diversify your portfolio in order to miti- I wanted to be when I grew up. Today, I’m checks. His goal became my goal. I was either furloughed or laid-off. Big, medi- gate risk. It’s not wise to put all your eggs in my mid-40s and I’m still trying to fig- trying to get a check delivered every day. um, and small companies are all fighting in one basket. If that makes sense when ure that out (LOL). But then and now, My best attempt at that goal was 7 days during this time to keep their doors open. it comes to investing, wouldn’t the same I knew what I didn’t want. I didn’t want in a row, check in the mail. Talking about We work hard for our respective compa- hold true when it comes to our income – to be that person who waited an entire a “happy dance”. Imagine me twerking nies and try to add value and prove our- our most powerful wealth building tool? month for a check that lasted all of 5 days (LOL). Secondly, the author said, I can’t selves valuable. Despite how valuable we Why do most of us rely on our singular —if that. Then struggle to get by the rest tell you with confidence one way to make think we are, what’s been made glaringly job as our one and only income source? of the month. Miss me with that non- $100,000. But I can tell you with confi- obvious during this time is that on the Chances are your favorite celebrity has sense! That lifestyle I lived for the first dence, five ways to make $20,000. The balance sheet of our respective employer, multiple streams of income. Think about 19-years of my life inspired me to desire key is to be doing all 5. This too became employees are categorized as an expense. that for a second. Someone who earns and aspire for more. my goal. I went from offering solely In fact, employees are the largest expense 100 times the average person’s annual I’ve come to learn as an adult and as mortgage related services to also offering employers pay. To stay afloat companies income with their main job, has income a Financial Advisor that working a job tax preparation and financial planning had to let many people go. Millions of peo- coming in from multiple sources. in and of itself doesn’t absolve you of services within my company. ple are out of work. Gratefully, the federal In addition to your primary job, level up, my childhood experience of “too much I was exposed during the economic cri- government gave unemployment a $600 take on additional income sources! month left at the end of the money”. 78 sis back in 1998. But thinking back, it weekly raise. That’s subject to sunset last (Money Coach Damon Carr, can be reached at percent of Americans are living paycheck prepared me to better weather the storm week of July 2020. In addition, federal 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damon- to paycheck, hand to mouth, struggling of this pandemic. Although I was offering government mandated mortgage and moneycoach.com.) B2 JULY 8-14, 2020 BUSINESS NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER To invest or Former McDonald’s execs strike not to invest INVEST FROM B1 back in race discrimination lawsuit reau. MCDONALD’S FROM B1 Council and it subsequently became According to experts, “Reduc- from the Michigan Chronicle by publi- dormant. The Council provided career ing your debt-to-income ration go last year after it was revealed he was cation deadline. development and a talent pipeline for will have a larger impact on your involved in an affair with a colleague, However, in a statement to the media African American employees. And soon ability to buy a home than simply in violation of company policy, also in January, issued at the filing of the the demotions started with African adding the same amount of cash to named in the suit are the current CEO, suit, McDonald’s said it disagreed with Americans being targeted for elimina- your down payment. Chris Kempczinski, and Charles Strong, the characterization of the company’s tion such as herself and Guster-Hines, Your credit score determines your the chief field officer. behavior. It said 45 percent of its cor- the suit alleges, leaving no African interest rate when purchasing a At its bare essence, the women allege porate officers and all of its field vice Americans at Kempczinski’s leadership home. The higher your credit score in the suit the world’s largest fast food presidents are people of color. table during his tenure as president of the lower your interest rate which restaurant chain has “declared war “At McDonald’s, our actions are rooted McDonald’s USA to advocate on behalf can make a huge difference when against the African American commu- in our belief that a diverse, vibrant, in- of Black employees, franchise operators buying a property. nity.” clusive, and respectful company makes or customers. The suit claims the num- If your ultimate goal is to buy She noted her observation is based us stronger,” the company said. “While ber of African American executives in property, it is imperative to re- on its new business plan and corporate we disagree with characterizations in the top ranks of McDonald’s operations member that your credit score is leadership’s attitudes toward African the complaint, we are currently review- fell to seven in 2019 from 42 in 2014, everything when you are buying a American employees and owner-opera- ing it and will respond to the complaint the year before the new regime came on home which is why family finance tors who had the majority of restaurants accordingly.” board. experts recommend using a small in African American consumer markets Carmen D. Caruso and Linda C. Chat- The suit also alleges: portion of your stimulus check on a and would be impacted, more so than man, the Chicago-based trial lawyers • Before Easterbrook and Kempczins- credit building loan. others. “And that action coincided with representing Neal and Guster-Hines, ki’s arrival, African American consum- Another option is to add your said the behavior by McDonald’s ex- stimulus check to a home savings ecutives constituted account. Recognizing that your some of the most egre- stimulus check is not enough to gious acts of racial cover a down payment, but it can discrimination they be put directly into a home sav- have ever been con- ings that could go towards a list of fronted with in their homeowner expenses. careers. Lastly, if you could afford it, do- “Under the guise nate your stimulus check. Several of reorganizing the industries with hourly workers, way they manage the nail technicians, restaurant work- franchise system, the ers, hairdressers, etc. had their restaurant system main source of incomes disappear across the country, in the blink of an eye, but their they basically deci- financial obligations did not and mated the ranks of their stimulus checks will not even the African American scratch the surface of what they leadership and em- owe. ployees,” Caruso said. Food banks and other charities “That to me is one are also in need now, more than of the most glaring ever and the demand for their acts of intentional dis- services are increasing but their crimination that we budgets were set before the pan- saw in the case. And demic started. If your job is still we lay those numbers in tack and your emergency fund out in greater detail is in good shape, you may want to in the complaint itself. consider donating a portion of your But that was very, stimulus check. very, serious discrimi- Remember, however you choose nation in employment, to spend your stimulus check make and it’s over and above sure your basic needs are met first a lot of other things and anything thereafter make that came before and thoughtful and strategic decisions. other things that have ers generated 20 percent of all revenue “You must gain control over your a significant reduction in the number of come after, but that’s kind of a center- for McDonald’s U.S. stores. money or the lack of it will forever African American owner-operators.” piece of the discrimination against the • Easterbrook and Kempczinski caused control you.” When Neal and other executives executive employees, including Domin- a decrease in advertising to attract Af- —Dave Ramsey brought these concerns to the atten- eca and Vicki.” rican American patronage. The constant Chatman agreed and said that they (Anthony O. Kellum is President of Kel- tion of leadership, they began to retal- cutting in the funding of programs for are also arguing that McDonald’s will lum Mortgage, LLC.) iate against them. They defunded the company’s African American Diversity building African American leadership try to argue that their promotion and resulted in the system-wide purchases demotion policies are neutral because by African Americans to decline by 6 they are based on data, not race. The percent. racially hostile work environment had • Nearly one out of three African a particularly destructive impact upon American franchisees left the McDon- Black employees, including Neal and ald’s system since Easterbrook arrived Guster-Hines. which was disproportionate to the loss “The crux of it is that, under Easter- of non-African American franchisees. brook and now Kempczinski, McDon- But among Neal’s and Guster- ald’s is not interested in, or focused Hines’ most revealing claims was upon, Black customers, Black franchi- the racist, sexist taunts they had to sees or Black executives, as evidenced endure from the McDonald’s execu- by how they decimated their ranks at tives. The suit alleges that in 2005, the corporate level,” she said. Marty Ranft, a White vice president “Domineca and Vicki were forced to and general manager of the McDon- witness McDonald’s blatantly de-em- ald’s Ohio Region, told Guster-Hines, phasize Black people and the effect “You are a n__ger like all the rest— upon them was terrible,” Chatman said. you just believe you are better ‘cause “I mean, how are they supposed to work you are a smart one.” in an environment that is openly hostile She further alleges she reported to people who look like them?” Ranft to her supervisors and empha- Neal said when Kempczinski was told sized that she would not tolerate be- about concerns that there weren’t any ing called a n__ger within McDonald’s Blacks on his U.S. president executive or anywhere else. She said there was team, he said, “the numbers don’t mat- no response to her complaint from the ter.” corporation and Ranft was eventually “But, the numbers do matter,” Chat- promoted to Vice President of Devel- man said. opment for the entire U.S. Caruso said the bottom line is that The suit also alleges in 2017 that they are alleging their clients were vic- Strong, who supervised Neal and tims of intentional discrimination and Guster-Hines, and at the time was it came from the very top of the McDon- responsible for 50 percent of the ald’s organization in the form of Steve U.S. business and about 14,000 restau- Easterbrook and Christopher Kemp- rants, instructed Neal not to consult czinski. with or take the advice of two African “It was not an accident that all this American women, Bridgette Hernan- happened to Domineca and Vicki, and dez and Barbara Calloway, who had other African Americans in the compa- been promoted over Strong’s opposi- ny,” he said. tion. She alleged he stated, “We don’t Neal, reflecting on her time at McDon- need any of that Black woman’s atti- ald’s, recalled how happy she was to tude. They are too angry and aggres- join the organization in 2011 precisely sive.” because of its reputation for embracing The next year in March 2018, the African American community. Strong allegedly told Guster- “And we embraced them, and that was Hines that five African Ameri- shown through the loyalty to the brand, can women, Chioke Elmore, Regi- the representation of African American na Johnson, Hernandez, Calloway talent at all levels throughout the orga- and Neal, were “angry Black wom- nization and the opportunities to create en” that “always seemed to be mad wealth for the African American own- about something.” He then alleged- er-operators, which was also very in- ly asked Guster-Hines to explain the spiring and a representation of their di- source of their anger. versity and inclusion values,” she said. The five women constituted 40 per- Now, after leaving the corporation in cent of female African American March, Neal still finds the swift turn- vice presidents as of March 2018, about in the company’s attitude and and were three out of the five vice values—after nearly 50 years of prog- presidents reporting to Strong when ress—disconcerting. She said the whole he allegedly made the statements. “angry Black woman” incident felt as “So that was shocking that he was if she was living in an episode of “Mad so openly discussing that with var- Men.” ious stakeholders that we were an- She is left to wonder how sincere the gry Black women,” Neal said. corporation was about diversity and But what she, Guster-Hines, and inclusion in the first place. She noted others found even more jarring and things would never have had gotten out demoralizing was after they shared of hand if the Board of Directors had Strong’s racist, sexist, and demeaning come down on the executives. But they remarks to his superiors, he, too, was didn’t. promoted and they were demoted. “It was very disheartening, heart- “In shocking ways difficult to over- breaking, and shocking because I think state, McDonald’s, under Easterbrook that we’re at a stage in society, where and Kempczinski, declared a war we know that’s language that is racial against the African American commu- in nature and stereotypical and used nity,” the lawsuit alleges. in a manner to quiet African Ameri- Neither the McDonald’s Corpora- can women from being able to comfort- tion Media Relations Department nor ably bring their authentic selves to the the lawyer representing them, Nigel workplace,” Neal said. F. Telman of Chicago, returned calls NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER OPINION JULY 8-14, 2020 B3 The measure of a president (TriceEdneyWire.com)—As a student ‘reinvent’ his belief that COVID-19 will of philosophical principles, I am aware Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. miraculously “disappear.” Failing to of the school of thought that does not set an example of behavior endorsed believe in the existence of “NORMAL” by medical science, he presents to the as a universal state of being. A testa- public without masking and ridicules ment to that idea is the fact that each those who do. Simultaneously, he lies of us has a unique set of experiences Commentary to the American public, stating that that shape differences in our defini- “more testing creates more infections” tions of normal. However, living among and that infections are on the decline. others with as little conflict as possible Meanwhile, the US, whose popula- requires a standard of conduct with dishonorable, failed or otherwise) set tion is roughly 5 percent of the world’s written and unwritten principles to the tone for their time in office and population, has suffered 25 percent of which most consent. We label those beyond. It is expected and hoped that COVID-19 worldwide fatalities. who do not consent or who behave anyone willing to run for the office has #45’s most recent and most egregious outside of the parameters which we a character rooted in the foundations act is his ongoing and public support of consider in order as abnormal or, more of honesty, selflessness, character and Vladimir Putin while US intelligence commonly as criminals. compassion. Until now, we have gen- sources have disclosed that Russia A RESPONSIBLE HUMAN’s erally rejected an abject liar, a person paid bounties to the Taliban for the comportment reflects character, honor devoid of compassion, and one motivat- lives of US servicemembers serving in and is respectful of the personage and ed only by self-interest. Somehow, the combat in Afghanistan. According to Guest Editorial rights of those with whom she/he must current officeholder slinked in the door. sources, Taliban combatants were paid interact. Without those character traits I know many sycophants of #45 will $100,000 per each American life. it’s unlikely that any person could vehemently reject my assessment of Once again, #45 does not believe US rightly ascend to a position of LEAD- their ‘boy,’ but facts support my posi- Intelligence sources and labels reports COVID-19 denial ERSHIP. I define a LEADER as one tion. These facts are no longer based of bounties as “fake news” and “a hoax.” who assesses the impact of circum- in “he said, she said” dialogues. His He has laid these American lives on stances upon a group and, through current incompetence has now resulted the altar of his reelection. is dangerous, deadly the powers of discernment, persuasion in the loss of American lives. Lives lost These are just two of the myriad and/or inspiration, navigates and that he is supposed to value above all offenses of character and leadership he guides that group to/through a course others. Lives for which he is expected presents to us. After assessing the car- of action that results in the greatest subordinate personal interests and nage in the wake of his disastrous term Top U.S. COVID-19 adviser Dr. Antho- benefit for that group. which he is expected to defend. Lives of office, is there anything he can offer ny Fauci blames the country’s pandem- Not all Presidents of the United which depend on his leadership. Lives us in a second term that will justify the States have conducted themselves as which he has abandoned at the altar of butchery of his first term? The choice is ic response on American “anti-science responsible humans. An even smaller “What’s Good for Trump.” yours! It can only be made with your bias.” number have demonstrated qualities Failing the creation of a comprehen- vote!! This bias is “inconceivable,” because of leadership that have been predicat- sive or cogent national strategy to (Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of ed on the “common good.” The implica- combat COVID-19, #45 has begun to the National Congress of Black Women.) “science is truth,” said Fauci, director tions of their leadership (enlightened, of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, while criticizing those discounting the importance of masks and social distancing. Fauci is right that many Americans D.C. statehood is a racial have an “anti-science bias” in their response to the coronavirus. The bias is similar to the one against climate justice issue for the entire nation change. But just as with the climate (TriceEdneyWire.com)—The residents than either Wyoming or change debate, skepticism is also ex- District of Columbia is the one Ben Jealous Vermont, and nearly as many as ploited by politicians. spot where there is no govern- Alaska. D.C. residents contribute ment for the people, of the people more federal taxes than those of President Donald Trump and many Re- and by the people,” the great abo- 22 states, and more per capita publican state leaders continue to send litionist and D.C. resident Fred- than any state. There is no prin- signals through their words and actions erick Douglass once wrote. More Commentary cipled justification for continuing than a century later, the 705,000 to treat the people of Washington, that the coronavirus is no longer a se- residents of Washington, D.C.— D.C. as second-class citizens. rious threat and that Americans can re- nearly half of them Black—are Many of the systemic problems turn to business as usual including not still denied the full citizenship caseload was higher than 19 Americans are grappling with do that every American deserves. states’. not have simple solutions. But wearing a mask in public or practicing They have no vote in a Congress this one does. All it will take is for social distancing. This denial of COVID-19 relief that can override decisions by funds is just the latest harm the Senate to pass and the pres- As states and cities gradually reopen it voters and elected officials about imposed on D.C. by members of ident to sign the legislation that is important to remember that the coro- local priorities and tax dollars. Congress who have been happy to just passed in Congress. Rectifying this injustice should be What is standing in the way is navirus is continuing to kill Americans in treat D.C. as their fiefdom, from a top priority for every American interfering with public health the same ruthless Republican significant numbers. who is committed to advancing officials’ response to the AIDS desire to maintain power that The number of new coronavirus cas- racial justice and voting rights. crisis to blocking implementation brings us racial and political ger- es per day in the U.S. is hovering close Senate Majority Leader Mitch of a voter-approved referendum to rymandering and voter suppres- McConnell has said—wrongly and legalize the use of marijuana. sion. The illegitimate entrench- to the peak reached in late April during ridiculously—that righting this There is no doubt that both ment of power in the hands of some of the deadliest days of the crisis. wrong would be “full-bore social- historically and today, opposition right-wing politicians undermines ism.” On Friday, the House of to extending democracy to our na- democracy. It harms Americans Experts say expanded testing proba- Representatives rebuked McCon- everywhere, not just in D.C., by bly accounts for some of the increase. tion’s capital has been grounded nell’s farcical reasoning by voting in racism and the desire to main- making it harder to adopt policies But other measures indicate the virus to make the District of Columbia tain racist structures of power. that protect American lives and is making a comeback. Daily deaths, the 51st state. And there is no doubt that deny- communities. That is why D.C. The House vote was a historic statehood must be part of the hospitalizations and the percentage of ing citizens of the nation’s capital step toward resolving this glaring representation in the national agenda of the broader movement tests that are coming back positive for injustice. Achieving the final re- legislature—something no other to advance racial equity and a the virus have also been rising over the sult will require removing McCon- free country does—undermines healthy democracy. past few weeks in parts of the country. nell and President Donald Trump our self-image as leaders of the For now, D.C. statehood legis- from their current posts. The need free world and our credibility as a lation is sure to join the growing Texas has pursued one of the most to do so could not be more urgent. beacon of democracy on the inter- pile of common-good measures aggressive reopening schedules in the Denying D.C. statehood has dev- national stage. passed by the House that die in astating real-world consequences. Civil rights leaders and other Mitch McConnell’s graveyard. nation. But disturbing new signs have The coronavirus pandemic is hav- That should intensify our resolve forced Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to back- advocates for statehood, including an especially deadly impact ing Jesse Jackson and Julian to mobilize voters and overcome track. Abbott announced last Thursday on Black and Latino people in Bond, D.C.’s nonvoting delegate to every undemocratic tactic Repub- that he will pause any further reopen- D.C. and elsewhere. Yet Senate Congress Eleanor Holmes Norton, licans will deploy to suppress the Republicans refused to treat D.C. vote between now and November. ing of Texas, which is seeing a surge of and the activists at DC Vote, have the same way it treated the states been making the case for state- (Ben Jealous is president of People COVID-19 cases. in relief legislation. That cost hood for decades. For the American Way and People For The U.S. government’s top public District residents $750 million in The case is clear. D.C. has more the American Way Foundation; former health leaders last week disputed as- relief funds, even though D.C.’s president of the NAACP.) sertions by Trump that the coronavirus pandemic is under control and the U.S. is excelling in testing for the virus. Having political power without Trump has said the pandemic is “fad- ing,” but it is actually surging in many states, experts said, and the need to economic power is impossible expand testing is “critical.” Fauci and other public health authori- (TriceEdneyWire.com)—We lion dollars is mainly used to cre- ties have made it clear that the rise in Black folks need to understand A. Peter Bailey ate wealth for everyone for Black that political power is impossi- people, because we spend the vast cases recently is not just from increased ble without economic power. We majority of it at their businesses. testing, as Trump and Vice President may have some degree of political Politics has not and will not solve Mike Pence repeatedly suggest, but influence, but never power with- these issues. We must solve them also from states relaxing their precau- out securing economic power. No Commentary ourselves, by ‘the work of our own one understood this better than hands,’ as Martin Delany told tions. Professor James Clingman. The us.” For those who don’t know, (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune) following excerpt from his must- Martin Delany was an Afro-cen- read book will explain my posi- tric contemporary of Frederick tion Black Dollars: How to Teach scenario between the two disci- Douglass. We as a people must Your Dollars How to Make More plines; certainly our actions in insist that our leadership on any Sense: “Herein is my strongest response to them must be ‘both level display their knowledge of effort yet to elucidate the nuanc- and.’ We must understand the Professor Clingman’s views on es and the obvious connections priority however; which one economic power. between politics and economics. comes first, which one depends on Finally he noted the term, Moreover, as others before me the other, and which of the two “Black dollars matter! is in re- Founded 1910 have done, my task is to do ev- can achieve real power faster. We sponse to our efforts to tell the erything I can to convince Black have struggled with politics for world that ‘Black lives matter!’ Rod Doss folks in particular that our inter- 50 years now, since we abandoned To most, that’s a very obvious re- ests must be returned to econom- our economic base of business ality and there should be no need Editor & Publisher ics over politics as it was when ownership and mutual support. to impress that reality on any we owned economic enclaves Five decades should be enough to human being, except of course on Stephan A. Broadus across this nation. I know that’s convince us that if and until we those who would take Black lives Assistant to the Publisher hard for some of us, because we have a strong economic base, a unjustifiably. Thus, our protests have been seeking political power position of struggle from which to against police killing Black men since 1965. Irrespective of our negotiate our grievances with pol- continue. In order to imple- Allison Palm Rob Taylor Jr. Jeff Marion feelings about our favorite politi- iticians, we will never have real ment a Black dollars strategy in Office Manager Managing Editor Circulation Consultant cians, the status quo will remain political power. I hope this book response to the killings, we must the same until we demonstrate convinces you of that hard cold understand the relationship be- our willingness to use our dollars fact and will leave you to work tween public policy development John. H. Sengstacke to effect public policy. Every- on obtaining real economic power and economic empowerment. thing else is rhetoric.” collectively and individually as Once we get a handle on that, I Editor & Publisher Emeritus quickly as you can....Our aggre- (1912-1997) Furthermore he continued “I contend we will be well on our am not advocating an ‘either or’ gate annual income of $1.2 tril- way to winning this battle.” New Pittsburgh Courier

B4 CLASSIFIEDJULY 8-14, 2020 www.newpittsburghcourier.com

JOB OPPORTUNITIES LEGAL ADVERTISING Help Wanted Legal Notices SONNY BOY BOROUGH MANAGER POSITION Job Description: Wilkinsburg, a dynamic and historic first-ring suburb of Pittsburgh of 16,000 residents with both major highway and busway access, seeks an experience full-time manager to help direct out continued 3 6 1 forward momentum. Reporting to a council of nine, the Manager is re- Estate of RUTH S. GABELHART a/k/a RUTH ELIZABETH GABELHART, Deceased of sponsible for the day-to-day opera- Bridgeville, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania tions of the Borough including over- No.02-20-02781, Scott W. Gabelhart, 9 2 8 sight of a $15 million dollar annual Executor, 1064 Elizabeth Drive, McMurray, PA budget and supervision of depart- 15317 or to Robin L. Rarie, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC, 401 Washington Avenue ment heads. The ideal candidate Bridgeville, PA 15017 will be creative and accountable, 7 4 5 while championing strong communi- Estate of SZLEC PATRICIA ANN a/k/a cation and team building. A proven SZELC PATRICIA A, Deceased of Shaler track record in community and eco- Township No.02556 of 2020, Brian J. Szelc, Executor, 246 Corey Dr., Gibsonia, PA 15044 nomic development, grant writing or to Micheal J. Saldamarco, ESQ., Attys; and financial management is highly STE. 100, 908 Perry Hwy. Pittsburgh, PA LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING 15229 desired. Professional management Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals style covering 75 employees and Estate of Mr.John Earl Pawuk, Deceased of background leading a municipality 923 Vance Avenue, Coaropolis,PA 15108. Es- in a unionized environment. Salary: tate No.02-20-02840, Ms. Carol Pawuk and Ms. WASHINGTON COUNTY LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Shall be commensurate with experi- Karen DeChellis, Co-Administratrixes, c/o Max C. Feldman, Esquire and the Law Office of Max HOUSING AUTHORITY Port Authority of Allegheny County ence with an attractive benefit pack- C. Feldman, 1322 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA The Washington County Housing REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL age. Minimum Education Qualifica- 15108 Authority will receive separate, and NO. 20-04 tions: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor sealed bids for the following prime Port Authority of Allegheny County (Authority) is requesting proposals for the of Science; Master in Public Policy ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION contract bid with the Authority: performance of the following service (“Contract Services”): JustLaws PLLC, Steve Masters, Esquire. or Master of Business Administra- 621, West Mount Airy Avenue, Philadelphia, CRUMRINE TOWER ANNEX GENERAL MARKETING tion preferred. Experience: The PA 19119 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS SERVICES qualified candidate shall have a on June 16, 2020, Articles of Incorporation CRUMRINE TOWER 100 SOUTH The work under the proposed Agreements consists of general marketing services minimum of five years experience in were filed with the Pennsylvania Department of State for 1Hood Power, a corporation or- FRANKLIN STREET with a pool of two firms for each category listed which shall include, but not be governmental management and at ganized under the Pennsylvania Nonprofit WASHINGTON, PA 15301 limited to: 1) Advertising, Marketing and Promotion; 2) Public Relations; 3) least three years with direct staff su- Corporation Law of 1988 for the purpose of WCHA 2020-G1 Contract; A/E Community Outreach (Street Teams)/Community Engagement; 4) Market pervision. Prospective candidates building political power, holding politicians COMMISSION # 317/2 Research; 5) Direct Mail Distribution; and 6) Video Production. While it is currently accountable, and developing effective political shall apply a resume with a cover leadership through electoral organizing, issue A certified check or bank draft pay- the Authority’s intention to enter into agreements with a pool of two firms for each letter, three references, two writ- advocacy, and civic education efforts. The able to the Washington County category, this number may be adjusted up or down, at Authority’s sole discretion, ing samples including on funding name of the corporation is 1Hood Power Housing Authority, a US Govern- based upon the number of proposals received and Authority’s evaluation of same proposal in an enveloped marked ment Bond or satisfactory Bid in relation to its general marketing services needs in each of the categories. “Borough Manager Position” LEGAL ADVERTISING Bond executed by the Bidder and The required services will be issued on a work order basis as they are approved to and mail to Borough of Wilkinsburg, Bids/Proposals acceptable sureties in the amount proceed by Authority. The Agreement will be for a four-year period with the option 605 Ross Avenue, Wilkinsburg, PA equal to ten percent (10%) of the to extend the term of the Agreement up to one additional years at the sole 15221. Application period closes at bid shall be submitted with each bid. discretion of Authority. 4PM on August 17, 2020. EOE/AA WASHINGTON COUNTY Bids will be received no later A copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) will be available on or after June 30, HOUSING AUTHORITY than 1:30 PM DST, THURSDAY, 2020, and can be obtained by registering at the Port Authority ebusiness website: LOCAL COLLEGE HIRING The Washington County Housing JULY 16, 2020 at the Washington http://ebusiness.portauthority.org and following the directions listed on the ACADEMIC CHAIR-SCHOOL OF Authority will receive separate, and County Housing Authority, 100 Crum- website. Please note that Proposers must register under the ebusiness category DESIGN, V.P. STUDENT AFFAIRS/ sealed bids for the following prime rine Tower, Franklin Street, Washing- of PSMAP – Pro Market/Add/Public Relation for this RFP. Proposers may also ENROLLMENT MGT., contract bid with the Authority: ton, PA 15301 at which time the bids register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by Port Authority. If you MAINTENANCE TECH/HVAC/ NEW FLOORING FOR NATHAN will be publicly opened and read aloud. have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Fred Buckner (412) ELECTRICAL & HOUSEKEEPING GOFF APARTMENTS Bids will be held by the Housing Au- 566-5467. POSITIONS 1 MIDDLELAND AVENUE thority for a period not to exceed sixty An Information Meeting for interested parties will be held at 9:30a.m, prevailing Pittsburgh Technical College is EXTENSION (60) days prior to the contract award. time, July 21, 2020 via conference call to answer any questions regarding this seeking qualified applicants for the NORTH CHARLEROI, PA 15022 A Non-Mandatory Pre-bid Meet- RFP. The Authority call-in number has been set up and is as follows: following positions: WCHA 2020-G9 CONTRACT; ing will be held at 9:00 AM DST, • Toll Free Number (Canada/US): 1-800-974-5902 • Academic Chair – School of Design A/E PROJECT # 2170 FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2020 onsite at • Local Dial-In Number: (416) 874-8100 Master’s degree in related discipline A certified check or bank draft pay- Crumrine Tower,100 South Franklin • Conference ID #: 4051776 • V.P. Student Affairs and able to the Washington County Street, Washington, Pa 15301 Electronic proposals must be both received, and time stamped by a representative Enrollment Management Housing Authority, a US Govern- Plans, specifications, and con- of the Purchasing and Materials Management Department through Authority’s Master’s degree required, doctorate ment Bond or satisfactory Bid Bond tract documents may be exam- Ebusiness website at or before 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, July 30, 2020, at preferred executed by the Bidder and accept- ined at these locations: http://ebusiness.portauthority.org. Proposals received or time stamped by a • Maintenance Tech – HVAC/ able sureties in the amount equal to Plans and Specifications may be Purchasing and Materials Management Department representative through Electrical – Full-time ten percent (10%) of the bid shall be viewed at the following Plan Rooms: Authority’s Ebusiness website after the advertised time for the submission of Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – submitted with each bid. Cleveland Builders Exchange, proposals shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award. Each 5:00 p.m. (8 hour work shift) Bids will be received no later than Pittsburgh Builders Exchange,Con- Proposer shall be solely responsible for assuring that its proposal is timely received Must be Universal EPA Certified 11:00 AM DST, Thursday, July struction Journal, and Ohio Valley and time stamped in accordance with the requirements herein. • Housekeeper – Full-time - Day 16, 2020at the Washington County Construction Employers Council. This Contract Services may be funded, in part, by, and subject to certain Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – Housing Authority, 100 South Franklin A CD containing PDF’s of all bid doc- requirements of, the County of Allegheny and the Commonwealth of 5:00 p.m. (8 hour work shift) Street,Crumrine Tower, Washington, uments may be obtained through Pennsylvania, and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the U.S. 3 years prior office/institutional PA 15301 at which time the bids will be the office of the Architect, Shaef- Department of Transportation (DOT). The proposal process and the performance cleaning experience publicly opened and read aloud. Bids fer & Madama, Inc., 57 Fourteenth of the requested services will be in accordance with guidelines and regulations of LEGAL ADVERTISING • Housekeeper – Part-time – Evening will be held by the Housing Authority Street, Wheeling, WV 26003 upon the FTA “Third Party Contracting Guidelines”, FTA Circular 4220.1F, for a period not to exceed sixty (60) receipt of a $25.00 non-refundable as amended, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Bids/Proposals Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. (4 hour work shift) days prior to the contract award. payment and valid email address. Port Authority of Allegheny County, in compliance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, as Prior office/institutional cleaning A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Meet- For more information, contact amended, implements positive affirmative action procedures to ensure that all experience preferred ing will be held at 11:00 AM DST, [email protected]. Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (“DBEs”) have the maximum opportunity Must pass criminal background check. Friday, July 10, 2020 at the Nathan Submit all required documents in a to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts financed, in whole Immediate opening at our North Goff Apartments, 1 Middleland Ave- sealed envelope clearly marked: or in part, with federal funds, if any, provided under or for the proposed Agreement. Fayette campus near Robinson Towne nue Extension, North Charleroi, PA WCHA Crumrine Tower: Crumrine In this regard, all recipients or contractors shall take all necessary and reasonable Center. Apply to www.ptcollege.edu 15022. Tower Annex Exterior Renovations steps in accordance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, to ensure that DBEs have the (Employment with PTC) or Plans, specifications and con- The work to be performed under maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts for, www.workforptcollege.com . tract documents may be exam- this contract is a Section 3 Project the Contract Services. EOE M/F ined at the following location: under Provisions of the Housing & Port Authority of Allegheny County, in compliance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, as may Bid Documents are being distrib- Urban Development Act of 1968, as be amended, also requires that certified Diverse Businesses, “DBs”( ) have the MAINTENANCE AND COMMUNITY uted, with twenty-four hour prior amended, and must, to the greatest maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontract for, MANAGER POSITIONS notice of pick-up, by F. L. Haus extent feasible, provide opportuni- the Contract Services. In this regard, all Proposers, and the Contractor, shall make TREK Development is hiring! Open Company, 921 Ridge Avenue, Pitts- ties for training and employment for good faith efforts, in accordance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, to ensure that DBs have positions include, Maintenance and burgh, PA 15212, by phone (412) lower-income residents of the proj- the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts Community Manager positions. 231-7700 or fax (412) 231-7709. ect and contracts for work in con- for, the Contract Services. Send resumes to All prime bidders are REQUIRED to nection with the project be award- Further, proposers and the Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, [email protected] buy the full set of plans and speci- ed to business concerns which are color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sex, sexual origin, gender fications. Contact F. L. Haus Com- located in, or owned by, Washing- identity or status as a parent in the award and performance of contracts or pany for cost of plans and specifi- ton County residents. Particular at- subcontracts for these Contract Services. FULL-TIME VISITOR SERVICES cations. Free examination of said tention is directed to requirements Port Authority of Allegheny County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. MANAGER. documents is available at the office of Executive Order 11246,11625 The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium of Canzian/Johnston & Associates and 12138, as well as Section 3 is seeking a full-time visitor services LLC and Pennsylvania Builders requirements, as set forth in the manager. Please send resumes Exchange. Submit all required doc- Specifications. with salary requirement to uments in a sealed envelope clearly The Authority reserves the right to [email protected]. The marked: reject any or all bids for any rea- job description will be posted in a Nathan Goff Apartments: New son(s) what so ever and to waive reply. EOE Flooring for Nathan Goff Apart- informalities in the bidding. ments. STEPHEN K. HALL The work to be performed under this EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CODE DIRECTOR POSITION contract is a Section 3 Project under The Borough of Wilkinsburg is seeking provisions of the Housing & Urban De- a Director of Code Enforcement. This velopment Act of 1968, as amended, is an administrative position which in- and must, to the greatest extent feasi- cludes field work. Director supervises ble, provide opportunities for training five employees. A minimum of five and employment for lower-income America’s Best Weekly years’ experience in code enforcement residents of the project and contracts or building industry. Completion of a for work in connection with the proj- 315 East Carson Street, BS, BA or comparable industry cre- ect be awarded to business concerns COURIER dentials. Building Code Official certi- which are located in, or owned by, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 fication preferred. Knowledge of MS Washington County residents. Par- CLASSIFIEDS software or other industry platforms a ticular attention is directed to require- must. Must possess and maintain a ments of Executive Order 11246, GET RESULTS! Classiﬁeds valid PA Motor Vehicle License. Cover 11625 and 12138, as well as Section 412-481-8302 letter and resume with three (3) profes- 3 requirements, asset forth in the sional references to Acting Borough Specifications. Manager, 605 Ross Avenue, Wilkins- The Authority reserves the right to re- E-mail: [email protected] burg, PA 15221, or email (preferred) ject any or all bids for any reason(s) To place a [email protected] Applica- what so ever and to waive informalities tion period closes at 4 p.m. on August in the bidding. display ad 17, 2020. A position description is STEPHEN K. HALL Deadline/Closing/ Cancellation Schedule for copy, available on the Borough’s website at EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR in the www.wilkinsburgpa.gov .EEO/AA corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon New Pittsburgh preceding Wednesday publication Courier call 412-481-8302 America’s Best Weekly ext. 128 or 129 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 COURIER Classiﬁeds CLASSIFIEDS… 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 THE ONLY E-mail: [email protected] WAY TO GO! To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129 Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…THE ONLY WAY TO GO! NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS JULY 8-14, 2020 B5

LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals SONNY BOY HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR SEWER AND CATCH BASIN FIRE AND SECURITY ALARM MAINTENANCE AUTHORITY WIDE MONITORING AUTHORITY WIDE IFB #300-18-20 REBID IFB #300-17-20 REBID The Housing Authority of the City of The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request bids from qualified Firms or Individ- bids from qualified Firms or Individ- uals capable of providing the follow- uals capable of providing the following service(s): ing service(s): SEWER AND CATCH BASIN FIRE AND SECURITY ALARM MAINTENANCE AUTHORITY WIDE MONITORING AUTHORITY WIDE IFB #300-18-20 REBID IFB #300-17-20 REBID The documents will be available The documents will be available no later than June 29, 2020 and no later than June 29, 2020 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 10:30 A.M. on July 21, 2020. until 11:00 A.M. on July 21, 2020. The Housing Authority of the City The Housing Authority of the City LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING of Pittsburgh will only be accept- of Pittsburgh will only be accept- Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals ing physical bids dropped off in ing physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the bid person from 8:00 AM until the bid Support the opening time of 10:30 AM on July opening time of 11:00 AM on July HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE 21, 2020 in the lobby of 100 Ross 21, 2020 in the lobby of 100 Ross CITY OF PITTSBURGH CITY OF PITTSBURGH St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Bids St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Bids INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR may uploaded to the Authority’s may uploaded to the Authority’s DRIVERS TRAINING FOR PLUMBING REPAIR SERVICES online submission site, the link is online submission site, the link is RESIDENT EMPLOYMENT AUTHORITY WIDE REBID publication accessible via the HACP website accessible via the HACP website PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS IFB #300-02-20 REBID and within the IFB. Sealed bids and within the IFB. Sealed bids IFB #550-10-20 The Housing Authority of the City of may still be mailed via USPS at may still be mailed via USPS at The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request which time they will be Time and which time they will be Time and Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request bids from qualified Firms or Individ- Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street bids from qualified Firms or Individ- uals capable of providing the follow- that is 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, uals capable of providing the following service(s): PA 15219. PA 15219. ing service(s): PLUMBING REPAIR SERVICES Parties or individuals interested Parties or individuals interested in re- DRIVERS TRAINING FOR AUTHORITY WIDE REBID in responding may download a sponding may download a copy of the RESIDENT EMPLOYMENT IFB #300-02-20 REBID ALWAYS copy of the Solicitation from the Solicitation from the Business Oppor- PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS The documents will be available Business Opportunities page of tunities page of www.HACP.org. IFB #550-10-20 no later than June 29, 2020 and www.HACP.org. Questions or inquires should be di- The documents will be available signed, sealed bids will be accepted Questions or inquires should be rected to: no later than June 29, 2020 and until 10:00 A.M. on July 21, 2020. directed to: Mr. Kim Detrick signed, sealed bids will be accepted The Housing Authority of the City focused on Mr. Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of until 11:30 A.M. on July 21, 2020. of Pittsburgh will only be accept- Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh The Housing Authority of the City ing physical bids dropped off in Pittsburgh Procurement Department of Pittsburgh will only be accept- person from 8:00 AM until the bid Procurement Department 100 Ross Street ing physical bids dropped off in opening time of 10:00 AM on July 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 person from 8:00 AM until the 21, 2020 in the lobby of 100 Ross Pittsburgh’s 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 bid opening time of 11:30 AM on St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Bids Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 July 21, 2020 in the lobby of 100 may uploaded to the Authority’s 412-643-2832 A pre-bid meeting will be held via Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. online submission site, the link is A pre-bid meeting will be held via call in; on July 9, 2020 at 11:00 Sealed bids may uploaded to the accessible via the HACP website call in; on July 9, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. Please see call in information Authority’s online submission and within the IFB. Sealed Bids African A.M. Please see call in information below: site, the link is accessible via the may still be mailed via USPS at below: Join the audio conference by HACP website and within the IFB. which time they will be Time and Join the audio conference by phone: Sealed bids may still be mailed Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street phone: United States - Washington, DC via USPS at which time they will 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, United States - Washington, DC +1.202.602.1295 be Time and Date Stamped at 100 PA 15219. American +1.202.602.1295 Access Code 598-776-271# Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Parties or individuals interested in re- Access Code 598-776-271# The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, PA 15219. sponding may download a copy of the The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages cer- Parties or individuals interested in Solicitation from the Business Opportu- Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises responding may download a copy nities page of www.HACP.org. tified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to of the Solicitation from the Business Questions or inquiries should be di- community. and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. Opportunities page of www.HACP. rected to: respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their web- org. Mr. Kim Detrick HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, Questions or inquires should be di- Housing Authority of the City of site. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and rected to: Pittsburgh vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and down- Mr. Kim Detrick Procurement Department log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Housing Authority of the City of 100 Ross Street load IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Pittsburgh 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Subscribe to Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Procurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of 100 Ross Street 412-643-2832 Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 2nd Floor, Suite 200 A pre-bid meeting will be held via Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance Pittsburgh, PA 15219 call in; on July 9, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. the HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights 412-643-2832 Please see call in information be- with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, A pre-bid meeting will be held via low: laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the call in; on July 9, 2020 at 12:00 Join the audio conference by the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans P.M. Please see call in information phone: Courier Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Rela- below: United States - Washington, DC with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Rela- tions Act, etc. and does not discriminate Join the audio conference by +1.202.602.1295 tions Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these phone: Access Code 598-776-271# against any individuals protected by these statutes. United States - Washington, DC The Housing Authority of the City of today by statutes. +1.202.602.1295 Pittsburgh strongly encourages cer- Access Code 598-776-271# tified minority business enterprises The Housing Authority of the City of and women business enterprises to Pittsburgh strongly encourages cer- respond to this solicitation. calling tified minority business enterprises HACP’s has revised their web- and women business enterprises to site. As part of those revisions, respond to this solicitation. vendors must now register and HACP’s has revised their web- log-in, in order to view and down- 412-481-8302, site. As part of those revisions, load IFB/RFPs documentation. vendors must now register and Caster D. Binion, log-in, in order to view and down- Executive Director load IFB/RFPs documentation. Housing Authority of the City of ext. 140 Caster D. Binion, Pittsburgh America’s Executive Director HACP conducts business in accordance America’s Housing Authority of the City of with all federal, state, and local civil rights Best Weekly Pittsburgh laws, including but not limited to Title VII, Best Weekly HACP conducts business in accordance the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the with all federal, state, and local civil rights Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans 315 East Carson Street laws, including but not limited to Title VII, with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Rela- 315 East Carson Street the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the tions Act, etc. and does not discriminate Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans against any individuals protected by these with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Rela- statutes. To place a tions Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these Classifieds Classifieds statutes. display ad in 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 412-481-8302 the E-mail: Ext. 140 COURIER [email protected] COURIER CLASSIFIEDS… THE ONLY WAY TO GO! E-mail: CLASSIFIEDS New Deadline/Closing/ [email protected] Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, Pittsburgh and cancellations: Deadline/Closing/ Friday noon preceding Cancellation Courier Wednesday publication Schedule for copy, America’s Best Weekly corrections, and cancellations: 315 East Carson Street, call Friday noon Pittsburgh, PA 15219 preceding Wednesday 412-481-8302 publication Classifieds 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129 NEW E-mail: [email protected] PITTSBURGH Deadline/Closing/ Cancellation Schedule for copy, COURIER COURIER COURIER CLASSIFIEDS corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon CLASSIFIEDS… CLASSIFIEDS preceding Wednesday publication THE ONLY WAY TO GO! GET RESULTS! NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS! COURIER CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS! To Pittsburgh’s African American community, the Courier is family. COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…THE ONLY WAY TO GO! Subscribe today by calling 412-481-8302 ext. 140 B6 JULY 8-14, 2020 FORUM NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER Symbols, statues e Declaration of Independence, Glenn Ellis and substance revolutionary ideas and changing systems Commentary Last year was the 400th body is a temple” isn’t taken (TriceEdneyWire.com)—Socially iso- anniversary of African slaves J. Pharoah Doss seriously because they’re lated and alone in my home, I lifted my arriving at Virginia’s James- centuries removed from its fist into the air when I learned that the town colony in 1619. The New original meaning. In ancient Mississippi legislature voted to remove York Times commemorated times the ritual of forgiveness COVID-19: Where the Confederate stars and bars from their this event with a collection of Check It Out for sins was to sacrifice an an- flag. As NACCP President Derrick Jack- essays called The 1619 Project. imal at the temple. That was we are, what we must son said, “it’s been a long time coming.” The 1619 Project proclaimed done because they believed A long time since the songstress Nina that 1619 was the year Amer- God actually lived inside the Simone put it out there with Mississippi ica was founded and not 1776. temple. The early Christians know, what we must do G—damn. A long time since Emmitt Till The senior editor justified this controversial abolished this ritual by proclaiming Christ was massacred for “reckless eyeballing.” narrative by explaining that the ideas in was the sacrifice and God lived in every (TriceEdneyWire.com)—At least 15,000 A long time since James Chaney, Andrew The Declaration of Independence were false believer. The profoundness of this revolu- Black Americans would still be alive if they Goodman, and Michael Schwerner were because slavery still existed after the docu- tionary idea can only be appreciated through had died of COVID-19 at the same rate as murdered. It’s been a long time coming, ment was signed. its historical context. White Americans. This is according to pub- but has Mississippi changed? This year, another Black man was killed by The profoundness of the revolutionary idea lication of a recent study from the APM I’m an economist, so I have to go with a White police officer. The tragedy brought inside The Declaration of Independence has Research Lab called, “The Color of Corona- the data. Mississippi is the most impov- worldwide protests, the destruction of Con- suffered from the same lack of historical virus”. erished state in our nation. It also has federate monuments, national awareness of context. The contemporary concern about Just the latest in a barrage of information the highest percentage of African Amer- Juneteenth, debates about the historical hy- inequality in America has made many, on COVID-19 and the pandemic. How do icans—37 percent. Still, the state voted pocrisy of Independence Day, and whether or including the essayist of The 1619 Project, you make sense out of all of it? How much in a racist White woman—Cindy Hyde- not July 4th represented White supremacy. place all emphasis on the Declaration’s of this do you need to know? What do you Smith, who joked about lynching in the Now, rejecting the 4th of July because The claim that all individuals are created equal. really need to do to protect you and your days leading up to her election. Mississip- Declaration of Independence stated “all men But that wasn’t the revolutionary idea. The family? pians found such jokes acceptable since are created equal” but Black people were revolutionary idea was, “unalienable rights Let’s start at the beginning. they rejected Mike Espey’s candidacy for still enslaved is an understandable position. endowed by the Creator.” Coronaviruses are a large family of virus- the Mississippi Senate seat that Hyde- The only problem is its hindsight and the The Declaration of Independence an- es that are known to cause illness ranging Smith now occupies. He garnered 46 per- revolutionary idea gets lost. Unfortunately, nounced American sovereignty by chal- from the common cold to more severe dis- cent of the vote in what was described as that happens to most revolutionary ideas. lenging the divine right of kings. The eases such as Severe Acute Respiratory the closest Senate election in Mississippi Let’s take Christianity, for example. For con- divine-right theory stated kings derived syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respi- since 1988, still, his defeat speaks to the temporary Christians the revolutionary idea their authority from God and could not be ratory Syndrome (MERS). COVID-19 is a intransigence of racism in his state. Per- behind the faith is God’s son died and res- held accountable by parliament or any other new strain of coronavirus that has not been haps his 2020 candidacy will yield differ- urrected to redeem humanity from original earthly authority. The revolutionary ideas previously identified in humans. ent results. From my perspective, though, sin. But that wasn’t the revolutionary idea of unalienable rights stated every individual According to the South China Morning it’s not the symbolic flag, but also the sub- in antiquity. There were other myths about was born with rights granted to them by the Post, a 55-year-old individual from Hu- stantive racial inequality in Mississippi. deities returning from the dead, so another Creator, it was the government’s responsibil- bei province in China may have been the So while I also cheered that the Princ- resurrection story wouldn’t have been novel ity to protect these rights, and the king had first person to have contracted COVID-19, eton University Board of trustees finally or even interesting. no divine right to rule. November 17, 2019. The COVID-19 virus agreed to remove the nation’s racist 28th The revolutionary idea the early Chris- Changing century-old systems require first hit the United States in January 2020; President’s name from its public poli- tians introduced to the world was that revolutionary ideas, not recycled rhetoric by the first death here was in February; and cy school, I wonder if anything else has the believer’s body was the temple of God. those that believe the legacy of slavery gives by March, the virus had hit all 50 states! changed at Princeton. Students have de- To modern churchgoers the phrase “your them a divine right to be destructive. Now, here we are six months later, after 3 manded a more diversified faculty and months of “sheltering in place”, and signs curriculum and funding for research on of “reopening” are popping up, while at the reparation. The name change is the first same time, some states and cities are having to close as soon as they open. The media is continuing to bombard us with more Past due time for American healthcare information than any of us could, reason- Julianne Malveaux ably, be expected to be able to process. We’ve now passed a half-million cases around the system to protect Black Americans world, and 2.5 million infection cases, and more than 125,000 deaths here in the Unit- (NNPA)—Today, Amer- surprise medical bills, at ed States. Commentary icans are facing unprec- Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. higher costs compared to At this rate, half of the entire population edented times. We are in White Americans. of the United States will be infected by the the midst of a global pan- Congress holds the pen end of the year. demic, our country has when it comes to reform- In light of these dismal statistics and fallen into an economic ing surprise medical facts, we still aren’t sure how bad things step. What is the next step? recession, and hundreds Commentary billing in this country, really are. It seems that the data that is be- In Virginia, Governor Ralph Northam of thousands are protest- but they are falling far ing collected and reported to us is all over (D) said he would remove the statue of ing police brutality and short of what needs to be the place. When it comes to the death count, Jefferson Davis, the traitorous President racial injustice. But there done. There are multiple 63 percent of all the deaths in the United of the Confederacy from Richmond’s Mon- is another epidemic in this country bills in the House and the Senate that States are reported as much as 10 days ument Avenue. As soon as he announced that must be addressed, and it must be claim to rectify this injustice, but all of from the date of death. And that’s after an it, there was a lawsuit challenging his addressed now. them still leave the cost to patients or actual death certificate is issued. Not to decision, and the matter is headed for CNN’s Don Lemon said it best— providers without holding insurance mention that some states report daily, some court. Rita Davis, the Black woman who “there are two deadly viruses killing companies accountable. report weekly, and some report monthly. is Northam’s legal advisor, said the statue Americans: COVID-19 and racism.” While Congress is trying to figure it It takes extra time to code COVID-19 was designed to minimize “a devastating Because of the systematic racism that out, we are seeing the administration deaths. While 80 percent of deaths are evil.” If you walk down Monument Ave- is rooted in our nation, racial dispar- miss the mark as well. In a Twitter electronically processed and coded by nue, evil abounds. Taking the statue down ities in American healthcare have thread on June 22, CMS Administrator NCHS within minutes, most deaths from is a first step for the blackface-wearing caused illness, injury, and death in Seema Verma may have misdiagnosed COVID-19 must be coded by a person, governor, but again what’s next? minority communities across the coun- the real root of the issue—insurers. which takes an average of 7 days. Even as the winds of change are swirl- try. Black Americans suffer the most at Because of the blatant and intrinsic Oh yeah, then there’s the vaccine! In spite ing, there are dinosaurs who cling tena- the hands of the American healthcare greed, these companies are starving of the fact that a successful vaccine clinical ciously to our nation’s racist past. I do not system. Now, we are seeing COVID-19 patients of care and putting the finan- trial typically takes 10 years, we’re being understand why Confederate loyalists shine a much-needed light on the cial burden on their shoulders. promised one as early as January 2021, by seem to have forgotten that THE CON- harsh reality that has been plaguing In a recent Congressional hearing, Dr. Dr. Anthony Fauci . Dr. Francis Collins, di- FEDERACY LOST THE CIVIL WAR. an entire race for centuries. Rhea Boyd, a practicing physician and rector of the National Institutes of Health, Except to stir up his racist base, I don’t In my own home state of North healthcare scholar said, “ensuring that is even more optimistic. He believes, “if all understand why a man who was born Carolina, Black Americans make up insurance is not a barrier to healthcare goes well, maybe as many as 100 million and raised in New York has such loyalty 30 percent of COVID-19 cases and 34 is really critical, particularly for Afri- doses by early 2021” would be possible. to the Confederacy. percent of the COVID-19 deaths, even can Americans...” First, it’s truly a long shot if 10 years is On June 26, the 45th President issued though they only make up 22 percent Insurance companies make billions of the typical amount of time, and we’re hear- an executive order “protecting monu- of the population. Really think about dollars every year by using sly tactics ing about less than a year. According to Gil- ments, memorials, and statues and com- that math. How does it make sense? like skinny networks to lure consumers ead, the pharmaceutical company to devel- batting recent criminal violence.” The That means, 162 Black North Carolin- in and then slap them with a surprise op a treatment for COVID-19, Remdesivir, executive order is replete with combative ians will die due to COVID-19, which medical bill when they go out-of-net- a patient will require six doses, at $520 and incendiary language, describing pro- is 70 more than would be expected work. It is time to put a stop to insur- apiece, over five days, for a total of $2,340. testers as “rioters, arsonists, and left-wing based on the demographic makeup of ance companies making billions off the That’s the cost to the hospital; who knows extremists.” It uses terms like “Marxism” the state. That is 70 more Americans backs of hardworking Americans. how much it will cost the patient. and “agitator” to describe those who op- who will die just because of the color of It is clear that Senator Lamar Al- In the meantime, testing is the buzzword pose historic racism as “ignorant of his- their skin. exander and Representatives Frank traveling throughout communities across tory.” Because of this “ignorance” (look in Unfortunately, these healthcare dis- Pallone and Greg Walden, three of the the nation, today. At this time, the FDA the mirror, Mr. President), the executive parities are nothing new. Black Amer- members committed to eradicating sur- doesn’t require the manufacturers of testing order says the Feds will prosecute people icans have long suffered from a severe prise medical billing, are in the pockets kits to provide information on the accuracy who “destroys, damages or desecrates lack of access to quality, affordable of Big Insurance. The bills they are of the tests. One notable controversy was a monument on federal or state proper- care, which predisposes them to in- sponsoring do not even bring insurance over a test kit produced by Abbott Labora- ty,” and their “accomplices” and imposes creased rates of underlying conditions companies to the negotiating table, let tories’. The FDA and other monitors found criminal penalties of up to 10 years in and illnesses. Due to the lack of access, alone hold them responsible. that Abbott’s “rapid-test” missed between jail. Really? If our nation’s founders had Black Americans are often forced to We are halfway through 2020, and we a third to one-half of infections that were been held to the same specious standards, travel very far for care. This usually still do not have proposed legislation identified correctly by another competing there would be no United States of Amer- means, if they have insurance, they that gets at the root of the surprise manufacturer’s test kit. We should take re- ica. must go to out-of-network facilities and medical billing problem. We must get member that getting tested is not enough The folks who are clinging to statues are often find themselves hit with exorbi- rid of skinny networks, improve access to give you relief from the stress and worry clinging to a way of life where Black peo- tant surprise medical bills. to care, and cover emergency services. about infection from the coronavirus. ple are supposed to bow and scrape and Surprise medical bills are unantici- It is time for insurance companies to The CDC wants us to keep in mind that accept any kind of treatment from “power- pated costs related to out-of-network pay, so we can save Black lives. Black when it comes to testing, “The test result ful” White people. In adhering to the Con- or emergency care a patient received. Lives Matter. only means that you did not have COVID-19 federacy and folks like Woodrow Wilson These bills can range from a $50 pre- (Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is President and at the time of testing. You might test neg- and Andrew Jackson, they are clinging scription drug to $30,000 in emergen- CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers ative if the sample was collected early in to Presidents who were oppressive seg- cy transport. Not surprisingly, Black Association based in Washington, D.C.) your infection and test positive later during regationists. Wilson’s legacy is especially Americans suffer from a higher rate of your illness. You could also be exposed to egregious as he deliberately attempted to COVID-19 after the test and get infected reverse Black progress by resegregating then.” the civil service. Now, we have a President So, what can we do to protect ourselves who would do it all again by embracing Letter to the editor and our families? racism, retweeting a “White power” video, First, each one of us has to decide, and demonizing protesters, and using lan- declare to ourselves, “do I want to live, or guage designed to divide. Racism is so deeply rooted in our culture do I want to die?” All too often, we just not Some of the symbols of racism are be- are fully committed to make sacrifices and ing erased, albeit slowly, but little has efforts that are in our own best interest. We changed about the substance of racial in- Dear Editor: Has there been some progress? Sure. can greatly improve our chances of making equality. People should not be celebrating As a 56-year-old Black man born and But not enough. When I look at racism it through this pandemic, but, like the old symbolic victories unless they are pre- raised in Pittsburgh, I feel the need to I think it can be subtle or overt. It’s bad man was asked, “Do you want to be well?” pared to challenge structural inequality. address my feelings and concerns re- either way and much of the racism I’ve If so, then all we need to do is to practice I cringe when I walk in downtown DC, garding the murder of George Floyd and experienced has been very subtle. the 3 W’s: looking at signs that proclaim “Black the racism I’ve seen and/or experienced When I see these protests of the past Wash your hands thoroughly and often; Lives Matter,” knowing that many of in my lifetime. few weeks, this feels like a civil rights Wear a mask; and Watch how close anyone these stores have exhibited racist behav- I was born in 1964, the year the Civil movement for the 21st century. Of is to you, or vice versa. ior toward Black neighbors. Don’t eradi- Rights Act was passed and growing up in course, there are no easy answers and (The information included in this column is for cate the symbol, Mississippi, Princeton, the 1970s my generation definitely bene- I don’t know if we can ever completely educational purposes only. I do not dispense medi- commercial establishments, if you aren’t fited from the Civil Rights Movement of eradicate racism or racial injustice be- cal advice or prescribe the use of any technique as a also willing to eliminate the substance of the 1950s and 60s. However, although cause it’s so deeply rooted in our culture, replacement form of treatment for physical, mental racial inequality. some gains have been made for people of but I still believe we must and have to or medical problems by your doctor either directly or (Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an author and econ- color since 1964 we are still, as I see it, continue to try. indirectly. Glenn Ellis is Visiting Scholar at The Na- omist who can be reached at www.juliannemal- fighting many of the same battles; police David Perkins tional Bioethics Center at Tuskegee University and a veaux.com) brutality, racial oppression, et. al. Penn Hills Harvard Medical School Research Bioethics Fellow.) America’s best weekly TAKE THIS VIRUS SERIOUSLY Coronavirus continues to disproportionately affect Blacks in Pittsburgh area Page A4

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www.newpittsburghcourier.comPittsburghPittsburgh CourierCourierthenewpittsburghcourier Vol. 111 No. 29 Two Sections Published Weekly $1.00 JULY 15-21, 2020 Clergy members hand-deliver a list of police reform demands to Mayor Peduto

REV. DR. RICHARD WINGFIELD REV. GLENN GRAYSON SR. REV. EARLENE COLEMAN Funding should be reallocated to areas like education, recreation, transportation by Rob Taylor Jr. “With the heinous mur- ders of George Floyd, Bre- Courier Staff Writer onna Taylor and Ahmaud Stevie Wonder wasn’t in Arbery still fresh in our the house, but the faith minds, we gather to say leaders that comprise The enough is enough,” said Concerned Clergy of West- Rev. Dr. Richard Wingfield ern Pennsylvania recently of Unity Baptist Church “Signed, Sealed and Deliv- in Braddock, at the news ered” to Mayor Bill Pedu- conference. “Since then at to’s Downtown office a list least two or three other of demands for local police lives of African Americans reform and accountability. have been taken at the The local pastors from hands of police violence. various denominations by- We gather to voice our an- passed the local post office ger, our hurt, our frustra- and marched right into the tion and offer our contin- mayor’s office on June 29, ued dedication to the call moments before a press for social justice and a stop conference outlining the to police brutality, locally list of demands was pre- and abroad. sented to local media at “We recognize that others Freedom Corner in the Hill have already submitted District. their list of demands and Copies of the demands we applaud their efforts also made it to Allegh- and honor their efforts. eny County Executive However, we come as cler- Rich Fitzgerald and Pitts- gy to do our part, to let city burgh Police Chief Scott Schubert. CLERGY MEMBERS leave Mayor Bill Peduto’s office at the City-County Building, Downtown, June 29, after giving him a list of demands SEE FUNDING A6 for local police reform. (Photos by J.L. Martello) Sean ‘Nitty’ Reese, owner of Secrets Night Club, remembered Passed away after shooting in Homewood on May 31 by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer Very few people knew about the time Sean “Nitty” Reese saw a kid walking outside during Pittsburgh’s cold days without a coat, and Reese stopping and giving the kid a spare coat he had in his car. Very few people knew about the young African American kids who looked up to him, and when they asked him for money, he said, “You have to earn it,” and bought the kids a cool- er and water bottles, and the kids would sell the bottles to residents for income. SEAN “NITTY” REESE, in this photo with his mother, Ondii Gray. SEAN “NITTY” REESE, in this photo with his longtime girlfriend, Reese, a 2003 Perry Tra- Reese was 34 years old. Taronda Brown. SEAN “NITTY” REESE ditional Academy graduate, would have turned 35 last block party, early Sunday, Club was a welcome sight. put a flyer in their hand, he NEW Wednesday, July 8. Instead, May 31. To Reese, it was his one of had a personal conversa- his life was cut short due The shooting killed Reese, his primary passions. tion with them, and all of Pittsburgh Courier to what one person told the who was the owner of Se- “When Sean told me he those people showed up,” New Pittsburgh Courier crets Night Club in Home- wanted to open up Secrets, said his longtime girlfriend, To subscribe, call was a “very unnecessary” wood, on Kelly Street. we made flyers, and he had Taronda Brown, in an ex- 412-481-8302 disagreement, which led to To many of the millennial me drive (him) all over the ext. 136 a shooting at a Homewood generation, Secrets Night city. Every single person, he SEE REESE A8 A2 JULY 15-21, 2020 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER METRO JULY 15-21, 2020 A3

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: New Pittsburgh Courier ARTIST KYLE HOLBROOK paints the faces of George Floyd and Sandra Bland, seen in the top photos, on the side of the Community Empowerment Association building in Homewood. Antwon Rose II is also part of the mural, in the red shirt. To see the mural, visit the CEA Building, 7120 Kelly St. (Photos by Courier photographer 315 East Carson Street J.L. Martello) Pittsburgh, PA 15219 A4 JULY 15-21, 2020 METRO NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER Parents, be very careful before sending your kids, even college students, back to any school There is now an insidi- ers posing as “hamburger ous and invisible enemy helpers” that have sup- AFRICAN AMERICANS AND CORONAVIRUS that stands firm within posedly been elected to and without the borders protect us, not infect us. IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY of our bedrooms, homes, Boys and girls, the suck- hospitals, schools, our er-free countdown has stores as well as almost begun. The President of As of July 13, 2020 anywhere that we con- these United States is duct business or find suggesting—no, demand- pleasure. ing—that we send our That enemy has a children back to school Blacks account for 1,291 of the 5,033 cases (26 percent) of coronavirus of which the name—coronavirus. I am to perform as if things not going to directly or were normal. Athletics race is known. In 613 additional cases, the race is unknown. indirectly use this space seems to be now serving to define or refine the as infectious tools conve- definition of what this niently used to influence From those cases, Blacks account for 150 of the 470 hospitalizations (32 percent) of scourge represents. How- future elections. The cur- ever, I am mostly con- rent health crisis may which the race is known. In 12 additional hospitalizations, the race is unknown. cerned about how many be affecting a particular high school and college demographic in order to Blacks account for 40 of the 198 deaths (20 percent) due to coronavirus of which the Inside Conditions race is known. In 2 additional deaths, the race is unknown. Aubrey

learning. In the game of a false shortage just to hitchhiker, coronavirus, ing events taking place in Bruce “life monopoly,” many of treat those that might be back home from the pan- both collegiate and pro- the students looked at deemed “worthier” as far demic-ridden school with fessional sports venues college scholarships as as receiving treatments? them? There is no nation- across America. But if we athletic organizations achieve a certain political “get-out-of-the-hood-free Parents, do not send your al testing and diagnostic aren’t mindful and careful have been utilizing a ton outcome. A high school cards.” Nowadays, for an children or grandchildren apparatus in place in our about the decision to pre- of resources and energy or college linebacker or athlete to sign a letter to a political slaughter- schools, locally, regionally maturely force our chil- trying to devise and sell defensive back not only of intent to perform at house for a college schol- or nationally for athletes dren back into infected strategies to lure young has to compete against a any school, that commit- arship, now or in the fu- or the student body in dungeons and miniature athletes back onto the pulling guard, tight end ment might potentially ture. The real meaning of general. How can we pre- tombs disguised as class- football, soccer and la- or cover five wide receiv- evolve into a “death war- scholarship is about to be vent infection on the grid- rooms and sports arenas, crosse fields and on the er sets. COVID-19 is now rant.” What can be done tested. Let’s see if educat- iron, the basketball court the national anthem, as basketball and volley- functioning as that extra to ensure that we don’t ing our children, whether or the hockey rink, when well as any other ode to ball courts…covertly running back or wide re- sanction our children to it be through virtual or no such safeguards even patriotism, may very well attempting to reignite ceiver sneaking out of the become “conveyer belts” onsite learning, has any exist? serve as a funeral march. competition with as little backfield or running a of sickness, sadness and value to these “educators” There has been a hu- American patriot Patrick attention and fanfare as pick play that may be im- death? On Feb. 12, the aside from their athletic mongous bruhaha con- Henry once said: “Give me possible. possible for any defensive Centers for Disease Con- prowess. What value do cerning the singing or liberty or give me death.” I have not heard much scheme to stop. This new trol and Prevention is- sick and dying parents playing of the national He didn’t say, “Give me chatter from sports ad- enemy is now attacking sued press briefings say- have after their child anthem and kneeling on liberty and let me die.” ministrators in regards our physical, mental and ing that “the CDC does brings an unwelcome one knee prior to sport- to what concrete plans spiritual health at will, not currently recommend they are formulating and deceiving those that they the use of face masks for coordinating to “educate” took an oath to enlighten the general public.” That these so-called “student and protect. mandate was issued to ‘Ball’ of Confusion! And athletes” during this In the past, parents and preserve scarce PPE possible season-ending students would rejoice supplies for essential re- pandemic. This commu- as if they won the lot- sponders. Who is to say niqué is a must-read for tery when a student-ath- that when an effective it’s not the owners! all low- and middle-class lete would sign a letter treatment or anti-coro- Black folks, brown folks, of intent, committing navirus drugs become White folks and yellow themselves to a particu- available, that those If you’re a pro athlete, why would you risk folks! We have execution- lar institution of higher drugs might encounter playing this season? Shoutout to my 33 loy- fessional athlete (and I or Sidney Crosby or Mike al fans that are still out make my case there first) Trout or recent gazillion- there fighting the fight, want to risk everything aire, Patrick Mahomes, fighting the virus and they spent their entire would risk all they’ve fighting the other virus, life to achieve, just to gained just to play a aka, the president. And, play a half of a meaning- meaningless season. as one of our nation’s less season that everyone I tip my cap to the real- greatest leaders said… knows will be marked ly smart ones that have “Fight the power, we got- with an asterisk? Let’s opted out and I wouldn’t ta fight the powers that be totally honest here. play nothing but the ra- be!” That’s right, Chuck Ask yourself, how can dio until they discovered D. of the rap group Pub- any team really claim a a vaccine. And, if you re- lic Enemy. championship with all ally think I am the lone Before I go any further, these improvised and bo- voice, there’s 100,000- allow me to pay homage gus rules? plus no longer with us in to my lead in title. “Ball Now I know I am the the U.S. who have died of Confusion, that’s what lone voice out here try- due to coronavirus. They the world is today.” The ing to shout reason out would give me their vote mighty Temptations brought you that classic hit in 1970, but if you Overtime take it line by line, you would think it was released just last week! And now, to the double meaning here. I know, I Bill know, you want me to get to it. Just hold on, Ju- nior, it’s not like you got Neal somewhere to go or ha- ven’t heard that there’s a pandemic going on here... to you people who claim if they could. Sadly, they Anyway, “Ball”—any if you don’t have sports, cannot. kind of ball—football, you’re going to die. Well, REMEMBER WHAT basketball, soccer ball, how ‘bout this; how ‘bout CHUCK D. SAID… golf ball, baseball, ten- if you’re the person play- “FIGHT THE POWER nis ball…hell, for that ing the sport and you re- THAT BE”…THAT BE matter, anything that ally could die. THE OWNERS AND rolls, bounces or you can For the life of me I just MARKETERS, THEY’RE kick it or hit it…why in don’t understand why THE ONLY ONES THAT the world would any pro- LeBron or Tiger or Brady WIN! NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER JULY 15-21, 2020 A5 A6 JULY 15-21, 2020 RELIGION/METRO NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER Praise & Worship Clergy members hand-deliver a list of ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH police reform demands to Mayor Peduto

Crawford & Centre Ave. Funding should be reallocated to areas like education, recreation, transportation Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 FUNDING FROM A1 Sunday Mass and county elected offi- 10:30 A.M. cials know that clergy across Western Pennsyl- www.stbtmchurch.org vania are just as concerned and involved as East Liberty Presbyterian Church well,” Rev. Wingfield added. Rev. Dr. The letter delivered to Randy Bush, Mayor Peduto had six Senior Pastor major areas of concern: 412-441-3800 Public Safety, Education, Transportation, Housing, Worship Online on Facebook/YouTube Mental Health, and Rec- www.ELPC.church reation. Journey Worship...... 8:45 a.m. From the police depart- Sanctuary Worship...... 11 a.m. ment’s $114 million bud- Taize -Wednesdays...... 7 p.m. get for 2021, the clergy members believe some of that money should be reallocated to address Curious about the aforementioned areas of concern. The clergy Quakerism? members stressed they You Are Welcome weren’t advocating “de- at our Meetings for Worship funding” of the police, but Sundays at 10:30 a.m. a “reallocation” of some of the funding. Pittsburgh Friends Meeting In the area of Public REV. VICTOR GRIGSBY 4836 Ellsworth Avenue Safety, members want a www.quaker.org/pghpamm/ task force to be created which explores “alterna- based programming that ates additional social care for Blacks that “oth- in the city, the city should tive ways to respond to teaches students the laws hardships,” the letter er communities receive,” invest in a “Shots Made” harm” in the Black com- of public safety, while read. “Funding for neigh- and in the Recreation program, featuring open munity. There could be a taking on the responsi- borhood services provid- arena, the clergy wants basketball courts in the Join our clergy person who goes bility and accountability ed by community groups, the city to have 24-hour city. This keeps kids off along with the first-re- roles in their communi- such as a van to carry se- recreation centers. These the streets, and, as an ex- sponders; or maybe a ties,” the letter, obtained niors to and from the gro- centers would have ample, on the basketball social worker or mental by the New Pittsburgh cery store, transporting sports programs staffed courts. growing health counselor. Courier, read. youth to and from sum- by coaches and athletes, Reverend Wingfield said In the area of Educa- In the area of Transpor- mer jobs, and providing and social workers, the that “public safety” is not tion, public safety offi- tation, clergy members needed transportation for letter read, should be always about police en- Praise cials could be teamed want greater investments single-parent households provided to assist in the forcement. When there’s with school-aged stu- in public transportation would be an extended ap- development of recre- substandard housing, ed- dents. “Through relation- in underserved commu- plication of public safety.” ational programs. ucation and recreation, ship-building and educa- nities. When someone The clergy wants more The clergy also noted “they all breed into pub- and tion, rapport can be built doesn’t have the neces- funds into the city’s af- that in addition to the lic safety issues,” he said. between officers and stu- sary transportation to fordable housing fund, a city always counting how That’s why some of the dents through strength- get to their jobs, it “cre- better quality of health many gunshots are fired funding should be redi- rected, he said. Worship “We’re looking at this thing holistically,” Rev. Wingfield added at the June 29 news conference. Church “It’s got to be a holistic approach to public safety. If all we’re going to do is Community! police, that’s only a small portion of the problem.” The letter addressed to the mayor was signed by For rate infor- Rev. Wingfield, Bishop Dorsey McConnell, Rev. mation, call 412- Victor J. Grigsby, Rev. Earlene Coleman, Rev. 481-8302, ext. Marie Kelly, Rev. Leon Harrison and Rev. Glenn 128. Grayson Sr. “We want to see Pitts- burgh live up to its billing as the most livable city in the nation,” Rev. Wingfield said. “But it TELL US cannot live up to its name if the voices of African Americans are ignored.” ABOUT “As discussions about policework in America move forward, we wel- YOUR come feedback and guid- ance,” Public Safety Di- rector Wendell Hissrich NEXT said to WPXI-TV (Chan- nel 11) in response to the REVEREND GLENN GRAYSON SR. addresses the media at the June 29 press conference at Freedom Corner. (Photos by Courier photog- letter. “We support many CHURCH rapher J.L. Martello) of the suggested reforms, including health experts helping officers who deal EVENT! with non-traditional issues that are now part of everyday modern po- We want to place licing, such as drug ad- your event in our diction, mental health issues and homelessness. Church Circuit We want to make sure that those who need help weekly calendar! get it, and in the most Send info to: constructive and healing way possible.” New Pittsburgh Courier Bishop McConnell, the bishop of the Episcopal 315 E. Carson St. Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh PA 15219 said at the news conference that “we stand with Or Email us! our friends, our sisters religion@ and brothers, and in doing so we want to be clear newpittsburgh that we do not set the courier.com agenda. We listen to the agenda that is being set by the leaders of communities of color, and come alongside and support them in any way that The we can. ‘Lend our priv- ilege’ to see if we can’t help their goals and their vision for peace and jus- Courier tice in their communities become more of a reality. Until there is peace and justice in these commu- is THE VOICE nities, there is not peace and justice for us all.” of Black Pittsburgh. BISHOP DORSEY MCCONNELL NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER METRO JULY 15-21, 2020 A7 Ethnic & Diversity Studies Vietnam War program offered at CCAC veterans spotlighted Professor Ralph Proctor says program is in ‘Da 5 Bloods’

It has been two and half the cast improvised, such freedom fighter or person important for today’s students decades since veteran as the riverboat market of color fighting a war actor Delroy Lindo and scene and when Lindo’s abroad when there’s a war Academy Award-winning character breaks off from in your own backyard. by Rob Taylor Jr. own and provide an an- Proctor said in a release director Spike Lee hooked the group. For millennials like alytic framework which Courier Staff Writer provided to the Courier. up for a feature film. The Give Delroy Lindo his myself, “Da 5 Bloods” is facilitates awareness of “Demonstrations about pair reunited for Net- flowers now. He continues definitely an eye-opener. Esteemed Communi- how cultures vary and these events show us that flix’s recent release, “Da 5 to solidify his seat with Even in fiction, the drops ty College of Allegheny shape the human experi- the world is questioning Bloods,” a tale of five Viet- the Hollywood greats, and of relevant, thought-pro- County professor Ralph ence. our leadership as a wel- nam War veterans who re- Proctor is known to many “The most import- coming nation that treats turn to Asia to tie up some across the Pittsburgh re- ant thing students will all people equally. We loose ends. Merecedes J. Williams gion as a civil rights his- learn is that our world must dedicate ourselves Lindo portrays Paul, a torian and champion of has been built on dis- to removing the last veteran suffering with African American history criminating against any vestiges of racism from PTSD, wrestling with and culture. people who are not mid- America. When we truly some war secrets, and On Movies And he told the New dle-class people who con- embrace our differences battling with a “fractious” Pittsburgh Courier that trol the wealth,” Proctor and learn to value one relationship with his son. /TV Shows with racial injustice top- told the Courier in an another—when we learn Even in this vulnerable of-mind for many in the exclusive interview, July to sing each other’s songs role, he is fierce, strong, U.S. right now, it’s the 7. “They will learn that and dance each other’s and proves why he works perfect time for college we have been duped into dances—the world will well with a visionary like students to dive even believing that White, be a better place.” Lee. he is tremendously talent- voking history is cause for deeper into America’s Christian, rich people Students who complete “I needed to do this,” said ed. deeper conversation about complicated intersection should control the world the courses—at least 18 Lindo, referring to his part Also starring Chadwick how Black people respond of race, gender, discrimi- and that the ‘American credits are required for in the film. Boseman, Isiah Whitlock to war and the sacrifices nation and inequality. Way’ is the only way and completion—will receive In a virtual roundta- Jr., Norm Lewis, Clarke a Black solider endures. I Proctor is the creator of all those who are dif- a certificate, which, Proc- ble hosted by the African Peters and Jonathan Ma- did not know much about CCAC’s Ethnic & Diversi- ferent do not deserve to tor said, “can be consid- American Film Critics jors, “Da 5 Bloods,” even the Vietnam War before ty Studies program. Cur- share in the ‘American ered as a ‘minor.’” It’s Association, Lindo told in 2.5 hours, is hard not watching this film, but I rent college students— Dream.’ They will learn great to have on a per- me, “Spike inviting me to to watch. The suspense, am now on a journey to not just those who attend the negative impact rac- son’s resume, Proctor be part of his projects has intensity, and striking at- find out more. CCAC—are able to take ism and discrimination said. “Many multi-na- gifted me with these bril- tractiveness of war broth- That is powerful rem- the courses in the pro- play in poverty. They will tional corporations are liant characters to play as ers coming together calls nants of a great film. gram as electives. learn that we have been looking for people who an actor.” Lindo has graced for a really good cine- CCAC said on its web- brainwashed into believ- show competence in un- us with his presence in matic picture. site that students who ing that only the values derstanding people of di- three Spike Lee joints This film is a dark complete the courses in of rich, White, straight, verse backgrounds.” previously—Malcolm X reminder that Black the program will be able Christians are accept- Courses taken in the (1992), Crooklyn (1994) soldiers went half- to: write critically about able and all the rest of us first semester would and Clockers (1995). way around the world race, class and ethnicity have been marginalized include Ethnic and Di- “That’s a gift to any actor defending a coun- in social and historical all of our lives.” versity Studies, Intro- that a creative worker of try where they were contexts; analyze multi- The program is based duction to Black Wom- Spike’s statute would just barely free. Black ple categories of social at the college’s Allegheny en and Leadership, and call you and say, ‘hey man, servicemen fought diversity; describe the Campus and the Home- Achieving Cultural Com- come do this,’ not only the on the front lines in scope and magnitude wood-Brushton Center. petence. In the second invitation to participate in Vietnam, while their of ethnic and diversity Proctor said that em- semester, after taking the work, but the content brothers and sisters studies from an interdis- ployers are increasingly Understanding Violence of the part,” Lindo said. fought for voting, de- ciplinary approach; iden- looking to employ those in America, students can There is an undeniable segregation, and basic tify different cultures of with cultural competency choose two “restricted alchemy when Spike Lee civil liberties. the world through the skills, which one would electives,” such as His- is sitting in the director’s The Civil Rights study of language, litera- get by enrolling in the tory of the Pittsburgh chair and Delroy Lindo is Movement and the ture, religion and artistic CCAC program. Civil Rights Movement, on the other side of the Vietnam War were creations or other disci- “Recent events that Cultural Competence camera. Both Lee and running congruently. plines; and distinguish have taken place in our and Diverse Populations, Lindo admitted some of Dr. King, Malcolm X, among the experiences of country have caught the History of Women, Afri- the most powerful scenes and JFK were all as- a variety of diverse cul- attention of the world can American Literature, in the movie are oppor- sassinated during this tures different from their in an unflattering way,” and Urban Sociology. tunities where Lindo and time. Imagine being a A8 JULY 15-21, 2020 METRO NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER Sean ‘Nitty’ Reese, owner of Secrets Night Club, remembered

FAMILY AND FRIENDS remember Sean Reese, who died in a shooting in Homewwod, May 31. (Photos by Courier Photographer J.L. Martello) Passed away after shooting in Homewood on May 31

just felt it, even then.” had done him wrong. ese, but Brown said she to understand that it goes Gray said she decided, “We don’t always know if always encouraged him to for Black-on-Black crime after having Reese at age our children are going to persevere. She used to tell as well. “God didn’t create 16, that “I was only going do what we say, but after Reese that even “if he had us to kill one another,” she to have one child because I this, after Sean’s death, I to live in a cardboard box,” said. needed to give Sean my all. realized that he was doing she would live right there Pittsburgh Police don’t I felt that is what he need- everything and more than with him, and together, have any suspects in cus- ed.” what I taught him to do,” they would make a way. tody in the deadly shooting, Gray said she put her all she said. “I understand now Reese is survived by, which also sent three oth- into raising Reese. “I told what God’s purpose was, among others, his mother, ers to the hospital. Sean to be the best at what- why he was here. He was his father (Melvin Reese “I’m so mad…sometimes I ever he does, and to do it here to touch people’s lives.” III), Michael A. Mullen Sr., just feel like if it wasn’t for well. I always told him that Reese’s best friend was and Brown. Reese is the fa- my grandkids, I probably he needed to give back to also his longtime girlfriend, ther of daughters DeMonie wouldn’t even want to go on the community because the Brown. Brown told the Cou- Graham Reese and Khloe anymore, because he was community gave to him, rier that she had known Brown Reese, and a son, my life,” Gray told the Cou- and to always treat people Reese for 11 years, and wit- Rhoyal Reese. rier. “He was my only child, good.” nessed his entrepreneurial, Reese’s mother, Gray, said and I put my all into him.” Gray told the Courier that go-getter spirit. Sometimes, that when she hears the somehow, Reese would ﬁnd there would be times that phrase “Black Lives Mat- a way to forgive those who wouldn’t go so well for Re- ter,” she wants everyone

REESE FROM A1 clusive interview with the around town, working in Courier. “Before Secrets, construction (specializing no one wanted to come to in masonry), and was also Homewood.” a family intervention and And before Secrets, foot- prevention specialist for the ball was Reese’s true pas- Community Empowerment sion. Reese was recognized Association in Homewood. as one of the top defensive “He was committed to us- players in the City League ing his innovative spirit, at Perry. A defensive end/ people skills, talents and tight end, he was part of resources for improving the a Perry powerhouse—the quality of life for himself, Commodores won City his family and community,” League titles in football six Reese’s obituary read, ob- consecutive years, begin- tained by the Courier. ning with the 2000-2001 “Sean was special, he was season. deﬁnitely special,” said his After Perry, Reese played mother, Ondii Gray, in an TARONDA BROWN AND ONDII GRAY, with two of Sean Reese’s children, Khloe Brown Reese and DeMonie Graham Reese. football for Indiana Univer- exclusive interview with sity of Pennsylvania. the Courier’s J.L. Martello. The 6’3” Reese could be “I knew that Sean was des- seen mentoring youth tined for something great. I

“We don’t always know if our children are going to do what we say, but after this, after Sean’s death, I realized that he was doing everything and more than what I taught him to do. I understand now what God’s purpose was, why he was here. He was here to touch people’s lives.” ONDII GRAY Mother of Sean Reese NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER METRO JULY 15-21, 2020 A9 BLACK WOMEN CONTINUING TO MAKE MAJOR MOVES Swegle becomes Navy’s rst Black female tactical jet pilot; Reid to host weeknight show on MSNBC by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer Even before the May 25 tragic death of George Floyd by a White Minne- apolis police officer, Black women like Navy Lt. j.g. Madeline Swegle and television host Joy Reid were busy soaring to new heights. It just so happens that, as the U.S. is in the middle of an increased awareness of racial and social injustice due to Floyd’s death, which was cap- tured on video for all to see, the latest feats from Lt. Swegle and Reid have bubbled to the forefront. Lieutenant Swegle became the Navy’s first known Black female tactical jet pilot last week, as she completed the undergraduate Tactical Air (Strike) pilot training syllabus, according to the Navy Times. She’ll be able to fly aircraft such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the F-35C Joint Strike Fighter and the EA-18G Growler. MADELINE SWEGLE, the Navy’s ﬁrst Black female tactical jet pilot. JOY REID is now the host of “The ReidOut” on MSNBC starting July 20 at 7p.m. The Navy Times also reported that Swegle is a 2017 graduate of the “Go forth and kick butt.” Black women who host slot and this kind of na- U.S. Naval Academy and “Congratulations, LTJG a national news show on tional platform.” is currently assigned to Swegle!” tweeted Sen. weeknights. Gwen Ifill, Reid currently hosts the Redhawks of Train- Elizabeth Warren on July who co-anchored PBS weekend mornings on ing Squadron (VT) 21 at 11. “You make the @US- Newshour, was the last MSNBC, titled “AM Joy.” Naval Air Station Kings- Navy and our country Black woman to do so. If- Reid is a 1991 gradu- ville in Texas. She will stronger.” ill died in 2016. ate of Harvard Univer- earn her Wings of Gold at In 1980, Brenda Rob- “African American jour- sity. She was formerly a ceremony on July 31. inson became the first nalists, African American the managing editor of “It’s official. My daugh- Black female graduate women in particular, are theGrio.com, which was ter, Maddy continues from the Navy’s Aviation woefully underrepresent- catered to African Amer- rise,” Swegle’s father, Officer Candidate School. ed on TV in all hours of ican audiences. Reid also Carey Manhertz, wrote Come July 20, you’ll be the day,” said MSNBC’s 9 hosted a radio show in on Twitter, July 9. seeing much more of Reid, p.m. weeknight host Ra- Miami, and has contrib- “Very proud of LTJG as she has been named chel Maddow to The New uted articles to The New Swegle,” Rear Adm. Paula the 7 p.m. weeknight York Times. “But particu- York Times and The Mi- D. Dunn, the Navy’s vice host of “The ReidOut” on larly in prime time, it’s ami Herald, among other chief of information, cable network MSNBC. just a desert. Joy more publications. wrote on Twitter, July 9. There are currently no than deserves this time MADELINE SWEGLE A10 JULY 15-21, 2020 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER New Pittsburgh Courier Black Lives Matter: Classiﬁeds Find what you need We are the Black from jobs to cars community to housing J. Pharoah Doss B6 BUSINESSJULY 15-21, 2020 B4-5 B www.newpittsburghcourier.com

Black McDonald’s franchise owners should matter by Trevor Coleman engaged on a racist course of conduct, from his “inner circles of trusted ad- “The bottom line is they come in un- and “publicly abandoned its commit- The Michigan Chronicle visors” and defunding of the previous- dercapitalized for traditional reasons ment to racial equality on a compa- ly-vibrant McDonald’s African Ameri- and then are given restaurants in chal- (Part two of a three-part series) ny-wide basis.” can Council (MA2C), that worked hard lenging areas with higher operating During a recent interview with CNBC Beyond the alleged personal discrim- to develop African American leader- costs and are subject to three strikes news, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczins- inatory treatment toward the women ship talent in the company and in the you’re out by the corporation,” said Car- ki bragged that his company has “proba- and other African Americans, the suit ranks of its franchise owners meant the men Caruso, an attorney for the plain- bly” created more Black millionaires than also alleges the corporate web page “death penalty” for that critical tool for tiffs. any other corporation. operated by McDonald’s Corporation Black business development. This dilemma is illuminated in the Setting aside the fact the NFL, NBA, shifted away from its commitment from Proof of this is in the steep decrease in lawsuit which alleges under Easter- and a few other businesses may have promoting ra- the number of brook and Kempczinski African Amer- something to say about that, the state- cial diversity African Ameri- ican franchisees were intentionally hit ment nonetheless did raise the question to gender di- “The lawsuit further states McDon- cans executives hard on both their revenue and expens- of the fast-food behemoth’s relationship versity, which in the top ranks es. They allegedly suffered the dispro- with the African American community. ominously por- ald’s knew or recklessly disregarded of McDonald’s portionate loss of revenue from losing Especially given the shocking allega- tended new cor- the likelihood that BBV2020, among operations African American customers more like- tions of systemic racism at the highest porate priorities which fell to ly to dine in a restaurant owned by levels of the corporation made this year that allegedly other financial stresses imposed by seven in 2019 an African American franchisee, dis- in a lawsuit against the corporation by proved to be the company, would put dispropor- from 42 in 2014, proportionately in African American former African American executives. detrimental to the year before communities; coupled with sharply in- Kempczinski himself is at the center Black franchise tionate financial stress on African the new regime creased expenses imposed under proof the lawsuit as a defendant along owners and took over. And grams such as “‘Big Bolder Vision 2020’ with former CEO Steve Easterbrook, their customers. American franchisees and cause a nearly one out (BBV2020) that McDonald’s rolled out and Charles Strong, the Chief Field Of- “Where the disproportionate number of them to of three African in 2017, sparking widespread franchi- ficer. Company has American fran- see discontent.” The plaintiffs, Detroit native Dom- total control leave the system. McDonald’s knew chisees left the “The lawsuit further states McDon- ineca Neal, and Vicki Guster-Hines; over its mes- but did it anyway.” McDonalds sys- ald’s knew or recklessly disregarded former vice presidents allege the men sage, McDon- tem since East- the likelihood that BBV2020, among were part of a new leadership team that ald’s under Eas- erbrook arrived other financial stresses imposed by the took over in 2015 and not only tolerated terbrook and which was dis- company, would put disproportionate and engaged in sexist and racially dis- Kempczinski proclaimed a commitment proportionate to the loss of non-African financial stress on African American criminatory treatment of them and oth- to gender diversity but conspicuously American franchisees. franchisees and cause a disproportion- er employees but implemented a new omitted any mention of a correspond- McDonald’s has steadfastly denied ate number of them to leave the system. business plan which had a discrimina- ing commitment to diversity based on all allegations of the discriminatory McDonald’s knew but did it anyway” tory impact on Black McDonald’s fran- race,” the suit claimed. treatment of Black employees or Black the lawsuit states. chisees and a formerly thriving Black The lawsuit further states its then- franchise owners. However, there have Larry C. Triplett, chairman, and CEO customer base. CEO, Easterbrook, repeatedly empha- long been complaints from both within of the National Black McDonald’s Op- The lawsuit alleges under the leader- sized that under his leadership ‘diver- and outside the company that its Black erators Association (NBMOA) acknowl- ship of Easterbrook at McDonald’s Cor- sity’ at McDonald’s meant ‘women,’ franchisees operators carried a heavi- poration and Kempczinski at McDon- omitting African Americans. And that er burden to meet corporate demands SEE FRANCHISE B2 ald’s USA, the McDonald’s companies his exclusion of African Americans than its White counterparts. You have to ‘Get out of Dumb’ before you can ‘Get out of Debt’ Have you ever done something so stupid high-level concepts and prepares you to high school or college, most people have gave him a higher face amount (coverage) that you wanted to smack yourself and pass tests. The concepts of beta, standard obtained what they know about finance and a $90 monthly premium. He was able scream out loud WHAT WAS I THINK- deviation, economic yield curve, fiscal and from bankers, insurance agents, financial to save $800 per month. He then used ING? I know I have. I recall one freezing monetary policy don’t necessarily trickle advisors, tax preparers, loan officers and that $800 to accelerate his process of get- cold winter day. The snow was up to my down to basic everyday money manage- realtors...all of whom are trying to sell ting out of debt. knees. I had to go out and run an errand. ment. Training acquired in the finance you on their financial products and ser- After doing research on his own, he came Car was low on gas. I made a stop at the industry teaches you how to service or sell vices. Most of the earnings are based on to learn that what he was selling and buy- gas station. The gas cap was frozen shut. various financial products. In addition to 75-100 percent commission. Yes, it’s true ing wasn’t in his best interest. He got out I pried and I pried. I couldn’t get this gas product and service training, you get com- you have smart, morally correct, selfless of dumb, and then he got out of debt. cap to open for nothing. Then I got this pliance training to ensure you don’t sub- people in these positions that have their There’s a myriad of financial products, bright idea. Use a lighter to thaw it. I ject the financial institution to breaking client’s best interest at heart. It’s also financial services, and financial concepts scurried around in the car and located a the law. Neither academic finance train- true that you have self-centered people that are widely touted and widely accept- lighter. I went back to the gas tank, igniting nor working in in these positions who ed that’s not always in the best interest of ed the lighter with fire and right before I banking and finance are more concerned the end user. Cash-Value Life Insurance put fire on the gas cap, I thought better taught me how to win about themselves earn- vs. Term Life Insurance is one of them. of it. I screamed to myself, WHAT WAS with money. ing money on the trans- Instead of being educated on the pros I THINKING? Can you imagine some If those of us who’ve actions than they are and cons on both, we’ve been sold on the idiot igniting fire to a gas tank? Poof- been trained and helping the client make necessity of Cash-Value Life Insurance. Poof-BOOM! It was me who was almost worked in finance hav- the best decision for Why? Cash-Value Life Insurance pays the that idiot. Fortunately for me, my brain en’t been given proper themselves. You have higher commission. kicked in before I completed the act. information and tools to be able to choose be- I’ll cover more in future articles. I’d be Renowned Radio Host and Personal Fi- to win with money, tween the two. remiss if I didn’t touch on Building Credit nance Expert Dave Ramsey says when how’s the rest of the You also have people Score vs. Building Net Worth. The Amer- you do something stupid and it cost you hard-working everyday people fairing? in these positions who are enthusiastic ican public is sold on the idea that a high money, you pay “Stupid Tax”. I too am a Published statistics states: 78 percent ignoramuses. These are finance profes- Credit Score is a true indicator of good Personal Finance Expert. Like Dave, I’ve of Americans are living paycheck to pay- sionals selling financial products and money management. LIES! It’s suffice it also done some stupid things that have check. The average American couldn’t services they believe in but don’t fully to say that if you’re seeking to win finan- cost me money. How do you think we both cover a $400 minor emergency. The aver- understand. Their respective company is cially, you want to focus on building your became experts in personal finance? Sure, age American saves less than two cents of pushing a particular product. They stand Net Worth, not your Credit Score. Net I got academic training in Finance. I’ve every dollar earned. 78 percent of Ameri- to earn a decent commission on it. They Worth is defined as Assets minus Debt. worked in Banking and Finance my en- cans don’t have a will. The average Amer- sell it to you. They buy it for themselves. Credit Score is a predictive indicator of tire working career. None of that really ican current retirement saving balance I’m reminded of a story I heard on a Per- how well you manage debt. Eliminating prepares you for real world personal fi- is less than their annual salary. Only sonal Finance radio show. The caller was debt is smart. The other is DUMB – (Debt nance management. Spoken more direct- 15 percent of retirees receive more than an insurance agent who had called in to Under Management is BULL). “Get out of ly, none of that really teaches you how to $35,000 annually. 96 percent of Ameri- reveal that he was debt free. As he was Dumb,” and then you’ll begin the process win with money. I consider you to be win- cans age 65 or older retire or die broke. sharing his story, he revealed that he had of getting out of debt and enhancing your ning with money when you’re debt free By the way, those statistics include those Cash-Value Life Insurance with a $900 savings. with mega-money in the bank. Anything of us trained in and working in finance. monthly premium. One of the things he (Damon Carr, Money Coach can be reached at else is an illusion. With little to no personal finance cur- did to create wiggle room in his budget 412-216-1013 or visit his website @ www.damon- Academic training teaches you these riculum in elementary, middle school, was obtain Term Life Insurance, which moneycoach.com.) B2 JULY 15-21, 2020 BUSINESS NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER PNC appoints two members to Executive Committee

The New Pittsburgh Couri- ton Business Journal—serves er has learned that the PNC on the boards of numerous Financial Services Group non-profit and civic organi- Inc., recently announced the zations, including the corpo- addition of two new mem- rate council for the Smith- bers to its Executive Com- sonian National Museum of mittee. Carole Brown will African American History & be Head of PNC’s Asset Culture; the Economic Club Management Group (AMG), of Washington, D.C.; the Wolf and Richard K. Bynum will Trap National Park for the serve in the newly created Performing Arts; the Feder- role of Chief Corporate Re- al City Council; the Philip L. sponsibility Officer. Both ex- Graham Fund Foundation; ecutives will report to Chair- the United Way—National man, President and Chief Capital Area; and the Great- Executive Officer William S. er Washington Community Demchak. Foundation. The announcement was Bynum holds an MBA from made July 7. the Northwestern Universi- Brown, who joined PNC in ty Kellogg School of Manage- 2019 as chief change and risk ment and an undergraduate officer for AMG and Corpo- degree in Political Science rate & Institutional Banking from Florida State Univer- (C&IB), will be responsible sity, and is a graduate of the for leading PNC’s wealth CAROLE BROWN RICHARD K. BYNUM Consumers Bankers Associ- management and private ation Graduate School of Re- banking services for high- and challenging times. As us to even better serve our chair of the Chicago Transit num served as PNC’s Great- tail Bank Management. net-worth and ultra-high-net we continue to drive PNC communities and strengthen Authority Board for 6.5 years er Washington retail market The Greater Washing- worth individuals and fami- forward from a position of PNC as a whole. Though we until 2009; a member of the executive, where he led con- ton regional president role lies, as well as custom invest- strength, we are thrilled to are proud of the work PNC Transition Team for Chica- sumer and small business vacated by Bynum will be ment and advisory solutions further enhance our leader- has done to date to drive go Mayor Rahm Emanuel, sales; and also served as chief filled by D. Jermaine John- for institutional clients. She ship through the appoint- economic empowerment and including as chair of his TIF operating officer for PNC son, executive vice presi- succeeds Michael P. Lyons, ment of Carole and Richard racial equality, we know we Reform Panel; and a mem- Business Banking, where dent and market manager who was instrumental in re- to our executive team,” Dem- must do more at this pivotal ber of the Securities and Ex- he led the sales force oper- of Corporate Banking for cruiting Brown to PNC. Ly- chak said in a statement. moment, and I am confident change Commission Fixed ating platform for hundreds PNC in Greater Washing- ons, also a member of PNC’s On Brown, Demchak said, that Richard will be instru- Income Market Structure of small business bankers ton and Greater Maryland, Executive Committee, will “Carole has distinguished mental as we accelerate our advisory committee from across PNC’s footprint. effective Aug. 1. Johnson continue to lead PNC’s C&IB herself as a results-oriented, progress.” 2017 to 2019. Bynum began his career brings 25 years of industry group. collaborative leader who best Brown, prior to joining She serves on several with PNC in 2005 in its Ex- experience, including his cur- Bynum, who has more represents PNC’s unwaver- PNC in August 2019, served non-profit boards, including ecutive Leadership Program, rent market role leading the than 15 years of experience ing commitment to serving as chief financial officer for the Steppenwolf Theatre holding key roles in the de- large corporate, middle mar- at PNC, most recently as re- our clients. She is a proven the City of Chicago under Company and Metropolitan velopment and execution of ket, and government con- gional president of Greater leader with an incomparable Mayor Rahm Emanuel, as- Planning Council; and also revenue-driving businesses tracting segments. Through- Washington, will lead PNC skillset and a track record of suming that role just as the is a member of The Economic and initiatives; strengthen- out his career, Johnson has Community Affairs and Cor- achieving improved financial city entered the greatest fis- Club of Chicago, the Exec- ing the brand; and enhancing demonstrated a strong com- porate Social Responsibility; performance, and brings new cal crisis in its 149-year histo- utives’ Club of Chicago and engagement of employees mitment to corporate growth Community Development and fresh perspectives to ry. During her four-year ten- The Chicago Network. She while fostering innovation and strategy, leading strate- Banking; and Diversity and our company and to AMG, a ure that commenced in 2015, graduated from Harvard throughout PNC. Prior to gic partnerships and driving Inclusion. In his new role, a business with good momen- Brown worked closely with University with a bachelor’s joining PNC, Bynum served customer engagement. press release provided to the tum as a value-added wealth the mayor and his senior degree in government and as a senior leader with the Prior to joining PNC in Courier read, Bynum also manager and institutional management team to devel- from Northwestern Universi- American Red Cross. His 12- 2005, Johnson held a num- will be responsible for leading asset manager. I am delight- op and implement a series of ty Kellogg School of Manage- year tenure included roles ber of leadership positions the implementation of PNC’s ed and proud to have her join financial reforms to restore ment with a master’s degree as the managing director with increasing responsibil- recently announced $1 bil- our Executive Committee.” financial stability to the city. in management. for disaster response and ity at Bank of America and lion commitment to help end On Bynum, Demchak said, Before her leadership role Bynum is an accomplished emergency communications GE Capital. He is a graduate systemic racism and support “As a senior leader in our with the City of Chicago, executive with nearly 20 for the organization’s Chica- of James Madison Universi- the economic empowerment bank, Richard fully under- Brown had a more than 25- years of executive leadership go chapter and as an opera- ty, with a bachelor’s degree of African Americans and stands and embodies the year career as one of the experience. He was named tions director for the Kosovo in Finance. Johnson also is low- to moderate-income importance PNC places on leading municipal finance regional president of PNC Refugee Operation and Sep- actively engaged in the com- communities. fulfilling our commitments investment bankers in the in Greater Washington in tember 11th effort in New munity, serving as Treasurer “PNC is fortunate to have to our clients, communities country. She gained exten- 2017, previously serving as a York. for the Greater Washing- an excellent team of senior and employees. In this new sive leadership experience in member of PNC’s retail exec- Bynum—who has been rec- ton Board of Trade, and as executives leading our com- role, he will drive meaning- civic and community engage- utive team, where he led the ognized as one of Washington, an Audit Committee member pany during these complex ful change that will allow ment, including serving as company’s Business Banking D.C.’s most influential busi- for the March of Dimes. division. Prior to that, By- ness leaders by the Washing- Black McDonald’s franchise owners should matter

FRANCHISE FROM B1 the 1960s, its token gesture toward BLM edged to the Chronicle that the operators and marginalization of the NBMOA is a have been facing challenges with McDon- sad but apt metaphor for the attitude of its ald’s recently but said they were “attempt- new leadership. ing to work things out.” And declined to “Larry (Tripplett) has been fighting comment any further. for years for equity in the treatment of Neal told the Chronicle the businesses NBMOA members, why is this so hard? were hobbled by a policy that pretty much Why is it taking him years to fight this bat- limited Black owners to stores in inner cit- tle? Why is it taking him years to get relief ies where operating costs were higher and when we all know this is a big problem?” sales were much lower. She said she tried “When you say ‘Black Lives Matter’ what to advance a policy of “bundling” suburban are the policies put in place to know this locations with inner-city locations when is true on the operator side and corporate approached for franchise opportunities by side?” the person said. qualified Black operators to help balance In a December 2019 story in the publi- out the burden. cation Business Insider, it noted that Trip- “I worked to ensure strategic franchise plett said in a letter to McDonald’s east decisions were made to help close cash and west zone presidents that March that flow gaps and was able to achieve that,” “Through no fault of our own we lag be- she said. hind the general market in all measures.” So there are equitable solutions. But the However, he was more conciliatory in a new corporate leadership has not insti- later statement to the publication. tutionalized them despite its proclaimed “The National Black McDonald’s Oper- support for “diversity” even sponsoring a ators Association (NBMOA) is the larg- very high profile ad in support of the Black est African American organization of es- Lives Matter movement. tablished entrepreneurs in the country,” The dramatic ad begins by referencing Tripplett said in a statement. “Our goal Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Alton is to ensure that McDonald’s Corporation Sterling, Botham Jean, Atatiana Jefferson, (McDonald’s) is fully and authentically Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd: engaged in the African American experi- “They were all one of us,” the McDonald’s ence—including African American com- ad reads. “We see them in our customers. munities, employees, vendors, and franchi- We see them in our crew members. We sees.” see them in our franchisees. And this is It added: “These efforts are rooted in our why the entire McDonald’s family grieves. core belief that diversity and a vibrant, in- “It’s why we stand for them and any other clusive, and respectful McDonald’s makes victims of systematic oppression and vious stronger. McDonald’s is proud to create lence.” opportunities for entrepreneurship, eco- “Today we stand with Black communi- nomic growth, and mobility in communities across America. Which is why we’re ties across the country.” donating to the National Urban League “Working in collaboration with McDon- and the NAACP. We do not tolerate inequi- ald’s, we both are committed to delivering ty, injustice, or racism.” world-class hospitality, operational ex- McDonald’s released the ad last month cellence, and increasing guest visits,” the across its social media accounts, while statement read. “We are working together also pledging to donate $1 million to the to make the McDonald’s brand shine by National Urban League and the NAACP. fully integrating African Americans at all The corporation generated total revenue of levels. We both recognize that when we $21.08 billion in 2019. move together; we move further. And we By comparison Yum! Brands which owns are encouraged by our progress.” KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and The Habit The Chronicle reached out to the McDon- Burger Grill pledged $3 million to social alds Corporation for comment however justice efforts led by the NAACP Legal had not heard back by the publication’s Defense and Educational Fund, Ameri- deadline. McDonald’s has publicly stat- can Civil Liberties Union and non- profits ed all of its franchises in all communities fighting for social justice in its hometown have the opportunity to prosper, grow and of Louisville, Kentucky. It generated about achieve their business ambitions. $5.5 billion in revenue last year. One Michigan businessman who did not One insider who did not want to be named want to be named but was familiar with said after all the years of McDonald’s tak- the situation said after a period of tension, ing such immense pride in being known things are slowly improving. “We have as the one major corporation that took a some momentum going in the right direc- chance on investing in the Black commu- tion but we are sitting down and working nity with progressive and innovative out- through our issues.” reach, hiring, and business development (This story is developing. Stay tuned for Su- policies following the urban rebellions of per-sized Racism Part Three in next week’s edition.) NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER OPINION JULY 15-21, 2020 B3 Black women and children’s lives matter

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—While in Bob Law, esteemed radio personal- the midst of proclaiming Black Lives Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. ity and leader of the National Black Matter, (and I agree) I want to make Leadership Alliance, Kwabena Rasuli it clear that all Black Lives Matter, in- of Clear the Airwaves and I have made cluding Black women and children. It every appeal possible to radio stations shouldn’t be necessary to say that, but that play the offending music, to corpo- it is. To MATTER is to have VALUE! Commentary rate thugs that finance radio stations There’s little doubt that Black Lives playing the pornographic language Matter. Thousands have demonstrated that glorifies drugs, violent behavior, their support of that belief in streets rape, murder, that disrespects Black across the nation and, for unnumbered destruction of our youth and persons women and have no regard for chil- reasons, many more support that belief unduly influenced by the media. Dr. dren. This garbage is pumped into the in the privacy of their consciences. Tucker understood that the informa- minds of Black youth throughout the The real challenge for those of us ded- tion we feed our minds is intrinsically day. Many who pay to keep the filth icated to broadening the understand- linked to how our reality is shaped on the radio in Black neighborhoods ing of Black Lives Matter is changing and the conduct we can be expected to are in the fast food industry that helps the concept of BLM from a slogan to a exhibit in our daily lives. If Black Lives to damage the psyche of our youth, way of life. In so doing, we develop the are to really Matter, we must re-ex- as well as damage their health. We’ve ethic of embracing actions and ideas amine how we think of each other and concluded that it’s time to stop talking that encourage and stimulate positive how we treat each other. If Black Lives about it and move to the next step. We Guest Editorial growth in our communities. It means are to really Matter and we are to rise must move to action that takes the rejecting those actions and ideas which above the common discord we see in profit out of those who pay to make produce no tangible positive outcomes the daily intrigues of our nation, we that kind of music possible. in the lives of Black people—especially MUST recalibrate how we value each If you’re a parent, you must listen to GOP state lawmakers’ Black women and children. other and regard each other with the the words used in what your children It could be said that in the ‘60’s, The respect we demand for ourselves. are hearing. Identify the companies Black Panther Party was a precursor It’s time for Black women to bring advertising on the stations playing the attempt to politicize of BLM. Their Ten Point Program par- back our complaint about being offensive music and stop doing busi- allels the safety and physical concerns constantly bombarded with unspeak- ness with them. Money speaks louder for the Black community of today’s able terms in what some call music. than words. pandemic fails BLM Movement. Gangsta rap, when it comes from We’re in a period where we’re work- In the early 1990’S, Dr.C.DeLores Black men or Black women, has no ing hard to Rescue Our Children and Tucker, Founder of the National regard for Black women or children. Heal the Wounds of Circumstance. All Republican state lawmakers should stop their Congress of Black Women, broad- No other women have to endure being of us have a duty to cleanse and clear ened those concerns with a campaign bombarded and brutalized with such our airwaves. fight to end Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf’s pandem- against “gangsta rap”—a campaign filthy language in their music. It’s long (Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President ic shutdown order. that addressed the psychological past the time to change that. of the National Congress of Black Women.) Republican majorities in both chambers, along with a few Democrats, voted early last month to end the emergency disaster declaration that has led to closure of “non-life-sustaining” businesses, Emmett Till, George Floyd bans on large gatherings and orders that people stay at home. Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, generational wake-up calls R-Jefferson, and Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-Centre, sued to enforce their resolution. (TriceEdneyWire.com)—For something in common on which to The dispute went to the state’s highest court, many Black teenagers in my A. Peter Bailey form a united front despite their generation, the JET magazine tremendous differences, it is a which took up the matter without hearing oral photo of 14-year old Emmett Till’s disgrace for Negro leaders not to arguments. Last week, Pennsylvania’s Supreme brutalized body after he was be able to submerge our ‘minor’ Court ruled against the GOP’s efforts to end Wolf’s lynched by White supremacists differences in order to seek a com- was a wake-up call about the mon solution to common problems pandemic shutdown orders. true nature of race in the United Commentary posed by a common enemy.” A divided court ruled that a resolution passed States. The August 1955 horrific At such a meeting, he continued, with mostly GOP votes was a “legal nullity” be- photo gave us a searing memory “There will be no debating, argu- cause it was not sent to Wolf for him to sign or that still lingers in our souls. ing, criticizing or condemning. I Unfortunately, that memory did ant step that the Negro must take will moderate the meeting and veto. not lead us to create a strong is to work passionately for group guarantee order and courtesy for “We express no opinion as to whether the gov- Black national unity organization identity. This does not mean all speakers....It will give you a ernor’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic con- designed to promote and protect group isolation or group exclusiv- chance to present your views to our human rights in this country. ity. It means the kind of group the largest and explosive element stitutes wise or sound policy,” wrote Justice David Hopefully, the White suprem- consciousness that Negroes need in metropolitan New York.” Wecht, who was joined by three others in the deci- acist cold-blooded lynching of in order to participate more mean- It’s critically important that sion. “Similarly, we do not opine as to whether the George Floyd will encourage the ingfully at all levels of life in this current and future generations General Assembly, in seeking to limit or terminate current generation to do what we country. Group unity necessarily of Black folks do a much better failed to accomplish. To create involves group trust and reconcil- job of creating the kind of Black the governor’s exercise of emergency authority, the much-needed Black national iation....This form of group unity national unity advocated by Dr. presents a superior approach for advancing the unity organization, they should can do infinitely more to liberate King and Brother Malcolm. It is welfare of our commonwealth’s residents.” study and learn from the follow- the Negro than any action of indi- the most effective way to honor ing guidelines from committed, viduals. We have been oppressed the memories of Emmett Till, Wecht said allowing the General Assembly to visionary warriors, Dr. Martin as a group and we must overcome George Floyd, Dr. King, Broth- overturn the governor’s proclamation without pre- Luther King Jr. and Brother Mal- that oppression as a group.” er Malcolm and other warriors senting the measure for him to sign or veto “would colm X. In a 1963 letter to 8 civil rights whose lives were taken in the In his book, Where Do We Go leaders, Brother Malcolm stat- war against White supremacy/ be to rewrite our constitution and remove the gov- From Here: Chaos or Community, ed: “If capitalistic Kennedy and racism. ernor from the lawmaking process. Such a view is Dr. King noted: “A second import- communistic Khrushchev can find inimical to our system of checks and balances, a system in which presentment plays a critical role.” We are anxious for the full return of Pennsylva- Letter to the editor nia’s economy, but those who seek to overturn the governor’s shutdown ban are being short-sighted. Wolf has gradually been reopening the state, We stand by this superintendent although a recent small increase in infections in some parts of the state has produced some addi- Dear Editor: Listen, and Learn Tour, more rates, the 4-year cohort gradu- tional restrictions. The Western PA Black Political than 3,500 constituents. Over the ation rate is based on the num- Assembly was founded in 2003 course of 30 days, the Superin- ber of students within a group Health officials in the state’s two most populous with purpose of educating and tendent held 10 community-based who graduate within four years. counties—Philadelphia and Allegheny, comprising empowering the African Ameri- listening sessions, special meet- Graduation rates are reported a Pittsburgh—report rising rates of positive tests can community politically. We are ings with principals, teachers, year later to account for credit writing an open letter to the City bus drivers, administrative staff, recovery programs. Official state for the coronavirus. Officials attribute the increase of Pittsburgh to state our full and regional stakeholders and stu- reports show the District has to people socializing in bars and returning from unequivocal support of Dr. Antho- dents, and an online survey. The maintained growth in the 4-year beach vacations and coronavirus hot spots in oth- ny Hamlet the Superintendent tour, additionally included visits cohort graduation rate since 2015 er parts of the U.S. In response to the recent spike of the Pittsburgh Public Schools. to all 54 District schools, two for all students. Additionally, stu- And we are calling on the Pitts- center programs and a school bus dents of both genders and Afri- in COVID-19 cases in Allegheny County, health burgh Board of Education to re- ride with some of the District’s can American students have had officials are ordering all bars and restaurants in new its contract with our current English language learners. increases throughout the past the county to stop the sale of alcohol for on-site Superintendent. 2. Launched in spring 0f 2017 five years. The purpose of this letter is to the 2017-2022 Strategic Plan: 5. Re-routed school bus routes consumption. lend our voice to the many in Expect Great Things to deliver reliable transportation The pandemic should not be politicized. Republi- this community who believe Dr. 3. Improved the percent of stu- to the District’s most vulnerable can state lawmakers should look at the virus out- Hamlet has built a foundation in dents, since 2015, scoring profi- youths. the last 4 years that has yielded cient or advanced Grades 3 – 8 6. Launched the district-wide break that is occurring in Texas, Florida and other gains for all students, particular- Combined has grown on all three Student Advisory Council to states that reopened too soon. ly for African American students. exams. Mathematics increased ensure that students have a voice The Pennsylvania Supreme Court made the right The most important question from 25.6 percent in 2015 to 28.7 at the highest level. decision to keep the Wolf’s administration’s disas- we must ask of any Superinten- percent in 2020. ELA/Reading 7. Challenged the public to dent is: Are we making progress increased from 42.8 percent in hold him accountable through ter proclamation in place. towards our ultimate goal? That 2015 to 47.3 percent in 2019. making the District more trans- (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune) goal is ALL children are making Science performance increased parent and accessible. The public the academic progress necessary from 46.5 in 2015 to 49.8 percent can now track the progress of to be productive and success- in 2019. Since 2015, the percent the Pittsburgh Public Schools ful adults.” It is indisputable of students scoring proficient through Data Dashboards which that under the leadership of Dr. or advanced Grades 3 – 8 Com- include data related to Key Per- Anthony Hamlet the answer is— bined has grown on all three formance Indicators within the YES. exams. Mathematics increased District such as Algebra 1, 9th The success of the Pittsburgh from 25.6 percent in 2015 to 28.7 Grade Pass Rates, Graduation Public Schools is inextricably percent in 2020. ELA/Reading Rates, Pittsburgh Promise Eligi- linked to the success not only of increased from 42.8 percent in bility, and performance on State Founded 1910 this city, but our region. We know 2015 to 47.3 percent in 2019. Accountability Exams. that many of our children are not Science performance increased The African American communi- reaching their academic poten- from 46.5 in 2015 to 49.8 per- ty of Pittsburgh, will never forget Rod Doss tial. We know at times that there cent in 2019 In ELA/Reading the what happened to our first per- Editor & Publisher will be negative incidents in our percent of students performing manent Black Superintendent Dr. schools, wrongdoing by school of- Below Basic decreased from 19.2 John Thompson, who did not get ficials, and turnover in staff, but percent in 2015 to 13.3 percent in a renewal of his contract. We vow Stephan A. Broadus again the most important ques- 2019. In Science, the percentage never to allow the treatment of Assistant to the Publisher tion remains. of students performing Below Dr. Thompson to ever occur again. While there is still work to Basic decreased by double digits, Let us be perfectly clear, we are be done the African American moving down from 31.7 percent in standing by this Superintendent. Allison Palm Rob Taylor Jr. Jeff Marion community is pleased with the 2015 to 21.4 percent in 2019. The Rick Adams Office Manager Managing Editor Circulation Consultant progress toward all students number of students performing at Johnnie Monroe achieving academic equity. Here the lowest level, below basic, in Richard (Rick) Adams, Co-Convener are but a few examples: grades 3 to 8 Combined also de- WPBPA [email protected] John. H. Sengstacke https://www.ppsstrategicplan. creased, meaning more students Rev. Johnnie Monroe, Steering Com- Editor & Publisher Emeritus org/strategic-plan) are growing academically. mittee Member WPBPA jmon5611@ (1912-1997) 1. Engaged, as part of his Look, 4. Increased the graduation gmail.com (412) 303-3144 New Pittsburgh Courier

B4 CLASSIFIEDJULY 15-21, 2020 www.newpittsburghcourier.com

JOB OPPORTUNITIES JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted Help Wanted

ASSOCIATE INTERNAL AUDITOR RECRUITER SONNY BOY Port Authority is seeking an Associ- Port Authority is seeking a Recruiter ate Internal Auditor to be responsi- to administer employment and recruit- ble for conducting and documenting ment activities for assigned positions. moderately complex audit projects. aintains emploment records Makes material contributions to the generates employment reports/ report of audit findins includin statistics and inputs data into 6 1 9 the development of recommenda- PeopleSoft. tions for the correction of unsatis- Administers validated testing. factor conditions improvement of Essential Functions: operations reduction of costs or •Utilizes PeopleSoft HRMS to do 3 2 0 the increases of revenues. the following: Essential Functions: reate and maintain ob requisi- •Plans and executes moderately tions. comple audit assinments con- nters pplicant Personal ata ducts reviews of portions of exten- ducation icense embership 8 4 5 sive audit assinments prepares Competency and other information. work papers to document audit pro- •Schedule and track applicants and cedures findins and recommen- interviews. dations in accordance with recog- •Maintain applicant records. JOB OPPORTUNITIES LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING nized professional standards. •Track job offers and maintain ap- Help Wanted Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals •Participates in conducting reviews propriate documentation. of assigned organizational and •Process and enter new employee functional activities and contribute information. BLACK STUDIES TEACHER in interpreting and analyzing the ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA •Administers employment The Urban Academy of Greater July 8, 2020 policies and procedures of same. processes for assined positions Pittsburgh Charter School is This may include developing rec- The ffice of the ount ontroller of llehen ount Room 10 ourt ouse includin recruitment testin in- seeking a Black Studies Teacher Pittsburh P will receive separate and sealed ids on Tuesdas and Thursdas ommendations for business pro- terviewing and investigations. Con- position for rades lemen- cess improvements. from 10:00 A.M. until 2:00PM and FROM 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. prevail- ducts background checks on per- tary. Please submit Resume and in local time August 5, 2020 and a representative of the epartment of Public •Participates in the performance of spective candidates which includes ALL three Clearances to special reviews and/or matters of ors will open and read the ids in onference Room 1 Room 10 ount various communications to verify [email protected]. ourt ouse Pittsburh P one half hour later 11:30 o’clock A.M. for the fol- sinificant at the request of nternal education previous and current udit manaement which ma in- lowing: employers. Utilizes the internet to GRASSROOTS ORGANIZER & DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS clude investiatin and attemptin conduct criminal record check and HEALTHY FOOD ACCESS to resolve matters related to the as- SOUTH PARK TRAIL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT motor vehicle record status. En- Anti-hunger advocacy group Just CORRIGAN DRIVE signments. ters and tracks data in PeopleSoft. Harvest is seeking a full-time Grass- •Arranges Port Authority employ- MUNICIPALITY OF BETHEL PARK/ SOUTH PARK TOWNSHIP Extends contingent job offers and roots Organizer and Healthy Corner COUNTY PROJECT No. 5065-0005 ees’ travel (air, train, bus etc.) and maintains appropriate documen- Store Project Coordinator. Just Harvest lodin reservations as requested As a prospective bidder please note the following general Project information tation. nsures that required em- is an equal opportunit emploer that reardin Pre id nformation iddin Requirements and ontract onditions. needed by PAAC employees for ployment activities are satisfactorily values diversity of all kinds. Complete business related travel in compli- See the Proect anual for detailed information responsibilities and instructions. processed before finaliin hirin job descriptions can be found online PRE BID INFORMATION: Purchase and/or view the Project Manual and Draw- ance with the Board-adopted Travel actions. Coordinates and conducts at: and Expense Reimbursement Poli- ins at the ffice of the ontract anaer Room 0 ount ffice uildin new hire orientation. https://www.justharvest.org/jobs/ Pittsburh P. Please adhere to all 1 safet procedures. The non re- c for emploees includin ensur- Job requirements include: To appl for either position send a ing all necessary forms are com- fundable chare for the Proposal and a dis containin the Specifications and •High School diploma or GED. resume a cover letter describin Drawings is $107.00 including sales tax. The Contract Manager will accept only pleted and submitted and compiling •BA/BS degree in Human Resourc- wh ou are an ecellent candidate appropriate documentation to sup- check or money order to the “COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY” in that amount and es anaement ndustrial Rela- and contact information for three WILL NOT ACCEPT CASH OR EXTEND CREDIT. port reconciling credit card state- tions usiness dministration or references as Word or PDF attachments in coordination with Finance Prospective bidders ma request to have bid documents mailed. n additional fee Related field from an accredited ments to [email protected] of 1.0 includin ta for handlin costs for each requested proposal must be personnel for timely and accurate school. Related experience may with “Grassroots Organizer Appli- payment of such expenses paid in advance. The fee must be received at the ffice of the ontract anaer be substituted for the education on cation” or “Healthy Corner Store prior to the mailing of any documents. Job requirements include: a year-for-year basis. Project Coordinator Application” S deree in Finance c- Interested bidders planning to purchase bid documents or attend the public bid •Minimum of three (3) years of ex- in subject line. Or mail to: Just Har- opening are advised to follow Self-Monitoring and Social Distancing guidelines countin usiness dministration perience interviewin recruitment vest 1 Terminal a Pittsburh or directl related field from an ac- when enterin the llehen ount ourthouse or ount ffice uildin. n- and employment process with fa- P 11 ttn “Grassroots Or- terested bidders should also be aware that when entering either the Allegheny credited school. miliarity with union contracting mat- ganizer Application” or “Healthy •Minimum of two (2) years auditing/ ount ourthouse or ount ffice uildin a face mas meetin the uidelines ters. Corner Store Project Coordina- set b the Pennslvania epartment of ealth must be worn at all times. accounting experience. •Demonstrated knowledge of Em- tor.” Deadline: July 31, 2020. No •Experience planning and executing BIDDING REQUIREMENTS: The ount requires prequalification of bidders ployment/EEO laws and practices. phone calls. includin subcontractors as specified in Section 102.01 of Commonwealth of moderately complex audit assign- •Effective and professional commu- ments conducts reviews of portions Pennslvania epartment of Transportation Specifications Publication No.408, nication skills. MAINTENANCE AND COMMUNITY 2020 nitial dition ffective April 10, 2020 on this project. of etensive audit assinments •Demonstrated ability in the use of prepares work papers to document MANAGER POSITIONS Submit Proposal on the supplied form in accordance with the Instructions to Bid- Windows and Microsoft Word. TREK Development is hiring! Open ders and audit procedures findins and rec- Preferred attributes: ommendations in accordance with positions include Maintenance and Specifications include the followin documents with the id FormALONG WITH •Professional in Human Resources Community Manager positions. ONE COMPLETE PHOTOCOPIED SET OF THE PROPOSAL: recognized professional standards. (PHR) or Senior Professional in •Must have the ability to travel to Send resumes to id Securit certified chec or suret compan bond on ounts form to the Human Resources (SPHR) certifica- [email protected] order ofor runnin to the ount of llehen in the amount of five 5% ) percent various Port uthorit locations out tion from the Society for Human of town overnight and occasional of the id as evidence that ou the idder will accept and carr out the conditions Resources Management. of the Contract in case of award. The County will accept only bonds written by evenings and weekends as need- •Prior PeopleSoft experience. LEGAL ADVERTISING ed to perform audits and potentially Surety Companies acceptable on Federal Bonds per the current Federal Register •Demonstrated ability in the use of Mi- Legal Notices Circular 570. Federal Register Circular 570 is available for inspection in the Contract serve on Pennsylvania’s Uniform crosoft Excel. ertification Proram (UCP) Ap- ffice Room 0 ount ffice uildin Pittsburh P 11. peals Committee as part of Port Au- idder ertification of PreQualification lassification and or apacit thority’s Disadvantaged Business ist of Subcontractors Enterprise Program. • Statement of Joint Venture Participation nd oals ttainment ertification (ONLY NECESSARY IF YOU •Effective and professional commu- We offer a comprehensive compen- nication skills. CANNOT MEET THE SPECIFIED MBE AND WBE GOALS.) sation and benefits pacae. nter- • MBE/WBE Subcontractor and Supplier Commitment and Solicitation Sheets Preferred attributes: ested candidates should forward a •Minimum of two (2) years Internal or Sheet Required mount Performed ontractor onFederal Proects cover letter with salar require THE COUNTY MAY REJECT BIDS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THE EXECUTED Auditing experience. Missy Ramsey •Knowledge of Government Audit- DOCUMENTS SPECIFIED ABOVE WITH THE BID FORM. You may not with- Employment Department Estate of Mr.John Earl Pawuk, Deceased of draw your bid for a period of Sixty (60) days after the scheduled closing time for ing Standards (GAS). 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor ance venue oaropolisP 110. s- F P or other related pro- tate No.02-20-02840 s. arol Pawu and Ms. receipt of bids. The County Manager reserves the right to reject any and all bids or Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 waive any informality in the bidding. fessional certification proram that [email protected] aren ehellis odministratries co a would enhance the performance of . Feldman squire and the aw ffice of a CONTRACT CONDITIONS: In accordance with the provisions of the “Pennsylva- EOE . Feldman 1 Fifth venue oraopolis P nia Prevailing Wage Act” of August 15, 1961, P.L. 987 as epartment of abor their internal auditor duties. 110 •Experience using audit software. and ndustr the prevailin minimum wae predetermination requirements as set •Experience with business process BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION forth in the Attachments apply to this Project. improvement (BPI). JOB POSTING/CLASSIFIED AD Student Substance Awareness. hushi The anticipated notice to proceed is September 21, 2020. The project completion The Borough of Wilkinsburg is ac- Pasria at ell rive eford P 100 will be 242 consecutive calendar days the from notice to proceed. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Articles of The ount of llehen hereb notifies all bidders that it will affirmativel ensure cepting applications for the Full- ncorporation were filed with the epartment Time position of Police Record of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylva- that in an contract entered into pursuant to this dvertisement minorit business Clerk for the Wilkinsburg Police nia for a nonprofit corporation which has enterprises / women business enterprises [MBE/WBE] will be afforded the full We offer a comprehensive compen- Department. The hourly rate of been incorporated under the provisions of opportunity to submit bids in response to this advertisement and the County will the onprofit orporation aw of 1. not discriminate against minority and women business enterprises on the grounds sation and benefits pacae. nter- pay is $20.26 per/hour. Position The name of the corporation is Student ested candidates should forward a description and Borough employ- Substance Awareness. of race se color or national oriin in consideration for an award. t is a condition cover letter (with salary requirement application are available at of the bidding process/contract that all responsive bidders / contractors shall follow the minority business enterprises and women business enterprises [MBE/WBE] ments) and resume to: www.wilkinsburgpa.gov. Send LEGAL ADVERTISING application to ilinsbur or- procedures set forth in the project manual/contract documents. Janet Bruner Bids/Proposals Employment Department ouh 0 Ross ve ilinsbur For technical questions contact evin emon ..T. Proect anaer at 10 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor P 11 or info@wilkinsburgpa. 1. For contractin questions contact an Swisher ontracts anaer at 1 Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 gov. Applications also accepted at 0 or . NOTICE TO BIDDERS Chelsa Wagner [email protected] the orouh administrative offices ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS EOE during normal business hours. Ap- Controller The Westmoreland County Hou- County of Allegheny plication period closes at 4:00pm sing Authority (WCHA) is reques- on July 30, 2020.Wilkinsburg ting construction bids for (2) prime LOCAL COLLEGE HIRING residency is required EEO contracts consisting of: Mechanical ACADEMIC CHAIR-SCHOOL OF Amanda Ford, Construction and Electrical Con- DESIGN, V.P. STUDENT AFFAIRS/ Interim Borough Manager struction associated with the follo- ENROLLMENT MGT., wing project: MAINTENANCE TECH/HVAC/ BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG MECHANICAL – VENTILATION ELECTRICAL & HOUSEKEEPING JOB POSTING/CLASSIFIED AD RENOVATIONS POSITIONS The Borough of Wilkinsburg is ac- Located At Pittsburgh Technical College is cepting applications for the Part- VALLEY MANOR – PA 18-06 seein qualified applicants for the Time position of Financial Clerk I MONESSEN, PA 15062 following positions: for the Department of Finance. The Sealed bids will be received by America’s Best Weekly • Academic Chair – School of Design hourl rate of pa is 1. perhour. ichael . ashowich Executive Master’s degree in related discipline Position description and Borough irector until August 3, 2020 at 315 East Carson Street, • V.P. Student Affairs and employment application are available 11:00 A.M. (Eastern Standard Enrollment Management at www.wilkinsburgpa.gov. Send Time) at the office of the estmore- Pittsburgh, PA 15219 asters deree required doctorate application to ilinsbur orouh land ount ousin uthorit 1 preferred 0 Ross ve ilinsbur P 11 South reenate Road reensbur • Maintenance Tech – HVAC/ or [email protected] Applica- P 101. ids will be opened publi- Classiﬁeds 412-481-8302 Electrical – Full-time tions also accepted at the Borough cly at 11:30 A.M. via a zoom video Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – administrative offices durin normal conference call. 5:00 p.m. (8 hour work shift) business hours. Application period Interested respondents can ob- ust be niversal P ertified closes at 4:00pm on July 30, 2020. tain bid documents by downloa- E-mail: [email protected] • Housekeeper – Full-time - Day Wilkinsburg residency is required ding from www.wchaonline.com. Between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – EEO Bidders shall be registered on the 5:00 p.m. (8 hour work shift) Amanda Ford, WCHA – Procurement Database ears prior officeinstitutional Interim Borough Manager to obtain said documents. nquiries Deadline/Closing/ Cancellation Schedule for copy, cleaning experience and plan holder registration can • Housekeeper – Part-time – Evening be emailed to eriks@wchaonline. corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. – AUDIT MANAGER POSITION com. A non-mandatory Pre-Bid 11:00 p.m. (4 hour work shift) RS orth merica nc. sees an Site Inspection / Meeting will oc- Prior officeinstitutional cleanin udit anaer orth merica to wor cur on July 17, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. preceding Wednesday publication experience preferred in Pittsburh P and manae the (E.S.T.). Site location is 331 - 3rd Must pass criminal background check. Internal Audit function for the North Street onessen P 10. Immediate opening at our North America region for compliance with COVID 19 Pandemic Regulations Fayette campus near Robinson Towne internal audit controls. Submit resume will be followed to gain access to Center. Apply to www.ptcollege.edu to: [email protected] the inspection meeting. (Employment with PTC) or www.workforptcollege.com . EOE M/F COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…THE ONLY WAY TO GO! NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS JULY 15-21, 2020 B5

LEGAL ADVERTISING LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals Bids/Proposals SONNY BOY HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS CITY OF PITTSBURGH ALLEGHENY COUNTY INVITATION FOR BID (IFBs) FOR SANITARY AUTHORITY BEDFORD DWELLINGS PUBLIC NOTICE PLUMBING LINES INSPECTION, The Allegheny County Sanitary AMP-02 HACP IFB NO. 600-22-20 Authority (ALCOSAN) is accepting THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF Letters of Interest and Statements THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH will of Qualifications from Professional receive sealed bids for the Bedford Companies who wish to be consid- Dwellings Plumbing Lines Inspec- ered for the following: tion, AMP-02 NEW ACCESS SHAFT MANHOLES The construction work is estimated NEAR A-40 AND M-49 (S-474) to begin in September of 2020. All questions should also be submit- Bid Documents will be available on ted,in writing, to Suzanne Thomas. or about Monday, July 13, 2020 and Interested Parties shall submit an may be obtained from the Housing electronic copy (pdf format) emailed Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s to: webpage, www.hacp.org. Bidders [email protected] may register on the website and Attn: Suzanne Thomas, download the bid documents free Procurement Officer of charge. Electronic versions of The selected firm will provide all the Bid Documents, including bid services necessary to the following: forms, project manual, and draw- •Perform geotechnical borings, re- Attention Courier supporters! ings can be picked up in person, ports, and surveys Monday through Friday from 8:30 •Obtain any necessary permits and a.m. to 4:30 p.m.(Appointment is easements required) at: •Provide a complete package, in- We have the perfect deal for you! Housing Authority of the City of cluding engineered plans and spec- Pittsburgh ifications Development and Modernization •Assist with contract bidding, and Department services during construction 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 ALCOSAN intends to award the Pittsburgh, PA 15219 services to one firm to perform all Jose Solis, Project Manager of the services. All submittals must 412-643-2899 be received no later than 2:00 p.m. A Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit August 14, 2020. It is Consultant’s will be held on Tuesday, July 28, responsibility to ensure the doc- 2019 at 10:00 a.m.: uments have been received. Late Bedford Hope Center, submittals will not be considered. Addi- 2305 Bedford Ave, tional information and instructions may Pittsburgh, PA 15219 be obtained by visiting: https://www. Bidders shall come prepared to re- alcosan.org/work-with-us/planned- view all aspects of the construction and-active-bids site necessary to prepare a bid. ALCOSAN encourages businesses Bids will be received at: owned and operated by minorities, HACP Procurement Department disadvantaged and women’s busi- 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 ness enterprises to submit qualifi- Pittsburgh, PA 15219 cation statements or to participate Attn: Kim Detrick, as subcontractors or suppliers to Director of Procurement the selected Consultant/Firm. The HACP will also accept online sub- Party selected shall be required missions for this Invitation for Bid in to utilize minority, disadvantaged, addition to accepting submissions and women’s business enterprises at our 100 Ross Street office. For to the fullest extent possible. The respondents wishing to submit on- goals of the ALCOSAN’s Minority line, please access the instructions and Women Business Policy are provided in the project manual to listed on the ALCOSAN website submit the bid digitally. at www.alcosan.org. In addition to the electronic submit- Jan Oliver tal above, The Housing Authority of Director, Regional Conveyance the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the bid opening time of 10:00 AM on August 11, 2020 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. We appreciate your commitment to the Courier and Sealed bids may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh’s African American Community. We’d like to Pittsburgh, PA 15219. All bids must be received at the above address no later than August 11, 2020 at offer you a special rate to extend or 10:00 a.m., regardless of the selected delivery mechanism. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF begin a Courier subscription. THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a peri- Call our own od of sixty (60) days subsequent to Allison Palm at 412- the opening of bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH. 481-8302, ext. 136, to extend or be- The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity require- gin your subscription for 6 months ments for Federally Assisted Con- struction Contracts. The Contractor must ensure that employees and ($20), 1 year ($35), or 2 years ($65). applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual prefer- ence, handicap or national origin. Be sure to tell Allison the code word HACP has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in or- for the discounted rates: der to view and download IFB/RFP documentation. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRONGLY ENCOURAGES CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND “SUBSCRIBER SPECIAL” WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS EN- TERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be ob- Once again, we thank you for your tained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1. Caster D. Binion, commitment to the Courier! Executive Director HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH (Promotion ends July 28, 2020) HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Rela- tions Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes. Did you miss the Courier’s special edition, “Celebrating e Graduates,” June 24?

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Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication B6 JULY 15-21, 2020 FORUM NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER e enemy Black Lives Matter: J.C.Watts within We are the Black community Commentary (TriceEdneyWire.com)—At least six Legend has it, during and control to private en- Black children were killed during the the French Revolution, J. Pharoah Doss tities, and BLM demand- Fourth of You Lie weekend. They weren’t Maximilien Robespierre ed increased investments doing anything wrong, just attending overthrew the monarchy in traditional community Impact of COVID-19 a community picnic, or going to visit and beheaded the king for schools. a grandmother, or riding in a car with the benefit of “the people.” Check It Out But if the majority of her mom. One of the children, Secoriea After the execution, the parents in the Black in our community Turner, 8, was an Atlantan, and the day actual people agreed to community are in favor of after the killing, Mayor Keisha Lance institute a new govern- charter schools, who does (NNPA)—Washington, D.C., city attor- Bottoms, emotionally addressed the kill- ment administered by the BLM represent? ney George Valentine was Black, brilliant, ers, “You shot and killed a baby,” she said. people, but Robespierre disagreed and Now, in 2020, after the police killing and fit. But after contracting COVID-19, “This random wild, wild West, shoot announced, “I am the people.” Then of another unarmed Black man, BLM he became so weak, he had trouble mov- ‘em up because you can, it has got to Robespierre beheaded every person has issued a demand that has little ing and even speaking. When it got to stop. It has to stop.” She went on to who opposed “the people’s” will. support in the Black community. BLM the point where he could barely breathe, say, “Enough is enough. You can’t blame That’s a cautionary tale. Some wants police departments defund- George called an ambulance and wait- this on a police officer. You can’t say this believe it captures the warning in ed across the nation and the funds ed on the steps of his house for it to ar- is about criminal justice reform. This is the phrase: The road to hell is paved transferred to the Black community. rive. Every second he waited must have about some people carrying weapons with good intentions. Others believe But this demand is no different than seemed like an eternity. Two days later, who shot up a car with an 8-year-old it demonstrates how power corrupts. I the Black parents’ demand for char- George died. He was 66 and had suffered baby in the car. For what?” believe it warns the people that those ter schools. Since public schools were from diabetes and high blood pressure be- In Washington, D.C., 11-year-old Devon speaking on their behalf don’t neces- failing Black children the majority of fore getting sick with the coronavirus. McNeal, ironically attending an antivi- sarily share their interest. Black parents wanted public schools New research seems to confirm that, olence cookout organized by his mother, In 2016 the NAACP, the nation’s defunded and the funds transferred across the nation, the coronavirus has was shot in the head by a bullet. An 18- oldest civil rights organization, called to entities that better served their disproportionately impacted Black people, year old has been arrested, and there are for a temporary ban on charter school community. Now that BLM is con- with death rates more than twice as high two other suspects. In Atlanta, Philadel- expansion. The NAACP believed no vinced policing in America cannot be as that for any other race. Why is this hap- phia, Chicago, San Francisco and New public money should be diverted to reformed, they want police depart- pening—and can we do anything about it? York, our children are being murdered. charter schools at the expense of pub- ments defunded and funds transferred There are several explanations for the We can get thousands to the streets for a lic schools. Hundreds of Black parents to entities that would better serve the disparity, and most have to do how we live, Black Lives Matter protest. How many went to the NAACP board meeting Black community. where we work, and our underlying health can we get out for Natalia, 7, killed in in Cincinnati to protest against the That sounds inconsistent with BLM’s conditions. There are also factors that are Chicago, or Jace Young, 6, the San Fran- NAACP’s position on charter schools. previous opposition to shifting public within our immediate control that we can ciscan who was killed attending a birth- The protests weren’t surprising; pub- funds, but it is consistent with them all do right now to protect ourselves, but day party? lic opinion polls revealed the majority using the plight of the “Black com- that many in our community are failing In 2019, 692 children (0-11) were killed of Black parents supported charter munity” for their own purposes. The to do. or injured, up from 2014, when 603 were schools. Obviously, the NAACP spoke question that needs to be answered The Centers for Disease Control and killed or wounded. The Gus Violence only for its membership and not on is: What is the Black community? At Prevention (CDC) cite several possible Archive, (gunviolencearchive.org), has behalf of the Black community. One the turn of the century the Equity reasons that Black Americans are more been counting gun deaths since 2013, protester asked, “Where was the Literary Institute defined the Black affected. One is that many of us live in says there were 733 child deaths or in- NAACP when so many public schools community as Black America, mem- more highly populated areas where it’s juries in 2017, the peak year since they was failing our children?” bers of Black America are citizens of more difficult to practice physical distanc- began collecting the data. The murdered A few weeks after the NAACP’s the United States, also citizens of the ing from one another. Many of us also live children are never the intended victims. confrontation with the Black parents, states, counties, cities, and municipal- in multi-generational households where Instead, somebody with more firepower Black Lives Matter released its first ities in which they reside. it’s easier for younger family members to policy agenda. BLM supported the But that definition doesn’t mean spread the virus to more vulnerable el- NAACP’s position on charter schools too much, therefore, like Robespi- derly members. This is especially true for by demanding a moratorium. BLM erre, BLM has announced: We are the lower-income households with smaller liv- Julianne Malveaux stated charter schools represented Black community. ing spaces. an inappropriate shift of public funds Another reason is that a large percentage of African Americans hold frontline service industry jobs as food servers, cleaners, and personal-care providers, Commentary and in fields such as nursing that are all Sports have the potential to unite us considered essential during the pandemic, and they bravely continue to go to work (TriceEdneyWire.com)— homeland flocked to the each day. “Racism runs rampant in Marc Morial New World to claim their One other big factor is that, sadly, our towns and cities neighbor- homesteads. To justify the people also tend to have more underlying than sense, shoots into a crowd gathering large Indigenous pop- violence, Native Ameri- medical conditions—like obesity, diabetes, ing, not caring who they hit. And they’ve ulations. I’ve been told to cans were portrayed as and hypertension-that make us more vul- been killing our children. ‘go back to the reservation’ Commentary savages, less human than nerable. I could write dissertations about why and asked by White people their “civilized” European While many of these factors are diffi- angry and unemployed young men are to search for their stolen counterparts. Their cus- cult to change in the near term, we can running around with guns, settling items on the reservation. toms, their language and do some things immediately to reduce our scores, and securing reputations with The drunk Indian trope the color of their skin set risks. In my own community in Oklaho- no regard for others. But I’m sick of the permeates majority-White them apart, and referring ma, I’ve witnessed many Black folks not sociological explanations and the excus- towns and cities where Natives live in to them with a slur based on skin col- wearing masks or practicing any degree es. I’m with Mayor Bottoms. Enough is poverty. Plains Indians have also faced or served to reinforce the stereotype. of physical distancing in public. A lot of enough. slurs such as ‘prairie n-words’ and our Slurs based on skin color and oth- people just plain aren’t following recom- How do we stop it, though? Devon Mc- women referred to using the deroga- er physical differences are intended mendations to keep themselves and their Neal’s mother, Crystal, is an antiviolence tory term ‘squaw.’ Resistance literally to debase and divide. And right now, families safe. activist. She organized her gathering runs through our veins. Our schools more than ever, we need the power of Let’s be real for a minute. Some of this to promote the end of violence. But she feature mascots such as Braves, sports to unite us. stems from past experiences with govern- could not protect her baby boy since all Warriors, and Indians. Absent are the Athletes have played a unique role in ment that make people skeptical about the antiviolence talk in the world can’t caricatures of mainstream Washington the nation’s rocky and uneven effort what they’re hearing from public officials. protect a child from a fool who is deter- Redskin fandom. We don’t partake in to overcome White supremacy. The For some, it’s the bitter memories of gov- mined to use their weapon to rob, kill, or the ‘tomahawk chop’ or reduce heritage activism displayed by Colin Kaeper- ernment-enforced segregation and other intimidate. to stereotypical chants. Our events nick and Eric Reid, Anquan Bolden racist policies. For others, it’s the fact the How do we dismantle the gun culture usually involve our cultural singing and Malcom Jenkins and their Players young Black men have more negative en- that dominates so many of our inner and traditions. We don’t act a fool in Coalition, is part of a long legacy that counters with the police, and people don’t cities? Will it take new laws? Harsher headdresses—those are sacred symbols includes Althea Gibson, Muhammad want to wear masks and give anyone an penalties for illegal gun use? As Mayor with meaning.”— Northern Cheyenne Ali, Tommie Smith and John Carlos. excuse for mistaking them for criminals. Bottoms said, this is not about the police. writer Angelina Newsom The NFL has made strides in recent For others, it’s that politicians have made Conservatives are right to say we may As the United States undertakes the years, establishing a Social Justice promises to us for decades and have failed lose fewer Black lives to police violence most significant reckoning of racism Initiative to work with the Players to make good. Why trust them now? to street gun violence. It doesn’t matter, in a generation, symbols of White Coalition, and—just last month— Despite all this, please don’t put your because of every George Floyd, Tamir supremacy still loom large. From Con- changing its stance on player protests health at risk. We have to do all we can Rice, and Briana Taylor matters. To lose federate monuments to harmful ste- like Kaepernick’s. Insisting upon a to protect our communities and our loved lives because of police indifference, rac- reotypes in advertising to the names name change for the Washington team ones from being exposed to infection. ism, and evil must be resisted, and the of professional sports teams, American is the logical next step in the League’s First, avoid close contact with people Black Lives Matter Movement does that culture is steeped in it. journey. who are sick. Being in the same enclosed effectively. Black Lives Matter street Eliminating these symbols won’t Dan Snyder, the team’s owner, an- room with somebody who has the virus signs in Washington, D.C., and New York eradicate racism. But we can’t eradi- nounced last week that the organiza- can lead to infection. Second, keep at least speak to that. cate racism unless we eliminate them. tion is conducting a “thorough review” six feet between you and others if you Even as we resist police brutality, The Washington, D.C. NFL team is a of the name. The time for review is have to leave home. People can be infect- structural racism, and other inequities, prime example. over. Native American individuals and ed even if they’re not showing symptoms. we must fight the enemy within, the cal- The United States government has organizations have objected to the Third, wash your hands or sanitize them lous young men who engage in gunplay authorized 1,500 wars, attacks and name from the beginning. Organized often and for at least 20 seconds. Also on public streets when anybody could raids on the indigenous people of the efforts to change the name have been avoid touching your face, mouth, and eyes be walking by. How to get through to land it occupies. An estimated five going on for more than 50 years. As with unwashed hands. them? million to 15 million indigenous peo- National Congress of American Indi- I know the advice about wearing masks Cornel West once described these ple lived in North America in the 15th ans president Fawn Sharp said, “This is a tough one for many folks, but perspec- young men as nihilistic, believing that century. By the late 19th century, few- moment has been 87 years in the mak- tives have changed during this pandemic. life has no intrinsic value, simply not car- er than a quarter-million remained. ing, and we have reached this moment So, cover your mouth and nose with a ban- ing about social norms and moral values. The motive behind the systemat- thanks to decades of tireless efforts by dana or other face covering if you have to Anyone who would shoot a deadly weap- ic slaughter and removal of Native tribal leaders, advocates, citizens, and leave home. The mask provides some pro- on into a crowd has no regard for human Americans was land. Europeans who partners to educate America about the tection for others in case you’re infected life. And perhaps one could argue that were barred from owning land in their origins and meaning of the R-word.” and don’t know it. these young men do not value human life Finally, be sure to get medical help if because human life has not valued them. you have any flu-like symptoms or have But I’m sick of making excuses for socio- trouble breathing, persistent pain in your paths, even as I understand the forces chest, a fever, or a dry cough. that created them. These shootings have As I write this, The Heritage Founda- to stop! tion’s National Coronavirus Recovery I love looking at Black children, look- Commission, of which I’m a member, is ing at their small, partly unformed faces, wrapping up its final report offering rec- and wonder what kind of adult they will ommendations to help us all recover from evolve into. Too many gun-toting crim- this pandemic. The commissioners are inals ensure that some of our children deeply concerned that COVID-19 has hit won’t have the opportunity to grow up. minority communities so hard and are Class differences among African Ameri- urging medical researchers to look into cans mean that some fall asleep to the how we can prevent this disproportionate sounds of gunfire, while others know impact in the future. shooting from television. When we say The commission is also recommending it takes a village to raise a child, what ways that our churches and community happens to the villagers that would rob institutions can be a positive force for en- a child of life? couraging people to take preventative ac- We need to call these villains out. We tions to stop the spread of COVID-19. need to ask their associates to call them I’m hopeful that our nation will conquer out. Enough is enough. When you say this disease and that together, we will Black Lives Matter, when you march and emerge from this chapter in our history chant, think of 11-year Devon McNeil, stronger than before. But ultimately for 6-year Jace Young, eight-year 0ld Seco- that to happen, the cure must start with riea Turner, or seven-year-old Natalia us. Wallace. Their Black lives matter, too. (J.C. Watts is founder and chairman of J.C. Watts What must we do to protect our children? Companies, chairman of Black News Channel, (Julianne Malveaux is an author and econo- and a member of National Coronavirus Recovery mist.) Commission.)