PAC seeks Nutter’s attendance at meeting
Members of the city’s Police Advisory Commission this week voted unanimously to invite Mayor Nutter to their September community meeting.
The commissioners are in a dispute with PAC executive director William M. Johnson over whether he’s supervised by them or by Everett A. Gillison, the city’s public-safety director.
The public meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 19 at a location not yet set.
Commissioners said Nutter’s attendance would be useful in clarifying their supervisory and policy-making responsibilities.
But Nutter spokesperson Mark McDonald indicated the mayor won’t be attending.
“If PAC commissioners have issues, they can take them up with [Gillison],” McDonald said in an email. “The Nutter administration understands the concerns of some PAC members, and we are working through them together.”
In other business Aug. 15, commissioners discussed the case of Nizah Morris, a transgender woman found with a fatal head wound in 2002 after receiving a courtesy ride from police.
Commissioners plan to visit the District Attorney’s office within the next few weeks to view its Morris investigative records.
PAC attorney Michael B. Hayes said that, after the visit, he will try to obtain written confirmation from the D.A. that all Morris investigative materials in the office’s possession were shown at the visit.
Commissioners also said the D.A.’s office provided a four-page list of Morris documents that cannot be copied at the visit.
Commissioners said they need more time before deciding whether the list will be released to the public.
The 19-member PAC, created in 1993, oversees investigations of alleged police misconduct and issues recommendations for remedial action when appropriate.
— Tim Cwiek
Calcutta House fundraiser
Flying Carpet Café and Bar will host a fundraising social to benefit HIV/AIDS service organization Calcutta House at 6 p.m. Aug. 25.
The venue, at 1841 Poplar St., will feature an art auction with works from local artist Justin Hinte and photographer Celeste Hardester, with half of the proceeds from the auction going to Calcutta House, which provides housing and other support services to those with HIV/AIDS.
The $30 admission includes hors d’oeuvres and drink specials.
For more information, contact Joe Tozzi at 267-687-4760 or [email protected].
Black Pride scholarship
Philadelphia Black Gay Pride is seeking applications for a scholarship program that will assist college-bound youth.
The scholarship, up to $500 for the fall semester, is available to LGBTQ-identified students ages 17-21.
Applicants must be accepted to an accredited four-year university or trade school to be eligible.
The online application, due by Aug. 31, is online at www.phillyblackpride.org.
For more information, call D’Ontace Keyes at 773-366-4683.
— Jen Colletta