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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Urban Bush Women Walking with ’Trane Connecticut Premiere
Urban Bush Women returns to Wesleyan with the Connecticut premiere of Walking with ’Trane, inspired by the musical life and spiritual journey of the famed jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and set to live music.
Friday, March 3, 2017 8pm CFA Theater 271 Washington Terrace, Middletown
Tickets on sale now! $28 general public; $26 senior citizens, Wesleyan
faculty/staff/alumni, non-Wesleyan students; $6 Wesleyan students, youth under 18
860-685-3355 www.wesleyan.edu/cfa CENTER FOR THE ARTS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY MIDDLETOWN, CONNECTICUT
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Harp: No Tax Hike
by PAUL BASS New Haven government will spend more money this coming fiscal year, but will keep taxes the same as last year — at least in the proposed budget Mayor Toni Harp plans to unveil Tuesday afternoon. Harp offered a preview of her proposal during an appearance on the WNHH radio “Mayor Monday” program. Each year the mayor proposes a budget by March 1 for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts July 1. Then the Board of Alders holds hearings on it, makes adjustments, votes on a new version, and sends it back to the mayor for her signature or veto. Harp didn’t reveal the total size of the proposed general operating budget. But she said rises in some fixed costs have necessitated an increase. For instance, fire and police pension costs rose $8.5 million over this past year, largely driven by an increase in retirements by firefighters who were earning lots of overtime pay because of recently reduced shortages in the ranks. Firefighters have their pensions calculated based on their four most recent years’ earnings. (Firefighters union President Frank Ricci offered this comment about the rise in pension costs: “Members pay 11 percent of their pay into their pensions and firefighters are not eligible to collect social security. As well close to 40 percent of our members do not have overtime calculated into their pensions. Any large pensions that you see is the direct result of the previous administration’s willingness to violate the Constitution and Title 7 for political gain. The city has has been working diligently to fill command and leadership since the ruling in the Ricci case, which in
turn will lower pensions and ensure the continuity of command.”) Also, Harp said, keeping Board of Education services at their current levels will cost an estimated $8 million more each year, partly because of expired grants for staff positions considered essential. Because her staff has identified other revenue sources (to be detailed on Tuesday), Harp said, she didn’t have to turn to city taxpayers to cover those rising costs. The total amount of revenue collected from city taxpayers will remain the same in the new proposed budget, she said. New Haven just completed a citywide property revaluation. That means some individual taxpayers’ bills will rise while others fall. Harp said that anyone whose property values rose more than 7 percent will see a higher bill. Anyone whose property values rose less than 7 percent (or fell) will see a smaller bill. Residential property values overall rose 7 percent over the previous year; the grand list (which includes commercial and personal property) rose 8.4 percent. Responding to calls from listeners, Harp said she had not been aware that a proposed but asyet unapproved new boy’s-only charter school had begun recruiting students through the Board of Ed and had a listing on the website; she said the listing has been taken down. Asked about the mayoral candidacy of Marcus Paca, Harp, who’s running for a third term, responded, “Everyone can run for mayor or any other office. That’s what makes this country great.” She said when she ran into Paca at last week’s Board of Ed meeting, “I told him I’d meet him on the campaign trail.”
Law Not Clear Cut On “Sanctuary” Edict by BRIAN SLATTERY NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
New Haven plans to join communities across the country suing the Trump administration if it follows through on a vow to take federal money away from “sanctuary cities” that refuse to help track down and deport undocumented immigrants. In doing so, the city will enter some uncharted legal territory. How strong is New Haven’s legal case? A lot rides on that question. The federal government is sending New Haven $56 million this year. Under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, much of that money may be at stake in the future. Can the federal government just withhold funds from cities? Maybe. The general idea is that the more relevant the funding is to the issue that federal and state or local authorities are arguing about, the more grounds the federal government has for withholding funding. The federal government has withheld funding for highways to get states to impose speed limits. In the 1987 case South Dakota v. Dole, the Supreme Court found that the federal government could withhold highway money to get states to comply with the new national drinking age. This created, as Yale constitutional law expert Akhil Reed Amar put it, a test for how “germane” the funding was to the issue at hand. But there are other questions at stake, according to Amar. “One is: At what point does the federal threat to defund become the proverbial gun to the head of the states and localities? Is it too coercive?” The Constitution, as Yale immigration law expert Michael Wishnie pointed out, does not allow the federal government to use “highly coercive conditions” — that is, withholding funding — to get states to comply with laws. “Most important,” for Amar, however, is that following the Constitution, “whatever strings are attached to funding of state and local efforts by the federal government have to be clear and visible in the statute in advance” out of “respect for states and federalism.” States and cities can’t be subject to a “bait and switch,” in which they take federal funds only to have conditions applied on that money later. “And there’s the separation of powers issue,” Amar added. “Once Congress writes the statute, the president shouldn’t be allowed to rewrite it.” Yet the possibility of withholding federal funds certainly looms as a threat. New Haven gets federal money for a variety of uses. Possibly the most relevant to the argument over sanctuary cities is the Justice Assistance Grant program, through which the federal Department of Justice funds a range of law enforcement programs. though as Amar pointed out, “Trump has been known to change his mind.” And as a declared sanctuary state,
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PAUL BASS PHOTOS Harp
reaffirms “sanctuary city” pledge at recent rally.
Amar: Money strings need to be set in advance.
“Connecticut is already on the chopping block for law enforcement grants,” said Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies for the Center for Immigration Studies. The state has until June 30 to comply. Legal arguments could be made for other sources of federal funding as well, Vaughan pointed out. Community block grants could be withheld in sanctuary cities because sanctuary policies create “places for illegal settlement,” for example. The farther afield the threat of pulling funding goes from law enforcement — which is where the rubber hits the road concerning sanctuary city policies — the harder the federal government will have to work, legally speaking, to justify pulling it. I know New Haven is proud to be a sanctuary city. But just to play devil’s advocate here, why exactly is what sanctuary cities are doing legal in the first place? Don’t states and cities have to follow and enforce federal laws? That’s the gist of the argument against sanctuary cities, which on its face is straightforward. “The supremacy clause of the Constitution says that federal law is the supreme law of the land and it trumps state law to the contrary, and local law. And when it comes to immigration and naturalization, these are topics that the Constitution quite clearly and uncontroversially, for
over 200 years, has given the federal government power over,” Amar said. “The federal government exists to defend our borders, and states and localities are not at liberty to basically try to nullify federal policies.” Vaughan agrees. “Under the Constitution, the federal government has the authority to make immigration decisions and decide who gets to stay,” she said. “It’s unreasonable for state and local governments to try to usurp that authority.” Generally speaking, federal authority supersedes state and local authority — where it’s clearly stated in the law. But that’s where things get complicated. Take a portion of the law officially designated as 8 U.S.C. § 1373, known more informally as Section 1373. It states that “a Federal, State, or local government entity or official may not prohibit, or in any way restrict, any government entity or official from sending to, or receiving from, the Immigration and Naturalization Service information regarding the citizenship or immigration status, lawful or unlawful, of any individual.” An opponent of sanctuary cities can read this section of the code and argue that, by not asking about people’s immigration status, cities violate this part of U.S. law; they’re “restricting” immigration information. A proponent of sanctuary cities can read this same section of law and argue that cities aren’t violating it because the law doesn’t create an obligation for police to actively collect and pass along information. If police just don’t collect the information, then they have nothing to pass along. Simply not knowing about a person’s immigration status is also what allows sanctuary cities to argue that they’re not violating 8 U.S. Code § 1324, which states that any person who “knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that an alien has come to, entered, or remains in the United States in violation of law, conceals, harbors, or shields from detection, or attempts to conceal, harbor, or shield from detection, such alien in any place, including any building or any means of transportation,” faces Con’t on page 3
“A College Straight Out Of A Movie” THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
by STAFF
though we didn’t get much time to tour it. They were able to offer a top-notch journalism department which I enjoyed very much. I also enjoyed their education department.
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
LEAP’s teen counselors are visiting colleges in the South during the February break. Two of them wrote in on their experiences from Day Three: Darius Martin, 17, Highville Charter School, Junior Day 3 saw us slated to visit Valdosta State University. Once we arrived, we were given a warm welcome by the admissions director. She gave us an inside look at what to expect when you become a member of VSU, from what the expectations are to what it means to be a Valdosta State Blazer. We began our tour around the courtyard area, and the scene was very tranquil. I thought that it looked like a college straight out of a movie. As we continued walking, the tour guide rattled off a list of majors the school offered, ranging from education to journalism to business management, which I enjoyed a lot. We walked through
Lauren Darden, 17, Cooperative Arts High School, Junior NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
their student center that offered access to anything the students would need. We concluded the tour in the library and we walked through the two levels it had to offer. It seemed like there was an
endless amount of books on every shelf. Our next tour stop was Florida A&M, aka FAM-U. We were met by a man who was able to describe to us the mindset that Florida
A&M has for its students. We weren’t able to see as much due to the fact that it was raining, but we were able to see most, if not all of the campus. If I had to pick, the college I liked was FAM-U even
Today, we visited Valdosta State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. VSU had a very modern campus, which made it very appealing. The dorms were spacious and the campus was very warm. Also, VSU has a convenient out of state tuition price, approximately $16,000. Hearing this was my favorite fact about their University. If I were to attend FAMU, I feel like I’d have a great social life. There were many activities and clubs, as well as entertainment facilities—such as, a bowling alley. However, there were not enough career opportunities there
Dems Wade Into National Leadership Fight by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
Looking to influence the future course of their party, New Haven’s Democratic Town Committee plans to endorse one of the leading candidates for national chairman in a battle that has revived the conflicting visions of Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton. Nearly 70 of the city’s Democrats, mostly its ward co-chairs, gathered at the Betsy Ross Parish House on Kimberly Avenue in the Hill Monday to debate whom to back in the Democratic National Committee chair fight: U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison of Minnesota, a prominent supporter of Sanders’ presidential primary campaign; or former Obama Labor Secretary Tom Perez, a prominent supporter of Clinton’s quest. The DNC’s election for chairman is expected to be held any time between Thursday and Monday during its winter meeting. In New Haven, the debate Monday night turned on who can bring Obama voters who voted for Republican President
MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO
Bassani pushes Perez; Winfield backs Ellison.
Donald Trump back into the fold, and unite the party’s progressive and establishment factions. The New Haven Democratic Town Committee’s (DTC) platform committee recommended weighing in on the national fight as the party decides how to rebuild from its devastating November defeats. At the parish house Monday night, members began voting on a recommendation to send to the seven Connecticut DNC members who will cast ballots.
As the state’s largest party committee with the most respected vote-pulling apparatus, the DTC is listened to by Connecticut politicians. Though other Democrats are vying for the position of party chairman, Ellison and Perez are seen as frontrunners. The men represent two factions battling for the soul of the party. Perez is backed by establishment Democrats like former Vice President Joe Biden and former Attorney General Eric
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Holder; Ellison has the support of the progressive wing of the party represented by U.S. Sens. Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. President Obama has declined to make an endorsement in the contest though it is widely believed that he favors Perez. Twenty New Haven DTC members voted in support of Ellison at Monday night’s meeting. The other 40 DTC members have until 4 p.m. Thursday to email in their choices before the DTC formally goes on record with its choice. Connecticut holds seven of the 447 votes that will decide the next DNC chairman. Two of those votes are already committed: Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is supporting Perez; Connecticut Democratic State Party Chairman Nick Balletto is backing Ellison. The next chairman needs a simple majority of 224 votes to win. The five other top state Democrats who will help decide who the next national party chairman are: Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman; state party vice chair, Dita Bhargava; Joanne Sullivan, National Federation of
Democratic Women chair; former state party chair Nancy DiNardo; and John Olsen, former AFL-CIO Connecticut head. New Haven DTC Chairman Vinnie Mauro Jr. said that with five more votes still up for grabs, this is an opportune time for New Haven—a big blue dot in a little blue state that turned out 34,577 votes for Hillary Clinton—to weigh in on the national leadership and ultimately the direction of the party. Mauro said it’s the first time that the DTC has attempted to have such influence on the national party. Ellison, who is known for his grassroots organizing, was the heavy favorite, at least in New Haven. His name was on the lips of many who spoke Monday, including State Sen. Gary Winfield, and the majority of the platform committee. (Maria Elena Durazo, the current DNC vice chair, was also supported by the Ellison camp in New Haven for her efforts at turning states like California and Nevada blue in 2016.) Winfield, who supported Sanders
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
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Election Commission Rules Against Smart by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
The State Elections Enforcement Commission has ruled that the city clerk’s reasons for suspending his deputy clerk are unfounded. Last May, City Clerk Michael Smart suspended his deputy, Sally Brown, after alleging that she had violated state law by preparing the absentee ballots for the 2016 presidential election, falsely certifying nominating petitions in 2014 and 2015, and certifying absentee ballots for the 2014 primary. All of which Smart claimed Brown had no authority to do. He filed a complaint with the SEEC, which agreed to investigate. Brown maintained that she had done nothing wrong. In a Feb. 15 report, the election commission
Smart, Brown.
agreed with her. Read the full report, with details of the allegations and Brown’s defenses, here. The commission wrote that Brown’s longstanding position in the Clerk’s office serving as the
part-time elected clerk in 1986, and then being made the full-time deputy clerk — rendered her authorized to complete the tasks: “[I]n the course of her service over the decades, Ms. Brown was charged with assisting
in the administration of that office’s duties and responsibilities pertaining to elections based on her employment with the City of New Haven.” The commission further concluded that Smart’s allegations were “not supported by fact,” and that Brown “did not violate Election Laws as alleged and therefor this matter is dismissed.” “Ms. Brown as New Haven Deputy CityTown Clerk did not violate Election Laws as alleged and therefore this matter is dismissed,” SEEC Vice-Chairman Salvatore A. Bramante wrote in the decision. “Sally’s going to get a letter to return to work,” Smart said Friday. “There will be a disciplinary hearing to answer the charges.”
More Cops On Foot? Or In Cars? by THOMAS BREEN
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
Sometimes, Sgt. Sean Maher told Wooster Square and downtown neighbors, they may need to choose between more walking cops and more traffic cops. Maher made the observation while reoprting good news and then getting some pushback in response at Tuesday evening’s monthly Downtown Wooster Square Community Management team meeting at City Hall. The sergeant, the district’s top cop, and several of his officers updated two dozen community members present on the progress they have made using fewer resources to achieve greater motor vehicle enforcement, including over 300 traffic stops in downtown over the last month. He also announced that four out of six district officers per shift have now been assigned to walking beats. Walking beats have been a popular cornerstone of New Haven’s community policing strategy. Maher and his predecessor also heard a lot at these management team meetings about the desire to crack down on speeding, reckless drivers. They also have heard a lot about the desire for walking beats to connect with people and help them feel safe while solving quality-of-life problems. Sometimes, Maher noted, the department has limited resources to accomplish both goals. Sometimes there’s a trade off. “When we have radio cars out doing motor vehicle enforcement, that pulls
Anderson (center) pushes for more motor vehicle enforcement.
THOMAS BREEN PHOTO
Maher: We have limited resources.
from walking beats,” said Maher. “I’ve come to many community meetings where the stress is for walking beats, and I believe in the walking
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beats. But walking beats cannot safely do motor vehicle enforcement. It’s an ebb and flow of service, and this needs to be a discussion that we have as to
where we prefer the service to be.” Neighborhood activist Ed Anderson kicked off one strand of that conversation when he asked for an update on the car crash that killed a pedestrian at the corner of South Frontage Road and York Street earlier this year. “There haven’t been any charges pressed in regards to the vehicular homicide that happened a couple weeks ago,” Anderson said, quizzing Maher on when the public would know the results of the police department’s pending investigation into the accident. “Because of past experiences with issues like this, we’re pretty cynical around here about the driver being held responsible.” Maher and his officers explained that Con’t on page 14
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Good Cop, Bad Cop Bills Protect, Punish by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
Hartford — Should the state get tougher on rogue cops? Or on people who hate cops? State legislators took up those questions Tuesday, with key players from New Haven on both sides. These thorny questions put New Haveners on both sides of these issues Tuesday during public hearings held by the state legislature’s Public Safety and Security and Labor and Public Employees Committees. The committees held public hearings proposals to immediately suspend cops without pay if they’re accused of wrongdoing; to take away their jobs and pensions if they’re convicted of a crime; or to create a new hate crime category to include bias acts against police officers. Democratic New Haven State Rep. Robyn Porter found herself pushing back against special protections for police officers and other public safety personnel, while simultaneously pushing for the tougher measures for cops accused and ultimately convicted of crimes. On the defense was New Haven’s police union, pushing back against two tough-on-cops bills, including one sponsored by Porter, citing its own strict departmental guidelines and the state’s already existing investigative process. Bad Cop Porter is the sponsor of House Bill 6663, which she said would increase accountability for officers and provide consequences for those who use excessive force. State Rep. Josh Elliot of Hamden is a co-sponsor. The bill would require that an officer who has used excessive force to be immediately suspended without pay. And an officer who ultimately is convicted, pleads guilty, or no contest to a crime, would be automatically terminated. Another bill, House Bill 6662, that was heard by the Labor Committee along with Porter’s bill, is sponsored by State Rep. Minnie Gonzalez of Hartford. It would revoke the pension of an officer who is convicted of a crime. The bills grew out of the legislature’s Black and Hispanic Caucus’s general concern over incidents of excessive force, and in particular, over a recent case where a now-former Hartford police sergeant was video-recorded kicking a handcuffed man. During the investigation of the incident the officer was allowed to retire and draw his annual pension of $129,977. When she learned that an officer could retire with six figures under the cloud of an investigation that includes
MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO Fire
union’s Frank Ricci with cop union’s Miller at Capitol.
Porter: Hit rogue cops in the pension pocket.
as evidence a video of him kicking someone, Gonzalez concluded that she was in the wrong business. “Police officers are not above the law,” she said. “We’re not taking anything away from the ones who respect the law.” Porter said she believes that good cops should have no problems with either her or Gonzalez’s bills. She said rogue actors exist in every profession, including the profession of policing. She said the only way to often get the attention of such people is to “hit them in the pocket.” “It’s unfortunate that we have to do that,” she said. “But to whom much power is given, much is required. And we have to have a higher level of accountability for those who abuse their power.” ACLU of Connecticut Executive Director David McGuire testified in support of both Gonzalez’s and Porter’s bills. He argued that other accountability measures passed in the
last few years simply haven’t deterred bad cops. He pointed to a body camera bill that set aside $10 million to help outfit departments with the technology. Less than a million of those dollars have been used, McGuire said. The state has a law on the books that grew out of the prosecution and conviction of former Gov. John Rowland that allows for the revocation or reduction of public officials, state or municipal employees pensions if they are convicted of a crime but it does not apply to police officers, McGuire said. He also said there is no regulatory authority that revokes the license of a police officer — to which New Haven Police Union attorney Marshall Segar cried, “Foul!” Segar said the Police Officer Standards and Training Council, also known as POST, maintains a list of decertified police officers who have had their certifications cancelled or revoked after they had been convicted of a crime.
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“It’s difficult for us to testify against Rep. Porter’s bill because it’s going to be made into ‘We condone police misconduct,’” he said. But Segar said that is far from the truth for not just New Haven police officers but for police officers statewide. That said, the union finds the proposed language of Porter’s bill, problematic. Segar said there is a process in place in the state to investigate incidents of misconduct. He said that process should take its course before someone is suspended without pay and terminated. He also said the Rowland law that McGuire referenced outlines the circumstances and the crimes under which a pension can be revoked, and Gonzalez’s bill is not consistent with that statute. (Read this legislative research report that details the structure of the current law.) New Haven Police Union President Craig Miller showed up to testify against the bills. He argued that through collective bargaining, which was a hot topic in the Labor Committee Tuesday, the Board of Police Commissioners has the right to revoke or reduce the pension of an officer who is convicted, pleads guilty or no contest to the crime of fraud, or commits and act of dishonesty. GOP lawmakers are the main backers behind a bill that would add public safety personnel to a law that already makes it a crime to intimidate or harass a person because of race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. House Minority Leader State Rep. Themis Klarides of Seymour testified Tuesday that House Bill 6258 responds to recent incidents of public safety
personnel, particularly police officers, being targeted because of their job. Though overall killings of police officers nationwide are down, there were 21 ambush killings of officers in 2016, according to data from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Hartford Police Union President Sgt. John Szewczyk testified before the Public Safety Committee Tuesday in favor of the bill. He said it would send a positive message to police officers that the state will not tolerate police officers being targets of hate. He also said that it would be a positive recruiting message to would-be officers. “It’s a difficult atmosphere, certainly,” he said of recruitment. Szewczyk said that his general belief is that most people are supportive of the police, and that there is a small element that is anti-police. “It’s difficult, but we serve a great community. This would send a message to that small element.” State Rep. Porter said she is getting a different message from people she talked to about the bill, including New Haven Interim Chief Anthony Campbell, along with firefighters, who also would be protected under the bill, and other police officers. She said she’s hearing that people consider the bill overkill. “This is a bad bill which will disproportionately impact communities of color that are already over-policed and under protected,” she wrote in testimony she had read into the record. (Porter was tied up in a Labor Committee meeting that was debating whether to gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 at the time of the public safety hearing.) Porter shared concerns identified to her by officers of color with whom she spoke. They suggested that the bill could lead to an increase in racial profiling and voter suppression. A person who is arrested and convicted under this proposed law could face from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony, which can carry up to 10 years imprisonment, and a fine of up to $10,000. She said the law is also unnecessary because there are already laws that enhance penalties for assaulting public safety employees. Felony convictions can cost you the right to vote. “Being a police officer, firefighter or emergency medical technician is not an innate part of a person’s identity,” she wrote. “People are not born public safety employees; people choose these professions and in doing so, they willingly agree to take on the heightened risks that come with these jobs.”
New ESUMS Opens Its “Clabs” THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
by LUCY GELLMAN
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
Mold was spotted growing in New Haven’s newest $85.5 million school building and that was by design. Encased in plastic, the mold was growing in a “clab” a combination classroom- lab on the University of New Haven (UNH) campus. Middle and high schoolers are growing the mold as part of training to become engineers, mathematicians, architects and documentarians of the future. Tuesday morning, the clab was one of the new features on display at a ribbon cutting ceremony and whirlwind tour of the new home for New Haven’s Engineering and Science University Magnet School (ESUMS) on the UNH campus. As the 41st project proposed and completed under the New Haven School Construction Program, the 122,000 square=foot building houses 616 sixth through 12th graders in its five stories. Designed by Svigals + Partners architects, the school sticks with its STEAM focus (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) from the moment one steps inside, busts of scientists and tech-trailblazers mounted alongside a main staircase. Tuesday marked the second day of classes officially in the new building, with students scurrying about as soon as the ribbon-cutting had ended. After years of searching for a suitable location, moving students to swing spaces, feuding with West Haven residents, fighting an eminent domain claim, asking New Haven’s Board of Alders for more money and finally breaking ground in 2014, ESUMS Principal Medria Blue-Ellis said she found it a little surreal to have finally made it to the ribbon=cutting. With this year’s academic theme set as “Going for the Gold” in both schoolwide academics and statewide science and engineering competitions, she said that the new building feels particularly timely. “It’s finally here,” she said. “It’s been a long time coming. I’m so happy to match the standard of excellence that we have in the classroom ... a space where our hearts and minds can achieve everything we desire.” “You, students, you deserve it,” she said, addressing the class of 2017, who had gathered to watch the ribbon cutting. “We here are showing what public education could be like.” Surrounded by larger-than-life plaster casts of John Fitch, Edward Bouchet, Emma Baker and Grace Hopper, New Haven Mayor Toni Harp agreed. “This school will help education
Current (center), former (right) mayor help cut the ribbon.
Figueroa with Harp.
materialize in the young people that we see today,” she said. “This is an exceptional project. Now we have a public school building on a private campus. It’s an entirely new collaborative approach to public education.” “When I was in high school, I hadn’t even heard of robotics,” she added to laughs. “Think about how far we have come. It is in the best collective interest to do so for the future. As I become an older and older woman, I realize that everything we do is for the future.” Some of the robotic-friendly future of which she spoke waited in the classrooms above. While the first floor of the new ESUMS is mostly “back of house” operations—a band room, small gym that stills smells of fresh rubber and paint, and “ground control” center for the school’s operating system—the second, third, fourth and fifth floors sport neat rows
Then there are what Svigals + Partners’s Jay Brotman pointed to as decisions meant to put the STEAM focus front and center. Clabs on both sides of the building have cantilevered wings, so students working inside them can look out onto the shape a cantilever is a long beam and “think about going out into the world” as future engineers, mathematicians, scientists, and architects. The south side of the building has louvered blinds, intended to prevent solar heat gain in the warmer months. A high-tech architecture lab is intended to mimic a maker-space in the professional world. Past a still-empty engineering shop —
of purple lockers and classrooms designed with their STEAM-heavy purposes in mind. To mix students up, no floor is dedicated to a single grade. The third floor houses sixth and seventh graders, while the fourth comprises half middle schoolers and half high schoolers. In a clab overlooking Boston Post Road, one finds all sorts of good biochemistry juju and sleek engineering equipment with a twist. A pristine classroom full of computers leads to a lab flooded with natural light, where the teaching method specific to ESUMS can kick in. There are the usual suspects: plasticwrapped mold stains ready for study, schematics of cells in different stages of mitosis and myosis, an emergency station where students can flush out their eyes after an experiment gone wrong. A few microscopes peek out to wink at the brand new, green-edged lab goggles above them.
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ESUMS staff said they are just waiting on equipment — science and engineering teacher Hunter Smith was tending to last-minute tweaks to his high-tech haven. He made sure computer-animated design (CAD) programs were up and running for the classrooms new mac computers—and two refrigerator-sized 3D printers in the corner. One hallway down, students were putting another feature of the new building into practice: glass partitions between classrooms and the hallway, which teachers can open up when they want to allow students to work on cushy chairs and couches in the hallways, widened at the ends specifically for that purpose. “I love all the resources—it really is state of the art,” said graduating senior Alexcina Figueroa, who said she did not think she’d be in the new building before her graduation later this year. “I think it gives me a sense of home,” she said, taking a break from filming the ribbon cutting for Blue-Ellis. “It’s also a big driver of motivation. When we were in a swing space, it wasn’t the same.” Figueroa said ESUMS prepared her for the next chapter, during which she’ll pursue filmmaking in L.A. That was also the case for fellow student Nylie Saffian, who will study business, new media and marketing at the Rochester Institute of Technology after graduating this year. “It feels real,” she said. “Now that we have a real school, it hits us that we are graduating.”
The Hamden Arts Commission presents the next show in its 2016-2017 Saturday Afternoon Family Entertainment Series:
On March 4, we will feature The Carnival Trio as they demonstrate the steel drums and share stories about the Caribbean culture as well as the origins of steel drum music and how the drums are constructed from recycled materials. Their show, “Caribbean Carnival”, is a highly interactive program that will have audience members swinging and swaying to the music of the islands. All Saturday programs are held in the handicapped accessible Thornton Wilder Hall in the Miller Cultural Complex, 2901 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden. “Caribbean Carnival” begins at 1:00pm. Tickets are available at the door only / cash only. $2 children, $3 Adults. For details: www.hamdenartscommission.org (203) 287-2546.
Caucus Shines Light On HBCUs THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
With drums, high kicks and alumni, the Black and Hispanic Caucus saluted historically black colleges and universities at its annual Black History Month program. More than 60 people packed the Hall of Records at 200 Orange St. Friday evening for a taste of the sights and sounds of HBCU life while learning about the history and present day work of schools that were founded, starting in the late 1830s, to educate free and recently-free black men and women so that they would be prepared to teach and lead their people. There was the mother and son duo, and Tuskeegee University alums, Pamela Washington and her son Avery, who regaled the crowd with trivia about their alma mater including the fact that it was founded by Booker T. Washington, a Hampton Institute (now Hampton University) graduate. The university, which is located in Tuskeegee, Ala., also was home to the famed Tuskegee Airmen and produced the first African-American to become a four star general in the Air Force, Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. “When you hear the name Tuskeegee, the name speaks volumes,” Thompson-Washington said. Tthat could be said as well for the many other HBCUs represented at the event, including Bennett College, Elizabeth City State University, Hampton University, Howard University, North Carolina Central University, Morgan State University, Spelman College, Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Johnson C. Smith University. Dixwell Alder Jeanette Morrison, a Morgan State grad, said when she graduated from Hillhouse High and went off to college in Baltimore she thought she could get by with some of the lax study habits that got her through high school. A professor disabused her of that belief quickly when he handed her back an assignment with an “F” on it. She said it was the first failing grade she’d ever received. That’s the moment she said she realized that it might not have been that hard to get into Morgan State, but she was going to have to work
Spelmanite Maya Welfare with mom Harriet, an Elizabeth City State University alumna.
know that a degree from an HBCU would hold up wherever it takes them. And as evidenced by the many professionals in the room which included educators, social workers, attorneys, and journalists, many of whom had gone on to obtain advanced degrees too, such a degree could take them far. “Your education is not second rate,” he told the crowd. Mayor Toni Harp said the television show “A Different World,” which ran on NBC from 1987 to 1993, influenced her eldest daughter’s decision to attend Spelman College, even though she got into a number of the Ivies including Yale University. The series was filmed on that school’s campus in Atlanta. Harp, a then nervous mom preparing to send her first born thousands of miles away for school, would find out that her daughter was going to be prepared for a bright future. She remembered Spelman President Johnnetta Cole saying, “Your
daughter is bad. Every girl who attends this school is bad.” “And what she meant by that is that every girl at Spelman was a high functioning young woman,” Harp told the crowd. Her second daughter followed in her big sister’s footsteps, and they both went on to become obstetrician/gynecologists. Harp’s son would go on to complete law school at Howard University and graduate fifth in his class, which made him sought after when he was applying for jobs. Harp said she knows that the peers of her children who took the Ivy League route found that they didn’t get the kind of supports for success that her daughters and son got. “HBCUs prepare young people to take the next step,” Harp said. “And they support you all the way. At an HBCU you’ll get a fantastic education and you’ll have the time of your life.”
Con’t from page 14
More Cops On Foot? Or In Cars?
Husband and wife team Sharpe and Phoenix represented for FAMU.
MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO
Nation Drill and Drum Team provide the HBCU sound.
hard if she wanted to get out. Morrison not only graduated; that work ethic prepared her to get in and out of graduate school at Boston University. City Deputy Corporation Counsel Cherie Phoenix said she was attracted to FAMU because of its
well-respected, five-year MBA program. The rigors of that program prepared her for law school, she said. Her husband, Shadeed Sharpe, completed his degree at FAMU in broadcast journalism and now works at ESPN. He let the crowd
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these investigations take time, and that the department had not yet made public its report. But he relayed that the police’s traffic unit is currently in the middle of a two-week study of the intersection to better understand trends in vehicular crimes at that location. “Lt. [Rob] Criscuolo is overseeing the whole project, which involves both our daytime and evening squads,” Maher said. “This study will help us see if there’s something we can do to make this intersection safer.” The conversation then shifted towards a broader discussion of how best to mitigate dangerous speeding on city side streets, as Alder Richard Furlow shared his latest efforts to petition the city and the state to decrease city speed limits. “If you look at the speed limits in New Haven, one of the things that we need more of is police enforcement,” said Furlow, who represents parts of the Whalley-Edgewood-Beaver Hills neighborhoods. “We need to do a whole ‘Slow Down, New Haven’ campaign, because it’s outrageous how fast cars are driving. If the speed limit was dropped to 20 miles per hour on our secondary streets, that means that, if you’re doing 30 miles per hour, now you have to be stopped by the police because you’re 10 over the limit. I think that’s a good
place to start.” Furlow is looking to hold a public hearing next month on lowering city speed limits. He encouraged Maher to focus on protecting New Haven pedestrians from the dangers of vehicles speeding through city side streets. Which brought the conversation back to the issues of traffic safety, public resources, and police priorities. Anderson questioned Maher on the wisdom of devoting resources to educating pedestrians on how to cross the road safely instead of focusing all police traffic efforts on stopping and ticketing offending drivers. Maher reiterated that cops dedicated to walking beats cannot necessarily work on motor vehicle enforcement at the same time. And so the community as a whole has to decide how much of a priority they want the police to place on each issue. “One of the downsides of more walking beats is less motor vehicle enforcement because we have fewer cars on the road,” Maher said. “If there’s a consensus from the community that we’d rather pull walking beats to cars to do more motor vehicle enforcement, that’s a discussion we can have. But the consensus I’ve seen from all of the meetings I’ve been to is to push for walking beats.”
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Looking for a New Educational Opportunity for Your Child? ACES Open Choice Can Help ACES Open Choice Program
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Call Him Sen. Relentless THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
by THOMAS BREEN
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal promised his base at a spirited town hall meeting that he will not just vote against Donald Trump, but make some trouble. “I will do everything I can in terms of legal action outside of the Senate as well as being relentless within the Senate to stop and to resist any infringement on the power of the courts,” he said. “We can talk about alternative facts. But nobody is above the law.” The Connecticut Democratic senator offered that defiant message and tone Saturday afternoon during the town hall meeting, held in the Wilbur Cross High School auditorium in East Rock. In front of an audience of several hundred Connecticut residents, Blumenthal promised again and again to be relentless in defending the Affordable Care Act and women’s reproductive rights; relentless in preserving Social Security and Medicare; relentless in resisting the Trump administration’s many lies, conflicts of interest, and potential threats to American democracy. The crowd, pressing the senator over the fate of Obamacare to the nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the presidential administration’s cozy relationship with Russia, roared with
approval at each commitment to legal and political resistance. The town hall came on the heels of a rally in support of the Affordable Care Act that was held earlier in the afternoon on the Green. Both events coincided with similar protests and legislator conversations that took place in over 100 cities around the country on Saturday as part of a national day of activism in support of Obamacare, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Spurred by calls to action from Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and New York Sen. Chuck Schumer, the rallies and town halls are an attempt by the Democratic base to reclaim some of the populist energy and anger that had animated the Tea Party’s successful rise to power nearly a decade ago. New Haven Mayor Toni Harp began the meeting with an urgent denunciation of President Trump’s efforts to dismantle Obamacare, bar immigrants ostensibly for reasons of religion and national origin, and distract the nation with frequent reminders of his Electoral College victory in November. “Today, ideals that I have long associated with the United States are in grave peril,” Harp said. “And I use that phrase knowingly. This is not a drill. Today there are threats to liberties, protections, and opportunities that we were accustomed to just a few short
THOMAS BREEN PHOTOS
Blumenthal at Cross Saturday.
months ago. Today, a way of life is threatened for so many residents of this nation.” “I Will Use The Filibuster” The two dozen questions that the senator subsequently answered over the course of the hour-and-a-
half town hall reflected that sense of urgency, desperation, and oppositional commitment. New Haven resident David Goldstein approached the microphone to ask Blumenthal about the Supreme Court. “I know that you saying that you’re not going to support Judge Gorsuch is not the same as you saying that you will help filibuster him,” he said to the senator. “And to be honest, Mitch McConnell is counting on you and fellow senators like Chris Koons in Delaware and Dick Durbin in Illinois to not filibuster. That’s why he blocked Judge Garland, because he thought that you would not repay in kind. You talk about the tools available to you. The filibuster is available to you and to other Democratic senators.” Blumenthal paused between bursts of applause, and then offered a response. “Let me just clarify,” he said. “I will use the filibuster. I will use every tool at our disposal to fight a nominee who will change the balance of power on the court, and who is out of the mainstream.” “I haven’t taken a public position on Gorsuch,” Blumenthal added, “but remember, the president who nominated him established a set of litmus tests: the nominee has to be prolife, very pro-Second Amendment, and of a conservative bent. Judge Gorsuch has an obligation to answer those
DANIEL FITZMAURICE APPOINTED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OF THE ARTS COUNCIL OF GREATER NEW HAVEN New Haven, CT – Eileen O’Donnell, President of the Arts Council of Greater New Haven Board of Directors, announces the appointment of Daniel Fitzmaurice as their next Executive Director effective March 13, 2017. Mr. Fitzmaurice comes to the Arts Council from neighboring arts organization Creative Arts Workshop where he has served as Executive Director since 2015. Under his leadership, Creative Arts Workshop has expanded its visibility, programs, and fiscal stability. Prior to this, he was the Managing Director of the Elm Shakespeare Company. “We are thrilled to welcome Daniel to the Arts Council during
Photo credit to Katrina Goldburn. Creative Arts Workshop is a non-profit community art center devoted to fostering creativity through participation in and appreciation of the visual arts, serving the Greater New Haven area and beyond since 1961. The Workshop is a premiere community resource center for the visual arts offering a wide range of classes to students of all ages in fully equipped studios. CAW is supported in part by the Department of Economic and Community Development/Connecticut Office of the Arts, NewAlliance Foundation, and the Arts Fund of The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.
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this important transition,” said Ms. O’Donnell. “As an arts leader, collaborator, and innovator, he is exactly what our regional arts and cultural sector of the 21st century needs.” Creative Arts Workshop plans a period of professional interim leadership before launching the search for its next executive director. Mr. Fitzmaurice also teaches arts management courses at Albertus Magnus College and hosts Artbeat on New Haven Independent’s WNHH radio station. He received a Bachelor of Music in education and piano from Temple University, and he and his family live in Orange, CT.
questions, and if he doesn’t, we have to assume that he passes the Trump litmus test. And if that’s the case, I would use the filibuster. I would use every tool at my disposal.” Shifting the conversation from domestic to foreign policy, Maggie Quinn from Bethany took the microphone to ask a different question: about Russia, Rex Tillerson, and economic interests abroad. “I’m concerned about our new Secretary of State and his involvement with oil interests in Russia and the potential for the reduction of sanctions on Russia as a result,” she said. “What can we do and what will you do to help retain sanctions on our most dangerous enemy?” “What I proposed in the wake of the disclosures about the Russians’ attack on our democratic institutions is that there be heightened sanctions,” Blumenthal replied. “I want Rex Tillerson to come testify before the United States Senate. This is not something that he should do out of beneficence or graciousness. It’s his job. We might not be here today but for what the Russians did in the months leading up to the elections. We have real economic leverage here, and we ought to impose those sanctions.” Over the course of the afternoon, Blumenthal returned time and again to his previous experience as Connecticut’s attorney general, citing battles waged against Big Tobacco and GM as evidence of his willingness to protect the basic rights and health of his constituents. He also referenced his clerkship in the mid-1970s under Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun, who wrote the final decision in Roe v. Wade, as an important influence on his understanding of the necessity to protect women’s constitutional rights to safe and legal abortions, even in the face of vitriolic opposition. (He didn’t mention his service as an aide to President Richard Nixon.) But ultimately, as important as the specific issues under discussion Saturday afternoon was the audience’s demand that the senator approach this presidency with the utmost determination to resist. “We are in the fight of our lives,” he replied. “I am in the fight of my life because I am fighting for your life. I need your help and your support so that I can fight tooth and nail to make sure that we keep the Affordable Care Act. That we preserve Social Security and Medicare. That we fight to preserve a free press and an independent judiciary.”
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017 Con’t from page 3
Law Not Clear Cut On “Sanctuary” Edict
penalties under the law. Opponents of sanctuary cities argue that sanctuary cities are violating this law. Proponents argue that if someone — say, a police officer or a city official — doesn’t know a person’s immigration status, then the law doesn’t apply. Again, playing devil’s advocate, this sounds a little bit like a loophole for proponents of sanctuary cities. Maybe it is. But proponents of sanctuary cities would argue that it falls under the 10th Amendment, which states, in beautifully sweeping terms but with a maddening lack of detail, that “the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.” There’s no real question that immigration policy is and should be the province of the federal government, for lots of obvious reasons. But traditionally, law enforcement issues, for better and for worse, have been left more up to states and cities. Sanctuary city policies create a lot of friction between these two positions. But a clear federal law trumps state and local law. Right. So could Congress just pass a law requiring local authorities to collect immigration information? Theoretically, yes. Congress could pass a statute saying “from now on, if you want to get money from the federal government, cooperative federalism block grant money, here’s what it means to be cooperative” — and impose conditions like requiring law enforcement to more actively help the feds enforce immigration law, Amar said. But because such a statute involves infringing on states’ rights, which conservatives generally support, it could be a tough political battle, even in the current political climate. Which is why, at least right now, the Trump administration’s angle is more about withholding federal funding than about changing the law. Even the threat of withholding funding turned out to be enough for Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez to back down. But Vaughan doesn’t think such coercion would work on the “diehard” cities. “That may take litigation,” she said — litigation that, with San Francisco’s Jan. 25 filing contesting Trump’s executive order, has now potentially already begun. What are the chances that the sanctuary cities could lose their lawsuits against the federal government? And what could the consequences be? A case between the federal government and a municipality over sanctuary city policies could make its way to the Supreme Court. If the federal government prevails, it could be “game over,” as Vaughan said, for sanctuary cities.
In favor of sanctuary cities is the anti-commandeering principle the judicial opinions against the federal government using “highly coercive conditions,” as Wishnie put it, to force state compliance. This principle has a long history. In the 1842 case of Prigg v. Pennsylvania, the Supreme Court struck down state-level laws that prohibited extraditing slaves to other states, arguing that those laws violated the federal Fugitive Slave Act of 1793. However, in the court’s opinion, this did not mean that Pennsylvania had to actively enforce the Fugitive Slave Act that is, round up escaped slaves. The Fugitive Slave Act was a federal law, and therefore the federal government’s responsibility to enforce it. The states could not be “compelled to enforce” it. The Court upheld the principle in three more recent cases. In New York v. United States (1992), Justice Sandra Day O’Connor wrote in that case’s majority opinion that, “as an initial matter, Congress may not simply ‘commandee[r] the legislative processes of the States by directly compelling them to enact and enforce a federal regulatory program.’” Citing the 1992 case, Justice Antonin Scalia’s majority opinion in Printz v. United States (1997) held that the Brady Bill had gone too far in making state and local law enforcement conduct background checks for guns. “Congress cannot compel the States to enact or enforce a federal regulatory program,” Scalia wrote. Then he went a step further “today we hold that Congress cannot circumvent that prohibition by conscripting the States’ officers directly” expanding state protections under the 10th Amendment. In Independent Business v. Sebelius (2012), Justice Roberts used the same principle to strike down parts of the Affordable Care Act. But it’s possible that the anticommandeering argument won’t hold up in this case. As Amar pointed out, “Printz is a 5-to-4 decision,” and “many of the people who were in the five are not on the court anymore.” The court could decide that the principle doesn’t apply on national security grounds. On whatever ground the court’s decision rests, a strong decision against sanctuary cities could, in effect, provide the clarity in the law that effectively puts an end to state and local policies that create sanctuary cities. So what happens now? Between the complicated legal situation that sanctuary cities have always been in, and the fact that these are days in which precedents seem a little more prone to be broken than usual? It’s anyone’s guess.
How the Black Press Played Vital Role in “Hidden Figures”
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Contributor In her book, “Hidden Figures,” author Margot Lee Shetterly pays homage to the African-American women who worked as human computers in the space program. It’s a book that’s spawned an Academy Award-nominated movie and has brought to the fore the accomplishments of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, the brilliant Black women who worked at NASA serving as the brains behind America’s nascent space program starting in the 1950s. Inside the book, Shetterly also pays homage to where she first got the notion to write such a historical masterpiece. “In the first week of May 1942, the ‘Norfolk Journal and Guide’ published an article that would…be like a signpost for the road not taken,” Shetterly said. She even recalled the headline that accompanied the piece in one of the nation’s oldest African-Americanowned newspapers. “Paving the Way for Women Engineers,” the headline blared. An accompanying photo revealed 11 immaculately dressed Black women in front of Hampton Institute’s Bemis Laboratory, graduates of Engineering for Women, a war training class. “‘The Journal and Guide’ and the ‘Pittsburgh Courier,’ two of the granddaddies of the Black Press, are mentioned prominently inside the hard cover copies of the book with a picture that dates back to the 1940s,” said Brenda Andrews, president, publisher and owner of “The New Journal and Guide.” The Journal and Guide published its first issues in 1900 and, during the World War II, by many accounts,
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was the largest Black employer in the South, according to Andrews. Its circulation topped 100,000 and Andrews said the newspaper joined others like the “Chicago Defender,” the “Baltimore Afro-American” and the “Pittsburgh Courier” in taking the lead in writing about Black interests and recording African-American history. “We were hidden figures ourselves until about the 1960s,” Andrews said of the Black Press in America, which this year celebrates 190 years in operation. “This story and how the author researched ‘Hidden Figures’ is an example of what the Black Press has been doing, which is recording Black history.” Andrews continued: “When I speak with people, even today in the 21st century, people are curious about the Black Press’ role. We were in the shadows in our community, doing the work, recording information.” Andrews said the Black Press wasn’t formerly recognized for its great journalism, seen mostly as underground activists. “Even today, we’re not properly recognized for recording that history. We were hidden in Black areas among Black people,” she said. “It came about that World War II was significant, because it was our activism that stories of segregated troops were told.” During World War II, the Black Press led the call for a “Double V” victory against fascism abroad and against Jim Crow in the United States. Reportedly, with such a slogan, many historians regarded this campaign as the groundwork for the Black activism that characterized the Civil Rights Movement. Black newspapers, led by the “Norfolk Journal and Guide,” the “Chicago Defender,” the “Pittsburgh
Courier” and the “AFRO,” took a conservative effort and channeled Black militancy into nationalistic ends. They sought government concessions and they looked to create a homogenous American identity that included Black citizens to resolve struggles for full citizenship, freedom, and racial justice. During World War II, the Journal and Guide reported regularly on soldiers serving overseas. The newspaper even sent correspondents into battle to report on heroism that rarely made the front pages of the mainstream papers. Embedded writers and photographers sent stories back home of patriotic service including reports from the U.S.S. Mason, one of only two U.S. Navy ships with an African-American crew. “It wasn’t until the 1960s and segregation [reform efforts] and the civil rights that Black newspapers came out of hiding,” Andrews said. Andrews added: “But, if it had not been for the Black Press in World War II telling our stories, much would have gone unknown. It’s very redeeming that our mission is recognized now.” With the success of the book and movie for “Hidden Figures,” Andrews believes history will continue to tell the glowing story of the Black Press. She said the current atmosphere makes it quite difficult to appreciate now, but it’s her hope that in the future, when individuals reflect, they will know that the Black Press did its job and well. “That’s why it’s important to tell our own stories and refuse to let others portray who we are,” said Andrews. “The Black Press isn’t just about news stories, we’re recording our history as only we can.”
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Library, Going Strong, Turns 130
exhortation to “keep reading.” Library Board President Michael Morand noted that the library system has grown to four branches and a 24-hour electronic service, plus a bookmobile. In this digital age it remains New Haven’s “single-most visited cultural institution,” with 600,000 annual visits, he said. A new home for Dixwell’s Stetson branch is planned as part of the Q house project. In addition to those original periodicals, the library nowadays circulates books, recordings, e-books, movies ... and, at least for one day, dessert.
by PAUL BASS
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
For a 130 year-old, New Haven’s public library is going strong, with a seemingly bright future ahead. City Librarian Martha Brogan marked the occasion at the downtown main Ives branch by serving cake Tuesday at around 1 p.m. to library supporters and patrons, timed to coincide with the hour when founders first opened a rented space a block away to circulate newspapers and magazines. Before cutting the cake, Brogan read a proclamation from Mayor Toni Harp, which ended with an
PAUL BASS PHOTO
City Chief Administrative Officer Mike Carter and Brogan at the celebration.
Paca To Challenge Mayor by STAFF
NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
Marcus Paca, who served as Mayor Toni Harp’s labor relations chief, is now running against her. Paca set up this campaign website and announced his intention to seek this year’s Democratic nomination in this New Haven Register op-ed article. Harp has begun holding fundraisers for a reelection campaign and said she is running but has not yet formally announced her candidacy. Paca last ran for office in 2011, when he lost the 24th Ward alder seat that he had held for a term as a member
Paca at a recent rally in support of Assistant Chief Casanova.
PAUL BASS PHOTO
of a slate allied with then-Mayor John DeStefano. Mayor Harp hired Paca, the son of a personal friend, as labor relations chief in 2014. She fired him last year; she said she did so because he signed costly memoranda of understanding with the fire union and improperly released confidential internal emails. He denied doing anything wrong and has sued the city over the firing. Paca has signaled his intention to run in recent months and publicly criticized the mayor at, for instance, a support rally for Assistant Police Chief Luiz Casanova after he was suspended from his job for a day.
On his campaign website, Paca criticizes Harp’s administration for running a deficit at the Board of Education and for New Haven having had at one point in 2016 no permanent fire chief, schools superintendent, or police chief. He promises to lower permit and vendor fees while “streamlining” government. He did not respond to phone and email requests for comment for this story. A former candidate for alder in the Hill, Ira Johnson, has also announced a mayoral bid. He is the only candidate to have filed paperwork so far with the city clerk’s office.
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Con’t from page 4
Leadership Fight in the Democratic presidential primary, came to know Ellison through their work in a states-level organization that worked to turn red states blue. He said Ellison isn’t someone who just talks about being progressive. Winfield said Ellison is someone who has been in the fight as the co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and as the first Muslim member of Congress. Ellison is “someone who is willing to fight to make our politics a little more blue than they currently are,” Winfield said “My personal opinion is that we should take a strong look at his alignment with the part of the party that feels like it wasn’t listened to [in the last election],” he said. “I think it could help to bring the party together in ways that some others who align differently in the party may not.” Lisa Bassani, a platform committee member and Morris Cove Ward 18 co-chair, said she doesn’t disagree with Winfield’s characterization of Ellison, but she still wasn’t sure if he is the right person for the job. Bassani said Tom Perez is talking about “the most salient thing facing us right now”: voter suppression. She said between strict voter ID laws, and ending of initiatives that encourage voter participation such as Sunday voting in North Carolina, Republicans have made voter suppression part of their political strategy. “The Republicans came at this hard 10 years ago and they sat down and they created a multi-prong effort to basically eliminate voting rights for a lot of people,” Bassani said. “I think if we don’t sit down ... with a deep plan to change that, I don’t see how we overcome the next four year.” Bassani said if Ellison is ultimately chosen to lead the party she hopes it doesn’t become a divisive fight that continues to keep party factions at odds. “We’ve got a psychopath in the White House,” she said. “And what we need is to be unified. Honestly, if Ellison wins, let’s get behind him. No matter who wins, let’s put our boots on and help.” Some DTC members in the rooms said they want a little more time to learn about the candidates, who also include Sally Boynton Brown of Idaho, executive director of the party since 2012; Pete Buttigieg of Indiana, Mayor of South Bend since 2012; Robert Vinson Brannum, Veterans Committee chair of the NAACP’s Washington D.C. branch; Jehmu Greene of Texas, Democratic Con’t on next page
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
from page 14
strategist, Fox News analyst, and former Rock The Vote president.; Peter Peckarsky of Wisconsin, attorney; Jaime Harrison, chair of the South Carolina party since 2013; and Sam Ronan of Ohio, activist and U.S. Air Force veteran. Raymond Buckley of New Hampshire, chairman of the New Hampshire Dem. Party since 2007, has since withdrew his name from the running and endorse Ellison. The undecided, those like Upper Westville Ward 26 co-chair Amy Marx, will get a few more days to make their decision. Another 40 or so co-chairs will email their votes by Thursday. Marx said the way she sees it, there are two agendas at work in the direction of the party: the push for grassroots activism and excited base vs. a need to attract “the reachables.” The reachables, she said, are those voters who claimed to have voted for Obama previously, but went on to vote for current President Donald Trump in the last election cycle. “There’s no doubt that Congressman Ellison has the magic of grassroots activism. He’s [late U.S. Sen. Paul] Wellstone trained, he’s the hot ticket,” she said. “But I fear that it’s not what we need if we want to attract the reachables who voted for Trump.” Marx suggested that Ellison might be too far left to reach those Obama-turned-Trump voters, and Perez might be better at appealing to that demographic. Ethel Berger, Ward 19 co-chair and platform committee member, countered that the way to reach those very voters is through grassroots organization, which she said didn’t happen among Democrats during the last presidential election. “The only way to reach the ‘reachable’ is to knock on peoples’ doors and speak to people in Ohio, Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania,” she said. “We don’t need primary fundraising weekends in Ohio.” Ultimately, those in attendance who were ready to cast their votes—about 20 of the people in attendance—did so for Ellison. The others, like West River Ward 23 co-chair Jerry Poole, will cast their vote by email before 4 p.m. Thursday. Some in attendance wanted time to do a little research on the candidates and to watch an upcoming debate hosted by CNN Wednesday night. Others like Poole planned to use the short window to meet with or poll their ward committees on whom they should throw their weight behind. “It’s not Jerry Poole’s vote. It’s Ward 23’s vote,” he said.
Hampton President Slams ‘The Quad’ in Letter to BET President
by JL Carter Sr. HBCUDigest.com
Shortly after the debut of Black Entertainment Television’s new drama ‘The Quad,’ officials from historically black colleges and universities quietly steamed about perceived inequities in the show’s representation of HBCU culture. Today, the complaints of many were outlined in a single letter written to BET President Debra Lee penned by Hampton University President William R. Harvey, who slammed the series for its misrepresentation of HBCU leadership, student culture and the challenges faced by the institutions. Devoid of any reference to academics, The Quad is about a president who is promiscuous, trustees who are unwilling to deal with a rogue band director, and a band director who condones criminal activity on the part of his drum major,” Dr. Harvey wrote. “The Quad will lead many to believe that HBCUs exist because of their marching bands; that our presidents are unethical; that our boards are dysfunctional and have misplaced priorities; that our faculty, students and administrators are driven by sex, alcohol, marijuana, low self-esteem, parties and a preoccupation with music; that it is acceptable to disrespect women; that university policy can be set by a band director; and that there are no standards of conduct or penalties for bad behavior. This depiction seems more analogous to a disgruntled, adolescent and unrealistic point of view that some may have. It also feeds a false narrative about the irrelevance of HBCUs.” It’s hard to argue with Dr. Harvey’s view of ‘The Quad,’ which has attracted a growing audience by being well-stocked on drama, but low on its promise to showcase ‘real HBCU culture’ through Georgia A&M University’s mantra of ‘Pride, Tradition and Excellence.’ It is particularly telling that Dr. Harvey, no stranger to strong takes on national HBCU issues, is particularly vexed by the presentation of female leadership at the fictional GAMU. In 39 years as Hampton president, Dr. Harvey has earned a reputation for his pipeline of HBCU presidents, several of which have been women. Of the
10 seats on Dr. Harvey’s executive cabinet, eight positions are held by black women. The three-page letter, dated on Feb. 3 and made available to a select number of HBCU presidents around the country, outlines Dr. Harvey’s concerns with the timing of its debut, and a seeming conspiracy to depict HBCUs in a negative light. “We cannot afford this kind of storytelling. It amounts to the type of ‘fake news’ that is prevalent today. You see, all that most people know about HBCUs is what they see on television. What I saw on BET February 1st was not accurate; rather, it was a bogus representation of very important and historic institutions.” Several HBCU presidents wrote to Dr. Harvey after receiving the letter, commending him for a ‘courageous’ and “eloquent” response to the negative images represented in The Quad, which aired its third episode last night. But equally important to the growing HBCU executive reaction
is the notion that it was easy to see this coming. I talked about it on a recent edition of HBCU Digest Radio, and the prospect the show was building to draw criticism from influential HBCU voices. We knew from the first episode that this was not a good look for our schools. We knew that when actors began defending ‘The Quad’’ as a “human” show that just happens to take place at an HBCU, we were in for a controversial debut season. And now we know that the G.O.A.T. of HBCU leadership hates it, along with a growing delegation of presidential peers. Only one thing can save ‘The Quad’ as a potential vehicle of support for black colleges; all of its creative directors and producers need to disclose just how bad this show is going to be for the remainder of the season, apologize publicly and commit to a stronger, more representative second season with thorough and unchallenged review of consultants who can
do what test audiences obviously didn’t; warn BET about the hell they were walking into during Black History Month. And finally; fire every creative director responsible for greenlighting “The Quad” in its current form. If BET, Viacom or whatever corporate individual responsible for ‘The Quad’ doesn’t do these things, or believes that buzz on Twitter is enough to weather a storm of HBCU presidents being displeased by their culture and livelihoods being misrepresented by a network which pledged to avoid the cultural treason of its past, then what comes next is the real HBCU drama. Presidents and alumni will call for boycotts. And unlike the ‘Sorority Sisters’ fiasco on VH1, BET has no ratchet content to replace what black elite set out to reject. BET promised us an inside look into the world of HBCUs. And unfortunately, they earned just that.
Fat Tuesday Gets Political THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
by LUCY GELLMAN NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT
City Librarian Martha Brogan toasted the free press. Mayor Toni Harp gave an impassioned appeal for the public pursuit of knowledge. Michael Morand recalled post9/11 book-banning, then pointed to libraries as the unspoken heroes of that moment and the evening. Through it all, the audience cheered, then turned over some of its cash for a cause. Striking an unexpected though timely political tone Tuesday evening, Brogan and others kicked off the annual fundraising Mardi Gras celebration at the Ives branch of the New Haven Free Public Library (NHFPL), drawing cheers and raucous whoops from the 300 in attendance. Taking the second-floor veranda as her stage, Brogan addressed a masked crowd that stood beneath multicolored banners, warm spotlights, and balloons. The event is a major fundraiser to support the public library system; Tuesday night, the same evening President Donald Trump addressed a joint session of Congress, New Haven partied to its own political drummer, reflecting the growing role its library system has played in the local civic sphere as it has adapted to a new century. “This evening is dedicated to upholding the democratic values represented by the media and by our public library,” she said. “Today, while we’ve grown to five locations, a readmobile, and extensive collection of print and online resources, we’ve stayed true to our original mission of providing full and unlimited access to information and knowledge.” “Mardi Gras celebrates the public library’s vital role in the community and also focuses attention on the extent to which we rely on you,” she added. That’s especially true this year; a budget address from Harp Tuesday afternoon offered no increases for the library, which relies on outside benefactors such as the Friends group that organized Tuesday night’s affair. This year’s independent fundraising efforts are going toward a new multimillion dollar home in the under-construction Q House for the library’s Stetson
LUCY GELLMAN PHOTO ECDC
dancer Luis Antonio.
Jim Brogan, Fran Detoro and Jamie Cohen.
Inner City News Editor Babz Rawls-Ivy and city Chief Administrator Mike Carter.
Eliza Orleans and Elizabeth Nearing.
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branch, currently sandwiched into the Dixwell Shopping Plaza. The library already has those funds, but is working to bring in individual gifts — to the tune of over a million dollars — for additional expenses. ”It is great to be here in a time of celebration and a time of rededication,” NHFPL Board President Morand added. “In the time we’re in, the librarians are the ones who stand firm, and show the way.” That “way,” despite a heavy orange shadow that stayed the night, seemed to point toward celebration of the library and the community it has fostered in its 130 years. As speakers wrapped up a short series of remarks, a small Mardi Gras parade and impromptu brass band launched into “When The Saints Go Marching In,” winding around banisters as instrumentalists and dancers made their way downstairs. ”That was the most exciting part,” said NHFPL Board Member Tori Rysz, who helps coordinate the event every year. Since 2015, Rysz has brought in dancers for the parade portion of the evening. Last year, library patrons got a taste of the crew from Escapade at Lyric Hall; this year, Elm City Dance Company graced the library. But no one had known that there would be some brass until a few kids from the Hillhouse High School marching band showed up with their instruments. In the library’s main room, attendees mixed and mingled, testing out herb-topped Mardi Gras cocktails as they queued up for photos from Lotta Studio, squirreled away chunks of roquefort and brie, and checked in with old friends. Dancing a tiny bit by a large, brightly adorned flowerpot, colleagues Samantha Dixon and Sarah Massotta took in the lay of the land, pointing out masks they liked a few simple harlequins, wiry frames adorned with rhinestones and glitter, or the occasional feather-filled creation. In an adjoining room, the fiction stacks had been covered in bright, shiny streamers to make way for food booths and dancing. At one end, a band rocked through pop hits of the last five years. On the other, donuts that ensured a sweet ending to the evening. It was Mardi Gras, after all.
Replacing Obamacare In Connecticut Will Increase Uninsured Population by Christine Stuart Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who enjoys being a critic of Republican President Donald Trump, doesn’t relish what will happen when Republicans get rid of parts of Obamacare. Even in Connecticut, which explored setting up its own universal health care system prior to Obamacare, there is no money in the state budget to cover the expanded lowincome population under federal government’s Medicaid program. As far as Medicaid is concerned, there’s about $1 billion in federal funding at risk in Connecticut. Malloy said Monday that Republican governors, like Ohio Gov. John Kasich, are making it clear what would happen in their state if a Republican Congress and Trump get rid of Medicaid expansion. House Republicans have drafted a plan that calls for a rollback of the Medicaid expansion and a phaseout of federal subsidies to help low-income individuals purchase insurance. Kasich went on the national Sunday talk shows and said he would continue to oppose that route. Malloy, who was in Washington to hear Trump’s remarks Monday at the National Governors Association meeting, said he thinks the White House and the U.S. House of Representatives are pretty much in line on getting rid of Medicaid expansion. It means a large number of Connecticut residents, who gained coverage in 2010 when former Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell was the first to take advantage of Medicaid expansion, will become uninsured. There are nearly 765,000 individuals in Connecticut enrolled in Medicaid. This includes over 213,000 in the Medicaid “expansion” portion, according to the Department of Social Services. Under the Affordable Care Act, the federal government covered 100 percent of the costs of those expansion plans between 2014 and 2016. The cost share would have decreased over the next few years under the ACA, but under the Republican proposal it would go back down to 50 percent for the poorest Connecticut residents. The working poor, who hover just above the poverty line and were covered under the expansion program, would no longer receive coverage. It’s probable that they also wouldn’t
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
David Oyelowo The “A United Kingdom” Interview with Kam Williams Oyez! Oyez! Oyelowo! David Oyelowo is a multiple Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actor and producer who has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents. Later this year he’ll be seen in the third film in the Cloverfield horror franchise, and as the lead in the asyet untitled Nash Edgerton film, co-starring Charlize Theron, Joel Edgerton, Thandie Newton and Amanda Seyfried. David gained international acclaim in 2014 starring as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Ava DuVernay’s Selma. For his performance, Oyelowo earned a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama. Most recently, he starred opposite Lupita Nyong’o in Mira Nair’s Queen of Katwe, earning a NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture. And his additional film credits include Interstellar, A Most Violent Year, Captive, The Butler, Lincoln, Middle of Nowhere, Jack Reacher, The Paperboy, Red Tails, The Help and The Last King of Scotland. . On the small screen, David starred in the HBO film, Nightingale, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television. He has collaborated with HBO on several other occasions, including a starring role in Kenneth Branagh’s 2006 production of “As You Like It,” in which he played ‘Orlando’ opposite Bryce Dallas Howard; and as the lead in the mini-series, “Five Days,” for which he won a Satellite Award for Best Actor in a Miniseries or a Motion Picture Made for Television. In 2008, he starred in the criticallyacclaimed adaptation of the Alexander McCall Smith novel, “The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency,” which was directed by the late Anthony Minghella. He appeared in ABC-TV’s 2008 Golden Globenominated production of “A Raisin in the Sun,” too, alongside Sanaa Lathan, Sean Combs and Phylicia Rashad. A classically-trained actor, David recently appeared opposite Daniel Craig as the title character in the New York Theatre Workshop OffBroadway production of Othello. He
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got his start on stage in 1999 with The Royal Shakespeare Company. He garnered national recognition for his performance as King Henry VI in the RSC’s 2001 production, when he was cast as the first black actor to play an English king in a major production of Shakespeare. The performance won David the 2001 Ian Charleson Award, which is presented in recognition of the best classical stage performances in Britain by actors under the age of 30. Here, he talks about his latest outing opposite Rosamund Pike as an African king who falls for a British commoner in A United Kingdom. Kam Williams: Hi David, thanks for another interview. I really enjoyed the film. David Oyelowo: Thanks. KW: What interested you in A United Kingdom? DO: The fact that it was a story I felt I should know, but I didn’t know. And as I dug deeper, I appreciated the enduring love that Seretse and Ruth had for each other was a wonderful story. KW: After I watched the film, I went home and looked up their story as well as the history of Botswana, since I’d known nothing about either. DO: One of the amazing things about this experience for me has been the Google trail. There’s so much to learn about them and African history. KW: I appreciate Amma Asante making a movie like this because when I grew up, the only movies about Africa I saw were Tarzan movies. So, I grew up rooting for Tarzan and thinking all Africans were cannibals. It reminds me of how a Native American friend says he grew
up identifying with the cowboys and hating IIndians because of how he’d been brainwashed by Westerns. DO: That underscores the significance of someone like Amma getting a story like this made. KW: Editor/Legist Patricia Turnier asks: Did you speak to Ruth and Seretse descendants in preparation for the role?? DO: Yes, and we even shot on location in Botswana. KW: Patricia observes that, unlike many other actors, you have managed to avoid being typecast. She asks: what is your secret? DO: Becoming typecast is something that can happen very easily, if you are not paying attention. Look, the fact of the matter is that Seretse and Dr. Martin Luther King [in Selma] makes it twice in a row now that I’ve played historical, political figures. I’ve got to be mindful of that going forward, despite how much i admire both of these men. You’ve got change it up to have a long career. so, I won’t be playing that sort of role in the near future. KW: Since she’s French-Canadian, she’s also wondering whether the movie will be translated into other languages and if it will be showcased at Cannes DO: It won’t be showcased at Cannes, because it’s already been released. But, yes, it will be distributed internationally, in Canada, France, Botswana, Italy, Germany and many other countries. KW: How was it working opposite Rosamund Pike? How do you explain the great chemistry the two of you generated on screen? DO: I had been working on the film for a long time, and it was important to find an actress who shared my passion for the project. When I sent Rosamund pictures of Seretse and Ruth, she had such an emotional and visceral reaction to them, it really gave me a lot of confidence that we would be bringing everything we could to the work. And I think that passion for the project led to the chemistry you see onscreen. KW: This year, the Academy nominated seven actors of color for Oscars after not nominating any the previous two years. But that must be little consolation to you, since your terrific performance in Selma as Dr. King was snubbed. DO: Well, thank you, but films are for life. Even with what happened with Selma, everywhere I go, people Con’t from page 23
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
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2017 Oscar Recap
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Private prisons slam door on justice
by Kam Williams
La La Land, I Mean Moonlight, Wins Best Picture Climactic Moment Ruined by Monumental Blunder The Academy Awards ended on a sour note when Faye Dunaway announced that favorite La La Land had won the Oscar for Best Picture. Trouble is, she and co-presenter Warren Beatty had been handed the wrong envelope. So, while La La’s producers were taking turns delivering heartfelt acceptance speeches, they were abruptly interrupted so that the audience could be informed that Moonlight was the real winner. Immediately, that film’s cast and crew descended upon the stage while the suddenly-deflated La La entourage quietly exited via the wings. Emcee Jimmy Kimmel confronted Warren Beatty with “What did you do?” But the epic flub wasn’t Warren or Faye’s fault, since the card inside the envelope was actually for Best Lead Actress and read “Emma Stone - La La Land.” Besides Best Picture, Monlight landed awards for Best Supporting Actor (Mahershala Ali) and Adapted Screenplay. La La can take some consolation in the fact that it nabbed the most honors overall, 6, including Best Director (Damien Chazell), Score and Song (“City of Stars”). Otherwise, Hollywood’s biggest night represented a remarkable reversal of its recent lilywhite preferences, picking the predominantly-black cast Moonlight as Best Picture, along with AfricanAmericans Viola Davis (Best Supporting Actress), Mahershal Ali (Moonlight), Barry Jenkins (Best Adapted Screenplay) and Ezra Edelman (director of O.J.: Made in America). Edelman, the son of legendary children’s rights attorney, Marian Wright Edelman, dedicated his victory to Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson as well as to victims of police brutality. His wasn’t the only politicized acceptance speech, with many recipients hurling thinlyveiled barbs at Donald Trump. The most virulent attack on the President came from came from Iranian Ashgar Farhadi, writer and director of Best Foreign Filmwinner, The Salesman. He boycotted the festivities, but had a spokesman
By Jesse Jackson
Complete List of Oscar Winners Best Picture: Moonlight Best Director: Damien Chazelle (La La Land) Best Actor: Casey Affleck (Manchester by the Sea) Best Actress: Emma Stone (La La Land) Best Supporting Actor: Mahershala Ali (Moonlight) Best Supporting Actress: Viola Davis (Fences) Best Original Screenplay: Manchester by the Sea Best Adapted Screenplay: Moonlight Animated Feature: Zootopia Foreign Language Film: The Salesman Documentary Feature: O.J.: Made in America Cinematography: La La Land Costume Design: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Production Design: La La Land Film Editing: Hacksaw Ridge Makeup and Hairstyling: Suicide Squad Original Score: La La Land Best Song: La La Land (“City of Stars”) Sound Editing: Arrival Sound Mixing: Hacksaw Ridge Visual Effects: The Jungle Book Animated Short: Piper Documentary Short: The White Helmets Live-Action Short: Sing
read a statement excoriating Trump for issuing an executive order temporarily banning travelers from his country and a half-dozen other Muslim countries. Jimmy Kimmel took a lot of indirect potshots at the president, too, like when he asked Meryl Streep whether her gown was from Ivanka’s fashion line. When the O.J. Simpson
doc won, he quipped, “ O.J., you can get an extra slice of baloney on your sandwich tonight.” Kimmel was very smooth delivering his funny but never mean-spirited jokes, so don’t be surprised if he’s asked to host again next year, especially given that the Oscars air on ABC, the same network as his late night show.
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Next week, March 7, will mark the 52nd anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the historic march and shocking police riot in Selma, Alabama, that helped build public support for passage of the Voting Rights Act. Now, a halfcentury later, an avowed critic of that law — former Alabama Sen. Jefferson Beauregard Sessions III, who was born in Selma — has been confirmed as attorney general of the United States. In one of his first acts in office — reversing Obama’s order to phase out the federal government’s use of private prisons — he has begun to weaken civil rights protections. The decision on private prisons reflects Trump’s desire to repeal all things Obama. It expresses the ideological bias of reactionaries like Sessions toward privatizing public functions. It also reveals the pervasive corruption already apparent in the Trump administration. The two largest for-profit prison companies in the United States — GEO Group and CoreCivic (formerly Corrections Corporation of America) — and their associates have, according to Reason Magazine, contributed “more than $10 million to candidates since 1989 and have spent nearly $25 million on lobbying efforts.” When Trump stoked public fears of violent crime in our cities, called our prison system a “disaster,” and endorsed “privatizations and private prisons,” the industry ponied up hundreds of thousands of dollars to support his candidacy. Since Trump won the election, share prices of GEO Group and CoreCivic have soared more than 100 percent. In our corrupted politics, Sessions’ act helps consolidate their return on investment. Reviving private prisons, however, represents far more than mere antiObama venom, ideological preference or even political corruption. It tramples basic civil and human rights. And African Americans and Latinos, who disproportionately populate our prisons, will suffer the most. Incarcerating people in for-profit prisons is morally indefensible. Locking people up and turning them over to companies whose primary concerns are profits and return to investors is a recipe for abuse. And the record of private prisons demonstrates repeatedly that abuse
is pervasive.In Sessions’ home state of Alabama, for example, whites constitute two-thirds of the total population but only 42 percent of the prison population. African Americans represent only one-fourth of the total population, but over half (54 percent) of the incarcerated. This is the cause of repeated upheaval and scandal. Private prisons suffer more violence. Underpaid guards too often punish prisoners without accountability. Private prisons, Obama’s Justice Department found, aren’t as safe for prisoners or for guards as public prisons. They lack the services that might revive hope rather than crush it, such as educational programs and job training. Despite their companies’ claims, private prisons don’t save government much money either. Worse, the thirst for profit overrides the needs of the incarcerated. Private prisons are notorious for skimping on food, facilities and health care. They gouge prisoners even for using the telephone to stay in contact with loved ones. Worse, the private companies generally demand that the government guarantee that their cells will be full, even if actual crime rates are falling or if harsh sentencing is rolled back. Nearly two-thirds of private prison contracts mandate that state and local governments sustain an occupancy rate — usually 90 percent — or taxpayers pay for the empty beds. At the federal level, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) budget is mandated by the Congress to maintain detention beds for at least 34,000 immigrants daily. Sessions’ order impacts some 14,000 federal prisoners, a number that has been trending down in recent years. Most of the 2 million prisoners in America are sentenced and held at the state and local level. To them, Sessions is sending a strong signal. The federal government will be ramping up detentions, particularly of immigrants. It signals to states and localities — many of which have been souring on private prisons — that the federal government is all in for privatization. Trump has promised a new day for what he calls America’s “inner cities.” But what we’ve seen so far is a return to the failed policies of the past — law and order rhetoric combined with calls for tougher police tactics, harsher sentences, and now a corrupt and indefensible embrace of privatized prisons. With Sessions in the DOJ, Trump’s divisive racial rhetoric is about to turn into policy.
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Resisting the deportations: Trump’s modern-day Fugitive Slave Act by Art Perlo, Citizen, New Haven, CT.
Once before in U.S. history, states like Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Michigan had a large population of migrants – people who had broken laws to reach their new homes. The federal government required officials of those states to deport the “illegals,” but the orders met with widespread resistance from radicals. The year was 1850, and the law was the Fugitive Slave Act. It required officials and all citizens of Northern states to assist in deporting escaped slaves, or anyone a Southerner claimed was an escaped slave, to a brutal and usually short life of horrendous labor on the cotton and sugar cane plantations of Mississippi and Louisiana. I thought of this history after attending a meeting of activists from around Connecticut to organize resistance and support for the tens of thousands of families (millions nationwide), who have been thrown into fear of being torn apart as fathers or mothers face raids, arrests, and deportations. No, the situation is not identical to that of 1850. But the parallels are remarkable.
Demonstrators pledge to protect immigrants and refugees at New York’s JFK Airport on Jan. 29, 2017. | Progressive Caucus of New York City Council - This piece first appeared on People’sWorld.org February 23, 2017
Enslaved Africans and their descendants did not choose servitude on Southern plantations, and risked their lives to escape slavery to the “free states.” Migrants from Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and elsewhere today did not choose the war, criminal gangs, political repression, poverty, and/or lack of opportunity which forced them to leave the communities they knew and loved to come to the U.S. In
each case, they are fleeing a system that is imposed from the outside. In the pre-Civil War South, it was the Southern plantation owners and the Northern (and British) bankers, merchants, and cotton mill owners that profited and upheld the system. They did it with backing from the armed might of the U.S. government. Today, it is giant multinational corporations mostly based in the U.S., with their local allies around
the world, still backed by the armed might of the U.S. government, that perpetuates the conditions from which people have fled. In both cases, families are torn apart. Parents are separated from their children, perhaps never to see them again. But there is also a proud tradition of resistance. After the Fugitive Slave Act was passed, outraged citizens in Northern states organized
to protect their threatened neighbors. Some states and cities passed laws that forbade the use of local jails or the assistance of state officials in the arrest or return of alleged fugitive slaves. In a few instances, abolitionists broke into jail, freed captives, and helped them escape to Canada. Today, in cities and towns around the country, people are coming together in the spirit of the abolitionists. Cities and states are passing “sanctuary” laws, to refuse cooperation with deportations. Whole congregations are raising money, and making plans to provide legal assistance, family support, and other aid. In the 1850s, the federal government was controlled by the slaveholders and their collaborationist allies. They attempted to stamp out dissent, prosecuting and jailing those who defied the law to protect others from enslavement. And today, the Trump administration threatens retribution. Americans, like people of any nation, can point to their history with both pride and horror. We can recognize the horrible crime of slavery, even when we celebrate the resistance and rebellions of the enslaved and the determination of their allies to stand by them.
AARP Appoints Wayne Detzler as Connecticut State President
AARP Connecticut – the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization in the state with nearly 600,000 members – announces the appointment of Cheshire resident Dr. Wayne Detzler as its new Volunteer State President. Dr. Detzler currently serves as the resident chaplain at Elim Park, where he also helped found the retirement community’s post-acute care and rehabilitation program. His current position at Elim Park is a continuation of a lifelong enthusiasm for teaching and assisting people. Dr. Detzler’s professional and volunteer work has included a variety of roles from professor, to minister, to missionary at schools, fire departments and more in the United States, Europe and Asia. He has also authored or contributed to more than 30 published books. AARP State Director Nora Duncan said, “Wayne has significant volunteer work and leadership with a wide array of organizations that will be extremely useful in a role that requires diverse experiences. Wayne also has a very personal connection
Wayne Detzler with the important issue of caregiving, having been the primary caregiver for his wife suffering from Alzheimer’s.” The Volunteer State President helps guide the work, act as a local ambassador and lead a corps of dedicated volunteers for AARP in Connecticut. With the State Director and in collaboration with
other volunteers and staff, the State President is a partner in the strategic state plan. The State President provides feedback on important issues and communicates]regularly with volunteers and the public regarding AARP state and national policies. The State President may also represent AARP on various taskforces and commissions, and act
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as a spokesperson on issues affecting residents aged 50 and over. Detzler added, “Looking forward, it is my great delight to serve as part of the vast volunteer force of AARP/CT. It is my hope that we will see a broadening and deepening of involvement across our state as we face issues important to us all.” Dr. Detzler, who began his teaching career in Germany, has been an educator at schools in the United Kingdom, Belgium, Sweden and the United States, including at Sacred Heart University and Trinity College in Connecticut. In addition to his work in the classroom, Dr. Detzler has had chaplain appointments at churches in Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina and England. His media experience includes serving as a spokesperson for Reverend Billy Graham in Germany, hosting programs on BBC Radio and Public Access Television, and as a freelance journalist. In addition, he spent two decades as a missionary with Greater Europe Mission and was a fire chaplain with the Meriden (CT) Fire
Department and Charlotte (N.C.) Fire Department for more than 20 years combined. A sampling his honors includes the Scholastic Honor Society at Wheaton College, American Field Service from the Foreign Exchange Student, the Distinguished Fire Service Medal from the Charlotte Fire Department and the Barnabas Award and Medal from the Fellowship of Christian Firefighters International. Among the 30 books he has written or contributed to are Answering the Twin Terrors – Kingdom Living in an Age Rage, Daring the DevilSpiritual Warfare, The Changing Church in Europe, and Diary of an Unworthy Servant. Dr. Detzler holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in history from Wheaton College and a PhD in Theology from Manchester University in England. Dr. Detzler was ordained in 1960 at Calvary Baptist Church in Roseville, Mich. Dr. Detzler has two children, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017 Con’t from page 18
Oyez! Oyez! Oyelowo!
have seen that film. And at the end of the day, that’s why you do it. with the passage of time, no one really remembers who was nominated or who won, it’s the film that has to stand on its own two legs. i’m very proud to say that I feel we achieved that with Selma. KW: The Viola Davis question: What’s the biggest difference between who you are at home as opposed to the person we see on the red carpet? DO: [LOL] Well, I’m a lot sillier at home. I have four kids and a very rowdy house. KW: What is your favorite dish to cook for the kids? DO: Being of Nigerian descent, I like to make fried plantains. It was a staple of mine growing up, and it’s a big favorite in our house. KW: Larry Greenberg asks: Do you have a favorite movie monster? DO: [Laughs again] A favorite movie monster? Gosh... I have to say I was very intoxicated by King Kong growing up. I had one of those rubber King Kong dolls with stretchy arms, and I would play with it for hours. KW: Harriet Pakula-Teweles asks: With so many classic films being redone, is there a remake you’d like to star in? DO: I always think it’s a bad idea remaking classics. I’m of the mind that it’s best to leave them alone unless you have a very, very fresh point-of-view which is almost never the case. KW: The Sanaa Lathan question: What excites you at this point in your career? I see you have an untitled project with Nash Edgerton coming up. DO: Yeah, that’s an actioncomedy, which is a very different speed for me. I really loved doing that film. Speaking of avoiding being typecast, I really want to try my hand at some different genres. Action is something I love to watch, and I’ve had fun whenever it’s come my way. Rasamund and I met doing an action-thriller [Jack Reacher]. I really enjoyed that experience, and would love to do something like that again. Comedy is something else I enjoy watching, and would love to do. So, the idea is to just keep mixing it up. KW: You also have God Particle coming up with Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Chris O’Dowd. What’s that about? DO: It’s a sci-fi that J.J. Abrams is producing and a wonderful,
young director named Julius Onah is directing. As i’m sure you know, because it’s a J.J. Abrams project, if I reveal any more, I’ll be shot in the kneecaps. [Chuckles] KW: Super 8 is my favorite J.J. Abrams movie. Have you seen it? DO: Yes, he’s a very special filmmaker. And we’ve really pushed the envelope with God Particle which is coming out in October. KW: What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done with your kids? DO: Taking them skiing. They thought they’d mastered it before they really had, so they started doing all these crazy jumps and things. They were incredibly good at it, and everything turned out fine, but it got a little hairy there for a second. KW: When do you feel the most content? DO: When I’m at home with my wife and kids, slumped on the couch, watching a movie or laughing together. KW: Let’s say you’re throwing your dream dinner party—who’s invited? DO: I’d love to have Sidney Poitier, Daniel Day Lewis, Denzel Washington and Sean Penn over. KW: The Anthony Anderson question: If you could have a superpower, which one would you choose? DO: I would probably choose time-traveling, so I could go back and change some of the fashion choices I’ve made. KW: Attorney Bernadette Beekman asks: If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your 13 year-old self? DO: When I was younger I couldn’t wait to be older. I would say, “Slow down!” KW: Bernadette also asks: What is your favorite charity? DO: The GEANCO Foundation which provides scholarships for Nigerian girls who have been victims of Boko Haram. KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered? DO: As someone who helped people. KW: Finally, Samuel L. Jackson asks: What’s in your wallet? DO: [LOL] Less money than people think. KW: Thanks again for the time, David, and best of luck with A United Kingdom. DO: Thank you very much, Kam.
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
#BlackGirlHealing: “I Walked Until 230 Pounds Of Burdens Lifted From My Body” by Rev. Theresa S. Thames /GirlTrek.org Like many women, Rev. Theresa S. Thames grew up on the Southern comforts of rich, homecooked meals. However, food became a source of discomfort and by the time she was 33, the young New Jersey resident was 447 lbs. Rev. Thames shared with BlackDoctor.org her inspiring story of choosing freedom and the first step that changed her life. It’s a vicious cycle, a cycle that I learned at a very young age growing up in Southern Mississippi. If you’re hungry, eat. If you’re tired, eat. If there is a reason to celebrate, eat. If you are sad and depressed, eat. I learned that life revolves around feelings and food. Thus, I had come to believe that food was the balm to soothe all of the issues of my heart and soul. Unfortunately, I was enslaved in the vicious cycle of feeling and eating with no way to break free. By the time I was 14 years old I weighed 280 lbs. By the time I was 33 years old I was 447 lbs. Nevertheless, I carried my weight with pride and always made certain that I was stylishly dressed. I flippantly blamed my Southern roots and “big bones” for my voluptuous size. However, the truth was that I was trapped in the vicious cycle and had mastered
the art of feeling and eating. If I were to be completely honest, I was not happy. I was miserable, afraid, depressed and dying. I had eaten my way through an abusive marriage, a demanding career, an emotional divorce, the death of my sister, the death of my father, the death of my ex-husband, years of grief, and the realities of single motherhood. I was literally eating my life away. A glimpse of freedom came into my life when I mistakenly landed on the GirlTrek: Healthy Black Women and Girls Facebook page. This page showed images of smiling Black women taking charge of their health through walking. I “liked” the page and read the posts. I then entered a simple competition and won a t-shirt. The winning of this
A school that honors Black History, and contributes to it. FACT: Edward A. Bouchet, a graduate from Yale College in 1874 was the first African-American to receive a Ph.D. in the U.S., in physics. He was valedictorian of Hopkins School, class of 1870. Today, Hopkins continues to attract and develop remarkable students. During the summer, we offer courses that are open to any student entering grades 3-12 in the fall of 2017. It’s a chance to experience how Hopkins prepares students to study, learn, lead, and take part in sports. Join us.
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t-shirt was not happenstance, but a divine connection and intervention. One of the founders of GirlTrek, Vanessa Garrison, emailed me and asked me to join the movement. GirlTrek saved my life. Unbeknownst to them, they asked me to pray for the #WeAreHarriet National GirlTrek gathering when I was in the midst of fighting my way through darkness and depression. The message of GirlTrek was not, “Hey you fat Black woman,
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workout to lose weight and get thin.” The words that the founders Vanessa and Morgan spoke were, “Walk yourself to FREEDOM.” They did not ask me to record my food intake nor count my steps. They simply said, “Sister, we love you. We believe in you. We need you to love yourself enough to commit to walking 30 minutes a day.” THIS I could do. THIS I could commit to. On Sunday, March 10, 2013, I chose freedom. As GirlTrek celebrates the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, I
too celebrate my own freedom. GirlTrek and Mother Harriet have taught me that freedom of spirit, mind and body is possible now in this earthen vessel. I learned to walk and pray. I learned to walk and surrender. I learned to walk and listen to God’s great dream for my life. I walked my way to freedom from depression, stress and that vicious cycle. I walked and walked until 230 lbs of burdens lifted from my body. In choosing freedom, I walked into the fullness of God’s love, grace and power. However, my freedom and healing is not enough. ~ Rev. Theresa Thames GirlTrek Harriet Tubman once said, “I freed a thousand slaves I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves.” When I trek and workout in my GirlTrek gear, I am making a statement and declaring a mission to model healing, health, selfcare, and freedom to women and girls that look like me. GirlTrek is a beautiful sister full of hope in midst of despair, joy in the midst of pain, and love in a world of hate. Join the sisterhood. Get a taste of freedom and be forever changed. Get free. The Rev. Dr. Theresa S. Thames is the Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel at Princeton University. As an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church, Theresa served as a local pastor in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for nine years. She received her undergraduate degree from Howard University, a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Gender Studies from Duke University Divinity School, and is pursuing her doctorate from Wesley Seminary with an emphasis in Leadership Excellence. Theresa is passionate about the intersections of theology, gender, interfaith discourse, and social justice. She is a challenging preacher, thoughtful theologian, and devoted friend. Theresa is a lover of life who prioritizes Sabbathkeeping, self-care, and radical joy. This piece appeared on BlackDoctor.org
Dr. Mae Jemison: The Businesswoman You Never Knew THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
“I didn’t even think about whether I’d be the first African-American woman in space… I just wanted to go into space,” Dr. Mae Jemison Dr. Mae Jemison, the first AfricanAmerican woman in space, is one of those rare individuals who excels at everything she does. Jemison was born in Decatur, Ala., in 1956. She was raised on the southside of Chicago. Her father, Charlie, was a maintenance worker, and her mother, Dorothy, was a schoolteacher. The youngest of three children, it was obvious from an early age that Jemison had a huge appetite for learning. She entered Stanford University in 1973 on a scholarship at the ripe old age of 16. She earned a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering in 1977, while also fulfilling the requirements for a bachelor’s degree in AfricanAmerican studies. Jemison graduated from Cornell University medical school in 1981. After medical school, Jemison spent two and a half years as a Peace Corps medical officer in Sierra Leone and Liberia in West Africa. When she returned to the states in 1985, she went to work as a general practitioner in Los Angeles. She also took graduate classes in engineering in hopes of fulfilling her lifelong dream of traveling in space. In 1987, after her first application was rejected, Jemison became one of 15 astronaut candidates chosen by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration out of 2,000 applicants. Jemison finished her training as a NASA mission specialist in 1988. She became the first woman of color in space in 1992, when she blasted
into orbit aboard the space shuttle Endeavor. Her inspiration for going to NASA was Lt. Commander Uhura on the original Star Trek series. Jemison made a cameo appearance on its spin-off Star Trek: the Next Generation on episode “Second
Chances” in 1993 as Lt. Palmer. Jemison was a Science Mission Specialist, a first for NASA. While on the STS-47 space lab, she conducted experiments in life and material sciences and was involved in bone cell research. Even though she had no role models in NASA,
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Jemison said even as a child she was convinced she would travel in space. But Jemison’s story didn’t stop at being an astronaut. She reinvented herself into a successful businesswoman. In March 1993, Jemison resigned from NASA. But soon after leaving the space program, she formed The Jemison Group Inc., which focuses on the beneficial integration of science and technology into everyday life. Among the organization’s projects are Alpha, a satellitebased telecommunications system to improve health care in West Africa, and The Earth We Share, an international science camp for students ages 12 to 16. Jemison built the BioSentient Corporation. It is a medical technology company that develops and markets mobile equipment worn
to monitor body’s vital signs and train people to respond favorably in stressful situations. The company was founded in 1999 and is based in Houston, Texas. The company also trains people to respond favorably in stressful situations. The Jemison Group holds the commercial license from NASA to commercialize this new technology. Huntsville city schools honored Dr. Mae Jemison by naming a very beautiful new high school located at 5000 Pulaski Pike in Huntsville after her. Tuesday morning, Aug. 2 2016, Dr. Jemison cut the ribbon on the new 9-12 school that will also offer students an opportunity to complete up to 60 hours of college credit while still in high school. The new campus will offer students the opportunity to concentrate on cyber security studies and advanced manufacturing techniques using a 3-D titanium printer. This high tech school will have keycard access doors, high def security and a tornado shelter in the gym. She wrote a book: “Find Where the Wind Goes: Moments From My Life,” which was written for teen-agers. She has presented to the United Nations on the uses of space technology. As busy as Dr. Jemison is, she still finds time to enjoy her favorite activities: “I like to do all sorts of things! I love to read all sorts of books, like fiction, science fiction, and adventures are my favorite! I love to dance and exercise, lift weights and play volleyball. I also enjoy cooking, watching movies, listening to music, gardening and traveling!”
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Help Wanted:
Immediate opening for construction laborer for Heavy and Highway Construction. Please call PJF Construction Corp.@ 860-888-9998. We are an equal opportunity employer M/F Help Wanted: Immediate opening for Dump Truck Driver for Heavy and Highway Construction. CDL A license and clean driving record required. Please call PJF Construction Corp. @ 860-888-9998. We are an equal opportunity employer M/F. Resident Services & Administration Assistant The Housing Authority of the Town of Westport Minimum Salary: $42,500 annual Application DEADLINE is MARCH 24, 2017 General Description of Work:
The Resident Services & Administration Assistant is a key Westport Housing Authority (WHA) staff position that insures residents’ services are the Authority’s first priority. In addition, the Resident Services & Administration Assistant is responsible for initial and ongoing engagement of residents and related administrative duties. The Resident Services & Administration Assistant is also responsible for assisting the Director of Programs and Resident Services in the administration, monitoring, and oversight of resident files and records; applicants’ eligibility determinations; waiting list inquiries; and other tasks required insuring 100% occupancy at the WHA and its affiliates’ housing properties. A full job description and employment application is available at www.westportct.gov or by calling 203-227-4672 x 12. Applications must be postmarked on or before March 24, 2017 to be considered and the WHA reserves the right to be begin interviewing candidates prior to the application deadline. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a background check, (2) a physical examination, including drug screening, and (3) a 90-day probationary period. Applications & job descriptions are available at the Westport Housing Authority’s office located at 5 Canal Street, Westport, CT 06880, Monday-Friday, 11 A.M. to 4 P.M, or downloaded from the website listed above. To be considered for this position, the applicant must complete the job application and attached a Resume which should be mailed to the address above. Fax, email or hand delivered applications will not be accepted. Minority and Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply. The Housing Authority of the Town of Westport is EOE, M/F/D employer.
INVITATION TO BID Viking Construction, Inc. is soliciting interested Connecticut vendors and subcontractors for renovation of existing buildings for the Lawnhill Terrace Phase 2 project located on Custer Street, Stamford, CT. This projects consists of 55,500 SF residential renovation of 8 buildings providing 60 residential units. The renovation will take place over an 11 month duration commencing 2nd Quarter 2017 and the work will include but not be limited to: Div 1 Cleaning, Temporary Facilities; Div 2 Demolition and Abatement, Sitework, Paving, Utilities, Landscaping, Fence; Div 3 Site Concrete for walks and ramps; Div 4 Masonry cleaning; Div 5 Exterior railings; Div 6 Rough Carpentry, Finish carpentry, wood stairs and railings; Div 7 Insulation, Siding, Exterior Trim, Shingle Roofing; Div 8 Doors, Hardware, Windows; Div 9 Drywall, Resilient Flooring, Paint; Div 10 Signs, Toilet Accessories; Div 11 Appliances; Div 12 Residential Kitchen & Bath Casework and Plastic Laminate tops, Simulated Stone countertops, Window Treatment; Div 15 HVAC, Plumbing; Div 16 Electrical. This project is subject to the CT small contractor set-aside program administered through CHRO (25% SBE/6.25% MBE) as well as HUD Section 3 Business and Hiring requirements. Viking Construction encourages the participation of all SBE/MBEs currently certified with Connecticut DAS Supplier Diversity program as well as any HUD Section 3 businesses. All interested companies who have not already received a direct invitation by Viking Construction, Inc. may request it and shall submit their complete company information, qualifications, and bonding capacity on or before 3/3/2017 by Noon via fax 203-4062167 or email: estimating@vikingconstruction.net. All subcontractor/vendor bids are due by March 14, 2017 at Noon to Viking Construction, Inc via fax 203-406-2167 or email: estimating@vikingconstruction.net Viking Construction, Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
CDL CLASS A TRACTOR TRAILER DRIVER NEEDED. F/T SEND RESUME: GWF@SNET.NET OR CALL 860-274-9668 Thank you, Susan
NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR BID HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY Roofing Project/Fairfield Ridge IFB No. B17002
CONTACT PERSON HOW TO OBTAIN THE IFB DOCUMENTS:
BID SUBMITTAL RETURN PRE-BID WALK THROUGH BID SUBMITTAL DEADLINE/BID OPENING
Ms. Devin Marra, Director of Procurement Telephone: 203-744-2500 x141 E-Mail: dmarra@hacdct.org Contact Ms. Devin Marra, via phone or email. Housing Authority of the City of Danbury 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B17002 Roofing Project/Fairfield Ridge Housing Authority of the City of Danbury 13-15 Fairfield Ridge, Danbury, CT 06811 March 15, 2017 at 10:00am March 21, 2017 at 9:00am
[Minority- and/or women-owned businesses are encouraged to respond] Bridge Repair Crew –
must have reliable transportation and be willing to travel statewide, Operator, Driver, Laborer, M/F, 5-15 years Heavy Highway Exp, OSHA 10, Immediate Opening 860-664-8042, Fax 860-664-9175michelle@ occllc.com EOE, AA, Females and Minorities encouraged to apply
KMK Insulation Inc. 1907 Hartford Turnpike North Haven, CT 06473
Mechanical Insulator
Insulation Company offering good pay and benefits. Please forward resume via REGULAR MAIL only. This company is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
Cheshire Housing Authority 50 Rumberg Road Cheshire, CT 06410
Pre Applications for waiting list at Section 8 Elderly Complex called Beachport will be accepted February 1, 2017, 10:00 am to May 1, 2017, 4:30 pm. To qualify you must be either 62 years old or disabled with a maximum gross annual income of 30,650 (one person), 35,000 (two people). Interested parties may pick up a pre-application at 50 Rumberg Road or call to have one mailed. Completed applications must be returned NO LATER than 4:30pm, May 1, 2017. For more information call 203-272-7511.
The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT is seeking bids for Comprehensive Multi-Functional Copier, Printing System & Service. Bidding documents can be viewed and printed at www.norwalkha.org under the business tab, RFPs/ RFQs. Norwalk Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Curtis O. Law, Executive Director
New Haven Healthy Start
A program of The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven is seeking to fill two full time positions. Please refer to our website for details: http://www.cfgnh.org/About/ContactUs/EmploymentOpportunities.aspx EOE Electronic submissions only. No phone calls
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Construction oriented company seeking full-time Accounting/Administrative Assistant to answer phones, schedule sales appts, filing, typing & other general office duties. Will also have accounting responsibilities-data entry, sales order billing, and processing A/P transactions, supporting our overthe-counter sales person, the controller & CFO. Min 5 yrs. Related experience, excellent written & verbal skills, ability to multitask, knowledge of basic accounting principles, excellent computer skills (5+ yrs. Experience) with Excel & Word, accounting software knowledge a plus. $31,200 annual salary-negotiable based on experience & qualifications. AA/EOE Email resume to mmunzner@atlasoutdoor.com
Request for Specialty Crop Block Grant Concept Proposals The Connecticut Department of Agriculture is seeking concept proposal for projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as fruits and vegetables, dried fruit, tree nuts, maple syrup, honey, horticulture, and nursery crops. Projects must impact and produce measurable outcomes for the specialty crop industry and/or the public. Projects cannot begin until after January 1, 2018, and must be completed by September 29, 2020. The maximum award is $75,000. More info and complete application guidelines are available at www.CTGrown.gov/grants, or by contacting Jaime Smith at 860-713-2559 or jaime.smith@ct.gov. Concept proposals are due to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture by 4:00 p.m. on March 29, 2017.
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
POLICE OFFICER Competitive examinations will be held for the position of Police Officer in the Guilford, Hamden, North Haven, Orange, Seymour, Torrington and West Haven Police Departments. Initial examination phases will be physical performance, written, and oral. Candidates may apply online at www. policeapp.com. Application deadline is March 8, 2017.
Housing Authority of the City of New Haven Invitation for Bids Interior and Exterior Door Installation and Repair The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking Bids for Interior and Exterior Door Installation and Repair. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on Monday, February 13, 2017 at 3:00 PM
ALL DEPARTMENTS PARTICIPATING IN THIS RECRUITMENT DRIVE
Elm City Communities
The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT
Request for Proposals Unarmed Security Guards
ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS.
is seeking proposals for FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICES. RFP documents can be viewed and printed at www.norwalkha.org under the business tab, RFPs/RFQs. Norwalk Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Curtis O. Law, Executive Director
Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm city Communities is currently seeking Proposals for Unarmed Security Guards. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on Monday February 13, 2017 at 3:00 PM
The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT
CDL CLASS A TRACTOR TRAILER DRIVER NEEDED. F/T SEND RESUME: GWF@SNET.NET OR CALL 860-274-9668 Thank you, Susan
is seeking proposals for MIXED-FINANCE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT LEGAL CONSULTING SERVICES. RFP documents can be viewed and printed at www.norwalkha.org under the business tab, RFPs/RFQs. Norwalk Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Curtis O. Law, Executive Director
Bridge Repair Crew – must have reliable transportation and be willing to travel statewide, Operator, Driver, Laborer, M/F, 5-15 years Heavy Highway Exp, OSHA 10, Immediate Opening 860-6648042, Fax 860-664-9175michelle@occllc.com EOE, AA, Females and Minorities encouraged to apply
SHOP EQUIPMENT MANAGER HEAVY AND HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
Immediate opening for Highly Organized, Self Motivated, Multitask Shop Manager
Elementary Café Manager
10 months per year – 20 hours per week The Town of Wallingford Board of Education Food Service Department is seeking a skilled individual to coordinate and manage the activities of the other foodservice employees within the facility. Applicants must have a high school degree or equivalent. Ability to read, write, and speak English. Individuals must have experience in food service with school food service experience preferred. Supervisory experience also preferred. Special Requirement: Must possess sanitation certification from an approved Dept. of Education source. Hourly Rate of $16.41 per hour plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Personnel Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Fax #: (203) 294-2084. Closing date will be March 1, 2017 or the date the 50th application is received, whichever occurs first. EOE.
Skills & Duties required: • Five Years Experience in Overseeing Shop Maintenance • Strong Mechanical Knowledge of Heavy & Highway Equipment • Manage, Plan, Direct & Motivate Mechanics Day to Day Activities • Implement All Aspects of Equipment Repair Including: Managing Vendors, Procurement of Parts & Supplies , • Develop Reports to Forecast, Track & Budget All Equipment Expenses • Ensure Equipment Compliance with All Federal & State Regulations • Assist Field Operators w Trouble Shooting & Emergency Repairs • Competent w Microsoft Word, EXCEL, MANAGER PLUS and Timberline Software Equal Opportunity Employer Minority and female candidates are highly encouraged to apply Apply: Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming 22 Peters Rd Bloomfield, CT 06002 Phone: 860-243-2300 Fax 860-243-3100
\Send resumes & salary requirements to:
Email: garrity.careers@garrityasphalt.com
CONTRACTOR OPPORTUNITY - BRIDGEPORT Construction Resources, Inc., an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, seeks certified MBE/WBE/SBE Subcontractors and/or suppliers and local business enterprises to bid applicable sections of work/equipment/supplies for the following construction project: Project known as South End Commons - Demolition of existing properties and new construction of eight (8) residential two-family dwellings and site improvements located on Columbia Street and Johnson Street in Bridgeport, CT. Bid Date and Time: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 by 12:00 noon. Electronic Plans and specifications can be obtained at no charge by contacting Mark Rubins at Construction Resources Farmington office at (860) 678-0663 or by email to mark@corebuilds.com.
Town of Bloomfield
Assistant Director of Public Works Salary $74,337 - $114,743 For details and how to apply, go to www.bloomfieldct.org Pre-employment drug testing required AA/EOE 27
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
LEGAL NOTICE The Bristol Housing Authority is developing its 2017-2021 Agency Plans in compliance with the HUD Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998. It is available for review at the Authority’s office located at 164 Jerome Ave., Bristol, CT. The Authority’s hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition, a Public Hearing will be held on February 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. at Gaylord Towers Community Hall located at 55 Gaylord Street, Bristol, CT. Public comments will be received no later than February 27, 2017 at 4:30 p.m. EOE
Grants Administration
Program Planning Administrator-Seeking a highly qualified professional to administer, manages, and oversees the Town’s Grants and Economic Development Programs. Serves as a representative on various intergovernmental and interagency organizations. The minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university in government or public administration plus three years (3) of progressively responsible public administration and at least two years (2) of grant writing experience or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. $77,695-$99,410 plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Personnel Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Closing date will be December 15, 2016. EOE.
ELECTRICIANS
Semac Electric is seeking Electricians (CT Licensed Journeymen & Foremen, E1 and E2) to join our team for medium & large commercial construction projects thru out the State of CT: Hartford, Fairfield & New Haven Counties. We have excellent wages and benefits. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications available at our main office at 45 Peter Court, New Britain, CT or send resume to P.O. Box 638, New Britain, CT 06050 or via fax to 860-229-0406 or email: careers@ semacelectric.com
Mechanical Insulator
Insulation Company offering good pay and benefits. Please forward resume to P.O. Box 475, North Haven, CT 06473 This company is an APPRENTICE
Telecommunications Company looking for apprentice to learn indoor and outdoor low voltage cable installation, aerial bucket work, messenger and lashing; manhole and underground installation. Good salary with benefits. Fax resume to 860-6432124 or mail to Fibre Optic Plus, 302 Adams Street, Manchester, CT 06042. Attn: Greg Brown AA/EEO Employer AFFIRMATIVE ACTION / EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT
The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport
Invitation for Bid (IFB) Trumbull Gardens – Building 10 & 11 Roof Replacement Solicitation Number: 075-PD-17-S The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) is requesting sealed bids for the replacement of roofs at Trumbull Gardens building 10 & 11. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on February 15, 2017. To obtain a copy of the solicitation you must send your request to bids@parkcitycommunities.org, please reference solicitation number and title on the subject line. A pre-bid conference will be held at 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604 on March 1, 2017 @ 2:00 p.m. Although attendance is not mandatory, submitting a bid for the project without attending conference is not in the best interest of the Offeror. Additional questions should be emailed only to bids@parkcitycommunities.org no later than March 10, 2017 @ 2:00 p.m. Answers to all the questions will be posted on PCC’s Website: www. parkcitycommunities.org. All bids must be received by mailed or hand delivered by March 21, 2017 @ 2:00 PM, to Ms. Caroline Sanchez, Contract Specialist, 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. No bids will be accepted after the designated time.
CONTRACTOR OPPORTUNITY - BRIDGEPORT
Construction Resources, Inc., an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, seeks certified MBE/WBE/SBE Subcontractors and/or suppliers and local business enterprises to bid applicable sections of work/equipment/supplies for the following construction project: Project known as South End Commons - Demolition of existing properties and new construction of eight (8) residential two-family dwellings and site improvements located on Columbia Street and Johnson Street in Bridgeport, CT. Bid Date and Time: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 by 12:00 noon. Electronic Plans and specifications can be obtained at no charge by contacting Mark Rubins at Construction Resources Farmington office at (860) 678-0663 or by email to mark@corebuilds.com.
Electrical Apprentice Maintenance Electrician - The Town of Wallingford Public Utilities, Electric Division is seeking an individual to perform maintenance and installation of electrical equipment such as but not limited to maintaining and repairing high and low voltage equipment. Position requires completion of high school, technical high school or trade school plus two (2) years’ experience in electrical maintenance or construction OR an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut motor vehicle operator’s license. Wages: $24.63– $32.77 hourly and an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Personnel Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Fax #: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be the date the 75th application or resume is received or January 30, 2017 whichever occurs first. EOE.
Common Ground High School Seeks Curriculum Development Consultant Common Ground High School is seeking an experienced, creative professional who can work with teachers, school leaders, students, families, and community partners to strengthen our curriculum and classroom teaching — ensuring it is driven by standards, rooted in our local community and unique site, culturally relevant and inclusive, contributing to social justice, and pushing students towards both environmental leadership and college success. For a complete job description and compensation information, please visit http:// commongroundct.org/2017/01/common-ground-seeks-curriculum-development-consultant
is seeking bids for Janitorial Services. Bidding documents can be viewed and printed at www. norwalkha.org under the business tab, RFPs/ RFQs. Norwalk Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Curtis O. Law, Executive Director
Responsible for leadership, management & maintenance of plant infrastructure and all related/associated equipment. 5 plus years supervisory experience. Email: Info@redtechllc.com, Fax: 860-218-2433, RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.
ELECTRICIANS
Class A CDL Driver with 3 years min. exp. HAZMAT Endorsed. (Tractor/Triaxle/Roll-off) Some overnights may be required. FAX resumes to RED Technologies, at 860.342-1042;
Semac Electric is seeking Electricians (CT Licensed Journeymen & Foremen, E1 and E2) to join our team for medium & large commercial construction projects thru out the State of CT: Hartford, Fairfield & New Haven Counties. We have excellent wages and benefits. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applications available at our main office at 45 Peter Court, New Britain, CT or send resume to
Facilities Manager – Portland, CT:
Class A Driver Email: HR@redtechllc.com Mail or in person: 173 Pickering Street, Portland, CT 06480.
RED Technologies, LLC is An EOE.
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Toddler Special Mon-Thurs 10-12 • 1 Parent 1 Toddler • Only $15 1 hr $20 2 hr
$60 off
frequent jumper
10 1-hour jump/play passes reg. $150 now $90 Complete coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One coupon per person. These coupons are only valid in park, in person, and not valid for online purchases. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Exp: 9/30/16
FREE
buy 1 hour, get second hour free buy 1 hour and jump/play for two hours Mon-Thurs only. Not to be combined with any other offer or promotion. Not valid online. Does not include required jump socks. Exp: 9/30/16
$20 off
HOURS: 10AM TO 10PM • 7 DAYS A WEEK
any Birthday Party booked Monday - Friday Coupon MUST be mentioned when booking. Coupon must be redeemed at time of party to receive discount. Exp: 9/30/16
203-989-3357 • jumpoffct.com 27
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
Viola Davis: “Celebrate The Stories Of Ordinary People” by Naomi MacKenzie, BlackDoctor.org
It’s official, beautiful awardwinning actress, Viola Davis has become the first Black woman to win an Oscar, a Tony Award and an Emmy Award! She is truly having one career-defining year. Prior to the movie “Fences,” Davis had won an Emmy in 2015 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her work on “How to Get Away with Murder” and two Tony Awards, first in 2001 for her work in “King Hedley II” and then again in 2010 for her work in the Broadway rendition of “Fences.” Her interview with InStyle magazine shares her growth, and what she’s realized about herself as she’s evolved over time. She admits in the interview that she actually has to work really hard to look good, and that honestly if it wasn’t for paid stylists she probably wouldn’t be able to put the looks together that she hits the red carpet with. “Taking care of a 5-year-old, cooking at home, and running to the set when you’ve had four hours of sleep, you don’t feel like a movie star…then, every once in a while, you put something on that makes you feel cute,” she said. Of her pre-stylist days she says, “Back in the day, my style was whatever was different and cheap. I was an artist, and I wanted my clothes to reflect that. I now
(Photo credit: Viola Davis Instagram) understand fashion in a way that I don’t even have a language for.
I know designers. Before, you could’ve put a gun to my head and
asked me to name just one designer and I would’ve been dead.” At the Emmy Awards, Davis gave a profound acceptance speech where she touched on the topic of opportunity and lack of diversity within Hollywood. “The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You can’t win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there….So here’s to all the writers, the awesome people — Ben Sherwood, Paul Lee, Peter Nowalk, Shonda Rhimes — people who have redefined what it means to be beautiful, to be sexy, to be a leading women, to be black. And to the Taraji P. Hensons, the Kerry Washingtons, the Halle Berrys, the Nicole Beharies, the Meagan Goods, to Gabrielle Union, thank you for taking us over that line.” Davis is yet another example of a woman of color who has redefined what we are capable of achieving, as well as given Americans a different perspective on what it means to be beautiful and black on both the inside and outside. Her talents and wisdom have touched the lives of many young women, and her courageousness is humbling. On the cover, she rocks her natural ‘fro, her beautiful dark skin and her pristine smile. She is comfortable with who she is and what she stands for, and is proud of it. She tells Instyle, “What’s released me most from the fear of aging is selfawareness…I’ve never determined
Vocalist Sanam Marvi Makes US DEBUT At Jorgensen
Thurs, Mar 23, 2017 at 7:30 pm Artist on tour as part of Center Stage
Celebrated Pakistani singer Sanam Marvi will take the stage at UConn’s Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 23, to share an evening of inspiring vocal interpretations of South Asian spiritual, folk, and classical poetry. Backed by an acoustic ensemble of South Asian instruments (sitar, harmonium) and percussion (tabla, double-headed dholak drum), Marvi’s performance will draw on centuries-old pieces composed by saints and sages from Pakistan’s Sindh and Punjab regions to produce a musical experience that audiences will find meditative and trance-inducing one moment and exhilarating and blissful the next. Her Jorgensen appearance is the first stop in the artist’s 2017 US debut
tour presented by Center Stage, a public diplomacy initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Performance begins at 7:30 pm. “Our lives have become so fastpaced that people feel emptiness within and are searching for inner peace. I want to show them there is comfort to be found in the wisdom of Sufis, and in the couplets on divine love and devotion of our great poets,” says Marvi, whose inspirational musical performances have established her as one of South Asia’s most effective vocal warriors for tolerance, spirituality, and peace. Marvi says the idea behind promoting Sufi music and poetry is to extend an understanding of the message of love and universal oneness and to embrace humanity as a whole, rising above trivial
religious and social divisions. “Sufi poetry and Sufism are about humanity,” reflects Marvi. “It’s connecting people beyond all borders and boundaries. You don’t have to come from an Islamic tradition to get it. It’s a message for all human beings to share.” Born in 1986, Marvi hails from the small city of Hyderabad, in Sindh. By the age of 7, she began singing with her father, Faqir Ghulam Rasool, during festivals and ceremonies held at shrines throughout Pakistan’s Sindh and Punjab provinces. Female performers are fairly common at these festivals, but Marvi’s voice stood out for its range and clarity. She continued her studies under noted gurus, including Ustad Fateh Ali Khan at the Gwailor gharana (school). Now a rising star across the subcontinent, Marvi made a breakout
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performance on Pakistan national television in 2009. Her powerful and revelatory interpretations of the sub-continent’s mystics reach across cultural borders and generations to offer solace in our uncertain and often troubled times. Stardom aside, a sense of service permeates Marvi’s approach to her music, as well as the repertoire itself. “When I’m on stage, I’m oblivious to my surroundings,” she says. “But I want to transmit the message I’m receiving from my Lord faithfully to my audience.” The presentation of Sanam Marvi is part of Center Stage, a public diplomacy initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, administered by the New England Foundation for the Arts in cooperation with the U.S. Regional Arts Organizations, with support
my value based on my looks or anything physical. I’ve been through a lot in life, and what has gotten me through is strength of character and faith.” More positive images of Black women such as Davis need to be discussed in the media. Unfortunately, we have so much negativity influencing us it’s hard to find the ones who we really should be looking up to as role models. Davis makes it a point to mention that having adopted a daughter she understands how important setting a good example and focusing on building character and self-love are. She says she tells her daughter Genesis, “she was born from my heart, not my belly.” How precious is that! Con’t from page 16
Obamacare
be able to purchase insurance, even with the subsidy proposals being discussed by Republicans. Instead of income, Republicans have proposed using age in order to calculate a tax subsidy. States will likely receive about $30 billion less in premium tax credits under the Republican proposal, according to a report from Avalere Health that was prepared for the NGA meeting. “Nobody knew that healthcare could be so complicated,” Trump told the governor’s Monday. He went onto say that Americans love Obamacare now because they’re being told it’s coming to an end. “There’s nothing to love. It’s a disaster, folks, okay? So you have to remember that,” Trump said. Republicans know that once they make changes to the ACA, they own it and all of its consequences. It’s a reality Trump acknowledged in his remarks to the governor’s Monday. Malloy said Trump’s speech to the NGA in which he started outlining some of what’s expected to be in his address to Congress Tuesday was “not the most encouraging stuff I’ve ever heard.” He said he expects based on what he heard Monday that Trump is going to call for an increase in national security and defense spending, cut social programs, and make tax cut pronouncements that will spark a trade war. Tags: Gov. Dannel P. Mall, Donald Trump, healthcare, Obamacare, ACA, NGA
THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
GREATT GIF ! IDEA
“There is a p recision and beauty about everyth ing th performers d ese o.” Washingto n Post
Golden Dragon Acrobats Saturday, May 6 • 8:00p.m.
GET YOUR TICKETS AT
LYMANCENTER.ORG
203-392-6154
SAT • FEB 18 • 2PM & 7PM XLCenter.com
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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 01, 2017 - March 07, 2017
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