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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Financial Justice a Key Focus 2016 NAACP Convention State Employee EyesatGovernor’s Office New Haven, Bridgeport

INNER-CITYNEWS Volume 27 No. 2231 Volume 21. No. 2194

Dixwell Crossroads Goes From “G” To “K”

“DMC”

Malloy Malloy To To Dems: Dems:

Ignore On Crime” Ignore“Tough “Tough On Crime” “Don’t Give Up On Love” MC Lyte Gets Engaged:

Rolling Out the Red Carpet For African American Women, and Building Something Massive Together (For Us and By Us!)

Color Struck?

What About

Snow in July?

The Union’s Role?US ON FOLLOW

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Ed Board Votes To Publicize Plan For Raids

by CHRISTOPHER PEAK NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Is publicizing the way the city’s public schools will respond to a federal immigration raid a reassurance to families they’ll be protected from the Trump administration? Or an overreaction sure to shake them with fright?

Board of Education members addressed that question Monday night, after reviewing draft language on how administrators would handle a visit or raid by U.S. Immigrants and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.

Despite one parent accusing them of fear-mongering, the five board members present unanimously voted to publicize the district’s plan to shield schoolchildren from deportations.

The district’s website will now include protocols explaining, in detail, how the superintendent will handle a visit by ICE officials and a list of contacts at each school who can field complaints of bullying or harassment and assist with finding local resources for legal aid, mental health or other services. The webpage will also answer 10 frequently asked questions about how students’ citizenship status affects their education, among them: Q: What impact does immigration status have on my child’s education?

A: None. All children have a constitutional right to receive free public education regardless of their immigration status or their parents’ immigration status. This right cannot

CHRISTOPHER PEAK PHOTO

Maria Harris: “Wrong perception of right and wrong.”

be taken away by the President or the state or federal legislatures.

Q: Will immigration officials come to our schools?

A: As of today, current federal policy guidelines prohibit immigration enforcement activities in schools. The administration has confirmed that it is still following this guidance and therefore immigration enforcement actions should not happen. However, if ICE officials visit or make requests of NHPS, the district will follow internal protocols to ensure that your child is protected.

Q: What would happen to my child

if I am detained and/or deported?

A: We strongly recommend that you keep all emergency contact information updated with your child’s school. The district is not authorized to release your child to anyone, even if they are a close family member, without prior authorization from the parent.

The move to formalize the district’s plans began a week before Donald Trump’s inauguration. In mid-January, Will Clark, the school system’s operations chief, presented the board with draft policies for responding to a raid. Then, in April, with help from Junta for Progressive Action, St. Rose of Lima Church and

others, Clark compiled additional information into an FAQ. Monday’s vote gave him formal approval from the board.

The new policies weren’t without controversy. One parent, Maria Harris, complained during public testimony that the board had doubly erred. On one hand, Harris said, she doesn’t want to see tax-paying immigrants fearful they’ll be booted out of the country. On the other, she said, she also wants law-breakers to recognize there should be consequences for residing in the country illegally.

“I really think that you guys are giving off the wrong perception on

what’s right and wrong,” she said.

“For the families that have done it the right way or are born citizens, you guys are not making them feel they’re needed here or they’re wanted here.”

After the meeting ended, Harris told the Independent she feels torn on how the federal government should handle illegal immigration. “It’s so touchy,” said the first-generation Cuban-American. Her views aren’t abstractions, either: A little over a decade ago, the government deported her ex-lover to Jamaica, following his arrest.

Enforcing the law was the right move, she said. “If you’re doing something wrong, I just feel that you should not be made comfortable,” Harris added, “because you just make it hard for the other people who are here doing the right thing.”

The board members sharply disagreed. Darnell Goldson said he has “no qualms” in supporting protections for undocumented immigrants in Elm City schools. What’s legal isn’t always what’s moral, he argued, as the example of slavery proved. Dr. Carlos Antonio Torre agreed. “Illegal immigration in this country started in 1492,” so why start doling out punishment only now? he asked.

No one knows the exact number of undocumented students in New Haven’s public school system, since district rules prohibit officials from requiring anything more than proof of residence, like a utility bill or library card, for admission.

State Employee Eyes Governor’s Office

by Christine Stuart CT. Junkie News

HARTFORD, CT — While most of the candidates eyeing a run for governor in 2018 are only exploring the idea, Glastonbury resident Betheona ‘Bethy’ Guiles-Smith said she’s all in.

The state employee who works in the Office of the State Building Inspector said she filed her paperwork last week and intends to run for the Democratic Party’s nomination.

Guiles-Smith, 51, said she’s focused on helping the middle class

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Betheona ‘Bethy’ Guiles-Smith

and small businesses, who often go ignored by state policymakers.

She said middle class residents who fall on hard times shouldn’t have to worry about filing for bankruptcy and should be able to access help. She said it’s not fair that low-income residents who receive benefits from the federal government such as Section 8 housing vouchers get a hand up and the middle class that contributed tax dollars to fund the program get nothing.

Guiles-Smith, who said she will start fundraising in earnest after a meeting with the State Elections

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Enforcement Commission to go over the basics, doesn’t believe working full-time for the state and running a gubernatorial campaign will be a problem. She said she’s juggled a number of responsibilities in the past such as working full-time and earning a master’s in social work from the University of Connecticut.

As long as she’s not campaigning on state time, then it shouldn’t be a problem, she said.

She said she would devote nights and weekends to the endeavor. She said she also has a bank of about 67 vacation and sick days she’s

never used because she’s a selfdescribed “workaholic.”

Guiles-Smith is a member of the Glastonbury Democratic Town Committee, but has never held elected office. She said she worked hard to get Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy re-elected.

She said she’s anxious to engage voters on the issues.

She joins an increasingly crowded field of candidates.

Those who have filed paperwork to explore a run for the Democratic nomination include state Comptroller Kevin Lembo, former Consumer Protection Commis-

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Budget Critics Warn Against Reliance On Struggling State

by THOMAS BREEN NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Weeks before the city has to finalize and approve a new fiscal year budget, a handful of government watchdogs expressed their deep concerns that the proposed budget relies too much on expected aid from a state on the brink of financial disaster.

Such was the prevailing sentiment at an hour-long public budget hearing held by the Finance Committee of the Board of Alders at City Hall on Monday night.

Although the aldermanic chambers were crowded with city employees waiting for a closed-door executive session meeting later in the evening about union negotiations, only a half-dozen citizens testified before the committee, which has spent the past few months holding hearings on the mayor’s proposed $554.5 million operating budget for Fiscal Year 2017-18. The Board of Alders must approve a final city budget by the end of the month.

Nearly every speaker Monday night expressed concern over the dissonance between the proposed budget’s expectations and the likely realities of aid from the state of Connecticut. The mayor’s budget expects an increase of $31 million in state aid next year, while the state itself recently announced that it is staring down a $5 billion budget hole over the next two years, which will could result in layoffs, givebacks, and dras-

THOMAS BREEN PHOTO Alders

at Monday night’s budget hearing at City Hall.

tic cuts to municipal aid.

“It’s critical that you study the mayor’s budget requests very carefully and spend wisely within the city’s means,” said Abigail Roth, a former downtown alder who’s running for her old seat again. “I believe the mayor’s budget is overly optimistic about the funding that we will receive from the state.”

Earlier this month, state financial analysts announced that income tax revenues are down $413 million this fiscal year, and are expected to be down nearly $1.5 billion over the next two years. Much of that short-

fall comes from significantly lower tax collections from the state’s top 100 taxpayers, reported CT NewsJunkie.

“While we have a strong delegation in Hartford, a political breakdown at the state is closer than it’s been in years,” Roth continued. “We have to be really conservative about how much we think we’re going to get from Hartford, and, given the state of play at the federal level, we can’t rely on significant amounts of money flowing from Washington D.C.” Local activist and philanthropist Wendy Hamilton agreed, interspers-

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ing her calls on the city to levy more taxes on Yale University with frequent references to the state’s budget crisis.

“The AP wrote another article yesterday about how Connecticut is broke and they’re going to have to fire 1,000 workers or more” she said, “and that Governor Malloy is seeking $700 million in givebacks from state employees. Good luck with that.”

Budget watchdog Ken Joyner called the proposed budget’s reliance on dramatically increased state aid negligent, wishful thinking.

“Today the mayor announced that we should pass Plan A, which is this current budget that overestimates revenue from the state by at least $12 million,” he said. “And then we should plan for Plan B, in the event that the state does not come through with the expected aid. We reject this approach.”

The governor’s initial budget that was announced earlier this year pledged $245 million in state aid to New Haven, while the mayor’s budget expects $257 million from the state.

Joyner called on the alders to pass a continuing resolution to extend this year’s budget for an additional 30 days, so that the city could wait until the state finalizes its own budget by the end of June before committing to any more state aid projections.

He also expressed concern over rising city personnel costs, and cautioned against laying too much credit or blame for the city’s financial status at the feet of struggling state coffers.

“Whatever the final aid package may be,” he concluded, “it is apparent from past performances that the city will plan to spend every dime it receives on recurrent personnel cost.

It will defund the rainy day fund.

It will continue to over-spend and over-borrow its budgets. And it will blame the state of Connecticut for its shortfall.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 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

_______________________

Contributors At-Large

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

Memberships

National Association of Black Journalist National Newspapers Publishers Association Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce Greater New Haven Business & Professional Association Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc.

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EXCEPTIONAL NEW HAVEN TEEN WINS YOUTH OF THE YEAR

HONOR FROM BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF NEW HAVEN Z’hane Ellison to Now Vie for State Title and Scholarship

New Haven, Connecticut April 28, 2017 – Selected among five other outstanding youth, Z’hane has been named the Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Club of New Haven for second time. The Youth of the Year title is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle. Now in its 70th year, the Youth of the Year program honors our nation’s most awe-inspiring young people on their path to great futures and encourages all kids to lead, succeed and inspire.

Z’hane will go on to vie for the Connecticut Youth of the Year title and a $5,000 college scholarship from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

“I am honored to be selected again to serve as Youth of the Year for my Club. I am looking forward to being a voice for my peers.” Z’hane Ellison. “The Youth of the Year candidates make me incredibly proud

each year. I know their stories and how much each of them has overcome to reach their goals. It also highlights the impact of our work with youth and their families. The parents and staff are beaming with pride each year. These young people truly inspire all of us.” Stephanie Barnes, CEO.

Z’hane has been a Club member at the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven for over three years. Though she started off as a shy and reserved young lady, Z’hane has matured into a confident young woman. “My experience at the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven continues to help my sisters and I grow and improve our

PAUL BASS PHOTO Ira Johnson.

jured parties and the media.

Part of this statement is true and can be confirmed. We know it took almost six months to inform the media, or maybe the media had the information but did not release the information until the investigation was completed. [Editor’s note: The Independent published an article last Aug. 10 based on initial limited information that was available.]

I understand the importance of the union, but I am confused. The young lady who was arrested for transferring information to her device, I understand that she was fired during her probation period of employment. If she was fired and was not

leadership skills.” Z’hane comes to the Club each day to mentor the younger members. She enjoys facilitating the Fashion Club, a fashion design workshop for Club members she created. Z’hane is a committed member of the Keystone Club, which is a leadership program for teens which provides opportunities to participate in activities that focus on Academic Success, Career Preparation and Community Service.

Z’hane is a senior at Sound School in New Haven, where she continues to receive high honors. She was recently accepted to several colleges and has decided to attend the University of New Haven in the Fall of 2017 to major in their Biology and Pre-Med program.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year recognition program is presented by Disney, who has supported the youth advocacy organization for more than 50 Con’t on page 7

What About The Union’s Role?

by IRA JOHNSON

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

(Opinion) After reading the article from one of my mayoral opponents, Marcus Paca, although I respect him I must disagree with him on several points concerning the health and data breach within the city of New Haven.

Mr. Paca states that the most important thing we know is that the city of New Haven took six months to notify the victims of the breach that their information was compromised as well as the press. Federal guidelines and best practice require a 60-day notice period for both in-

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part of the union, why was the union steward instructed to accompany this fired employee back into her former workplace? If to be part of the union, you must pay dues, seeing that Ms. Jackson, the fired employee, was not a union member — what made them protect her? Bottom line, it has nothing to do with the city or the union. What matters is that the city residents were put at risk, and the city did not protect them.

The city has made several statements of being bullied, by the union, which I fully disagree with if this statement is true. Why does the city depend on Yale University to bail them out every time they get in trouble? On a personal note, being a mayoral candidate, I chose to focus on getting support from the residents instead of other politicians, because it is a known fact that if you look for support from them then you will owe them a favor, and the only ones I will owe is the residents alone.

By the city and Mr. Paca looking for support from a political perspective, it gets to a point of who will you favor— the union, politician, or the residents?

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Democratic Lawmakers Defend Citizens Election Program

by Christine Stuart CT. Junkie News

HARTFORD, CT — Connecticut’s current budget crisis should not be used as an excuse to gut the Citizens Election Program, a group of Democratic lawmakers and good government advocates said Tuesday.

Republican legislative leaders included the elimination of the CEP in the budget they released at the end of April and will include it in their revised budget proposal expected to be released Friday.

Democratic legislative leaders and Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy are also looking at revising their budgets by Friday.

Tom Swan, executive director of the Connecticut Citizens Action Group, said he feels Republicans are playing games by trying to eliminate the program. But it wasn’t that long ago that Democratic legislative leaders were talking about suspending the program for 2016 to help close a $350 million budget deficit.

“We don’t want to go back to Corrupticut,” Swan said. “Seeing the cost of corruption — we still pay for it today.”

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE

Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, was elected under the system in its maiden year.

He pointed to the $57 million Connecticut Juvenile Training School, which is slated to close in July 2018. The Department of Children and Families facility was built by William Tomasso, a state contractor whose close ties and gifts led to the resignation of former Republican Gov. John G. Rowland. Rowland eventually plead guilty to a conspiracy charge.

“The cost of John Rowland’s corruption lasts to this day,” Swan said.

In 2005, with Rowland behind bars, the Connecticut General Assembly and former Gov. M. Jodi Rell approved the Citizens Election Program, which allows candidates to raise small donations of between $5 and $100 in order to receive a larger state grant that can be used to help fund their cam-

paign.

Swan said he’s confident Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who was the first candidate in 2010 to qualify for public financing, “will not allow this to be in the final budget process.”

Swan said he’s certain Malloy doesn’t want his legacy — as the first governor ever elected under the system — to include the destruction of the same clean elec-

tion system.

But Republican lawmakers say it has nothing to do with the clean election system and everything to do with Connecticut’s current fiscal crisis. “We don’t have the money for it,” House Minority Leader Themis Klarides said Tuesday.

Senate Republican President Len Fasano, R-North Haven, said even though he voted for the program in 2005, the landscape has changed.

“The state cannot keep up with managing funds for a program that is a mere shadow of the original bill and is no longer an effective tool in keeping elections clean as we’ve seen in recent years,” Fasano said. “I voted for and still support the CEP in its original form.

If the Democrats were receptive to the reforms Republicans have proposed in the past to restore the CEP’s integrity, then I wouldn’t be suggesting cutting the program now.”

He said he’s open to talking about restoring funding if Democrats were open to closing the loopholes they created in the law over the years.

Rep. Andrew Fleischmann, DWest Hartford, who served before Con’t on next page

$5 Million Buys Chapel Street Bridge 20 More Years

by ALLAN APPEL

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

The current two-week closure of the 25-year-old Chapel Street bridge that spans the Mill River is a foretaste: Later this summer and into the fall two more bouts of closures — each at least twice as long if not more — are in store.

Here’s the payoff: All the preventive repair work combined with a new paint job could make the span last 20 more years.

That’s the word from City Engineer Giovanni Zinn, who explained the current closure is a response to the regular biannual inspection reports done by the state of Connecticut’s Department of Transportation bridge safety group.

The inspections highlighted corrosion that kept popping up, Zinn said.

The current work addresses that problem through preventive maintenance, along with replacing some electrical and mechanical elements.

“It’s what you’d expect from a bridge built 25 years ago, when you’re in a salt water environment that’s very harsh on steel,” Zinn said.

The city will next replace a plastic

and aggregate mixture that constitutes the filling of the deck. Zinn said that after the winter his staff noticed the deck deteriorating faster than expected. All that fill will

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be blasted away and replaced with more durable concrete, then covered by a lightweight polymer overlay.

The deck replacement phase, which is in the last stages of being bid, should require about four to six weeks of closure, Zinn estimated.

The work will commence in the middle or end of June.

Finally, in late summer, expect about eight weeks of closing as the bridge gets painted. Zinn said the bridge needs to be painted in the open position and the work done within a contained over-structure to blow away the current paint, so it’s a big project. Fortunately the bridge, built in 1992, has non-lead paint, so among the many plans Zinn has to work out — including coordinating waterway passage with the Coast Guard throughout the various closures — lead flakes blowing about and causing pollution is not one of them.

The entire project is estimated to cost $5 million. The city will be hiring all the contractors. Once those

contracts are made, the state-administered Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) and the state DOT’s Local Bridge Program will provide grants to cover most of the cost. LOTCIP is slated to cover $3 million. The city and the Local Bridge Program will split the balance of $2 million, of which the city will contribute $1 million.

“We’re looking to have 20 more years through this preventative work,” Zinn said.

The city has two other movable bridges it takes care of, Ferry Street and Grand Avenue. Zinn said his department is approaching the final design of the long-awaited re-do of the Grand Avenue bridge, which was built in 1895 and rehabbed in the 1980s. That work will likely not commence until Chapel Street is complete.

“Of our three movable bridges, we want two of them in working condition,” Zinn added.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017 Con’t from page 6

the Citizens Election Program, said the dynamics of the building changed under the program and there’s no reason the state should consider going back.

Before the CEP there were industry players and lobbyists who were able to bundle campaign contributions and had “major, major influence in all ways and in all debates in this building.”

He said the best example he could give involves school food and drink menus.

“We wanted healthy food for kids in school,” Fleischmann said. “We couldn’t get it through before the clean election system.”

He said when they were finally able to get the healthy school food legislation passed, it was a watershed moment.

“In the end for the first time healthy foods won,” Fleischmann said.

Ending the Citizens Election Program means going back to a system where there is “undue influence by those with money and the power to bundle money for campaigns,” Fleischmann said.

Republicans have also made proposals in the past to reduce the amount of money lawmakers receive for their campaigns.

House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, said by passing the CEP the General Assembly made a promise to its constituents that “they would have the ultimate impact on our elections.”

He said the idea was to be “beholden to the constituents.”

Aresimowicz, who narrowly won his re-election this year by a few hundred votes, said he would not be in favor of going back on that promise.

Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, said the Citizens Election Program is more important than the way that they talk about it.

He said when he first ran for office he wasn’t able to run because he had good ideas. He was able to run because there was a system that allowed him to participate.

“This opens up politics to people who don’t have access,” Winfield said.

The measure was passed with bipartisan support. In 2005 it passed 27-8 in the Senate and 82-65 in the House.

Con’t from page 6

TEEN WINS

years, empowering young people to reach their full potential and providing youth with access to the tools they need to build the great futures they imagine. Toyota, the Signature Sponsor of Youth of the Year, is dedicated to inspiring the next generations of engineers, thinkers and leaders who will help drive the American economy. Additional support is provided by University of Phoenix, a committed partner who has worked with Boys & Girls Clubs of America on many Academic Success initiatives, and the Taco Bell Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier partner for teen empowerment.

If Z’hane Ellison wins at the state competition, she will compete for the title of Northeast Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 college scholarship, renewable for four years up to $40,000.

Five regional winners will advance to Washington, D.C. in September 2017, to compete for the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of $25,000, renewable each year up to $100,000 and will have the opportunity to meet with the President of the United States in the White House.

For more information about the Youth of the Year program, visit www.youthoftheyear.org.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Dixwell Crossroads Goes From “G” To “K”

by MARKESHIA RICKS

Never known to do things the traditional way, Karaine “Kay” SmithHolness cut a ceremonial ribbon that was, in fact, a brightly colored track of red weaving hair.

Everybody who knows Smith-Holness has a story about how her. Most of the stories are about some generosity, about the role she plays in New Haven’s West Indian community, or kindness she’s shown them in the 26 years that she’s been styling hair.

With reggae and soca pumping and sounds of the Caribbean flowing, on Sunday her friends, family, and clients gathered to tell some of those stories and celebrate the Jamaicanbred stylist and owner of Hair’s Kay as she cut the “ribbon” on her new salon at 320 Ashmun St. If the salon’s new home looks familiar, it should. The space used to belong to the Red Café Ultra Lounge, and before that, the Cardinals Café.

Most recently, it was an outpost of the G Café, which opened as part of an overhaul of the intersection of Ashmun, Henry and Munson streets nearly two years ago to develop the apartment complex above the salon, Ashmun Flats.

Smith-Holness, who opened Hair’s Kay at 143 Fitch St. 22 years ago, was looking for a change—something smaller, more intimate and modern.

Her friend Jackie Buster, of Wow! Creative Group brought her to Ashmun Street and declared, “This is your salon space,” Smith-Holness told the crowd gathered in front of the salon Sunday.

“This new space is amazing,” she said. It was made amazing with the help of Haiti-native Georges Clermont of Elm City Pallet Design and students from Riverside Education Academy. Smith-Holness kept the beautiful tiled floor, white subway tile, and chalkboard from the space’s days as a café. But in addition to adding all the trappings of a salon such as sinks for washing hair, dryers and styling stations, an eco-chic vibe was added thanks to wooden pallets that were repurposed to provide accents throughout the salon, including an entire wall covered in the pallet wood to resemble shiplap.

“When I stand and I look at the wall they created for me it actually brings me back to the place where I was born,” she said “And so even when standing behind a chair 14 hours a day, it brings me back to that time in my life and why I need to continue

MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO

SSmith-Holness christens new salon at the former G Cafe.

Smith-Holness and her daughters.

Sgt. Jackie Hoyt (at right in photo),

with Mubarakah Ibrahim: “Nope! This is Dixwell!”

Smith-Holness receives praise from longtime client Carol Galloway…

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being who I need to be.

“When you go in see my amazing wall, talk to Georges and Ron, they used pallets—things that are thrown away, often like our communities,” she added. “But you can see from things that are discarded there is so much beauty. Always look for the beauty no matter how ugly it seems.

That’s what the salon does for me. It keeps saying ‘We’re beautiful, we’re wanted, we’re needed, we’re part of a community.”

Mayor Toni Harp, who is a client and friend, said that Hair’s Kay is one of the places where she gets to truly let down here hair.

“It’s one thing to be her client,” Harp said. “It’s another thing to be in the group of people that share food after everybody is gone, and she let me join that club. I was so thrilled that she actually treated me like a person.

So often when you’re in public often people treat you like you’re an office and not a human being. But Kay understood that I’m a human being too. It makes all the difference in the world.”

Harp also applauded Smith-Holness’ role as a leader who excels at bringing people together. SmithHolness is a founding member and president of Jamaican American Connection (JAC) of New Haven Inc., which promotes West Indian culture. She also is a founding member of the New Haven Caribbean Heritage Festival and organizer of an annual women’s retreat to Jamaica called Sistahs Jammin’.

“I think that I was so honored and privileged when I first met Kay,” Harp said. “What’s great about her is all of you. She brings people together. I would say that the greatest thing that a person can be is a conjunction. And Kay is a conjunction.

She knows all of the people and she brings everybody together to benefit each other. I am so thrilled I got to be her client.”

“The other thing about Kay is she is a leader. She’s a natural leader,” Harp added. “She leads certainly the Jamaican American Connection, and she makes certain that everyone who has even the least taste of Jamaican in them is a part of it. But beyond that, all of the Caribbean people in the area look up to Kay as their leader and someone who helps them understand their relationships with this community and how important it is for them to participate so that they can feel like they too are America.”

St. Lucia-native Christine BartlettJosie could attest to that. When she

moved to New Haven 20 years ago from New York City with its large, well established, tight-knit Caribbean community, she was reluctant. So much so that in the early years here she would pack up and spend entire weekends in the city. But while managing one of State Sen. Gary Winfield’s earlier races she kept hearing about a woman named Kay, or as her daughters would later call her, even before Bartlett-Josie met her, “Aunty Kay.” “They never called anyone in New Haven that,” she said. “It was instant.

When I finally did meet her it was interesting because she knows all these people that I also know, but we haven’t connected. But I swear I’ve known her all my life.”

Bartlett-Josie once she met SmithHolness and then began to participate in events like the festival and Caribbean Heritage Month at City Hall, she found that community in New Haven that she thought only existed in New York.

“Through her, I’ve found this whole new community and this whole new family,” she said. “My children say, ‘Mommy, why didn’t we know Aunty Kay years ago?’ Kay has this way of bringing everybody together.”

Smith-Holness’s new salon location might have a hand in bringing more people together Dixwell and Newhallville. State Rep. Robyn Porter said she was claiming it for Newhallville. Dixwell’s top cop, Sgt. Jackie Hoyt, said, “un uh.”

“We’ll call it Newhallville-Dixwell,” Porter said.

“It is what is,” Hoyt said with a laugh.

“Dixwell!”

No matter which neighborhood claims the shop it sits right on the Munson-Henry border of the two Porter said the community would benefit.

“This community is going to be tremendously blessed for having not just this shop, but having the spirit of Kay in the neighborhood,” she said.

“It’s not just the hair here. It’s about your heart and your condition. She’s a therapist and doesn’t know it.”

She’s also a daughter who makes her mother pretty proud, too.

“I’m so happy and I’m so proud,” Smith-Holness’s mother, Yvonne, said. “Everywhere I turn, you make me proud. From day one.”

Smith-Holness said after all the well wishes that she was speechless.

“That never happens,” she said with tears in her eyes.

Lest We Forget: THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Preserving Memories of WWI at New Haven Museum

New Haven, Conn. (May 9, 2017) –When fresh-faced Hamden, Connecticut resident Robert Remington and the rest of New Haven’s 102nd Regiment arrived in Seicheprey, France in late 1917, it was assumed that the green soldiers would slowly acclimate themselves to modern warfare. In the predawn hours of April 20 1918, German Stormtroopers struck. In what became known as the first U.S. engagement of World War One (WWI), Remington was bayonetted in the stomach. He died on May 1, shortly before his 19th birthday. Thanks to the Connecticut State Library’s “Remembering World War One” project, Remington’s story, and the photos and papers collected by his descendants, have been digitized and archived for future generations and are currently on exhibition at the New Haven Museum.

The preservation continues on Wednesday, May 24, 2017, from 3 to 7 p.m., as Connecticut residents are invited to bring their WWI photos, letters, medals and mementos to the New Haven Museum (NHM) for scanning, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the U.S. entry into the “Great War.” The digitization event has been made possible in part by the Connecticut State Library, and a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor.

Christine Pittsley, the project manager of “Remembering World War One,” notes that the preservation of these sorts of materials is important in building awareness of the events that led to the war. She explains that with WWII following so soon afterward, many of the people and events of WWI were forgotten. She cites an example where a German private, Emil Hoffman, was captured during the war by Merritt Learned, of Meriden; the two kept in touch after the war. In a letter to Learned in the 1930s, Hoffman expressed gratitude to “our fuhrer Adolf Hitler. He has given us all jobs.” Pittsley says that the stories of WWI also help explain how the world became as it is today, noting that the decimation of the German economy in WWI laid the groundwork for Hitler, and his jobs.

The materials also tell of angst on both sides of the Atlantic. Pittsley

cites writings of a New Haven soldier recounting how his mother was unable to buy sugar because of her German origin. She also tells of periodic joyful news emerging during the “Remembering World War One” digitization events, including one man’s story of how his grandparents originally met on a boat while heading home after the war.

Remington’s story became known when his niece, Bernice (Remington) McNeil, of North Haven, brought her uncle’s photos and papers to a “Remembering World War One” digitization event earlier this year. McNeil noted that her uncle, the youngest of 15 children, was one of five brothers who fought in the WWI. He was initially buried in France, and his remains were later exhumed and reinterred in Hamden’s Centerville Cemetery. Though her uncle’s name was among those enshrined on a memorial in the Hamden Town Hall years ago, McNeil is grateful she was able to share his story, and that it is now part of the permanent record of those involved in one the deadliest conflicts in human history. Indeed, WWI led to more than 17 million deaths and 20 million wounded.

Roughly 63,000 Connecticut residents served in the U.S. or Allied forces.

Connecticut is the only state doing a statewide digitization event of this scale. The Connecticut State Library “Remembering World War One” digitization project welcomes photos and keepsakes from the men and

women from around the world who served. Digital images of the objects will be made available online and preserved in the Connecticut Digital Archive. The only prerequisite for inclusion in the project is that participants are Connecticut residents and that their items relate to WWI. As word of the project spreads, interest builds, Pittsley says. From public school programs to the capstone project of Southern Connecticut State University journalism students, to assisting with promotion of the upcoming film, “Sargent Stubby: An American Hero,” by Fun Academy Motion Pictures—Connecticut is embracing, and finally fully acknowl-

edging, the humanity of WWI. New Haven Museum will display nine photos and two small books loaned by McNeil, “The Soldiers French Phrase Book (1918) and “Infantry Drill Regulations - United States Army, (1911), in the museum rotunda during the month of May. McNeil may eventually donate her uncle’s photos and papers to the New Haven Museum collection for safekeeping. Anyone interested in donating their photos and mementos to the NHM archives is invited to talk with museum staff during the “Remembering World War One” event or by contacting the museum for more information.

About the State Library: The Connecticut State Library is an Executive Branch agency of the State of Connecticut. The State Library provides a variety of library, information, archival, public records, museum, and administrative services to citizens of Connecticut, as well as the employees and officials of all three branches of State government.

The Connecticut State Archives and the Museum of Connecticut History are components of the State Library.

Visit the State Library at http://ctstatelibrary.org.

About the National Endowment for

The Humanities: Created in 1965 as an independent federal agency, the National Endowment for the Humanities supports research and learning in history, literature, philosophy, and other areas of the humanities by funding selected, peer-reviewed proposals from around the nation. Additional information about the National Endowment for the Humanities and its grant programs is available at: www. neh.gov.

About the New Haven Museum The New Haven Museum has been collecting, preserving and interpreting the history and heritage of Greater New Haven since its inception as the New Haven Colony Historical Society in 1862. Located in downtown New Haven at 114 Whitney Avenue, the Museum brings more than 375 years of New Haven history to life through its collections, exhibitions, programs and outreach.

For more information visit http:// newhavenmuseum.org or Facebook. com/NewHavenMuseum or call 203562-4183.

Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this press release do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Pro-Biz Morris Cover Lands A Tweed View

by PAUL BASS

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

John Cirello has been around the runway and back on one of New Haven’s longer-running conflicts: Whether Tweed-New Haven should become a bigger, busier commercial airport.

As a volunteer with the Chamber of Commerce, Cirello has advocated for expanding the airport to include more commercial flights.

He also likes the convenience of catching a flight in Morris Cove, where he lives and where the airport is located. The quest to bring in a lot more commercial service than the two current daily flights to Philly has become a religious mission for the local business community.

As a good-government Republican who has occasionally run for public office, Cirello has discovered that no one can expect to win many votes in Morris Cove without adopting neighbors’ own fight-to-death quest to prevent expanding Tweed’s runway and enabling more noisy jets to fly into the neighborhood.

Cirello a private attorney and model New Haven citizen who volunteers on civic boards and commissions, helps to organize kids’ Halloween parades and soapbox derbies in Morris Cove, oversees election-day vote-counting, takes on public-defender cases discussed how the two opposed camps have influenced his own evolving position on the airport, during an appearance on WNHH radio’s “Dateline New Haven” program. The discussion touched on the definition of leadership: what it means to seek to “represent” a community, how to balance the need to address issues honestly with the need to listen and respond to the public will.

Excerpts from the conversation follow: WNHH: In 2007, you represented [the Chamber of Commerce] at a city hearing, a budget hearing, asking for more support for Tweed-New Haven Airport. You live in Morris Cove where TweedNew Haven Airport is about as popular as Donald Trump is in Brooklyn. People hate that airport.

And the business community has

Tweed (above); John Cirello at WNHH (below). PAUL BASS PHOTO

THOMAS MACMILLAN PHOTO Cirello

this religious belief that we can have huge jets coming here all day, we’d have a great economy, everybody would fly, these planes would be commercially viable — if just those neighbors in Morris Cove would stop fighting this airport that they knew was there when they bought their homes, so what the hell are they fighting about? Then we end up fighting about 20 feet of runway after five years.

What’s it like to come home to Morris Cove when you’ve advocated for Tweed to expand? Did they pelt your house with eggs?

Cirello: I had a lot of pushback when I ran the last time [for state representative in 2014].

But you kind of weaseled that one, didn’t you?

I did.

You said, “I’m not really going to say what my position is.” I love that you admit it!

This is the beauty of being a Republican in New Haven. Who’s going to give me a call and say, “You shouldn’t have said that on the radio!”?

Why did you weasel on it? Why didn’t you come out and say,

“Yeah, I’m a Republican. Yeah, I’m a conservative. Yeah, I live in Morris Cove. But I think we need that airport expanded”?

So one of the things we were talking about before with Donald Trump there are things you say to get elected. And how does that relate to governing?

But you weren’t going to get elected. You were running against someone who hadn’t shown up for years and was still going to get elected, because he’s a Democrat.

So why couldn’t you at least tell the truth?

Well, this is the way I framed it.

I said, “I am not running because I can promote my views. I am running so I can promote my community’s views.”

But shouldn’t a candidate tell us where a candidate stands? Even if that’s unpopular?

Absolutely. And initially I came out in favor of the airport. And then I had a very good friend, a professor at Southern Connecticut State University, who teaches politics there…. His name is Kevin Butterbaugh. He came up to me.

Our kids go to school together. A great friend of mine.

election.

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moderating a vote recount in a 2012 ward committee

And I asked him for his support.

And he gave me this look. And I’m like, “You’re kidding me!” And he’s like, “Nope. We don’t know where you stand on the airport.”

I was like, “But my daughter and your daughter are best friends. You know me. And you hate the person that’s there.” I said, “You’re looking for a Superman candidate. Don’t compare me to the Almighty. Compare me to the alternative. I’m so much better than the guy I’m running against.”

And he said, “No. Considering your stance on the airport, we can’t support you.” He was one of about two dozen people …

So I said, “Well, personally in the past I’ve been in favor expanding the airport. But as your state representative, I can assure you that I’ll represent your views.”

By the way. I’m an agnostic on the airport.

I think the Chamber of Commerce in this community has never shown real data that [more air service is commercially viable]. They always release fake studies. But every time we get an airline in there, they don’t succeed. So I don’t know that the

market will support it. I’d love to have a Tweed-New Haven Airport, for selfish reasons, have a lot of commercial flights, because I’d love not to have to go to Bradley, or LaGuardia. But I don’t think this business community has ever made its case that its corporate welfare is justified by the data that it’s commercially viable.

But I also think the neighborhood is full of it, because they bought their houses knowing there are airplanes there. And there is a larger public interest. So I’ve always been agnostic on this one.

I don’t think my personal views are so strong on the airport.

I would argue that that reason [Donald] Trump and [Bernie Sanders] did so well in the last election is that people would rather that politicians say what they really believe and mean it, rather than say, “If I can’t get elected according to the conventional wisdom with this position, I won’t take it.” Although you can make the argument here, John, that because you didn’t feel strongly — like me, you seem to think there are shadings on both sides of this issue — it’s OK to say on some issues, “Because I don’t feel strongly, I will listen to the will of the people and make sure [their] concerns are addressed and I won’t … go to the the mat and lose votes on [every issue].

Right.

But that can be a slippery slope.

Because then you justify being a weasel.

Are you calling me a weasel?

Not you. I’m saying, “One can …”

I think that that’s true. People want authenticity.

You don’t have to fake authenticity by pretending you know everything about every issue.

That’s true. A lot of people make decisions that are uninformed [in an] initial position. You get into something. We’ve learned that with Trump, when he said, “I didn’t realize health care was so complicated.”

But John, did you genuinely have a new take on the airport? Or was that just a convenient new position so you wouldn’t have to have zero support when you ran for state rep?

So I think a lot of your perspective Con’t on page 16

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Indiana Teen Graduating College Before High School!

by BlackDoctor.org Staff

Raven Osborne attends the 21st Century Charter High School in Gary, Indiana and will be graduating this month. The school is surrounded by dilapidated buildings, a common sight throughout the city. The high school graduation rate in Gary and Northwest Indiana ranges from 100% all the way down to 54%, so her graduating high school isn’t a big deal.

But when we heard that the beautiful, young talent was also graduating college this month, we knew we had to investigate further.

“I graduate from college on May 5,” she told CBS News.

So when does she graduate from high school? May 22.

Yep, that’s right. Raven gets her college degree two weeks before her high school diploma.

Osborne, who has been taking college classes part-time while still going to high school, is about to graduate from both high school and college in the same month.

But that’s not even the best part: After she graduates, she is guaranteed a job as teacher at the same high school she just graduated from!

“When people hear that … they’re going, ‘What? How did she do that?’” Duncan said.

“Yeah they think I’m lying,” Raven said.

The way she accomplished it all was through online classes, a yearround community college and two years at Purdue University Northwest. Her semester-long college courses counted as a full year of

high school credit. So while many of her peers were out snapchat-ing or instagram-ing it up, Osbourne was researching and studying for her next test.

“Sophomore, that was the most work. I had five high school classes, four college classes,” she said.

Everyone at 21st Century Charter is required to take college classes on a college campus in order to gradu-

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ate.

Some get just a few credits. Five of this year’s 43 graduates earned associate’s degrees. And then there’s Raven.

“When I was a younger, I was labelled with a learning disability,” she tells the Chicago Tribune. “But my mother always told me I could do whatever I wanted to do in life.”

“She is not only academically gift-

ed, but has demonstrated amazing intellectual maturity in her pursuit of a baccalaureate degree at Purdue Northwest,” her future alma mater said in a statement.

Kevin Teasley started the foundation that runs the school. He uses state funding for tuition and transportation to nearby college campuses.

So how much did Raven pay for college? “Absolutely nothing,” she said. “Not a dime.” That’s all thanks to… … the work Mr. Teasley has donand the work that Raven will soon do after graduation.

This fall, Raven will be back at 21st Century Charter, this time as a teacher.

Instead of paying for college, the school will be paying her salary, $38,000 a year to teach.

“We believe all students can achieve more and they will, if we support them…The college experience they receive while attending our high school gives them the confidence to … complete college, too. It’s a pretty cool accomplishment,” says Teasley

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Ohio Pastor Darrell Scott Convenes “Gang Summit” in Washington, D.C. Huffington Post.

Williams also said that there was no oversight over funds allocated to assist residents returning from prison.

“There needs to be an accountability system or an audit,” said Williams.

There was also an in-depth discussion about the role of church pastors in Chicago and whether or not they were helping to improve the situation. That topic would have been taboo at most roundtable discussions.

“I’ve heard this complaint,” said Scott. “That the money goes into the church and doesn’t go into the community…they see how the pastor is living and they wonder,” Scott added to nods of recognition around the room.

Sitting around a large rectangular set of connected tables as lunch was served, were Trump HUD official Richard Youngblood, James Holland of the NRA, Pastor Dean Nelson of the Frederick Douglass Foundation and Cleveland activist Kareem Lanier as well as about twenty others. Some who attended were from the business community, some were leaders of community groups and others were deep-pocketed investors who wanted to know how they could help Chicago.

“We believe [President Donald Trump] will be the one to help the Black community on housing renovation and neighborhood revitalization,” said Lanier during the session.

According to a 2017 report on crime rates by the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law, “While murder rates have increased in some cities, this report finds no evidence that the hard-won public safety gains of the last two and a half decades are being reversed.”

The report continued: “With violence at historic lows, modest increases in the murder rate may appear large in percentage terms.

Similarly, murder rates in the 30 largest cities increased by 13.2 percent in 2015 and an estimated 14 percent in 2016. These increases were highly concentrated.

More than half of the 2015 urban increase (51.8 percent) was caused by just three cities, Baltimore, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.

By Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire Contributor

After backpedaling from claims he made in February, that gang leaders committed to “lower the body count” in Chicago in exchange for “some social programs,” Pastor Darrell Scott recently hosted a meeting in Washington, D.C. to discuss a range of issues affecting the Black community.

The “gang summit,” as it was dubbed by reporters, was held at the St. Regis hotel, a few blocks from the White House. The discussion went on for over three hours.

Even though, Scott of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, convened the discussion, he spent most of the multi-hour conversation as a facilitator.

During his opening statement at the summit, Scott said that, “We know President Trump is unpopular in the Black community.”

Everyone in attendance appeared to understand the painfully obvious: that one meeting won’t solve Chicago’s complex issues around poverty, violence and the school to prison pipeline. The summit was just a first step that placed key players on these issues in the same room for the first time during Trump’s presidency.

Xavier Williams, a former gang member who spent 16 years in prison and who earned a degree in community redevelopment, spoke to the group of assembled business leaders, Trump Administration officials, clergy and community stakeholders.

Williams ran down statistics pointing out that there were five neighborhoods in Chicago that were ground zero for an endless cycle of unemployment, poverty and violence.

Williams noted that the unemployment rate in five of the most violent neighborhoods in Chicago was extremely high and those same neighborhoods also suffered the majority of school closures since 2013, a decision that was criticized by local and national education advocates.

“In 2013, the city’s mayor, Rahm Emanuel, closed 49 schools — a move that was met with widespread resistance and disproportionately impacted minority communities,” according to The

14

And Chicago alone was responsible for 43.7 percent of the rise in urban murders in 2016.”

Even though, “Today’s crime rate is less than half of what it was in 1991,” according to the Brennan Center, President Trump ratcheted up the “law and order” rhetoric during the first 100 days of his presidency.

In January 2017, Trump said, “Afghanistan is not like what’s happening in Chicago” during an interview with ABC. That same month, Trump tweeted a warning to Chicago’s political establishment: “If Chicago doesn’t fix the horrible ‘carnage’ going on…I will send in the Feds!”

In February, during a meeting with sheriffs, Trump claimed that the murder rate in the U.S. was the highest it’s been in 47 years.

“Did you know that? Forty-seven years,” said Trump, according to the Chicago Tribune. “I used to use that—I’d say that in a speech and everybody was surprised. Because the press doesn’t tell it like it is. It wasn’t to their advantage to say that.”

That statement from the new president, like so many others, was inaccurate.

“The most recent annual FBI statistics available show the national rate for murder and non-negligent manslaughter in 2015 was 4.9 per 100,000 people,” the Chicago Tribune reported. “That was lower than every year between 1996 and 2009, when the rate fell from 7.4 killings per 100,000 people to five for the same population.”

Whether Trump can pivot away from his “law and order” rhetoric and inaccurate statements about crime in urban communities and towards policies that involve economic development and neighborhood revitalization remains unclear.

Lauren Victoria Burke is a speaker, writer and political analyst. She appears on “NewsOne Now” with Roland Martin every Monday. Lauren is also a frequent contributor to the NNPA Newswire and BlackPressUSA.com.

Connect with Lauren by email at LBurke007@gmail.com and on Twitter at @LVBurke.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Death by tax cuts: The Republican health care plan

by Jesse Jackson Donald Trump hosted a celebration in the White House Rose Garden for House Republicans after they passed their party’s health care plan by the thinnest of margins.

They were celebrating what Trump called a “win,” without any thought about consequences.

None of them had read the bill, which was released only a couple of days before the vote and rushed to the floor. The vote took place before the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office could issue a revised assessment of its costs and effects.

House leaders and Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney dismissed criticisms, saying that Senate Republicans planned to start all over anyway. This bill addresses one-sixth of our national economy, and an industry that has been a leading source of jobs growth.

Don’t worry, say House Republicans, we just had to get the win; forget about the substance.

Americans shouldn’t just be worried; they should be furious. The Republican bill will throw literally millions off health care, put people with pre-existing conditions at risk and raise premiums particularly for workers aged 50 to 64 — in order to give a massive tax break to the very wealthy.

At the annual shareholders meeting of Berkshire Hathaway, billionaire investor Warren Buffett called it for what it is: “a huge tax cut for guys like me.” The richest 400 people in America will get a tax break estimated at about $7 million a year. To pay for that, millions will lose their coverage, and millions more — the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions in various states — will see premiums soar and insurance become unaffordable.

You can’t sugarcoat this. It’s not enough to say the Senate will fix it (the 13 white men — no women, no people of color — on the Republican Senate Working Group certainly will not). It’s not acceptable to say, “We don’t mean it; we just had to pass it.”

Why did they have to pass it? This is complicated, but if you follow it, you can understand the backroom plunder that is taking place. As Peter Suderman explained in the New York Times, Republicans have to pass it because the top-end tax cuts in the health care bill are vital for their central goal: to deliver to their corporate and wealthy donors another massive tax cut in the next budget reconciliation vote. They have to do the tax

cuts in what’s called “reconciliation” because that allows them, under the obscure rules of the Congress, to pass the bill with only 50 votes — with only Republican votes.

But the reconciliation rules only allow tax cuts if they don’t raise deficits after a 10-year window. So to get what Trump calls the mother of all tax cuts, Republicans want to cut the taxes out of Obamacare in the FY2017 reconciliation (that only lasts until next September) and then have a lower baseline for cutting taxes in the FY2018 reconciliation (the budget that begins on October 1).

Tax cuts for the wealthy will be paid for by sickness and death by millions of the uninsured.

Republican Sen. John McCain criticizes the House for proceeding without a CBO estimate of the costs, saying, “I want to know how much it costs.” Republican senators vow not to act until the CBO reports.

The CBO’s estimate will show what we already know from its last estimate: Millions will lose their insurance, and the wealthy will pocket millions in tax cuts.

A former insurance executive, Richard Eskow, did the real math.

He took the best estimates of how many avoidable deaths come from not having health insurance with the rollback of Medicaid and taking away protections for pre-existing conditions. He compared that to the tax cuts that would be pocketed by the 400 richest Americans, people who, like Buffett, make on average

over $300 million a year.

Here’s his estimate of the real cost: Ten people will die under the Republican bill to give each of the 400 richest people in America a tax break. For every person who dies, they’ll pocket about $787,151. As Eskow noted, those rich beneficiaries aren’t likely to know anyone who will lose his or her life as a result of being stripped of health insurance.

And while the $787,000 isn’t much for a multimillionaire, it’s just the appetizer for the big take they will get out of the Trump tax cut plan that will follow.

Thirteen white, rich men will now create the Republican plan in the Senate. They’ll decide how many millions to strip from health insurance to pay for tax cuts many of them will enjoy. They’ll decide whether to deprive low-wage women of Planned Parenthood’s health care services. They’ll decide just how many deaths are needed to cover the tax cuts for the very rich.

Ugly language? No this is a morally indefensible, ugly piece of work.

It is simply obscene to choose consciously to condemn low-wage workers or older workers to unnecessary illness and death in order to afford tax cuts for the already wealthy.

Sophia Donnelly joins others to protest the U.S. House passage of a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, at the south gate of the Capitol in Austin, Texas. (Jay Janner/ Austin American-Statesman via AP)

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Eugene Mitchell and New York Life Are Creating $50 Billion in Black Wealth

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Contributor If Black lives matter, then Black wealth should certainly matter, too.

That’s the motto that Eugene Mitchell, a corporate vice president and market manager in the African-American Market Unit for the New York Life Insurance Company, often shares.

Since 2011, Mitchell has been on a mission to create wealth—$50 billion to be exact—in the Black community through an innovative and well-thought out insurance program backed by his employers and the 1,200 African-American insurance agents the company employs.

“We are on mission to create $50 billion of tax-free future income in the Black community,” Mitchell said. “I believe the issues in the Black community are not crime [or] drugs; those are symptoms of a greater and deeper rooted issue, which is about economics.

Mitchell continued: “Without economics, without college saving plans in place, without down payments for new homes, folks struggle to move to the next level. What we’ve put together is a community empowerment plan that’s about financial literacy.”

Mitchell said that leveraging financial tools to really make a difference is what’s important.

The equation is quite simple: multiply 200,000 families by $250,000 in life insurance and that creates $50 billion of tax-free income.

Instead of thinking of life insurance as just a means to cover funeral expenses, Mitchell urges Black families to consider life insurance as protection and an investment for future generations.

Mitchell based his plan on four principles: Protect what you own and those you love; prioritize financial goals; plan for major life events; and pass on assets to individuals and institutions you care about.

“We’re not only trying to create wealth, but to spend it in the right place; to build upon it and protect it and leverage it for the future and pass it on, so that money is never an issue,” said Mitchell. “Knowing collectively that we’ve created $50 billion and changed the financial

New York Life agents, plan to celebrate reaching the $50 billion milestone by taking a portrait on the steps of the U.S. Capitol in August.

“The $50 billion is just a starting point,” said Mitchell. “It could be used on top of the trillion dollars of earned income that Black people already have.”

Con’t from page 10

Pro-Biz Morris Cover Lands A Tweed View

future of our community shows that Black wealth matters.”

Each generation of AfricanAmericans stands proudly on the legacy of everyday heroes and civil rights leaders, just as Mitchell said he happily stands on the legacy of Cirilo A. McSween, an AfricanAmerican trailblazer in the insurance business who dedicated his life to strengthening the Black community.

McSween, who served as the treasurer of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was a close confidant of Martin Luther King, Jr., was adamant about helping his clients create estates and leave legacies to financially empower the next generation, using life insurance as the foundation, Mitchell said.

I tell my agents that we have the responsibility to live up to the legacy of those who came before us by doing all that we can to help those who will come after us,” said Mitchell, who holds a degree in finance from Florida International University and an MBA in finance from New York University.

Helping to create economic opportunity and building multigenerational wealth can ensure the stability and the future of the Black community, he said.

A revelation struck Mitchell when his employers explained that his value to the company was $2.5

million. Mitchell said that was the current value of his future earnings at the company, just his salary alone, without bonuses.

“So, it made me think about valuing my life. If someone got on the bus and was acting up, it taught me to move to the other side, for example,” he said. “You tend to take better care of yourself, your children and your family and make better decisions, when you know you’re worth a million dollars or more.”

Other races, particularly Whites, inherit their wealth, most through life insurance payouts, he said.

“You really can’t work your way to wealth, you have to invest your earnings somewhere,” said Mitchell. “It’s time to consider tools like life insurance, as well as, looking at places where we can find money to invest.”

Mitchell continued: “We could empower ourselves, and send more kids to school, create endowments, lessen crime and create more home ownership, collectively.”

Buying life insurance isn’t a government handout, or someone else doing for the community, Mitchell said.

“It’s us, getting ourselves together with what we have,” explained Mitchell. “To teach our children better, to act better ourselves, and to use these tools that are readily available that have been underlev-

16

eraged in our community, so that we can raise expectations and create a new legacy for generations to come.”

Quite simply, life insurance isn’t a lottery ticket, Mitchell stressed.

“We can insure our parents, ourselves and our children to build this within our own families. By getting our mindset and spending habits right, we can start setting up college savings plans and down payments for homes like others,” he said.

Mitchell explained: “If you had inherited $250,000 from big momma, would it have helped you put aside your nest egg, put a down payment on a home or have startup capital for a business?”

Already, after just six years, the plan is nearing its goal.

In 2016 alone, New York Life paid out $5 billion in death claims, Mitchell said.

African-American agents at the company handled more than $100 million in claims from Black Americans.

“The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) forthrightly salutes New York Life and Eugene Mitchell for this transformative initiative to undergird the building of wealth for Black families and communities,” said Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA. Mitchell and others, including

has to do with people you’re exposed to. And being around other business leaders and the Chamber of Commerce and people from economic development, they were ...

It’s a jihad in economic development and business circles in this city. … all I heard were the benefits of the airport. And I found it very convenient. I used to walk to the airport with my carry-on. Those were the people I was exposed to.

That was the side of the issue I was exposed to.

I go run for office, and I’m now exposed to this whole group of people who said, “No, no, no.

Not so fast. They promised they wouldn’t expand the airport, and this is why.” I realized that people I am going to be representing are these people. Let’s give their arguments some value.

How do you feel today about Tweed-New Haven Airport? Expand it, or not?

I don’t think it needs to be expanded. They want to pave over the runaway crash zones. I don’t perceive that as a problem.

The neighbors say that’s a broken promise from our city.

So a politician broke a promise…

John, you’re not running for office now.

No. So this is your honest position.

You didn’t sell out. That campaign actually changed your mind by hearing from a different group of people.

Yeah, and I think we need more of that. Expose yourself to other side’s view. Listen to it with an open heart and an open mind. And see if you change your mind.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Famine Is Threatening Four African Nations. What Will Trump Do?

By Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.)

As you read this, our world stands at a crossroads. As you read this, 20 million people stand at risk of starvation at the hands of what has the potential to become the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II; famine in South Sudan and impending famine in Northeast Nigeria, Somalia, and Yemen. Our country has a moral responsibility to address this issue head on.

For famine to be declared, two children younger than five years old in every 10,000 people have to die due to malnutrition and one in five families have to have insufficient food to sustain themselves. Waiting for famine to be declared to act means you’re already too late.

Famine has already been declared in South Sudan, where hunger is expected to spread to 40 percent of the country’s population in the absence of humanitarian aid. The country’s man-made famine is a result of violent conflict in vast swaths of the country. Despite promises of access for relief efforts to these areas by the South Sudanese government, humanitarian organizations remain unable to gain access to provide urgent vital assistance in the form of food, water and shelter in many locations.

Somalia, Nigeria, and Yemen are all on the brink of having famine declared. More than half of Somalia’s total population of 12.3 million are experiencing acute food insecurity and are on the brink of death from starvation as a result of drought.

Due to conflict with Al-Shabaab terrorists, humanitarian access remains an obstacle in providing the country’s 6.2 million people experiencing acute food insecurity with the aid that they desperately need.

In Northeast Nigeria, terrorism by Boko Haram has resulted in widespread displacement and a growing humanitarian crisis. Over 50,000 people in the region are at risk of famine. In addition, counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram by the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Adamawa, Yobe and Borno states have led to population displacement, limited access for relief efforts and have prevented farmers from accessing

their fields, leading to significantly below-average harvests.

In Yemen, agriculture production has drastically declined due to conflict, insecurity, high costs, and sporadic availability of agricultural inputs. Two years of escalating conflict have left 18.8 million Yemenis in need of some kind of humanitarian or protection support. Seven million women, children, and men could risk famine in 2017.

In each country, whether it’s existing famine in South Sudan or the brink of famine in Somalia, Nigeria, or Yemen, the particularly disastrous characteristic is that these situations are either caused or exacerbated by man-made crisis.

You wouldn’t know that this was occurring though – other than a largely lackluster statement about South Sudan on “Face the Nation” in early April by Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, the Administration has been quiet about the impending disaster in Africa and Yemen. When asked about the implications of the Administration’s budget proposal, Ambassador Haley called for “smarter spending” when it comes to foreign and humanitarian aid.

Smarter spending is, of course, necessary, but, in the face of the president proposing cuts of nearly 30 percent to foreign aid and diplomacy efforts, it’s hard to imagine that the appropriate amount of aid and assistance will be provided to the four countries. At a fundamental level, President Trump’s America-first budget would forego international diplomatic leadership and ignore the impending crisis. Foreign aid is an investment, and it makes our country and those overseas fighting for us, dramatically safer. With leadership comes responsibility. Providing aid is a moral imperative.

Despite the lack of coverage in TV media on the issue, we are at a crossroads. Congress has the decision before them to either continue America’s legacy in ending famine now, or forgo our diplomatic leadership in the area entirely.

Congresswoman Karen Bass represents California’s 37th Congressional District; she is the 2nd Vice President of the Congressional Black Caucus and she co-chairs the CBC’s Africa Taskforce. Follow her on Twitter at @KarenBass.

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The 46-year-old MC Lyte (born Lana Michele Moorer) began her rap career in the late 1980’s and is considered one of the first ladies of hip hop, best known for her hits “Lyte As A Rock” and “Cha, Cha, Cha,” “Roughneck” and “Cold Rock A Party.” She’s also an entrepreneur, voiceover actor, public speaker and philanthropist, and she was also the first AfricanAmerican woman to serve as the president of the Los Angeles chapter of the Recording Academy.

Over the years, MC Lyte has been very private about her personal life, but recently, the veteran hip-

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hop star has shown her emotional side and expressed a heartfelt message about her own relationship to her fans who may have given up on finding true love.

In an exclusive interview with Essence, MC Lyte shares that she is now engaged! That’s right, she’s not only “Lyte as a rock,” she also HAS a rock now! Come through Lyte!

In the interview, the veteran MC is visibly glowing and shares that she actually met her fiance’ online (yep, that’s right ladies!). She goes on to say that there are so many things that she loves about him, including his laugh and his smile.

Lyte first started gushing about her

new beau earlier this year with an instagram post announcing the handsome stranger.

“What can I say, except thank you Lord!” the rapper shared on social media in early 2017. “It’s been a long time, this single [life, and I thank you all for your prayers and kind words of hope. God has sent me true love.”

In years past, rumors have linked Lyte to being a lesbian in relationships with Tichina Arnold from Martin, Queen Latifah, rapper Lil’ Mama and even singer/actress Janelle Monae. But she put those rumors to rest with her instagram post showcasing her true love.

Concluding her message, she uses her own journey as a way to inspire others, adding, “For all of you waiting on LOVE – don’t give up. Keep God first and he will see that you meet your match.”

In her picture post, the veteran rapper decided to introduce her new boyfriend to the world, expressing her gratitude that after years of being single, she’s now found her beau.

Fresh off the Women’s march with 750,000 other women the day after Trump’s inauguration, Lyte says to always “expect miracles.”

With all the love talk aside, MC Lyte is still an inspiration for women everywhere. From her voiceover deals, to her businesses in New York, to her wealth building seminars — Lyte is working…a lot!

We will continue to follow her love story and hope it goes on forever!

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Rolling Out the Red Carpet For African American Women, and Building Something Massive Together (For Us and By Us!)

Nationwide — The Black Girl Powerhouse campaign is the brainchild of national best-selling author and successful entrepreneur, Brenda Hampton. The resort-style commercial property is designed as a meeting place for black women seeking support for their businesses, for networking opportunities, to attend empowering and motivational seminars, and for entertainment and relaxation.

The Powerhouse is a breathtaking, gated estate which will be located on the outskirts of St. Charles, Missouri. The 12,000 sq. ft. upscale structure will be available to members who join the BG Powerhouse club. Based on the design for the Powerhouse, the interior will include portraits of African American women achievers who are considered trailblazing legends.

Some of these individuals include: Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Hattie McDaniel, Henrietta Lacks, Angela Davis, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Serena Williams, Whitney Houston, Catherine L. Hughes and many more.

There will be a gift shop and a bookstore that includes the literary works of mostly African American women writers. A chef’s kitchen will be included,

along with a wine/bar area and a great room where our members can meet and greet. The estate will boast four spacious meeting rooms for weekly scheduled events.

Events may revolve around politics, educational seminars, health and wealth, beauty tips . . . and motivational speaking that will inspire and benefit Powerhouse members in every way possible. Also included in this immaculate estate will be a movie theater, concession area, spa, art gallery and a Powerhouse Women Wall of Fame. Outdoors will include numerous lounging areas, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an area for concerts, rental tents for weddings and parties, sports courts and a miniature golf course.

The focus and goal is to provide a support system for women, to build morale, to educate members and encourage them to stand in solidarity on issues that are important to them. By including fun activities, Hampton hopes to make BG Powerhouse members have an unrivaled experience they will want to partake in multiple times throughout the year.

Weekend events will center around: * Politics, where politicians

will be invited to visit for discussions about our government and suggest things we can do to improve our communities. * Successful entrepreneurs who can share information relating to starting a business. * Fitness coaches who can steer members in the right direction with diet and health. * Financial planners who can share tips on wealth building and economic empowerment. * Mental health counselors who can address issues relating to depression. * Realtors who can share how to own a home or benefit from flipping houses. * Fashion experts and makeup specialists who can share beauty tips and show members how to dress to impress. * Historians who can share vital information about the African American culture.

From cooking tips and techniques… to learning how to write a book, the Powerhouse will have it all. Learn more about the campaign and Hampton’s vision at www.blackgirlpowerhouse.com.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Mary Mahoney: Activist & America’s First Black Registered Nurse

by Aria Ellise, BDO Special Contributor America’s first black professional nurse, Mary Mahoney is known not only for her outstanding personal career, but also for her exemplary contributions to local and national professional organizations. Mahoney inspired both nurses and patients with her calm, quiet efficiency and untiring compassion.

Mary Eliza Mahoney was born on May 7, 1845 (some sources say April 16, 1845), in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts.

At the age of 20, Mary Mahoney began working as a nurse. Supplementing her low income as an untrained practical nurse, Mahoney took on janitorial duties at the New England Hospital for Women and Children. Incorporated on March 18, 1863, New England Hospital provided its patients state-of-theart medical care by solely female physicians. It also assisted women in the practical study of medicine.

After working for several years as a private-duty nurse at Boston’s New England Hospital for Women and Children, in 1878,

Mahoney was admitted to the hospital’s nursing program. During her training, a slim, 90-pound Mahoney participated in mandatory 16-hour-per-day ward duty, where she oversaw the well-being of six patients at a time. Days not requiring ward duty involved attending day-long lectures while simultaneously devoting time to her studies.

The rigorous workload proved too tough for all but three of the 42 students. Mahoney being one of them who successfully made it through the 16 month program.

Subsequently, she became the first black woman to complete nurse’s training in the U.S. and one of the first black members of the all-white Nurses Associated Alumnae of the United States and Canada (later renamed the American Nurses Association). She was also a founding member of the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN) for which she gave the welcome address in 1909.

Patients tended by Mahoney throughout her career gave glowing testimony of her expert and tender care.

In addition to her pioneering efforts in nursing, Mahoney has

been credited as one of the first women to register to vote in Boston following the ratification of the

19th Amendment, granting women’s suffrage, on August 26, 1920.

In the early 1900s, Mahoney re-

located to Long Island, New York, to serve a stint as supervisor of… … the Howard Orphan Asylum for Black Children, returning to Massachusetts thereafter.

After over 40 years of nursing service, Mahoney retired and turned her focus to women’s equality. The progression was natural given her fight for minority rights during her professional career. In 1920, she was among the first women to register to vote in Boston, Massachusetts.

Mary Mahoney died on January 4, 1926 at the age of 80, after a three-year battle with breast cancer. She was laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett, Massachusetts.

After her death, Mahoney was inducted into the Nursing Hall of Fame in 1976 and received induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.

Mary Mahoney was not just an inspiration to African American women, but to the entire nursing profession. Her drive and passion for nursing helped shape the standards at which the profession has come to expect and continues to develop.

Meet Jelani Aliyu -- The Genius Who Designed GM's Flagship Electric Vehicle, the Chevy Volt As a child, Jelani Aliyu always loved cars and it was his dream to design cars when he grew up. Now, he is known around the world as the genius who designed the Chevrolet Volt, which is considered to be the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market today.

Getting started Born and raised in Soko state, Nigeria, Jelani won a 4-year scholarship and moved to Detroit, Michigan in 1990 to study auto design at the College for Creative Studies. During this time, he won two design awards from both Ford Motor Company and Michelin.

In 1994, he began his career with the design staff of General Motors, the world’s largest automobile maker, and initially worked on the Buick Rendezvous and the Pontiac G6. In 1997, he participated in a 10-month auto engineering competition that he won, and it was here that he developed a hybrid, eco-friendly vehicle that uses a gas engine to produce ad-

Volt cumulatively the best-selling plug-in electrified vehicle in both countries - outselling other electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Model S.

ditional electricity.

That vehicle was the Chevrolet Volt, voted by the U.S. EPA in 2014 as the most fuel-efficient vehicle on

the market, using electrical power from a battery plus gasoline of just 3.8L/100 km.

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Breaking records Since 2010, more than 150,000 units have been sold in the United States and Canada making the Chevrolet

It almost didn’t happen What is interesting about Jelani’s story is that he had originally planned to study architecture, but a scholarship from the Sokoto state government changed his plans.

Many people, including General Motors, are glad he did! To them, he is a super star!

In fact, his knowledge, skills and hard work have been well-recognized by the auto industry.

And thanks to him, the Chevy Volt has won several prestigious auto awards, including the 2009 Green Car Vision Award, 2011 Green Car of the Year, 2011 North American Car of the Year, 2011 World Green Car, 2012 European Car of the Year, and 2016 Green Car of the Year.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

New Orleans Begins Removing Racist Confederate Monuments

By Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire Contributor Against a backdrop of death threats and under the cover of night, officials in New Orleans have begun to dismantle Confederate monuments honoring racists of the Civil War and Jim Crow eras of United States history.

Workers removing the first of four monuments wore bulletproof vests, helmets and hid their faces. By 5:45 a.m. on April 24, the monument was gone. Three more monuments are set to disappear, but the city is not announcing publicly which statues will be next and what date the removals will take place.

“The removal of these statues sends a clear and unequivocal message to the people of New Orleans and the nation: New Orleans celebrates our diversity, inclusion and tolerance,” said New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu in a statement on April 24.

At a press conference the morning after the first monument, the Battle of Liberty Place Memorial, was removed, the Mayor stated that the other monuments would be removed, “sooner rather than later.”

“Relocating these Confederate monuments is not about taking something away from someone

“It is more nuanced than that. One can support keeping the statues for accuracy…as a historical reminder of a shameful part of our history,” wrote one commenter on Twitter.

Much social media discussion dealt with the issue of whether negative parts of American history should be commemorated.

“When are we gonna put up some Hitler statues, ya know, to remind us of those dark times in History?” another Twitter user stated.

Others debated the role of poor White southerners who participated in the Civil War.

else. This is not about politics, blame or retaliation. This is not a naïve quest to solve all our problems at once,” the Mayor said.

“This is about showing the whole world that we as a city and as a people are able to acknowledge, understand, reconcile—and most importantly—choose a better future. We can remember these divisive chapters in our history in a museum or other facility where they can be put in context—and that’s where these statues belong.

The Liberty Place Monument celebrated an 1874 insurrection of

a group of all-White, mostly Confederate veterans calling themselves the Crescent City White League. The group fought against the racially integrated New Orleans Metropolitan Police. The monument honored members of the Crescent City White League who died during the battle.

In 1932, a plaque was added to put an even finer point on the racist motivations behind the monument. The plaque in part read that the battle was fought to “overthrow of carpetbag government, ousting the usurpers” and that “the na-

tional election of November 1876 recognized white supremacy in the South and gave us our state.”

According to The New York Times, “In 1993, the City Council voted to remove the obelisk, but instead the plaque was covered with a new one that read: ‘In honor of those Americans on both sides who died in the Battle of Liberty Place’ and called it ‘a conflict of the past that should teach us lessons for the future.’”

The reactions on social media to the monument’s removal were quite animated.

“It was the North who refused to recognize blacks as people, resulting in the appalling 3/5 compromise. The South obv wanted,” wrote Erin Greer of Atlanta on Twitter.

A Twitter user, who identified himself as Clayton Barnes, responded: “And the South just wanted to own them, treat them terribly, and work them like mules.”

Lauren Victoria Burke is a political analyst who speaks on politics and African American leadership.

She is also a frequent contributor to the NNPA Newswire and BlackPressUSA.com. Connect with Lauren by email at LBurke007@gmail. com and on Twitter at @LVBurke.

This 72 -Year-Old Grandmother Just Graduated From TSU 55 Years After She Started

by Ashley White, BlackDoctor.org Darlene Mullins always taught her children to finish what they started, which is why the 72-year-old grandmother of 4 just graduated from Tennessee State University after cutting her college career short 55 years ago.

Darlene attended TSU in 1962 and was a rising track star gearing up to participate in the 1964 Olympics.

“Wilma Rudolph was my idol and I was well on my way,” she said in an interview with TSU Newsroom.

However, while in school she met and fell in love with John Mullins.

Darlene first noticed John “in the stands” during practices and training. The two met and their relationship blossomed. So much that her track coach gave Darlene an ultimatum: either his track team or John

Mullins.

Darlene chose John. ` John got a job in Dallas and Dar-

lene went with him to start their new life together after getting married.

With the thought of finishing school in the back of her mind, Darlene

21

started her own career as a businesswoman and later became an owner of a salon and spa. She also had two children with John.

“Something kept nagging at me,” she said. “I always told my my children to make sure they finish what they started and I kind of felt it was time to live up to my own advice.”

With her children being adults and the passing of a sick aunt, Darlene said to John: “Take me back to where we met.”

“She gave up everything for me,” John said, “so now it was my time to follow her.”

Darlene and her husband moved back to Nashville in July 2013 so she could pursue her degree in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in African studies and communications.

Darlene adjusted to campus life, which included learning to register

for her classes online and getting used to much younger classmates.

Her classmates affectionately called her Ms. D, Mama, Nana and Gramma.

At times, she took up to 20 credit hours per semester. Mullins completed her degree in four years and will graduate summa cum laude.

She’s also a member of three honor societies including Phi Kappa Phi for “those with GPAs higher than 3.75.

“My graduation from college, for me, confirms that i completed what I started more than 50 years ago,” said Mullins. “I am happy.”

This past Saturday, Darlene participated in the school’s undergraduate commencement ceremony Saturday, and we’re extremely proud of her.

Congratulations!

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Invitation for Bid (IFB) Trumbull Gardens 18 Vacant Unit Renovation Solicitation Number: 076-PD-17-S

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) is requesting sealed bids for the 18 Vacant Unit Renovation at Trumbull Gardens. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on May 22, 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 MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604 on June 6, 2017 @ 10:00 a.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 June 13, 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 June 20, 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.

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Request for Proposal (RFP) General Counsel Solicitation Number: 083-EO-17-S

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport (HACB) d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) seeks proposals from attorneys/law firms for the provision of a full cadre of legal services. Respondent(s) must have graduated from an accredited law school and be a member of the Connecticut Bar. A complete set of RFP documents will be available on May 22, 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-Proposal Conference will be held at PCC’s Administrative Offices at 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604 on June 1, 2017 at 10 a.m.

All interested parties are strongly encouraged to attend the conference. Although not mandatory, all applicants are encouraged to attend to better understand the PCC’s requirements under this RFP. Additional questions should be emailed only to bids@ parkcitycommunities.org no later than June 9, 2017 @ 3:00 p.m. Answers to all the questions will be posted on PCC’s Website: www.parkcitycommunities.org. Proposals shall be mailed or hand delivered by June 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. to Ms. Caroline Sanchez, Contract Specialist, 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604. Late proposals will not be accepted.

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Request for Proposals (RFP) Group Health Insurance Benefit Solicitation Number: 084-HR-17-S

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport (HACB) d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) seeks proposals from qualified Health Insurance Agencies. A complete set of RFP documents will be available on May 22, 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-Proposal Conference will be held at PCC’s Administrative Offices at 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604 on June 7, 2017 at 10 a.m. All interested parties are strongly encouraged to attend the conference. Although not mandatory, all applicants are encouraged to attend to better understand the PCC’s requirements under this RFP. Additional questions should be emailed only to bids@parkcitycommunities.org no later than June 9, 2017 @ 3:00 p.m. Answers to all the questions will be posted on PCC’s Website: www. parkcitycommunities.org. Proposals shall be mailed or hand delivered by June 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. to Ms. Caroline Sanchez, Contract Specialist, 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604. Late proposals will not be accepted.

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT is requesting qualifications from experienced firms for Internet, Internet Voice Bundle and Hosted Voice service. RFQ 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 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 June 30th , 2017. Credit, Police and Landlord checks are procured by the authority. Smoke Free Housing.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HOUSING

VNA Community Healthcare is searching for Certified Home Health Aides (HHA). Must have 6 months – one year of experience as a HHA. Several opportunities for full and parttime flexible schedules. Submit resume and cover letter to jobs@vna-commh.org. Visit our website www.connecticuthomecare.org for other opportunities. EOE/M/F

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES Invitation for Bids

McConaughy Terrace Furnace and Hot Water Heaters Replacement The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking Bids for McConaughy Terrace Furnace and Hot Water Heaters Replacement. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/ gateway beginning on Monday, May 8, 2017 at 3:00PM.

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

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.

22

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 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.

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Invitation for Bid (IFB) PT Barnum Apartments Unit 205 Renovation Solicitation Number: 080-PD-17-S

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) is requesting sealed bids for Renovation of unit 205 at PT Barnum Apartments. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on May 8, 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 May 23, 2017 @ 10:00 a.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 May 30, 2017 @ 3:00 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 June 6, 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.

TRANSFER STATION LABORER Off load trailers, reload for trans/disp. Lift 50 lbs., operate industrial powered trucks and forklift. Asbestos Worker Handler Training a +. Resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 173 Pickering St., Portland, CT 06480; Fax 860-342-1022; or Email to lkelly@redtransfer.com 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 City of Norwalk Housing Authority

is seeking qualifications from photographers, videographers, journalists and graphic production professionals to create documentary materials related to a major urban redevelopment project.

The Washington Village / South Norwalk Choice Neighborhoods Initiative (CNI) is a $150 million-dollar housing and neighborhood revitalization strategy being implemented with federal, state, municipal and private investments. The transformative nature of this collaboration provides a unique and extraordinary opportunity to tell a story and share the lessons learned over a 4 to 5-year period. It is also an opportunity to engage local residents including children in documenting this transformation. This Request for Qualifications is directed to firms, collaborations, partnerships or individuals with the pre-requisite skills to produce professional quality video productions, photo journals, graphic illustrations and journalistic copy to document this historical transformation. A complete copy of the Request for Qualifications can be viewed and printed at www.norwalkha.org under the Business tab, RFPs/RFQs or the project website: www. norwalkcni.org Norwalk Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Curtis O. Law, Executive Director

2BR Bristol, CT $950-$990 Zbikowski Park Neighborhood now taking applications for newly rehabbed 2BR apartment.

Available immediately. Income restrictions apply. Equal Housing Opportunity. Contact Beatrice Nieves at (860) 585-2042 or at bnieves@bristolhousing.org

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Invitation for Bid (IFB) Kossuth Street Duplex Renovation Solicitation Number: 081-PD-17-S

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) is requesting sealed bids for Renovation of Unit 205 at PT Barnum Apartments. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on May 8, 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 May 23, 2017 @ 11:00 a.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 May 30, 2017 @ 3:00 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 June 6, 2017 @ 3:00 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.

VNA Community Healthcare is searching for Certified Home Health Aides (HHA). Must have 6 months – one year of experience as a HHA. Several opportunities for full and part-time flexible schedules. Submit resume and cover letter to jobs@ vna-commh.org. Visit our website www.connecticuthomecare.org for other opportunities. EOE/M/F

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

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.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

***HELP WANTED***

DEEP RIVER HOUSING AUTHORITY OPENING WAITING LIST FOR SENIOR/DISABLED

Total Fence LLC currently has an opening for a fence/guardrail installer. We offer competitive wages, medical, and a Simple IRA plan. Must have 5 years minimum fence/guardrail installation experience and a valid CT Driver’s License.

Applicant must be fluent in English.

Please apply in person to:

TOTAL FENCE LLC 525 ELLA GRASSO BOULEVARD NEW HAVEN, CT 06519

The Deep River Housing Authority will open it’s waiting list for Senior/Disabled Housing on June 1st, 2017.

This list will remain open until July 31st, 2017. To request an application, please call 860-526-5119. Applications will be accepted by mail (must be postmarked by 7/31/17) Housing is available to anyone over 62 or handicapped/disabled that meet the income guidelines. Monthly rates are based on income with a minimum base rent requirement of $697.

***No phone calls*** Total Fence LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Deep River Housing 60 Main Street Deep River, CT 06417

***HELP WANTED***

J & S General Contractors LLC currently has an opening for a fence/ guardrail installer. We offer competitive wages, medical, and a Simple IRA plan. Must have 5 years minimum fence/guardrail installation experience and a valid CT Driver’s License. Applicant must be fluent in English.

Please apply in person to: J & S GENERAL CONTRACTORS LLC 525 ELLA GRASSO BOULEVARD NEW HAVEN, CT 06519

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 June 30th , 2017.

Credit, Police and Landlord checks are procured by the authority. Smoke Free Housing.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HOUSING

***No phone calls*** J & S General Contractors LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

LEGAL NOTICE The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven (ECC/HANH) is proposing to amend its Low Income Public Housing Admission and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Administrative Plan.

The proposed revisions to the ACOP and the Administrative Plan are available as of June 6, 2017 online at www.elmcitycommunities.com or at ECC/HANH’s main office at 360 Orange Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06511. You are invited to provide written comments addressed to ECC/HANH, Attn: Maza Rey, P.O. Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509-1912. ECC/HANH will hold a public hearing to review comments and recommendations. The hearing will be held on Monday, June 5, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. in the Board of Commissioners Conference room at the Housing Authority of the City of New Haven, 360 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 06511. Any individual requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the hearing may call the Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator at (203) 498-8800 ext. 1507 or at the TDD Number, (203) 497-8434.

AVISO LEGAL La Autoridad de Vivienda de la Ciudad de New Haven propone hacer cambios al plan de Admisión del programa de Sección Ocho y a la Póliza de Continuo de Ocupación (ACOP) del programa de Vivienda Pública y al Plan de Administración del Programa de Sección 8.

Las revisiones propuestas están disponibles el 6 de junio en línea en www.elmcitycommunities.com o en la oficina principal de ECC/ HANH en el 360 Orange Street, New Haven, Connecticut, 06511. Los invitamos a que proporcionen comentarios escritos a ECC/HANH a la atención de: Maza Rey, P.O. Box 1912, New Haven, CT, 06509-1912. ECC/ HANH tendrá una audición pública para revisar comentarios y recomendaciones. La audición se llevara a cabo el Lunes, 5 de junio del 2017 a las 4:00 p.m. en la sala de reuniones de los Miembros de la Comisión localizada en el edificio de la Autoridad de Vivienda de la ciudatrd de New Haven, 360 Orange Street, New Haven, Connecticut, 06511. Cualquier individuo que requiere una Acomodación Razonable para tomar parte en la audición puede llamar a la Coordinadora de Acomodación Razonable al (203) 498-8800 ext. 1507 o al número de TDD (203) 497-8434.

24

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

AFRICA NOW: Zimbabwe’s First Lady Evicts More Than 100 Families

By Lauren M. Poteat, The Washington Informer /NNPA Member

Despite living in a democratic country, more than 100 families in Zimbabwe are now being forcibly evicted from their home farmlands by First Lady Grace Mugabe.

In spite of a recent court hearing last month that ruled against the first lady’s move to seize farmland for personal gain or to expand her empire in the farming area of Mazowe, many villagers who have lived in the area for over 17 years still find themselves being forcefully displaced by law officials.

The NewZimbabwe.com reported that a village spokesman said, “It was not easy for us to hand over our petition to [the Southern African Development Community], because of the absence of Swaziland’s embassy here in Zimbabwe.

Initially, we approached the South African embassy which referred us to [the] Botswana embassy, saying Botswana was the SADC secretariat, which again referred us back to the South African embassy, saying

that they were the ones representing Swaziland here in Zimbabwe.”

The village spokesman continued: “They finally received our petition and took down our contact details before they promised to get back to us.”

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will host the third edition of the Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Conference and Exhibition.

The Oct. 5-6 conference is expected to attract leading women in business, entrepreneurship, technology and government and incorporate panel discussions and workshops.

The AWIEF exhibition is also expected to offer an opportunity for organizations to showcase their

products, innovations, technologies and contributions to the African economy and society. Smallbusiness owners will also have a chance to market brands and network with prominent business leaders and corporate organizations.

To register for the conference, go to awieforum.org.

Rwanda to Host Transform Africa Summit For the third year in a row, Smart

Africa, a leadership-based organization for the betterment of business-minded Africa, will host their Transform Africa Summit in the country of Rwanda next month.

The summit is expected to attract more than 4,000 participants.

Based on the ideology for a connected Smart Africa, the event will highlight the organization’s five principles, including: putting Information Communication Technology (ICT) at the center of the national socio-economic development Agenda, improving access to ICT, improving accountability, efficiency and openness through ICT and putting the private sector first and leveraging ICT to promote sustainable development.

Smart Africa’s mission is to transform other African countries into emerging economies by the year 2030.

Lauren Poteat writes a weekly column for The Washington Informer about the culture, business and politics of African nations.

You can follow her on Facebook.

What A Wonderful World: A Louis Armstrong Tribute June 3 | 2:30pm | Hamden Middle School June 4 | 3:00pm | Shelton High School Trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling makes his NHSO debut with an electrifying and heartfelt tribute to Louis Armstrong. With his engaging rapport, jazzy vocals, and virtuosic trumpet sounds, Byron celebrates the spirit of New Orleans and will have you dancing in the aisles!

For Tickets, Information, and a Free Brochure 203.865.0831 x20 BoxOffice@NewHavenSymphony.org 25

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

Thurgood Marshall’s Widow Keeps His Legacy Alive

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Contributor

Cecilia Marshall never imagined that the battle for equal rights in schools and elsewhere would still be as vital today as it was six decades ago when her husband, United States Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, fought to end legal segregation as a civil rights lawyer with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.

“We haven’t made too much progress,” said Cecilia Marshall, 88.

“Sixty-three years later, we’re still fighting in the courts for equal treatment and that’s not what my husband, nor I would have imagined would be going on today.”

There’s little argument that one of the greatest achievements in the long and illustrious career of the late-Justice Thurgood Marshall, who died in 1993 at the age of 84, was the landmark decision in the 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education.

According to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, in 1940, “Marshall became the key strategist in the effort to end racial segregation, in particular, meticulously challenging Plessy v. Ferguson, the Court-sanctioned legal doctrine that called for ‘separate but equal’ structures for Whites and Blacks.”

The Brown v. Board of Education lawsuit began as five separate cases filed in South Carolina, Delaware, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Kansas. The plaintiffs in all of the cases alleged that the civil rights of their children under the 14th Amendment had been violated.

A biography about Justice Marshall that appears on The Legal Defense Fund’s website said that, “Marshall won a series of court decisions that gradually struck down [‘separate, but equal’], ultimately leading to Brown v. Board of Education, which he argued before the Supreme Court in 1952 and 1953,” finally overturning the doctrine and acknowledging that segregation greatly diminished students’ self-esteem.”

On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that separate educational facilities were “inherently unequal” and that racial segregation of public schools

violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The Brown v. Board of Education decision came more than a decade before Marshall’s appointment to the Supreme Court. The decision has been credited with inspiring the Civil Rights Movement that unfolded over the next decade and it also led to Marshall being recognized as one of the most successful lawyers in America.

“He accomplished so much and worked so hard, but I thought by now we would have come so much further. He would have thought that, too,” said Marshall, whom loved ones and others affectionately call “Cissy.”

Her work continues in her husband’s memory.

On the 63rd anniversary of

Brown v. Board of Education, Marshall and the Thurgood Marshall Center Trust plan to host a fundraising gala to observe the historic decision and to announce a call to action, which she’s titled, “Equal Education for All Based on the Brown Decision.”

The event will be held at the Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage in Northwest, Washington, D.C. “The problems remain and this event, this anniversary, comes against the backdrop of a significantly troubling retrenchment of access to education for AfricanAmericans, Latinos and other children,” Marshall said.

She cited a Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights report that said there are numerous factors that appear to have combined to cause the rapid re-segre-

26

gation of schools since 1991, the year her husband retired from the bench.

The courts began turning against desegregation plans in the 1980s—denying new petitions to desegregate schools, ending previous court imposed plans and even striking down voluntary plans created by local school districts, according to the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a diverse collective of more than 200 national civil and human rights groups.

Further, executive branch agencies topped the aggressive campaign to enforce the Brown decision and the Civil Rights Act that proved successful in the 1960s and 1970s, the Leadership Conference reported.

In a statement about the report, the Leadership Conference said that the rapid growth of the Hispanic and African-American populations and growing income disparities have increased the concentration of minorities living in high poverty districts.

Leaders from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and others plan to join Marshall at the historic event to celebrate the life and legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall.

“The NNPA reaffirms the living legacy of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall,” said Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA.

“We note this month the 63rd anniversary of the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision. Marshall utilized his legal genius and courage to win that case.”

Chavis continued: “Today, it’s important to reassert the critical importance of continuing to demand equal, high-quality education for Black American students and all students across the nation.”

Marshall, she said that, she still gathers with the wives of former and current Supreme Court Justices.

“We’re a big family, we call ourselves ‘sisters,’” she said.

Those get-togethers, as well as the success of her two sons— Thurgood, Jr., and John W. — serve to further validate her husband’s legacy.

“Seeing his sons grow up to become adults—Thurgood, Jr. a lawyer; and John serving in civil service—has been a great joy,” said Marshall. “My husband gave me and all of us a great life and his favorite slogan was something we’ve always lived by and I still live by today, especially when I think of the state of things in this country.”

She said that slogan is, “Never give up.”

Cecilia Marshall (2nd from left) and Justice Thurgood Marshall (right) in an undated photo. (Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage)

THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS May 10, 2017 - May 16, 2017

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