Sunday, December 14, 2003

By Michelle K. Massie, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

When Angela Jackson lived in the Bay Area in California, social options were plentiful. Since she's moved to the Pittsburgh area, the options are fewer but not nonexistent.

	.John Heller, Post-Gazette Angela Jackson, 25, works with families at the Homewood Community Center. Click photo for larger image.

"Pittsburgh seems kind of slow to me only because of where I'm from, which has everything going on. But I've gotten used to the pace here," Jackson said. "Pittsburgh offers just enough where I can be content. ... It has potential. There is a young energy that is breathing life into things."

The 25-year-old frequents venues and events that offer artistic and cultural diversity, including the Shadow Lounge, a monthly dance night at Jimmy Tsang's restaurant and affairs hosted by popular Pittsburgh deejay Nate Da Phat Barber and the BridgeSpotters Collective. She enjoys everything from poetry readings to hip-hop showcases to places where she can dance, mingle and relax.

As she speaks between bites of a vegetable wrap at the East End Food Co-op cafe, Jackson's regal, red-hued afro bounces slightly as she gestures with her hands.

"I'm multidimensional, and it's hard to find someone who's well-rounded," she said. "I'm political and active, and I also enjoy dancing and going out."

Jackson, who is also an artist, is a native of Berkeley, Calif. She moved to Pittsburgh two years ago to attend graduate school at the University of Pittsburgh. She has since received her master's degree in social work and works as a youth program coordinator for Community Empowerment Association, Inc., an East End community organization. She resides in Point Breeze.

Jackson said what kept her in Pittsburgh following graduation was her commitment to help improve the condition of African-Americans, especially black youth, in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County.

"I'm definitely not here to make money. I can go back to California and make $15,000 more than what I do now with a master's degree. It's a conscious choice that I'm here," Jackson said.

As for the financial issue, Jackson said, "It costs money to be social," and it is difficult for her to get around because she does not have a car.

There are advantages and disadvantages to being single, Jackson said.

"I'm not obligated to anyone and his expectations of what or who I should be. I don't have to worry about 'relationship maintenance,' you know, spending extra money to buy gifts or food, or trying to figure out who's going to pay when you go out. Being single is easier on the finances."

However, she also said there are drawbacks to single life.

"Sometimes you want a little TLC, companionship and someone to build with. Overall, your challenges depend on who you are, what you're interested in and the kind of people you're attracted to."

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