The dark, gritty and brutally urban new movie, “Brooklyn’s Finest,” was brought to the big screen by one of Pittsburgh’s finest, director and executive producer, Antoine Fuqua.

“Brooklyn’s Finest,” an intense story that disjointedly chronicles the lives of three Brooklyn police officers comes alive with an ensemble cast of heavyweight actors, including  Richard Gere who plays Eddie, a disillusioned, burnt-out, veteran cop who is into his last week on the job before retirement. He’s become jaded and complacent, almost numbed by all he has witnessed in his many years on the job. He just wants to end his law enforcement career without waves.

ANTOINE FUQUA

Then there’s Don Cheadle as Tango, an undercover narc who has reached the limit dealing with thugs and the game, but keeps getting the run- around from his superiors about getting out. And Ethan Hawke, who plays Sal the cop who is just trying to do for his growing family and sickly wife. Under enormous financial strain, he just wants to provide, all while dealing with the grime and crime on the Brooklyn streets.

by Allison Whittenberg
For New Pittsburgh Courier

In 1939, when Hattie McDaniel made world history by being the first African-American to win an Oscar, her “Gone with the Wind” co-star Olivia de Havilland reportedly left the ballroom in tears. She, too, was nominated as Best Supporting Actress and she wanted to be recognized for her stellar work in this iconic film. Of course, Ms. de Havilland had no need to fret for within a few short years she would snag several plum roles where she could shine and be recognized. She won the coveted statue not just once but twice. But fate wouldn’t shine upon McDaniel so brightly.

HATTIE McDANIEL

This week I visited Billy’s Gold in Homewood, Questions Night Club in the Strip District, Tim’s Lounge in the Hill District, Chocolate City in Homewood, Kenny’s Place in the Hill District and Olive or Twist in Downtown Pittsburgh.

My first stop was Billy’s Gold in Homewood where the grown folks come to hang out and get their party and drink on. This is a 30 and over establishment, so no young bucks allowed.

Birthday celebrations took place at Chocolate City in Homewood and the place was packed with people.

(NNPA)—Dear Gwendolyn:

For the past four years my daughter has been the top scorer of her high school basketball team. I just learned the scholarship that was supposed to be awarded to her has been given to another girl whose scores do not come close to my daughter’s.

My husband was laid off from his job two years ago and my salary is less than $30,000 per year. Receiving a scholarship for basketball is the only way our daughter can attend college. It is so unfair. What can we do?—Gloria