“We have had a wonderful collaboration with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra,” says Lois Clark, the music teacher at Kelly Elementary School in Wilkinsburg.

So, no wonder she’s excited about the PSO presenting a concert, “A Celebration of Music and Community.” On Friday, May 24, the concert will be held at Wilkinsburg High School at 7 p.m. In addition, musicians from the orchestra will visit Wilkinsburg district schools, including Kelly, to provide demonstrations.

The program has meant a lot to the school district. Clark has been involved with the partnership for 10 years.

“We have just definitely benefited from it because our music programs here have thrived since we began this effort with them back in 2003,” she says.

If you haven’t made up your mind about going to the “Celebration” Clark assures everyone, “we come and we have an absolute magical evening of music, incredible, incredible music. The talent that just flows from those instruments - you can’t put a price on it. Anybody and everybody that leaves there feels better than when they walked in.”

To find out more about PSO go to www.pittsburghsymphony.org.
Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com

The lead-up to the May 21 Pittsburgh Democratic Mayoral Primary has been packed with forums and debates hosted by various factions of city voters in an attempt to choose the best of four candidates to face Republican Josh Wander for a four-year term as leader of the city.

            Some topics were wide ranging, while others had a narrow focus on a specific area. Yet, overall, after each candidate meeting, discussions continued on Facebook, on Twitter, in chat rooms and actual rooms, about the questions that weren’t asked and answered. We collected some of these questions, and asked all four Democratic candidates to provide their answers in writing.

            Community activist AJ Richardson did not accept the invitation, but below are the answers from City Council Representative Bill Peduto, former State Auditor General Jack Wagner, and State Representative Jake Wheatley.

•  Elwin Green, a resident of Homewood, journalist and publisher of Homewood Nation (Homewood15208 - Homewood Nation), an "experiment in citizen journalism" that focuses on the Homewood Community:

            What is the mayor's job description?

Bill Peduto: Ultimately, the job of a mayor should be to serve as a facilitator of positive change, a bridge to opportunities. A mayor wears many hats such as public safety director-in-chief, public works director-in-chief, and parks and recreation director-in-chief. However, he is ultimately a facilitator who resolves conflicts, helps connect neighborhoods and organizations to opportunities, and helps provides forums where open discussions can be held to pave a path toward a better future for all city residents. The mayor is also the chief advocate on behalf of the city, which includes public schools, on the state and federal levels.

Jack Wagner: No answer provided.

Jake Wheatley: Beyond the requirements laid-out within Article II of Pittsburgh’s Home Rule Charter (http://www.pittsburghpa.gov/cityclerk/homerule), the mayor must assume responsibility for increasing the quality of life for all of the City’s citizens. This can be achieved by providing and efficient and adequate distribution of resources to ensure safety and equal opportunity.

            I also believe the job requires the mayor to be the chief promoter of our city, the lead visionary and a connector and coordinator of resources to assist our citizens, organizations, and businesses in progressing positively for the greater good of our city and region.


•  Sharene Shealey, a chemical engineer who resides in North Point Breeze with her three children, all students in Pittsburgh Public Schools, and is President of the Pittsburgh Board of Public Education:

            What can the city do to help ensure the safety of our children on their way to and from school, particularly in areas with higher crime rates? Also, how do you see the city and the school district working collaboratively to get to a place where a Pittsburgh Public Schools graduate has real job opportunities within the city of Pittsburgh?

Wagner:  As Auditor General, I was one of the first officials in the state to expose holes in school safety programs. I will work aggressively with our public safety and school officials to combat violence in and outside of schools for students. I will expand training programs for crossing guards and ensure the neighborhoods that have hot spots of crime receive more attention during the hours before and after school from the police and other public safety groups. I also want to engage more community volunteers to be active in the community during these times.

            Countless studies show that when you provide rewarding alternatives for young people they are more likely to stay out of trouble. Our city must invest in our future, not only by building homes and skyscrapers , but also by building up our young people by providing employment and internship opportunities for Pittsburgh’s young people… this is their city too. We can partner with corporate and nonprofit communities to aid in providing the resources and opportunities. We must work with the school district and youth-serving organizations to develop a comprehensive citywide network of after-school and recreational programs to provide our youth with positive alternatives to delinquency. I also want to establish a comprehensive internship network with existing internship programs, local universities, the private sector, non-profits and other stakeholders to connect local high school and college students to experiential learning and professional networking opportunities.

Wheatley: First we will begin with a Safe Streets campaign to target the routes that are students are walking to make sure they are well-lit, secure environments. All structures within these zones would be a part of our safe streets program and would have strict maintenance requirements for vacant and blighted properties.

            We are the only campaign in this election that can point to real examples of what we are doing currently. Programs such as My Brother’s Keeper and Mentors are working with high school students and others in challenged neighborhoods to create skills and gain a pay check for their futures. I would work to bring the private sector, non-profit community, and the district together and identify the growing sectors of our region, ask stakeholders to envision a real working partnership where industry can utilize career and technical schools as their laboratories and where our students and school district has additional resources. Together we could build true learning spaces that are creative, innovative and career preparatory.  

Peduto: I will be a strong advocate for public education as Mayor and I will work closely with the school board and the superintendent to find ways that we can collaborate to make Pittsburgh a better place for students and families.

            I take the issue of safety in schools and to and from schools very, very seriously.  I held a special session of council earlier this year to bring together experts on public safety with principals from schools all over our city to discuss how city public safety officials and school administrators could work together to make some positive changes.  One simple way that we can improve safety is to identify areas where we need more crossing guards and better equip our current crossing guards.  Our crossing guards aren't even given radios so that they can communicate in the case of an emergency.  Simple changes like that could make the difference in a public safety emergency.  

            Finally, we need to work together to create universal early education to make sure that our kids are on the path to being Promise-ready when they start school, not to wait until they are in high school.  Investing in early childhood education is the single most powerful investment we as a city can make in our children's lives and as Mayor I intend to make this happen.

•  Yvonne English Roebuck, Director of Marketing and Talent Attraction at Vibrant Pittsburgh, an organization that works to promote, develop and retain a diverse workforce in the Pittsburgh region, and to promote Pittsburgh as a welcoming place of opportunity: 

            Given that our city’s economic prosperity is also tied to our city’s ability to grow and given that the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the nation are also among the most diverse places; what would you do, as Mayor, to use your position and media platform to lead regional efforts that ensure Pittsburgh is a welcoming and inclusive place for people of all backgrounds?

Wheatley: Too many of our diverse populations of current city residents are living below the poverty line, are not fully involved with our governance, and have not seen their fair share of the region’s economic resources. I would push to change their life conditions while simultaneously working to build a truly regional intermodal transportation system. I would create model contracting language that would provide real economic fairness and opportunity for minority and women owned firms to compete and I would open our city up and celebrate its wonders of diversity of thought, color, and culture in the summer by hosting cultural related themed weekend festivals that would serve as our outward promotion and support of the various differences in our region that make us unique and truly the most livable city.

Peduto:  I think there are some very achievable short and long term steps we can take to make Pittsburgh an attractor for new immigrants.  Pittsburgh is a city of immigrants - my grandparents came here from Italy to build a better life for themselves just like immigrants who come here today.  We need to make sure that the pathways to the middle class that existed when my grandparents came here exist for our new neighbors who are coming from places like Central and South America, Asia, and Africa.  I have already proposed a couple of ideas for how we can become a more welcoming city on my website (http://www.billpeduto.com/2013/02/27/84-city-of-immigrants-welcoming-a-new-generation-of-immigrants-to-pittsburgh/).  From the city government side I'd like to see us translate our city website into other languages to make city services more accessible to new immigrants.  I'd also like to work with the URA to create small loans and grants targeted towards entrepreneurs who want to start their own businesses with a special emphasis on new immigrants and resources to help them.

            I also think we need to do a much better job of promoting Pittsburgh internationally and reaching out directly to potential entrepreneurs and new residents.  For example, we should strengthen our partnerships with our existing sister cities and create new ones.  These are easy relationships that we can build on to bring in new investment and new people to create a more vibrant Pittsburgh.

Wagner:  Pittsburgh has grown tremendously in recent years to be much more diverse - but there is much work to be done to make all communities and populations feel more included and better represented by their government. From the bully pulpit, I will promote Pittsburgh as a city to attract even more new residents from around the world. I will ensure we have better representation of minority populations - and majority populations like women - in my administration and on boards and commissions. I will also create advisory panels for cultural and minority populations, including African-Americans, LGBT, Asian Americans, Indian Americans, and many more.

•  State Representative Ed Gainey, whose 24th Legislative District includes many neighborhoods in the city's East End as well as Wilkinsburg and Aspinwall, was the first African-American to serve as Chair of the Pittsburgh City Democratic Committee. Raised in East Liberty, Gainey is now a resident of the Lincoln-Lemington neighborhood:

             It's really a two-fold question: One, How are you going to get the police [employment] counts up to where they respectfully should be to appropriately police the City of Pittsburgh; and two, What are you going to do to build police-community relations?

Peduto: We need to completely reexamine police operations and that absolutely includes staffing levels.  I think the search for a new police chief and the community criteria that we will work with leaders from every community to develop will be a critical component in how to transform the department. We need a chief who has a proven track record of creating bonds of trust with communities with whom trust has deteriorated over the years. And we need a chief who understands that putting more power in the hands of the neighborhood zone commanders is the best way to tailor the activities of the police to the need s of each community. We need our police out in our neighborhoods on foot and on bikes talking to residents, developing relationships with the community, and keeping eyes on the street.  I look forward to working with you and with residents of every neighborhood to restore the bonds of trust with our police department.

Wagner: I will focus new recruitment strategies on two populations: veterans and students in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. With many veterans coming home as wars abroad wind down, I want to create a recruitment and training program to get them onto the force. They have the tactical skills and character traits that will help grow and improve the Pittsburgh Police. Additionally, I want to create a pilot program - to be expanded - at various Pittsburgh Public middle and high schools to start getting young women and men in city schools thinking about joining the force and the benefits of serving their communities.

            I believe our police officers are community engagement officers. They are better at their jobs when people trust them, and the best way for someone to trust you is for them to know you. I want to revive the community oriented policing strategy of officers becoming deeply engaged in the communities they serve. I want every officer to become deeply engaged in the communities they serve visiting local schools, neighborhood meetings, and other community gatherings. Relationships with the police will save lives and strengthen communities… its a proven fact.

Wheatley:  To attract more diversity to our police department as well as other city departments we must first support and create an environment that promotes our current diverse officers and city employees.  The current climate within the department is one that far too many women and minorities officers feel unprotected and quite frankly, under attack.  I would immediately change that and professionalize the process for advancement and promotion.  Taking from my military background I would make the process for promotion clear, transparent and open and target resources to recruit veterans, many of who are minorities and women.  More importantly, I would change the 60 credit hour requirement from having to have it when you are hired to having it within the first four years on the force.

            I want to take our departments back and create a people centered structure.  I will implement a Police athletic league which would have each zone assign two-four officers to this task where they will be stationed within a neighborhood recreational center and they would be responsible to work with that zone's neighborhood organizations to support recreational events.  This would improve the community relations win the various neighborhoods, it would boost positive images of our officers and the force in general, it will provide opportunity for more recruitment of potential diverse populations of people and finally it will provide other safe and nurturing places for our children which will in turn support a reduction in crime and violence.  

•  Garrett Cooper, a Pittsburgh native and former Americorps Volunteer who works as Enterprise Manager at the Forbes Funds, a major supporting organization for numerous non-profit organizations throughout the Pittsburgh region:

            The big question we are wrestling with [in the non-profit sector] is that we are facing so many financial hardships right now, more than we ever have before. From a "services" standpoint, we are busier than we have ever been before, yet this comes at the same time when government funds are not only being cut, but governments are now looking to us, particularly at the city and county level to shore up their fiscal situations. We're facing a great deal of financial pressure right now, with the economy and drawbacks in government funding. Why is the city increasing the pressure on us right now, and if we need to help shore up various budgets, what would you propose we do to help? Do you understand the pressures we face, and do you support placing additional financial burdens on non-profits?

 Wagner:  I do not support expanding any pressure or undue effort on or from true non-profits and charities. There are a handful of profitable non-profits who not only should, but can, afford to contribute more to City services. The truth is that the large majority of non-profits give more back than they take away.

Wheatley:  The federal government has now incentivized states and cities to create social impact bond opportunities to improve social services. These are partnerships between investment firms, government and non-profits that are designed to save taxpayers money, turn a profit for the investment firm and utilize specialized non-profit organizations to target the needs of the community. With exact performance metrics in place, my administration will seek out to create these partnerships in areas that move us toward eradicating poverty such as afterschool programs and reducing unemployment and underemployment.  

Peduto: I understand the intense pressure that our nonprofit service providers are under right now and the devastating impact of cuts at the state and federal levels.  I do what I can to financially support organizations like yours through my small City Council allocation but I know that it is not enough and that we need to find ways that we can work together better with you as a city government.

            First of all, you are under no threat from my administration.  Nonprofits who are clearly purely public charities have nothing to worry about.  It is only those select few that cannot meet the basic HUP test that will be asked to pay taxes.  We need to completely change the way we think about the relationship between nonprofit service providers and city government.  Instead of coming to you hat-in-hand for cash every year we need to develop long-term strategic plans and shared-services models that can take the place of cash payments.  I know that 99.9 percent of the nonprofit service providers in our region are doing their level best — many of them more than they can really afford to do — to contribute to Pittsburgh, and I will be a partner with you as we move forward towards a sustainable city budget, sustainable nonprofit budgets, and a better city for everyone.

•  Emily Fero, an honor roll student at Oakland Catholic and a politically-aware but not-yet-eligible-to vote sixteen-year-old daughter of this reporter:

Why do you want to do this? Aside from loving Pittsburgh, what makes you think you would be more help to the city doing this than anything else?

 Wheatley:  I want to be our city's next Mayor because for far too long we have allowed our city to grow without making sure that the growth happened for all our citizens and neighborhoods.  When I look back on my legislative history in the PA General Assembly it has been marked by my efforts to champion the causes of inclusion, economic fairness, and education.  If we are to truly become the city we all can be proud of then we must take a real stance and challenge the current status quo attitude, bring those at the bottom of our economic story up and change our current politics and government of divisiveness and in-fighting.  I want to be your Mayor because you deserve a government that places you and your concerns above my own.  I have stated this throughout the campaign that this election isn't about the candidates who are running. It's about each of you who will be participating in this election on May 21st.

Peduto:   I graduated from high school right as Pittsburgh's economy was collapsing.  Those were dark days for our town and many of us left and have never come back because there were no opportunities here for us any longer. I'm running for mayor because I believe in Pittsburgh and I know that we can be one of best cities in the country if we make the investments we need to make it right. I want those people who left Pittsburgh in the '80s and '90s to move back because it is a great place to live. I want young people from New York City and Washington, D.C. and Boston to come to Pittsburgh because something is happening here that isn't happening anywhere else in the country. But most of all I want the people who are living in poverty and have been forgotten by past political leaders to have the opportunities that they need to find good paying jobs, provide for their families, and become a part of the middle class.  Pittsburgh can never truly be great until we are One Pittsburgh and the divisions of race and class are finally mended.

            I am so excited for what is in store for us over the next 10 years and I want to help guide us to become the city I know we can be.

Wagner:  Being term-limited as Auditor General, I could have left and done many things but I was not ready to leave public service. I have long dreamed of serving my hometown as Mayor. I was born here, raised my family here, and want to continue to see Pittsburgh grow, prosper and improve for my kids. I bring a unique combination of skills, experience, and perspective to this race and to the Mayor's office. I love Pittsburgh but feel City Government has failed to keep pace as the rest of our city has grown. I hope to bring an outside, innovative perspective to the Mayor's office so the people of Pittsburgh can be proud of their government and trust in it once again to work for them.    

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

There's no question about the lack of diversity in the judges chambers in Allegheny County.  The disparity of African American and female judges is evident when you look at the ballot box for the May 21st primary election. Out of the 13 candidates running for Judge in The Court of Common Pleas, only one candidate is  African American and 5 are women.  Candidate Rosemary Crawford is adding to the diversity of the primary ballot.  As an African American female attorney and certified mediator, Crawford is bringing over 20 years experience to the race. 

Judges in the Court of Common Pleas hear civil cases and trials and have jurisdiction over all cases.  Recently, Crawford spoke to UrbanMeidaToday's Allegra Johnson about what it means to serve Allegheny County and why it's so important to pay it forward. 

Allegra Johnson:  You have a very accomplished resume.  Why have you decided to run for judge now?

Rosemary Crawford:  Thank you for acknowledging my experience, I appreciate that.  I was inspired to run at this time; being a judge is something that I've always wanted to do.  I think I can make a difference.  I've always been committed to public and community service.  Initially, I was going to run in 2015 and I was talking to one of my sorority sisters [Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc.] and she asked me why was I going to wait until 2015 when I could make an impact now.  The fact that there are no African American's running for judge and out of 43 judges in the county only 3 are black and only one is a women.  So I could think of no better time than now to run.

AJ:  How will your background in mediation impact you as a judge?

RC:  Part of being a certified mediator is training on human nature and conflict resolution and understanding people.  I think anything that enhances my ability to understand people that I'm working with is going to make me a better judge.  It's very important for me to be fair and impartial with everyone I deal with.  And when I see a young man come into court with baggy pants, an earring and tattoos; I understand that the way they look is a fashion statement.  The way they look has nothing to do with that persons character or integrity. 

AJ:  You mentioned that there are very few African American and female judges in Allegheny County.  Why do you think there is such a disparity when it comes to women and people of color?

RC:  I must say that I am not an experienced politician.  I can't really answer that question.  I really don't know the politics behind that.  I don't know what type of community support that candidates are receiving.  I can say that if people care about the judges and they want someone who is fair and impartial; the only way that can happen is by the ballot box. 

AJ:  Why do you think it's so important for communities of color and undeserved communities to vote in every election?

RC:  It's imperative.  Whoever is elected in office, affects the community on a daily basis in terms of services provided.  In Pennsylvania, there are many services that are provided in one administration and then won't be provided in another administration.  If the people don't come and vote on Tuesday; Wednesday it's too late when they realize services are cut and programs are gone.  I remember being in the first grade and integrating a school in Mississippi, because a judge ordered that it had to be enforced.  I remembered that if that judge hadn't stood up and and said it had to be done, who knows what would have happened?  People fought and died for the right to vote.  So if you don't vote, it's disrespectful to the blood that was shed for the right. 

AJ:  Why is it so important for you as a woman of color to help the next generation of female lawyers and judges?

RC:  I definitely think we all need to pay it forward.  I have helped men and women of all races because someone helped me.  When I was a young girl and dreamed of being an attorney and a judge, someone helped me.  I picked up the phone and called a stranger and they helped me.  Anytime someone reaches out to me for help, I am always willing to help, I think it's our obligation.  We have a civic responsibility to help each other and be supportive. 

AJ:  Is there anything else you would like to add? 

RC:  I just want to say that people might not remember by name but I am number 1 on the ballot.  I am a qualified, highly recommended attorney who has been practicing for 23 years.  I really feel that I can make a difference in our communities. 

For more information about Rosemary Crawford visit:  http://www.rosemarycrawfordforjudge.com
allegra@urbanmediatoday.com

“The centerpieces of Bill Peduto’s ad campaign have distortions about Jack Wagner’s record and his own,” says a press release announcing Mayoral candidate Wagner’s event to “set the record straight.”

            Wagner addressed members of the media Thursday in the parking lot of the Fraternal Order of Police Headquarters on Banksville Road in the South Hills, near his own campaign headquarters.

            “While the City of Pittsburgh is involved in a Federal investigation of the Mayor’s office and the Police Bureau,” Wagner says, “the last thing we need is a member of City Council running for Mayor misrepresenting the facts as it relates to the Police Bureau in this city.”

            Wagner calls Peduto “a prominent city official,” and says that his television ads are “virtually” all lies.

            “Mr. Peduto said he has saved police officers’ jobs in the city of Pittsburgh, but in his tenure on City Council, the number of police jobs has fallen from 1098 to 862,” Wagner says. “If my math is right, that’s a 20 percent reduction, and 236 less police officers.”

            The Peduto ad claims the Councilor took a reduction in his own salary to save jobs of officers scheduled to be laid off due to budget cuts, but, Wagner says, “that [cut] amounted to $2200 [a rounding of the actual figure the Wagner campaign claims to be $1073 for each of two years], not enough to even pay for the ‘false’ police officers he had in his ads.”

            “The people of Pittsburgh need to know the truth,” Wagner says, especially in light of the investigation.

            In response, the Peduto campaign says he voted in favor of a bill in September of 2003 to create a program for city employees to voluntarily return two percent of their salary for the remainder of 2003. This resolution stipulated that funds derived from these voluntary cuts would go toward regular salaries of employees whose jobs would otherwise be cut by budget constraints.

            They quote Peduto as saying he was made aware of the potential for such an option by an officer from the city’s Narcotics Bureau as a way to save 102 jobs. He is quoted as saying “It’s a good way to show we’re all on the same team and we need to do this.”

            Fraternal Order of Police President Mike LaPorte says the FOP would like the citizens of Pittsburgh to know their police officers are professionals, and are very dismayed at the ad in which Peduto walks along a street with actors posing as police officers (although state law prohibits actual uniformed officers from participating in campaign events).

            “We, as an organization, don’t like to be brought into the political arena as pawns,” LaPorte says. “We have contacted Mr. Peduto personally, as well as through his staff, to sit down and discuss these ads, and, quite frankly, they refused to do so.”

            “We are also dismayed by his misrepresentation that somehow he slashed his salary to save police jobs,” LaPorte says. “The fact of the matter is, in 2003, we lost 103 officers due to layoffs. Since Mr. Peduto took office, we are down 20 percent, although our calls to service have not gone down, our city’s population has not gone down. Our officers are forced to do more work with less officers.”

            “We have not endorsed Mr. Peduto in this campaign, and we do not have a working relationship, or any relationship, with him.”

            Wagner says that he will make sure the numbers in police ranks are not lessened, and, “when council allocates a certain number of resources for police officers, we’re going to fill those jobs, which has not happened in the last decade. The numbers that are budgeted don’t end up being real numbers.”

            “I am also committed to increase the numbers. More importantly, I’d like us to allocate police officers and manage them better. We don’t need police handling checks. There are things we need to address in the management of the Police Bureau.”

            Wagner says police employment is not the only distortion in the Peduto ads.

            “He has said I cut Meals On Wheels as an elected official,” Wagner says, calling the claim a blatant lie. “He has said that I have cut health care, and that also is an absolute blatant lie.”

            “I have been one of the strongest advocates as a State Senator to increase health care, to increase services to the elderly and the poor,” Wagner says. “As Auditor General, [I worked] in terms of saving resources so that more resources can go to those who need them.”

            “These are the facts.”

            Peduto has changed the text of his advertising to say that Wagner’s position in alignment with state Republicans on the 2011 budget “logically means that fewer dollars would have been available to spend on all kinds of programs, including Meals On Wheels.”

            Peduto’s campaign calls Wagner’s accusations “an act of desperation,” saying that Wagner himself voted for automatic pay increases which raised his own salary by more than $17,000, and his pension by 50 percent.

            “How many jobs did this save? Zero,” they say.

            Wagner claims that during his four years as Auditor General, he never took a pay raise, and, “I wrote checks back to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and it was far greater than the $2000 Mr. Peduto claims to have saved the City of Pittsburgh.”

            Wagner says he did vote for a pay raise “18 years ago,” in 1995, but that he secretly opposed the “midnight pay raise” bill five years ago, just prior to taking office as Auditor General, and was the sole reason “the bill never ran.”

            Asked to comment on voter reaction to negative advertising on both sides, as well as anti-Peduto advertising from Current Mayor Luke Ravenstahl’s Committee for a Better Pittsburgh, Wagner says, “I have built a career on integrity. When I speak, I speak the truth. Unfortunately, I have an opponent who’s untruthful even about himself. Voters should be concerned because there’s a candidate in this race who’s lying through his teeth.” 

            On learning that a Peduto supporter, Reverend Maureen Cross Bolden, addressing the crowd at an earlier rally held by Peduto supporters to denounce the negativity in the campaigns, said “Every time you vote for Jake Wheatley, you’re giving a vote to Jack Wagner,” Wagner says, “there’s another blatant lie.”

            Wagner says Wheatley is an asset to Pittsburgh, particularly in his current position as State Representative. “How a statement like that about Jake Wheatley [could be made] and [you] think that in the future you could work with him, is beyond my understanding.”

            Wheatley’s spokesperson, Daren Berringer, says the statement comes “as somewhat of a surprise.”

            “We respect Mr. Peduto’s surrogates, and respectfully disagree with their mischaracterization of the facts of this race,” Berringer says. “Wheatley has been the only candidate in the race for Mayor who has had the courage to address the issue of poverty, and has done it while also being the only candidate in this race to have never run a single negative advertisement.”

            Berringer says voting for Wheatley is “a vote for economic fairness. If Mr. Peduto is afraid to see a day in which all Pittsburghers are realizing prosperity, then we understand why he would instruct his surrogates to {make] such misleading comments.”

            Peduto did not attend the morning rally, which his campaign spokesperson, Sonya Toler, says the campaign coordinated on behalf of those who spoke there, “but who wanted to speak on their own.”

            Wheatley’s polling percentage has hovered at around 8 percent, compared to nearly 40 percent each for Wagner and Peduto. His campaign received a $10,000 donation from Ravestahl’s PAC, which they have called “a surprise.”

            Wagner, Peduto, and Wheatley also face opposition in the May 21 Democratic Primary from community activist AJ Richardson. The winner will face Republican Joshua Wander in the November General Election to determine the next Mayor of Pittsburgh.

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

The Obama Administration has released a plan to treat drug addiction as a public health issue, not just as a criminal justice issue. It is being touted as the most significant expansion of drug treatment in America in generations.

Tene’ Croom talked to Rafael Lemaitre, Communications Director for the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, about what the administration calls the 2013 National Drug Policy Strategy.

“Drug addiction isn’t some moral failing on the part of the individual,” Lemaitre says citing “groundbreaking” research conducted by neuroscientists at the National Institutes of Health.

NAACP President Ben Jealous weighed in on the plan, “This Strategy demonstrates that the Obama Administration is serious about criminal justice reform.”

Highlights of the Strategy-

 

·         Promotes national and community-based programs - including the Drug-Free Communities Support Program - that are evidence-based and work to prevent substance use in schools, on college campuses, and in the workplace;

·         Works to expand programs like Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), which can help reduce adverse health and safety consequences from substance use;

·         Details actions to implement the Affordable Care Act, which – for the first time in history – ends discrimination against people with substance use disorders by requiring insurance companies to cover treatment for substance use disorders as they would for any other chronic disease; and

·         Works to expand treatment and reentry services for those incarcerated.

For more details about the Strategy go to www.wh.gov/drugpolicyreform.       Photo:www.times-standard.com 
Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com

Even as she recovers from laryngitis; with low and raspy speech, it's clear to hear the passion and dedication in the voice of Alichia Parker, founder of the Northside Pulse Association.  Parker is an educator, dedicated to helping bridge the gap between academics and athletics for Pittsburgh-area kids.  Along with her friend and colleague; Eugene Goodwine, Parker started the Northside Pulse Association to help at-risk youth excel on and off the playing field. 

Recently, The Northside Pulse Association held a fundraiser to get the word out about their organization and raise money for programs to positively impact the lives of kids who are sometimes  forgotten and lost in the school system.  Former Pittsburgh Steeler and Pittsburgh native Mike Logan joined Parker and her organization for the fundraiser.  UrbanMediaToday's Allegra Johnson spoke to Parker and Logan about the importance of bridging education and athletics and why it's so important to  help young people succeed in academics, athletics and in life. 

Allegra Johnson:  What is the Northside Pulse Association?

Alichia Parker:  The Northside Pulse Association was founded by myself and Eugene Goodwine to bridge the gap between academics and athletics.  [We recently held a fundraiser Project Pulse fundraiser].  We created this initiative because of the plight of at-risk youth in our community.  The headlines talk about the amount of gun violence in our communities and neighborhoods.  A lot of young black men are dying because of this gun violence and many young African American students are not working up to par academically.

AJ:  What role can sports play when we talk about helping at-risk youth?

Mike Logan:  I think sports play a vital role a child's development.  Athletics set the stage for teamwork, dedication and getting along with others.  When we talk about being successful in sports and athletics, not only do you have natural God-given ability but you also have to have a sharp mind and a willingness to learn. 

AJ:  Why is it so important for young people in disadvantaged neighborhoods to feel empowered?

AP:  I believe they need to feel empowered because the media doesn't display a lot of positive images for young people to emulate.  Young people need to not only see reality stars on T.V. but also people that look like them, people who are successful, making it and working.  Sometimes young people don't understand that there are people out there who actually believe in them, who care about them and who want to make an impact and a difference in their lives.  Mike and I worked with a group of young people who attended University Prep.  Mike and I both noticed that the students lacked the hope and trust that an adult outside of their family actually believed in them and wanted them to succeed.  It's important that they see and understand that. 

ML:  I agree with Alichia in the point that she made about the kids we have been able to mentor and coach.  It's the lack of belief that they themselves can make it out and be successful in the things they want to do in their lives.  Sometimes the kids aren't challenged by their parents or educators because they get caught in the idea of doing only what is required of them and nothing more.  The average G.P.A. in the Pittsburgh Public School district has dropped to a 1.5 and we had players on our team that were just shooting for that goal; to make a 1.5.  That is unacceptable to me.  You know I was born in St. Clair Village, raised in Whitaker Projects and I live in the Hill District now so I am these kids.  At their age, I ran these same streets, influenced by the same cultural and prone to the same violence but I didn't sell myself short.  I was determined to raise the bar. 

AJ:  What role do parents play in helping kids in academics and athletics?

ML:  Parents play a pivotal role in the success of their children.  At the end of the school day, these kids have to go to home to the environment that their parents set for them.  So kids watch and see what their parents do.  The interaction between parents and children is vital to how the child grows up.  I know that parents are busy and they work hard to make a better life for their kids but part of making a better life includes sharing quality time and positive experiences.  As educators and coaches, parents have to trust in us to believe in what we are teaching their kids.  So we have to coincide with the parents. 

AP:  I agree with what Mike was saying.   It's also important and empowering to have the support of the parents so that the students can understand that we are a support system.   When kids understand that they have the support of their schools, teachers, parents, mentors and community organizations; they have more success in academics, athletics and life. 

Pulse will hold another fundraiser, “A Night of Spoken Word Open Mic” May 25th  at the Central Northside Banquet Hall, 302 W. North Avenue.  RSVP:  Northsidepulse@gmail.com   allegra@urbanmediatoday.com  Photo:espn.go.com

Former Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner, who is one of the front-running candidates in the Pittsburgh Mayoral Primary, called a press conference Thursday to announce his pledge of “zero tolerance” for corruption in his administration if elected.

            The pledge came in response to news that a Federal Grand Jury had solicited testimony with two of current-Mayor Luke Ravenstahl’s personal protection detail, and his personal secretary.

            “I don’t know the particulars of it, all I know is what is reported in the media,” Wagner says. “It concerns us all that there continues to be a focus on city government. We need to find out truly what issues exist beyond what we know today, and appropriately deal with them, correct them, and move on.”

            “We need to instill faith back in city government,” Wagner says, adding that he feels he has brought integrity to government throughout his three-decades long career. “The public needs to once again have confidence that our government is working in a professional manner.”

            “Corruption of government officials is a betrayal of the trust put in them by the people of this city,” Wagner says. “If I am fortunate to be Mayor, I will take the necessary steps to root out any and all corruption in city government. There will be a zero-tolerance policy in my administration.”

            “There are a number of things I want to bring to this government, as Mayor, and certainly, the experience I’ve gained in a variety of positions will be extremely helpful.”

            Wagner says he will appoint an Ombudsman, independent of city government, to whom employees and citizens can bring concerns and complaints of fraud, waste and abuse. “If they detect a problem in government, if they think something is seriously wrong, they have a person to go to.”

            “I want that person to be associated with city government, but has independence and can speak openly and clearly without ties associated with anyone else,” Wagner says. “I’m not sure preceisely how we would structure that, but I think it’s very important in the event that we have a person who has information about something going on, a contract that was awarded that should not have been awarded, the use of public monies or equipment in the wrong way, services provided that should not have been provided… I could go on and on.”

            “We need someone independent to be a ‘clearing house’ for that sort of information,” Wagner says, “someone with ethics experience, someone, yes, with legal experience, someone who knows how to follow a dollar, who clearly understands how city government should function, who knows the city charter inside and out and backward.”

            Wagner says he “has not analyzed” how the new position would differ from those already in place within the city, including the Controller’s Fraud Hotline and Ethics Commission, “but we need to let the public know, we need to let city employees know, that there is somewhere to go if you see a problem with city government.”

            Wagner says he sees the new position not as a duplication of city services, but as “checks and balances between various branches of city government.”

            Wagner also thinks the administration should increase the availability of data available online, including contract information and financial operations within government, tied to the City Controller’s office.

            Wagner, who has received the political endorsement of  City Controller Mike Lamb after Lamb’s own withdrawal from the Primary contest, says he has “supports the independence of the Controller’s office, and I understand the importance of a ‘fiscal watchdog.’ I encourage that fiscal watchdog to place scrutiny on the  Executive Branch of [city] government, and all phases of city government.”

            “All of you know that Michael Lamb has been a professional, and I have confidence that he has the expertise to look at various phases of city government with independence and professionalism,” Wagner says. “I have the same confidence in my niece [Chelsa Wagner], who’s the controller in county government. Given both their professional functions at different levels of government, looking at joint authorities should be encouraged by the Executive.”

            “Finally, we need to consolidate financial operations,” Wagner says. “What troubles me the most about the fiscal problems related to the Grand Jury investigation and the Police Bureau, and obviously the charges brought against their previous Chief, is that we had a structural inequity within the management of city government. No one ever caught it, and therefore no one ever corrected it.”

            “Sunshine needs to shine in, and you need to have open dialog, transparency and accountability.”

            Wagner says the lack of transparency is why $8-$10 million went unreported and directly into the illegitimate Police Bureau accounts.

            “It’s beyond my understanding not just that the Chief didn’t identify that, but the Public Safety Director didn’t, the Finance Department Director didn’t, the Treasurer didn’t, no one at the Mayor’s office did, and especially City Council,” Wagner says. “Certainly the Finance Chair of City Council,” Wagner’s opponent, Bill Peduto. “there was no one in the government who identified that there was $8-$10 million that wasn’t even a line item.”

            Asked how the Finance Chair of Council was culpable, but Lamb was not, Wagner says “the Controller is, but basically, I have confidence in the office of the fiscal watchdog. Yes, the City Controller has responsibility.”

            “What I thought about when I heard this whole police fiasco was ‘where else is this going on in city government, that the finance department is not involved in financial transactions?’” Wagner says. “And why isn’t there coordination in city government in terms of the way we deal with taxpayer dollars? There isn’t even a common data system.”

            “Police officers are doing work that should be done by other departments of city government,” Wagner says about the accounting and scheduling of off-duty overtime assignments currently under investigation. “That frees up those officers to do the work they’re supposed to do, policing the streets of Pittsburgh.”

            Wagner says that all city departments and authorities need to be analyzed to determine where waste is occurring. “I don’t know the particulars of it, but the more we can be self-analytical, the better we can serve.”

            “I have always said, and certainly I will be this way as Mayor, that anyone has access [to me]. I am open to your thoughts, ideas and suggestions on how to improve government. I hold that access in high regard.”

            “This is our city, it isn’t my city or the Mayor’s city. It’s the people’s city, and what the people are saying is that they want executive leadership in the Mayor’s office.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

Swin Cash, a WNBA and Olympic star, gave a rousing address to the hundreds of people gathered at the Wyndham Hotel downtown for the Pittsburgh NAACP’s 59th annual Human Rights Dinner.

She not only plays for the Chicago Sky in the Windy City, but also runs a charity called Cash for Kids.

“I’ve always been committed to coming back and helping not only kids in my community, but also where I play.” She said.

Receiving the civil rights group’s coveted Judge Homer S. Brown Award were former Pittsburgh NAACP President Gayle Moss, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch, and Steelers legend Mel Blount.

The theme of the dinner was – Reenergize, Refocus, Restructure: Save Our Youth.

Tene’ Croom has snippets of Cash’s speech, exclusive interviews with the WNBA powerhouse, Charlie Batch, and Pittsburgh NAACP President Connie Parker in this video.

Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com

“When we’re here on Freedom Corner,” says State Representative Ed Gainey, “it’s important that we speak truth and put some of these lies to rest and focus on what’s coming down.”
Gainey was one of a number of prominent African-American community members who gathered at the historic monument to emphasize why they support City Council Representative Bill Peduto in the May 21 Democratic Mayoral Primary.
Cecile Springer, Chair of People for Peduto, says she felt it was important to address the issues, even in the rain, “because we’ve got to know what we’re doing, and I think our candidate is absolutely on top of those issues.”
Retired Pennsylvania Superior Court Justice Justin Johnson says he initially did not plan to speak at the event, but decided to do so because he finds Peduto “to be an honest person with integrity.”
“Recently he has been chastised for not being able to get along with people,” Johnson says. “Two thousand years ago, someone lost His life because He couldn’t get along with those who said ‘We want Barabbas.’ Not being able to get along with someone is a good thing, if the person who is being chastised has demonstrated he is for all people.”
“My mother was the daughter of an AME minister, and she had a saying from the last chapter of Joshua: ‘Choose ye this day whom ye shall serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,’” Johnson says. “At the risk of having a lightning bolt hit me, I say, ‘Choose ye this day for whom you will vote. I have a wife, I have a son, and in our house, we will vote for Peduto.”
“We have a lot of issues around development here in our community, and we’ve called on all the candidates to support our campaign for community benefits from all the development that happens here,” says Carl Redwood of the Hill Consensus Group. “We particularly have one campaign around ‘A Dollar A Car,’” which aims to “make sure parking revenue from these 3000 spaces [around Consol Energy Center] in some way benefits the people who live here and not just the owners of the Penguins. We called on all the candidates to support [it], but only one candidate stepped forward to support that: Bill Peduto.”
“Bill has put forward an idea for a ‘Parking Benefit District’ that could be created along with the development of the Lower Hill,” Redwood says. “That would create funds for us to carry on some of our non-bricks-and-mortar development here in the community, like improve our transportation, have better children and youth activities, help homeowners fix up their homes. This fund would create about $600,000 a year for the next 25 years to support families and residents in this community.”
“Development is a good thing, but not when it displaces the residents of a community,” Redwood says. Redwood says that the Hill CDC does not endorse candidates, but notes that Peduto and City Council Candidate Tonya Payne were the only candidates who indicated they were in favor of the fund.
Keith McBroom, who identified himself as “a [Democratic] committee person from the 13th Ward, where we grow more empty lots than anything,” says “it’s time we got some representation. We have been overlooked and shunned by all the politicians, except for Mr. Gainey and except for Mr. Peduto.”
“I challenge Mr. Wagner: Come out, walk the streets, explain why, and what you can do. I challenge Mr. Wheatley.”
“Bill Peduto was not afraid to do it,” McBroom says. “He came to my house in the 13th Ward.”
“I need to know what the plan is, what you are going to do to make my younger constituency build up. I want them to stop giving hands out and start giving hands up: Rehabilitate, educate, let them build their own. Bill Peduto will make that happen.”
Gainey says that the Wagner campaign’s claims that Peduto favors only his district, voting against Homewood, are false.
“It’s not that he voted against it, let me be clear. The community had concerns with it,” including how it would be fitted into the existing neighborhood, and whether or not community members would be included in the hiring for the construction of the building, Gainey says. “Whenever you have a a gentleman who wants to make sure there’s diversity on projects that aren’t even in his district, that minorities and women are going to work, and he votes against it because it’s in the interest of the community until we have it right, there you have a Mayor.”
“It’s about the City of Pittsburgh, not just one Council District,” Gainey says. “So the distortion of the truth must be known. We wanted to make sure the community had a voice, and we have to make sure every project has diversity for women and minorities. It’s not just about one person, it’s about all of us. It’s one city.”
Latasha Mays says Peduto understands the needs of women in the community she represents in her job. “I’m endorsing Bill Peduto [personally] because I have worked with him on a variety of issues over the years, on issues of reproductive health rights, on issues of domestic violence, on issues of equal pay. Peduto has been there. He understands the kind of progressive political ethic that is needed to change the city.”
“Bill Peduto is the best candidate for mayor because he has put in the work, has made himself available to so many members of this community,” Mays says. “He is committed to diversity and inclusion and the leadership of women, and women of color, in this community.”
“About seven months ago, I got a call from Bill. He said, ‘hey, I want to talk to you about what African-Americans need,’” says long-time School Board member and community activist Mark Brentley. “It was a two-hour meeting, and I wore his ear out about what we need and where we should be and where he should be.”
After that conversation, Brentley says, he felt that Peduto sincerely wanted to work with the African-American community, and so, “I decided I would publicly stand with him.”
“Is Bill Peduto a cure-all for what’s going on in the community? No, he is not, because the stuff has been going on for so long,” Brentley says. “Can we begin to start making some changes with him? I believe that yes, we can.”
“I also promised to be the voice in his ear, to give him some tough love, to share what I think he should be involved with in terms of our community.”
“I got to know Bill when I was on Council and he was an aide to Dan Cohen,” says County Department of Real Estate Manager Valerie McDonald Roberts, who took a half day off from her job to be present. “I was arguing about programs that don’t work, hedging about why we couldn’t involve the faith community. He came in with a piece of paper I thought was for Dan Cohen, but it was for me. He not only had research, facts, statistics that absolutely affirmed what I was saying, but in addition to that, he actually had Scripture.”
“He doesn’t wear his spirituality on his sleeve, but it’s in him to be a good man,” Roberts says. “He has a lot of depth. I found that out back in the 90s, and remember it to this day.”
“Bill Peduto says that when he goes to bed, he wants to make sure he’s done the right thing,” Roberts says. “He has stood alone. He is a warrior and has been a warrior for years, fighting on the right side of things, even when he’s alone.”
“We need a new day, and we cannot have that with people who are not from a new day,” Roberts says. “We need to put old politics aside and we need a new person who is thinking outside the box.”
“Who is going to be sincerely there for us, not just with rhetoric?,” Roberts asks.
“This city needs to move forward.” 

By Nancy Hart
nancy@urbanmediatoday.com
Twitter: @nhart543

Wednesday afternoon, Pittsburgh City Council gave preliminary approval to contracts for installation and monitoring of a system of cameras and audio monitors called “Shot Spotters” in a three square mile area in Council District 9, represented by Reverend Ricky Burgess.
The contracts came under fire by some on Council because of a perception that they were awarded on a no-bid level, as “sole source” contracts, but according to representatives of SST, Inc., the city’s existing contracts with their firm means that this phase of installation is merely an extension of an existing contract. The system would integrate with existing city systems, as well as those of the Port Authority and Allegheny County, and would eliminate the need to retrain personnel.
Additionally, Shot Spotter is only one of two vendors who provide a reliable system, and is currently in litigation with the second contractor, claiming the other firm is violating the Shot Spotter patent rights.
Slated to cost $1.5 million, the project involves the installation of audio sensors in about 45 locations throughout Homewood and nearby areas. These sensors will detect gunshots, and not only alert officers through a wireless, cellular network when shots are fired, but also redirect a network of approximately 60 cameras to focus on the location where the sound originated. A monitoring station will simultaneously receive the report, and trained monitors will be able to differentiate whether the sound is an actual gunshot, rather than fireworks, a car backfire, or other loud noises which could be mistaken for gunfire, thus eliminating “false positives.”
Images generated by the cameras can be used not only to identify shooting suspects, but also to clarify the circumstances and indicate the presence of any potential witnesses.
Members of council questioned whether the expense of the system is worth it, considering that, as Council Representative Patrick Dowd says, “the cops aren’t coming” due to officer shortages within the zone. “It’s not possible that that camera by itself, or that sound system by itself will save someone’s life. What will stop people from dying is when you have these tools, but also a police presence of a certain type and a certain number. There just aren’t enough officers in Zone 5.”
Council Representative Theresa Kail-Smith, who chairs City Council’s Public Safety Committee, says she would like to see the program extended citywide, not just in high crime areas, but “in neighborhoods that we are trying to sustain.”
“One of our commanders has specifically requested this system for Sheraden,” Kail-Smith says. “The acting chief has been looking into placing officers in Zones 2 and 5, and we do need additional officers in those zones. Our numbers may be down, but they are responding, even with the minimal numbers they have.”
“I see this as just one component of what will come forward. Maybe these cameras will make people safe enough to come forward.”
Burgess became emotional as he responded, “How much is the value of a human life,” claiming that officers in Zone 5, which patrols the area, perform their jobs well despite scheduling shortfalls. “For me, I know these people. When I start talking about these homicides in my district, it’s personal.”
According to representatives of the contractor, without the system, as many as 75 percent of all gunshots go unreported, but that the system would work to simplify the work of officers who can the respond “more accurately, quickly and safely, because not only do they have the exact location, we also provide them with the severity of that event, so they can respond with the appropriate tactical force.”
“So, you’re not sending a rookie cop into a gun battle.”
Funds for the expansion of the system will come from operating surpluses saved through debt refinancing and from the projected capital budget for 2014.
Wednesday’s vote resulted in an unanimous decision in favor of the system, however, the legislation allotting funding for the system will come before Council at their regular Tuesday session next week. Council Representatives Dowd and Natalia Rudiak, both of whom have expressed concerns with the project, were not present for the preliminary vote, and Council Representative and Mayoral candidate Bill Peduto says his “aye” vote is dependent on an affirmation prior to the final vote that the contract did not require a re-bid to include additional contractors.

By Nancy Hart
nancy@urbanmediatoday.com
Twitter: @nhart543

Tene’ Croom had a chance to talk with Julia Browne, owner of Walking the Spirit Tours, the original Black Paris heritage tours since 1994.  

They discussed a number of things including how fascinating Paris is to visit. The City of Love has a rich heritage of African Americans who have lived there ranging from celebrated entertainer Josephine Baker to award winning novelist James Baldwin. See more of their conversation in this video.

Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com

In December of 2007, The Pittsburgh Promise was established as a way for Pittsburgh Public Schools students to have a financial chance to continue their education beyond high school.

            Students who maintain a grade point average of 2.5 and an attendance record of 90 percent are eligible to receive up to $40,000 in scholarship funds to attend any accredited post-secondary educational institution in Pennsylvania, regardless of family need, and is a commitment for up to four years of college. Funding is pro-rated based on the number of years a student has attended Pittsburgh Public Schools.

            The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center vowed to commit $100 million to the campaign as a challenge to other funders in order to raise an estimated $250 million required to sustain the program for many years.

            The original target date for the goal was 2018, but Monday, Pittsburgh Promise Board member Marty McGuinn, retired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mellon Financial Corporation, told corporate and community leaders gathered at Pittsburgh’s CAPA that a new goal of 2015 now appears attainable.

            “This is achievable with nearly two-thirds of the funds already in place,” McGuinn says. “Fulfilling the goal sooner will help to not only secure, but advance the mission of the program.”

            Since the inception of the Promise, $60 million in additional funds have been raised through corporate, foundation and individual donation. More than $32 million in scholarships have been granted to 3800 PPS graduates through 2012.

            UPMC has committed to fulfill its pledge of funding, even though the fundraising efforts have fallen short of original expectations by approximately $9.3 million. President and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Romoff says that “to help accelerate this funding initiative, UPMC will fully commit regardless of the annual funding amount raised, or the time it takes to raise those funds.”

            Shortening the deadline, though, McGuinn says, “will require attracting funding from a range of companies, major gifts from individuals, and more donations from the community at large. We believe this approach will perpetuate the trend of more kids attending colleges or trade schools, effectively grooming them for our future workforce.”

            Two additional funders announced financial commitments to the fund at today’s gathering: $1 million each from locally-based retailers American Eagle Outfitters and pharmaceutical manufacturer Mylan. Both donations will result in permanently-named scholarships through the Promise: The American Eagle Promise Scholar and The Mylan Promise Scholar. 

            “American Eagle believes in advancing the mission of the Promise,” says AEO Chief Executive Officer Robert Hanson, who is also a member of the Promise Board of Directors. “Our pledge is a natural fit with our philanthropic strategy to help students stay in school and prepare for college and their careers.”

            “We are pleased to support one of the country’s leading scholarship programs, which advances public education reform while preparing our young people for jobs in science and business,” says Heather Bresch, CEO of Mylan. “Our pledge supports the hope that students in our own backyard receive an education after high school.”

            The newly organized funding campaign, to be called “Now Fulfilling the Promise for Years to Come,” is significant in that “it means that every student currently enrolled in a Pittsburgh Public School from Pre-Kindergarten on up could be eligible to receive scholarship support from our community when they graduate,” says Pitsburgh Promise Executive Director Saleem Ghubril.

            These funding commitments, Ghubril says, as well as those of foundations, corporations and individuals throughout the region, “add to our conviction that our mission is advancing.”

             “And our students are working harder and dreaming bigger dreams for a future that is full of promise.”

            Pittsburgh Promise Board Chair Franco Harris says that, “from a fund development standpoint, we have momentum that was created by UPMC, and sustained by the numerous foundations and individuals who care about kids and about the future of this region. We truly appreciate all of the support and donations received to date.”

            To learn more about The Pittsburgh Promise, visit pittsburghpromise.org/index.php.

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

Wednesday evening, residents of the Hill District and members of the Hill Community Development Corporation met with representatives of the Penguins, the city’s Sports and Exhibition Authority (SEA), Urban Design Associates and Council Representative R. Daniel Lavelle to continue discussions about the redevelopment of the former site of the Civic Arena at the lower end of the Hill District. The area under discussion includes all the land beginning at Washington Place Downtown and continuing up to Crawford Street, with Bedford and Centre Avenues as boundaries to the north and south.

            Co-hosted by The Design Center, an organization which seeks to involve communities in revitalizing and improving neighborhoods through thoughtful development and the Hill CDC, the meeting was intended to inform residents of efforts being made to address concerns expressed at the first meeting regarding the overall design of the project as it relates to the community’s own Hill District Master Plan, and to achieve consensus on the basic street-grid layout of the “new Lower Hill.”

            Developers have extended the original timeline for submitting the street grid design plan to the City Planning Commission and Zoning Commission in response to community members’ concerns that it was progressing too quickly, however, they say they would like to submit the Preliminary Land Development Plan (PLDP) for the physical infrastructure development to the commissions by May 17. This date would allow the infrastructure planning for the site to go through a broader public input process and City Council hearings prior to Council’s summer break in August.

            The PLDP, says Marimba Milliones of the Hill CDC, is merely a first step in discussions meant to serve as a basis upon which further discussions of housing, business planning and other aspects of the project can be based. It concerns the basic aspects of the development like sewer and water lines, street design and lighting, utility placement, traffic control plans and green space allotments.

            Urban Design Associates Consultant Ivette Mongalo-Winston says  “this is not the same type of ‘vision plan’ that people are used to. There are two pots of things: There’s the technical stuff, and there’s the heart of the community. We have to check off those technical boxes for the purposes of the city.”

            “Just because the overarching vision everybody gets behind isn’t in here doesn’t mean it does not exist,” Mongalo-Winston says. “This document is meant to meet certain city requirements.”

            “It’s a process,” says Penguins Community Consultant Margaret Garner, “but we’re working through that process, and we’re going to continue working through it with you. We’re going to continue as a team in a collaborative manner.” 

            Residents concerns with the plan focused on differences between what developers presented as opposed to the Hill District Master Plan’s desired return to the original street grid of the area before the construction of the Civic Arena, particularly the need to reconnect the Hill District as a gateway to Downtown. At the initial meeting, residents expressed a wish to “extend the Hill grid down, not the Downtown grid up into the Hill.”

            Residents were also concerned that all streets on the grid were not interconnected, which would create traffic congestion and not allow traffic to flow freely into the rest of the Hill, particularly Webster Avenue, which would terminate at Crawford Avenue.

            Mongalo-Winston explained that the new street grid was an attempt to align as closely as possible to the original grid, but that new road standards and the Americans with Disabilities Act made some desired changes impossible to achieve.

            “We’re making an effort to connect as much as we can within the parameters today,” Mongalo-Winston says. “And the slope across the site” restricts the placement of intersections due to grade.

            “We are striving with Wylie Avenue to level out as much as we can of it in the middle of the site,  where the majority of the commercial development will happen,” she says, “so it does mean it’s steeper in the upper and the lower blocks.” Current road standards restrict the rise in grade at intersections to two percent, or a rise of two feet in elevation over 100 feet of roadway length.

            “I like to refer to this as the skeleton, with Wylie Avenue as the spine and the roads and sidewalks as the skeleton,” says Tom Riester of Michael Baker, Jr., design engineers for the site. “We’re doing the skeleton for this guy, and you can flesh it out with all the artwork and everything else you guys do, but from the perspective of the skeleton, we need to provide for the best movement of people and cars.”

            “We are connecting Webster through pedestrian passages,” Mongalo-Winston says. “When you get down to Washington, there’s the issue of how close intersections are. That is all regulated, and we would not be entitled to another intersection. That is where the ramps (for I-579) start to intersect also.”

            The plan restores as many streets to the original grid, with plans to replicate original streets as pedestrian walkways and stairways as much as possible.  Streets in the plan are four-lane, two-way streets, with metered parking along both sides and two traffic lanes.

            Direct access to downtown is cut off by Washington Place and Crosstown Boulevard, but crossings exist for safe passage at intersections.

            “The conversation is to build a ‘cap’ here,” Lavelle says, indicating a possible park-like construct creating a bridge over the roadway to connect more directly with Downtown, but, he says that would be “a long process, possibly a 10-year process.”

            Additional parking needs are expected to be met by developers of individual buildings, with garages or “tuck-under” parking to meet recommended parking ratios. “Parking comes with the buildings,” Mongalo-Winston said. The parking areas would be contained within the property boundaries of the building site. “If they build an office building, parking would come with it. If they build an apartment building, parking will come with it.”

            Residents expressed concerns that parking would be used for patrons of Consol Center as opposed to residents. Parking is already an issue in the Hill for Consol events because on-street parking in the neighborhood is currently free. They also indicated concerns with plans to institute a resident parking permit system.

            “It’s just another tax on us,” said one resident. When another resident said that the $25 fee for a permit might actually be a convenience for residents and guests, other residents said they were concerned that permit parking would not be enforced on event days.

            The Dollar-A-Car plan, which was meant to be instituted to provide funds for future Hill District neighborhood development, would necessarily be invalidated as the Penguins’ control of surface parking ends. Garages would be individually owned by various developers of the projects within the site.

            Residents expressed many concerns that the PLDP was not being integrated within the Greater Hill District Master Plan, but Milliones says that Sasaki Design, which worked with the CDC on that plan, has reached out to UDA, the Penguins design consultants, to develop the plans.

            “If the community was assigned to draft the street grid for the Lower Hill District, based upon the principles of the Master Plan, it would come out very close to this,” says Sala Udin, who has been actively working with planners and Lavelle on the design for the site. “I think we came pretty close to aligning this with the Master Plan.”

            “We don’t want to lose sight of the fact that this is the Hill,” says Reverend Glenn Grayson, Pastor of Wesley Center AME Zion Church, speaking to a controversy amongst attendees about the naming of the site, which planners say is being called “Lower Hill” only in an effort to delineate that the plan applies only to the 28 acre site and not the entire neighborhood.

            2010 market studies and economic impact analyses which served as the basis for the current plan will be made available to the public as soon as possible so the general public will have transparent access to the process for determining percentages of affordable housing, office space and other qualities of the site.

            “We will quickly figure out ways to get those available to the public [online],” says Travis Williams of the Penguins. “We will also move to get paper copies accessible to the public” at potential locations like the Carnegie Library and the Thelma Lovette YMCA.

            Lavelle asked that citizens agree to participate in committees to discuss language issues in the PLDP so that the discussion of the evening could focus on the street grid plan. “The reality is, should we not begin to deal with at least that one specific issue, this much larger conversation will never occur, because we will not have addressed the infrastructure issues.”

            Planners have not proposed any changes to the current travel patterns of travel on Centre or Bedford Avenue, but do intend to limit traffic speeds to 25 miles per hour both on those avenues and on all new streets through the use of traffic signals and stop signs. They also hope that commercial development in the remainder of the Hill will continue uninterrupted because of the continuing flow on the exterior streets.

            “The idea is that we would complement, or supplement, what is already being done with what is down here,” says Williams, indicating the proposed first-floor retail locations along Centre Avenue. “We need to continue to coordinate with the activity” that continues in the rest of the neighborhood.

            According to Milliones, the next step is to have the community come together on a development and implementation plan in accordance with the Master Plan. “My goal is not to ‘meet’ you to death, but I would not want to assume you do not want to meet. I would err on the side of more communication rather than less.”

            The next meeting for the plan, dealing with jobs, housing and wealth building, are tentatively being scheduled for the weeks of May 6 and May 13, with additional topics to be discussed at a third meeting to be determined.

            For more information, visit http://www.hilldistrict.org/news-and-updates.

By Nancy Hart     nancy@urbanmediatoday.com  Follow me @nhart543

It was 1994 when the world fell in love with Brandy, the fresh faced teenage singer with the raspy, mature voice.  Her self-titled debut album rose to the top of the Billboard R&B charts.  And now, the singer/actress is back with her latest album "Two Eleven" and is starring on BET's hit series, "The Game".

Recently, Brandy spoke with UrbanMediaToday's Allegra Johnson about her new role on "The Game", what it means to be an actress of color and some details about her upcoming wedding to music executive Ryan Press.   

Allegra Johnson:  Your character Chardonnay was recently introduced to the series The Game, can you tell me a little bit about her?

Brandy:  Chardonnay is just a woman who knows her worth, she is very, very strong.  She has a very feisty, sassy type of attitude.  She's no-nonsense and speaks her mind about everything; I love that about her.  This season, she is just adjusting to being a football wife.  Meeting Jason changed her life; she was used to riding the bus and being a bartender.  Now she's married to this legend that brought the city a championship.  She's trying to get used to her new circle of friends and trying to find her place; at the same time, not loosing who she is.  It's great to see the relationship between myself and Wendy Raquel [Robinson, Tasha Mack] It's just a really great season for me. 

AJ:  How was it being the new girl on set and how was it transiting to new cast members, Lauren London and Jay Ellis?

B:  Well, I'm really not a newcomer this season, I was last season.  But being a series regular and sharing the energy with everyone last season, it just felt like a continuation.  I really connected with Wendy and Hosea.  They embraced me from the moment I got there.  And it was great to see Lauren and Jay get their feet wet on set and everybody embracing them.  It's just great energy with people who want to see other people do well.  So whatever is needed on set, we give that. 

AJ:  The Game is known for it's great writing and solid cast, so what can viewers expect this season?

B:   It's a lot of twist and turns this season.  Sometimes I would read the script and go, oh my God.  And then with scripts I didn't read, I'd watch the scenes and it's like oh snap!  So it's going to be a lot of shock value.  It's real grown this season. 

AJ:  You have worked on some great shows, like:  Thea, Moeasha, Drop Dead Diva; to the latest Tyler Perry movie, “Temptation”.  As a woman of color, do you feel a responsibility to play roles that embrace strong, positive women?

B:  I definitely do.  There's so many different women out there; that's the beauty of acting, each role that you play, there is someone out there just like that character.  I think acting is about bringing truth to a character and being relate-able so people can feel like they're not alone.  With the characters that I have been blessed to play and I haven't played many but I plan to do more.  With the Chardonnay character, she has her own voice.  Then with Melinda, the character I play in [Tyler Perry's] Temptation movie, she's running away from a very troubled past and she has a lot of dark secrets that keep her running.  There are so many different people out there who go through so much and they don't want to feel like they are by themselves.  So I think the characters that I've gotten a chance to  play can help people in some way. 

AJ:  When we talk about your music, many of your fans feel like they grew up with you.  Why do you think that the same fans who listened to "Brandy" in 1994 are listening to "Two Eleven" today?

B:  I honestly think my music is authentic, it's organic.  It's my diary, it's the way that I vent.  It's the way I get the things that trouble me off my chest, the things that make me happy; I can sing about it.  And I love, love my fans just as much as they love me.  So everything I do, in terms of picking songs and putting things together [is for my fans].  With this latest album "Two Eleven", I felt like this was a comeback album for me.  I really wanted to do a body of work that made my fans proud, that was the goal for me. 

AJ:  You started in the business as a child actor and singer, And you were able to make that successful transition into an adult artist.  as a mother and former child star, what  advice would you give parents who are raising children in show business?

B:  First of all I think they have to listen to them.  I think it's important to listen to the artist.  It's important to listen to feelings and emotions.  It's also important to encourage them to stay true to who they are.  We are in a business that likes to change who you are.  I think it's important for artist to stay true to who they are, I had to learn that the hard way.  I was searching for who I was in the wrong places.  With the encouragement from parents and mentors; you have to keep people around you that are not afraid to keep it real with you and keep it honest.  You don't need "yes" people around, you need "no" people to tell you the truth. 

AJ:  Again congratulations on your engagement, is there any thing you can tell us about your big day, maybe who you'll be wearing, or if it will be a big or small wedding?

B:  I can say that I think the wedding will be big and it's not because of me.  The wedding is going to be big because of my fiance', [Ryan Press] he has a lot of friends that he does not want to say no to.  I think it's going to turn into something very very special.  I don't know who I am wearing yet but I want to try on everything.  I want to try on every single dress out there, I just want to see how it looks.  When I know everything, yall going to know everything!

THE GAME is executive produced by Mara Brock Akil, Salim Akil, Kenny Smith, Erica Montolfo-Buro and Kelsey Grammer.  THE GAME airs Tuesday 10/9C on BET. 
allegra@urbanmediatoday.com

Thirteen months ago, City Council Representative and Mayoral Candidate Bill Peduto wrote a letter to the Commonwealth’s Insurance Commission to urge that body to approve a financial affiliation between the nearly-bankrupt West Penn Allegheny Health System (WPAHS) and Highmark.

            “Highmark has shown an undeniable commitment to providing the capital for critically-needed improvements to WPAHS facilities,” Peduto says in his letter, dated March 14, 2012.

            Peduto cited the importance of WPAHS as job creators, an “economic engine,” and, as the Chair of Council’s Human Resource Commission, as a provider of “real choice in health care” for city employees.

            Monday morning, fellow candidate and former State Auditor General Jack Wagner announced that he, too, had sent a letter to the head of that commission, Michael F. Consedine, to ask for the approval.

            “The mayor has to take a position on important issues impacting our city and our region,” Wagner says. “This issue is immediate in nature,” because the deadline for public comment is Friday, April 19.

            In his letter, Wagner says he “strongly recommends the decision is a positive one, not just for Pittsburgh, but for all of Southwestern Pennsylvania.”

            Wagner says that studies show Pittsburgh is “one of the highest health-care-cost regions in the country. It may in fact be the highest,” and this high cost is one of the main concerns of corporate executives in the region.

            “You need competition in the health care industry to make sure you can at least control, or keep down the cost,” Wagner says, and the acquisition of WPAHS by Highmark “creates competition in the region, and in the health care market.”

            Additionally, WPAHS employs 12,000 people in the region, Wagner says, “and the majority of those jobs are in the city of Pittsburgh. And they are quality jobs, from top to bottom, quality, reliable jobs for our people.”

            “It’s important to note the positive spinoff impact of the system,” Wagner says, citing Federal Street on Pittsburgh’s North Side as an example. “This is a nucleus for other jobs — how many, I don’t know, but it’s a lot, and they’re quality jobs. This is precisely what we want to see happen in our city.”

            Wagner also says an important factor in keeping WPAHS afloat is the quality of health care the system provides throughout the region. “This institution represents some of the best and highest quality health care in the nation.”

            “The commissioner will be making a critical decision within days or weeks,” Wagner says, adding that he has heard April 30 mentioned as a deadline. “We think it’s vitally important that the leadership of this community speak out on this very important issue impacting our health and impacting our economy.”

            Wagner says that he has not spoken with officials at UPMC, but that he has “read in some articles in the past few days that they have no problem with the competition.”

            He has not considered what might happen should the decision be against the affiliation, but he hopes that doesn’t occur. If it is, “we will go back to ‘Square One’ real fast.”

            Wagner also says he has been in contact “with certain individuals at the state level, and I’m not going to mention [names] today, some legislators that are in key positions, and I believe [they] can have a positive impact on this decision.

            A Peduto spokesperson says “We are pleased to see Wagner jumping on the bandwagon and following Bill’s lead. Leadership has taken action. Where has Jack been?”

            Wagner’s campaign said in a Twitter response that Peduto’s campaign is trying “to turn agreeing on an important issue into a petty, political fight.”

            The response? “No fight here. Just welcome aboard.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

Early Tuesday morning, Republican Mayoral Candidate Josh Wander announced that he would be running a write-in campaign for the Democratic nomination in the race.

            Wander will remain the Republican candidate for the office, but says that after consulting with members of the city’s Republican Committee, he feels they support his cross-ticket effort.

            Wander says the effort was prompted in part by the fact that “the Republican party has not been very successful in our city. Registration is six to one against us, and we just decided to do what the Democrats do to us,” a reference to Mayor Luke Ravenstahl’s own write-in campaign for the Republican ballot spot in 2009.

            “There’s a circus going on right now on the Democratic side,” Wander says of the four-way race between City Council Representative Bill Peduto, Former State Auditor General Jack Wagner, State Representative Jake Wheatley and community activist AJ Richardson. The four candidates are a narrow field after as many as seven candidates have thrown their hats into the ring and withdrawn, including the incumbent Ravenstahl. “We want to give the voters of Pittsburgh, who are predominantly Democrats, the opportunity to ‘protest vote’ by writing my name in.”

            “I go around campaigning every day, and I speak to people who say, ‘Josh, we’d love to vote for you, but we’re registered Democrats,’” Wander says. “This gives them an opportunity to make that protest vote in the Primary, as well as in November.”

            “I’m not a Democrat,” Wander says. “I’m not trying to pretend like I’m a Democrat. But there are four candidates up there that a lot of people are not happy with, and this gives them the opportunity to choose someone else they may be happier with.”

            “If people want to support me in the Fall, and they say they can’t do anything in the Primary, well then, this gives them an actionable thing they can do in the Primary Election.”

            Wander has not publicly “rolled out” his platform, so he cannot give specific details on what differentiates his candidacy from that of the Democrats. The platform will be released on his website, which will be up and running “in the next several days.”

            “You will see a drastic difference between what the Democratic candidates right now are speaking about, and I don’t see that much of a difference between any of them, and what we’re proposing.”

            “They’re just competing for popularity,” Wander says, “but as far as what they’re proposing, it’s basically all the same stuff.”

            Wander, a Squirrel Hill resident and father of six, previously ran a campaign for the City Council seat in District 5 held by Corey O’Connor. Born in McKeesport, Wander attended Hillel Academy and Yeshiva Schools prior to moving to Israel to attain an undergraduate degree in Talmudic Law. He served in the Israeli army and as an advisor to Israel’s Knesset. He returned to the US, served as a state constable and earned a Master’s Degree in Public and International Affairs from Pitt, and has begun work on a Doctoral Degree in the same field. Wander is also active in the Doomsday Prepper movement, promoting Kosher methods of preparing for disaster readiness on his recently-suspended website, jewishpreppers.com.

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543  

The Rankin/Mon Valley/Pittsburgh, PA Section of the National Council of Negro Women or NCNW held it's fourth annual Legacy luncheon on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at Hosanna House in Wilkinsburg. They honored some extraordinary women 80 years old and over. Civil and women's rights icon Alma Speed Fox was among them.

Tene' Croom attended the event and talked to Flora Jackson, President of the NCNW Section, about a number of things including the luncheon and the importance of the organization.
Reach Tene' at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com

Conspicuous consumption and snob appeal long have been a part of fashion and its marketing, occasionally to the point of absurdity.

Hermes, a paragon of luxury, provides the latest example. The French high-fashion house offers in its spring menswear line a black alligator T-shirt that costs $91,500. With tax, the total approaches a whopping $100,000. It’s no wonder, then, that the item has set tongues atwitter in the fashion world over the last two weeks.

Such extravagances, though uncommon, are not new to fashion. The heart-shaped Mouawad 1001 Nights purse, introduced two years ago, featured 18-karat gold details and 4,517 diamonds totaling 382 carats. Crafted by 10 artisans who worked 1,100 hours over four months, the bag’s cost was a cool $3.8 million.

On a more accessible but still brow-raising level a few years earlier, a pair of exclusive Dolce & Gabbana jeans sold for $1,150 at an upscale women’s boutique in Pittsburgh. Around the same time, Escada was selling a crystal-encrusted style for $10,000. Such purchases are not for the faint of heart or wallet, those who flinch at anything more than $250 for a pair of True Religions. In fact, jeans that cost more than $100 make up less than 1% of the $14-billion denim industry in the U.S., so custom couture styles that routinely run upwards of $4,000 are unlikely to register on the retail-shopping radar of most Americans.

The reality is, there is a rarefied air in fashion that most will never breathe. It is the stratosphere of style, and it is what makes things like Hermes’ alligator tee such good fodder for water-cooler conversation. Some decry crass capitalism, noting that the shirt costs twice as much as the average U.S. household earns in a year. Some decry selfish materialism, pointing to a recession-ravaged economy that has given rise to swelling welfare rolls and overcrowded homeless shelters. How many sick and struggling seniors could $100,000 buy medication for over the course of a month? How many hungry Third World children could it feed for a week? How many scholarships could it provide for outstanding college students on the verge of dropping out for lack of resources?

Animal lovers and animal-rights groups are surely shaking their heads, too. How many alligators were “harvested” to create the line of shirts? What happened to the carcasses that were skinned? Even if the alligators were bred in captivity specifically for the shirts – perhaps dining on caviar, prime rib and bottled water – how were they killed?

Legitimate questions all, but they miss the point. Extremes in fashion are not unusual and, like any extreme, are seldom to be taken at face value. Hermes will probably make a profit on the shirts because there will always be those who have deep pockets and enjoy spending frivolously. But the real payoff comes when the brand’s name is invoked in mass media, when a buzz is generated that raises the brand’s profile above competitors, even if for only a few days. And in such product placements, it doesn’t matter whether the words are flattering, condemnatory or indifferent, because the point was to get the brand in the public’s eye and on the public’s lips. If that’s the metric, then the pedicured suits at Hermes are sure to be crowing, “Mission accomplie!”   French for “Mission accomplished!”

LaMont Jones
LaMont@urbanmediatoday.com

Those watching the Mayoral Primary Campaign in recent days ranked City Council Representative Bill Peduto as the front runner, with former State Auditor General Jack Wagner a close second and City Controller Michael Lamb in third place.

            State Representative Jake Wheatley and community activist AJ Richardson have both barely begun to campaign.

            Monday afternoon, third place came up for grabs as Lamb announced he would withdraw his candidacy and endorse Wagner as “the best candidate.”

            Saying he entered the race “because I love this city,” Lamb says he is leaving for the same reason.

            “We need to work together to bring together communities, small businesses, and our leaders to ensure that we are working towards equality and justice for every person in every neighborhood of this city,” Lamb says. “A race with many candidate is blurry and difficult. I don't want the conversation for our next leader to be generalities; we need a real dialogue to ensure we get the best possible candidate for the job”

            “This crowded field muddies the debate.”

            Lamb’s withdrawal adds another interesting element to a race which has already seen the highly unusual pullout of an incumbent’s reelection campaign. After Mayor Luke Ravenstahl  announced he would not seek reelection, several other candidates threw their hats into the ring, with Lamb receiving the endorsement of the city’s Democrats as the only candidate to request that support.

            Lamb says he has spoken with many of the city’s Democratic leaders, and that his status as the endorsed candidate is “one of the tough parts of this” decision. “The decision I make today is what I believe is in the best interests of Pittsburgh, and the people I talked to within the City Democratic Committee agreed with that.”

            Democratic City Chair Eileen Kelly says she is reviewing the rules to see if another endorsement is possible for one of the remaining candidates.

            Lamb says he talked to Wagner “over the weekend,” but has not spoken to any of the other candidates. Wagner did not “encourage” Lamb to withdraw, he says, rather, “I initiated the conversation.”

            “Jack and I had a good conversation about the role of the Controller and the Mayor,” Lamb says. “Obviously we are two very independent people, and that continues. We don’t agree on every issue, but he recognizes there is a role for the controller in the city’s finances going forward, and an active role at that.”

            “I am going to campaign for Jack, “ Lamb says. “I think there’s a choice here: I think Jack is a guy who has great relations both in labor and in business. When you think of the ‘Executive Experience’ necessary to do this job, Jack brings that to the table.”

            Wagner opponent Bill Peduto’s campaign refused comment on Lamb’s claims of superior Labor relations, but Peduto has been endorsed by Ironworkers Local 3, the Fraternal Association of Professional Paramedics Local 1, the United Steelworkers; Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees, SEIU Local 32BJ and the Laborers District Council of Western Pennsylvania.

            However, Peduto agrees that voters have a choice to make.

            “Pittsburgh needs a strong leader who has demonstrated a real commitment to ending waste, fraud and abuse, who has revitalized neighborhoods and secured the city’s finances.”

            Peduto’s campaign, he says, has “built a new coalition of people who understand what Pittsburgh can be. I’m looking forward to continuing to earn the support of voters all over the city and working to reach this vision together.”
            Wheatley says Lamb’s withdrawal has renewed his commitment to “presenting to the people of Pittsburgh an agenda which will end the politics as usual, and move our city forward.”

            “We will only truly claim prosperity if all our citizens are prospering.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

            

At the February 2013 meeting of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), funding was approved for an innovative program that could save low-income home buyers money on energy and may assure that they will be able to keep their homes.

            The Energy Efficiency and Foreclosure Prevention Initiative is a pilot program launching in Philadelphia and Allegheny Counties. In Allegheny County, the $250,000 startup is expected to leverage funds from local utilities to perhaps as much as $1 million.

            The program targets homeowners who hold PHFA mortgages in all areas of Allegheny County, and have incomes below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Limit. A partnership between PHFA, ACTION-Housing, Columbia Gas, Duquesne Light, Equitable Gas and Peoples Natural Gas, the program will provide a home-energy audit to identify potential energy savings, then, improvements to deficient areas will be provided by third-party contractors.

            While there will be no cost to homeowners for the audit or the improvements, the average anticipated cost will be approximately $5000 per home. All four utility companies have existing programs which will work with PHFA and their partners to run the program.

            “By working with homeowners to lower their energy-related expenses, we will make homeownership more affordable, helping families to stay in their homes,” says PHFA Executive Director and CEO Brian Hudson. “Our average mortgage holder spends 13 percent of their income on energy costs, as opposed to the average of 7 percent.”

            PHFA will also provide homeowners with in-depth financial training to ensure that weatherization savings are contributing to “consistent mortgage payments.”

            Congressman Mike Doyle says the idea behind the program is to help people stay in their  homes.

            “This is a great program, it’s a pilot program that’s going to be tested to see how it works,” Doyle says, “We’re going to have accountability with it and monitor the results, and hopefully, if it’s as successful as we expect, we can start to replicate this in other parts of the country.”

            “The financial counseling part, for a lot of young people, for the elderly, it can put them in contact with the right people who can help them through a tough month, or a tough situation.”

            “That’s the way we do it in Pittsburgh, because here, in this city, we don’t leave our friends behind.”

            “Preservation of home ownership has always been a top priority for our community and this partnership of PHFA, Allegheny County and the four private utility companies will advance that work by providing energy retrofits and budget counseling that will strengthen home ownership,” said Larry Swanson, Executive Director of ACTION-Housing, Inc.

            ACTION-Housing and PHFA have been contacting potential clients since developing the strategy, and have thus far received interest from “about 450” mortgagees.

            “In Western Pennsylvania, we don’t like to reach our hand out for help,” says Morgan O’Brien, President and CEO of Peoples Natural Gas. “It is our hope that the program will serve as a resource to many families within our communities.”

            “We need to encourage people to participate,” says Mark R. Kempic, President of Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. “This can save our customers money, save energy, provide them with a better feeling living in their homes, and help the Western Pennsylvania economy by providing jobs for over 100 contractors hired to do these ‘retrofits’.”

            “When customers have the opportunity to make better energy choices,” says Michele Sandoe, Duquesne Light Vice President of Customer Care, “better decisions will allow them to have more disposable income, and our neighbors and our families will be better able to maintain their homeownership.

            “What Equitable Gas is seeing from customer surveys time and time again is the importance of getting energy efficiency and conservation information so they can save money on their energy bills,” says Scott Waitlevertch, External Communication and Governmental Relations Manager for Equitable. “Utilities have been very good at trying to provide that, but it’s these unique opportunities focusing on housing that can really benefit the residents of Allegheny County.”

            “We are grateful for the leadership  and support of PHFA, Action-Housing, Congressman Doyle, Senator Jay Costa and the utility companies I providing this program to our residents,” says Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.  “This is a unique partnership that allows us to focus services on vulnerable homeowners and make energy efficiency  improvements on their homes and allow them to use these savings to stay current on their mortgages.”

            “We will track the savings on energy,” says Hudson, “If successful, and if we do it well, we hope to duplicate this similar to the way we did HEMAP (Homeowners Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program).”

            Programs like this “will become more and more necessary until we get our (Federal) budget straightened out,” Doyle says. “We hope to share this nationally like we did HEMAP.”

            “This is a win-win situation. We can coordinate all our efforts.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

“The Chief was naive about how the whole process worked,” say attorneys for former Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Chief Nate Harper.

            “In the light of day, he recognizes that [his conduct] is unacceptable and criminal.”

            The statement came in light of Friday’s presentation of a five-count indictment against Harper, charging him with failure to file personal Federal income taxes from 2008 through 2011, and one count of conspiracy to engage in the theft of public money.

            The conspiracy charges results from the lengthy investigation still underway into irregularities in funds handling within the Bureau of Police. The Grand Jury indictment says the charges rise to the level of a felony against the Federal Government, Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds, because the city is a recipient of  those funds for various programs, which are then commingled with funds from other sources.

            According to United States Attorney David J. Hickton, the indictment focuses primarily on the diversion of funds which were intended for deposit into regular city accounts as a result of Secondary Employment Program for police off-duty overtime jobs. Officers are scheduled for the jobs through the Special Events office, and paid by the city, which charges an administrative fee of $3.85 per hour, due to city coffers, to outside employers to recoup city costs for the service and potential liabilities.

            “A vendor who is approved for the off-duty police program makes a payment to the Office of Special Events,” says Hickton, “and that payment is then processed through the Office of Personnel and Finance, and routes its way through the Treasury Office of the city of Pittsburgh. Invoices follow that to document that the money made its way to the proper place.”

            This “diversion occurred at the Office of Personnel and Finance. That’s where the conspiracy occurred, that’s where the diversion occurred to create accounts off-books in the Police Credit Union,” Hickton says. “Then these accounts, which had debit cards associated with them, were accessed by Mr. Harper.”

            The indictment charges that in June of 2008, Harper instructed an employee of the Bureau of Police to open an account with the Pittsburgh Police Federal Credit Union titled “IPF,” with Harper as signatory and one of eight individuals who was assigned a debit card on that account.

            In 2010, Harper had an employee obtain two debit cards on a second account, the Special Events Account, which had been opened in 2004 at the Credit Union. Harper was also a signatory on that account.

            Beginning in 2008, the Grand Jury found that Harper instructed employees to divert checks and cash received by the Special Events office through the Secondary Employment Program to those accounts, using VISA debit cards to both withdraw funds at ATMs and to make purchases for his own personal use.

            Hickton says the investigation to date shows that the “total diverted is over $70,000,” with the amount attributed to Harper’s personal misuse exceeding $31,000 between 2008 and 2012.

            A “representative sampling” of debit transactions range in amount from $53 to $303 (amounts presumably ending in “3” due to bank processing fees for “out of network charges,”). Representative samples of debit card purchases include perfume and gift cards, ladder accessories and a $700 “oven upgrade,” in addition to food and liquor purchases at areas restaurants around the greater Pittsburgh area, including downtown, Oakland, Shadyside, Fox Chapel and Monroeville.

            Investigators say that they are confident that the charges are for personal use, not business, but that “the diversion itself was improper.”

            “I am satisfied that these are not legitimate expenditures,” Hickton says. “It was improper to divert the money in the first place, and it was certainly not proper to spend it on himself.”

            “As a general matter, it’s very difficult to answer why a person who’s charged with a crime did what they did,” says Hickton. “I think it’s particularly difficult in the case of Nate Harper, who spent his career in law enforcement.”

            The investigation began in October 2012 with inquiries into a security firm called Alpha Outfitters which allegedly obtained what amounted to a no-bid contract with the city. Harper has not been charged or implicated in that matter, but that investigation is ongoing.

            “If I had a long time, I don’t think I could answer, or would be inclined to answer,” questions of why Harper would become involved in the conspiracy with “some [persons] known and some unknown to the Grand Jury,” Hickton says. “I would be happy to say this is puzzling and baffling behavior, and it’s a sad day.”

            Harper Attorney Robert Del Greco, Jr., says “the slippery slope of using a credit card in your pocket for private matters probably, somehow, became an irresistible temptation, and he did it. And he admitted it.”

            Attorneys say Harper “had no good explanation except that he had some ‘personal matters.’ He just procrastinated [about filing tax returns].”

            Harper “took full responsibility for his actions,” says co-Counsel Robert Leicht. “It’s just bad judgment on his part.”

            Harper appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Robert C. Mitchell at 2 pm Friday afternoon to enter a plea on the charges, which Del Greco says result from a “fair indictment.” Harper initially entered a plea of  “not guilty,” but attorneys for the former Chief say they expect to change that plea to “guilty,” expediting the trial process by eliminating the need to wait for a May 6 hearing for “pre-trial motions.”

            Barring further charges, Harper could be sentenced based on Federal guidelines at the discretion of the judge following a “pre-trial evaluation” to determine his existing criminal history which appears to be non-existent prior to this indictment.

            “The fact that he’s charged with one count of conspiracy of theft of public funds doesn’t surprise us,” Del Greco said at a press conference following Harper’s court appearance. “We knew about the ’08, ’09, ’10 and ’11 failure to pay taxes, and so, that is what it is, and it’s indefensible.”

            The charges are “a felony, a federal offense that’s cost him his career, possibly his pension,” Del Greco says, adding that his team hopes these factors, in addition to Harper’s honesty with investigators, will help to lighten Harper’s penalty from the maximum allowable 10 years imprisonment and a $650,000 fine.

            “The range we come up with is 10-16 months, and obviously his cooperation would become known to the sentencing judge,” Leicht says. “He’s been truthful every time he’s been approached, and we hope that would be taken into consideration,” although no plea agreement has been reached.

            “That simply doesn’t exist at this point,” Del Greco says.

            Hickton says he cannot forecast whether or not future indictments are forthcoming against either Harper or the “persons known or unknown to the Grand Jury,” whose term expired Friday, but “we are committed to follow the evidence wherever it leads us. We will use all the tools we have to do this, but procedurally how we go about that, or what timetable we’re on, I cannot say.”

            Harper did not appear at the press conference held by his attorneys because, Leight says, “he is embarrassed and distraught.”

            In a statement, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said Friday was “a sad day for the Bureau of Police, and for the city of Pittsburgh. We will work tirelessly to rebuild the Bureau and to ensure that Pittsburgh remains one of the nation’s safest cities.”

            Three mayoral candidates all pledged to work to ensure this could not happen again.

            Current City Controller Michael Lamb called the charges disappointing, reminding the public to remember “the hard work of the rest of the police department, whose members work hard to keep us safe and secure.”

            Former State Auditor General Jack Wagner says he will “work to restore trust in the leadership of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.”

            “It’s tragic that after serving so many years on the Pittsburgh police force, that Nate Harper’s career ends in this manner,” says City Council Member and Mayoral candidate Bill Peduto. “As a city, we need to make sure our government is open and accountable.”

            Acting Police Chief Regina McDonald emphasized that the indictments did not implicate the remainder of the Bureau.

            “The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police wants to reassure the residents of the city of Pittsburgh that our officers and civilian personnel are dedicated, hardworking professionals who will continue to protect and serve the City of Pittsburgh to the best of our ability.”

            “As best we can determine, he is wholly loved by the citizens of Pittsburgh and by the police force,” Del Greco says. “No one ever had the impression he was a bully, he came up through the ranks, he had a 36-year unblemished record in law enforcement.”

            “Hopefully he will survive this, we’re sure he’ll survive this. It’s a great sting to him now.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

Students at Pittsburgh Barack Obama Institute of International Studies served not only as an introduction to the candidates in the 2013 Mayoral Primary, but also introduced several of the future leaders of Pittsburgh. 

Hosted by the Pittsburgh Youth and Government Chapter, all six candidates accepted the invitation to address the concerns of young voters and voters-to-be from the city’s public schools. The event, open to the public, “run by students, run by a school,” according to Ben Junker, Youth Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, “brings youth into the political decision-making process,” and drew attendees from the city schools, but also many others interested in hearing the candidates positions on issues affecting the city.

Moderator Erik Rauterkus, the current Youth Governor of Pennsylvania, guided fellow students and PYGC members Sadik Roberts, Senior Class President at Obama, Annie Widdom,  a senior at Obama, and Dynae Shaw, also a senior at Obama and a member of A+ Schools’ TeenBloc in asking questions of City Council President Darlene Harris, City Controller Michael Lamb, City Councilman Bill Peduto,  Community Activist AJ Richardson, former State Auditor General Jack Wagner and State Representative Jake Wheatley.
Students formulated the questions over a period of weeks, designed to address their political concerns but also to hopefully unveil the candidates’ positions that would most affect their own lives in the future, prompting Wagner to comment that “many of the questions being asked today are better than the media questions that we get.”

“Of course this debate is being held by a school and is being carried out by students,” Rauterkus says, “so it’s very fitting to start out with the topic of education.”

One concern, says Roberts, is that students currently within the Pittsburgh Public Schools are having difficulty meeting the requirements to attain post-secondary education funding from the Pittsburgh Promise Scholarship fund.

“What do you feel your role as Mayor should be, to help out city schools?”

Harris was first to answer, citing her experience as a former member of the Pittsburgh Board of Education in emphasizing community involvement, a theme with the majority of her answers. “We can’t do it alone. We need to have the leadership of the community, the leadership of the schools, and the leadership of the city working together.”

Lamb says it’s important for the mayor to act as a cheerleader for students in the schools, but also feels that city programs would make an important difference in closing the gap which develops during summer vacations.

“Education is the cornerstone of every 21st Century city,” Peduto says. “We need to start not in high school, but at 5 years old.” Peduto also feels that programs in place or to be developed can provide mentors for students, especially in the after-school hours, to encourage them to value education.

A safe environment is also important, said Widdom, asking how the mayor could help to provide that.
“We have to develop a unified entirety where we are of one accord,” says Richardson, citing the proverb “It takes a village to raise one child.”

Wagner says the mayor should work in unison with the school board to get greater resources from the state to provide ways to keep students in school and prevent dropouts. “The mayor needs to be the strongest advocate of public education, especially for funding.”
Revenues generated for school funding from taxation of for-profit industry have disappeared, Shaw says, asking the candidates what could be done to address the loss now that the city’s major employers are non-profit institutions.

All the candidates agreed that this was a major issue, with Wagner saying he believes that “making three and four hundred millions of dollars a year was never the true intent” of non-profit status.

Peduto agreed. “We need to make these non-profits accountable to the host municipalities. They have to pay back their fair share: Accountable to the people who are their clients; accountable to your workers; and accountable to your community.”

“We also need fairness in taxation to be able to pay for our educational system,” Peduto says, “We need to close the Delaware Loophole” that allows companies to operate businesses in the state but pay no taxes.

“We have to appeal to their sense of integrity,” Richardson says.
“Profitable non-profits need to kick in,” Wagner says. “The Promise is not enough.”

Harris also feels that the mayor must continuously lobby Harrisburg to bring more funding to the schools. “[Philadelphia] Mayor Nutting is constantly up in Harrisburg lobbying.”

Roberts asked the candidates if any had “a concrete plan to reduce crime in our city.”

Peduto emphasized his interest in decentralizing the Bureau of Police, returning the force to the “zone” system previously in place. “We all know the different needs” of our neighborhoods, Peduto says.

“We need transparent accountability that something is being done,” Peduto says. “Bring back community policing, cops on the beat who know the people. Change the culture of our police.” 

“Our children need to feel safe,” says Lamb. “We need to get more police on the streets. Civilians should be doing paperwork, and officers should be on the streets.”

Lamb also says that the city could use Workforce Development Funds to train young African-Americans so they can be ready to attend the police academy. “We need to diversify the police department in a meaningful way.”

Illegal guns are another issue of concern for the young debate hosts. Widdom referred to the city’s 2010 Ordinance, as yet unsigned by Mayor Ravenstahl and unenforced due to what the current administrations says are Constitutional concerns.
Given that, Widdom says, “What steps would you take to curb gun violence?”

Wheatley says that efforts to pass a lost and stolen gun ordinance at the state level failed due to similar concerns. “We need to understand that guns and violence isn’t just a law enforcement issue,” he says, “but a communal issue.”
“As mayor, I would sign and enforce that legislation,” says Wagner, “but the best tool for crime prevention is employment. Twenty years ago I was president of City Council and passed an assault weapons ban. If that legislation was still in place three or four years ago, three police officers may not have died.”

Shaw asked what the candidates could and have done to limit corruption.

Peduto cited a large number of efforts he has spearheaded which he says resulted in his selection as Common Cause’s “first Pennsylvanian in 13 years” to win an award for good government, including ethics reform and campaign finance reform.

“What we need is a complete cleaning,” Peduto says. “We don’t need a Redd Up crew only in our neighborhoods; we need a Redd Up crew at City Hall.”

“As a child, I remember when my mother used to send me off to school,” Richardson says, “she’d say ‘You watch that wrong crowd,’ meaning we have to be careful of who we surround ourselves with. We have to be mindful that we can be influenced as well as influence.”

“We need a different approach,” Wheatley says. “The newspapers are saying ‘corrupt politicians,’ but it’s corrupt processes that damage our system and keep it from working.”

“Some people are good, and some people are not,” says Harris. “We have to make sure the people who work for the city will work for you.”

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” says Lamb. “Open the windows on city government.”

Students’ concern about economic issues also brought about questions. 

Candidates offered opinions about how to attract and how to retain businesses in the city. All candidates feel that small businesses are the future of commerce in Pittsburgh, but that “we have to make sure that Pittsburgh is the smart decision,” Lamb says. “We have to suggest ways to have growth that brings community jobs, not just for the benefit of real estate developers.”

“There’s a delicate balance between our businesses and our community,” Wheatley says. “Developing our human capital so they can compete and provide a living for their families.”

How to encourage these bright young adults to return to the city after they have taken advantage of the Pittsburgh Promise and received their educations?

“We can go farther than the Pittsburgh Promise,” says Wagner. “We have to see that our  young people can find employment in the summer, and we do that so they can find a head start on employment, part of a ‘real-life’ work experience while they’re going to school, and a leg up on job opportunities in this region.”

“Pittsburgh has changed, and city government has to change too,” says Peduto, “It’s about changing priorities.”

“Where are you going to work, where are you going to live, and how are you going to get there,” Peduto asked. “We have to support our entrepreneurs, whether it’s a software engineer at CMU or someone who wants to open a transmission shop in Homewood. We need to invest in people, not buildings. Create creative living spaces where people want to live, and they’ll come back.”

“Finally, and most importantly,” Peduto says, “we need a 21st Century Public Transit system, and a mayor who works with our County Executive to make it happen.”

“In four years, we need to be a city that is known for diversity, where people’s rights are protected,” says Richards. “A change is coming for the City of Pittsburgh.”

By Nancy Hart
nancy@urbanmediatoday.com
Twitter: @nhart543 

Since 2010, Pittsburgh has been ranked by the League of American Bicyclists as a “Bronze-Level” Bicycle Friendly City.

            The city’s connection to 75 miles of bike trails, as well as the Ravenstahl administration’s commitment to a series of bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly initiatives, like additional bike racks, directional signage and pavement marking of approximately 50 miles of bike lanes and “shared-road arrows,” have resulted in the city’s ranking as 16th in the nation in bike use.

            But what about commuters who use public or private transportation to reach a destination such as the workplace, only to find they need a means to make a short trip during the day?

            Monday morning, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl joined with  officials from Bakery Square, BikePGH and others to announce a new “bike-share system” to be implemented city-wide in 2014.

            “Bike share programs like this are critically important to attract and retain the talent we have here in places like Google, in places like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh,” Ravenstahl said to the crowd assembled at Bakery Square in East Liberty, “to have that cool, young vibrant city that many of those young investors want.”

            An initial rollout of 50 solar-powered “docking stations,” with 500 available bikes, will see the rental stations in place throughout the city, facilitating bike commutes between neighborhoods for workers, commuters or tourists. Annual memberships, at a cost of $75 will provide a key with which to access the sturdy bicycles at the kiosk locations, while $25 monthly, $15 three-day and $7 24-hour passes obtained with a credit card at the stations will accommodate tourists or those who would like to try out the system without a long-term commitment.

            The bikes themselves are meant to be for short-term, one-way rentals.

            “If, for instance you were working here [at Bakery Square] or visiting here, then wanted to grab a bike and go to one of our other neighborhoods, you could do that,” Ravenstahl says. “The 50 locations throughout the city will allow people to do just that without having to use their vehicle. It of course promotes healthy living and clean air, all while making it easier to visit our wonderful and diverse neighborhoods.”

            “Despite the challenges of the topography in Pittsburgh, we have increased bike commuting by 300 percent in the last decade.”

            A new non-profit organization, the Pittsburgh Bike Share Partnership (PBSP) is forming an alliance thus far composed of the City of Pittsburgh, Walnut Capital Management and Bike Pittsburgh to design and implement the project with direction from Alta Bicycle Share, a multi-modal transportation design firm. The PBSP is in the process of securing $400,000 in matching funds from local foundations, and an additional $1 million from corporate partners to leverage a $1.6 million grant from the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s “Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program” to fund the design and implement the first phase of the program.

            The PBSP hopes to increase corporate and foundation partnerships so they can expand the system to 1000 bikes at 100 locations in its second year.

            “We are so excited to announce that Bike Share is coming to Pittsburgh,” says Scott Bricker, Executive Director of BikePGH. “This is a big deal. We didn’t just get here all of a sudden: We’ve been working on making Pittsburgh a more bike-friendly city for eleven years.”

            Phil Goff of Alta Planning says that Bike Share offers cities the opportunity to become “more green, healthier, more vibrant and more economically competitive.”

            By replacing trips by auto, Goff says, congestion will be reduced, and air quality will improve. “Also, in Boston, over 700,000 trips have resulted in only one injury that resulted in hospitalization. Think of any other mode of transportation” which boasts such a safety record.

            “This city contains the key ingredients for a successful system,” Goff says. “It’s a dense city, with multiple business districts and multiple employment centers. There’s already a high percentage of people walking or taking transit, a large number of students.”

            The initial stations will be placed downtown, the “near” east side, East Liberty, the Hill District, the South Side Flats, the Strip, Lawrenceville, Oakland, Shadyside and Bloomfield. Goff says Alta’s projections show an estimated quarter-million trips in the first year, supported by 4000 annual members and 40,000 “casual members.”

            Walnut Capital has included “bike-friendly enhancements” in its new developments like Bakery Square 2.0, and PBSP hopes other developers throughout the city will join in including such features.

            Goff says the system is meant to “fill in the gaps of what’s a little too far to walk,” not for long-term or daylong rentals. Fees for the systems will include additional charges for keeping the bikes too long.

            “It’s planned to be station-to-station,” says Bricker, adding that the system includes a redistribution plan to move bikes from filled stations to those running low on bikes. A website and mobile app called “Spotcycle” are planned so potential commuters can assess bike or “docking spot” availability.

            “If you go over 30 minutes, there will be overtime charges,” Bricker says, adding that he expects “overtime” fees, which have not yet been established, to be on a scale from “about $2 for a half hour” to a maximum of about $100 for more than 24 hours, as is the case in other cities with the program.

            “If you want a bike for the day, go to a local bike-rental shop and get a bike from them. Support your local businesses.”

            Community meetings have been scheduled to discuss the bike share system and review the first 50 proposed locations.

            The first will be held at Carnegie-Mellon University in the McKenna-Peter-Wright Rooms on the second floor of the University Center on Tuesday, April 2 at 6 pm. The second will be held Downtown in Point Park University’s Lawrence Hall Ballroom at 201 Wood Street on Wednesday, April 3 at noon.

            For more details about the program, or to view maps of the proposed initial locations, visit http://www.pghbikeshare.org/.

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

Since discovering his African American heritage at the age of 34, writer and actor Michael Fosberg has been working to help Americans confront ugly truths about race and identity. Tene’ Croom talked to Fosberg about how he found out he was African American, something he chronicled in Incognito: An American Odyssey of Race and Self-Discovery. He’s working on a new book entitled, Do We Have to Talk About It? Straight Talk on Race and Identity in America, scheduled for release later this year. Photowww.wolfmanproductions.com

Attending college can be one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences in your life. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or are returning to school after spending years in the workforce, it’s very important to choose a university that suits your education needs, while catering to your own interests and goals. Many African American top colleges offer competitive programs and services for their students, making it difficult to narrow down one’s choices. Before committing yourself to any alma mater, consider these suggestions on how to pick the university that is right for you.

Know what you need

For first-time college students in particular, it can be incredibly difficult to decide on one focus of study over another. Many college freshmen declare a major and then graduate years later with a completely different degree. Unless you enroll with a specific interest in mind, it is likely that your academic focus will evolve throughout your college career. That is why it is helpful to have a general understanding of your educational goals when sorting through your top college picks. Like all universities, African American top colleges typically specialize in certain areas of study. For example, one college may be known for its science and engineering programs, and another might have a strong foundation in the arts. By choosing the university that complements your academic interests, you will have the resources and feedback you need to declare your major and attain your degree.

Know what you want

Just as no man is an island, no student is a library card. There is much more to college than studying and tests. In fact, a truly well-rounded college education involves engaging with one’s peers and mentors to thrive socially as well as academically. Explore your personal interests and goals to see how they align with the extracurricular activities offered by prospective schools. Most African American top colleges feature any number of peer clubs, fraternities, and sororities, along with sport teams and other interest groups. Interacting with your fellow students, friends, and teachers outside of the classroom can go a long way in enriching your college experience, helping to build connections that last long after graduation.

Picking the university that is right for you is an involved process; one that will surely help shape your future. Such logistics as location, housing, and tuition must certainly be factored into the equation when going through your choices of African American top colleges. Though, understanding your unique educational objectives and personal endeavors is an important first step. After all, your college career is the beginning to everything that comes after. It’s a good idea to learn something and have a little fun along the way.

news@urbanmediatoday.com        Photo:howard.edu

Can preschool help to ward off school dropouts and criminal behavior?

            An organization called “Fight Crime: Invest in Kids” says the answer is yes.

            Pittsburgh Assistant Chief of Police Maurita Bryant, an active member of the organization, joined Petersburg, Virginia Chief John I. Dixon III and executives from Fight Crime to present a report titled “A Better Way: A Safe and Successful Future for More African-American Children in Pittsburgh.”

            The report cites numerous studies which show that children who are enrolled in high-quality pre-Kindergarten programs cut crime by helping students become more successful academically, and thus, less likely to become involved in crime, either as a perpetrator or as a victim.

            “We have to invest in children,” Bryant says. “They’re our future. High-quality education is one of the best ways for all kids to succeed. We know what works.”

            The group applauds Governor Tom Corbett’s proposal to increase funding by $3 million for his Rising STARS initiative, begun in 2002 as a way increase children’s access to high-quality preschool programs.  Providers receive gradually-increasing reimbursements from the state by meeting standards for teacher quality, quality classroom environment, relationships with parents and good business practices.

            In 2011, the report says, only 68 percent of students in Pittsburgh Public Schools graduated on time, compared to 83 percent statewide. A study conducted in Chicago since 1967 compared nearly a thousand children in their Child-Parent Centers to others not in the program.. Students who were involved in the program as 3- and 4-year-olds increased graduation rates by nine percent, the study found. If graduation rates rose similarly in Pittsburgh Public Schools, the group estimates that 1500 more African-American students would earn high-school diplomas.

            Additionally, those who did not participate in the program were 70 percent more likely to be arrested for a violent crime.

            Another study conducted in Ypsilanti, Michigan, over many years, says that students randomly assigned to a high-quality preschool program were five times less likely to become “chronic offenders.” Those who did not attend the programs were more than twice as likely by age 40 to have amassed more than 10 arrests, and 50 percent more likely to be arrested for violent crimes. Those who were excluded from the program were also more likely to be arrested for drug felonies or possession of dangerous drugs.

            Jeff Kirsch, Vice-President of Fight Crime, says “crime reduction has an enormous economic impact.” In the report, the group claims that economic benefits from these programs as a result of decreased incarceration rates are as much as $11 for every dollar invested in high-quality preschools.

            Additionally, Kirsch says, that one or two years spent in a high-quality program are significant to all students: “Sharing, teamwork, discipline, standing in line are all skills that help to prepare kids for Kindergarten. All parents should be interested in providing high-quality pre-K, because it will improve their own children’s experiences.”

            Another study shows that the number of Pennsylvania children with developmental delays who were enrolled in these programs dropped by over 80 percent, reducing the need to enroll them in expensive special education programs later. Also, students who exhibit high levels of disruptive behavior in early childhood “manifest high levels of antisocial and delinquent behavior later in life.”

            Dixon says that the research included in the report “provides a road map to helping kids at risk become more productive citizens, more likely to succeed in school and less likely to become involved in crime.”

            “We need to be sure individuals are paid a decent wage so we can get high-quality people: Trained staff committed to helping children advance to the next level,” says Bryant. “We need to encourage our [Pennsylvania State] Legislators to increase block grants to provide a higher level of service” as proposed by Governor Corbett.

            Other factors that contribute to high-quality preschools are comprehensive curricula, family involvement and parent coaching, low child-to-staff ratios and screening and referrals for developmental, health and behavioral problems, all of which, the lawmakers point out, take money.

            Only 17.6 percent of Pennsylvania 3- and 4-year-olds have access to high-quality publicly funded pre-K, the law enforcement pros said, a figure confirmed by Michelle Figlar of Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children.

            “There are 6500 children on waiting lists for quality educational opportunities,” Figlar says. “We can’t let these children wait: They only get to be two, or three, or four, once.”

            Governor Corbett’s lead is significant, Kirsch says. “A five percent increase in pre-K funding adds 550” spots, while a similar increase in Head Start funding would add 210. “We hope the [Pennsylvania] Legislature supports that. The Chicago study shows a ten percent increase in graduation reduces murder and assault rates by 20 percent.”

            Bryant and Dixon then took a trip down the hall at the Homewood-Brushton YWCA where the press event was held to read a book called Police Officers On Patrol to a group of four-year-olds participating in their preschool program.

            “When people need help,” read Bryant as Dixon held a second copy so the children could see the illustrations, “we’re on patrol.”

            Even when the crime they hope to prevent is years in the future.

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Twitter: @nhart543

            

After days of speculation, including nearly an entire day with news people camped outside his office for a media opportunity he never scheduled, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today held a press conference to confirm rumors that he was suspending his re-election campaign.

            Citing his pride in a long list of accomplishments since first beginning his political career ten years ago, Ravenstahl says the city has evolved and become a better place.

            “I’m proud that we’re no longer bankrupt, I’m proud that we currently employ more people in the city of Pittsburgh than ever before,” Ravenstahl says. “I’m proud that we finally have turned the corner and see our population increasing for the first time in my lifetime.”

            Saying that he sees the Pittsburgh Promise as one of his favorite accomplishments, the Mayor also says he has done nothing he wishes he had not.

            “I’m proud of what I have achieved, things that would never have been possible for me without the strong support of my family, the voters, my tireless supporters and my incredible staff, all of whom have played a critical role in this success.”

            There’s a price to be paid for his success, though, says Ravenstahl, especially by his family and friends, and “that price has become too great to endure, and as a result I am here to announce that I am dropping my bid for reelection.”

            Ravenstahl says that “recent events,” including questions surrounding former Chief of Police Nate Harper, who resigned from his position as a result of a federal investigation of that office, and what he termed “nasty and vicious allegations levied against me and those closest to me,” in particular, questions about credit cards linked to accounts not managed by the city used  by Ravenstahl’s protection detail, brought additional stress leading to his decision.

            “I’ve done nothing wrong, and that will be proven over time,” the Mayor says.

            Ravenstahl says he is not leaving the race because of concerns about losing in the Primary Election, but rather, feels more confident that he could have won in light of support he has received since speculations began to surface.

            “There’s no ‘silver bullet,’ there’s no specific reason, really, it’s just honestly what I had been feeling for a long time,” Ravenstahl says. “I’ve probably been trying to fight that feeling for a long time, but, for whatever reason, I finally made a decision that I should have made three months ago. My timing is not too good, but I didn’t want my timing to not allow me to make the best decision.”

            “The public nature of the job is certainly something I wasn’t prepared for,” says Ravenstahl. “I dislike the ability of folks to say and do whatever they want regardless of any truth.”

            The Mayor also says that his youth may have been a factor in the difficulties he faced with fellow politicians and the media. “But it’s why I was on the David Letterman Show. I am proud to be the youngest mayor in the US; I may still be, I don’t know.”

            Ravenstahl also says that while his mother, who stood between the Mayor and his father at the conference, is in fact experiencing some health concerns, one of many other theories that circulated as a reason his potential withdrawal from the ballot, “as you can see, she looks great.”

            “I have no doubt that she will overcome and defeat [her health issues], but she is very thankful for all the prayers and support she has received over the past few days.”

            Ravenstahl says he has no plans to resign from the office, intending to fully complete the term for which he was elected. He initially rose to the position from his seat as President of City Council following the death of Mayor Bob O’Connor, then was re-elected to fulfill the remainder of O’Connor’s term before being elected again to a full four-year term.

            “We’re not going anywhere,” Ravenstahl says. “I’m still focused on doing the job.”

            “This North Side boy has lived his dream,” he says.

            While Ravenstahl has not yet decided what he will do when he leaves office, he’s not ruling anything out. His first job, he says, will be to coach his four-year-old son’s tee-ball team.

            The Mayor denies that speculation and allegations about him in the media have influenced his decision, except by making it more evident that the cost of holding office was becoming too great.  He says that he would still encourage anyone interested in public office to “go for it.”

            Refusing to endorse either of his former opponents, Ravenstahl indicates that he has a third candidate who is not currently involved in the race whom he would like to see run for the position, but refused to name the candidate.

            He says he has not yet spoken with the candidate, but would do so and encourage that person to enter the race. While he says that candidate would have his endorsement, he specifically ruled out serving in any position in the candidate’s administration.

            The identity of the “mystery candidate” immediately became the subject of speculation both among those in the room and among those following the proceedings in the media. Some of the names being floated are State Auditor General and former Pittsburgh Mayoral candidate Jack Wagner; City Councilman Corey O’Connor; fellow North Sider and former County Executive and gubernatorial candidate Dan Onorato; and former City Council President, now State Senator Jim Ferlo. Current Council President Darlene Harris has admitted that she herself “is not ruling out” a run for the post.

            Despite Ravenstahl’s lack of endorsement, both candidates who remain on the ballot wish Ravenstahl well.

            In a statement, City Controller Michael Lamb said he respects the Mayor’s decision, and looks forward to working with him for the remainder of Ravenstahl’s term.

            “As our city continues to face serious challenges, I hope to work with the Mayor, his Administration, and City Council toward our common goal of improving Pittsburgh and the lives of the people who call it home.”

            Bill Peduto, who made the same decision in 2009, said in response to the Mayor’s withdrawal that he understands the difficulty of the decision to do so, “and would like to extend our sincere best wishes to Luke Ravenstahl and his family.”

            “My campaign will continue to focus on taking Pittsburgh in a better direction, and making the city the most livable for all of our residents.”

            Ravenstahl says he has made no moves toward selecting a new Chief of Police to replace Harper.

            “It may not even be worth it for ten months,” he says.

            Saying that he has learned nothing further from investigators about their probe into city finances, Ravenstahl indicated that following his press conference, statements from the debit cards used by his bodyguards to draw from the questionable account would be presented to the media for examination, with the exception of those from retired officer Fred Crawford.

            According to Ravenstahl’s Chief of Staff, Yarone Zober, records for Crawford were unavailable because they can only be released to the cardholder, Crawford, who has been unavailable to the Mayor’s office.

            Ravenstahl says his decision to withdraw should make it easier to complete his term without the added stress of campaigning for reelection. He hopes, he says, that “the ability to do things without alienating a constituency,” he may have an easier time gaining cooperation for bolder initiatives.

            “I stand here today with no reservations,” says Ravenstahl. “I’m proud of what we’ve been able to do, and I’m proud of the city.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com

Follow me on Twitter: @nhart543

Despite a vote of confidence 24 hours earlier, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl called a press conference Wednesday evening to announce that he had asked for and received the resignation of City of Pittsburgh Police Chief Nate Harper.

            Harper, who worked with the city’s Bureau of Police for 34 years, rising through the ranks to his current position as Chief in October of 2006, is under investigation by the FBI as a result of activity previously classified as “consulting services,” and amid questions about how finances were handled within the Police Bureau.

            Ravenstahl says he was invited by Federal investigators to meet and discuss the situation surrounding Harper, but that Ravenstahl himself “has been informed by US attorneys that his is not a target of any ongoing investigation.”

            Ravenstahl attended the approximately two-hour-long meeting with FBI investigators and US Attorneys represented by both a City Attorney and personal counsel “by personal preference,” saying that he was asked questions, rather than being “presented with any” information by the Feds.

            “I learned enough today to ask the Chief to resign,” says Ravenstahl, refusing to answer questions about specifics in the case.

            “I cannot endanger an ongoing investigation,” he says.

            Ravenstahl, who says he spoke with the Chief by telephone “sometime late this afternoon,” also says that the investigation underway “has not, is not, and will not be treated politically.”

            “There are a lot of people in this city who have a tremendous amount of respect

for [Chief Harper], including me,” Ravenstahl says. “This was a very difficult day for a lot of reasons, and we’ll leave it at that.”

            “The Chief is somebody who dedicated his life to this city, and to public service.”

            “When I had the benefit of what [information] I have now, I made a decision,” says the Mayor. “I was very clear, despite the suggestions that changes needed to be made, that I wanted to have all the facts, and was very diligent in that effort.”

            “Clearly, we want to get to the bottom of anything and everything, and we pledge our support to help them do it,” Ravenstahl says. “Our goal is to dig down and get all the facts, and that work continues. By no means is it over.”

            Ravenstahl says that any decision regarding Harper’s ability to collect pension benefits from the city is a decision for the city’s Pension Board.

            Ravenstahl says he has not yet asked for the resignation or retirement of any other Bureau employees, but “changes may very well be made. We’ll meet after this to figure out what our next step is. There may very well be changes, and they very well may come in the near future.”

            The Mayor has announced that Assistant Chief Regina McDonald will assume the position of Acting Chief “indefinitely” while a search for a new permanent Chief is underway.

            “We would like to have a permanent replacement as soon as possible,” says Ravenstahl. “We want to be diligent, but work will begin immediately.”

            “We will pick up the pieces and move on. The police department will continue to do what they do, and we’ll do our best to give them the direction to move forward and restore the pride in the Bureau.”

By Nancy Hart

nancy@urbanmediatoday.com      Photo:msnbc.com

                        

CNN recently published an alarming report on December 27, 2012 about a gun control program implemented by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).  The LAPD implemented a buyback program in which citizens could “sell” firearms to police with a strict no questions asked policy in return for gift cards to grocery stores.  The story showcased a grandmother who wanted to get rid of a firearm to make her home more safe for her grandchildren.  The story then went on to show military-grade bazookas and automatic assault rifles simply handed over to the police by civilians.  Imagine what had not been turned in!

Violent crime statistics

Accurate statistics on firearms used in urban crimes (or the prevalence of violent crimes in any urban area) can be difficult to find.  An analysis of FBI crime data from 2011 by major news source MSNBC labeled Detroit, MI; St. Louis, MO; and Oakland, CA as being among the most dangerous cities in America based on violent crime rate per capita. However, many city names are frequently used to describe a sprawling metro area that can extend far beyond actual city limits (e.g. Dallas, TX).  To define the impact gun control legislature has on urban areas, one would first have to identify meaningful boundaries and definitions for urban areas that are plagued with high levels of violence and poverty.  Many firearms used to perpetrate crimes are obtained illegally.  Before implementing stringent gun laws to protect urban areas, first think about the possibility of creating a large criminal enterprise around the acquisition and vending of firearms. 

Large scale shootings

Recent horrific acts of violence involving firearms in 2012 (e.g. the mass shooting at a movie premiere in Aurora, CO and the school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newton, CT) left the nation with largely divided opinions about gun control.  Some people insist that more liberal rights to carry concealed firearms would increase safety by giving otherwise helpless victims a way to act in self-defense and possibly prevent similar tragedies.  Others think that increased enforcement of gun laws and possibly eliminating the right to bear arms would be a better course of action.  

A possible solution

As illustrated by the Los Angeles gun buyback program, grossly illegal firearms are already in the hands of civilians.  Rather than try to challenge the 2nd amendment and confiscate firearms from civilians, why not focus on reducing the need for people to perpetrate violent crimes?  The fact that people turned in illegal assault rifles for grocery money should illustrate the importance of needed societal change that extends far beyond new gun regulations. 

Urban American has been under attack for a very long time from gun violence, domestic violence and with the President announcement will his steps be helpful?  I believe that every rational person must take responsibility for their family, neighborhood, and community. Not just today but daily and report any information that they can share with law enforcement. We also know that  as a society can heal ourselves and do more so please do something good for all of us.   Please email us your suggest and thoughts to new@urbanmediatoday.com

Urban Media Today Staff  Photo:heavenleeops.wordpress.com

Making The Connection With Your College

Attending college can be one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences in your life. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or are returning to school after spending years in the workforce, it’s very important to choose a university that suits your education needs, while catering to your own interests and goals. Many African American top colleges offer competitive programs and services for their students, making it difficult to narrow down one’s choices. Before committing yourself to any alma mater, consider these suggestions on how to pick the university that is right for you.

Know what you need

For first-time college students in particular, it can be incredibly difficult to decide on one focus of study over another. Many college freshmen declare a major and then graduate years later with a completely different degree. Unless you enroll with a specific interest in mind, it is likely that your academic focus will evolve throughout your college career. That is why it is helpful to have a general understanding of your educational goals when sorting through your top college picks. Like all universities, African American top colleges typically specialize in certain areas of study. For example, one college may be known for its science and engineering programs, and another might have a strong foundation in the arts. By choosing the university that complements your academic interests, you will have the resources and feedback you need to declare your major and attain your degree.

Know what you want

Just as no man is an island, no student is a library card. There is much more to college than studying and tests. In fact, a truly well-rounded college education involves engaging with one’s peers and mentors to thrive socially as well as academically. Explore your personal interests and goals to see how they align with the extracurricular activities offered by prospective schools. Most African American top colleges feature any number of peer clubs, fraternities, and sororities, along with sport teams and other interest groups. Interacting with your fellow students, friends, and teachers outside of the classroom can go a long way in enriching your college experience, helping to build connections that last long after graduation.

Picking the university that is right for you is an involved process; one that will surely help shape your future. Such logistics as location, housing, and tuition must certainly be factored into the equation when going through your choices of African American top colleges. Though, understanding your unique educational objectives and personal endeavors is an important first step. After all, your college career is the beginning to everything that comes after. It’s a good idea to learn something and have a little fun along the way.

news@urbanmediatoday.com        Photo:howard.edu

Singer Bobby Womack has another formidable health issue that is confronting him. The 68 year old Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member thanked his fans on his website for their prayers as he acknowledged that he is facing the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. He was open about his challenges with the brain disorder. “It’s not bad yet, but it will get worse. How can I not remember songs I wrote? It’s frustrating. I don't feel together yet. Negative things come in my mind and it's hard for me to remember sometimes."

Womack successfully battled colon cancer in 2012, the same year he released an album entitled, “The Bravest Man in the Universe.” The album title takes on new significance given his announcement.

“The Bravest Man in the Universe” is filled with what you would expect from Womack – rich, stirring, soulful tunes. The songs didn’t go unnoticed from critics and won best album at the Q Awards, which are one of Britain’s top music awards. The show is organized by Q music magazine.

Womack’s solo career, going strong since 1964, includes such timeless hits as “Lookin’ For A Love” and “If You Think You’re Lonely Now.”

What about television and film? Who reigns supreme there? That question will be answered when Golden Globe awards are handed out on NBC on January 13. They are the first major awards of the new year. The Hollywood Foreign Press Association will bestow their Golden Globes on stars two days before the Academy Award nominations are announced.

Among the celebrities nominated for the coveted Golden Globe are Denzel Washington for Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama, for the movie “Flight” and Don Cheadle for Best Performance by an Actor in a TV Series, Comedy, for the Showtime series, “House of Lies.”

Here’s a quick Golden Globe history lesson. Washington, Sidney Poitier and Forest Whitaker are the only African Americans to get a Golden Globe for Best Actor. Poitier was the first African American to pick up a Golden Globe for best actor. That happened in 1964 for his stellar performance in “Lillies of the Field.”  It’s interesting to note that it wasn’t until Angela Bassett starred in the 1993 Tina Turner biopic “What’s Love Got to do With It” that an African American actress was a winner. Bassett walked away with a Golden Globe as well as an Oscar nomination for her starring role in that acclaimed film about the singer abused by her husband Ike Turner.

They made up the famous group, Ike & Tina Turner Revue, responsible for a number of hits including “Fool in Love” and “River Deep – Mountain High.”

The race for the White House and Congress in 2012 at times seemed like something straight out of a Hollywood script with a cast of not only brilliant but also unsavory characters. We will probably see a movie about the re-election of President Barack Obama. There have already been documentaries about Obama becoming the first African American president. 

Now that he’s won four more years in office, Obama must be sworn in again. The inauguration ceremony will be held January 21. Typically the President is inaugurated on January 20, but that date is on a Sunday so the ceremony was moved to Monday. However, there will still be a private swearing in on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Ticketmaster is apologizing for a snafu involving inauguration tickets. A computer malfunction left hundreds of people anxious to attend two official inaugural balls ticketless, disappointed and angry.

114 year old Mamie Rearden, the oldest living citizen has died. The Edgefield, South Carolina woman held that distinction for two weeks. Her youngest child, Sara Rearden, told one interviewer, "My mom was not president of the bank or anything, but she was very instrumental in raising a family and being a community person."

Rearden and her husband were married for 59 years until his death in 1979. They raised 11 children.

Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com           Photo:www.bobbywomack.com

While state government was closed on January 1,  new representatives were sworn in.  Ten new Republican and 19 new Democrats joined the state House of Representatives that has 111 Republicans and 91 Democrats. In the state Senate the party split is 27 Republicans and 23 Democrats.

State Representative Ed Gainey brings new leadership and a new vision to the neighborhoods that make up the 24th Legislative District.

His legislative priorities are labor issues, working-class families, transportation, education, community development and enhancement.

He most recently worked as the community development specialist for the city of Pittsburgh, where he implemented several initiatives such as business seminars, the Minority Media Initiative, diversity education for the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and The 52 Weeks of Peace Initiative.

Gainey is a board member for Divine Intervention Ministries and PROMISE organizations. He has received several community awards and certificates. His most recent award was from The New Pittsburgh Courier for being one of the 50 Men of Excellence in the Pittsburgh region. In 2010, he received the Family Life Empowerment Community Center award from the Northside Church of God and Christ for his accomplishments in community outreach. In 2009, he received the Pittsburgh and Allegheny County Public Service Awards from Champion Enterprise. He also participated in the planning and implementation of the Be A 6th Grade Mentor program, which was designed to mentor 6th graders in the Pittsburgh Public Schools.

In 2010, he became the first African-American to serve as chairman of the Pittsburgh City Democratic Committee. He currently serves as Allegheny County Democratic Committeeman in the 12th Ward 10th District.

He received a bachelor's degree in Business Management from Morgan State University in 1994. He played varsity basketball and graduated from Peabody High School in 1988.

Gainey was raised in the East Liberty section of Pittsburgh. He is married and has three children and one sister. He and his wife attend Cornerstone Baptist Church in the Lincoln Lemington section of Pittsburgh. www.pahouse.com/gainey

This is the last day of 2012. As we look ahead at a new year, let’s look back at some of the top stories that shaped what will soon be the old year.  

Democratic President Barack Obama, the first African American President, fought hard to win another four more years in office. Obama was able to do what his Republican challenger Mitt Romney just couldn’t do. He amassed a diverse following of supporters. Most of the people who voted for the former Massachusetts Governor were white men.

When all the counting was done, 93 percent of African Americans voted for Obama, along with 71 percent of Hispanics, Cubans who often cast their votes for Republicans, were among them. Obama’s melting pot of support also had 73 percent of Asians and 55 percent of female voters and a large portion of them were young and single. This overwhelming backlash against Romney was unprecedented. None of the seasoned GOP pundits saw it coming. In fact, this political tidal wave against Romney had Dick Morris and Karl Rove spinning around in circles, struggling to figure it out. Morris was responsible for helping to get former President Bill Clinton elected and Rove is considered the “architect” of both of former President George W. Bush’s victories. But on Election Day 2012, the two of them looked like kids playing musical chairs without a chair to sit on.

Morris had predicted a Romney landslide on the FOX News channel. After the balloting he was back on FOX making an admission to host Bill O’Reilly, “I under-counted the minority turnout and women and young people, single women. I thought that the 2008 turnout was a fluke.”

Obama will be sworn in to his second and final second term in office on Sunday, January 13, 2013.

Republicans made some black history in election 2012 albeit not by the ballot.  South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint, who left Congress to head the Heritage Foundation, was replaced by Congressman Tim Scott. Scott’s appointment resulted in him becoming the first black senator in the history of South Carolina. In addition, not since Blanche Bruce of Mississippi, in office from 1875 through 1881, has there been a black Senator from any Southern state.

The death of 17 year old Trayvon Martin is one that gripped the nation. Martin was inside the Sanford, Florida, gated community of his father’s fiancée, returning home from the store. He had some candy and a soft drink. 28 year old George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer, shot and killed him during a confrontation. Zimmerman is claiming self-defense under Florida's controversial "stand-your-ground" law, which gives broad legal protection to anyone who says they used deadly force because they feared death or great bodily harm. His trial is set for next year. Martin’s family contends that Zimmerman had no reason to follow their son and subsequently murder him.

There were a number of senseless shootings, many deadly, across America this year. But, the call for gun control became almost deafening after the shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut in December that left 27 people dead, including 20 children, who were six and seven years old. The shooter 20 year old Adam Lanza, said to be a loner suffering from autism, killed himself when he heard police approaching at Sandy Hook elementary school. His first victim that day was his mother whom he lived with. She was a gun enthusiast. The weapons he used to commit the slaughter included her Bushmaster semiautomatic rifle that he’d gotten from their home.

Another tragic shooting was in Aurora, Colorado, at a theater showing the Batman film, “The Dark Knight Rises.” James Holmes, who wore a helmet, gas mask, bulletproof vest, throat and groin protectors along with tactical gloves, opened fire and left 12 people dead.  He’s awaiting trial.

In entertainment news, the death of Whitney Houston is number one. She clearly struggled to overcome her demon of drug addiction. But it overtook her. Houston, the golden voiced multi award winning singer and actress died in a tragic way in Los Angeles. She was discovered in her hotel room face down in a water-filled bathtub with drug paraphernalia nearby. The coroner reported she died of accidental drowning. The report also said that a "small spoon with a white crystal like substance in it and a rolled-up piece of white paper" were found in the bathroom where Houston died.

Kevin Costner who starred with her in the blockbuster movie, “ The Bodyguard” was among the many stars who made remarks at her funeral in New Jersey, "The inexplicable burden that comes with fame, call it doubt, call it fear, I've had mine," Costner said. "The Whitney I knew was still wondering if I'm good enough. Am I pretty enough? Will they like me? It was what made her great, and what caused her to stumble at the end."

Her last movie was in 2012 a remake of “Sparkle.” Houston was 48.

Other celebrity deaths included Dick Clark of “American Bandstand” fame, 82 years old, Don Cornelius, creator of “The Soul Train,” 75 years old, actor Sherman Helmsley of “The Jeffersons” 74 years old, singer Etta James, 73 years old and singer Donna Summer, 63 years old.

Reach Tene’ at tene.croom.tc@gmail.com.