INNER-CITY NEWS by INNER-CITY NEWS

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 2227, , 2017 28, INNER-CITY NEWS July 2016- -March August 02,2017 2016

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Reveiz Sworn In As New Fair Haven Alder

ALLAN APPEL PHOTO

Elizabeth Reveiz holds Bible for her son’s swearing in.

by ALLAN APPEL NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

March 20 is the birthday of Elizabeth Reveiz, who held the Bible for her son’s installation. It is also the birthday of her mother Ana Beatriz Celis. In 2017 it was also the day on which their son and grandson, Kenneth Reveiz, was sworn in as the alder of Fair Haven’s Ward 14. Reveiz noted that felicitous feliz cumpleaños moment as he made remarks to a full house of alders, and other city officials and admirers gathered in City Hall’s second-floor atrium. There Mayor Harp swore him in to take the seat of Santiago BerriosBones, who represented the district until he resigned earlier this winter. After the secretary of state affirmed that officially Berrios-Bones had left his post on Jan. 31, a series of contentious meetings occurred in January, during which members of the Ward 14 Democratic Town Committee sparred with each other about who qualified as a member of the committee entitled to nominate a successor. Reveiz emerged as the ward committee’s candidate. He was to stand in a March 17 wardwide election against any other candidate who wanted to contest the seat. City Clerk Michael Smart, who was in attendance at the swearing-in ceremony, said no other nominees came forward by the March 10 deadline. Therefore Reveiz, unopposed, became the new alder to finish out Berrios-Bones’ term this year. The second-floor space was filled up Monday with not only congratulating alders, but members of New Haven Rising, the grassroots group of mostly

young people for whom Reveiz is employed as a community organizer. A youthful 26, and a Yale College graduate who majored in literature including French literary theory, Reveiz said he has been involved in many community activities. He described himself as a poet, playwright, and lyrics. “I never thought of running until Santiago resigned,” he said. Reveiz, who lives on Grafton Street, was clearly moved by the moment. “I grew up poor. I know how to work my butt off,” he said, pledging to do the same for those he represents across ages, races, and other categories. He promised to focus most on job creation. “The Latino community, white and black folks, are regularly impacted by unemployment and poverty. I want to work across difference” to help remedy this, he said. For inspiration, Reveiz said, he reads biography. He cited in particular the lives of Bayard Rustin, a key early leader of the civil rights movement, and Harvey Milk. He said their stories Rustin was a prime organizer of the 1963 March on Washington and Milk the first openly gay man to hold public office in California are about more than individual effort. “I like that there’s a team in these folks’ stories,” he said. For more strictly literary inspiration and pleasure, Reveiz said, he reads the work of New York School luminary Frank O’Hara, Dylan Thomas and Audre Lorde. Then Reveiz went off to attend his first Board of Alders meeting and receive his committee assignments.

Stop! In The Name Of Arts by ALLAN APPEL

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Thumbelina and Motown met in a rousing New Haven Board of Alders-sponsored kids’ talent show that raised $4,000 for kids’ arts programs citywide. “A Night of Motown” was the theme of the fifth annual Talent Haven show, spearheaded by East Shore Alder Sal DeCola and the Board of Alders. DeCola said the event came together to raise scholarship funds for families who otherwise wouldn’t have the means to send their kids to Neighborhood Music School, Music Haven, or the afterschool arts programs at Co-Op High. The performance Thursday night attracted 75 friends, family members, and arts lovers to Co-Op High’s auditorium, where kids from the Alliance Children’s Theater (ACT) brought the house down with a medley of tunes from the musical Thumbelina, which the kids are performing later this month at their home theater at Fair Haven School, along with Motown classics like “Dancing In The Street.” ACT Director Ellen Maust, who is also the school system’s arts coordinator, put the performing groups together with the help of Kelly Wuzzardo, the director of education at the nearby Shubert, which is in a long-time artistic partnership with the kids at CoOp Arts and Humanities High School. Ten groups of kids were originally scheduled to take the stage on Wednesday night, said Wuzzardo. The snowstorm pushed the show to Thursday. “We weren’t expecting a blizzard, and next year we’ll build in a snow day,” said Wuzzardo, emphasizing how complex it is to organize transportation for kids. The teens in the performing groups arranged, long in advance, to be free Wednesday, but had to responsibly show up at their jobs on Thursday. “That’s why it’s mostly little kids” who performed on Thursday night. “We’re still here. They’re troopers, by golly,” Wuzzardo added. The ACT kids, 14 strong, performed an exuberant medley of

Kids from the Lincoln Bassett Choir performing the Supremes’ “Stop In The Name of Love.”

ALLAN APPEL PHOTO

Marangelie Colon,Alexis Maynard, Shelagh Laverty, Edward Mathews of the ACT.

Martha and the Vandellas tunes combined with numbers from their own show, a musical version of the Hans Christian Andersen tale “Thumbelina.” (Performances of Thumbelina at Fair Haven School happen on March 31 and April 1.) The show opened with an impressive medley of Stevie Wonder tunes performed a cappella by performers from the host school, the Co-Op Choir. Next up, the Edgewood Jazz Ensemble, or “The Edge,” performed “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” a standard made famous in the late 1960s by Curtis Mayfield. The mostly brass group, directed by Joel Pietrorazio, featured impressive anchoring drums and a flute solo; the kids also performed

“Black Orpheus.” After the Lincoln-Bassett kids, the show concluded with a performance by dancers from Augusta Lewis Troup School choreographed by Shaquella Nelson. All evening long the program’s master of ceremonies, Board of Ed Member Ed Joyner, challenged the audience to name the original Supremes (Dianna Ross, Mary Wells, and . . . . ?) Praising the performances and emphasizing the need for New Haven kids to have cheerleaders in their lives, Joyner even threatened to break out in dance himself. Instead, he took out money from his wallet and encouraged audience members to give even more. “Arts provide kids an education that lasts a lifetime,” he said.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

John P. Thomas Publisher / CEO

Babz Rawls Ivy

Editor-in-Chief Liaison, Corporate Affairs Babz@penﬁeldcomm.com

Advertising/Sales Team Trenda Lucky Keith Jackson Delores Alleyne John Thomas, III

Editorial Team Staff Writers

Christian Lewis/Current Affairs Anthony Scott/Sports Arlene Davis-Rudd/Politics

Contributing Writers David Asbery Tanisha Asbery Jerry Craft/Cartoons Barbara Fair

Dr. Tamiko Jackson-McArthur Michelle Turner Smita Shrestha William Spivey Kam Williams Rev. Samuel T. Ross-Lee

_______________________

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Christine Stuart www.CTNewsJunkie.com Paul Bass New Haven Independent www.newhavenindependent.org

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Blumenthal Vows To Shield City From $6M Trump Hit by LUCY GELLMAN

Newhallville ($30,000 to the New Haven Ecology Initiative), and assist with home ownership. For a full breakdown, download this document here. Blumenthal said that New Haven may also suffer from proposed elimination of federal TIGER grants, for which the city received $20 million for a downtown project last year, and cuts to FEMA that would take away money with which New Haven and Connecticut are still recovering from Hurricane Sandy. “Donald Trump went into poor and African-American communities, and said: Vote for me, what do you have to lose?” Blumenthal said. “The answer is, we have everything to lose.”

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

New Haven may have to lay off 20 workers and community agencies would lose millions in anti-poverty dollars if President Donald Trump’s newly proposed federal budget passes. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal joined Mayor Toni Harp to deliver that message Friday morning in a press conference at New Haven’s City Hall. Calling the budget “a betrayal of our American values,” Blumenthal promised to fight proposed cuts, which include elimination of Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) and Community Development Block Grant programs that he hailed as vital to the city’s survival. “For me, this budget is dead on arrival,” he said. “New Haven is not the only affected city, but it is a poster city for how it would disastrously damage communities. It is penny-wise, pound-foolish.” “It is further evidence the current administration would dismantle a support system upon which New Haven and its residents literally depend,” said Harp. She added that it “would take an untenable human toll.” That toll, she said, is most visible in the annual $6 million in federal funding that the city receives from the $3 billion Community Development Block Grant program, which funds 20 positions in the city’s government and goes toward subsidized housing, services for the disabled and elderly, anti-blight initiatives and neighborhood revitalization. Without that funding, Harp said, the city may have to eliminate those positions, and will still be left reeling from millions of dollars in cuts

Blumenthal: This is DOA.

Coffee Pot Cracked On Knife-Wielding Robber’s Head by STAFF

Blumenthal talks to New Haven Promise President Patricia Melton after the conference.

to social-assistance organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Livable City Initiative (LCI), Small Business Service Center (SBSC), Cornell Scott - Hill Health Corporation, Fair Haven Community Health Clinic, Mary Wade Home, Neighborhood Housing Services and more. “They [proposed cuts] will also likely result in layoffs of city staff to keep the budget balanced, putting even more people in New Haven back on their heels,” said Harp.

During the 2015-16 program year, the city spent around $2.9 million on “CDBG-eligible activities,” according to city Communications Director Laurence Grotheer. Grant funding allowed the city to acquire 81 properties, 26 of which came through foreclosure ($452,328), dispose of 12 properties including five residential structures ($45,000), demolish five structures ($113,493), board up nine properties and maintain another 17 as public space, support farming initiatives in Fair Haven, the Hill, and

A robber thought a kitchen knife would enable him to rob a Kimberly Square convenience store and get away. It didn’t work out that way. Here’s how it worked out, according to police spokesman Officer David Hartman. The 50-year-old robber, “armed with a large kitchen knife,” “burst in” to the Sam’s Store at 16 Kimberly Ave. shortly before 10 p.m. this past Friday. He “demanded ‘everything’ and took cash from the store’s Lottery register and” from the 31-year-old clerk A 24-year-old clerk at the adjoining Dunkin’ Donuts called the cops. Two officers headed to the scene. That D&D clerk, meanwhile, “suspected the thief was distracted enough that ... she could disarm him,” Hartman writes in a release. “As she grabbed the knife from Marrero, the store clerk tackled him to the ground. The D&D clerk grabbed a coffee pot and cracked the crook over the head with it.” The cops arrived, grabbed the knife. They arrested the robber, who lives in the neighborhood, and charged him with first-degree robbery and second-degree larceny. The clerks were uninjured.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Top City Lawyer To Oversee New Department, Old Drama by THOMAS BREEN NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

A hearing about the city’s top lawyer’s budget turned into an examination of why his office is taking over the labor relations department, when he plans to fill a top vacancy there, and whether he’s assuring that city officials are up to date on how to properly handle and dispose of official public records in the wake of a still ongoing controversy over a high-profile firing. Corporation Counsel John Rose Jr. fielded those questions when he presented his proposed new budget at a three-hour-plus budget hearing held at City Hall Thursday night by by the Board of Alders Finance Committee. Few of the questions had to do with the relevant numbers in the mayor’s proposed budget, however, which asks for Corporation Counsel to incorporate the threeperson staff and $425,000 budget of labor relations into its purview. Rather, the alders’ queries for the city’s top lawyer focused primarily on the ongoing fallout from the city’s 2015 firing of Nichole Jefferson from her directorship of the Committee on Equal Opportunities (CEO), the subsequent FBI investigation that found no criminal basis for the firing, and a more recent reprimand from the state in regards to the city’s improper disposal of official public documents related to the case. At the alders’ request, Rose made sure that a few key documents related to the issue were available for review and discussion. One such document was a July 2016 letter that the Connecticut State Library sent to the city, formally admonishing it for violating three Connecticut General Statutes related to the retention, maintenance and disposal of public records. In the letter, Connecticut Public Records Administrator LeAnn Power identified a series of required remedial steps for the city to take in order to ensure its compliance with the necessary regulations. These steps included the documentation of the status of all of the CEO records in question, the

Rose (center), his executive assistant, Paula Pernal (right), Deputy Corporation Counsel Cherie Phoenix (left) at hearing.

distribution of a copy of Public Records Policy 05 to all city staff and officials, and the attendance of state-organized record management training sessions by at least five additional key city staff members. (As of the sending of the letter, then-interim CEO Director Lilia Snyder and Local 3144 President Cherlyn Poindexter had already attended the training.) “I know there’s ongoing arbitration on this issue, and I’m not looking to litigate that here,” Annex Alder Al Paolillo, Jr. said to Rose. “What I am looking to address is the information in the letter, which relates to the state library saying that the city is cited for violations of [three] Connecticut general statutes. That’s pretty concerning. What are we doing to comply? What are we doing to train? What are we doing internally? What are we doing going forward, so that we’re not looking at another letter like this?” Rose explained that Assistant Corporation Counsel Kathleen Foster, who has also already attended the state training, has been working with Public Records Administrator Power to organize New Haven city official attendance at the training sessions, which happen only three or four times a year. The next session is on April 19 in Westport. “Let’s start with the fact that the people going to the trainings are coming from interesting quarters,”

Rose said. “Michael Carter, the CAO [chief administrative office] of the city, is going to training. Mike Piscatelli and Matthew Nemerson from Economic Development are going to training. Martha Okafor from CSA [the Community Services Administration] is going to training.” Rose and his staff promised to follow up with Attorney Foster on the status of the city’s formal reply to the state library’s letter. At the end of the letter, Power writes that the city should “respond within 60 days of the date of this letter outlining your corrective plan of action for the violations identified in this letter, including the submission of the records status report, confirmation regarding the distribution of Public Records Policy 05; and plan for the selection of key staff to attend an upcoming records management training session.” Finally, A New Labor Relations Chief? Rose also mentioned that his department is nearly ready to announce a selection for a new director of labor relations, a position previously occupied by Marcus Paca, a former alder who was fired from the position by Mayor Toni Harp in April 2016 and who recently launched his 2017 campaign for mayor. The position has remained vacant ever since Paca left. “As you know the city has been

without a labor relations director for some months now,” Rose said. “We have in fact received 36 applications for labor relations direc-

tor, and have pared that list down to six. There are four people who will be interviewing in the next few weeks, and then I expect that we will be presenting a name for selection for the labor relations directorship.” Westville Alder Adam Marchand asked why the labor relations department should move from the finance to corporation counsel office’s purview. Rose responded that the history of close collaboration between the two departments makes the transition a logical one. “Historically, that’s where labor relations was with corporation counsel,” he said. “When we installed an acting legal labor relations person, I spent a great deal of time with him, whether he would report to me or I report to him on the status of labor relations, negotiations, contract relations, litigation, arbitration. It just makes sense for that department to be under my office.”

Klarides Calls For

‘Time Out’ On ‘First Five’ Deals BY Press Release

Following the disclosure that Alexion Pharmaceutical, which received $51 million from the state to relocate from Cheshire to New Haven, is laying off 210 workers, House Republican Leader Themis Klarides today called for a halt to the First Five deals and said the legislature’s Finance Committee members should have some oversight on such agreements. A bill providing that oversight will be heard on Friday in the committee. “Alexion is just another example of how the administration is doing deals to benefit companies without any real guarantees of long-term job creation and commitment from the beneficiaries of such lucrative contracts,’’ Klarides said. She also noted that Alexion for the first time ever gave the Democratic Governors Association $25,000 in 2013 after it had received the $51 million package of loans and grants from the state. The Alexion news followed recent disclosures that another First Five recipient, ESPN, has also begun another round of layoffs.

The proposed legislation would require that the Finance Committee be given authority to weigh in on the portfolio of deals in the First Five program created by Gov. Malloy. Klarides said it appears the state too often is not getting enough guarantees of job creation in exchange for the grants and loans. “The executive branch, of course, has to have the authority to engage in such transactions and the goal is obviously to keep and attract employers to Connecticut. But the legislative branch should be heard on these matters,’’ Klarides said. She pointed out that the General Assembly has the authority to approve all state employee union contracts negotiated by the Governor’s office, but the Democratic majority just chooses not to for risk of offending union members.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Cross Culinary Squad Cooks Its Way To Top by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Before pushing the start button on the kitchen timer, set for 45 minutes, the students of the Wilbur Cross culinary competition team are typical teens laughing and cracking jokes. Then the time keeper asks if they’re ready. And they get serious. That’s because they know that when the timer’s alarm goes off, signaling that those 45 minutes are up, the team of five students will have to have properly cooked and plated a three-course meal. They will have to have demonstrated that they have properly sanitized their work area before, during and after cooking. That they haven’t cross contaminated their food. That they’ve cooked everything to proper temperature.That they can chop, dice, and julienne vegetables, while also demonstrating that they can properly dress raw meat and keep their kitchen waste to a minimum. But they’ve got this. They’re champions. The team recently took first place honors in the Connecticut ProStart Invitational, which is sponsored by the Connecticut Restaurant Association, in the culinary category. Their counterparts in the management competition also took first place. The students earned trophies, certificates of achievement and college scholarships for their efforts and the right to represent their state. At the end of this month they will head to Portland, Maine, for a regional competition. The big dance, which is sponsored by the National Restaurant Association, comes in late April in Charleston, S.C., where the students will compete against teams from all over the country in the national ProStart Invitational. Chef Nathaniel Bradshaw described the national event as an Iron Chef-like, kitchen stadium competition, that features judges, bright lights and lots of stress. For the management team, Bradshaw likened it to the television show Shark Tank, where students have to make their pitches of a from scratch restaurant concept in-

MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO

Captain Genesis Padilla of the state championship team.

The winning management team.

The winning culinary team.

cluding a marketing strategy, and impress judges who know the restaurant business inside and out. “It’s like the Olympics,” Bradshaw, who heads up the school’s ProStart program, said of the national competition. He should know. Two years ago, he was recognized with a ProStart James H. Maynard Excellence in Education Award Practice Makes PerfectOn a recent afternoon when many students

were heading home, or to other more traditional after school programs, the culinary team’s members were preparing to cook. They’ve been cooking the same dishes—their competition menu— nearly every afternoon, even on spring break, since the start of school. That menu consists of pan seared New England scallops served with green pea puree, shallots, tomato vinaigrette, pea shoots and rad-

ish; bacon-wrapped, seared pork tenderloin, julienne vegetables, polenta sticks, green peppercorn sauce and a mushroom cap; and a chocolate mousse dome made of milk chocolate, orange Feuillantine crust, bittersweet chocolate mousse and fresh berry coulis. The team has 60 minutes to transform raw ingredients into delicious food during competition. Chef Bradshaw, who serves as the main coach along with baking and pastries instructor, Chef John Valus Sr., requires the students to practice their skills with just 45 minutes on the clock. The reason: He wants them to perform well under pressure. On competition day, when teams from all over the country are cooking at stations close by, Bradshaw said nerves happen and he wants them to be ready. Even on practice day things can go wrong. Sometimes you forget the stock you need. Sometimes your gloves are too big, as was the case for 17-year-old senior Naicha Aguayo. Or the gloves rip twice each time you put on fresh ones. And worst of worst, your baconwrapped pork tenderloin hits a sizzling hot pan wrong and starts to stick to the pan. Both things happened to Kyle Sundland, a 15-year-old sophomore. He began to panic. Bradshaw coached him to scrape the meat out of the pan and ditch the

burned bacon pieces. Kyle rewrapped the bacon, got the tenderloin back into the pan and things settled back down. The team members cooked like the well oiled machine they have become, knowing their roles, but also knowing when to offer assistance. Team captain Genesis Padilla, 18 and a senior, kept the ship steady by reminding everyone that certain sanitation rules have changed. Her parents own a restaurant in town called Nelly’s. She said she hopes to possibly take over that business and open her own one day. She’s the one on the floor reminding team members to wash fruits and vegetables before they’re chopped. Never mind that she was cooking peas for the puree, while simultaneously melting chocolate for the multi-step dessert that she would be assembling and plating. Acting as timekeeper and manager, Coty Gueye, 17, is a senior and an aspiring restaurant manager who plans to attend Johnson & Wales University. She was in charge Wednesday of constantly calling out the time and making sure everyone had what they need. But no one was frantic or confused as they navigated hot pans and sharp knives. They worked quietly and methodically from start to finish even as Bradshaw ran back and forth between the cooking team and the management team, which was in another room nearby, to ask questions and check the time. The team also had to carry on with their work even as people popped in to tell them how delicious everything smelled. With minutes to spare, every course was meticulously plated, work stations were cleaned and when that was done, they put their hands up and stepped away. Details, Details, Details While their culinary counterparts were busy trying to perfect their dishes, the management team was seeking its own level of perfection. The team had come up with a winning restaurant concept that is called Apothecary Cafe. The idea behind the cafe is healthful eating and the alchemy of mixing Con’t on page 14

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Johnson Administration Previewed by PAUL BASS

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

A year after Ira Johnson becomes mayor, more neighborhood schools will replace magnet schools. But the mayor’s chief of staff may remain the same. Johnson who has filed papers to try to seek a spot on the Sept. 12 Democratic mayoral primary ballot offered those and other previews Tuesday of how he’d run the city, during an appearance on WNHH radio’s “Dateline New Haven” program. Democratic Mayor Toni Harp plans to run for a third yearterm this year. Former Alder and city labor relations chief Marcus Paca has also filed papers to seek the party’s nomination. Johnson would need to collect about 5,000 signatures of registered Democrats to land a spot on the ballot, according to City Clerk Michael Smart. Johnson said he’s confident his team of supporters, currently numbering eight, will do that. He has created a GoFundMe page which he said has so far collected four contributions totaling $200; he said he hopes eventually to raise $2,000. He has also created this website. Johnson, a 50-year-old former substitute teacher who is currently living at Bella Vista, grew up on Stevens Street. He was active in his Democratic ward committee when he lived in the Hill, and in 2015 organized a march on behalf of a 25-yearold woman who was shot dead on her porch. He once made the ballot for a challenge to a Hill alder, and announced campaigns for state representative and U.S. Congress that didn’t lead to a ballot spot. On WNHH Tuesday, he spoke of converting some magnet schools to neighborhood schools, where kids can walk to classes each day. “If kids in New Haven went to school in their neighborhood, more parents would volunteer,” he argued. Too many schools are magnets, drawing children from different neighborhoods,

6Johnson, at right, with supporter Maurice Smith at WNHH.

he said. As a result, some parents have to arrange difficult transportation for children who go to multiple schools in neighborhoods all over town. The problem is particularly acute at the high school level, where only Wilbur Cross and Hillhouse take students based on geography, he argued. “I know someone who lives on Greenwich Avenue. He has to catch the bus to Cross.” He said he would assemble a team to help figure out how to de-magnetize schools that received state money and thus are under obligation to continue accepting students from across neighborhood or municipal borders. “It would probably take about a year,” Johnson said. Johnson said he would seek to keep the current mayoral chief of staff, Tomas Reyes, in his job, but would look for a new economic development administrator ideally “a recent graduate from Yale or Southern” Connecticut State University who would bring new energy and ideas. He sided with the state over the city in the current dispute over who should build a second garage at Union Station, echoing the argument of the governor’s budget chief that the state is in a better position to pay for it. He called for Interim Police Chief Anthony Campbell

to be named the permanent chief because he’s doing “a great job.” He did argue that the city needs to do a better job encouraging the formation of block watches.

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3/20/17 3:05 PM

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

African American Women’s Summit

8:30am - 3:00pm

Sunday March 26 @ 7pm

TickeTS STarT aT $17 ThiS nighT only!

Beecher Magnet School (rear entrance)

Free Admission HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AGENDA:

INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS at 9:00 a.m Activism and international social justice will be discussed at the workshop: #StandWithCongo – Helping To Grow The Congo Peace Movement Through A Movie and Action



PANEL DISCUSSION at 11:00 a.m “Uniting our Community Through Activism and Social Justice" with panelists: DR. Khalilah Brown-Dean, Clifton Graves, Esq., Inner City News Editor-in-chief Babz Rawls Ivy, State Representative Robyn Porter and Community Activist Gary Tinney

African American Youth Summit @ N00n



Featuring Spoken Word Presenter Amber Shanel. Amber is an Author, Spoken Word Artist, Motivational Speaker and Mentor Coordinator. Publishing her first book “Love when it hurts so bad but it feels so good” in 2014, Amber Shanel has been a voice to understanding lessons learned and identifying self worth.

G AT L O N

on sTAGE THru ApriL 9

100 Jewel Street, New Haven, CT

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T H E AT R E

Saturday, March 25, 2017

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Join us for New Haven

“Uniting our Community Through Activism and Social Justice”

sMArT PEOPLE

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

“Fly Jock” To Marshal Freddy Fixer

SCSU_GOH_InnerCity_5.472x5.1.qxp_Layout 1 3/9/17 2:18 PM Page 1

The hardest working man in radio is slated to serve as the grand marshal for the 2017 Freddy Fixer parade. The parade committee announced on its Facebook page on Sunday that nationally syndicated host and radio legend Tom Joyner will serve as the grand marshal for the May 21 event. It’s another feather in theMARCH cap of parade organizers, the Elm City FOURPLAY Freddy Fixer Parade Committee, Inc., which announced Liverecently in Concert! FRIthe green light to host the revithat the parade has been given APRIL talized parade again this year. The ECFFPC hasWHITE been granted a PETER SPECIAL DOUBLE BILL! starts at special events license from the city for the parade, which special guest LINDSEY WEBSTER 1:30 p.m. SAT Joyner, best known for his nationally syndicated Tom Joyner MAY MARION Morning Show, is a native of Tuskegee, Ala. andMEADOWS a graduate of the & PAUL TAYLOR former Tuskegee Institute, now SATTuskegee University. He has been in the radio business for more than 30 years, and his foundation, JUNE CANDY DULFER The Tom Joyner Foundation, has raised more than $60 million for SPECIAL DOUBLE students at historically black colleges and universities.BILL!

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

LEAP Leaps Into Prom Season

The following was submitted by LEAP Director Henry Fernandez. In LEAP’s 25 years working with teens, we have learned that they really look forward to prom. We also know that not every teen can afford the costs of a dress or suit, haircut and tickets; especially if they are also saving money for college. So last year we started a new annual tradition – LEAP’s Prom Drive. It is a great way for you to do something awesome for New Haven teens while creating a little more closet space for yourself. For the next three weeks, LEAP’s Prom Drive is accepting lightly used prom clothing that we will make available for free to New Haven public high school students. You can donate dresses, tuxedos, suits, shoes and accessories. It does not have to be a prom dress or tuxedo—bridesmaid dresses, cocktail dresses and business suits work just as well. You can drop off clothing at the LEAP Community Center at 31 Jefferson St. in New Haven. We are the large red brick building located on Jefferson between Lyon Street and Grand Avenue. We are willing to pick up donations if necessary

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

LEAPers JC Leana and Leandrea Mitchell at 2016 prom.

but drop off is greatly appreciated. We are also asking for businesses to help out. Already, a few barber

shops, beauty salons and nail salons have donated their services. You can also make a small monetary donation—$10, $20, $50, $100 or any amount—to help cover costs for a tailor to make alterations (which most dresses will need). Donations to LEAP are tax deductible. Just let us know that your donation is for the prom drive by including a note. Please join us in making prom a night to remember for even more New Haven teens. From April 17 to April 21, we will set up appointments for teens to look through donations confidentially with us to find clothing that fits. Teens do not need to be in LEAP to receive clothing through the LEAP Prom Drive. They should just give a call to LEAP at (203) 773-0770 to set up an appointment. If you have a question, need to arrange a pickup, or have a business and want to contribute, please let us know by contacting Yakeita Robinson or Shyrelle Spears at LEAP at (203) 773-0770 or via email at yrobinson@leapforkids. org or sspears@leapforkids.org so we can work out any details. You can get more information about LEAP’s Prom Drive at

Learn To Swim

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A LEAPer learns to swim.

The following was submitted by Elvert Eden, director of youth development and aquatics at LEAP. LEAP provides swim lessons for a fee for children and adults who want to learn to swim or who already know the basics but want to improve their skills. Classes start March 27, 2017. Currently LEAP provides class for children ages 5 to 15, and adults 18 and up. All participants may take swim classes whether they are in LEAP’s regular programs or not. Swim classes are provided at our pool at 31 Jefferson Street in New Haven. You can sign up for either Mondays & Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. Children classes run for 45 minutes

starting at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m., and adults swim every Monday & Wednesday at 8 p.m. The full five week program (10 total classes) costs $100 per child and $120 per adult, and must be paid in advance. Discounts are not given if you miss a class. You can pay at the front desk at LEAP via check or with cash. Checks can be made payable to “LEAP”. You can sign up for swim classes by stopping by the LEAP office, and filling out an application and waiver form for your child. To make things easier, print out and fill out the form beforehand. You can also give us a call to see what times and spaces are still available: (203) 773-0770.

African American Women’s Summit

“Uniting our Community Through Activism and Social Justice”

Saturday, March 25, 2017 8:30am - 3:00pm

Beecher School (rear entrance)

100 Jewel Street, New Haven, CT

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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"A First of a Kind:

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017 Con’t from page 8

Mesa Verde's Bos’n"

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brent Pyfrom

NORFOLK, Va. - There is always a first. In the Navy so many firsts are spoken about that they become test questions. Well here’s one more first, the Navy’s first African-American, female Boatswains Mate (BM) chief warrant officer; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Summer Levert. Levert is assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) as the ship’s Bos’n. The ship’s Bos’n is an officer who is the subject matter expert on all major seamanship functions and the maintenance of topside gear such as; small boat operations, supervising anchoring, mooring, replenishment at sea, towing, transferring of personnel and cargo, and the operation and maintenance of ship’s boats. She is depended on by the ship’s captain to execute major seamanship evolutions safely and maintaining the external upkeep of the ship. Levert, a Cleveland native, began her military service in the Army National Guard in 1997, and was assigned to a military police company. After her time with the National Guard was completed, she decided to join the Navy, and in October of 2000, become a boatswain’s mate. After making chief petty officer in 2011, Levert wanted more from her career and set her sights on becoming a chief warrant officer. In 2014, she applied to the chief warrant officer program and was selected. “Coming up as a junior Sailor in a male dominated field I knew there would be times I’d have to prove to them that I deserved to be there as much as they did,” Levert said. “There were times I felt I had something to prove or that I wasn’t strong enough, and now by looking at what I have accomplished

thus far I realize that the only thing to prove was that goals can be reached through hard work and perseverance.” When achieving success there are always obstacles to overcome. Some obstacles are harder than others, but Levert, an African-American woman, continued to use her family, friends and mentors for inspiration to get her where she is today. “My first inspiration was my twin sis-

ter, who was also a BM in the Navy, but had joined before me. My second inspiration is my mom, who was an Army nurse in the reserves, and then there were the Bosn’s that I worked for and observed throughout my years as a BM. They were the smartest people I knew. They taught me my job so well that I thought they read Naval Ships’ Technical Manuals in their sleep. They were respected everywhere they went,

and I knew that it was well deserved. That’s what I wanted to be in my wildest dreams.” According to multiple Sailors on Mesa Verde; Levert is the Bos’n she’s looked up to throughout her career. Her leadership echoes throughout the ship and can be seen and heard during any boat operation; one can hear her calling out orders and making sure Sailors comply with safety procedures. It’s safe to say that deck department has a female leader who knows what it takes to achieve mission and personal success. “Bos’n is very humble. She believes in hard work and effort; and only desires to be measured by her character and deed,” said Lt. Alvin Weidetz III, USS Mesa Verde’s deck department head. “Woe betides the Sailor, junior or senior, that steps out of line or throws safety to the wind. But at the end of every evolution, Bos’n will count heads ensuring all are safe and sound, laud each and everyone for their efforts and encourage their improvements to do better.” In December of 2015, she received a plaque of recognition for her service from her hometown U.S. Representative, Marcia L. Fudge, which she viewed as a great honor. At the end of the day Levert has made Mesa Verde and Navy history, but it’s not the past that motivates her; it’s the Sailors’ and their futures. “My Sailors motivate me. Not the fact that I’m the first this or that. Through all the madness, the long days, and feelings of wanting to give up, I always think about the young Sailors that tell me how much they admire me, how much they want to be like me someday. If I quit they’ll think it is ok to quit and that’s not the message I want to send.”

Rosalind Cash: Renowned Singer, Actress & Original Member of the Negro Ensemble Company by BlackThen.com Intelligent and spunky Rosalind Cash was an American singer and actress who often played strong black female roles in Hollywood. Her best known film role is as Charlton Heston’s character’s love interest Lisa, in the 1971 science fiction film, The Omega Man. To soap opera audiences, she is best remembered as Mary Mae Ward on General Hospital from 1994 to 1995. Cash was born on December 31, 1938 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She was the second of four children. She graduated with honors

from Atlantic City High School in 1956 and later attended City College of New York. Cash appeared in the 1962 revival of Fiorello! and was an original member of the Negro Ensemble Company, founded in 1968. In 1973, she played the role of Goneril in King Lear at the New York Shakespeare Festival alongside James Earl Jones’s Lear. She appeared on numerous television sitcoms, including What’s Happening!!, Good Times, Barney Miller, Benson, Police Woman. Cash was nominated for an Emmy Award for her work on the PBS production of Go Tell it On the

Mountain. In 1996, she was posthumously nominated for an Emmy Award, Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, for her role on General Hospital. Cash also supplied the voices of Sesame Street Muppet Roosevelt Franklin’s mother and sister, Mary Frances, on the 1970 record album The Year of Roosevelt Franklin, Gordon’s Friend from Sesame Street. Rosalind Cash died of cancer on October 31, 1995; she was 56. sources:https://www.britannica. com/biography/Rosalind-Cash http : / / w w w.i mdb.c om / name / nm0143614/bio

signature drinks made with shrubs, according to team captain Jessica Rose. Rose didn’t mean those plants growing in your yard, but the the handcrafted drink mixers that are created with fruits and sugar to make a vinegar syrup that can be mixed with club soda. The idea came from the team’s interaction with the owners of the Union League Cafe, whose Chef Jean Pierre Vuillermet serves as a mentor to the culinary team. Vuillermet’s wife, Robin, and Robin’s sister, Cheri McKenzie, serve as mentors to the management team. In addition to coming up with a restaurant concept, they have to create a design layout for the restaurant, a menu and a marketing strategy, and be able to justify the choices they’ve made before judges. The design work that the team does is often done with the help of other teachers at Wilbur Cross like technology teacher Anthony Latella. Rose, a 15-year-old sophomore, is a young team captain but Bradshaw said she got the job because of her hard work and dedication. “The key is a lot of research,” she said of the work the management team does. Bradshaw said students who participate in the culinary arts program, particularly the ProStart teams, tend to have a certain level of focus and dedication. Some of them have to navigate the city bus system, a two hour trip for some, just to get home after practice. When teams from Wilbur Cross first started making it to national competition five years ago, they finished 41st. Last year they finished 13th. Bradshaw is looking forward to this year’s competition, but what he’s most proud of are the life and leadership skills that the students who come through the program gain that they can use. He’s also proud of the opportunities they receive to go to school. He said he and all the teachers and mentors who assist with the teams put in the work because the students put in the work.“It’s a lot of work,” he said. So why would teenagers give up their time after school and subject themselves, on purpose, to such stressful conditions? “It’s just fun,” Luis Galindo, 18, said.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

America’s Middle Neighborhoods: Neighbors on the Edge of Growth and Decline By Congressman Dwight Evans (PA-02)

Ever heard the term middle neighborhoods? If you haven’t, you have likely visited, lived in or driven through one more recently than you think. Middle neighborhoods are communities on the edge of growth and decline. When we discuss middle neighborhoods we are describing neighborhoods that have four main characteristics: neighborhoods where homeowners can purchase real estate for an affordable rate, neighborhoods where crime rates are low, neighborhoods where school performance is sufficient, and neighborhoods where employment rates are adequate. Essentially, homebuyers in middle neighborhoods are willing to test the odds with the hopes that their neighborhood will improve rather than decline. Middle neighborhoods are areas that are doing just well enough. We are not focusing as much resources or attention on these neighborhoods because we have yet to see an increased need to invest in these areas. However, if we aren’t careful these neighborhoods will teeter towards decline overnight.

In Philadelphia, over 40 percent of the population lives in middle neighborhoods. When talking about middle neighborhoods in Philadelphia’s Second Congressional District we are referring to: Mt. Airy, Germantown, West Oak Lane, Roxborough, and

Wynnefield. I know firsthand what is at stake for America’s middle neighborhoods. I grew up in North Philly and today I live in West Oak Lane just blocks away from Germantown High School, my alma mater.

Two main trends are contributing to decline in our middle neighborhoods. One, housing trends show that jobs are moving away from middle neighborhoods and second, many suburbs compete with new homebuyers for residents. This brings us to the question: what are some ways we can counter these trends to help America’s middle neighborhoods? As a former Chairman of the Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee, I fought hard to expand access to healthy, fresh foods for everyone in our city and across our state; and supported efforts to provide adequate funding for our public schools. The first bill I introduced in the 115th Congress, the Rehabilitation of Historic Schools Act of 2017, H.R. 922, would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow public school buildings to qualify for the rehabilitation credit which in turn would give our public schools the necessary resources and funds to make improvements to school buildings across the country. In my district, Roosevelt Elementary School in East Germantown has not been updated in decades. How can we expect our students to better them-

selves when their classrooms are falling apart around them? We need a public school system that supports the needs of our students, teachers and parents. Our students already have a lot on their plates, and shouldn’t have to worry about going to school on an empty stomach. Thus, when we think about the issue of food insecurity in our middle neighborhoods we need to look for ways to broaden access to fresh, quality, affordable foods for people in our most underserved areas. During my time in the Pennsylvania State Legislature, I championed Pennsylvania’s Fresh Food Financing Initiative which links public and private funds to expand and build grocery stores in food deserts across our state. Through the initiative we brought nearly 100 grocery stores to areas in Philadelphia and underserved areas across the commonwealth that previously had very limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Our middle neighborhoods need a clear lane in both our public policy and investment conversations. We need to be cognizant and incredibly vigilant as this relates to housing trends that are Con’t on page 20

Black Pearl Media Works, New Film Projects Black Pearl Media Works produces artistic, entertaining, profitable media that explores humanity through the lens of black cultures worldwide.

Emmy award winning independent filmmaker, Dante James is pleased to announce the formation of Black Pearl Media Works, LLC (BPMW). The multi-media production company has received partial financing for two projects; a feature length documentary, God of The Oppressed and a series of dramatic short films, In Our Own Words. “It has taken many years to marshal my own resources and cultivate a relationship with an investor who understands the importance of resources from black financiers,” James said in discussing the challenges facing black filmmakers. “We believe this approach will shield projects grounded in our history and culture from the ‘filters’ that often come with resources from entities outside of our community, James said. For many years, I made films for PBS, however as a black man, independent filmmaker and activist coupled with the challenges black people face I’m committed to making the strongest, and most creative statements possible in my films. For me that was not possible with PBS. I’m not criticizing PBS or rejecting resources from outside our community but artistic and editorial control is a prerequisite. My new proj-

ects are representative of my desire to explore humanity through the lens of the black experience ‘unfiltered’ by the dominate culture.” In Our Own Words, presents a creative chronicle of the African American experience through short stories by iconic and lesser-known black writers, some of whom could not get past the publishing ‘filters’ they encountered. The concept for the series is grounded in self-definition paired with concerns regarding the degrading, shallow images of African Americans, that are too prevalent in corporate controlled media. Unfortunately, many of these images are created by black people. “Now with new means of distribution, liberated black filmmakers have opportunities to redefine the images of black people. Too often the view of black life is demeaning and perverted to the point that it has become the perception of who we are and that perception is literally and figuratively destroying us. More accurate definitions of who we are can be found in our literature,” James said. Black writers have defined their own world, moving beyond the traditional definitions often imposed on them. The short stories of In Our Own Words will be selected by outstand-

ing African American literature scholars, Maryemma Graham, Ph.D. and Joycelyn Moody, Ph.D. The first film of the series, THE DOLL, based on a short story by Charles W. Chesnutt was completed several years ago. It was awarded best dramatic short at the Hollywood Black Film Festival. Through the stories of Nat Turner,

Bishop Henry McNeil Turner, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Rev. Traci Blackmon and others, God of the Oppressed will explore Black Liberation and Womanist Theology. Stories, characters and gospel music will celebrate and frame a perspective of God within the context of an oppressed people. Prof. James Cone, author of the book,

God of the Oppressed, will serve as chief academic advisor. Cone argues for a theology constructed from the experiences of black people who understand God’s role in liberating those crying for the pain to end. He challenges theologians to abandon the white system defining the meaning of God. Cone’s work challenges black men and women to listen to the voices of black people to construct a theology framed from their experiences. Rev. Carl Kenney, a black liberation theology minister will be a co-producer. Kenney said. “Let my people go, is the age-old cry of black people holding to the claim that God loves the oppressed. Black theology isn’t passive it fights for freedom while refuting claims of inferiority.” God of the Oppressed is an extension of Dante James’ work as the executive producer of THIS FAR BY FAITH, the final series from Blackside Films. Both projects will begin pre-production immediately, however BPMW is seeking additional investors/partners with those who recognize the domestic and international profit potential of these projects, appreciate black culture and literature and are concerned about the shallow interpretations of black Con’t on page 20

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Legendary Sister Sledge Singer,

Joni Sledge, Dies At 60

Madam C.J. Walker’s Life Headed for Big Screen, Product Line Revived by Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO

by Aria Ellise, BlackDoctor.Org Joni Sledge, the singer bestknown for “We Are Family,” has died at the age of 60. According to CNN, Sledge, who formed Sister Sledge with her three siblings in 1971, was found unresponsive by a friend at her home in Phoenix, Arizona, her publicist, Biff Warren, said. The Sledge family was shocked by her death as she had not been ill, Warren said. The cause of death is still unknown. On Saturday night, her family released news of Joni’s death on Facebook: “Yesterday, numbness fell upon our family. We are saddened to inform you that our dear sister, mother, aunt, niece and cousin, Joni passed away yesterday. We miss her and hurt for her presence, her radiance, and the sincerity with which she loved and embraced life.” The group had still been touring around the country and was slated to perform in Los Angeles next week. In 1971, Joni and her three sisters Debbie, Kim and Kathy formed the group Sister Sledge in their

hometown of Pittsburg, due to their harmonies and melodies that seem to come naturally. The group became famous in 1979 with the Grammy-nominated “We Are Family,” written by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers of Chic. The song celebrated family, became a staple at weddings, family reunions, barbecues and more. The song was even adopted as an unofficial anthem by the Pittsburgh Pirates during their 1979 championship season. We Are Family” peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 and topped the R&B and disco charts, Billboard said. The album of the same name reached No. 3 on the Billboard 200. The group was also known for “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” “Lost in Music” and a cover of the Motown classic “My Guy.” In recent years, the sisters were estranged from lead singer Kathy, and were performing separately. Sledge is survived by her adult son, sisters and other family. Our hearts go out to her family, friends and fans. She will be missed. We truly are family! Rest in peace, Joni!

On the eve of Madame C.J. Walker’s 150th birthday celebration (December 23, 1867), her renaissance comes through with the relaunch of her revolutionary haircare line and a 10part television series of her life. Despite being a household name for more than a century, the life of Walker remains slightly elusive and yoked by conjecture, conflation, and rumor. Considered the first self-made, Black female millionaire, Walker (born Sarah Breedlove), however enigmatic, established a hair care system that revolutionized the beauty culture industry, and simultaneously manufactured an economic stronghold within Black communities that undergirded respectability and race pride. Walker’s great, great-granddaughter and author of the biography On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C.J. Walker, A’Lelia Bundles, told the AFRO that the renewed interest in the millionaire coincides with a desire among Blacks to reclaim lost narratives. “My own research and discovery process is reflective of a lot of others’, which was like Alex Haley’s “Roots.” As people discover their place in American history, they demand recognition and acknowledgement and I think that is where we are now,” said Bundles, who initially wanted an identity removed from her famous ancestor. “But as I discovered how Madam Walker fit into history; how she was a part of the transformation of African Americans from slavery to freedom, and then to empowerment, I was able to positon myself and other member of my family.” Walker created specialized hair products for Black women, beginning in 1906, and promoted the products through lectures and demonstrations across the country. And far from the conjecture that she invented the straightening comb or chemical hair relaxer, Walker’s pomades were devised to combat a common balding pattern experienced by Black women due to scalp infections. “Madam Walker was going bald due to hygiene practices that were common for that era. It was revolutionary to convince Black women

Madame C.J. Walker (Courtesy Photo) A’Lelia Bundles is the great, great-granddaughter of Madame C.J. Walker.

to wash their hair more often when most people didn’t have indoor plumbing. It was before penicillin and aspirin and insulin and so many basic things that we take for granted now. So, skin and scalp care was way down on the priority list for health concerns,” Bundles said. “But when people didn’t bathe very often and didn’t wash their hair but maybe once a month or not at all during the winter, they had horrible skin infections beyond dandruff. What she did was encourage them to wash their hair more often and then apply an ointment that contained sulfur petrolatum (the main ingredient to Vaseline) – used for centuries to heal infections of the skin. With their scalps treated, healthy hair could grow back.” Now, 111 years after Walker found-

ed The Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture company, the products once more create the same buzz among hair culturists. Available at Sephora stores nationwide, the mission of the line remains largely the same: quality ingredients to improve and maintain textured hair. “The thing I love about the new products is that they really pay homage to Madam Walker. When she developed her vegetable shampoo and hair grower in 1906, and put her own image on the label she was determined to have a high-quality product with the best available ingredients in a product that really worked,” Bundles said. “What we’ve learned in the last 100 years, petroleum and heavy ointments are not good for the skin and clog pores. So, we no longer use the sulfates, silicones, and sulfurs. We have the spirit of Madam Walker integrated with the latest ingredients using science and technology . . . and they really smell fabulous.” And just as the celebrations over the revived product line erupted, Bundles received word that the biography she penned in 2002 of her great, great-grandmother, piqued the interest of Hollywood A-lister Octavia Spencer. Despite having been optioned twice before, Bundles said that with shifts in the Hollywood machine following the Oscars So White protests, the floodgates of interest reopened – this time with backers. “Late last summer, Octavia Spencer came aboard to portray Madam Walker, but she also said she wanted to come on with the 10-part series Con’t on page 20

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Trump Administration Targets Immigrants By Barrington M. Salmon, NNPA Newswire Contributor

In recent weeks, squads of officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have descended on communities from the suburbs of Langley Park, Maryland, and Austin, Texas to the city streets of Brooklyn and Queens, New York and Los Angeles, California. Armed with new powers, ICE agents swept into the homes, living spaces and workplaces of undocumented immigrants, stopped them at roadblocks and checkpoints and unceremoniously remanded men, women and young people to jail cells. The Trump Administration released two memos, recently, that strengthen ICE powers, igniting fears that the administration would ratchet up efforts to detain and deport undocumented immigrants, even those who’ve committed no crimes. Franklin Garcia, a Washington, D.C. shadow representative, said that he’s never seen or experienced what’s playing out in the various local immigrant communities he represents. “The two new memos have everyone anxious. No one is secure,” said Garcia, a longtime activist and former president of the D.C. Latino Caucus. “I came here in 1980 and I’ve never seen anything like this. People are saying they don’t know if they should go to work. Children are scared that they’ll come home from school and their parents will be gone.” Garcia continued: “They have criminalized immigrants. I have heard horrific and horrible stories. If you commit a crime or if you’re just suspected of that, you can be deported. The administration wants to reduce the number of immigrants in this country and we’re simply not going to stand for it. We’re not going to abandon this country. The solution is to fight.” Immigrant communities are caught up in the maelstrom, reeling from the steady assault from the president and certain administration officials who have relentlessly disparaged all immigrants, documented and undocumented, and who have now put that animus into public policy. President Donald Trump described the crackdown on immigrants as a “military operation.” Two memos in the executive order broadened the parameters of the Obama administration provisions that allowed for the arrest and deportation of immigrants convicted of serious crimes, who had crossed the border into the U.S. recently and were considered threats to national security. What is often forgotten, a New York University professor and longtime Harlem resident said, is that words

written on a piece of paper deeply affect human beings who have experienced dislocation and are often entangled in a lifelong struggle to belong. “I live in Harlem on a street that has become known as ‘Little Senegal,’” said the Jamaican professor, who spoke under condition of anonymity in the interest of protecting family members who are undocumented. “I came here as a grad student. There used to be burned out buildings. These Sub-Saharan residents shifted the community to one that is now very chichi’ with Starbucks, and all that stuff.” The professor continued: “They are facing so much anxiety. I hear them in the hallways. They talk about it constantly. It’s fear like you’ve never seen before. People are afraid to go to the hospital, and when they do, sick sometimes close to death, they beg the nurses not to say anything.” The professor, who is also an artist and author, said that ICE agents in New York City have also picked up Jamaicans and other Caribbean people, Sub Saharan Africans, Latinos and others, stopping the dollar cabs and checking the papers of Black and brown people who happened to be caught up in the immigration spot checks. In the after-

math of the raids, the streets are noticeably absent of the usual throngs of people going to and fro. “It hits home so much. It’s very sad,” the professor said softly. “These people on my block don’t really bother anybody. Talk about hardworking. They transformed all these burnt out buildings, opened restaurants and textile stores; then the developers came in and rebuilt. These are the sort of people Donald Trump is going to run out of town. On Tuesday February 21, Retired Gen. John Kelly, the newly installed secretary of Homeland Security, announced that undocumented immigrants would be deported if they have been convicted or just charged with a criminal offense. This includes having “abused any program related to receipt of public benefits,” or “(having) engaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in connection with any official matter before a governmental agency.” Kelly tried to reassure the public that there would be no mass deportations and that the military would not be used to round up undocumented immigrants but that has done little to assuage the fears of those who would be most directly affected.

White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer also insisted that the new memos would not trigger mass deportations, but said in a February 23 press briefing that with these measures in place, ICE’s hands have been untied and the agency is now able to carry out its stated mission and enforce the law. Not everyone being enlisted to target immigrant communities is agreeing to take part in this renewed immigration effort. New York Police Department Commission James O’Neil issued a statement to rank-and file on February 22 that NYPD officers will not enforce any administrative warrants issued by the feds that come from the expansion of deportation policy. “It is critical that everyone who comes into contact with the NYPD, regardless of their immigration status, be able to identify themselves or seek assistance without hesitation, anxiety or fear,” O’Neill said. Other police chiefs and city officials have taken a similar stance. Meanwhile, those in immigrant communities have been pushing back by participating in loud and vocal protests, holding rallies and lifting their voices against what they describe as “a callous and dispassionate policy that is doing more harm than good,” and that in the long-term will harm not just immigrants, but the United States as well. One such form of resistance was the “Day Without Immigrants” protests held across the Washington metropolitan area and cities and towns across the country on Thursday, February 16. According to media reports, between 30,000 and 50,000 protesters marched in Milwaukee, Wisc., in February. It’s still unclear how many immigrants—

legal and undocumented—took time off for the protests, but those who took part and other supporters said the goal was to send the Trump Administration and the country the message of the importance and impact of the all immigrants in the United States. Rolando Roebuck, an Afro-Latino activist from the Washington, D.C. area, castigated President Trump for using the issue of immigration to propel his candidacy. Trump’s cynical strategy, Roebuck said, has been particularly effective in portraying immigrants as the cause of economic decay in the U.S. “His portrayal of migrants as propagators of crime has intensified the xenophobia in this nation,” said Roebuck. “He intentionally masks the positive contributions migrants have made. This group—and I’m not talking about the Pilgrims—have made significant impacts throughout history.” Roebuck continued: “But he’s been very selective as he paints Black and brown people as ‘bad hombres.’ The xenophobia and stealth levels of racism have created serious problems and polarization in the U.S. The fight needs to be sustained and the various affected groups need to overcome historical disunity in order to create a strong front.” Coalescing around common issues, Roebuck said, may be the difference between success and failure. “We can’t rely on the judiciary to be advocates in defense of immigrants,” he said. “We have to create effective political strategies to eliminate from the political landscape those people who’re anti-us.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

3rd annual

YOUTH SUMMIT

SUPPORT OUR CAUSE!

WHEN

Please help us make this an enjoyable and memorable event for both our veterans and youth.

Thursday, March 16th 2017 Friday, March 17th 2017 10:00am – 4:00pm both days WHERE

Southern Connecticut State University The Veterans Empowering Teens through Support (V.E.T.T.S. TM) Mentoring Program is hosting a 2-day summit open to ALL High School Students. The goal of this special retreat is to support youth in planning their future. Students will explore different career paths, college opportunities, and vocational tracks. *Meals will be provided *We are in the process of arranging transportation

Donations can be made at our GoFundMe page: gofundme.com/vettsyouth-summit2017 Thank you!

Parents and Guardians can Register ONLINE now at: http://tinyurl.com/VETTS-Summit-2017

FEATURING • College Info Sessions • Campus Tours • Career Fair • Resiliency & Empowerment Workshops• Team Building Activities • Fun Prizes • Guest Speakers

OPEN HOUSE GATEWAY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

APRIL 1, 2017

Summer 2017 Classes Begin

Session I: Session II: Session III:

May 31 - June 16 May 31 - June 29 July 5 - August 3

10:00 AM TO 2:00 PM CAMPUS TOURS. MEET FACULTY. FREE ADVISING.

Fall & Summer Registration Starts April 10, 2017 Fall classes begin August 29th

GATEWAYCT.EDU • (203) 285-2010 • 20 CHURCH STREET, NEW HAVEN, CT 21

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Innovative Integrated Wellness Group VETTS™ program Kicks off 3rd Annual Teen Summit 2017

by ICN Staff

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

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HOURS: 10AM TO 10PM • 7 DAYS A WEEK

off

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

High school students from New Haven, Bridgeport, and the surrounding area flooded in through the doors of Davis Hall at Southern Connecticut State University on the morning of March 16th and 17th, 2017. The 3rd annual VETTS™ Teen Summit was about to ensue. Veteran mentors and staff from Integrated Wellness Group waited enthusiastically to get the 2-day youth summit underway. This was not a seminar, or a formal lecture; instead this was an opportunity to impact and inspire the life of High school students in our community, right here in the heart of New Haven! Students attended for a variety of reasons. For many teenagers, the VETTS™ Teen Summit had a lot more to offer than just a day off from school. VETTS™ a program of Integrated Wellness Group has been working in the community to address the needs of at-risk youth and urban trauma for the last four years. The VETTS™ program and the Teen Summit took into consideration the issues and circumstances that African American and Latino teenagers face on a daily basis. The summit goals were simple: to empower and motivate the teenagers in attendance to break the cycle of poverty and the issues that many in urban communities’ face. It challenged them to go above and beyond the expectations that society has placed on them. Many genuine stories by invited speakers highlighting struggle, poverty, abuse, crime – all leading to success. This is exactly what our youth need to hear! Speakers provided youth with the tools necessary to overcome what once stood in their way. Young people

were encouraged to break barriers. Speakers such as, Roberta Hoskie gave her personal testimony. She even offered students full scholarship to attend the Outreach School of Real Estate, which she Ms. Hoskie founded. Detective Shayna Kendall spoke to the young ladies attending the summit on the power of choices. Her rise through the ranks at the New Haven Police Department inspired the ladies to know their worth and to accept nothing less. Mr. Shelton Tucker spoke to the male students discussing issues Black and Brown men face daily. Mr. Tucker challenged the young men to decide on their own future and to dismiss the negative peer pressure they may face. The youth were also introduced to college campus life, including FraCon’t from page 16

Black Pearl Media Works

experiences. Media inquiries and interested investors should call Dante at 919-475-9879 or email him at dante@ blackpearlmw.com. Job applicants can apply a www.blackpearlmw.com. In closing James stated, “these projects will require producers, directors, actors, screenwriters and other production personnel. Hopefully, they will be a vehicle to put our people to work telling stories that explore our experiences from our point of view. I also see this work and this new company as a connection to my friend and mentor the late Henry Hampton.”

ternities and Sororities, and were encouraged to explore various career options in Business (entrepreneurship), Information Technology, Trade schools, Culinary, and a possible career in the U.S. armed forces. Leandre Crandell a student at Creed High School left highly motivated and is looking forward to next year. “When I left on Friday I was forced to think to myself what it is I want in life? I showed up with a bad attitude, but I could not help but shake it off. These people at the VETTS™ program and IWG really care about us. They helped me realize that my destiny is in my hands, and it helps to know that they have my back. I wish I had brought my friends.” Con’t from page 16

America’s Middle Neighborhoods:

impacting our city. Middle neighborhoods are home to real people like you and I. Now is the time to refocus, redistribute and reinvest our attention on building a policy agenda that puts America’s middle neighborhoods back on top. Congressman Dwight Evans is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and represents Northwest, West, North, parts of South and Center City Philadelphia, Narberth and the western suburb of Lower Merion Township. He serves on the House Agriculture Committee and House Small Business Committee. To learn more about Congressman Evans’ work in Congress please visit his Facebook,

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Same of the Most Powerful African American Women

Con’t from page

Madam C.J. Walker’s Life

as a producer. That took the project to another level when she made that type of commitment,” Bundles said. “Since 1975 I’ve been doing speeches, writing books, and from the beginning the two things people would always ask me where can I purchase the hair care line and is there a movie of Madam Walker’s life and I always had to say, ‘no.’ Now I’m so happy to say that all of the pieces have fallen into place.” Nicole Asher (Coco) has signed on as scriptwriter with Kasi Lemmons (Shots Fired, Eve’s Bayou) taking the reigns as director. Walker, born the daughter of slaves,

was orphaned at seven, married at 14 and widowed at 20. She died of hypertension in 1919, at age 51, as the sole owner of her business, which was valued at more than $1 million (about $14 million in today’s money). “Madam Walker personified that first generation out of slavery, who moved to the city, but in her case it became something even more unusual because she was able to start a business and to provide jobs for thousands of women who were then able to educate their children and buy real estate and go on to do other things,” Bundles said.

These Bonds may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time an Official Statement is delivered in final form. Under no circumstances shall this announcement constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the Bonds in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. The Bonds will only be sold by means of an Official Statement.

NEW ISSUE

$750,000,000*

State of Connecticut $550,000,000* General Obligation Bonds (2017 Series A) $200,000,000* General Obligation Refunding Bonds (2017 Series B) The Honorable Denise L. Nappier Treasurer of the State of Connecticut

Retail Order Period* Institutional Pricing* March 27, 2017 March 28, 2017 Expected Tax Status*

Delivery Date* April 19, 2017

Interest on the General Obligation Bonds (2017 Series A) and the General Obligation Refunding Bonds (2017 Series B) is double tax-exempt for Connecticut residents.**

Further information on these Bonds can be obtained online at: The Forbes Magazine, in its 18th version of the yearly “Most Powerful Women” list, included a few #black women amongst its top fifty-one selection. There were, however, two Georgian women who dominated over the rest as the most powerful executive in their respective organizations. #Rosalind Brewer, the President and CEO of Sam’s Club was ranked 15th. Sam’s Club is a Walmart division. She becomes the first woman to hold the CEO post at Sam’s Club and doubles up as the first black woman to hold the post, too. Brewer was awarded her undergraduate chemistry degree at Spelman University. She later obtained her MBA at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. The second African-American woman, #Ann-Marie Campbell was listed at number 37. She is the President of the Southern Division of Home Depot. Campbell undergraduate and MBA degrees were earned from the Georgia State University. She started off her twenty-year construction and home improvement company career as a cashier in 1985. Her story is termed as a real tale of working one’s way to the peak. Rosalind Brewer and Ann-Marie Campbell are not new entries into the list as they also featured in the 2014 version. Brewer retained her position while Campbell had gained by one ranking, up from position 38. http://blackamericaweb.com/2015/09/18/little-known-black-history-fact-african-americans-among-forbesmost-powerful-women/

www.buyCTbonds.com or by calling (877) 552-8266 or contact any of the firms below. Citigroup

Rice Financial Products Company

(855) 644-7252

(888) 740-7423

Raymond James & Associates, Inc. RBC Capital Markets (877) 295-9116

(800) 243-2478

Academy Securities

Baird

(203) 561-2768

(800) 792-2473

Cabrera Capital Markets, LLC

Estrada Hinojosa

(800) 291-2388

Jefferies

(800) 567-8567

Prager & Co., LLC (800) 336-4020

The Williams Capital Group, LP (877) 924-6864 Barclays

(212) 528-1061

J.P. Morgan

(800) 676-5352

(855) 231-8873

Loop Capital Markets

Piper Jaffray & Co.

(888) 294-8898

(800) 552-0614

Roosevelt & Cross Incorporated Siebert Cisneros Shank & Co., LLC

Stern Brothers & Co. (800) 288-2471

(800) 726-0971

(800) 334-6800

William Blair (800) 269-9889

**Preliminary, subject to change. **Before purchasing any Bonds, contact your tax advisor to determine any applicable federal, state and local tax consequences.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 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

American Industries is hiring CDL drivers for our fleet of 2017 Mack Granite Tri- Axle Dump trucks for the up coming paving season.Applicants must have a clean driving record and be able to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Experienced in tri-axle dump truck is helpful, but willing to train the right candidates. . Applications are available at

American Industries Inc.

630 Plainfield Rd Jewett City, CT 06351 Job Type: Full-time Preferred experience: • Tri-axle Dump truck w/ paving: 1 year Required license or certification: • Current CDL License and Medical Card Class A Driver

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

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; Email: HR@redtechllc.com Mail or in person: 173 Pickering Street, Portland, CT 06480. RED Technologies, LLC is An EOE.

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

TOWN CLERK ASSISTANT TOWN CLERK - Assists in the administration and supervision of the

Town Clerks Office. Supervises clerical workers and others assigned. Position requires H.S. graduation or GED and 6 yrs. experience office work of which one (1) year involved supervision. College level training in business or public administration or related field may be substituted for work experience on the basis of one (1) year of college for one (1) year of work experience up to four (4) years. Must possess and maintain State of Connecticut certification as a Municipal Clerk within three (3) years of hire. Salary: $23.52 to $28.48 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Personnel Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. The closing date will be that date the 75th application form/resume is received, or March 15, 2017, whichever occurs first. EOE

New Reach Inc., with its Managing Agent DeMarco Management Corporation are pleased

to announce that applications are being accepted March 15, 2017 through April 28, 2017 for the Geller Commons Apartments located at 135-145 Sanford St., Hamden, CT. We have spacious one-bedroom units. Amenities include all new appliances, handicap accessible units, heat and hot water is included. Geller Commons is a smoke free community. Certain program and income limit restrictions apply. Applications are available at DeMarco Management Corporation, 117 Murphy Rd, Hartford, CT 06114 or you can request an application either by phone (860)951-9411 email at: compliance@demarcomc.com or by AT&T relay service by dialing 711. All applications must be returned to DeMarco Management by midnight on April 28, 2017. **APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AT THE PROPERTY** Project Financed by Connection Housing Finance Authority Equal Housing Opportunities

New Reach Inc., con su Agente Gerente DeMarco Management Corporation, se complace en anunciar que las solicitudes serán aceptadas entre el 15 de marzo de 2017 y el 28 de abril de 2017 para los Geller Commons Apartments ubicados en 135-145 Sanford St., Hamden, CT. Tenemos amplias unidades de un dormitorio. Las comodidades incluyen todos los electrodomésticos nuevos, unidades accesibles para discapacitados, caliente y agua caliente está incluido. Geller Commons es una comunidad libre de humo. Ciertas restricciones de límites de ingresos y programas se aplican. Las solicitudes están disponibles en DeMarco Management Corporación, 117 Murphy Rd, Hartford, CT 06114 o al (866) 951-9411 correo electrónico: compliance@demarcomc.como por servicio de retransmisión AT & T marcando 711. Todas las solicitudes deben devolverse a DeMarco Manejo a medianoche del 28 de abril de 2017. ** APLICACIONES NO SERÁN ACEPTADAS EN LA PROPIEDAD ** Projecto de Finanzas por CHFA Igualdad de Oportunidades de Vivienda

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 22, 2017 - March 28, 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. ALL DEPARTMENTS PARTICIPATING IN THIS RECRUITMENT DRIVE

ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS.

The Glendower Group, Inc Request for Qualifications

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK FOR RENTAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM PORTFOLIO- Group III The Glendower Group, Inc an affiliate of Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm city Communities is currently seeking Proposals for Construction Manager at Risk for Rental Assistance Demonstration Program Portfolio.. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 3:00 PM, EST.

ACCOUNT CLERK

El Sr. Housing de St. Luke’s, con su Agente Gerente DeMarco Management Corp., se complace en anunciar que las solicitudes serán aceptadas entre el 29 de marzo de 2017 y el 3 de mayo de 2017 para el Sr. Vivienda de St. Luke’s ubicado en 120 Goff St., New Haven, CONNECTICUT. Tenemos unidades espaciosas de un dormitorio. Las comodidades incluyen todos los electrodomésticos nuevos, unidades accesibles para discapacitados y todos los servicios públicos están incluidos. Se aplican restricciones de límite de ingresos. Las solicitudes están disponibles en DeMarco Management Corp., 117 Murphy Rd, Hartford, CT 06114 o al (866) 951-9411 correo electrónico en: compliance@demarcomc.com o por servicio de retransmisión AT & T marcando 711. Todas las solicitudes deben devolverse a DeMarco Manejo a medianoche del 3 de mayo de 2017. ** APLICACIONES SE ACEPTARÁN EN LA PROPIEDAD EL JUEVES DE 12-3: 30 PM. Funding is provided by Housing and Urban Development Igualdad de Oportunidades

Performs a wide variety of accounting clerk duties for a busy municipal government office. The position requires 4 years of related work experience and a H.S. or business School. $22.23 to $26.99 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Personnel Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/ resume is received, or March 22, 2017, whichever occurs first. EOE

CDL CLASS A TRACTOR TRAILER DRIVER NEEDED. F/T SEND RESUME: GWF@SNET.NET OR CALL 860-274-9668 Thank you, Susan

Elm City Communities Request for Proposals Energy Consultant Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm city Communities is currently seeking Proposals for Energy Consultant. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems. com/gateway beginning on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at 9:00AM

THE COVENTRY HOUSING AUTHORITY St. Luke’s Sr. Housing, with its Managing Agent DeMarco Management Corporation are pleased to announce that applications are being accepted March 29, 2017 through May 3, 2017 for the St. Luke’s Sr. Housing located at 120 Goffee St., New Haven, CT. We have spacious one-bedroom units. Amenities include all new appliances, handicap accessible units and all utilities are included. Income limit restrictions apply. Applications are available at DeMarco Management Corporation, 117 Murphy Rd, Hartford, CT 06114 or you can request an application either by phone (860)951-9411 email at: compliance@demarcomc.com or by AT&T relay service by dialing 711. All applications must be returned to DeMarco Management by midnight on May 3, 2017.

**APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE PROPERTY ON THURSDAYS FROM 12-3:30 PM. Funding is provided by Housing and Urban Development Equal Housing Opportunities

Pre-applications for waiting list at Orchard Hill Estates I & II Housing Complex will be accepted until June 30, 2017. To qualify, you must be at least 62 years old or disabled by Social Security. Current income limits are determined by the Office of Housing and Urban Development. Interested parties may pick up an application online at coventryct.org, or at 1630 Main St., Coventry, CT 06238 or have one mailed by calling 860-742-5518.

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.

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

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport

Laborers/Pipe Layers

Currently seeking laborers/pipe layers; 5 years min. exp., OSHA 10 preferred. Please forward resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 10 Northwood Dr., Bloomfield, CT 06002; Fax 860.218.2433; visit RED for an application or Email resumes to info@redtechllc.com. RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

Construction Inspector (temporary) – Town of Manchester $30/hr - 40 hrs/wk approx. 20 wk duration CLOSING DATE: Friday, March 17, 2017 Call HR Recruitment Line at (860) 647-3170 for info or view website: www.townofmanchester.org.

Fireﬁghter/Paramedic – Town of Manchester

$54,496.45 Paramedic Lic./CPAT cert. req’d CLOSING DATE: March 31, 2017 Call HR Recruitment Line at (860) 647-3170 for info or view website: www.townofmanchester.org

The GUILFORD HOUSING AUTHORITY is currently accepting applications

for COUPLES ONLY for its one bedroom apartments at Guilford Court and Boston Terrace in Guilford CT. Applicants must be age 62 and over or on 100% social security or federal disability and over the age of 18. Applications may be obtained by calling the application line at 203-453-6262, ext.107. An information packet will also be provided with the application. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2017. Credit, police and landlord checks are procured by the authority. Smoke free housing. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HOUSING

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 Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer American Industries is hiring CDL drivers for our fleet of 2017 Mack Granite Tri- Axle Dump trucks for the up coming paving season. Applicants must have a clean driving record and be able to pass a preemployment drug and alcohol screening.Experienced in tri-axle dump truck is helpful, but willing to train the right candidates. .Applications are available at

American Industries Inc.

630 Plainfield Rd Jewett City, CT 06351 Job Type: Full-time Preferred experience: • Tri-axle Dump truck w/ paving: 1 year

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

Required license or certification:

• Current CDL License and Medical Card

The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT

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

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

Facilities Manager – Portland, CT:

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.

Class A Driver 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; 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 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

Think You Don’t Make Enough To Save?

Founder Of Brown Girls Do Invest Tells You How

Ruthie Hawkins, BlackDoctor.org Contributor “I’m not earning enough to save!” “Saving is easier said than done.” Sound familiar? Well, per Bahiyah Shabazz, Founder of Shabazz Management Group, LLC, Fabulous & Money Savvy and BROWN GIRLS DO INVE$T, there are many misconceptions surrounding saving. Recently, BlackDoctor.org had the opportunity to chat with the financial expert and author, whose background includes finances and psychology. Shabazz provides helpful tips for those saving it for a rainy day no matter where they are in the savings game. “Let me begin by saying for people who feel they do not earn enough to save, everyone earns enough to save,” said Shabazz. “It does not matter how much you earn. It matters how much you can put away.” She continued, “Saving is more psychological than physical.” “If you tell yourself you’re not going to save, of course you are going to believe that you cannot save,” Shabazz said of having a negative mindset around budgeting and saving. Meanwhile, Shabazz said you can achieve getting over this misconception by adding saving into your monthly plan, better known as creating a budget. You have to see exactly where your money is going, explained the money maven.

“If you allow your money to run all over the place, it will disrespect you and you will not have a great relationship again.” So, where do you start? First, Shabazz suggests writing down all of your expenses. According to Shabazz, people take for granted what that means. “When you write down all your expenses, I mean everything,” Shabazz said. In her words, “If you are going to the gas station and you are mesmerized by the nickel candy at the checkout line, you pick that up – you must write down everything that comes out of your household.” Yes, ladies, that also includes girlfriend time. “If you’re just going to go out for drinks, you literally should write that down as well,” Shabazz added. Once you have written everything down and are keeping track of everything that is coming out of your household, Shabazz stated you may be surprised to see where that money is going and how much you could actually put away in savings. While tracking expenses is a good starting point, even more important is creating a budget and sticking to it. “A budget is crucial,” said Shabazz, “because it helps you be consistent with your savings plan.” The same way you write down your goals and keep track of them every day, week or monthly, you should apply that same mentality to your budget if you want to

be a successful saver. “Either you use it or you lose it – that budget will hold you accountable for every penny.” Of course, if you’re always on the go, there’s a variety of tools at your disposal, conducive to both the iPhone and Android. If you’re unable to keep track of your expenses in a simple Excel spreadsheet, Shabazz highly recommends the free Mint app. Mint allows you to track your expenses to the dollar and connects directly to your checking account, especially helpful for folks who don’t hold onto their receipts. As for how much to save, while the rule of thumb (in the past) has been to aim for about 3 to 6 months – in the event of job loss, as finding employment often takes a year or longer for many – Shabazz advises saving one year of living expenses including rent, car note, insurance, you name it. She cautions, “Now you’re not going to be able to save one year’s worth of living expenses in one year. But if you jot down a plan and come up with 36 months, then stick to it.” Once you get to a place where you can save, Shabazz’s most important advice is to keep saving. Don’t just get ahead, stay ahead. Great food for thought. For more information on Shabazz’s services and her company, BROWN GIRLS DO INVE$T, check her out at BrownGirlsDoInvest.com or on Instagram: @GirlsDoInvest.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS March 22, 2017 - March 28, 2017

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