New York Amsterdam News Issue Oct. 14-20. 2021

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Vol. 112 No. 41 | October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW BLACK VIEW

RIKERS RUMBLE

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Inhuman conditions persist at Rikers

By HERB BOYD Special to the AmNews Last month our reporter Ariama C. Long did a fantastic job outlining the inhuman conditions at Rikers Island and a need to close it down. Among a cadre of informants she cited was the cogent comments from Brandon J. Holmes, co-founder of the Freedom Agenda. He told Ms. Long that back in August when he was doing voter registration for the incarcerated he saw whole rooms with at least 60 open cots “where people were sleeping communally, no masks, no circulating air, sticky floors, and a bad stench.”

In effect, as protesters take to the streets to close that“hell hole,” the cry of “Rikers equals death” has gained resonance, particularly after Freedom Agenda member Crystal Clarke voiced her demands at City Hall Park earlier this month. “I am here to let the elected officials know

(Millena Cecilia photo)

Jab juggle: Fight against vaccine mandates continues

By CYRIL JOSH BARKER Amsterdam News Staff

on Oct. 26 to discuss newly available data for the currently available COVID-19 vaccines.

Vaccinating children could be a hard sell for parents, according to a survey by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The survey revealed that less than half of the more than 1,700 parents who participated reported that they are likely to have their children receive a COVID19 vaccine.

Results showed only 28% of parents were very likely and 18% were somewhat likely to have their child receive the vaccine.

One-third were very unlikely, 9% were somewhat unlikely and See VACCINE on page 6

See RIKERS on page 6

Annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration on Randall’s Island resumes

(Ariama C. Long photo)

The COVID-19 vaccine mandate fight rages on as Pfizer/BioNTech submit data to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of their COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 to 11.

Young children are just steps closer to being approved to get the COVID-19 vaccine after Pfizer/BioNTech submitted an emergency request for the pediatric vaccine from the FDA. Reports indicate the vaccine for children is a different dose from the one adults get. The anticipated approval already has federal officials telling governors to

be prepared to administer the vaccine in the states as early as next month.

“We know from our vast experience with other pediatric vaccines that children are not small adults, and we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of clinical trial data submitted in support of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine used in a younger pediatric population, which may need a different dosage or formulation from that used in an older pediatric population or adults.” said Acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock.

The FDA is meeting this Thursday and Friday and again

that our loved ones are on Rikers Island, and they do not deserve to feel as though they are cast away and out of sight and mind.

“They are being pushed to their limits mentally and physically every day,” she continued.

“If our mayor, governor, judges, and DAs do not decarcerate they will contribute to the demise of hundreds of people.” Clarke herself is the partner of a person incarcerated on Rikers Island.

At least another elected official has heard her plea. Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, not related to Crystal, recently issued a statement in support of the initiatives to close the facility, linking her concerns with those already on board such as Mayorelect Eric Adams, and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. “For far too long, we have heard the harrowing, sickening stories of the cruelty and inhumanity allowed to fester within the walls of Rikers Island. These abuses are appalling, and they must be

See STORY on pages 8

Time to End Giuliani-era Policy Hamstringing Black Homeownership Urban Agenda by David R. Jones, President and CEO of the Community Service Society of New York - See page 5

2 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

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New Yorkers celebrated Nigeria’s ‘Independence Day’ in Manhattan On Saturday, Oct. 9, New Yorkers celebrated Nigeria’s “Independence Day” in Manhattan, celebrating the 61st year since direct British rule ended.

Commemorating the actual October 1st day, co-hosted by the Organization for the Advancement of Nigerians, and MC’d by Sumonu Bello-Osagie, as always the day celebrated culture, potential and achievements. There was music, food, vendors and travelers from far and wide. As Afro Heritage magazine publisher Tosin Mustapha said, we were also, “Honoring the memories of some dedicated members of the annual Nigerian Independence Day Committee who had passed away since the last celebration: Alhaji Raheem Banire, Deacon Omotade, and Brother Ifeoluwa Dan - Salami.

They were with us in spirit.”

International DESMOND TUTU MARKS A MILESTONE AT 90 WITH GLOBAL LEADERS (GIN)—Celebratory messages of love and appreciation for Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu poured in from across the world on the Nobel Peace Prize laureate’s 90th birthday on Oct. 7.

A week’s worth of events culminated on his birthday with the 11th Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture delivered this year by four global leaders.

They included the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s highest spiritual leader; women’s and children’s rights activist Graça Machel; chair of The Elders and former president of Ireland Mary Robinson, and South Africa’s former public protector, Thuli Madonsela. Each explored the topic “Speaking Truth to Power: No Future Without Justice” from their personal vantage points.

“It is clear,” said Piyushi Kotecha, chief executive officer of the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. “There can be no just future if those who believe in peace and justice do not continue to speak truth to power. The world is too often a broken place. It’s very brokenness must propel us into action.

“We find ourselves at the juncture between two worlds: an old world led by unscrupulous polit-

ical figures and self-serving economic interests, and one led by young activists who have social, environmental and women’s rights in their sight. The courage to heal is vital,” she said.

The lecture addresses were interspersed by performances by

News

a Christian membership of more than 13 million (80% Black), the first Black Bishop of Johannesburg and first Black Archbishop of Cape Town, together with his post-retirement appointments by President Mandela as chairperson of the Truth and Reconcilia(GIN photo)

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu

American cellist Yo-Yo Ma and South African cellist Abel Selaocoe, who performed a rendition of the well-known hymn Ibuyile I’Africa, and by the Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir.

Over the years the Archbishop’s groundbreaking roles have been well reported: the first Black secretary-general of the South African Council of Churches leading

tion Commission and The Elders.

Less well known is the Arch’s prominent global influence in volatile hotspots as he worked for peace and justice, from 1982 until more than two decades after his ostensible retirement in 1996, always seeking to instill hope in times of crisis and despair and keeping faith in the indivisibility of justice.

“I join the world in celebrating his life of service and contributions to humanity,” said President Joe Biden in a message, adding that he had been “honored” to meet and spend time with the Arch on several occasions over the years. Hollywood stars Samuel L Jackson, Alfre Woodard and Paulette Woodard paid tribute to one of the world’s most iconic prelates. “It’s one thing to stand up again and again against injustice, no matter the personal danger, and to speak the difficult, painful truth not only to your oppressors, but also to your friends.

But to do all that while maintaining a sense of humor and with genuine love in your heart—who can do that? Desmond Tutu.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa also paid tribute to Tutu for his “role as a fighter in the cause for human rights, for equality and for social justice in the 59 years since his ordination.” Later, at St. George’s Cathedral in Cape Town with about 150 family members and guests, a sermon was delivered by the Rev. Allan Boesak, former president of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches. “You have seen it all. But you have always given us hope,” Boesak said. “You have always spoken to our hearts. And you are still speaking to us today through your life.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Sex trafficking debated in the legislature, Black and Brown girls still suffering

By ARIAMA C. LONG Report for America Corps Member, Amsterdam News Staff Advocates and officials are still arguing over sex trafficking and sex work legislation in the state assembly, the conversation being centered on how best to protect victims in a vicious industry that primarily affects Black and Brown girls in New York City.

President of National Organization for Women (NOW) New York Sonia Ossorio, and politicians like Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly member Pamela Hunter, support the Sex Trade Survivors Justice & Equality Act, which “partially” decriminalizes people working as prostitutes while strengthening antitrafficking laws against traffickers and buyers.

Meanwhile, Assembly member Richard Gottfried, Senator Jessica Ramos, and others are pushing bills A849, A459, and A255A, that “fully decriminalize” the sex trade between consenting adults and offer certain protections for sex workers. Only bill A459 has passed in both the assembly and senate as of now.

Gottfried’s office said that these bills separate essentially the sex trade from the criminal justice system, meaning full decriminalization of sex work involving consenting adults weeds out clear cases of sex trafficking so law enforcement can “concentrate on removing those problems.”

Last week, the NYPD announced the arraignment and arrest of Long Island City resident Walter Pinckney, 25, who is charged with “sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, assault, and related charges for the alleged sex trafficking” of a young woman in East Flatbush and East New York in Brooklyn and elsewhere, said the district attorney’s office.

“We recognize that the vast majority of people who are in the sex trade are there because they’re poor, because they’re doing survival sex and they would like to get out. We recognize that many people are making that choice out of very limited choices in their lives,” said Ossorio.

Ossorio said it’s no coincidence that

Black and Brown women are disproportionately the people who are bought and sold in the sex trade.

“This young woman allegedly suffered horrific abuse at the hands of this defendant.

Thankfully, she was able to escape and get help. We must continue to do all we can to raise awareness of human trafficking and to prosecute those who engage in this appalling crime,” said Brooklyn District Attorney (DA) Eric Gonzalez in a statement.

Between May 11, 2021, and June 6, 2021, Pinckney allegedly forced a 24-year-old woman whom he met through mutual friends to work as a prostitute after taking sexually suggestive photos of her. He posted the photos in advertisements on two websites that offered sex in exchange for money. It is alleged that when the victim said she did not want to work in prostitution, Pinckney hit and beat her into submission, said the DA’s office.

In June, the woman was taken to a house in East Flatbush and held at the location and allegedly not given much food or water while she was tied up with an electrical cord. She eventually was able to escape and call 911 from a local corner store down the street, said the DA’s office.

Ossorio said unfortunately that this is a scenario that has happened multiple times in the city and is a clear case of sex trafficking and holding someone against their will, which is different from the general sex worker in the life.

She said the ‘promoting prostitution’ charge in particular, under the current laws is how law enforcement uncovers and investigates sex trafficking.

Ossorio referenced another instance of a major sex trafficking ring that was busted up last year.

Attorney General Letitia James, in conjunction with the NYPD’s Vice Major Case Squad and Human Trafficking Team, conducted a long-term joint investigation into Paul Alexander. He is a 57-year-old man in the Bronx that was running a sex trafficking See TRAFFICKING on page 25

Race to replace: Who will win District 30?

By CYRIL JOSH BARKER Amsterdam News Staff After Brian Benjamin was selected to serve as New York state lieutenant governor under Gov. Kathy Hochul last month, all eyes were on the 30th District state senate seat he vacated and who would replace him. Three candidates are now vying for the spot with a special election scheduled during the Nov. 2 general election.

Democrat Cordell Cleare, Independent Shana Harmongoff and Republican Oz Sultan are the candidates looking to fill the seat held by Benjamin since 2017 before his appointment. The 30th District covers portions of East Harlem, the Upper West Side, Morningside Heights, Hamilton Heights, and Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan. The district is 39% Black, 31% Hispanic, 21% white and 6% Asian.

A large majority of residents in the district,

nearly 80%, are registered Democrats with just 4% registered as Republicans. A quarter of residents in the district live below the poverty level and the median income is $48,000.

Late last month, Cleare was named the Democratic nominee for the race by members of the Manhattan Democratic Party. Assembly members Inez Dickens and Al Taylor were also vying for the nomination.

In an interview with the AmNews, Dickens said that she decided to get out of the race last Friday and the district needs someone who has experience in budgeting and legislation. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the district has seen several small businesses close, which Dickens says is the heartbeat of Upper Manhattan.

“We’re coming out of an awful situation where so many of our small businesses have closed and not been able to reopen,” she said.

“If the district had a more experienced person See RACE on page 27

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 3

MetroBriefs `

New York Chapter of the Nation of Islam hosts vaccine symposium The New York Chapter of the Nation of Islam is hosting the “New York Truth About Vaccine” tour Oct. 18 at Sugarhill Restaurant and Supper Club located at 217 Nostrand Ave. in Brooklyn.

The program will feature a documentary and symposium on medical racism by Ronnie Steven “Rizza” Islam and other medical professionals.

The event will occur at two times: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $35.

International panel of jurists oversees tribunal on US human rights abuses against Black, Brown and Indigenous peoples A newly constituted panel of jurists from the fields of law and human rights has assembled to oversee the International Tribunal on U.S. Human Rights Abuses Against Black, Brown, and Indigenous Peoples, to take place from Oct. 22-25, 2021 in New York City and virtually.

These jurists will preside over two days of testimonies from impacted victims, expert witnesses, and attorneys with firsthand knowledge of specific incidents raised in the charges/indictment.

The Tribunal will be evaluating charges of human and civil rights violations including police killings, mass incarceration, political incarceration, environmental racism and health racism.

The panel of jurists will announce its verdict following deliberations and discussions, planned for delivery at the United Nations on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. The panel asserts itself as an independent and non-governmental body which will convene to hear testimony based on a broad indictment served to the accused U.S. federal and state parties.

City invests $120 million for girls empowerment center in Brownsville The city is investing $120 million for the renovation of the Brownsville Multi-Service Center into a state-of-the-art girls’ empowerment center and community hub for east Brooklyn.

The current building, which will undergo a complete demolition in 2023, will transform the site into a home for science, technology, art, dance, and cultural programming for young girls across the borough.

The Brownsville Girls Empowerment Center will be modeled after the Lower East Side Girls Club of New York (LESGC). The City will partner with LESGC to support program implementation in the new site.

City officials will engage with the Brownsville community throughout the design-build process. Construction on the new site will begin in 2024.

Taxi Medallion Relief Program sees first 90 owners receive $14 million in debt forgiveness Ninety loan restructuring deals have been approved under the City’s $65 million Medallion Relief Program, delivering $14 million in debt forgiveness to individual medallion owners. The program continues to gather pace: in the last week alone, 33 drivers have received $3.6 million in relief.

More than 1,000 medallion owners have completed intake appointments to begin the restructuring process. In all, the program is anticipated to achieve as much as $500 million in total debt forgiveness.

The City of New York will provide $65 million in grants to economically distressed individual medallion owners. This includes $20,000 as a down payment to restructure loan principals and set lower monthly payments, as well as up to $9,000 for monthly debt relief payments.

Many medallion owners will have over $200,000 in debt forgiven, and loan payments reduced to about $1,500 or less per month.

Some owners will achieve total debt erasure through settlements.

—Compiled by Cyril Josh Barker

4 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Efforts to free Jamil Al-Amin continues

By AUTODIDACT 17 Special to the AmNews As he commemorated his 78th bornday on Monday, Imam Jamil Al-Amin’s supporters escalated efforts to establish his innocence. The original-Black Panther leader has been imprisoned for the March 16, 2000, murder of Fulton County sheriff’s deputy Ricky Kinchen, and wounding his partner, Aldranon English.

Despite inadequate evidence, in 2002 he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.

Although charged for a Georgia state crime, he was transferred to Florence, Colorado’s ADX SuperMax prison, where he languished over a decade, and is presently imprisoned at the United States Penitentiary in Tucson, Arizona, site of a recent rally.

“This has been a personal fight for me for 21 years, because this is my father,” attorney Kairi Al-Amin said at the Aug. 15 gathering. “I’m tired, this thing is weighing on me and it’s heavy. Hopefully the weight will be lifted soon and he’ll walk out those doors and spend the rest of his life on this side of the wall.”

Supporters want him relocated to Georgia where he’ll be close to his loved ones, lawyers, and receive adequate medical attention. They’re also pushing to have him exonerated if they’re permitted to present previously withheld evidence, in a new trial.

On June 29, 2000, parolee Otis Jackson confessed to the crime in sworn affidavits, providing detailed accounts of the shootout. He matched eyewitness descriptions of the shooter.

However, his confession was ignored, along with other supporting evidence during Al-Amin’s trial, which was conducted, “In the midst of government surveillance on civil-rights leaders and post 9/11 Islamophobia. It is also important to note that Al-Amin went to trial in March 2002, less than six months after 9/11. At a time when hatred against Muslims in the U.S. was at an all-time high,” assessed investigative reporter, Hamzah Raza.

Deputy English testified that he shot two men who “had grey eyes” in the incident. Jamil’s are brown, and he was uninjured when arrested four days afterwards, and neither his DNA nor fingerprints were on the alleged murder weapon.

“Time is of the essence, and we must fearlessly speak out against this injustice and advocate for Imam Jamil NOW,” urged Oussama Jammal, secretary general of the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations, co-sponsors of August’s event. “Imam Jamil’s health is not well.

He needs our voices. He needs us to advocate for him the way he advocated for us throughout his lifetime.”

In 2019, the Supreme Court denied Al-Amin’s challenge that his conviction on grounds to his constitutional rights were violated during trial, as well as while incarcerated.

Al-Amin has an extensive history of keeping his community drug-free and overall reducing crime. His attorneys cite prosecutorial misconduct on not allowing them to present pertinent evidence.

Also, that he’s been deprived proper medical care, including cataract surgery, causing him to be legally blind. That neglect is a violation of his 8th Amendment right to avoid cruel and unusual punishment.

During August’s multi-ethnic event various groups spoke.

“Today we’re here to draw attention to the injustices that Jamil and his family has faced due to the continued devaluation of Black voice, Black thought, Black action and Black life in this country,” said Mimi Arrayaa, Black Lives Matter Phoenix-Metro.

Maha Elkolall, Students for Imam Jamil, stated: “He was a civil-rights leader, he spoke truth to justice. This is spiritual warfare. He fought for Black liberation and empowered people.”

Currently, there’s a case in Federal Court demanding Jamil receive medical attention. His case is also being reviewed by the Fulton County Conviction Integrity Unit, which can exonerate him fully.

For more information, visit: www. whathappened2rap.com

Vice President Kamala Harris connects with Black-owned bakery on New Jersey tour

By ARIAMA C. LONG Report for America Corps Member, Amsterdam News Staff

Vice President Kamala Harris toured Montclair and Newark, New Jersey facilities last week Friday, Oct. 8, to promote COVID-19 vaccinations and the importance of child care. The highlight of her trip was arguably a small stopover with colleagues Gov. Phil Murphy and Sen. Cory Booker at an impeccable bakery shop called Tonnie’s Minis, whose owner used to call Harlem home before making the move to Newark.

Tonnie’s Minis was located on 264 Lenox Avenue in Harlem when the Amsterdam News did a write-up on the bakery in 2012, said shop owner Tonnie Rozier.

A baker since the age of 7, Rozier’s first

store was a display case in a cheesesteak shop in Manhattan before moving uptown to the Harlem location. His original recipes come from his family with his signature carrot cake being his mother’s. The shop’s topseller is its pineapple coconut cake, said Rozier. The minis come in three sizes—the shot, California and Hollywood.

Rozier, and his head chef Chaely Rodriguez, eagerly awaited the arrival of Harris, Booker, and Murphy from behind the cramped counter and glass cake display with a host of press and cameras.

The smell of absurdly delicious baked goods greeted the elected officials as they entered the shop, and was the first thing they commented on. “It does smell the best of any shop in New Jersey, See KAMALA on page 32

NewJerseyNews Black teacher named New Jersey State Teacher of the Year

By CYRIL JOSH BARKER Amsterdam News Staff

Theresa Maughan, a high school social studies teacher at East Orange STEM Academy, has been named the 2021-’22 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year by the New Jersey Education Association.

An educator for nearly 40 years, Maughan credits her longevity in the profession to her lifelong commitment to professional development and to the camaraderie and collaboration embedded in her professional learning communities.

She is passionate about learning and tells her students that she tries to learn something new every day.

“I love everything about my job,” Maughan said during her virtual acceptance speech. “I enjoy the interaction that I get to have with my students. It keeps my career fresh because everyday is something different. I really enjoy giving my students the opportunity to become the best version of themselves.”

Maughan is a curriculum writer and has developed and presented several interdisciplinary professional development workshops for her school district. She has served as a mentor for new teachers and students studying history. She has previously been named the Teacher of the Year at East Orange High School, East Orange Campus High School and East Orange STEM Academy.

She is also the 2021 Essex County Teacher of the Year and the NJ History Day/National History Day Patricia Behring Senior Division Teacher of the Year. For more than a decade, Maughan has attended the summer workshops held by the New

Jersey Amistad Commission, and she is serving as an Amistad Scholar.

“Teaching has always been a noble profession and now more than ever, it is important we have people of strong character, steeped in the principles of truth and knowledge,” said NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “It is fitting that in this moment, at this time, we have a history teacher as our NJ State Teacher of the Year. Theresa’s expertise and voice serves as a guiding path to show how educators teach critical thinking skills, how students learn to draw conclusions based on facts, and how important it is to share the stories of all people.”

Maughan, who was born in Belize, Central America, emigrated with her family when she was in elementary school. Her social studies teacher’s efforts to save her family from deportation after their visa expired inspired Maughan to pursue a career in education.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in history and secondary education from Rutgers University and a master’s degree in administration and supervision of urban schools from New Jersey City University. Maughan is completing a second master’s degree in American history from Pace University.

“Theresa Maughan represents the very essence of our profession,” said NJEA Vice President Steve Beatty. “She has an infectious passion for her curriculum that is matched only by her passion for her students. Leading with compassion and a palpable desire to see her students succeed, she will serve as a perfect representation of New Jersey’s teachers on the national stage.”

Booker calls on DOJ to decriminalize cannabis

By CYRIL JOSH BARKER Amsterdam News Staff New Jersey U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, along with U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland urging the Department of Justice to decriminalize cannabis by removing the drug from the federal controlled substances list.

Under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA), the attorney general can remove a substance from the CSA’s list, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, based on the finding that it does not have the potential for abuse.

Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level via the descheduling process would allow states to regulate cannabis as they see fit. Booker andWarren also say it would begin to remedy the harm caused by decades of racial disparities in enforcement of cannabis laws, and facilitate valuable medical research.

“While Congress works to pass comprehensive cannabis reform, you can act now to decriminalize cannabis,” wrote Booker and Warren.

Approximately 91% of adults in the

United States believe that cannabis should be legal for medical and recreational use, or for medical use only. To date, 36 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for medicinal purposes, and 18 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for adult recreational use.

Booker and Warren say decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level will address the racial inequities in cannabis law enforcement. Federal cannabis policy has disproportionately affected the ability of people of color in the United States to vote, pursue educational and career opportunities, and to build wealth.

“We urge the DOJ to initiate the process to decriminalize cannabis,” Booker and Warren wrote. “Doing so would be an important first step in the broader tasks of remedying the harmful racial impact of our nation’s enforcement of cannabis laws and ensuring that states can effectively regulate the growing cannabis industry, including by assisting small business owners and those most harmed by our historical enforcement of cannabis laws.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Yvonne Stennett: Cut from a different CLOTH

By CYRIL JOSH BARKER Amsterdam News Staff Yvonne Stennett is the executive director of the Community League of the Heights (CLOTH) in Washington Heights. The nonprofit organization founded in 1952 offers services to disadvantaged residents in the neighborhood and is dedicated to finding solutions to poverty.

Stennett has dedicated most of her life to the organization, starting out as a youth counselor in 1979 and working her way up to executive director in 1994.

Looking back on her nearly 30 years as the head of CLOTH, she said that coming there for a job 42 years ago was “divine intervention.”

“It has been a blessing and a lot of work but I think we’ve been able to achieve quite a lot and expanded the portfolio,” Stennett said. “We’ve been doing a lot of work and I’m grateful to have the ability to do it.”

The mother of four children and 13 grandchildren, Stennett was born in Jamaica, W.I. Her family came to New York when she was eight years old. She eventually graduated from the historically Black Lincoln University. She returned to New York and worked for the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation.

After the birth of her first child, Stennett applied for a job at CLOTH as a property manager but the organization’s founder and executive director at the time, Lucille Bulger, offered her a position as youth counselor. Since her time with the organization, Stennett has since continued her education at Columbia University and Harvard University business schools, receiving certifications.

“We always struggle with trying to find out what our purpose in life is and I think over the years I’ve grown to know that my purpose is to be of service,” she said. “Every morning I’m blessed by the opportunity to get up and touch someone’s life, sometimes in very small ways, sometimes in very big ways. I want to feel like I’m doing God’s work.”

That work includes creating nearly 560 units of affordable housing, offering an afterschool program to more than 200 K-12 students and serving more than 600 families through CLOTH’s food pantry.

CLOTH also serves as the social service provider for the PACT Renaissance Collaborative who are helping 3,000 residents through NYCHA’s PACT program.

Stennett’s work has not gone unnoticed. She’s received the Ellen Sulzberger Straus Leadership Award from the Enterprise Foundation, the Courage in Community Award from the McAuley Institute, and the Brooke Russell Astor Award from the New York City Public Library for her years of service and commitment to community development.

“The community needs to have trust in the organizations within their community, consistency, care and accountabil-

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 5

THE URBAN AGENDA

By David R. Jones

Time to End Giuliani-era Policy Hamstringing Black Homeownership Owning real estate is an undeniable part of the American dream — and of American citizenship. It is also the key to building intergenerational wealth.

Imagine paying your mortgage, yet being stripped of the deed to the property you’ve worked hard to maintain, where you’ve raised your family and watched your tenants and neighbors do the same?

For years, New York City has routinely generated revenue by selling homeowner and landlord debt to city-chartered trusts, and in the process, setting up property owners for foreclosure. This debt is comprised of monies owed for delinquent property taxes, water and sewer bills.

For the first time since the pandemic, New York City’s tax lien sales will resume on Dec. 17th.

Black

New Yorker

ity builds trust,” she said. “Furthermore, the needs of our community still exist and I believe that our organization is needed and necessary to continue addressing those needs because it knows how to do so. I personally think that I still have some work to do to ensure that our legacy will continue and when my spirit tells me that I have done the best I can do to ensure that then it will be time to go.

My responsibility to those who built this agency will have been met.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Stennett oversaw CLOTH’s continued efforts even though some funding went astray, leading her to become creative and innovative about how to spend the funding the organization receives.

CLOTH has been able to do 11,000 wellness calls to people to ensure they have what they need during the pandemic. The organization also made food deliveries to several housing developments, particularly to seniors. CLOTH created a tech program to teach seniors and others how to use Zoom.

As far as what she wants to do next, Stennett wants to make sure CLOTH lives on. Stennett and her team are currently in their strategic plan looking ahead at the next five years.

“We’re really trying to make sure that we solidify all the work that we’ve done and have an infrastructure that will make sure the work goes forward,” she said.

“There are several other projects that we’re working on, but the main focus is right now trying to strategically structure the organization so that we can do it [and] we can be ready for the future.”

Tax lien sales, and the fees and interest imposed by private buyers that purchase the liens, push too many property owners into insolvency. They compound the stress of today’s coronavirus pandemic and the lingering effects of the Great Recession of 2008.

The sales should be abolished, period. They reek of systematic unfairness in a tax system that favors the wealthy. The current lien sale system, which were established in 1996 under the Giuliani administration, plunder the wealth of struggling homeowners and have a disproportionate impact on communities of color, resulting in a “Black Tax.” It is time to create a new system. I join a broad coalition of housing advocates, nonprofits and elected officials that call for eliminating tax lien sales and replacing them with a more just public system to deal with tax delinquency. The sales are, in fact, a direct byproduct of unfair lending practices that hamstring homeowners and undermine their finances.

Let’s find more humane alternatives, such as transferring foreclosed properties to community land trusts and nonprofit organizations that would work with the homeowner or put the distressed properties to good use, such as affordable housing.

Mayor’s Support for Lien Sale Undercuts Mantra of Equity Despite the on-again, off-again pandemic recovery, Mayor Bill de Blasio wants to go after property debt as an impetus for them to pay overdue bills for city services, fund the city budget and support general-obligation bonds guaranteed with property tax revenue.

But his push for the sale runs counter to his mantra of equity and progressive leadership.

People of color face the greatest risk.

According to the Urban Institute, Black homeowners were more likely than White homeowners to have missed or deferred their mortgage payment due to the financial impact of the coronavirus. It’s not a great

leap to assume the arrears extend to property taxes, water, sewer and utility bills.

The New York City lien sales, repeatedly postponed by the pandemic – first by the city and then the state –destabilize low- and moderate-income homeowners. Property owners often do not realize that they are in arrears until it’s too late.

Under pressure to dramatically revise or abolish the system, the City Council authorized the 2021 lien sale for one year instead of the usual four years.

In a bid to soften the blow, this year’s sale exempts buildings with 10 or fewer units if one is the owner’s primary residence. Such owners must submit a hardship declaration. Also, only liens for unpaid taxes will be sold. Delinquent water and sewer debts are exempt.

Even so, according to the Department of Finance, more than 11,000 properties are eligible for the sale. A lion’s share — 4,519 — are in Brooklyn, followed by Queens’ 2,817 and Manhattan’s 1,373. The city lists 1,324 properties in the Bronx and 1,161 on Staten Island.

Lien sales are part of a burden nationwide that has contributed to black homeownership barely rising since 1970, two years after passage of the Fair Housing Act, according to the Urban Institute.

In fact, over the past 15 years, Black homeownership has declined more dramatically than for any other racial or ethnic group in the United States. In 2019, the Black homeownership rate was about as low as in the 1960s, when private racebased discrimination was legal. Here’s a sad datapoint: The homeownership gap between Black and White Americans is now larger than 50 years ago.

The City Council has appointed a 12-person task force to study tax lien sales and make recommendations. The ideas proposed so far range from replacing the system, to tweaking it and exempting some properties.

For example, one proposal would create a land bank that would collect outstanding debt, but would have flexibility to work with delinquent owners, according to the task force’s minutes.

Another would eliminate tax lien sales for oneto three-unit residential buildings, as well as co-op and condo units. These alternatives assume that liens may still need to be placed on tax-delinquent properties, but reject the idea that selling that debt to a private trust produces equitable outcomes for either the homeowner or tenants.

Those are the types of ideas that inject fairness into the system and give homeowners and building owners more time to recover from the pandemic.

Let’s give people a fair chance to pay their debts and remain property owners, while offering alternatives that guarantee equity for tenants and homeowners alike.

David R. Jones, Esq., is President and CEO of the Community Service Society of New York (CSS), the leading voice on behalf of low-income New Yorkers for more than 170 years. The views expressed in this column are solely those of the writer. The Urban Agenda is available on CSS’s website: www.cssny.org.

6 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Rikers

“Mayor de Blasio has put the wheels in motion necessary towards ending this decades-long humanitarian Continued from page 1 crisis,” Clarke added. “The onus is on our next mayor to finish the work and brought to an end. I fully support Free- decisively say New York does not tolerdom Agenda and its allies in their efforts ate injustices, wherever they arise. Let to bring attention to this crisis and close me be clear: Rikers Island should not our city’s most reprehensible incarcera- be open another minute. It cannot be tion complex,” she said. open another administration.”

As reporter Long noted in her article, the mayor’s executive order called for the NYPD to help operate courts so staff can shift back to Rikers, more “accountability for AWOL DOC officers, emergency contracting for repairs and cleaning, and speeding up intake to reduce crowding.”

The crowded conditions only exacerbate the spread of disease and discontent, Queens Assembly Member

Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas said at the City Hall Park rally. “We’ve lost 12 people on Rikers Island this year and all of them were avoidable. The crisis on Rikers Island is a crisis of inhumanity and despite knowing the solutions, the mayor, judges, and district attorneys are choosing not to act. There is nothing just about that. We must decarcerate Rikers,” she concluded.

the Second Circuit on Thursday.

The case stems from a lawsuit consisting of 17 health professionals who said the vaccine mandate violates their rights and did not consider exemptions. Judge David Hurd in Utica, N.Y. ruled that the state cannot deny religious exemptions in the vaccine mandate.

“My responsibility as governor is to protect the people of this state, and requiring healthcare workers to get vaccinated accomplishes that,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in response to the ruling.

“I stand behind this mandate, and I will fight this decision in court to keep New Yorkers safe.”

While healthcare workers received a victory in their lawsuit, the same can’t be said for city public schools teachers.

This week, a federal judge denied a temporary injunction to stop the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for teachers. The lawsuit Kane vs. de Blasio seeks to halt the mandate for teachers.

The Department of Education reports that 95% of school staff have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“We are now watching very closely the case of healthcare workers to be heard in the 2nd circuit court this Thursday,” said lead plaintiff and public school teacher Michael Kane. “If they are successful, it is highly likely we will appeal Kane vs. de Blasio to the 2nd Circuit Court.”

Last week, de Blasio announced that the NYPD and FDNY could be subject to a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Reports indicate that 68% of police officers are vaccinated and the percentage is slightly lower for the FDNY. Both NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea and FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro support the possible mandate.

Currently, FDNY and NYPD employees must either get the COVID-19 vaccine or submit to weekly testing.

“We’re looking at a variety of tools,” de Blasio said last Friday. “So far, I like a lot how the mandates are going. They’re driving up vaccinations, they’re driving down COVID. There’s a lot of other tools we have and we’ll be talking about them in the next few days.”

In a statement, Police Benevolent As-

sociation President Pat Lynch said the decision to get the vaccine should be made by members of the NYPD themselves and not the city.

“We have pushed to make the vaccine available to all members who seek it, and we will continue to protect the rights of members who are not vaccinated,” he said. “That position has not changed, and neither the city nor the NYPD has advised us of any changes to the current vaccination policy.”

In one report, Uniformed Firefighters Association Vice President Bobby Eustace said if a vaccine mandate is implemented, a large number of the FDNY force would be off the job or quit, causing dangerous results.

“We believe there should be a choice,” Eustace said. “That would be devastating to public safety. If you were to take away 40% of our workforce because they weren’t vaccinated, I can guarantee you public safety would be in jeopardy because a lot of the men and women on the frontlines would be gone and your safety would be in jeopardy.”

Vaccine Continued from page 1

12% were unsure. Vaccine safety and side effects were their chief concerns.

Last month, Mayor Bill de Blasio said COVID-19 vaccines will not be mandated for New York City public school students. A similar mandate was implemented in Los Angeles public schools requiring students age 12 and older to be vaccinated.

Numbers from the city’s health department indicate that 70% of youth aged 12 to 17 in the city have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Resistance continues over COVID-19 vaccine mandates for some adults in the city as a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction this week preventing New York State from denying health care workers’ religious exemptions from a statewide mandate. An attorney for the healthcare professional will argue their case before the U.S. Court of Appeals for

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• • • • •

Mayor Public Advocate Comptroller Borough President City Council

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October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 7

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8 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Out & About Annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration on Randall’s Island resumes

By ARIAMA C. LONG

Report for America Corps Member,

Amsterdam News Staff The 7th annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day festival on Randall’s Island kicked off for the first time this Sunday, Oct. 10, since having to suspend last year’s celebrations due to COVID-19 concerns.

The 24 hour fest usually displays a myriad of Indigenous cultures, music, songs, dances, food with an opening fire lighting ceremony and prayer led by the elders.

It closes with a sunrise ceremony on Monday morning.

Though Sunday was cloudy and rainy, attendees trickled in for the shops and festivities.

Elder Wayne Duncan, who lives in New Jersey, started off with a prayer that honored the water, trees, sky, and tobacco plants. “It’s important to hear it in English first,” he said, “because the value of it is that we are all relatives. Our stories are all relevant, us being together today is relevant.”

Duncan then gathered the various tribes represented at the festival in a smaller circle on the lawn of Randall’s Island park behind the Icahn Stadium. Around a cauldron they chanted and threw prayers on the fire as they stoked it to life, even in the light rain. The thunderous, rolling sound of motorcycle engines revving capped the ceremony as the Redrum Native American Based Motorcycle Club encircled the park on Harley Davidson bikes.

Post a racial justice reckoning in New York City during last year’s pandemic, the city school system made an attempt this May to designate Oct. 11 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Christopher Columbus Day when they initially posted the revised school calendar.

Mayor Bill de Blasio and School Chancellor Meisha Porter said they had no knowledge of the controversial move at the time. Among “swift condemnation” from elected officials and Italian Americans, the Department of Education then backtracked and changed the name to Italian Heritage Day/ Indigenous Peoples’ Day, said​​ ABCNews.

This holiday is “rooted in inaccuracy and celebrates a tragic history of genocide and violence against the indigenous

(Ariama C. Long photos)

peoples of this country and all of the Americas,” said organizers who have been petitioning for more recognition of Native Americans on the holiday.

Activist Chenae Bullock is a member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation and descendant of the Montauk tribe of Long Island.

Bullock asked those considered “spectators” at the festival to be mindful that this was a time of grievance and celebratory resilience for native peoples.

“For the last 400 years there’s been a rapist and murderer, a man who has genocided, a man who has become glorified, to continue the perpetuation of not only paper genocide of my people here in Long Island and New York as if we don’t exist,” said Bullock. “Understand never take anything personal but I’m speaking to that spirit.”

Bullock said that her community is still dealing with the high rates of missing or murdered Indigenous women that don’t warrant high media coverage because they are not white. She said that native lands are still being stolen and built upon which contributes to a “wealth gap.”

Entrepreneur Courtney Streett, who founded the Native Roots Farm Foundation, similarly spoke about her goal of establishing a sustainable farm in Delaware. She said the land had been inhabited by Nanticoke and Lenape peoples for generations. She hopes to encourage the agricultural community away from selling land to developers.

“Where my ancestors are from in the Nanticoke community is one of the fastest developing regions in the country, and a lot of the farms are being turned into Big Lots stores, and parking lots and houses,” said Streett.

Streett was selling fresh strawberry juice, made with native strawberries from her local garden and maple syrup from the Passamaquoddy Tribe in Maine.

Ariama C. Long is a Report for America corps member and writes about culture and politics in New York City for The Amsterdam News. Your donation to match our RFA grant helps keep her writing stories like this one; please consider making a taxdeductible gift of any amount today by visiting: https://tinyurl. com/fcszwj8w

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS O U T & A B O U T

Natural Partners In Crime and Palmers host fifth annual Hue Beauty & Natural Hair Affair Expo

By OLAYEMI ODESANYA Special to the AmNews

(Daniel Serrette photo)

The fifth annual HUE Beauty & Natural Hair Affair was held at City Point Mall in Downtown Brooklyn on September 18th. With more than 600 attendees, the Natural Partners In Crime and Palmers successfully gathered the natural hair community to connect with 50+ minority-owned brands and businesses. Upcoming and prominent brands used this expo as a platform for exposure, and to engage with existing and new clientele. Known brands who were at the expo include Creme of Nature, Crown Her Kinks, Afro Sheen and Kueens Kulture.

“This year’s HUE Beauty & Natural Hair Affair was truly an unforgettable experience,” said Natural Partners In Crime founder, Sabrina Boissiere. “Not only because it commemorated our five-year anniversary, but more than anything it showcased the important role events of this capacity play within the multicultural market.”

HUE stands for Hair Unites Everyone, an organization aimed to showcase natural hair brands at their annual beauty expos. Women, men and children of all ages are welcome to experience the interactive exhibit where they can relive the “Black Hair Experience.”

“HUE was amazing this year. It’s so great to be back at a natural hair expo and interactive with consumers. We are always so excited to share the amazing hair care products that we have. We can’t wait for the next one,” said Angela Hughes, senior manager of web content & social media of Palmers.

Over the past years, HUE Affair hosted their natural hair expos mainly in New York City.

However, HUE Affair made history by becoming the first and only natural hair event at SXSW in Austin, Texas in March 2020.

At this year’s expo, HUE Natural Hair Affair gifted the first 200 guests who arrived VIP swag

bags with full-size, newly launched product offerings from prominent brands. New Yorkbased lifestyle and beauty influencers such as Beautymarkedlily, Heynelli, Modelesque_Nic and SimplyShannah were also in attendance to greet fans.

“I truly enjoy being around other Black women who embrace their natural beauty and hair,” said HUE Affair 2021 attendee Sasha. “Not only are you networking and buying your go-to hair products, it’s a learning experience. You learn about the different products and methods to achieve hairstyles. You become inspired and start experimenting with your own hair.”

HUE Affair announced their upcoming fourcity tour in 2022 including Austin, NYC and the debut in Atlanta and Philly. If you are interested in attending the expo in your nearby city or being a vendor, please visit: http://www.hueaffair.com, follow the brand on Instagram (@ hueaffair)

Restoration Rocks in Bed Stuy Becoming a tradition real quick, Bed Stuy Alive took over in Brooklyn Oct. 9, 2021, from 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. outside Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation at 1368 Fulton St. There were the dedicated vendors, such as Brenda Brunson-Bey and Della J Designz, with their African-centered clothes, hats, arts, and jewelry.

This year featured live DJ sets from DJ Rich Medina, DJ Reborn, DJ Hard Hittin Harry, DJ Taela Naomi, & DJ Stormin

Norman as well as additional performances from Mic Murphy “The System” and poet David Mills. Can’t have Bed Stuy without grassroots activism, so the December 12th Movement distributed fliers and got into conversations urging the community with a strong George Jackson statement to “Stop killing each other.”

The event was hosted by spoken word artist Derrick Cross and our resident Skylight Open host, Clyla Destiny.

(Nayaba Arinde photo)

Nightlife

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 9

Written by David Goodson

Lionheart Deontay Wilder wins solid respect; Kane, KRS1, Super Cat up next The resume reads 42 victories. 41 by way of knockout. Ten of those were in defense of his WBC Heavyweight Championship. Standing at 6-foot-7 and an estimated 220 pounds in each fight, the svelte physique disguised one of the most potent weapons, a devastating right hand, ever seen in the history of boxing. Yet despite those impressivecredentials,DeontayWilderwasstilladecided,albeitaLIVE,underdoginthethird chapter of his competition with his fistic rival Tyson Fury. Originally scheduled for July 24, Fury-Wilder 3 took place Saturday, Oct. 9, at the T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The nonstop action, commenced from the opening bell, featured five knockdowns between the two combatants before one of the most exciting slugfests in the history of the Heavyweight division came to a dramatic, emphatic halt with Tyson Fury once more besting Wilder via an 11th round knockout to retain his WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Championship.

Said the boisterous Fury of what transpired in the ring, “ThiswasagreatfightandOctober9,2021,willgodowninhistory,Ihope.He’satough man. He took some big shots tonight. It was a great fight, as good as any trilogy in history.” He concluded, “I always said I was the best in the world, and he was the second best. Don’t ever doubt me. When the chips are down, I will always deliver.”

While not in attendance for the post fight press conference, Wilder issued a statement that said, “I did my best, but it wasn’t good enough tonight. I’m not sure what happened. I know that in training he did certain things, and I also knew that he didn’t come in at 277 pounds to be a ballet dancer. He came to lean on me, try to rough me up and he succeeded.”

As a precaution, Deontay Wilder was taken to University Medical Center for evaluation where it was revealed that Wilder will be having right-hand surgery next week to repair a broken bone he suffered during the contest.

While all the spoils go to the victor, Wilder going out on his shield earned him a level of respect he hadn’t seen during his reign as champion. Celebrity fans offered: “Sometimes when you lose you win. Respect to Deontay Wilder. Lionheart.”— LOVE aka Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs “Even more respect for Wilder!”—Donovan Mitchell “Wilder showed major heart…the better man won. Fought six rounds with his legs gone…”—Damian Lillard Mike Tyson, former Baddest Man on the Planet, surmised it best, “Fury vs. Wilder fightwillgodownasoneofthegreatest.Notforskillbutforactionandexcitement.That fight was all guts, heart, and determination. Everybody won Saturday night. The fight was bigger than the hype. Both of them reached all-time great status.”

While not in an athletic endeavor, another matchup of All Time Great Heavyweights will take place this week as Triller will unveil a weekend extravaganza, twoday event: TrillerVerz III on Saturday, Oct. 16 and Sunday, Oct. 17 at Barclays Center featuring world class professional boxing and extraordinary iconic musical acts, an unforgettable weekend of incredible entertainment presented by Triller Fight Club and Verzuz. Saturday night will premiere the new concert series Iconz presented by Verzuz,afteraliveboxingevent,andwillfeaturethelegendarysuperstarreggaeartist Super Cat. Sunday night’s Verzuz battle features hip hop legends, Big Daddy Kane vz. KRS-One. The boxing card will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday followed by Super Cat and 7 p.m. on Sunday with Big Daddy Kane vz. KRS-One. TrillerVerz was created to bridge the worlds of boxing and music produced

by Triller Fight Club, the company known for pairing world class boxing with iconic music legends. The entire weekend will be produced by Nigel Lythgoe, the Triller Fight Club visionary.

“This is a really exciting moment in the TrillerVerz history where we have the first back-to- back Verzuz events in the same venue. Having Super Cat and his surprise guests Saturday night followed by Big Daddy Kane vz. KRS-One Sunday night, truly it will be a Brooklyn takeover and a moment in musical history not to be missed,” said acclaimed producer Lythgoe, creator and executive producer of “American Idol” and “So, You Think You Can Dance.” “Super Cat is an icon and a legend, and the surprise guests are sure to be the talk of the music world.”

PromotedinassociationwithDiBellaEntertainment,separateticketsforeachevent starting at $27.50 are available through SeatGeek.com and TrillerFightClub.com.

However, the entire TrillerVerz two-day weekend event will be broadcast exclusively on TrillerFightClub.com and Fite Only, through the TrillerVerz subscription packagepricedat$2.99permonthwithaminimumofoneTrillerVerzstagedeachmonth.

Over and Out, Holla next week. Til then, enjoy the nightlife.

10 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Union Matters Vineyard workers become first farm union in New York State

By STEPHON JOHNSON Amsterdam News Staff Workers at a Long Island vineyard now have the power to organize.

On Sept. 27, twelve employees at the Pindar Vineyards in Peconic, New York had their right to organize certified by the New York State Public Employment Relations Board (PERB). The farm workers were certified Local 338 RWDSU/UFCW as the union to represent the workers.

Now, farm workers have the right to collectively bargain for a new deal. It’s the first union certifica-

tion of farm workers under the recently passed Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act, which gave agricultural workers that right.

They’re the first agricultural workers to form a labor union in New York State.

“My coworkers at Pindar and I joined Local 338 because we want dignity and respect. Our work should be valued and only by receiving equal treatment and things like sick days and paid time off to spend with our loved ones will it be,” stated Rodolfo M., Local 338 RWDSU/UFCW member and worker

A historic win for New York Farm Workers President, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, Twitter: @sappelbaum. www.rwdsu.org

For far too long, farm workers in New York have been subject to discrimination, abuse, and exploitation.

They have reported enduring 70-hour, seven-day work weeks without overtime pay. They toil in extreme heat in the summer months but are cruelly denied adequate bathroom breaks or enough access to water. Farm workers often are forced to venture into the fields in seek of relief, where they are subjected to exposure to ticks and potentially hazardous chemicals. For female farm workers, this can be even more dehumanizing, exposing more of their bodies to these hazards, and even risking sexual harassment as they undress to relieve themselves. Women in agricultural work are at increased risk of uterine tract infections due to their exposure in the fields.

When workers suffer from injuries or health problems—dehydration, cuts, broken limbs—they often find they are on their own, without adequate medical care. When they seek out medical care, they pay out of their own pockets.

Rather than risk missing work and the income they need to survive, many agricultural workers are forced to stay on the job despite injuries.

These workers—largely immigrants—have suffered while toiling in a multimillion-dollar industry that often uses their documentation status as a tool to exploit and intimidate them. And they’ve never been able to seek out the best tool workers have to protect them: unions and collective bargaining. Shockingly, under

a struggle that spans multiple decades and the Pinar Vineyards workers have grown.

It was a decades-long struggle to win farmworkers’ right to organize in this state, and now workers at Pindar Vineyards are seeing their seeds grow.

“For the first time we can call farmworkers in New York State union members. For far too long, farmworkers have worked to nourish our communities without necessary workplace protections for themselves or their families,” said Appelbaum. “…Now they can begin negotiating the first ever union contract for farm workers in New York.

The workers at Pindar Vineyards have made history and are the beginning of what we are sure will be a growing union presence for the state’s farmworkers.”

(Carlos Pintau photo)

Stuart Appelbaum

New York law, they were forbidden from bargaining collectively and exercising the rights most New Yorkers take for granted.

The RWDSU and a coalition including the NY AFL-CIO and others fought hard to change that, and in 2019 secured the passage of the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act, which finally gave countless farm and agricultural workers the right to bargain collectively and create better lives for themselves. And now, we are already seeing results.

A group of farm workers at Pindar Vineyards in Peconic, New York, became the first farmworkers in the state to join a union when they became members of RWDSU Local 338 in early October. Their historic victory makes them the first group of agricultural workers to win a union voice so they can negotiate a contract that will ensure better pay and working conditions. These workers—who reported discrimination while being treated far worse than the retail “tasting staff”—have seized the opportunity to change their jobs and their lives by joining the RWDSU. Countless farm workers in New York can look to this worker victory as an inspiration and the first step toward changing their own lives. With the labor movement at their side, New York’s farm workers can finally exercise their right to join a union, and claim dignity, respect, and a voice on a job. By bargaining collectively, they can begin to address they many issues they face at work.

New York’s agricultural workers are entering a new era, and the RWDSU will be with them every step of the way.

Fighting back against exploitation and mistreatment with the power of collective bargaining starts now.

at Pindar Vineyards. “We know that being a union member will help us get the recognition we deserve for all of our efforts.”

Passed in 2019, the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act “grants collective bargaining rights to farm laborers; requires employers of farm laborers to allow at least 24 consecutive hours of rest each week; provides for an 8 hour work day for farm laborers; requires overtime rate at one and one-half times normal rate;…”

Pindar Vineyards, according to their company’s website, produced Long Island’s first Syrah, a darkskinned red grape that’s known for producing full-bodied wine. The vineyard’s owners also provide tours, live music, and a tasting room.

“When New York passed the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act,

Pindar Vineyards employees now have the right to collectively bargain

there was a fundamental understanding that agricultural workers needed key protections that they have lacked for decades, including the right to join a union,” John Durso, president of Local 338 RWDSU/ UFCW, stated. “PERB’s historic certification is the next step in securing dignity and respect for the essential workers who ensure we have food and beverages on our tables.”

Local 338 RWDSU/UFCW filed to represent the Pindar field workers on May 28, 2021.

Stuart Appelbaum, president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union said that the certification of L ocal 338 RWDSU/UFC W was the result of

New York State Senator Jessica Ramos stated that it was about time that farm workers got the same rights as all other employees in the state.

“When we corrected the labor law to give farmworkers the same basic rights as other workers in New York and rid our state of a Jim Crow sin, we dreamt of the day workers would answer the call to organize for better wages and working conditions,” stated Ramos. ”Welcome, Pindar Vineyards workers, to the labor family and congratulations on choosing RWDSU Local 338. You’re stronger together when negotiating a fair contract with your employer.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 11

“When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, CyberKnife® was the answer to my prayers.”

Apostle Billy Richards Grace Fellowship Ministries Brooklyn, NY

Following a routine physical, Pastor Billy Richards of Grace Fellowship Ministries in Brooklyn was referred to a urologist for further testing where he learned the news that shocked him. He had prostate cancer. After much prayer and discussion with his family, Pastor Richards decided to hold off on treatment because he did not like the options he was given, especially surgery.

Then, he heard about CyberKnife at Perlmutter Cancer Center. CyberKnife radiation therapy is as effective as surgery, but with no pain, no recovery period and less risk of side effects compared to other treatments. After five brief sessions, the treatment was a complete success. Today, Pastor Richards is convinced he has a second calling. “I’m a witness that CyberKnife works,” he says.

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12 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Opinion Why I went to jail on October 5

By BEN JEALOUS

Republican state legislators the biggest threat to our of every Democratic senator. If it gets to the White democracy since the Civil War. We need him to act like House, President Biden will sign it.

Sometimes friends have to hold friends accountable. he truly believes those words.

That bad news is that Senate Minority Leader Mitch McThat’s why I got arrested outside the White House on Oct. 5.

We need a federal voting rights law passed this year. More Connell and his Republican colleagues are using Senate filI was there with other civil rights and religious leaders to call states are enacting voter suppression. They are abusing the ibuster rules to keep voting rights from coming up for a vote. on President Joe Biden to do more to protect voting rights redistricting process to rig future elections and give Republi- This is 2021, not 1921. President Biden and Senate Demothat are under attack. cans more power than they would win in a fair system. They crats cannot let McConnell have the final word on voting We know that President Biden supports voting want to shut Democrats out of power in 2022 and 2024. rights in this country. rights. He has called anti-voting laws being passed by They want to stop progress that millions of Americans voted In the 1960s, President Lyndon Johnson did not choose for when we put President Biden and Vice Pres- between civil rights and his anti-poverty agenda. ident Kamala Harris in the White House—and He knew the country needed both and he used his mobilized to elect Georgia Sens. Raphael War- mastery of the Senate to get both passed. That’s what nock and Jon Ossoff. we need from President Biden, who has more expeWe have seen this before. When Black people rience in the Senate than any president since Johnand their allies won political power after the son. The infrastructure bill is vitally important. So is Civil War, white supremacists used violence the Build Back Better agenda. But we need the White A number of factors have to be considered when evalu- and illegitimate power to reverse that progress. House to devote the same level of urgency to the infraating a poll, particularly when that public official is Presi- State-level voter suppression was a core tactic structure of our democracy. President Biden must lead dent Biden who is persistently the target of negative news of Jim Crow. The solution then, and the solu- Senate Democrats in passing voting rights this year— from GOP members. tion today, is strong federal voting rights leg- and getting rid of the filibuster if it stands in the way.

First of all, there are polls, polls, and more polls, and islation that will override those state laws and We need strong, effective moral leadership both inside they fluctuate and only indicate a moment in time with prevent new ones from taking effect. and outside the White House at this moment. The Civil a limited number of respondents. Who is conducting The good news is that the legislation has Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s was a moral the poll, where and among what pool of citi- been written. It has passed the House of movement. It called on Americans to live up to their own zens, and what are the questions being posed Representatives and it has the support See BEN on page 29 are important vectors.

Not too many days have gone by since the withdrawal fiasco of troops and others from Afghanistan, and the blame for the blunders there stopped at the Oval Office, if we listen to Biden dissenters.

But as we have said before, Biden is not alone in determining foreign or domestic policy and, for By SARA VALENCIA QUIÑONEZ It is strange that some general knowledge the most part, he has been a good listener, if somewhat AfroResistance Fellow is treated “with tweezers,” despite the fact slow in his reactions. that the journey of migrant transit began It was good to hear some of our concerns about the preI am Black. I am a Black woman. The de- before 2008, when Colombia granted transit vious administration echoed by actor/director George humanized treatment of my Haitian sisters to some migrants. In 2010 when the natural Clooney. He stated that the nation was still recovering and brothers pains me, because their reality catastrophe of the earthquake in Haiti hapfrom the disaster left by Trump. “It’s like taking a battered is not so different from the reality of those of pened, there was much more reported tranchild and thinking everything’s going to be OK on his first us who live in the Black territories in Colom- sit of migrants from different parts of the day in school,” Clooney told BBC. “There’s a lot of things bia, the invisibility and the struggle to deter- African continent, but yes the vast majority that have to be repaired, you know? There’s a lot of healing ritorialize ourselves is increasingly stronger, was still from Haiti. that has to happen, and it’s going to take time.” the dispossession, the murders of our leadIn Colombia, the transit of the migrant popA battered child is a useful metaphor in place of a bat- ers for defending the right to a dignified life ulation from Haiti from their place of origin, tered America under Trump’s watch, and it will indeed and a choice for the future is so great and as well as Haitians from Chile and Brazil, take a long time to restore a sense of normalcy and well- similar to that of our sisters and brothers that has once again increased. The increase has being. In fact, depending how battered the child was, the it is impossible to be indifferent. become much more noticeable with the condition can linger for years.

My mom and dad went through very dif- earthquake of Aug. 14, 2021, because many Let us hope that it doesn’t take that much time for us to ficult situations when I was a child. They Haitian families decide to leave Haiti to imget over Trump, though he’s still around and as threaten- traveled to the city of Cali, in search of prove their living conditions, embarking on ing as ever with his menacing ways. And even more trou- better living conditions, but the treatment a path, knowing that it can be a path full of bling is the number of prominent elected officials who when they arrived in the city was inhu- death, helplessness and utter desolation at stand by his litany of lies. mane, they came close to having nothing to the mercy of the coyotes, bloodsuckers, who Yes, we have been battered, bruised, and bullied by Trump, feed me, they treated them as thieves when are waiting to obtain a large sum of money in but we should not lose hope and put too much stock in a mo- they wanted to sell their things to get food exchange for promises to bring them closer mentary barometer of Biden’s lack of popularity. and they were kicked out of the room where to the “great American dream.” they lived because they did not have a way Haitian people who have left Chile have to pay. This makes me reflect once again in shared that “You have to take a bus journey the mirror through which I can observe the for about six days, until you reach the counsame situation in which our Haitian broth- try of Ecuador, then cross the border beers and sisters, the degree of discrimination tween Ecuador and Colombia.” What exactly that exists in cities like Cali, which according does this mean? That people need to cross to the last census, has an estimated 26.2% as through one of the 48 irregular crossings, Black people, but in reality we know that we which are in an extension of 586 kilometers are much more. I identify myself with and of the Colombian-Ecuadorian border, with am committed to the Haitian people. Period. the possibility of a confrontation between To talk about the situation of migrants illegal gangs dedicated to drug trafficking, in Colombia turns out to be complex, be- arms trafficking and migrants, and/or transcause despite being an issue that came nationals that dispute the border crossing. out of national spheres, it is treated as if Such is the situation of violation of human it were a taboo.

See HAITI on page 29

Battered, bruised and bullied by Trump

EDITORIAL

Does Haitian migration lack political will or are we still in the days of enslavement?

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS O P I N I O N

There’s a little Henrietta Lacks in all of us DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the New York Amsterdam News. We continue to publish a variety of viewpoints so that we may know the opinions of others that may differ from our own.

ARMSTRONG

WILLIAMS

On a hot summer’s day, Aug. 21, 1920, a woman named Henrietta Lacks was born in Roanake, Virginia to a mother of ten children. Though blessed with the gift of life, she was not blessed with the fruits of good fortune. At the tender age of four, her mother died while giving birth to her tenth child. Not too long after, her father moved the family to Clover, Virginia only to abandon and leave her to her maternal grandfather. During this very delicate period of her life, she tended to the family farm, located on a plantation owned by her great-grandparents; her living space was tucked neatly into the former quarters of slaves. In sixth grade she was forced to make the difficult decision to drop out of school to support her family.

A short while later, at the age of only 14, she gave birth to her first child, and then at eighteen her second. Compounding the misery, pain, and suffering of her childhood, her beloved second child was diagnosed with epilepsy and cerebral palsy.

A bit of breathing room was accorded to Henrietta. After drudging through her childhood, she would marry and give birth to three more children. But all good things must come to an end. All of this would lead to a fateful day in November of 1950, where Henrietta was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cervical cancer. Yet, unbeknownst to her, her cancer would inevitably seal her fate and her legacy.

Doctors from her hospital would go on to collect tissue samples from her uterus only to discover that the immeasurable pain and suffering that Henrietta endured would open the door to a new era of scientific research and advancements in medicine: Henrietta’s cells were immortal.

Cells will typically live for only a short period of time when placed outside the body. This short period of time is not nearly long enough to conduct studies on them. Not only that, but they can only replicate themselves a finite number of times, meaning that at a certain point, no more cells will be reproduced. But Henrietta’s cells were different. Her cells not only survived for long periods of time outside the body, but they also replicated themselves every 24 hours. This natural breakthrough allowed scientists to be able to continually replicate and study real-life human cells outside the human body. Something invaluable to the study of cells. This conve-

nience allowed scientists to develop some of the most widely recognized vaccines, such as the vaccine for Polio and COVID19. Henrietta’s cells have been used even more broadly, to study the effects of radiation, makeup, and even space on human cells—that is right, her cells have been sent to space. In sum, patents that used Henrietta Lacks’ cells total nearly 11,000.

Most believe it to be a virtue to save the life of just one person, but imagine you could save billions. In fact, imagine your endeavors saved the lives of people who have not even been born yet, and will not be born for hundreds, and maybe even thousands, of years. Henrietta unknowingly did just that. And what was she rewarded with for the medical advancements that her cells caused? An agonizing, premature death filled with immeasurable pain and suffering, and a memory that is slowly fading from the public’s mind.

Henrietta Lacks deserves much more recognition than she has received, and she deserved a better life than she was given.

Her life story and legacy ought to be taught in schools, she should be posthumously awarded a Nobel Peace Prize, and statues and plaques of her should be erected in hospitals and medical research centers everywhere. For if it was not for her, then the many scientists who have won the Nobel Peace Prize, and many of the scientists who conduct research on her cells today, would not have the legacy that they have and will have. Of course, no award could possibly be created for someone of her stature.

No living human has come close to saving the number of lives she has, nor anywhere near revolutionizing medicine, the products that we use, and the world that we live in. Henrietta Lacks has not only risen billions from the depths of suffering, but she will continue to do so for decades, and possibly even centuries to come.

Henrietta Lacks’ gift-from-God legacy knows no bounds; she may be the only person that will ever be discovered to have immortal, fast-replicating cells. If that is the case, then even more a reason to treat her like the miracle she was, still is and will be. For, in a thousand years, society may forget who she was, but even then, as is the case now, there is and always will be a little Henrietta Lacks in all of us.

Follow on Twitter: @arightside

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 13

Still processing loss CHRISTINA

GREER PH.D. It has been several weeks since we lost Michael K. Williams and I am still processing. I read almost every thoughtful obituary and reflection on Williams over the past month and am still trying to wrap my head around the loss of such a talented actor. For me, it takes me weeks (sometimes months or even years) to help my brain process what my heart feels when it comes to loss. Even though I never met Williams and did not call him a friend, the loss feels real and painful, nonetheless.

Many fans were introduced to the brilliance of Michael K. Williams from his role as the same gender loving, drug dealer robbing, shotgun toting, Baltimore gangster in HBO’s “The Wire.”

Others knew him from roles on “Boardwalk Empire” and most recently “Lovecraft Country.”

I even loved his guest role on an episode of the comedy “Community” when he played an adjunct professor. It didn’t matter the role, Williams brought a level of depth and dignity to each character he embodied.

I have never suffered from drug addiction and have never had someone close to me who had to deal with the demons that follow. Williams spoke about his long battle with illicit drugs.

He spoke eloquently about giving up on himself and having the love of a mother who would never give up on her son.

Even with the accolades and career successes, Williams still struggled with substance abuse, as so many people continue to.

What I have learned from Williams and the subsequent reading I have done about those

who struggle with addiction is that we must view this journey as a real disease. We must treat our loved ones as if they have a disease that is beyond their control at the moment. The grips of addiction are something psychologists and health care professionals are still trying to fully understand.

I have been trying to understand how people work through and love with their addictions. I am realizing more and more it is about patience, releasing judgment, listening, and so much more. All of the literature essentially states, if you do not suffer from the disease, it is difficult for you to fully understand how substance abuse is a real disease.

If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, there are several free services. One service I found was the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Helpline, which is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Let us honor Michael K. Williams and so many others by supporting those in our lives who may need our help as they live with the challenges of substance abuse.

Christina Greer, Ph.D., is an associate professor at Fordham University, the author of “Black Ethnics: Race,Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream,” and the co-host of the podcast FAQ-NYC.

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Caribbean Update

Woman power in Bahamian parliament, wider Caribbean

By BERT WILKINSON Special to the AmNews At the end of November or early in the new month, a woman will become the newest head of state in the 15-nation Caribbean Community when Barbados dumps Britain’s Queen Elizabeth and replaces her with a local judge as it switches from being merely an independent nation or former British colony, to a proud republic alongside neighbors Guyana and Trinidad.

When respected Justice Sandra Mason—instead of a white elderly lady from London—becomes the face of the nation alongside woman Prime Minister Mia Mottley, she would be adding to a growing family of women across the regional trade bloc who are breaking glass ceilings, crashing through cultural and political barriers and taking up societal positions that were automatically the preserve of men folk.

For example, mid last month, the Progressive Labor Party (PLP) in The Bahamas assumed power after sweeping 32 of the 39 parliamentary seats and since then, new Prime Minister Phillip Davis has vowed to ensure women play a more important role in national and

“This is the first time in the history of our Commonwealth that two women have sat simultaneously as speaker of the house and president of the senate.” political life.

His new parliamentary line-up includes seven female candidates, most of whom won their constituency seats handily. In the previous legislative incarnation, there were five women lawmakers serving in the now opposition Free National Movement (FNM) of former Prime Minister Hubert Minnis.

But more importantly, officials say, is the fact that PM Davis has moved to ensure that two women will preside over both chambers of the archipelago’s parliament. This has not happened before.

Patricia Deveaux was elected speaker of the law-making House of Assembly while Ms. Ja LaShell Adderley was named as president of the unelected senate in The Bahamas’ bicameral parliament.

“This is the first time in the histo-

ry of our Commonwealth that two women have sat simultaneously as speaker of the house and president of the senate. Indeed, this is a seminal moment in our country and, again, it is noteworthy that perhaps during the most challenging times since independence, we have turned to two women to keep order and to maintain order and transparency in our system of democracy,” the Guardian newspaper quoted Adderley, a prominent attorney, as saying. Deveaux is a well-known businesswoman, a former executive secretary of the local drug enforcement unit and former vice chair of the PLP. For his part, Davis said that he plans to appoint more women to senior national positions “but we will continually press to have women involved in the governance

of this country. There is another mechanism that I will be able to engage in to ensure that women are well represented at the parliamentary level—that is through the senate, and you will see that at the appropriate time.”

Down south in Trinidad, Justice Paula Mae Weekes is in her first term as the island’s president after making history by becoming the first woman to hold that position. She is serving alongside Kamla Persad-Bissessar who is the opposition leader and also the country’s first woman prime minister. She lost the 2015 elections to current Prime Minister Keith Rowley and again last year.

Weekes was a former appeals court judge. Her appointment back in 2018 was widely heralded by all political sides.

Several other leading women have served as prime ministers and governors-general across the bloc, mostly notably Eugenia Charles of Dominica, Portia Simpson Miller of Jamaica and Janet Jagan, a white, Jewish American nurse who naturalized as a Guyanese and became the country’s controversial executive president back in 1997, succeeding her late husband.

That ‘s-hole’ is back attacking Haitians FELICIA PERSAUD

IMMIGRATION KORNER Remember the s-hole who occupied the White House from January 2017-January 2021? You know, the one who wanted to be president for life by any means necessary, including hanging his own veep using his not-too-smart devotees?

Well, he is back to publicly spewing his racism and xenophobia again to stir the huge pot of fear heated by Fox News, all thanks to his good friend and Fox moron-inchief, Sean Hannity.

True to form, El Trumpeto, the 21st century anarchist, appeared on Hannity’s show, to talk about his favorite topic—immigrants, especially Black immigrants–– who are coming into America to

kill “Americans,” or as translated, white Americans.

He somehow managed to not say out loud what he and many of his supporters are thinking––you know, about the migrants who are fleeing ‘s-hole’ nations and are trying to turn America into a ‘s-hole’ too.

But while he managed to keep that out of the race-baiting public rant, he was quick to repeat the false claim he made before, that the Haitians seeking refugee status from the southern border, “probably have AIDS.” Yes, you read that correctly. The exact statement was: “So hundreds of thousands of people are coming into our country and if you look at the stats and you look at the numbers, if you look at just––take a look at what’s happening in Haiti, a tremendous problem with AIDS,” Trumpeto said. “Many of those people will probably have AIDS and they’re coming into our country. We don’t do anything about it.

We let everybody come in. It’s like a death wish, like a death wish for our country!”

A “death wish for our country?”

This from a moron who allowed COVID-19 to kill over 600,000 Americans and incited his disciples to try to kill the vice president of the United States and the speaker of the House? But what else is new from the s-hole-in-chief?

When all else fails, play the usual cards of xenophobia to liven up the base, warn them to lock up their daughters and take up arms.

The Black migrants with AIDS are coming to get you!

At no point did Hannity stop him as he made the unfounded claims.

What else is new there too?

Guess Trumpeto is commencing his new presidential campaign–– this time not with “Mexicans Are Rapists,” as the theme, but “Haitians Have AIDS” and will kill the white race in America.

At least now he is not pretending

he never said Haitians have AIDS, as he did back in 2017 when the Times reported that he said 15,000 Haitians sent by that nation’s government to the United States “all had AIDS.” What a total ‘s-hole!’ And what an insult to people living with AIDS and HIV too.

But it’s a good wake-up call to the foolish Black immigrants and Haitians who continue to support the 21st century Hitler and who voted for him.

You can bet if the immigrants were from Norway or any other majority Caucasian-based country, he would be welcoming them with open arms.

Isn’t that the clearest, most transparent visual example of a racist?

All hail Hitler, the 21st century former ‘s-hole-in-chief.’ But watch your back and your front as you spew this bigotry. That Haitian voodoo, aka karma, is very real.

The writer is publisher of NewsAmericasNow

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Arts & Entertainment

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 15

Jazz page 15 | Dance page 17 | Travel page 19 | Books page 21

Pg. 18 Your Stars

Terence Blanchard storms the Met sified with mainstage opera presentations. The five-time Grammy award winner didn’t want to be just a token working out of a vacuum. Earlier this

gram. Geib acknowledged the brutal police killing of George Floyd followed by international protest marches, and the impact of the Black Lives

catalyst that moved such institutions as the Met towards diversity. He also recognizes the fight for equality and inclusion started long before. The early

and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, yes, the brush of the civil rights struggle has a very broad stroke and continues. The Met softly touched the surface of After 138 years of inclusion in 1955 when Will Liverman as Charles in Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones” non-inclusion, the contralto Marian AnMetropolitan Opera fiderson became the nally raised the curtain first African Ameriof its 2021-2022 season can to perform at the with “Fire Shut Up in opera house. my Bones,” their first “I’m honored, but opera to be composed I’m not the first qualiby a Black composfied person to be here,” er, Terence Blanchard. said Blanchard. “Scott The opera is based on Joplin, Hale Smith a 2014 memoir by New and William Grant York Times opinion Still were very accomcolumnist Charles M. plished in in their creBlow, an intense emoative endeavors as tional rollercoaster ride composers and they of a young Black boy all deserved to have coming of age in rural their music played north Louisiana, coping here. They paved the with sexual molestaway for me.” tion, inner rage, confuThe difference in sion and self-discovery. writing a film score The opera boasts an (he has scored 40 inall-Black cast with a licluding 17 of Spike bretto by the writer, Lee’s films, earning filmmaker/director and Oscar nominations for actress Kasi Lemmons 2018’s “BlacKkKlansand conducted by Yanman” as well as 2020’s nick Nézet-Séguin.

“Da 5 Bloods.” Quincy “I would give lanJones scored 24 films guage to all the others not counting scores (Ken Howard/Met Opera photos) who had suffered as for TV series) explains Walter Russell III as Char’es-Baby in a scene from Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones” I had. I would show Blanchard, is that “I them what it looked like am helping someone to survive the pain, beelse tell their story 90% trayal and isolation and of the time. In composcome out on the other ing an opera, I am tellside,” explained Blow ing the story the way I in his NYT column refeel it happened from lating to his memoir. beginning to end.”

Blanchard’s ”Fire He is still fine-tuning Shut Up in My his skills on composBones“ opened while ing for voices. “When the country is still batyou write for cello, you tling the ongoing write for cello,” he said.

COVID-19 pandem“But no baritone is the ic that closed the Met same; no tenor is the in March 2020. Howsame. And all those ever, this historical culvoices, where do they tural moment for Black bloom in their regispeople and the Met ters? So being able to would not be stopped control that and maby any pandemic. After nipulate it, that’s been opening night, the a huge learning curve.” house remains at caBlanchard’s compospacity (3,800 seats) and ing style is based on Blacks are supporting jazz technique that inthis opera with vigorcludes charting the ous enthusiasm. rhythms of the text Blanchard gives credit to year the Met recruited com- Matter movement sparked execution of George Stinney and a series of chord progresPeter Geib, general manager of posers Valerie Coleman, Jessie the institution to respond. Jr., the killing of Emmett Till, sions, from which the melodies the Met, for accepting the chal- Montgomery and Joel Thomp- Blanchard agrees that many assassination of Martin Luther emerge.

See JAZZ on page 16 lenge of becoming more diver- son to its commissioning pro- folks see Floyd’s killing as the King Jr., the 14th Amendment,

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Continued from page 15

(Jonathan Tichler/Met Opera photo) Chris Kenney and Walter Russell III in the simulcast performance event that took place in Marcus Garvey Park

stage production at the Met. “I related to a lot of things in the book,” said Blanchard, also a native of Louisiana, like Blow. “I felt his sense of isolation that he was going through in life.” These same feelings are expressed in the composer’s music that pulls your emotional strings like a master puppeteer, as the acting draws you into a deep wrenching story that crosses racial lines and all levels of society.

William Grant Still first performed in 1963, at the Opera Theatre of St. Louis in Missouri.

At the same opera theater 50 years later in 2013 Blanchard’s first opera, Champion, premiered, the life of boxer Emile Griffith. “Fire Shut Up in my Bones” premiered there in 2019, and the composer Anthony Davis’ opera “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” also premiered there and will receive its Met premiere in 2023. “The

(Bill Moore photo)

This may be the first time a jazz quartet and the orchestra share the Met’s pit. Even so, there is no real swinging.

Blanchard noted that he didn’t want it to sound like Count Basie’s band but he has effortlessly blended the mix of jazz, blues and gospel in the larger classical pond.

Unlike most contemporary operas in French, Italian or German, this one rests in English, offering a more complete indulgence for the audience. There were definitive scenes where I felt the music tugged at my emotions. When the molestation was about to take place in the bedroom with Char’es-Baby (played by the treble Walter Russell III), one could experience his fear, anxiety and utter anger in not being able to protect himself. As the journey unfolds, we meet an older Charles (played by the baritone Will Liverman) as a student at Grambling State College. During a love scene, he pours out his heart and shares his deeply held secret to Greta (played by Angel Blue) only to be informed she has a boyfriend. He is completely devastated, but Blanchard’s music brings all these emotions to life.

One of the most dynamic music scenes take place in Act III, the Kappa Alpha Psi step show. It is that special night when the pledge period is over and it’s time for the now new brothers to perform on stage.

The Kappas are known for their dynamic steps, “Kappa Kane” and “cane walk.” As a former graduate of an HBCU and having attended many Greek nights, the staged Kappa portrayal couldn’t have been more authentic. Camille A. Brown is both the production’s choreographer and one of its codirectors, in partnership with James Robinson. She also choreographed the Met’s 2019 production of “Porgy and Bess” which returns to the Met in late October, and knew that she wanted to include a step dance. “I thought it was especially important here,” she says of her expanded choreography.

“We are talking about bringing a step that comes from the rich history of the African diaspora inside the Metropolitan Opera, where, at one point, Black people were not allowed on stage.” With this latest credit she makes some additional “Fire” history as the first Black female director to create a main

M

Opera Theater of St. Louis is very aggressive when it comes to new works,” stated Blanchard during our phone interview.

Although his father was a parttime opera singer, composing operas was not on his list. “Going to his rehearsals every Wednesday night made a mark on my brain for sure,” said the musician.

The production will travel to the Lyric Opera of Chicago in March and the Los Angeles Opera in a future season.

While opening night is over, Blanchard says the butterflies are still in his stomach although he is sitting in the audience. “I always feel I can make things better but the response from the community is great and I am over the moon about it.” Blanchard tries to attend the performance every night, saying “it’s not every day I get to compose an opera.” I could see his smile through the phone.

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October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 17

October 2021 Dance Calendar

By CHARMAINE PATRICIA WARREN Special to the AmNews

(Erica Spizz photo)

This month continues with myriad dance offerings virtually and in-person. Topping the list is “Crossing The Line Festival” (Oct. 20 - Nov. 6) which spotlights Africa’s cultural renaissance through interdisciplinary artists. Featured will be: “Before the whisper becomes the word,” the roomsized video installation by Igbo-American artist Okwui Okpokwasili, in collaboration with Peter Born; “Nehanda,” the audio work by nora chipaumire, a native of Zimbabwe and central Mozambique; and “On the way, undone” by Okpokwasili and Born. Also on the lineup is singer Somi, plus works by Chirstopher Myers and Kneza Schaal. These performances and events are both virtual and in-person. For more information visit www.fiaf.org

Okwui Okpokwasili before the whisper becomes the word still

ALSO THIS MONTH: Oct. 6-19 (Virtual) – Jamar Roberts’ dance film “Holding Space,” focusing on “…confinement, healing and the quest for sustainable pathways towards wholeness,” according to the release, airs on the Alvin Ailey

American Dance Theater’s “Ailey All Access” and YouTube channels. For more information visit www.alvinailey.org Oct. 13-24 (In-Person) – Fall for Dance Festival, the annual festival at New York City Center which

brings dance to many for just $35, returns for year 18 with five diverse programs including performances or works by Ayodele Casel Lar Lubovitch, Adrian DanchigWaring and Joseph Gordon, The Verdon Fosse Legacy, Georgina Pazcoguin, Justin Peck, Herman Cornejo, A.I.M by Kyle Abraham, BalletX, Ephrat Asherie Dance, and more. For more information visit www.nycitycenter.org

the month. For more information visit www.baadbronx.org

Oct. 18 & 19 (Virtual) – Gibney’s fall season continues with Kayla Hamilton and Rodney Evans on a film project named “Vision Portraits” with Black, queer and disabled artist in the series “Sorry I Missed Your Show” (10/18) and as part of the “Deeper Lecture” series, interdisciplinary artist and advocate David Thomson delves Oct. 14, 21 & 28 (Virtual & In- into questions of care, listenPerson) – At BAAD!, Kayla Hamil- ing, change, trust and resilience ton and mayfield brooks are part (10/19). For more information of “Dancing Futures” (10/14), visit www.gibneydance.org the shared evening of works by gender non-conforming, genderOct. 30 (Virtual) – For Dansqueer, non-binary, womyn, and pace Project’s DraftWork series, trans artists of color titled “leave Marguerite Hemmings / Kristhe room,” which will feature tel Baldoz & Anh Vo will share works by Marble Jumbo Radio, works in varying stages of develNicolás Dumit Estévez Raful opment followed by a conversaEspejo, Jasmine Hearn and Luis tion and Q&A between the artists Lara Malvacías / 3RD CLASS CIT- and DraftWork curator Ishmael IZEN (10/21), and Rourou Ye’s Houston-Jones. For more inforonline exhibition, “May I Dance mation and RSVP visit www.danon Your Screen?” (10/28) closes spaceproject.org

Black choreographer makes history at New York City Ballet On Sept. 30, the talented young Black female choreographer Sidra Bell made history when her new ballet was one of two world premieres featured on a program showcasing exciting artists from the worlds of dance and fashion at New York City Ballet’s ninth annual Fall 2021 Fashion Gala at Lincoln Center.

As a choreographer, Bell’s work, often performed by her company Sidra Bell Dance New York (SBDNY), has been called fascinating, exuberant, audacious, captivating, genre-busting and at the forefront of innovative contemporary dance. After viewing a SBDNY concert steeped in visually vibrant imagery and innovative no-holdsbarred physicality that wrestles with such poignant, provocative concepts as identity, intimacy and community, one critic described Bell’s work as comprising the “crisp rhythms of street dance, the stark, deep-queer glamour of a fashion catwalk, the enigmatic drama that just does not quit.”

Now, this talented artist whose work sits at the dynamic intersection of ballet, seminal modern techniques and the funky energetic innovation of hip hop, has made a historic leap. With the NYCB debut of her work, which also showcases a collaboration with Louisiana native, Brooklyn-based fashion designer Christopher John Rogers, Bell became the first Black

female choreographer to set a work on the NYCB since the company was founded in 1948.

Asked what inspired this historic move, NYCB Associate Artistic Director Wendy Whelan says Bell had been on her radar for quite some time noting Bell’s “love for elements of design within her work. Bodies, lighting, clothing, music. She’s daring and curious and she loves process and play.” In fact, while Whelan was in talks for her own historic position, she says when discussion turned to the design for a season, “I knew then, when I’m choosing new choreographers, one had to be a Black woman. It had never been done and I just knew that this was a voice that needed to be heard, to be given the stage and a platform.” While this was a while ago, it is finally happening in 2021.

Work on the project began, Bell says, in 2019, when Whelan invited her to choreograph for the 2020 Fashion Gala. She immediately went to work pulling together the disparate elements needed to create a distinctive work, choosing dancers, costumes and choreography. Then COVID happened.

The 2020 Gala was postponed but, in the meantime, Whelan asked Bell to participate in the NYCB’s 2020 Digital Festival, a natural for a choreographer who has worked with technology before and whose adaptability meshed with the unique challenges of COVID protocols. Bell also worked with another

Sidra Bell

familiar element—music composed by her father, jazz musician Dennis Bell. The result, a delightful cite-specific piece that deepened the collaborative experience with NYCB, a collaborative feeling that seems to have carried over into the work with the company and, of course, designer Christopher John Rogers, making for what Bell calls a “super fun and very joyful process.”

When Bell describes her background, she seems made for this breakthrough moment. “I started out with an entrepreneurial spirit,” she says recounting how even as an undergraduate at Yale University, she had founded the Alliance for Dance at Yale College, offering performance workshops, working in partnership with the school administration to bring the art of dance to the campus while also doing out-

(Umi Akiyoshi Photography)

BY ZITA ALLEN Special to the AmNews

reach with community organizations. After graduation, she founded the nonprofit SBDNY, focused on doing live performances, educational programming, and teaching in Harlem-based community centers, including the Joseph P. Kennedy Performing Arts Center on 135th Street. Bell attributes the self-starter, innovative, adaptive, spirit that allows her to work “outside the box in different kinds of spaces,” to her training which began at age seven at the Dance Theatre of Harlem where she studied until she was 15 years old. “There is a lineage and a history that I feel a part of. I was always connected to the vision of Arthur Mitchell and the impactfulness of the founding of DTH. It permeated that environment where, as students we were able every day to see an exemplary level of excel-

lence in the women and the men.

There were just so many incredible women of color to look up to as a young woman, so I’m very grateful that I was placed in that situation.

The history of Arthur Mitchell is just so meaningful.”

Bell uses the phrase “against the odds” and explains what she means by referring to her experience as a woman of color in the traditionally white space of ballet, saying, “For me it’s always been against the odds a little bit although I was always raised to believe that I could do anything. Yet, I guess I know it’s always been against the odds in some ways.

I’ve always had this huge vision. I started making work when I was in high school and at that point, I was at the Alvin Ailey School. So I have the vision of these incredible huge Black-lead organizations.” Bell says the Ailey organization and the Dance Theatre of Harlem helped to fortify her sense of the possibilities.

She recalls Denise Jefferson, head of the Ailey School who Bell says, “was a mentor and role model for me…I had this inspiration of people that were just doing it and doing it for the love of it.”

Now, as a young choreographer with her own company and a history-making commission for the New York City Ballet’s 2021 Fall Fashion Gala, like her mentors and role models Sidra Bell is doing it and doing it for the love of it while, at the same time, serving as a role model for other young aspiring African American female choreographers.

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KYA FRENCH October 14, 2021 — October 20, 2021 REBIRTH OF A NEW NATION: AFTER A WHIRLWIND OF CHANGES WITH THE CELESTIAL PLANETS Vinateria IN RETROGRADE, PLUTO STATIONED DIRECT AT 24 DEGREES, AND SATURN AT 6 DEGREES IS NOW IN DIRECT MOTION. JUPITER AND MERCURY WILL BE STATIONED DIRECT BY THE 18TH OF OCTOBER TO ASSIST IN THE RELIEF FROM THE SHORT PERIOD, FROM LATE APRIL 29 THROUGH OCT. 18, OF THE WAIT-AND-SEE GAME GIVING US A PREVIEW OF WHAT’S IN STORE. REFLECT ON THOSE DATES TO SEE WHAT EVENTS OCCURRED, AND WHAT WERE YOU DOING? WHAT KIND OF PLANS, ARRANGEMENTS, COURSES, MEETINGS, SELF-INVESTMENT DURING THIS PERIOD WERE MADE? DID YOU SET GOALS AND STRUCTURE YOURSELF FOR GROWTH? TAKE A MOMENT IN SILENCE WITHIN THE STILLNESS TO REFLECT. “ANY CHANGE, EVEN A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER, IS ALWAYS ACCOMPANIED BY DISCOMFORTS.” ARNOLD BENNETT

Allow bygones to be bygones, and move forward with your life. Now that Pluto has transited Dec 22 – Jan 21 directly on Oct 6th in Capricorn, at 24 degrees along with Saturn in Aquarius on Oct 11, at 6 degrees, there should be a return to normalcy. Start planning or working on projects, left on the back burner that require discipline and focus to complete. This cycle favors your career with sudden opportunities, advancements, investors or simply understanding your worth within your work. You may think about becoming a teacher, speaker, advisor, manager, or specialist in subjects you're gifted in. Opportunity knocks, but it's up to you to decide on the route you want to explore.

Capricorn

What's life without going after your dreams, talAquarius ents, skills, or something you have a passion for, no Jan 22 – Feb 19 matter what anyone says you can and cannot do?

When you wake up, what's on your mind? What are your goals, dreams, and ambitions in life? This week, set new and short-term goals to manifest tangible results. The money you'll receive from achieving your goals means more due to it being a reflection of what you can bring to the table to help yourself and others.

Everything you do matters down to the choicPisces es you make in life now. This week isn’t just Feb 20 – Mar 20 about being in the spotlight. You’re in the spotlight for the information you have or your profession that people find of service and wisdom in value. When you know your value, you position yourself differently, and your life shifts accordingly. Continue to invest in yourself. Know that everyone has a story to share yet not everyone has the courage to share knowledge that their story can help someone. Share your story.

Aries

This year’s theme is about change, and how you are going to facilitate that change. If what Mar 21 – Apr 21 you are doing is keeping you in the same circle yet, in a different way with the same outcome. You have to create the life you want by changing your thoughts and perspective on life. People think having a routine is silly, yet it keeps them sharp until their goal is accomplished. Those without a routine are just idling their time. People say time is money, and money is time. How you invest your time is valuable and it speaks volumes about what you spend your time on. Time is important just like the air you breathe. What are you willing to invest time in to live a higher quality of life?

Taurus

What you know is one thing, and what you see, hear, and feel is another. This week your mind can Apr 22 – May 21 play tricks on you so it’s best to follow up on the ideas or concepts, and not to meddle in other’s people business no matter how tempting. Reflect on the guidance and habits that you created to get you where you are today. Don’t allow anyone to steer you in the wrong direction. Know thyself, and know your worth.

Invest in items that build your self-esteem, your focus, and the ability to create.

There is a lesson in disguise, yet your focus is Gemini to create a better future for yourself. Think of the May 22 – June 21 changes occurring within your relationships as an indicator of reordering the direction of your steps differently. Don’t give up as the energy at first may appear slow. In the meantime, listen to audio, read a book, or go for a walk to uncloud your mind then the answers about what to do next will appear. Take a risk on life as setbacks are a part of the course to shed off the old, and persevere through any adversity as you take on the new.

Self-discipline is required as work-related issues will appear which require you to June 22–July 23 look for the details, and ask the right questions to get the answers you need to resolve a situation. This week, pick up or create a new skill as time management and organization takes priority this week. Trim the fat/excess where it’s needed, and donate any unwanted items within the home to create a cleaner space. A relationship of some kind, be it romantic, a partnership or a business venture can start or stop.

Cancer

When you look in the mirror, it’s a reflection of the spiritual being in you which reflects the outside and what people see. Be properly prepared for the things you ask for and seek for it is another reflection of being ready to do the work to receive the blessing. Schedule time to nurture yourself in moments of silence and stillness. Your time is valuable and what you do with it creates a better future for yourself.

Leo

July 24 – Aug 23

Virgo

What is your mentality this week as it relates to getting what you need to be completed? Are you in front of the class taking notes, and asking questions? Your mind is like a sponge this week, soaking up knowledge that crosses your path. With the information provided, how can you relate to and share your perspective, and melt it down for others to understand? The lesson is you learn and seek tasks that may be difficult to keep you abreast in your schedule.

Aug 24 – Sep 23

Libra

Listen more before you speak as the answers to your questions will be answered. As you progress in life your values change, and so do your circle of friends, and that part of life as well. If you have to find different ways to find new like-minded beings and souls, you’ll be more than thankful you surrounded yourself with positive people. Community outreach activities are great when sharing your knowledge with others, and networking is important to meet and learn from others in addition.

Sept 24 – Oct 23

Motivated yourself to push and get where you want to be in life? It can be as simple as Oct 24 – Nov 22 setting goals like losing six pounds, a change your diet or work out a plan of action within the next 3 – 6 months to accomplish. Sit in quietness every day before you start and when you do, your day will go by much better due to the fact you’re setting your intentions. Your peace of mind is priceless. A conversation with a loved one or close friend can bring clarity to a situation, or that some truth is being revealed to you.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

We were made to be creators of our destiny. This week you’re willing to buckle down, and put in the work to create a product, service, or be of help to others who can then share their expertise with you along your journey. Fulfill your mission this week as you’re in the spotlight and everywhere you go you see someone you know, or they know you, or of you. Motivate your peers, family, spouse, etc., as you never know how your words of encouragement can make someone’s day or inspire them to follow their dreams.

Nov 23 – Dec 21

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Resort & Travel

Costa Rica’s under-the-radar beaches

By SHERYL NANCE-NASH Special to the AmNews

Playa Biesanz in Costa Rica (Photo courtesy of the Costa Rica Tourism Board)

There’s a premium on privacy and seclusion for many travelers right now.

Some aren’t in the mood for big crowds, be it COVID concerns or just wanting a quieter vibe. The call of nature is strong.

For sure, the thought of spending time on a beach in Costa Rica sounds downright delightful. Better still, if it’s not where everyone else will be.

Costa Rica is home to some of the world’s beautiful, remote beaches. They are not too far from popular spots but be ready for a bit of adventure to drive backroads to get to nirvana.

Here’s where to go for an under the radar beach escape in Costa Rica.

Playa Biesanz, Central Pacific Situated near Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most visited national parks, Playa Biesanz is a “secret” yet easily accessible white-sand beach covered by lush rainforest, home to almost 200 species of birds and over 100 species of mammals. There is a 10-minute downhill trail to the beach that offers several opportunities to spot wildlife, including the ever-so-cute three-toed sloth and howler monkey. Playa Biesanz is known for its see several signs at Playa San Juanillo peaceful tides, making it ideal for snorkel- about keeping the beach clean; by all ing and scuba diving. Feast your eyes on means be respectful of this gem. more than 80 species of fish.

Playa Conejera, North Guanacaste Playa Ventanas, South Pacific Coast Another beautiful, lesser-known On Costa Rica’s South Pacific coast beach in the Guanacaste province is lies Playa Ventanas, whose name Playa Conejera, which literally transrefers to the caves on the beach that lates to “Rabbit Beach.” Getting to Playa are reminiscent of little windows, or Conejera is an adventure in itself. You “ventanas.” This unique black-sand must trek through the rainforest to beach is beloved for its caves that you access its turquoise waters and a rocky can explore if you dare, and surround- outcrop that almost divides the beach in ing jungle, teeming with toucans and two. Locals joke that the outcrop is remscarlet macaws. The road to Playa Ven- iniscent of rabbit ears, hence the beach’s tanas is hilly and unpaved, but despite name. Natural shade is provided by the that fact you’ll be able to successfully many large trees lining the shore, and its navigate the terrain with a 4x4 vehicle. calm waters and colorful reefs offer ideal This trip is really off the grid, be sure underwater exploration. to pack food, beverages and anything else you might need for the day.

Playa Arrecife, South Caribbean Just a 20-minute drive from the laidPlaya San Juanillo, North Guanacaste back and culturally diverse beach town If one beach is not enough, San of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast is Juanillo in the Guanacaste province Playa Arrecife, a golden-sand beach surgives you a two-fer and is an exam- rounded by IG-worthy palm trees and ple of Mother Nature at her best. Lo- bright blue waters. Arrecife means reef cated an hour and a half drive from and is a nod to its offshore reef, which Tamarindo via unpaved and hilly ter- provides the opportunity for an excellent rain, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for snorkeling experience. Situated between this exciting, bumpy ride. High tide is Punta Uva and Manzanillo, the road in the best time to swim in the crystal- town is paved and framed by jungle and clear waters, and water shoes are rec- beach, which equals a smooth drive. ommended for exploring the seabed. Consider renting bikes in Puerto Viejo Towards the end of Playa San Juanillo and ride on the dirt-paved roads. Doing lies a path that leads to the “Mirador so will make it easier to spend the day exPlaya San Juanillo,” where you’ll dis- ploring Playa Arrecife and other nearby cover a spectacular view of the point at beaches such as Playa Cocles, which is which the two beaches intersect. You’ll known for its top surfing waves.

DAZZLING!

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A Tree Grows in East Harlem

By EILEEN BARETT Special to the AmNews, @AromasBakery As I made my way through the Jefferson Gardens on 2nd avenue, I heard someone say, “We’ve got a beautiful day for planting, and once we plant trees together we are friends for life.” The self-declared “TreeEO” and co-creator of The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation, Cem Akin, was welcoming the group of volunteers to the final planting of the calendar year.

This event was made possible by the collaboration between Vitafusion Fruit Tree Project and Concrete Safaris. The day began with the ceremonial planting of a pear tree at the entrance of the garden followed by a detailed demonstration and tutorial on how to properly plant a tree. Volunteers worked in teams to dig the holes, release the young trees from the containers in which they were grown, plant them, and cover the planted trees with protective mulch.

Once the hard work was complete, the trees are now left in the hands of par-

(Eileen Barett photos)

ticipants of the Concrete Safari, ages 7 through 24, who will care for the garden and its crops throughout the year; by next summer, Jefferson Gardens will have its first crop of blueberries and blackberries.

So how does a vitamin company end up planting trees? I caught up with Michael Vercelletto, the marketing director of Vitafusion Gummy Vitamins. He said, “It’s simple. We believe in delicious nutrition for all, and we get involved where there is a disparity for access to delicious nutrition.”

While it will take two to three years for the apple and pear trees to bear fruit, these trees will feed the neigh-

borhood every June to October for generations to come. It looks like my years of heading up to the Hudson Valley for apple and berry picking will soon be a thing of the past.

Join me for a virtual cooking session on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate the American Culinary Federations Childhood Nutrition Day. Register for free at http://bitly.ws/hbfv.

Pop up a celebratory snack (Family Features) Popcorn lovers rejoice: October is National Popcorn Poppin’ Month, a seasonal celebration of one of America’s oldest and most beloved snack foods.

As farmers head into the fields to harvest crops, families and friends gather to enjoy this fits many moods and occasions. ever-popular treat. Whether it’s prepared on the Pop up a bowl and join the Popcorn Poppin’ Month stovetop, in the microwave or ready to eat from the celebration with more recipes at popcorn.org. bag, Americans consume 15 billion quarts of this whole grain each year.

Toffee Almond Chocolate Popcorn Celebrated for its seed-to-snack simplicity, popTotal time: 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes chilling corn is also non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, sugar- time free and naturally low in fat and calories, which Servings: 4 makes it an easy fit for dietary preferences—and it’s budget-friendly.

4 cups popped popcorn Add in popcorn’s irresistible smell, taste 3/4 cup chopped toasted almonds, divided and versatility, and it’s easy to understand 6 tablespoons toffee bits, divided its popularity. With so many different ways 6 ounces milk chocolate, melted to eat it—plain, butter y or loaded with good1 ounce dark chocolate, melted ies like these Toffee Almond Chocolate Popcorn or Churro Popcorn versions—popcorn In large bowl, toss popcorn, 1/2 cup almonds and 4 ta-

blespoons toffee bits. Drizzle with melted milk chocolate; toss until well coated.

Transfer to parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with dark chocolate; sprinkle with remaining almonds and toffee bits. Refrigerate about 30 minutes, or until set; break into clusters.

Substitution: Use dark chocolate for milk chocolate, if preferred.

Churro Popcorn Servings: 2-3 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 tablespoon powdered sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons butter 6 cups popped popcorn

In small bowl, mix granulated sugar, powdered sugar and cinnamon.

In small saucepan, melt butter; stir in 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar.

In large bowl, toss popcorn with cinnamon butter until well coated. Sprinkle evenly with remaining cinnamon sugar; toss to coat well.

Tips: For spicy variation, add 1 teaspoon spicy chipotle seasoning. Serve with hot chocolate.

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Two powerful books on oppression and healing

By JORDANNAH ELIZABETH Special to the AmNews In this postmodern global era, there is still so much to be said, discussed and unpacked on the topic of anti-Blackness and trauma. We find ourselves in a time where many, particularly white people and colonialized cultures, do not fully acknowledge that the root of oppression and design of many countries is based in anti-Blackness, violence towards Black people and the attempt to erase any morsel of brilliance, invention and intelligence from African-descended people. It is important for all to explore the reality and continued racist structural core of our globalized existence as we move through life. It is even more important that Black people are educating ourselves on these topics in order to be aware, knowledgeable and able to understand our history so that we may heal and move forward by breaking down the inner walls and barriers that keep us from living healthy, informed lives.

There are two books that can guide any reader who seeks to know more about Black oppression and how to heal Black minds and bodies from centuries of generational torment and erasure.

The New York Times bestselling book “My Grandmother’s Hands: Ra-

cialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies” by Resmaa Menakem spent 27 weeks on the bestseller’s list due to the incredible insight and depth into the physical and emotional harm discrimination causes to the Black body.

The publisher describes the book by stating “The consequences of racism can be found in our bodies––in skin and sinew, in bone and blood. In this ground-breaking, inspiring work, therapist Resmaa Menakem examines the damage, the physical conse-

torical presence of anti-Blackness throughout diverse cultures.

The book “investigates the ways in which the dehumanization of Black people has been foundational to the establishment of modernity. Drawing on Black feminism, Afropessimism, and critical race theory, the book’s contributors trace forms of anti-Blackness across time and space, from nineteenthcentury slavery to the categorization of Latinx in the 2020 census, from South Africa and Palestine to the Chickasaw homelands, from the White House to convict lease camps, prisons, and schools.” This book is an important tool that will allow readers to articulate the travesties done to Black people all over the world and combat the narrative that race has nothing to do with how our world has been structured. Anti-Blackness is a thread that can be followed throughout global colonization and can be found even before the world was overtaken by Europe.

Knowledge is power and this book will certainly educate anyone who is interested in portions of history that are often untold in the media and in educational institutions.

quences of discrimination, from the perspective of body-centered psychology. He argues that until we learn to heal and overcome the generational anguish of white supremacy, we will all continue to bear its scars.”

This book is a helpful guide for those who want to heal and rejuvenate after being born into a world that was not built for the Black body to succeed, You can order a copy of “Antithrive or feel comfort.

“Anti-Blackness” by editors Moon- Blackness” from www.dukeupress.

Kie Jung and João H. Costa Vargas edu and “My Grandmother’s Hands” explores the international and his- from wherever books are sold.

Hundreds celebrate at 5th Sugar Hill Music Fest

(Bill Moore photos)

Harlem’s rich musical and spoken word history was honored and celebrated by the heritage-preservation organization, While We Are Still Here (www.whilewearestillhere.org), at its 5th Sugar Hill Music Festival which recently took place on the Sugar Hill Luminaries Lawn at 155th Street and Edgecombe Avenue, Harlem, NY. Karen D. Taylor, founder and executive director of While We Are Still Here, organized this year’s festival to pay tribute to two local artists who achieved national and global fame––the Mizell Brothers, who lived at 555 Edgecombe Avenue, during their youth, and Gil Scott-Heron, who was also a resident of 555 Edgecombe Avenue.

The Sugar Hill Music Festival featured performances by: Burnt Sugar in a tribute to the Mizell Brothers, pioneering musicians who helped produce the signature sound of greats like Marvin Gaye. Burnt Sugar “honors its deepest inspirations, the first post-modernists of American music – Duke Ellington, Sun Ra, Parliament Funkadelic and The Art Ensemble of Chicago.”

er, and recording artist who became a global voice for justice. Award-winning vocalist, arranger, educator, and composer Charenée Wade has excited audiences all over the world with her ingenuity and vibrancy. Her latest CD, offering: “The Music of Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson,” is a powerful reinterpretation of the poet’s musical library.

banks studied with the legendary Dr. Dozens of fans lined up to buy OyeBilly Taylor at Temple University, then wole’s book, courtesy of 2 Leaf Press, headed to New York to become a hotly and get an autograph and a photo.

While We Are Still Here is dedicated to sought-after horn player. gathering and sharing the vast history Mistress of ceremonies was radio of Harlem. It has been in the forefront of spearheading high-quality prohost and producer Joyce Jones.

“Reading Across Harlem” featured gramming in the arts and humanities an interview with legendary poet throughout the community and apAbiodun Oyewole, founding member preciates the generous support of the The Sugar Hill Quartet, led by saxo- of The Last Poets and self-described J. Rosamond Johnson Foundation and phonist, Patience Higgins, the Sugar “author, musician, mentor, father, Mélanie Edwards, without whom this Hill Quartet carries on the tradition of lifelong learner.” Oyewole, author of event would not have been possible. the high-energy, musical excellence “Branches of the Tree of Life: The ColLike While We Are Still Here on Facethat Harlem is known for. The Quar- lected Poems of Abiodun Oyewole, tet was well known for many years as 1969-2013,” was interviewed by Afri- book https://www.facebook.com/edgethe house band at St. Nick’s Pub. can American studies professor Hank combeavenue and follow on Twitter Charenée Wade in a tribute to Gil Williams whose dissertation is a pro- @edgecombeavenue; and Instagram Scott-Heron, poet, author, composThe Duane Eubanks Quintet––Eu- file of the early years of The Last Poets. edgecombeavenue

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Cudjoe Lewis’ saga as told by Zora Neale Hurston in ‘Barracoon’

By HERB BOYD Special to the AmNews

During a recent panel discussion at the Brooklyn Book Festival, the presence of Lucy Anne Hurston was instructive as she delved into the history and legacy of her aunt Zora Neale Hurston, most notably her publication of “Barracoon.” It was not until recently that Hurston’s story about the last slave ship to arrive in the United States and her engrossing interview with Cudjoe or Cudjo Lewis was finally published by Amistad. Even so, there are still thousands of Americans who have yet to discover Lewis and his phenomenal tale.

Lewis’ saga is one that Hurston delivered intact, recording Lewis’ words as he spoke them, dialect and all—that may have been one of the problems halting publication, though a deeper concern was who the writer was and the subject. Black writers, particularly one so emboldened with integrity as Hurston, have often met with reluctance when presenting their creations, and Hurston did a remarkable job of capturing Lewis’ trials and tribulations, in his own voice.

Born as Kossula or Kossola c.

1841 in a region of Africa now called Benin, he was a member of the Yoruba people. “My father he identify O-lo-loo-ay,” he told Hurston in 1935 in one of several interviews she conducted with him.

“He not a wealthy man. He have three wives. My mama she identify Ny-fond-lo-loo. She de second spouse. My mama have one son befo’ me so I her second little one.

She have 4 mo’ chillun after me, however dat ain’ all de chillun my father received. He received 9 by de first spouse and three by de third spouse.” And this is the way Hurston retained his language and the challenges she faced in the transcription.

But let’s allow Zora to recount their engagement. “I had met Cudjo Lewis for the first time in July 1927. I was sent by Dr. Franz Boas to get a firsthand report of the raid that had brought him to America and bondage, for Dr. Carter G. Woodson of

the Journal of Negro History. I had talked with him in December of that same year and again in 1928. Thus, from Cudjo and from the records of the Mobile Historical Society, I had the story of the last load of slaves brought into the United States.

“The four men responsible for this last deal in human flesh, before the surrender of Lee at Appomattox should end the 364 years of Western slave trading, were the three Meaher brothers and one Captain [William “Bill”] Foster. Jim, Tim, and Burns

est boat in their possession, and she was the one selected to make the trip. Captain Foster seems to have been the actual owner of the vessel. Perhaps that is the reason he sailed in command. The clearance papers state that she was sailing for the west coast for a cargo of red palm oil.

“Foster,” Zora continued, “had a crew of Yankee sailors and sailed directly for Whydah [Ouidah], the slave port of Dahomey. The Clotilda slipped away from Mobile as secretly as possible so as not to arouse the curiosity of the Gov-

Cudjo Lewis

Meaher were natives of Maine.

They had a mill and shipyard on the Alabama River at the mouth of Chickasabogue Creek (now called Three-Mile Creek) where they built swift vessels for blockade running, filibustering expeditions, and river trade. Captain Foster was associated with the Meahers in business. He was ‘born in Nova Scotia of English parents.’”

Zora listed several reasons given for this trip to the African coast in 1859, “with the muttering thunder of secession heard from one end of the United States to the other. Some say that it was done as a prank to win a bet. That is doubtful. Perhaps they believed with many others that the abolitionists would never achieve their ends. Perhaps they merely thought of the probable profits of the voyage and so undertook it. The Clotilda was the fast-

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ernment. It had a good voyage to within a short distance of the Cape Verde Islands. Then a hurricane struck and Captain Foster had to put in there for repairs.

While he was on dry-dock, his crew mutinied. They demanded more pay under the threat of informing a British man-of-war that was at hand.”

According to Hurston and other authorities on the slave trade, Lewis or Kossula was taken prisoner by Dahomey Amazons in 1860 and taken to the port of Ouidah where he was sold to Captain William Foster of the “Clotilda” ship. The ship belonged to Timothy Meaher of Mobile, Alabama. What Meaher and his associates had done was a violation of the law that prohibited the transporting of slaves. Facing charges for the violation, Meaher and his partners, be-

tween the time when summons were issued for their arrest and when they received them, dispersed their captives, hid them, thereby avoiding prosecution, since the evidence was hidden.

With the advent of the Civil War, Lewis and the other captives lived as de facto slaves with various relatives of Meaher. It was during this time that Lewis acquired his new name. The Emancipation Proclamation also brought a new condition and they set out to find a community at Magazine Point, just north of Mobile. Soon they were joined by other formerly enslaved Africans and named the region Africatown, now a historic district. In the 1930s, Hurston began her folkloristic trips to the South and Lewis became her most resourceful informant on the creation of the town and the adventure aboard the last slave ship.

In the 1860s, Lewis began a common-law relationship with another survivor of Clotilda, called Celia and they formally married and had six children.

Lewis outlived his wife and all of his children. He worked as farmer and laborer until 1902 in Mobile where he was injured in a train collision. Unable to resume his work, he became a sexton at the local church where he was supported by the community.

It was not until Oct. 24, 1868, that Cudjo and the other African-born captives became naturalized citizens. By then he had acquired enough information about the American way to sue the railroad company after his accident who refused to pay damages. He retained an attorney and won a settlement of $650 but the award was overturned on an appeal.

Two years after Hurston published her most famous book “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” Cudjo died, reportedly at the age of 95 or 96. His reputation as being the last survivor of the slave trade was contested, and that’s a subject we will return to later in more expansive way.

ACTIVITIES FIND OUT MORE The work and research of Hurston’s niece and historian Sylviane Diouf are reliable and valuable resources on this subject.

DISCUSSION With the publication of “Barracoon,” there has been renewed conversation among scholars about Hurston’s extensive literary and anthropological contributions.

PLACE IN CONTEXT Cudjo was born in Africa and lived a good portion of his life in Alabama.

THIS WEEK IN BLACK HISTORY Oct. 10, 1917: Pianist/ composer Thelonious Monk was born in Rocky Mount, N.C. Oct. 14, 1964: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Oct. 16, 1859: John Brown leads an insurrection at Harpers Ferry.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

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October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 23

24 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Education Fruitful and multiplying: Non-profit organization, Seeds of Fortune, continues breaking financial barriers for disadvantaged women in education

By YAMINAH SMITH Special to the AmNews

of the non-profit organization Seeds of Fortune Inc., her seeds bloom from the rich soil of financial and educational empowerment.

As religious ethics fight to stay alive many faithAt Seeds of Fortune Inc., maintaining a national ful followers continue planting their sacred seeds scholars and ed-tech platform for young, marginthroughout humanity. While the seeds may hold alized women takes priority. This platform allows the same neighborly values, the soil that nour- them to gain financial and educational resourcishes them often differs from person to person. es. From working with young women as they For Nitiya Walker, founder and executive director navigate the college admissions and scholarship

processes to training them on financial literacy, the organization fights to address the economic hardships of non-white students. This fight entails helping young women from disadvantaged communities find affordable post-secondary options, most often college, and teaching them career and financial management skills.

“With Seeds, I wanted to help the girls get college scholarships, but I also wanted to use it as a fundamental way to teach them about financial management,” Walker said. “Since slavery, education has been a way for us to have social-economic mobility. But now that student loan debt is so high: education has reverse effects. It is the American dream to go to college, graduate, and get a job, but that’s not necessarily the smooth sailing system that’s happening for minority students. By the time you get out, you almost have a mortgage load of debt that you have to pay back. Which then delays their ability to start investing money, purchasing homes and starting businesses like they would want to, to create their own economic wealth.”

Walker started her non-profit organization in 2014 as a senior at Babson College. As a Black undergraduate student, the New York native faced her own financial struggles while on the path to obtaining a college degree. “Trying to afford college at the time when I was trying to go was difficult. There was no way that my parents could afford for me to go to college with the price tags that were around then,” Walker said. Fortunately for Walker, she received the help of a Girl Scout leader at her church in Brooklyn, NY. “She worked with me for five to six weeks in the Brooklyn Public Library, teaching me techniques on how to position myself for college applications and scholarships,” Walker said. With the trooper’s help, Walker obtained enough money in scholarships to afford college.

Although her financial success empowered her, disappointment quickly followed behind. “When I got to undergrad, I realized that everyone did not have this information on how to secure scholarships for colleges,” Walker said. “I found that a lot of time, for us, as students of color on campus, there was not a lot of financial information distributed to us. This information was just not communicated.”

This realization led Walker down the path of her current mission to break financial barriers for nonwhite women in education.

What started in the Brooklyn Public library with just three girls now encompasses 1,000 members, over $15 million in scholarships and grants and a 100% graduate rate for those that stay in the Seed’s programs.

Yet, the work of the Seeds doesn’t end at financial issues. The non-profit also aids their members in establishing a fruitful bond amongst each other. “I like Seeds because I get to meet new people, which is amazing,” Seeds member Jasmin Turkson said on a live stream with Walker. “We’d be in the Bootcamp and, we’d just be talking about our high school experiences and it was just genuine. Genuine friendships. Genuine sisterhood.”

Jasmin, who learned about the Seeds of Fortune organization from a friend’s social media page, now holds the title of a proud member. “I was looking for a program that would help me get money for college. So, when I saw the post, I was like, this looks interesting. I have to get on it. I have to apply,” Jasmin said. Fortunately for her, she found See EDUCATION on page 32

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Trafficking Continued from page 3

ring involving young girls when he was arrested and charged in December 2020, said the AG’s office.

The investigative team determined that Alexander trafficked girls aged 12 to 16 across county lines for sex. Between 2018 and 2020, Alexander would “lure” female teenage victims to his apartment in Bronx County, often using marijuana and food to entice them. Once there, Alexander would attempt to perform sexual acts with them, expose himself to them, and show the victims nude photographs, said the AG’s office.

“The sexual exploitation of children is disgraceful, sickening, and blatantly illegal,” said James in a statement.

“Adults have the responsibility to protect children, yet Alexander’s alleged actions exposed minors to untold pain and suffering. My office will continue to use every tool in our arsenal to root out sex traffickers and child abusers, and bring justice to their victims.”

Ossorio said that opposing bills Gottfried supports would lead to an increase in the demand in the sex trade. She said NOWNY is sounding the alarm on the “dangerous” bills in the legislature that will decriminalize everything.

“As it is to meet the current demand, traffickers, pimps, import women from other countries. They find vulnerable women so that men can have women

they buy for sex, and they target our kids to meet demand,” said Ossorio. “They go to the poorest neighborhoods across our city to get them.”

Gottfried’s office argued that partial criminalization is fundamentally wrong in assuming that demand for “sexual services is what drives people into sex work” and that all sex work is “inherently exploitive.”

Gottfried’s office said the bills maintain punishments against trafficking, coercion, sexual abuse, sex work involving minors, and rape without stopping sex work between consenting adults.

Sex workers won’t be treated or isolated as criminals vulnerable to abuse, as it is under current New York law, said Gottfried’s office.

Gottfried’s office said that charges under the “broadly defined crime of ‘promoting’ sex work” isn’t always helpful to investigative teams looking to end sex trafficking rings, like in Pinckney’s or Alexander’s cases.

It usually means that a friend or loved one providing shelter, transportation, and even condoms to a sex worker is made a criminal just for trying to offer some measure of safety, said Gottfried’s office.

Ariama C. Long is a Report for America Corps member and writes about culture and politics in NewYork City for the AmsterdamNews.Your donation to match our RFA grant helps keep her writing stories like this one; please consider making a tax-deductible gift of any amount today by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/fcszwj8w

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 25

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26 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Health Hospital workers sound alarm on rising violence

By BRAM SABLE-SMITH and ANDY MILLER Kaiser Health News

(Shelby Knowles for KHN photo)

The San Leandro Hospital emergency department, where nurse Mawata Kamara works, went into lockdown recently when a visitor, agitated about being barred from seeing a patient due to COVID-19 restrictions, threatened to bring a gun to the California facility.

It wasn’t the first time the department faced a gun threat during the pandemic. Earlier in the year, a psychiatric patient well known at the department became increasingly violent, spewing racial slurs, spitting toward staffers and lobbing punches before eventually threatening to shoot Kamara in the face.

“Violence has always been a problem,” Kamara said. “This pandemic really just added a magnifying glass.”

In the earliest days of the pandemic, nightly celebrations lauded the bravery of front-line health care workers. Eighteen months later, those same workers say they are experiencing an alarming rise in violence in their workplaces.

A nurse testified before a Georgia Senate study committee in September that she was attacked by a patient so severely last spring she landed in the ER of her own hospital.

At Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri, security was called to the COVID unit, said nurse Jenn Caldwell, when a visitor aggressively yelled at the nursing staff about the condition of his wife, who was a patient.

In Missouri, a tripling of physical assaults against nurses prompted Cox Medical Center Branson to issue panic buttons that can be worn on employees’ identification badges.

Hospital executives were already attuned to workplace violence before the pandemic struck. But stresses from COVID have exacerbated the problem, they say, prompting increased security, de-escalation training and pleas for civility. And while many hospitals work to address the issue on their own, nurses and other workers are pushing federal legislation to create enforceable standards nationwide.

Paul Sarnese, an executive at Virtua Health in New Jersey and president of the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety, said many studies show health care workers are much more likely to be victims of aggravated assault than workers in any other industry.

Federal data shows health care workers faced 73% of all nonfatal injuries from workplace violence in the U.S. in 2018. It’s too early to have comprehensive stats from the pandemic.

Even so, Michelle Wallace, chief

“I don’t want to be a hero,” says Mawata Kamara, a nurse at San Leandro Hospital in San Leandro, California. “I want to be a mom and a nurse. I want to be considered a person who chose a career that they love, and they deserve to go to work and do it in peace. And not feel like they’re going to get harmed.”

nursing officer at Grady Health System in Georgia, said the violence is likely even higher because many victims of patient assaults don’t report them.

“We say, ‘This is part of our job,’” said Wallace, who advocates for more reporting.

Caldwell said she had been a nurse for less than three months the first time she was assaulted at work—a patient spit at her. In the four years since, she estimated, she hasn’t gone more than three months without being verbally or physically assaulted.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s expected, but it is accepted,” Caldwell said. “We have a lot of people with mental health issues that come through our doors.”

Jackie Gatz, vice president of safety and preparedness for the Missouri Hospital Association, said a lack of behavioral health resources can spur violence as patients seek treatment for mental health issues and substance use disorders in ERs. Life can also spill inside to the hospital, with violent episodes that began outside continuing inside or the presence of law enforcement officers escalating tensions.

A February 2021 report from National Nurses United, a union in which both Kamara and Caldwell are representatives, offers another possible factor: staffing levels that don’t allow workers sufficient time to recognize and de-escalate possibly volatile situations.

COVID unit nurses also have shouldered extra responsibilities during the pandemic. Duties such as feeding patients, drawing blood and cleaning rooms would typically be conducted by other hospital staffers, but nurses have pitched in on those jobs to minimize the number of workers visiting the negative-pressure rooms where COVID patients are treated. While the

workload has increased, the number of patients each nurse oversees is unchanged, leaving little time to hear the concerns of visitors scared for the well-being of their loved ones—like the man who aggressively yelled at the nurses in Caldwell’s unit.

In September, 31% of hospital nurses surveyed by that union said they had faced workplace violence, up from 22% in March.

Dr. Bryce Gartland, hospital group president of Atlanta-based Emory Healthcare, said violence has escalated as the pandemic has worn on, particularly during the latest wave of infections, hospitalization and deaths.

“Frontline health care workers and first responders have been on the battlefield for 18 months,” Garland said.

“They’re exhausted.”

Like the increase in violence on airplanes, at sports arenas and school board meetings, the rising tensions inside hospitals could be a reflection of the mounting tensions outside them.

William Mahoney, president of Cox Medical Center Branson, said national political anger is acted out locally, especially when staffers ask people who come into the hospital to put on a mask.

Caldwell, the nurse in Kansas City, said the physical nature of COVID infections can contribute to an increase in violence. Patients in the unit often have dangerously low oxygen levels.

“People have different political views—they’re either CNN or Fox News—and they start yelling at you, screaming at you,” Mahoney said.

“When that happens, they become confused and also extremely combative,” Caldwell said.

Sarnese said the pandemic has given hospitals an opportunity to revisit their safety protocols. Limiting entry

points to enable COVID screening, for example, allows hospitals to funnel visitors past security cameras.

Research Medical Center recently hired additional security officers and provided de-escalation training to supplement its video surveillance, spokesperson Christine Hamele said.

In Branson, Mahoney’s hospital has bolstered its security staff, mounted cameras around the facility, brought in dogs (“people don’t really want to swing at you when there’s a German shepherd sitting there”) and conducted de-escalation training—in addition to the panic buttons.

Some of those efforts pre-date the pandemic but the COVID crisis has added urgency in an industry already struggling to recruit employees and maintain adequate staffing levels.

“The No. 1 question we started getting asked is, ‘Are you going to keep me safe?’” Mahoney said.

While several states, including California, have rules to address violence in hospitals, National Nurses United is calling for the U.S. Senate to pass the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act that would require hospitals to adopt plans to prevent violence.

“With any standard, at the end of the day you need that to be enforced,” said the union’s industrial hygienist, Rocelyn de Leon-Minch.

Nurses in states with laws on the books still face violence, but they have an enforceable standard they can point to when asking for that violence to be addressed. De Leon-Minch said the federal bill, which passed the House in April, aims to extend that protection to health care workers nationwide.

Destiny, the nurse who testified in Georgia using only her first name, is pressing charges against the patient who attacked her. The state Senate committee is now eyeing legislation for next year.

Kamara said the recent violence helped lead her hospital to provide deescalation training, although she was dissatisfied with it. San Leandro Hospital spokesperson Victoria Balladares said the hospital had not experienced an increase in workplace violence during the pandemic.

For healthcare workers such as Kamara, all this antagonism toward them is a far cry from the early days of the pandemic when hospital workers were widely hailed as heroes.

“I don’t want to be a hero,” Kamara said. “I want to be a mom and a nurse.

I want to be considered a person who chose a career that they love, and they deserve to go to work and do it in peace. And not feel like they’re going to get harmed.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Race

Continued from page 3

that could think out of the box [and] think in terms of the small business owner, that’s what could lift the community is the availability of small businesses.”

With a strong history in activism, Cleare has been involved in politics for several years including serving for nearly 20 years as chief of staff for former State Senator Bill Perkins. A Harlem native, she was also NewYork City district leader for District 70.

This year she ran for City Council to represent District 9 placing fourth.

Cleare told the AmNews the top three issues she’s concentrating on are housing, education and small businesses.

“This is a beloved and special district that contains my home community,” she said. “We have to get on the road to economic recovery. In parts of the district there was already an imbalance and now it’s been exacerbated by the pandemic.

Someone has to go in there and fight but we can only do this together. I want us to be able to bring some equity and level the playing field in the areas of housing and education and small business.”

Shana Harmongoff is running as an Independent. The Harlem native served four and half years as Benjamin’s district office director and director of community affairs. Harmongoff holds a law degree. She entered politics when she met Benjamin while she was serving on the board of directors for Esplanade Gardens apartments and

helped him during his senate run.

During her time in his office, Harmongoff started out as a community liaison and was promoted every year. With a passion for senior citizens, she started the Senior Steering Committee, which consists of executive directors of senior centers and nursing homes. Harmongoff is also passionate about mental health services and awareness.

“Just being in community, serving and giving back made me want to keep doing what I was doing, not necessarily politically, but still staying out there in the community,” she told the AmNews. “I can make a difference, regardless of having a title of state senator or not, but having the title of state senator definitely helps.”

Harmongoff is a Democrat running as an Independent. She decided to run on the line after the Manhattan Democratic Party nominated Cleare.

Oz Sultan is the Republican Party candidate in the race and has run for the seat before. A native of Pittsburgh, Sultan spent over 20 years in the corporate sector in the tech industry working in marketing and directing. He’s also an adjunct faculty member at CUNY focusing on marketing technology and blockchain.

Politically, Sultan was district leader for the 70th Assembly. Issues he’s passionate about include creating jobs in Harlem in the tech, environmental and cannabis industries, creating more affordable housing, fixing NYCHA and protecting safe gun ownership rights.

The AmNews was unable to interview Sultan about his campaign at press time.

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28 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Religion & Spirituality Harlem Mothers S.A.V.E. Alexander hosts anti-violence forum Lewis Jones

By AUTODIDACT 17 Special to the AmNews

(Bill Moore photo)

On Sept. 25, Saturday afternoon Harlem Mothers S.AV.E. (Stop Another Violent End) hosted its 6th annual anti-violence forum in front of their office at 306 W.128th St. Sept. 25 was designated “National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims,” by the U.S. Congress in 2007. This event was primarily meant to publicly denounce violence against women, and raise awareness about it, being that it occurred just three doors away from where 31-year-old pregnant mother Shanice Young was brutally murdered two weeks earlier, allegedly by her ex-boyfriend.

Dozens of associates, friends and relatives of victims advocating against domestic violence attended the outdoor event, many displaying photos of loved ones who were casualties. Several activists, city officials and law-enforcement agents also participated.

“Today’s a day that we’re gonna let our loved ones know that they’re not forgotten,” Harlem Mothers S.A.V.E. co-founder Jackie Rowe-Adams opened with. She also mentioned several other similar organizations which were present.

Harlem Mother’s S.A.V.E.’s chairperson, Rev. Ronald Sullivan, said, “This organization was born out of pain, but it’s here to provide opportunities and a lot of healing. We want to move from pain, to healing.”

NYPD’s 32nd precinct Chief Rodney Harrison offered condolences to Shanice’s father, Thurman Young, who was present, before saying: “No one should have to bury their child.”

Representatives from Harlem’s Boyer Lodge No. 1 made a financial donation, prior to Mrs. Rowe-Adams acknowledging that “If anyone can help us keep illegal guns out of our children’s hands, the lodge can do it.”

W.A.R.M raised awareness of Domestic Violence Month with a block party for women, children, and the community. Stephanie McGraw, founder of W.A.R.M, community group sponsor, held the event at 155th & Bradhurst Ave Harlem. There was music, video games, dance, and food for all.

Rev. Sullivan then noted: “One of the true epidemics in our community is the abuse of our women.”

Then W.A.R.M. (We All Really Matter) founder, Stephanie McGraw spoke: “We have to denounce this type of violence. We are survivors of domestic violence, so we have a unique approach to it. We have to talk about it. There’s a lot of work to do.”

She noted that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and acknowledged their 12th annual event taken place in Harlem Oct. 9th at Bradhurst & 153-155th Sts, and another one in East Harlem Oct. 23rd.

“I am a survivor of domestic violence, and if you do not get out now, it’s gonna come back,” she recalled once advising a client. “Don’t let her end be your end, cuz it could’ve been me. That woman, we took her to the shelter. Use your life as a lesson to help someone else.”

Vanessa Jones, ambassador from Astoria, Queens, said, “We make sure to take care of the misunderstandings and miscommunication between the police and the communities we serve.”

Several parents of murdered victims read off approximately 300 names, including those of their own children. Some were victims of domestic violence, police terrorism or street violence.

That following Sunday morning, the 21st annual Gladys Ricart & Victims of Domestic Violence Memorial Walk/Brides’ March left from the Holyrood Episcopal Church, 715 W.179th St., into the Bronx, then concluded at 106th St. and Lexington Ave. in East Harlem.

On Oct. 2, a ‘Unity in the Community’ walk from Washington Heights into Harlem occurred.

For more information call 212234-0112, https://harlemmotherssave.org/

passes

Alexander Lewis Jones, affectionately known to family and friends as “Alex,” “DA” and “Al,” was born on January 4, 1983. October 7, 2021 he was involved in a single car crash on the FDR drive. He was 38 years old.

Alexander graduated from Rice High School. He attended several colleges including Howard University. He was never short on words and showed no hesitation in sharing his opinion, as he considered himself a subject matter expert on many things.

To know Alexander was to love him.

He was quite sensitive, even from a very young age. He loved to travel. Alex had a love affair with NIKE. When being interviewed by a writer from “Highsnobiety,” a fashion magazine in which he was featured, the writer said: “It seems only fitting that all morning, we heard friends and passersby referring to Alexander as the ‘Flyest USPS Man in New York.’

Fashion has always been a big part of Alexander’s life, he recalls. Growing up in Harlem, he learned about the legendary creatives from Harlem who inspired a lot of what we see in modern music, art, and fashion. In that regard, Alexander says, he feels proud to represent Harlem as a fashion figure and hopes to bring some attention back to the creative community that is still thriving there today.”

The writer asked, “What originally drew you into fashion?” Alex replied, “I remember looking at old photo albums a few years back. At that point I understood that my parents always made sure that I was dapper. So, respectfully, fashion has always been a big part of who I am.”

Alexander was the proud father of Gabriella Jones, whom he deeply loved and cherished. Being in the middle of family and friends was always something he enjoyed.

Alexander leaves behind his daughter, loving parents Billy E. Jones and Lewis E. Duckett; birth mother: Robin Wheeler Harvey and many other family and friends.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS her sisters; a Jewish rabbi in whose organiI choked up a bit with gratitude for their zation’s office the original Voting Rights Act leadership, and with gratitude for all the was drafted; Black Baptist and AME clergy members of the movement, including Continued from page 12 taking their place in the Black church’s long members of my own family, who risked legacy of working for justice. We were joined their lives over the years to secure the right ideals as well as to the promises in our by representatives of secular social justice to vote for all Americans. founding documents. It brought the public and voting rights organizations.

Before I was arrested and spent the night pressure that compelled LBJ to use the The Rev. Timothy McDonald, who pas- in jail, I delivered a message to President powers of his office to pass civil rights and tored in Martin Luther King Jr.’s church and Biden: When the president of the League of voting rights legislation. who serves as the co-chair of People For the Women Voters is willing to risk arrest, when I was proud to stand outside the White American Way, the organization I lead, led pastors in Dr. King’s lineage are willing to House with so many religious leaders: a us in singing and prayer and brought pow- risk arrest, when Catholic nuns are willing to Catholic nun representing thousands of erful words of truth. risk arrest to call you to fulfill your promise

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 29 to make voting rights a top priority, it is time to examine your moral conscience.

Haiti

out the anti-Blackness, government hypocrisy, and human rights violations against the Haitian people in the United States and worldwide. We are urging governments to uphold international laws and norms that govern the asylum process.

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Ben

Continued from page 12

rights. These migrants many times have been denied the possibility of accessing food or hygiene items, and when they sell any to them, they do so at ridiculous prices, almost 10 times above their commercial value. “Even street vendors raise our prices, they don’t want to rent us to sleep because we are Haitians, not even with our babies.” The non-possibility of a place to stay to rest from the long days of travel, during which many have died on the way, such as the young pregnant Haitian who died on a bus while traveling from the city of Pasto to the city from Cali on Aug. 14, 2021.

The refusal of the Colombian government has gone beyond the rules and has not allowed, nor guaranteed a dignified treatment in which women, men, youth, girls, and boys of Haitian origin are treated as human beings and not as animals.

Despite the situation generated by COVID-19, we can say that there is no political will on the part of governments to provide decent living conditions, far from any act that promotes racism and xenophobia.

If at present a minimum of transit conditions have been provided for the Haitian migrant population, it is due to the economic factor, since the confluence has been massive, according to reports from the terminal, they have managed to have almost 800 migrants within their facilities per day with initial transit to the city of Cali, however, currently they have enabled a direct route to the city of Medellín and then move to Necoclí, then go in a fleet or canoe to Capurganá, and then enter the Darién Gap. Also called the jungle of death, where more than 500 kilometers of dense jungle full of poisonous and dangerous animals, rivers and streams, etc. await them. They will walk through, with suitcases, with their children, pregnant women, sick women and men, to all of the above are added rapes of women, robberies and murders, but their desire to have better living conditions for themselves and their families coupled with a state of mind that is only fueled by hope can more than hold back that degree of desolation that is felt when one of their loved ones stays or is forced to stay on the road.

The authorities are aware of many of the negative events experienced by migrants during their journeys, but there is no real will, nor a policy aimed at protecting the integrity of migrants. There is no racial justice policy, neither in Colombia, nor in the Americas nor in the Caribbean region. There is also no gender policy, where women and girls have all their rights protected nor guarAuthor anteed. So, it follows that there is Deborah no real policy to protect our broth-

ers and sisters in a country as important to Black people as the Republic of Haiti.

Haitians, apparently, are not people who boost the internal economies of the countries to which they are directed, nor are they part of the general interest of the world. But they are to me, and to groups like AfroResistance other Black Executiveand Security & led Executive Exotic Limo Limo Service groups.

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December 26, 2019 JanuaryDATES 1, 2020 • 29 PUB #: ZONE TP - RUN Acct 364 EDT January 7, 2021 - January 13, 2021 • 27 AN A 97 S 01/07,14,21, 2340 −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− ANGELA POLITE 2G 231 W. 149TH STREET Under this rates ar NEW YORK NY agreement 10003 event of a cancellation befor rate charged will be based up Salesperson: Not Applicable −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− Contact: Acct #: 370 _____________________________ Phone: (917)442−3053 Name (print or type) Fax#: MORRISON & TENEBAUM Email: 87 WALKER STREET Agency: NEW YORK NY 10013 .101 −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− 100 PUBLICNOTICES NOTICE 100 101 LEGAL 101 PUBLIC LEGALNOTICES NOTICE 101 LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE 101 LEGALNOTICES NOTICE NOTICES 101 NOTICES 101 LEGAL NOTICES 101 LEGAL NOTICES 101 LEGAL 100 PUBLIC NOTICES 101 LEGAL NOTICES 101 LEGAL LEGAL NOTICES 101 LEGAL NOTICES 101 LEGAL 101RUN LEGAL NOTICES 100PUBLIC PUBLIC NOTICE 100 100 PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE 101 LEGAL NOTICE PUB 101 LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE ZONENOTICES EDT TP DATES Barreitude, LLC filed Arts. of Notice of Formation of SCINotice of Qualification of Notice of Qual of BLITSTEIN CThis a p i tis aof l toPQualification rannounce e p a r a t o r ythat Hof a the rBCI l e YORK m SUMMONS NOTICE of Notice of Formation of CLIF- AN NEW CITY NOTICE OF Sect'y FORMATION ofof of HFP of Formation formation of ATM Notice Notice of AND Qualification Notice of Qualification of S Notice of of AFormation 97 12/10,17,24,3 Notice Formation 888 Qualification of Arts.

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INVITATION NY (SSNY) on FOR of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/12/2020. Office loc: NY OF of State of cy. BIDS

38 January 14, 11,2,2021 2018 17,2021 2018 26 2021--October -January September 8, 2021 30 • September October 20,

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS THE NEWS THENEW NEW YORK YORK AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM NEWS

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Rates and regulations subject to change without notice.

No agreements as to position or regulations, other than those printed on this.

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CLASSIFICATIONS All advertisement accepted for publication is classified according to the standard c l a s s i f i c a t i o n s .

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Pursuant to resolution adopted by with the Town The Town of OFof NEW YORK meeting Tuesday, January nization were filed the 07/28/21. location: on NY (SSNY) 2/22/21 NY ofSecy.Board, of State of NY (SSNY) 08/04/21.

Office TY Secy.

State of NY (SSNY) State of filed NYOffice (SSNY) on State of on NY (SSNY) on Promiseon Academy I Charter (SSNY) on 09/10/21.

Office with Secy. of of York County.

SSNY desigignated as agent of with the LLC Office location: NY Office location: LLC formed in DE on Authority 11/09/20.

12/10/20.

County.

Babylon, Commissioner of Borough: General Services, Division of Purchasing, No. 153624/2019 Manhattan Block: 1729 Lot: 16th at 6:30pm.

The meeting willtheIndex Hand delivered sealed bidsLLC for Project described below will beNY (SSNY) State New Secretary 12/21/20. location: NY County.

SSNY NY fice location NY County. on 08/05/21.

Office location: NY County.

07/02/21.

Office location: on School Board of Trustees will location: County. of Office NY (SSNY) on 1 State 2 /0 5whom /1 7NY . of O ffic e loagainst cofaSSNY tio n it: nated as agent of designatthe LLC process upon County.

SSNY designated as County.

LLC formed in 11/02/2020.

SSNY is desigwill receive sealed proposals for: SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF BRONX NYCTL 2018-A TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK 160 received by representatives of the Contracts Section, Office of the Agency be held at 1 East 104th Street County.

LLC formed in NY (SSNY) on 10/27/2020.

YorkCounty. ed aswhom agent oflocation: LLCagainst upon SSNY has been designated formed in Delaware (DE) on NY County. LLC formed in location: NY County. Princ. 08/23/21. be held on Tuesday, October designated as agent of LLC Office NY Princ. office of upon process be served and shall mail may ofContracting LLC upon whom pro- Floor(DE) on 11/04/77.

12/01/20. asAND agent uponHudson whom whom agent Delaware nated of Chief Officer, Ground Bid Window 55 COLLATERAL Water Street, AS AGENT CUSTODIAN, MELLON, 4th Floor New York, NY 10029.

Delaware (DE) on 11/10/20.

Office Location: New York process against it may as agent upon whom process office LLC: 30 08/04/21.

SSNY designated (KY) on Kentucky 19th, 2021 at 7:30 am.

ThebeAM Princ. upon itCounty.

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Wells Bank, Plaintiff served.

SSNY shall mail be against it may be served and Yards, 72nd Fl., NY, NY as agent of LLC whom designated as agent of SSNY meeting will take place at 245 may be served.

SSNY shall Delaware (DE) on 02/14/18. o u rST, s e , PHB, 1 A ANY, , B rNY o n x10022. , NY shall mail copy of process to c53 bids willSSNY be publicly opened and read inYORK; Bid Room, same address REQUEST FOR FOR ARCHITECTURAL, shall mail proSt., NY, NY PROPOSALS 10019. DEPARTMENT served.

SSNY shall mail served.

55th be NEW YORK STATE OF TAXATION gent Ventures LLC, 551 5th as agent upon whom ignated to c/o Cohen & Coprocess shall mail a copy of any pro10001.

SSNY designated as process against it may be LLC upon whom process West 129th St, NY, NY. mail process to Brian J. designated as agent of SSNY 10468.

SSNY designated as t h e L L C , 5 W e e h a w k e n Purpose: any lawful act.

I, ISAIAH MESSADOService TIMOENGINEERING BID PHASE SERVICES, cess toSSNY Corporation designated as agent of CITY to: CONSTRUCTION The whom LLC, 777 SSNY process On: JanuaryAND 14, 2020 FINANCE; NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OFproFI- LLC Ave., LLP, NY, 10176.

SSNY against it may be process 767 Third Ave., agent hen, cess against theupon LLC served agent of LLC upon served. shallwhose mail proit mayDESIGN, be served. against Beller, Esq., c/o Tarter upon whom of LLC w Krinhom Street, UnitNY 3B, Newprocess York, AGAINST th THY JOHNSON adADMINISTRATION ANDto INSPECTION SERVICES Co., 80 State St., Albany, NYth, 175 LLC whom process ThirdNATURAL Ave Ste 2503, NY, NY REHABILITATION OF EAST 169 andupon 180 BRIDGES A.th STREET R., AN process INFANT, BY HER MOTHER NANCE; designated as of PurLLC process The PostLLC: adserved.

31st Fl., it NY,may NYagent 10017. upon is C/O the Tyece cess against it FOR may be against cess tois c/o Michael GoldSSNY shall mail sky & Drogin LLP, 1350 be served. against itOffice may be NY 10014.

This is to announce that the d re s s 4 1 9 W e s t 1 2 9 th th of BCP OVER METRO-NORTH RAILROAD SHORELINE STABILIZATION ROAD SSNY ELEVATION OF 12207.Sills against 10017.

Purpose: Any lawful AND it may be served.

Address required to pose: Notice of Qualification LEGAL GUARDIAN, JACQUELINE RIVERA; DANIEL upon whom process against it dress to which the SSNY Any lawful activity.

Smith, 143 W 140 Street, the served. shall mail prosmith, Cummis & Gross KY addr. of LLC: 1387 E. Broadway, NY, NY 10018.

SSNY shall mail process to: erved. S S N Y s h a ll m a il P uHo-Shing;Audrey r p o s e : A n y Ho-Shing l a w f u l sSPECIAL next open meeting of 10027 the Lawson Ho-Shing a/k/a209 Lawson Contract Nos. HBX1670, HBX1215 and HBX180 Street, Manhattan NY activity.

SSNYCircle be shall mail to cess maintained in DE: Or- H. ROAD MALDONADO; may be served.

SSNY shall process mailto aOPPORTUNITIES copy ofactivity. any Purproshall York, New NY 10030. to Corporation Service P.C., 101 Park Ave.,N.Y.C 28thP.I.N. Fl., 84118BXBR272 New Rd., process Ste.CAPTREE 135, Purpose: Any lawful Avenue of the Americ1120 Philip J. Michaepurpose.

Harlem Children's Zone a/k/a Audrey Scarlett-Ho-Shing; al., process Defendant(s) proclaim my Free National Service Co. St. Wilmington de et c/o Corporation ange80 FUND II lawful GP LP Appl. for NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; mail to theofAddress LLC at ls cess against the pose: Any activity.

Co., State St., Albany, NY NY, NY 10178.

DE addr. of KY 40505.

Cert. of Lexington, Notice of formation Viento as, NY, NY 10036. , c /o N o rto nSecy.

RLLC o s eofserved F u llPromise Academy II Charter Na m ebid asubmitted s I S Amust I A of Hbe11E78 T R I - NEW until am on for THURSDAY, 1, 2018 at the Town (CSC), 19801. Cert 80 State St., Albany, of Purpose: Formation filed Media Notice of Formation Auth. filed with State Each accompanied by a 10:00 certified check 2% of the of FEBRUARY YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU and the princ. office of the LLC. upon him/her is 36 West 47th 12207-2543.

Any Form.

LLC: Corporation Service filed with Secy.

Arts. of Org. to be LLC maintained in filed DE: bright US LLP, 1301 Ave. of School Board of Trustees will FORCE JOHNSON accordHall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, 11757 at Notice of Qualification of Auamount of the proposal, or alternatively, a bid bond not less than 10% of the NY with 12207-2543.

DE addr. of DE Div. of Corps, 401 REALTY LLC Cert. of ConPursuant to athe Judgment ofthe Foreclosure dated NY (SSNY) on York, 11/06/19. of "JOHN DOEBox #1" 1150, through "JOHN lawful DOE #100," names of DE addr. ofF o LLC: Street, W03, activity.

State, P.O. Co., 251 Little Falls Dr., FrankN o t ithe c eand o fSale rduly m a Cogency t (SSNY) iLewes, o n o f tdio 16192 Coastal Hwy., with Secy. of NY h eAvenue Am rformation i c New a sNY , N of Y , LLC. NNY Y be held on Tuesday, October offiled the proposal, payable toof the Comptroller ofCSC, the City251 of New York. ingamount to the rules and usage which time they will be publicly opened and read inSuite Division of Notice ofeThe One Productions, c/o Little Falls St.,names 4,said Dover, LLC: Federal version with Secy.

May 11,true 2017 I, the theof undersigned Referee willArts sell at public location: County.

Office 100 defendants being fictitious, the delast Global Inc., 850 New Burton principal busi10036.

Wilmington, DE 19808.

Cert.

KY 40602-1150.

Purfort, DE 19958. of Org. filed PikMyBrain, LLC Arts. of on 03/26/2021 NY office loca10019.

Purpose: Any lawful 2021 atDIVISION 7:30 am.

The of19th, such TRIFORCE office. and Only Management Group Authority filed Secy. of Dr., DE it19901.

Wilmington, DE 19808.

Purpose: Any ofISAIAH NY (SSNY) on fendants State auction atQualification theintended Bronx County Courthouse, 851 Grand ConLP formed in Cayman Islands THE NYCDOT OFSecy.

BRIDGES ISPurchasing SEEKING QUALIFIED BIDDERS/ being unknown to plaintiffs, being to HVS desRd., NY Ste. 201, Dover, DE activity.

Notice of of ness address ofwith the LLC is 36 pose: of Form. filed with DE Electrical contracting with the Secy. of State, 401 Org. filed with Secy. of State County.

SSNY has tion meeting will take place at 245 JOHNSON. LLC of Org. filed with State of 02/06/19.

NY (SSNY) on Cert. of Lawful Form. filed tenants with THIS Secy.

Purpose.

12/01/20, 11 ignate course, Room Bronx, New York on January 27, 2020 at CONTRACTORS FOR THEJohn ABOVE REFERENCED CONTRACT. on Princ.New of(C.I.) fee owners, or occupants ofAppl. the 600, liened premis19904.

Cert.

Form. filed XLII LLC for Auth. filed 47th Street, W03, WestArts. of State, Div. converting of sub-contracting work, and St, Steofon 4, Dover, DE 05/25/21.

Federal of NY (SSNY) 12/27/17. designated as an agent been West78TH 129th St,Corps., NY,SUBJECT NY. (1) original and (10) having copies of both technical and cost the Secy. of NY (SSNY) on PROCUREMENT IS PARTICIPATION FOR location: NY ofOne State, Div. of GOALS Corps., John STREET CO. to TOes EAST 2:00PM, premises Needham Avenue, Bronx, fice of LP: 650 Madison Ave., and/or persons or ten parties orSecy. claiming anknown interest in1312 with DE Secy. ofNY State, Div. of be State of as NY York, NYOffice 10036.

Purpose: G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Fedall (MBEs) activities and purposand 19901.

Purpose: any lawful Office location: County. whom process against it County. upon proposals.

The Technical and Costwith Proposals shall in seperate MINORITY OWNED LLC. BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND/OR WOMEN 06/08/2021 NY office location LLC formed in G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Fed11E78 REALTY Office NY 10469.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the NY 10022.

Duration of NY, or lien upon the liened premises, if the aforesaid individual deof Corps., Johnand G. Townsend (SSNY) on 08/17/21.

Office activities. any lawful act or activity. essealed related thereto.and eral St., Dover, 19901. (WBEs) NOTICE OF DE SALE O TIC E O FSSNY FO Rhas M ATIO N may be designated served shall mail N SSNY as agent OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES REQUIRED BY SECTION containers may handor delivered or mailed to the defenabove Notice of formation of NY County. been Delaware (DE) on 05/13/21.

St., Dover, DE 19901. eral AS NY lawful County.

Princ. fendants location: buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being LP3P is Perpetual.

SSNY desigare living, and ifbeany all of said Bldg., 401 Federal St., Dover, of location: NYindividual County.

LLC Purpose: Any activity.

Associates, LLC. Arts copy of any process against a of LLC upon whom process 6-129 (Local Law 1 of 2013) OF THE NEW YORK CITY ADMINISTRATIVE address.

Proposals will not be accepted after 10:00 am on the LLC Arts. of Org. ScratchFoto designated as an of agent upon SSNY designated as LP agent of 101 LEGAL NOTICES Purpose: Any lawful activity. of LLC:Goal c/o Friedman office the Borough and County of Bronx, NY, nated asfiled agent upon beSchedule dead, heirs at law,innext ofinkin, distributees, exdants Notice ofand Formation of LLC: 171 DE City 19901.

Purpose: Any of Delaware (DE) Do on CODE (Target/COURT for M/WBE can be seen in the Btheir of the Bid SUPREME COUNO rgupon wagainst ith Secy. of LLC C/O the against it is mState ay beof served.

Lewis Ac- formed date of Kennedy bid opening.

NOBook EXCEPTIONS WILL BE GRANTED. filed with the Secy ofApproximate State of the whom process it may Notice of1 of Qualification of 3 Azimut LLC whom process Management 770 LexBlock: 4711 Lot: 75. amount judgment whom administrators, trustees, committees, devisees, legalawful activity.

W. 79TH STREET LLC Arts.

04/19/21.

SSNY designated Subject to the APPRENTICESHIP 2).Co., This Contract is alsoecutors, TYNumber OF BRONX, CITIBANK, States United t aserved t e process oitf N Y against (shall Sbe S Nmail Yit) may o na SSNY shall mail Corporation process to S Notice of formation of Cielo cess Fund III GP LLC Auth. not remove any pages; all proposals are to be submitted intact.

For New York (SSNY) on be and TIMES SQUARE LEASEagainst may served. ington Ave., NY, NY 10065. $705,125.24 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold served.

SSNY shall mail be th tees, and the assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in of Org. filed with Secy. of PROGRAM and the ComptrollersAzul LaborDisaster Law 220 prevailing wages 107 ADOPTION as agent of LLC uponto whom Notice of formation ofESTATE EMERN.A., Plaintiff, vs.NYC Agents, Inc. 7014 13 Ave., Av- 11/17/2017.

Office location. the LLC , 1025 Fifth Operations/Lofiled w/ SSNY Off. inTheall information call 7/29/21.

(631) Town reserves the right reject NY Office loca6/24/2020. copy ofshall any process against HOLD LLC Appl.

Auth.

SSNY mail process to: SSNY asfor subject toagainst provisions filed Judgment Index# 380685-13. process to the Partnership at requirements described inof Solicitation Materials. of them, and957-3025. generally persons having claiming ofF NY State itor of may be SON ROSE LLC OF E Ldesignated LSecy.

A as BR OArts.

W Nagent Athe KNY /of A interest enue, Suite County.

SSNY A p t .to3the E S o202, u t (SSNY) h will , Brooklyn, N be Y , acNon Y NY gistics Consultants LLC. NY Cert of Form filedArts w/ theprocess anyCo. and allthrough, proposals. tion: New York County.

SSNY the LLC isAve., C/O theofdesignatLLC: 595 filed with of State of/Org. 610 Fifth Ste. 612, NY, the princ. office the LP. upon whom process LLC Only cash or certified funds payable Referee Notice of formation of Grits Single woman looking to build under, by, or against said defendants named as a 09/30/21.

Office location: NY served.

SSNY shall mail proMINORITY OWNED AND WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES filed with the Secy. of State of E L L A M A E B R O W N , E T NY 11228.

Purpose: Any law- ed agent upon whom pro10028.

Purpose: Any lawful of Org7/1/21. filed with Secy. of cepted SSNY desig.

SSDE has designated as agent Baltic Street, Brooklyn, NY (SSNY) on 07/29/21.

Office NY 10020.

Address to be and addr. of each genName against it may be served. as a deposit in the amount of ten percent of the purEntertainment LLC Arts of adoption. ofofbids anyNY right, titleoforNew interest in orto lienCorporation upon the premises class, Princ. office of LLC: cher Service (M/WBE) will be full opportunity to submit and the(SSNY) City NY (SSNY) onafforded 08/31/2021.

AL., Defendant(s). ful activity. e s sfamily m Purpose: a y by b e DE: s eAny rv850 e dlawful aAny nd activity. on cess State Proposal may be examined and obtained at theTO Town Hall it County. as agt. ofdocuments LLC whom process whom process against upon 11217. location: NYnotifies County.

LLC in New eral partner are available SSNY shall mail process to chase price. 80 Org W. filed with of maintained ethnicity welcome, in theensure complaint herein, Defendants.

THE 79th St., the Apt. Secy 31, NY, York hereby all bidders that described it7/29/20. will affirmatively that any Co. (CSC), Stateand St.,4:30 Al- 171 NY office location: NY Counshall mail of expenses process Office location: NY the Purchasing Department between hours of 9:00 a.m. be NAMED served & shall mail may may beNY served.

SSNY SUMdesigactivity. formed inentered Delaware (DE) on Burton Rd., copy Ste. 201, Dover, the LLC at the addr. of its from SSNY. C.I. addr. of LP: State of NY (SSNY) on NY paid.

Please call (347) 470contract into pursuant to this advertisement will be awarded to the ABOVE DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY NY 10024.

SSNY designated bany, 12207-2543.

DE ty.

SSNY Princ. has designatPersuant to abeen Judgment of g a in s t L LArts C Corporate toof : UOrg. S Cfiled o rp County.

SSNY designated as Notice of formation of 560 a p.m. daily except Sundays andas Holidays, on and after process c/o Universal Regagent upon whom nated DE 19904.

07/27/21. office LLC: lowest office. responsible bidder of without discrimination onto the basis ofSaturdays, race, color, princ.

Purpose: Any c/o Maples SerOffice NY County. orInc., my7014 attorney: (800) 5228 MONED to answer theprocess complaint in the above-entitled forecloupon as Frank D. Lombardi, Esq., addr. of LLC: c/omay CSC, 251 N o agent t i c location: eNECK ooff LLC F oRD rm aLLC t i owhom nArts. o f Agents ed as an agent whom F osex, rc loactivity. s u re a n dupon S a lenational d u ly origin, Ave., upon whom agent TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2018.

Proposal documents also Referee bebe LITTLE istered Inc., process against it Plaintiffs may sexual orientation, age orAgents, place of with the Secy. of 13th State, 401 c/o Rudin Management Co., lawful SSNY has been vices Limited, PO Box 309, 582-3678 action, andand to residence. serve a26 copy of your answer on sure process against itdesignated may be Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, Notice of formation of Ripka T a k a m i c h i B e a u t y R o o m process against it may be filed on June 01, 2017 and #202, BK, NY 11228.

Prinmay be served shall mail of Org. filed with the Secy. of ddirected o w n l oto a the d eE. drequirements aGreenbush, t t h(30) e T of o w n oafter f B athe b yand lservice o nshall ’ s wof e bthis s i proces t esumat Prospective bidder's is alsoCarville Ln, served Federal St., #4, Grand Dover, CayDE Inc., 345 Park Ave.,attention NY, NY as an Arts. agent whom House, Ugland attorney within thirty days SSNY shall mail with pro- cipal DE 19808.

Cert. & ofmail Form. filed served.

Arts LLC Arts. address: of any Org.lawful filed Shapiro, Dicaro Barak, LLC LLC. ofupon Org. filed served and mail a concerning copy anschedule O rder ppointing S ucbusiness 300 ofparticipation process against LLC copy "B"Ashall inQualification the proposal M/WBE the contract.

NY (SSNY) on 07/14/2021 www.townofbabylon.com.

NY 12061.

Add.in maintained against the LLC served upon 19901.

Purpose: 10154.

SSNY designated as cess against be Notice of of mons, man,the C.I., KY1-1104.

Cert. of exclusive of#3k, the NY, day of service or within (30) toe pFaris Naber at with Secy. of thirty State of days DE, cess with Secy. of NY NY, (SSNY) Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff N Y office D t . itomay f SNY t aCounty. tserved e the o n E. of anyof process against the The schedule of proposed M/WBE participation is to be St, submitted by theNY cessor Referee dated No74th St., #10A, NY to 220 E 60th location NY in DE: Universal Registered C/O the LLC: 88 Greenwich is activities. agent LLC upon whom proand shall mail copy of Purany 1711 RETAIL, LLC Appl. for filed withNY Registrar of LP 06/14/2021 after completion of service where401 service is made any other office of a the LLC. Federal St., inDover, DE princ. apparent lowupon bidder within seven (7) calendar days after the date of opening on office loca175 Mile Crossing Boulevard LLC served is C/O LLC: 10/3/17.

Office location: NY 10021. vember 28, 2017, I, the un10022.

R/A: VB&T Certified SSNY has been designated Inc., 300 Creek View Agents, Street, Apt 714, New York, cess against it may be process against the LLC to Auth. filed with Secy. of State st Partnerships C.I., 133 Elgin by personal service within the State.

The United Any lawful activity. ofEast bids. The goal Apt for projectmanner isSPECIAL 24 %. than 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful pose: NOTE: These projects be funded in York part through tion NY County.

SSNY has Rochester, New 14624 38 1 M/WBE Street, 3B, C ounty.

Princ. bus. addr.: dersigned Referee willthis sell 110 SERVICES any lawful act.CayPublic Accountants, PLLC, as anthe agent upon whom pro- Purpose: Rd, Ste. 209, Newark, DE shall NY 10006.

Purpose: Any lawserved.

SSNY shall mail proC/O LLC Angela Polite NY (SSNY) on 11/23/20. of Ave., Box 123, Grand Notice of Formation of 350 States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, th been designated as an agent the W New State Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery (877)430-4792 New NY Pur283 Decatur St., Brooklyn, a t Non-compliance p uYork, l iGoldfarb c a uwith c t10003. i o& n7 day a tsubmittal t h e requirement, 57 St,&Ste NY, activity.

250 the theYork stipulations of1632, Schedule against it St. may2G be served cess 19711.

Name add. of auth. ful activity. cess toblocation: Fleece 231 w.

149th NY, NY Office NY County.

C.I. KY1-9000.

Purman, Notice of of FIRST ACQUISITION answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service VIAGRA & process CIALIS!against 60 CO., pills upon whom it Disaster Recovery and Federal Funds through Com mhereof. unity pose: lawful activity.

N Y shall 1 1 2Purpose: 3mail 3 . Qualification S eaccopy . Documeno f of S ta te "B" orAny submittal of bids in which any of themay prices forinlump sum or unitany items are Bronx County Courthouse, NY 1017.

Purpose: lawful and any officer DE where Cert of LLP, Attn: Partner-in-charge 10003 LLC formed in Delaware (DE)detriment pose: Any lawful activity.

FIRST HOUR COMMERCE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be process Notice of Formation of ETER100 pills for of $150. for $99. significantly unbalanced to the potential of the Department may be cause may be served and shall mail Development Block Grants.

A project funded by and conceived d e s ig n a te d a g e n t o f L L C Notice of Form ation 44 act.

Room 600, 851 Grand Conagainst the LLC for is Secy.

November 18, 2019 #98015 Form filed: DE you Sec.byofdefault State, forDated: of matters, 560 Lexingtary.

11/17/20.

SSNY designatonRudin (REMEDY) LLC Appl. of State of NY (SSNY) against the relief demanded in the taken for a determination ofNY non-responsiveness and the rejection of the bid.

NIS FINE CHEMICALS USA FREE shipping.

Money back a copy of any process against through the NY Rising Community Reconstruction program of upon whom process against EAST 75TH STREET, LLC course, Bronx, on JanuC/O the LLC: 620 W 42nd St Notice of Formation of SIGNotice of Qualification of Div. ofof Plaintiffs Corp, John G. New York County as the place Auth. filed with Secy. of State on 09/14/21. Office location: ton Ave., 6th of Fl.,LLC NY, upon NY complaint. ed as agent designate Notice formation of of Jess Arts. SP ofProposers Org. filed with Formation of BRG WESTguaranteed!

1-855-579-8907 the LLC is C/O thewith LLC: 175 the Governor’s Office StormLLC Recovery. m ust it may be served and shall of Org. filed Secy. arySolicitation 29, 2018 atof2:00 documents (Specifications ONLY) will be available for Apt NewonYork, NY Arts.

5, LLC Arts. of of NATURE 1770 2ND AVE NYC LLC Ap- of Townsend Bldg., POArts.

Box 10022.

DE addr.

LLC: Corprocess against itp.m., may whom NY21A, (SSNY) 09/28/21.

NY County.

SSNY designattrial.

Venue based upon County in which the subject Trayah Interiors LLC Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) SIDE LLC with the West 12thoffiled Street, Apt.Secy.

4B, download starting December 9,Dover, 2019 forany theisfull duration of of the comply with and all funding agency requirements, as of well as mail process to: Any 263 Bowof State NY (SSNY) on p re m Auth. is eService sfree kfiled nofo charge wwith n shall aSecy. s 1 mail 5Lit5of 0 898, 10036.

Purpose: lawful Org. filed with Secy.

State pl. for DE 19903.

Any poration Co., 251 Notice of Qualification of 79 Office Notice of Qualification of 980 be served.

SSNY location: NY County. ed as agent of10011.

LLC upon real property, aCity tax lien upon is being foreclosed, is situDISH TV $59.99 For 190 Org filed with the Secy. ofwhich on 08/02/21.

Office location: the Solicitation Time from the City Record Website at Record Onof State of NY (SSNY) on New York, NY PurNotice is hereby given that a any other State, County, Town or local government or agency ery, 2nd Fl., NY, NY 10002.

1 2 /0 4 /1 7 .

O ffic e lo c a tio n: U nionport R oad, U nit N o. activity. of NY (SSNY) on 11/19/20.

State ofDr., NY (SSNY)Enteron ated. lawful purpose. tle Falls Wilmington, DE PLACE OWNER CLIFTON RAIL PROPERTY LLC Appl. process to c/o Anbau formed in Delaware (DE) LLC whom process against it may Dated: September 17, 2021 + $14.95 High Channels State of regulations.

NY (SSNY) on Line (https://mspwvw-dcscpfvp.nyc.gov/CROLPublicFacingWeb/) NY County.

SSNY designat11/21/19.

Office loc.: NY license, number 1324834 for pose: Any lawful activity. rules and A goal of 15% for New York State Certified Purpose: any lawful activity.

NY County.

SSNY designat6A, Bronx, NY. All that cerlocation: NY County.

Office 09/07/21.

Office location: NY 19808.

Cert. of Form.

LLCas Appl. for foregoing Auth. filedupon with on for Auth. filed with Secy. of prises, 11 E. 26th St., NY,filed NY TO 01/25/21.

SSNY designatbe served.

SSNY shall mail THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The sumSpeed Internet.

Free InstallaNY office loca11/12/2020. ed agent of LLC SSNY of designated as County. liquor license, has been ap- ed Minority Businesses and A15% for Newof York Certified Drawings areofnotState available download and MUST be purchased. as agent LLC upon tain plot, piece or of SSNY designated as agent of Notice County. formed in of formation ofupon 68with Secy. of for the Secy.

StateState of to NY (SSNY) State of NY of 18 (SSNY) on process DELLC addr. of parcel LLC: 251 10010. agent LLC mons is served youCLIFby publication, pursuant the Includtion, Notice of Formation of tion: NY County. has whom process against itOrder may ed agent ofpLLC upon pliedasfor Marilyn Rest Inc. printed copy of thebuildings solicitation and drawing setom can be purchased New York W en O w nedupon Bat:SSNY usinesses has been established for this h o mSmart rto o c HD eCarlos s s DVR awhom gofaSuarez, in sprot it land, with the and LLC upon whom process Delaware 08/12/21.

1509 ESTATE LLC Arts. of w State of (DE) DE, John G. Notice formation RIGHT on 11/06/19.

Office location: Office location: NY 11/04/19.

Little Falls Dr.,ofonTransportation, Wilmington, process against it may whom 181 W.of 10th St., NY, NY Honorable James d'Auguste, a Justice of theshall Supreme of ed, Fee Voice Remote.

Some FORD HOUSE PRESERVAdesignated asE. agent been be served.

SSNY mail City Department Office of the Agency Chief Contracting against it may be cess d/b/a Don Giovanni RisN O TIC E O F FO R M ATIO N project.

Proposers must demonstrate their good-faith efforts to may be served.

SSNY shall iPrinc. m p r o v e m e n t s t h e r e o n may be served. against office of LLC: 777filed S. Court, Org. filed LLC with the Secy.mail of Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal WAY LAUNDRY GROUP LLC formed in be NY County. formed in 10014.

DEOfficer/Contract 19808.

Cert. of Form. served.

SSNY shall Purpose: lawful dated September 7, 2021, andCounty. filedittowith supporting pa1-888-609restrictions TION, L.P. Cert. ofNew LPYork, filed upon whom process against it process Management Unit, 55 Water Street, Ground Floor, c/o Corporation served.

Theapply. address SSNY torante liquor at retail OF A to P. sell LEE PRODUCT achieve these goals. m ail process to Any c/o P eter erected, situate, lying and SSNYOffice shall mail to process Figueroa Fl., Los (SSNY) on 12/03/2019 NY St., Dover, DE 19901.

PurLLC ofprocess Org. filed with Delaware (DE) onprocess 10/23/19.

(DE) on 10/31/19.

Delaware with Secy. of 41st State, Div. of - 3:00 New York St., 10041 between 9:00 a.m. p.m., Monday excludes LLC, 37with E. Low, activity. pers in the New York County on September 9, 9405 Arts.

Secy. ofto Friday, State of mail NY Clerks with may be served and shall Service Co., 80 State St., Alshall mail to Benin aoffice restaurant under the AlLLC Arts.to ofthe Org. filed 44 E. 75th St., NY, NY b e i n g i n t h e B o r o u g h o f Corporation Service Co., 80 Angeles, CA 90017.

SSNY NY location NY County. pose: Any lawful activity.

Secy. of NY425 (SSNY) on Princ.aNY office ofwith LLC: 1120 SSNY designated astNY, agent off the Corps., Federalis located St., Ste. holidays.401 The entrance on the2021.This South Side of any the Building facing thethe 18th St., 7th Fl., NY is an action to foreclose tax lien covering the (SSNY) on 08/05/21.

Office copy of process to a bany, 12207-2543.

PurSinanaj, Madison jamin The Town will not reimburse any individual or firm any costs coholic Beverage Control t h e S e c y . o f S a t e o 10021.

Bronx, County of Bronx, City St., Albany, NY 12207State designated as agent of You LLC Get DIRECTV! ONLY has been designated SSNY ndthe building without Vietnam Veterans Memorial. will not be allowed in 07/13/2021 NY office location of the Americas, Ste. Ave. LLC upon whom process 4, Dover, DE 19901.

PurDE addr. of LLC: 251 Purpose: aspreparation 62 Princ.

West Street, Newactivity.

York, New 10003. property location: NY LLC: 520known 2withCounty.

Ave, Suite 20B,of132nd pose: Any lawful Ave., Ste. 1001, New York, Law at 358 W 44th Street, associated the their proposal.

NY(SSNY) has been desigNotice of Qualification of Notice of Qualification of OCAny lawful activity. a n d S t a t e o f N e w Y o r k , 2543.

Purpose: AnyParcel). lawful Little upon whom process against it license, 155 Channels & $35/month! government issued identification (driver's passport, etc.). 30 asHudson as an Falls agent uponWilmington, whom pro- Bronx County.

SSNY has 1803, NY, NY 10036.

SSNY it may be served. against pose: Any lawful activity.

Dr., York and identified Block 1729, Lot 160 (the Tax of LP: office New York, NY 10016.

PurNY 10017.

Purpose: Any lawnNew a t e against dYork, a s aNY afor g ebe npremises t served u p o n TAGON MONTICELLO STRUCOPPORTUNIBlock and Lot 2867 toactivity. may be3943 served. shall 1000s ofCLO Shows/Movies On cess itn may been designated as an agent as agent of HAN LLC DE designated SSNY shall mail process to 19808-1674.

Cert. of A deposit of $50.00SSNY is required for theThe specification books and aNY, deposit sought is the saleNY of the Tax Parcel atwom public auction Yards, 72nd Fl., pose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation consumption. ful activity.

Therelief Town of Babylon encourages m inority and en of owned w h o m p r o c e s s a g a in s t it TURED PRODUCTS MSPTY FUND IV (US) L.P. Appl. g e th e r w ith a n u n d iv id e d mail process to c/o CorporaDemand (w/SELECT All Inshall mail a copy of any and of $50.00 isFormation required for each drawing in setsatisfaction in the Latest form of aof certified upon whom process against it uponof whom process c/o Co. Notice ofAppl. of THE withService Dept.Post of N the on taxcheck lien.

In case yourKU failure appear, date which 10001.

DYNASTY LLCtoagainst Arts. ofit Form. businesses to participate all bids. otice of filed Form ation of Am ay Corporation befiled served.

The 16, for80interest Auth.

Auth. with Secy. of 0.0133 percent tion Service Co., Statefiled St., Package.)

PLUS cluded process against the LLC G. is for Notice ofmay Formation ofinagainst SIGorLLC money order payable tointhe the New LP York City be Department of is you may beAserved and mail mayinfiled be served.

SSNY shall State: 80 State St., Albany, (CSC),Div. BIG RED UMBRELLA, LLC of Corps., John taken the sum of $14,113.23, may dissolve Org. Secy. ofof State th S QU E DUp D(SSNY) Oshall I FIVE N O Office address to which the with Secy. of State ofPersonal NY judgment Notice of with Formation THE C/O State of NY on theTransportation.

Common Elements.

ApAlbany, NY 12207-2543.

DE Notice isRany here by given, purNo Cash or Checks Accepted.

Stream on toMagainst the LLC: 155 W 68 SP 4, LLC Arts. of NATURE a copy of process mail process to c/o CorporaNY 12207-2543.

DE addr. of Arts. of Org. filed with Secy.

Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal together with interest, costs, disbursements and attorneys 12/31/2119.

SSNY designatThe Town reserves the right to reject any all bids. GOLF, of NYor(SSNY) on 08/18/21.

II, LP (SSNY) on amount 08/02/21.

Office SSNY shall York, mail Little a copy of OPPORTUNITY BOROUGHS LLC 09/21/21.

Office location: NY proximate of judgeaddr. of LLC: 251(Optional) Little Falls suant to law, that the Cert.

NYC Screens Simultaneously at Street, New NY 10023.

Org. filed Secy. ofdirecting State the the LLC is C/O the tion Service Co., 80 State St., St., LLC:Ste. CSC, 251 Falls of of NY (SSNY) AState Pre-Bid meeting hason scheduled forwith December 16, 2019 4, Dover, DEthe 19901. of this action, public sale of NY the Tax Parfees ed as agent of and LP upon Office County. f LAdditional P file d ofw ith S eCall c yLLC: . Rd, oinf location: NY County.

LLCbeen Arts. oflocation: Org. filed with Secy. any against LLC o County.

LP formed m ent is AM $119,173.75 plus Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808.

Department Consumer AfCost.

DINo Purpose: Any lawful activity. ofTheresa NY (SSNY) on 11/19/20. at 10:00 in thelocation: Agency Chief Contracting Officer BidLYTLE Room, Ground Albany, Dr., process 12207-2543.

DE Wilmington, DE 19808.

1604 Williamsbridge Office NY 11/06/20.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Sabatino cel.

PHILLIPS LLP /s/ Anthony J.NY Iacchetta Attorneys process against it may whom 110 SERVICES Princ. office of LLC: 307 W. S t a t e o f N Y ( S S N Y ) o n formed in Delaware (DE) on of State of NY (SSNY) on s e r v e d .

S S N Y s h a ll m a il Delaware (DE) on 09/15/21.

Cert. of 55 Form. filed with Secy. interest and costs.

Premises fairs willNY hold a Public HearRECTV 1-888-534-6918 Office location: NY County.

Floor, Water Street, NYC. All bidders are requested to Trust addr.

LLC: Little Falls Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. Bronx, 10461.

Purpose: County.

SSNY designated as prospective Commissioner of General Services for Plaintiffs NYCTL 2018-A and of The Bank of New York be served.

SSNY shall mail 38th St., NY,251 NY 10018.

07/29/21.

Princ. office LLC: 1 2 /1lawful 5 /1 7 . activity.

Oof ffic e lo cJanuary a tio n: Office location: NY process 11/23/20. to 660 Nereid Ave Princ. office LP: 250 Park of State of subject DE, John G.connection, willattend. beofsold toofInprovion Wednesday, ing Seats are limited. this limit the as number of of Dr., designated agent SSNY please of Formation of 5 Wilmington, DE 19808. of State, Div. of Corps., 401 Any LLC upon whom proagent Notice of Formation of V. caras Collateral Agent and Custodian 28 East Main Mellon, process to Corporation SerSSNY designated as agent of # 1 , B r o n x , N e w Y o r k , NY 600 Third Ave., 21st Fl., NY, County.

Princ.filed office ofSecy.

LLC: Princ. office of 15th at Fl.,2:00 NY, p.m.

NY 10177. attendees to maximum of two personnel perupon firm. Please submit the Townsend Bldg., Federal sions of filed Judgment In08, County.

2020 at 42 LLC whom process LLC Arts.

FRANKLIN of Form. with Cert.

Federal St.NYC - Ste. 4,Arts.

Dover, cess against it401may be Consulting, LLC. of Ave., Date: January 9,State 2018 vice Co., St., Street, Suite 1400, Rochester, 14614 LLC upon whom process thc e n NY SSNY 56 York Leonard St., Apt. 39W, dui P : c / o of A5sLP Aon m ear perica attendees to Manager no80 later than two (2)Al- New 10470.

Duration isd Perpetual.

St., Ste. d ename(s) x10016. # SSNY 34,of 8 Dover, 0 2 4shall 6 / designated 2DE 0mail 119901.

2the . proNProject o Telephone Floor, Broadway, FREE! may be 758-2110 served. against Org. filed with Secy. Any of State of State, John G.be Townsend Purpose: law- L DE 19901. served. bany, NYit12207-2543.

Name aiacchetta@phillipslytle.com No. (585) against it may served. business days prior to the pre-bid meeting date.

Savings Include an American Walk-In Tubs as agent of LLC upon whom NY 10013.

SSNY desigNY, L L C , 6 3 5 M a d i s o n A v e ., Notice of Formation Purpose: Any lawful activity SSNY designated as agent Purpose: Any activity.

Cash to willFredda be lawful Accepted. to SSNY shallofmail process to SSNY 08/12/21. tition for CASA AZUL. INC of Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. to 4, ful activity. cess Herz Brown, onToilet08/13/21.

Standard Right Height and addr. each general shall mailofprocess process against may bewriting nated as agent LLC upon of NY (SSNY) STERNBUCH FAMILY 1300, NY, NYand 10022.

LP uponmaintain, whom process FREE! ($500 Value) WALK-INSte. BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500 All questions shall beitsubmitted in to the designated person indicated establish, operCorporation Service Co., 80 Corporation DE 19901.

Purpose: Dover, 450 E. 83rd St., Apt. 16A, Office location: NY County. are available from partner DeFoe Corp. invites all inDeFoe Corp. invites all inService Co., 80 of Formation of CON- Notice of Formation of itBuild served.

SSNY shall process against may whom PROPERTIES LLC Arts. of Latest on which the LP against it may be sidewalk served. submission of is December 20, 2019.

L abelow. u NY r a Deadline C . OF B r for ow n email , E sproq questions . , Notice unenclosed ate andate NY NOTICE QUALIFICAlawful activity.

NY, 10028.

Any Any SSNY. tState e r e sSt., t Purpose: e INVESTING, dAlbany, and q u a 12207llawful i LLC. f i e d Something State tAny ere sSt., t e dAlbany, aAwesome, n d qNY u a12207l i LLC. f mail i e d SSNY th140 Backed

by American Standard’s years NOLLY cess to the LLCPurpose: at the Advoprinc. be served.

SSNY shall N o t i c edesignated o f F o r m a tas i o nagent o f 2✔4of 6 may Org. filed withmail ofof dissolve is 12/12/2117.

SSNY process to cafe' atshall 369 7Secy.

Ave inState the Referee 2543. Purpose: Any lawful Mr. Hari Velkur, TION OF Construction lawful activity.

LLC upon whom process experience activity.

MWBE firms filed to submit pro- Arts.

2543.

Purpose: Operations of MWBE firms to submit proArts. of Org. with Secy. of Org. filed with Secy. office of the LLC. DE addr. of process to Sarika Singh at c/o Corporation Service Co. SPRING STREET CONDOMINIof NY (SSNY) on 07/12/21.

SSNY designated as agent Borough Brooklyn Director of Engineering and Construction Programs, ACCO, activity.for cacy Professionals, LLC Apit may be served. ✔ Ultra low entry for easyof entering & exiting for a posals following restaurants. posals to of the following of State oftheNY (SSNY)NYS on of NY (SSNY) on against LLC: Corporation theState princ. office of the NYS LLC. (CSC), 80® Technology State St., process Albany, Office location: NY County.

UM (NEW YORK) of LPDrain upon whom Contracts Management two years. term K n u cc/o k lof eof sFormation , KFinance, o m o sfiled iService n s kBIOi && Program mail BORROWER, process✔to: to plication Authority with Patented Quickof shall mail process SSNY Notice of Departm ent ofFORMATION: TransportaDepartm ent of TransportaNOTICE OF Office location: NY 08/23/21.

06/15/21.

Office location: NY Co., 251 Little Falls Dr., A golf simulation Purpose: NY 12207-2543.

Name and Princ. office of LLC: 276 LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. against it m ay be served.

New York City Department of Transportation 122-124 W 124TH ST LLC, M a n fr o , L L P , 5 6 5 T a x te r Barbara Gutman, 4 Bryant ✔28 Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, the Secretary of LLC StateArts. of NY CT Corporation System, PROTECTORS, of New Notice of Qualification of ALNotice of Formation of CLIFtion project: tion Best Value Bid project: Mental Health CounAbbott County.

SSNY designated as County.

SSNY designated as 55 Water Street, 8th Floor, York, New York 10041 Wilmington, DE 19808.

Cert. and golf related retailer. addr. ofshall each general partner Riverside Dr., Ste.process 2-G, NY, o f S t a9th t eSt., o f NY, NNY, Y ( NY SNY S N10005.

Y ) oINCLUDING n SSNY to Arts. of Org. filed with the FORD labor backed bymail American Standard Road, Ste. 590, Elm sford, Fl., 10018.

Park, (SSNY) onwith 09/02/2021.

Office Liberty Org. filed Secy. of212-839-9403, State agent TOUR HOLDINGS, LLC ApHOUSE PRESERVATelephone No. Fax of No. 212-839-4241 seling, PLLC. Articles of Org. LLC upon whom proagent of LLC upon whom proof Form. filed with DE Secy. are available from SSNY. NY 10025.

SSNY designated 1 2 /1 2 / 1 7 .

O ffic e lo c a tio n : N Y the Partnership, 635 MadiSSNY on 08/19/2021.

Office ✔ 44 Hydrotherapy jets for for ancopies invigorating Request ofmassage the DE reN YNY 1 0 (SSNY) 5NEW 2 3 , AYORK t on torn e yCouns hvelkur@dot.nyc.gov f o r C o n t r a c t # D 2 6 3 6 3 4 - TION GP, LLC Arts. of Org. Purpose: Anyfiled lawful activity. location: any lawful activities.

12/03/19. of pl. for Auth. with Secy. of addr.

Email: C o n t against r a c t # Dit2 6may 3 6 3 0beth- County. filed NY w/against Secretary ofmay State of cess it be cess of State, 401 Federal St. Ste. of LP: CSC, 251 Little as agent of LLC upon whom Princ. office of LLC: 246 son A ve., S te.

1300, N Y , County.

SSNY has loc. vocable consent agreement Plaintiff ty.

LLC formed in NY Connecticut Bridge Office location: State of NY (SSNY) on Falls Notice ofRepairs Qualification 80 filed Secy. of at State ofLLC, NY Spring Replacement, I-84 served.

Bridge 3 of LocaYESwith MAMA CREATIVE 9/9/2020.

Office NY (SSNY) SSNY shallas mailagent proSSNY shall mail pro4, Dover, DEoriginally 19901.County.

Pur- served.

Wilmington, DE process against itto: may be St.,ofNY, NY location: 10013. SSNY 10022.

Name and addr. been may beDr., addressed Departon Notice Qualification of NY Billfiled de Blasio, Mayordesignated office of LLC: 1305 FulPrinc.Date Office NY 11/07/19.

STREET REALTY LLC Appl.

(SSNY) on 08/05/21.

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Eastbound & W estbound t i o n s i n L o n g I s l a n d of Org. filed with the Arts. location: New York County. cess to: 212 5th Ave., Apt. cess to: Marc Grayson, 5050 pose: Any lawful activity.

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LLC upon each general partner are whom process against location: ment of Cert.

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SSNYPolly hasTrottenberg, been upon SCOTT REton St., Rahway, NJ 07065.

County. as LLC formed in of for Auth. filed with Phoenix, Secy. of BRADLEY SoulCycle LLC for NY County. o v e rLLC M e tNY r o 10010.

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Office NY SSNY designated as process against upon whom shall mail copy of pro- 10001.

SSNY Brooklyn, Carem ax professional serTrump SoHo Hotel Condominium NY 11213. address toon which the SSNY location: NY County. shall mail process to enue, SSNY the SSNY 07/27/2021.

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Delaware LLC formed in Delaware (DE) of LLC upon whom proAdditional inform ation PurmAve ay agent the LLC may be served.

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Re03/25/11. designaton cess against may be be obtained from David Amshall from mailit process to: SSNY be obtained David Am#1501B, New York, NY BPBB Media, LLC. Arts with the SSNY on 10/19/17. pose.

Purpose: Any lawful activity. of CVE cess the City, LLC. L PhD Psychologist onagainst 09/15/17. desOF HOLDINGS St., Albany, NY served 12207. Sam Stateagainst formed in DE on LLC 04/16/2015. cessas forGoldman mayupon be of Auth. filed with Secy of upon whom process LLC source Energy Systems, LLC ed agent ofit SSNY LLC served. proa t o AMERIGO a t Purpose: 91 4 - 6Art. 9any 9 -of7lawful 4Org. 4 0 Notice The 299 12 a t o aLLC, tSSNY 9Formation 14 -shall 6 9West 9mail -of 74 4 0th (NJ) 10017.

O rgArts. filed wOrg. iththe Secy. of O f f i c ehim/her N e w lawful Y o r k8activity. . StoneSagent S N Y filed EI6 WEST, upon is: with the Secy of filed State. of as agent of LLC PLLC of filed with LLC Articles of Org. with NOTICE OF FORMATION Purpose: Any SSNY is: designated as served.process SSNY shall mail pro- S State off NNY (SSNY) against it MANLIUS may served.

Application for of against itupon may whom cess toApt Corporation damato@ defoecorp.com or US Street 3J, NY,be NYService 10014. damato@ defoecorp.com or ignated activity. t a t e ofo Y of (Certificate S S N(SSNY) Y ) oon n d e s ALLTID i gwhom nDrive a t e dprocess a g e n tagainst uLLC. pCT o n the LLC Arts. of Org. filed with house Moosup, State of NY (SSNY) on process against it may Secy.

State NY whom Secretary of State of NY the SPIRITS OF Notice of Formation of 277 upon to c/o Corporation SerN.Y. Office location: cess 10/29/19 SSNY shall mail process to Authority filed with the Secy be served.

SSNY shall mail Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY bids@ defoecorp.com Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Notice of Formation of 319 1 2 / 1 9 / 1 7 . O f f i c e l o c : N Y bids@ defoecorp.com whom process against the State Purpose: of NYMoses (SSNY) 06354.

The principal busiOffice served.

SSNY shall mail on 09/16/21.

Office location: (SSNY) 11/5/2019.

Arts of Org filed with Secy of 09/15/2021.

LLC Arts.location: Org. Secy.

FIFTH the LLC may be served.

FEYNMAN POINT LLC, Arts.

Notice 35A ofonformation ofofOffice Signs vice New York County.

SSNY has Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Gideonof Rothschild, & be of State of New York (SSNY) process to c/o Corporation 12207-2543.

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S tLandau, reet, LL C C LLC mshall afiled y NY bmail eof sthe eprocess rthe vLLC e dSSNY aisto: n 10/01/21.

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The SSNY has process NY County. office of c/o NY County. location: Albany, NY DE State of (SSNY) on filed with Secy. ofArts State of NY on lawful activity.

SSNY Org. with LLC. ofSSNY Org of Candles designated agent been LLP, 405 Lexington Singer on 05/18/2021.

NY as office loCo. (CSC), 80 State Bid Date: January 25, 2018 Bid Date: upon whom process Art. of55 filed withSte. Sec. of agent shall mailOffice process against to been th January 24, 2018 County. of Stonehouse Drive Moosup, designated agent of NY PLLC: 675 3rd Ave., Ste.it DLA, Lane Rd., 310, designated as agent ofOffice ofOrg. LLC: CSC, 251 Little addr.Albany, 11/7/19. location: NY (SSNY) on 08/02/21.

The LLC, 369 West 126th on filed with 09/22/2020.

Office loc: Secy. ofas State ofLLC NY upon whom process Ave., 12is Fl., Princ.

NY,given NYoffice 10174. cation NY County.

NY 12207-2543.

St., Notice hereby that a m a y b e s e rv e10017. d aSSNY nagainst d SSNY s hhas a ll State of NY (SSNY) on SepLegal Corp Solutions 109 W. 27th St., 8th Fl., CT 06354.

Connecticut adthe LLC upon whomOffice process 1037, NY, NY NJ 07004.

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NY5/29/20.

County.

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Street, Mgmt Suite, NY,LLC, NY location: SSNY hasdesignated been des(SSNY) on lomay be served.

The Post OfDE addr. of LLC: c/o Corpobeen designated as an agent DE addr. of LLC: c/o CSC, license, number 1331331 for tember 15, 2017. Office in mail copy of process against 11Broadway Ste 615 New NY 10001.

SSNY desigdress ofupon LLC: 8 Stonehouse mayCounty. be SSNY served and NY, as agent of PLLC LLC: c/o DLA, 55 Lane be served. shall may license, serial Co., #1338366 for of rate agent whom process 19808. ofDr., Form. filed designated Service 251 Little office ofitLLC: 277 Fifth SSNY Ave., 10027.

Address required to against as agent upon whom NY ignated cation: address to which the fice whom upon process against it 251 LittleCert.

Falls Wilmingliquor license, has been apto:shall USprocess Corp.

Agents, N Y DE CDE o 19808. uSecy. n 310, ty. S SN Y d sDiv. iNJ g . LLC York, York 10004. nated as agent of LLC Drive Moosup, CTshall 06354 Ste. Fairfield, mail aNY copy of any proupon whom against it mail process to: Justin L. Galbeer wine has been apton, beNew served and mail of State, may with Dr., Wilmington, DE Rd., Falls NY, 10016.

SSNY #35A, Cert. of Form. be maintained in DE: 108 shall process against the LLC may designated as agent upon SSNY mail copy of may be served andashall mail The New York Amsterdam News plied & for Kem Rest Inc. upon d/b/a Inc. 7014 13th Ave., #202, agent of LLC upon w hom Purpose: Any lawful activity. whom process against it may Place of business in state of Cert. of Form. filed 07004. cess to Harlem Sam City, may be served.

SSNY shall 52 Downs Avenue, letti, plied for by the undersigned copy of process against LLC Of Corps., John G. Townsend 19808.

Cert. of Form. filed as agent of LLC designated filed with Jeffrey W. Bullock, West 13th SSNY St., Wilmington, be served. shall mail whom process may be Don Giovanni Ristorante to process LLC aany copy of any against processthe against K , LLC N Yupon 1 1 2is 2 8C/O . P rPLLC inisc ip aatl pBldg., r o cState eof s sState m a yofbthe eSt., sDept. eSte. r v e dof served.

SSNY shall mail origin, Connecticut.

Certifi- LLC, Treasurer, c/o Genesis Compamail process to the Stamford, CT PurDE 19801. of Formation to sell beerat& wine in with to principal business 401 Federal 4,. B with Secy. of State of DE, upon process against it be Secy.

State willwhom be Monday, January 15, 2018 in to: Cert Daniel L.address: Kesten, andclosed shall06902. mail copy of process served served the LLC the served upon C/O sell liquor retail inat aretail restauaddress: 562 W. S S NDiv. Y sDE hof a ll19901. m aofil NJ cPurpose: o pState y G. o f business th filed with Secretounder Corporation Sercate of LLC State 745 Fifth Avenue, the addr. of its #3305, princ. office.

Any lawful activity.

The process pose: filed with Div. 27D, of Corps, aCorp. bakery the ABCBldg., Law Treasury, W. 57DE Street, New nies, 601 Dover, Dept., Townsend may be served.

SSNY shall Corps., John DE, ESQ. C/O Pryor Cashman process against LLC to Suite 2010 Alton Rd, Miami 450LLC: CT Corporation Sysrant under the Alcoholic BevTo advertise your 48th t . , 33139. # 2 6Street, ,of NPurpose: Y , New NY process to: 163 74th St., 1 observance of Martin King Jr.St., Day vice Co., 8019901.

State St., Al- House, tary of7NY State of Connecticut BoxW. 002, TrenNew NY 10151.

Purpose: Practice PsycholLLC is to beYork, managed by one at 115 Delancey 401 St., Suite 4, 500, York, 10019.

Purpose: purposes, specificalAll legalP.O. Dover, process to the LLC at Luther DE Purpose: mail Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal LLP, Times Square, NY, Grand Ave, Apt 1C, Bronx, Beach, tem, 28SFL Liberty erage Control Law at NYC 214 publicFederal and legal notices, Purpose: lawful N N Y08625.

023 . DE P u rp oAny s e : 10031.

NY 12207-2543.

Purlocated at:act.

165 Capitol Av- Purpose: Purpose: to engage inoffice. any bany, ogy any lawfulany activity reor managers.

10002 for activity. on-premises Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any and lawful activity. any lyYtravel related. the Any addr. ofPurpose: its princ.any St. -, NJ Ste. 4,1 0Dover, 19901.

10036.

Purpose: Any 10453. lawNY lawful NYmore York, NY 10005.

Purpose: 10thlawful Ave, New York, NYconfor ton, act. any lawful activity. call Lawful 212-932-7435 pose: Any consumption. lawful Sucre activity. lawful lating thereto. enue, Hartford, CT 06115 lawful activity. sumption; Salon LLC. Any Purpose.

Any lawful activity.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Lawful Purpose ful act.activity. premises

Contact: Phone:this (212)620−0938 Under agreement rates are Fax#: of a cancellation before event Email: rate charged will be based upo Agency: −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− PUB ZONE EDT AMNEWS TP RUN CORPORAT DATES ______________________________ AN A 97 S 01/07,14 FREDERICK DOUG Name (print2340 or type) −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− NEW YORK NY 10 (212)932−740 .

Under this agreement rates ar ORDER CONFIRMAT event of a cancellation befor rate charged will be based up Salesperson: Not Applicable Print −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− Acct #: 370 Ad #: _____________________________ Name (print or type) MORRISON & TENEBAUM Start 87 WALKER STREET Times NEW YORK NY 10013 STD 1 .

Total Class Rate:

Contact: Ad De Phone: (212)620−0938 Given Fax#: P.O. Email: Creat Agency: Last −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− PUB ZONE EDT TP RUN DATES AN A 97 S 12/31 01/07 −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− AUTHORIZATIO

Under this agreement rates are subject to ch event of a cancellation before schedule comp rate charged will be based upon the rate for

101 LEGAL NOTICE

888-609-0248 _____________________________________ _____ Name (print or type) Name

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October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 31

101 LEGAL NOTICES

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Notice of Qualification of GAR Equipment, L.L.C. Authority filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/12/21. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in New Jersey (NJ) on 03/31/11.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: 27 Ramsey Rd., Lebanon, NJ 08833, also the address to be maintained in NJ. Arts of Org. filed with the State Treasurer of the State of NJ, 125 W State St., Trenton, NJ 08625.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

NOTICE OF QUALIFICATIONS of LLC. Auth. Ivonne Welch Insurance Agency, LLC filed Secretary of State (SSNY) on 08/10/21. Office Location: NY County. LLC org. in California. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom proc. against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of proc. to: 25240 Hancock Avenue Suite 305, Murrieta, CA 92562. Purpose: any lawful activity.

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Notice of Formation of THE FUSION FILMS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/19/21.

Office location: NY County.

Princ. office of LLC: 365 3rd Ave., #4B, NY, NY 100169073. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to So Young Yang at the princ. office of the LLC. Purpose: Any lawful activity Notice is hereby given that a license, serial #1338847 for beer, wine & liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine & liquor at retail in a Restaurant under the ABC Law at 200 gth Ave., NYC 10011 for onpremises consumption; Ruam Mitr Corporation.

Notice of Formation of The Hip Factory, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/27/21.

Office location: NY County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: 888 Seventh Ave., 4th Fl., NY, NY 10106. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of formation: Sam City Collaborative, LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the Secy of State. of the State of NY (SSNY) on 09/15/2021. Office location: NY County. The SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of any process to Sam City Collaborative, LLC, c/o Genesis Companies, 745 Fifth Avenue, Suite 500, New York, NY 10151. Purpose: to engage in any lawful activity.

Notice of the formation of Limited Liability Company.

Name: NYCR SUB-CDE 17, LLC (“LLC”). Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (“SSNY”) on August 10, 2021. NY office location: New York County. The SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom the process against it may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: NYCR SUB-CDE 17, LLC, c/o NYCR-CDE, LLC, 99 Hudson Street, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10013. Purpose / character of LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

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Notice of formation of 333 East 30th Street Holding LLC LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/31/2021 NY office location: NY County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon is C/O the LLC: 333 East 30th Street 20F Property Holding LLC 212 East 47th Street, Unit 25C New York, NY, 10017.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Mott 7 LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 09/27/21. Off Loc: New York County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 52 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

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Notice of formation of Pain Free Strength LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/24/20 NY office location: NY County. SSNY has been designated as an agent upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon is C/O the LLC: 4558 Broadway, New York, NY 10040. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

AEZ INVESTORS MANAGEMENT GROUP, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/22/21. Office: New York County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 36 Dominick Street, New York, NY 10013. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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Notice of Qualification of HOLONIX, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/28/21.

Office location: NY County.

LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 05/27/15. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 37 E. 18th St., 7th Fl., NY, NY 10003. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808-1674. Cert. of Form. filed with Dept. of State: Div. of Corps., John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice is hereby given that a license, serial # 1339346 for beer, wine & liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine & liquor at retail in a restaurant under the ABC Law at 197 2nd Ave., NYC 10003 for onpremises consumption; Fine Food and Spirits Inc.

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Notice of Qualification of SOLUTIONS HEALING (REMEDY) LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/28/21.

Office location: NY County.

LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 01/25/21. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 37 E. 18th St., 7th Fl., NY, NY 10003. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808-1674. Cert. of Form. filed with Dept. of State: Div. of Corps., John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of JReady Entertainment, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/27/21. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 888 Seventh Ave., 4th Fl., NY, NY 10106. Purpose: any lawful activities.

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Monticello Central School

Special Education Openings General Counsel Job Description The New York City Independent Budget Office (IBO) is seeking a General Counsel.

IBO provides impartial, nonpartisan information on the city budget, tax revenues, and the local economy to elected officials and the public. The agencys General Counsel provides all manner of legal support to the agency in pursuing these City Charter mandated responsibilities.

The General Counsel will be responsible for providing legal strategy support and services to IBO, including: Advising the IBO Director and leadership team on all agency policies and protocols to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations Negotiating, drafting and implementing data sharing and confidentiality agreements between IBO and state and local agencies Provide legal research in support of IBOs analytical work and review publications to ensure accuracy of legal interpretations Minimum Qualification Requirements Admission to the New York State Bar required. Four years of recent and relevant legal experience, subsequent to admission to the New York State Bar, a plus.

Preferred Skills Excellent organizational, time-management, and multitasking skills, including the ability to take initiative, problem solve, balance competing priorities, work independently and with teams, pay close attention to detail Strong oral and written communication skills Proven ability to establish and maintain effective and congenial working relationships with a wide range of governmental and external entities Residency Requirement New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for two continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.

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Kamala Continued from page 4

nevermind Newark,” said Murphy.

Rozier explained that he had connected with Booker over the radio about 7 years ago, which prompted him to consider the move to Newark.

“I was on the phone chat on the radio show, and his words were, ‘How great it would be to have a cupcake shop in Newark.’

Who knew?” said Rozier to the crowd in the shop.

Harris stopped to speak to a young girl, Ulani, who does her homework in the shop everyday afterschool until her mom gets off work before ordering a slew of cakes to take home for her family.

“The smell is just ridiculous, it’s so good,” said Harris, picking out her goodies.

Of course, the tour wasn’t all cupcakes and cream.

Harris and Murphy spent most of the morning with Congressmember Mikie Sherrill, Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller, and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, greeting students and classrooms of children.

They thanked various teachers and vaccination workers for their efforts during the pandemic.

Concerns about serious child care staff shortages have arisen since Murphy announced that all child care center workers in New Jersey must be

fully vaccinated after Nov. 1. Chalkbeat reported that advocates are saying that many smaller daycare centers just don’t have the funds to remain open and staffed if people choose not to get vaccinated.

At a private roundtable conversation with parents and leaders at Ben Samuels Children’s Center at Montclair State University, Harris spoke about the importance of federal investment in child care through the Biden administration’s “Build Back Better” plan.

“And I know, first hand, how difficult child care is in this country. But I can also tell you that it’s just gotten worse after the pandemic,” said Harris.

“So right now, we’re fighting to build an economic recovery and invest in access to affordable, high quality child care.”

Harris said she has been working to address challenges that women in the workforce face, many of whom had to drop out of their jobs as a direct result of childcare issues and school closures.

Ariama C. Long is a Report for America corps member and writes about culture and politics in New York City for The Amsterdam News. Your donation to match our RFA grant helps keep her writing stories like this one; please consider making a tax-deductible gift of any amount today by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/fcszwj8w

Education Continued from page 24

the Seeds and planted herself into their rich resources.

Although Jasmin’s search ended, for countless other young non-white women, the search for financial freedom proceeds. Likewise, those at Seeds of Fortune Inc. continue to make space to help them.

“We’re looking to help more women of color in New York and across the U.S.,” Walker said.

Recently, the organization expanded its financial aid and scholarship opportunities in partnerships with nine colleges and universities including: Claremont Mckenna College, Pitzer College, Occidental College, George Washington University, University of Notre Dame, Babson College, Antioch College, Lasell University and Goddard College. Through this expansion, Seeds can offer more educational and economic opportunities to young nonwhite women scholars.

For more information about the Seeds of Fortune organization, to become a Seed, or connect with Nitiya Walker: Visit www. seedsoffortune.org Email: hello@seedsoffortune.org

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 33

The Knicks solidify their rotation with Robinson still a question mark The Knicks conclude their fourgame preseason schedule tomorrow at Madison Square Garden versus the Washington Wizards and then will get set for the regular season start against the Boston Celtics at home next Wednesday.

After facing the Celtics, the Knicks will meet up with the Orlando Magic for two games, the first on the road next Friday then back at the Garden on Sunday.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau, now in his second season leading the squad, is shaping the core of the Knicks’ rotation, integrating new additions, point guard Kemba Walker and shooting guard Evan Fournier, into a starting lineup that includes mainstays Julius Randle and RJ Barrett. Forward Obi Toppin, selected by the Knicks eighth overall in the 2020 draft, has carved out a spot among the first five as his solid playoff performance against the Atlanta Hawks last season carried over into a stellar showing at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

One of the more intriguing storylines for the Knicks this upcoming season will be the play and status of fourth-year center Mitchell Robinson. The 2018 second round pick (No. 36) has been an impact player for the Knicks when healthy.

The Pensacola, Florida, native made All-Rookie Second Team, posting 7.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks, the latter number ranking him second in the league. For his career, he is averaging 2.1 per game.

Robinson is also adept at guarding on pick and rolls, using his 7-foot frame and length to help and recover. And arguably no interior player is better at rotating out on shooters from the paint and contesting three-point attempts. Conversely, his offense is a work in progress. Robinson’s cumulative field goal percentage in his first three seasons is an impressively efficient 70.5%, but he takes only 5.1 shots per game.

However, injuries have been an impediment to the 23-yearold’s offensive development.

(Bill Moore photo)

By JAIME C. HARRIS AmNews Sports Editor

Knicks center Mitchell Robinson, now in his fourth year, played in only 31 games last season due to a fractured right hand and broken foot

Robinson appeared in just 31 of the Knicks’ 71 games last season due to fracturing his right hand on Feb. 12 against the Washington Wizards.

He then sustained a fractured right foot March 27 versus the Milwaukee Bucks, which ended his 2020-’21 campaign.

When training camp began last month, the Knicks had no definitive date set for Robinson’s return to game action.

“When he’s ready, he’s ready,” said Thibodeau in late September. “I think it’s important for us to have the big picture in mind with him.”

The Knicks will also have a decision to make regarding Robinson’s future with the team. He is playing on a $1.8 million salary this season and can become an unrestricted free-agent next summer.

Nets say Kyrie has to make his own choices

By VINCENT DAVIS Special to the AmNews The new NBA regular season, the NBA’s 75th anniversary, begins next week. Amended COVID protocols such as players and coaches sitting side by side on the bench will have a look and feel of the pre-pandemic days. But one of those seats, for now, won’t be occupied by Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving.

“Given the evolving nature of the situation, and after thorough deliberation, we have decided Kyrie Irving will not play or practice with the team until he is eligible to be a full participant,” Brooklyn general manager Sean Marks said in a statement on Tuesday morning.

Irving was told on Tuesday about the Nets’ decision made

by Marks and team owner Joe Tsai. “This decision came down to what we felt was the right move for the organization at this time.” Their message to Irving is, get vaccinated! The Nets reached this judgement despite their practice facility recently being deemed an office building by the New York City government. The city government has mandated all individuals seeking entry into sports venues in New York City such as the Barclays Center be

values of togetherness and sacrifice,” Marks said. “Kyrie has made a personal choice, and we respect his individual right to choose.”

Marks added the important point that “currently, the choice restricts his ability to be a fulltime member of the team, and we will not permit any member of our team to participate with part-time availability.”

Even though Irving, the league’s NBPA vice president, has the right to choose, and the Nets acknowledge that right, not being vaccinated will place his $34.9 million salary for this season in jeopardy.

The Nets, who will play their last preseason game tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves Barclays Center, open their regular season schedule with two games on the road facing the defending NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday followed by the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday.

As a point of reference, it was the Bucks who defeated Brooklyn in seven games last season, winning the Eastern Conference championship, and going on to win the NBA Finals beOn Tuesday, Nets general manager Sean Marks said in a written statement All-Star Kyrie Irving cause of the tip of Durant’s foot will not be allowed to practice or play with the team until he is eligible for full participation being on the line, limiting his vaccinated. ciation that players will lose a “It is imperative that we shot at the buzzer to a two and The NBA recently announced portion of their salary for every continue to build chemis- not a three, sending the game in an agreement with the Na- game missed due to local vac- try as a team, and remain into overtime instead of the tional Basketball Players Asso- cine mandates. true to our long-established Nets to the NBA championship.

(Bill Moore photo)

34 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Injuries and inconsistency undermine the 1-4 Giants The Giants went into their game on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys already undermanned and disadvantaged. Wide receivers Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton were out with hamstring injuries, and left tackle Andrew Thomas, who is having a strong second year after a challenging rookie season, was active but essentially unavailable with a foot injury.

Murphy’s Law manifested in the first quarter when running back Saquon Barkley suffered a low left ankle sprain, ending his day.

At 3:47 in the second, quarterback Daniel Jones ran wide left on third down and goal from the Cowboys 1-yard line and had a helmet-tohelmet collision with linebacker Jabril Cox. He got up but began staggering like a boxer rocked with a flush right hand.

Jones was carted off of the field, subsequently diagnosed with a concussion and did not return.

Along with Barkley and Jones exiting, wide receiver Kenny Golladay, the Giants’ top off-season free-agent signing, had his day cut short after hyperextending his knee in the first quarter.

The Giants’ defense held the fort for the team with many of the battered offensive brethren sidelined, and they trailed by

only 17-10 at half.

Kadarius Toney. DraftYet the explosive ed No. 20 overall in April Cowboys offense, from the University of currently ranked Florida, Toney was elecsecond in the NFL tric, catching 10 passes in both points for 189 yards. He put a per game (34) slight blemish on his day and total yards after being ejected at 6:24 (439.6 per outing) of the fourth quarter for took command in hitting Cowboys safety the third quarter Damontae Kazee with a behind quarterpunch. Toney was reactback Dak Prescott ing to being aggressiveand running back ly thrown to the turf by Ezekiel Elliot.

Kazee.

With Giants vet“Look, there’s a pretty eran Mike Glendistinct line in terms of non in for Jones, competing and doing the the offense things we’re not going couldn’t keep pace to condone as a team with the Cowthat put us behind,” said boys, who outGiants head coach Joe scored them 27-10 Judge regarding Toney’s Wide receiver Sterling Shepard was among several key Giants in the second half penalty. “That’s not going starters out with injuries in their 44-20 loss to the Dallas for a command- Cowboys last Sunday to be accepted. It’s not ing 44-20 victogoing to be condoned. r y. The loss dropped the Giants downs filling in for Jones. “This is That’s as far as I’m going to go to 1-4 heading into this Sunday’s the NFL . You don’t put your head with that.” game at home at MetLife Stadium down. You come back the next Golladay was supportive of the versus the 4-1 Los Angeles Rams, week.

22-year-old wideout. “At the end of one of the league’s best. The avail“Starting tomorrow, we will put the day, he is still a rookie and he ability of the injured players for our best foot for ward and it is just has a lot of learning to do,” assessed Sunday had not been released by business as usual. You have to the former Detroit Lion. “He’s going the Giants as of early yesterday come back ever y day, keep fight- to make mistakes. The only thing I (Wednesday). ing, keep working and stick to- can tell him is true is not to make “I think all we have to do is gether.” that mistake. He is a rookie. I am keepfighting and come back to One positive take away from the pretty sure he wishes he could have work,” said Glennon after going loss was the performance of the that moment back. Turn the other 16-25 for 196 yards and two touch- Giants’ rookie first round pick cheek. He will learn from it.”

B S (Bill Moore photo)

By JAIME C. HARRIS AmNews Sports Editor

T

Iman Shumpert showing solid moves on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Now in its 30th season, “Dancing with the Stars” has featured many active and retired football players among its celebrity contestants, but just a few NBA players. Only Clyde D r e x l e r, Rick Fox , Kareem A b d u l - J a b b a r, Derek Fisher and Charles Oakley have taken to the d a n c e f l o o r. T h i s season, Iman Shumpert has laced up dancing shoes and shown h e ’s got some skills. “ Just trying s o m e t h i n g n e w ,” said Shumpert, who has played with both the New Yo r k K n i c k s a n d

(ABC/Christopher Willard photo)

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews

Despite the height difference with professional partner Daniella Karagach, Iman Shumpert nailed the tango

the Brooklyn Nets. “I’m not from a dancing background.

I’m one of those guys that I’ve got to try stuff before I can even knock it and down it. I t r y a n d d o m y b e s t t o u n d e rstand things. When [my management] hit me to be a part of the show, I didn’t have [an NBA] contract, so I figured, l e t ’s t r y .”

In w e e k o n e, S h u m p e r t p e rformed the jive, in week two the rumba and in week three t h e t a n g o . T h i s w e e k ’s p e r formances channeled iconic Disney characters with heroes and villains. His professiona l d a n c e p a r t n e r, D a n i e l l a Karagach, has crafted dances t h a t s h o w S h u m p e r t ’s m u s i cality.

“I definitely see where I can i m p r o v e ,” s a i d S h u m p e r t . “ I ’ v e been watching some other d a n c e r s o n Yo u Tu b e , t r y i n g to figure out the posture and what about the dance is univ e r s a l .”

Karagach was born and raised in Brooklyn, so Shumpert has shared some of his N e w Yo r k s t o r i e s . “ T h e b a s k e t -

b a l l c o a c h e s I h a v e h a d w o u l dj a p p r e c i a t e h e r f o o t w o r k ,” h et s a i d . “ N o m a t t e r h o w m u c h IF h i t a w a l l , s h e s o r t o f s m i l e sc a n d w e ’ l l d r i l l i t a g a i n . … Is f e e l s h e p i c k s s o m e p r e t t y c o o la m o m e n t s i n t h e c h o r e o g r a -w p h y t o l e t m e h a v e t h e s t a g e t oc s h i n e . W i t h e a c h d a n c e s t y l e ,t t h e r e ’s a l w a y s a c h a l l e n g e o fj o u r h e i g h t d i f f e r e n c e , b u t s h ec t a k e s o n t h e c h a l l e n g e .”

V H i s w i f e , s i n g e r- s o n g w r i t -F e r, a c t r e s s a n d d a n c e r Te y a n at Ta y l o r ( o r i g i n a l l y f r o m N e wO Yo r k C i t y ) a n d t h e i r t w o d a u g h -h t e r s h a v e j o i n e d h i m i n L o sb A n g e l e s . A s o f n o w , S h u m p e r tt a n d K a r a g a c h h a v e n o t d a n c e dh t o a n y o f Ta y l o r ’s m u s i c , b u t h e ’s h o p e f u l t o k e e p a d v a n c i n ga i n t h e c o m p e t i t i o n s o t h a t p o s -p s i b i l i t y a r i s e s . H e a l s o h o p e sr t h e r e i s m o r e p r o f e s s i o n -f a l b a s k e t b a l l i n h i s f u t u r e , s ow S h u m p e r t c o n t i n u e s t o t r a i n .d I f h e r e t u r n s t o t h e h a r d w o o d ,s h e ’s g o t n e w s k i l l s t o s h o w o f f .a “‘ D a n c i n g w i t h t h e S t a r s ’C r e a l l y d o e s h e l p m e w i t h s o m eS o f t h e f o o t w o r k ,” S h u m p e r tT s a i d . “ I h o p e i t h e l p s m e g e te a r o u n d s o m e s c r e e n s .” n

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021 • 35

Chicago Sky and Phoenix Mercury power their way into the WNBA Finals

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews

m o n d D e S h i e l d s , Pa r k e r was able to elevate the Sky to a level it hadn’t seen since the departure of Elena Delle Donne.

The Sky d e f e a ted the heavily favored Connecticut Sun in the semifinals.

The Sun came into the semi-finals on a 14game winning streak headlined by 2021 WNBA MVP Jonquel Jones, b u t Pa r k e r w a s determined, and the Sky headed to its first Finals since 2014.

In an intriguing coincidence, the team the Sky faces is the Mercur y, its opponent i n t h e S k y ’s only previous F i n a l s a p p e a r(Connecticut Sun photo)

There is a line in a S h a n i a Tw a i n s o n g t h a t g o e s , “ We m i g h t h a v e took the long way; we k n e w w e ’d g e t t h e r e s o m e d a y .” I t k i n d o f s u m s u p t h i s y e a r ’s p a rticipants in the WNBA F i n a l s , t h e P h o e n i x M e rcury and the Chicago Sky. Not only did these two teams, which finished fifth and sixth in WNBA regular season play, have to play ever y round of the playoffs, but the Mercur y were pushed to a fifth and deciding game in the semifinals.

Despite being a twotime WNBA MVP and leading the Los Angeles Sparks to the 2016 WNBA C h a m p i o n s h i p, C a n d a c e Pa r k e r h a s b e e n l a r g e ly overlooked in recent y e a r s . Fo r t h i s s e a s o n , Pa r k e r m a d e t h e b o l d move to return to her hometown of Chicago and join the Sky for her 14th WNBA season. She

dealt with injury and Combined with team missed nine games, but stalwarts such as Allie when she turned it on, Quigley, Courtney she delivered.

Va n d e r s l o o t a n d D i a -

Candace Parker is proving you can go home again

Taurasi voted GOAT of the WNBA’s first 25 years

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert made it clear that the league honors and fully supports the social justice activism of the players. “Our Social Justice Council, which came out of the events of last year, has continued their work very fervently this year, I may add, on three pillars,” said Engelbert. “One is health inequities, particularly in communities of color, one is LGBTQ+ advocacy, and the third and where we’ve spent a lot of time is voting rights and civic engagement. “ The social justice work of the WNBA is player-led, league facilitated and amplified,” she added. “ These players command other social justice leaders in society to actually come talk to them about their strong voices and what change they want to see.”

(WNBA photo)

The announcement came just prior to game one of the 2021 WNBA Finals.

Fans voted Phoenix Mercur y guard Diana Taurasi the league’s greatest of all time (GOAT). Taurasi, who welcomed her second child with wife and former teammate Penny Taylor just hours after the Mercur y defeated the Las Vegas Aces for a spot in the Finals, joined the league as the top draft pick in 2004.

Over the past 17 years, she has dealt with injuries, but somehow always rises to the occasion when the heat is on.

It is almost inconceivable that some of the players on current WNBA rosters weren’t even in first grade when Taurasi was drafted, but it’s wonderful that they show respect and admiration for amazing talents such as Cynthia Cooper, Sher yl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie and Tina Thompson. Earlier this season, the WNBA named The W25, the great-

est players in league his- for the WNBA to embrace on Black Lives Matter, they tor y. No current New York the LGBTQ+ community initially encountered exLiberty players made the both in terms of encour- treme pushback but were list, but among those aging players to be their undaunted. This ser ves as named who have worn the authentic selves if they a historical marker of how Liberty uniform are Tina Charles, Swin Cash, Becky Hammon, Katie Smith (also an assistant and head coach) and Cappie Pondexter.

As we honor these women who have helped shape the WNBA , it is also time to acknowledge some of the challenging aspects of the league’s histor y. Thankfully, many of the negatives have Diana Taurasi is named the WNBA’s Greatest of All Time been spectacularly righted in recent years, but they so chose and in acknowl- committed these players shouldn’t be forgotten. edging and celebrating its have always been to utiIt took more than 15 years LGBTQ fan base. In 2016, lizing their platform for into the league’s existence when players took a stand bigger purposes.

ance, which the Mercur y dominated. The Mercur y is led by one of the great leaders in basketball hist o r y , D i a n a Ta u r a s i , a n d B r i t t n e y G r i n e r, w h o h a s elevated her game to a new level this season.

D e s p i t e t h e L a s Ve g a s Aces being younger and faster and the Mercur y being without guard K i a Nu r s e , w h o s u f f e r e d a t o r n A C L i n g a m e f o u r, somehow the Mercur y prevailed in game five.

It was due to the unrel e n t i n g f o c u s o n Ta u r a si and the sheer will of G r i n e r. E v e n t h o u g h t h e N e w Yo r k e r s o n t h e M e rcury didn’t play a lot of minutes, there is New Yo r k b a s k e t b a l l e n e r g y and tenacity in Long Isl a n d e r B r i a Ha r t l e y a n d B ro n x n a t i v e K i a Va u g h n , both of whom are playing in their first WNBA Finals.

The Sky prevailed over the Mercur y 91–77 in game one in Phoenix. Play continued last night. The Finals resume t o m o r r o w i n C h i c a g o.

36 • October 14, 2021 - October 20, 2021

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Sports

Redone and re-opened, Rucker Park carries on its legacy

By VINCENT DAVIS Special to the AmNews

ry is “more than about basketball.” The grey skies that lingered above Upper ManThis past Saturday at Rucker hattan early Saturday afterPark, located at 155th Street noon were brightened by and Eighth Avenue in Harlem, the shine of Rucker legends an official celebration of its Julius “Dr. J” Irving, Nate renovation and reopening was “Tiny” Archibald, Joe Hamheld. The iconic courts had mond and Pee Wee Kirkbecome worn over the many land. Also in attendance decades of use, unleveled and were family members and sunken in some areas. friends of the illustrious HolSince August, work crews combe Rucker, after whom from the Department of the park is named, and Greg Parks and Recreation, as Marius, the late founder of well as private contractors, the Entertainers Basketball restored and reconstructClassic. The court at Rucker ed the park and courts at a Park bears Marius’ name. cost with funding from the Other prominent figures National Basketball Playcommemorating the day ers’ Association at a cost of were Michelle Roberts, ex$520,000. New bleachers, ecutive director of the NBA a state-of-the-art outdoor Players’ Association since scoreboard and fiberglass NBA back- member of the New York City Basket- their basketball legacy.”

2014, who was instrumental in spearboards with break-away rims now ball Hall of Fame and one of the orgaGus Wells, the chief executive of heading the occasion, rap artist Fat Joe, highlight the venue. nizers of the event. “They’re both known the Entertainers Basketball Classic, and basketball luminaries Rod Strick“This is a great day for Rucker Park throughout the world for their many which is held at Rucker Park during land, Freddie Crawford, Tom Hoover, and Harlem,” said Bob McCullough, a contributions. This will further extend the summer, said the park’s histo- Carl Green and Smush Parker.

(Bill Moore photo)

Rucker Park ribbin cutting

The Jon Gruden scandal underscores society’s diverging prism

By JAIME C. HARRIS AmNews Sports Editor

(Wikipedia photo)

only four years into a 10-year, $100 million contract with the team before inevitably being The United States is fired by owner Mark Davis. in a period of dramatGruden stepped down less ic cultural change that than an hour after a New York has seen homophoTimes report exposed emails bia and misogyny take the Sandusky, Ohio native its place, and arguhad purportedly sent, many ably surpass racism to erstwhile Washington Footagainst Black men and ball Team president Bruce women, as deleteriAllen dating back to 2011, ous acts of bias that using explicit racist, antigay subverts one’s career and misogynistic language. opportunities, social The scandal came to light standing and legacy. last Friday when the Wall All are reprehensiStreet Journal reported that ble. But while racist during the 2011 National tropes and connotaFootball League player locktions voiced or written out, Gruden, who at that time by high profile public was working as a broadcaster figures ascribed to for ESPN after being go as AMlet NEWS Black folks are still the head coach of the Tampa met with widespread Bay Buccaneers 10/07/21 in January indignation and stern of 2009, emailed Allen rantOn Monday night, former Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon rebuke, such incidents ing about NFL Players AssoGruden resigned after a New York Times report revealed he are often survivable. ciation President DeMaurice had made racist, anti-gay and misogynistic comments in Obligatory censures Smith. emails spanning 10 years are issued while sev“Dumboriss [sic] Smith has en-and eight-figure the lips the size of michellin salaries and powerful positions are re- taking place among Black people. What [sic] tires,” wrote Gruden. On AMMonday, NEWS tained. Not so much when it is homo- if Gruden’s words were solely of a racist Smith, who is a Black man, tweeted: 10/14/21 phobic and misogynistic slurs. nature. Would he still be the head coach “The email from Jon Gruden—and some Jon Gruden is the latest catalyst of of the Las Vegas Raiders today? On of the reaction to it—confirms that the the “what if?” hypothetical discussions Monday night, the 58-year-old resigned fight against racism, racist tropes and

intolerance is not over. This is not about an email as much as it is about a pervasive belief by some that people who look like me can be treated as less.”

Gruden put forth penance to the Wall Street Journal on Friday, in part stating, “I don’t think he’s dumb…I don’t have a racial bone in my body.”

Other leaked emails, which were discovered as part of the NFL’s investigation into the toxic workplace culture of the Washington Football Team that began in July 2020 and led to the league fining the franchise $10 million this past July, revealed Gruden referring to commissioner Roger Goodell as a “fa***t” and “p***y,” chiding the NFL’s public embracing of players engaging in racial justice demonstrations and critical of the league hiring female referees.

Gruden deserves the extensive backlash and ostracizing to which he is being 01414 subjected. Frustratingly, we will never AM NE know on 10/07/ 0 with certainty if 7the pressure 74470 22784 him would have had the same intensity absent his homophobic and misogynistic vitriol.

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AM NE 10/14/