With state budget decisions looming, many are worried what effect the ever present recession will have on education funding.

In May, President Barack Obama’s administration began struggling to push through legislation that would provide $23 billion in emergency support to preserve education jobs. The bill is aimed at helping more than 100,000 teachers who have been laid off across the country.

GRADUATING CLASS OF OLIVER HIGH SCHOOL—As teachers are laid off across the country, who will be left to lead tomorrow’s graduates?

“It is crucial that we keep our teachers in the classroom,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “Our teachers are vital to our students’ success, our economy’s success and our nation’s success. We must act now to prevent teachers from being laid off and ensure that America’s students have the knowledge and skills to succeed in the 21st century.”

The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh has cleared the way for projects to begin in several of the city’s Black neighborhoods.

Chief among the items authorized during its July 8 meeting of the URA board was the purchase and transfer of 18 lots along Centre Avenue to the YMCA as the site for its new Thelma Lovette facility. The properties, valued at $237,250, include 14 lots that stretch from 2108 to 2140 Centre Ave. and another four on Hemans Street that will serve as a parking lot.

YMCA representative Phil Jones said the bulk of $13 million in funding is in place and he expects construction to begin in late August or early September.

(Part two of a series)

When most people think about the military draft, enforced for several U.S. wars, their thoughts are negative. But for Lt. Col. George N. Charlton Jr. the draft led to a long worthwhile career.

“I consider myself fortunate. I would’ve never volunteered,” said Charlton, 87. “If I had it my way, after everyone graduates from high school, they would enlist, get some discipline. I would recommend it for everyone—boys and girls.”

HISTORIC SNAPSHOTS—Lt. George Charlton reflects on military photos taken by former Pittsburgh Courier photographer Teenie Harris.

In 1943, Charlton was drafted into the army where he would soon serve as a Buffalo Soldier in World War II. After he completed his training in California, the war would take him to parts of Africa and Italy, but he would not be alone.

Recently Shop ’n Save announced it will build a store in the Hill District, so we ask residents how they felt about it. Here’s what you said:

“I think it’s wonderful. It took long enough to get it up here and I hope it stays a long time. It’s something that we needed. It’s good for their business and good for the Hill.”
Darryl Brown
Cook
Hill District