The Courier recently found that the number of new Black police recruits is declining. We asked Pittsburgher what they felt could reverse this trend. Here’s what you said:

“Start early with young people, say in middle school, making them more aware of the importance of careers in that area and preparing themselves earlier on; learning about them and finding people who could mentor them so that they can ultimately become one of the positive people on the police force.”
Shirley Biggs
Highland Park
Emeritus Faculty, Pitt

Shirley Biggs, Roger Green, Michelle Biggs

Billed as “the biggest show of the year,” the “Rip the Runway Fashion Show” and the “T.I. Welcome Home Party” ended up being more of a rip-off, according to attendees.

The May 22 show held at the Monroeville Convention Center was to feature clothing from T.I.’s new clothing line, Akoo, in addition to other urban wear by Argyle Culture, Coogi, Apple Bottom, Pastries and Rocawear.

VIP?—Those with VIP tickets got to see the rapper T.I. at a distance and fans tried to get photos and talk to him.

Local artists, including the dance group, District 78; Mano y Mano; Black and Gold Boys; Undalords; Lady Homi; Boaz; Streetz; Clark Kent: Kid Klash; Quizzle the Cannon; Waan Santiago and Danielle Yvonne, performed as models strutted across the cat walk. However, T.I. never performed and didn’t show up until after midnight. The show was billed to be from 9-11 p.m.

Diabetes education

JUNE 2—UPMC Passavant will host a Diabetes Education Series from 1-3:30 p.m. at 9100 Babcock Blvd., McCandless. The series will teach individuals and loved ones how to manage the disease with techniques suggested by the American Diabetes Association. Attendees will learn how to administer insulin and medication, monitoring blood glucose and proper diets and exercise regimens. Registration is requested. For more information, call 412-367-6887.

When it comes to school and the parents’ role in their child’s education, many say where are all the Black men? But on May 21, the Pittsburgh Public Schools demonstrated that fathers have a role and are stepping up at the district’s 12th Annual “Take A Father to School Day.”

Schools within the Pittsburgh Public School System invited students to bring their fathers or any male role model in their life to school for a day of activities.

PRECIOUS MOMENTS—From left: Troy and Natala Gonzalez share a bonding moment as he lends a hand with a classroom assignment.

“It was unbelievable. We are extremely proud and happy (at the participation). We are still getting the numbers in, but this event proves that if people want men to get involved, they just have to ask,” said Mark Brentley Sr., event founder and Pittsburgh Public School board member. “This day shows students that someone is interested in them and their education."