INNER-CITY NEWS

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THEINNER-CITY INNER-CITY NEWS June27, 24,2016 2020- August - June 02, 30, 2020 NEWS- July 2016

Black Workers Justice More LikelyatoKey FaceFocus Retaliation Raising Coronavirus Concerns Financial atfor 2016 NAACP Convention New Haven, Bridgeport

INNER-CITYNEWS

Volume 27 . No. 2393 Volume 21 No. 2194

Malloy Malloy To To Dems: Dems:

“DMC” The Sword of The Black Press

Ignore Ignore“Tough “ToughOn OnCrime” Crime”

The 40-Year-Old Gantt Report, Authored by Trailblazing Journalist/Entrepreneur Lucius Gantt, is One of the Longest-Running Newspaper Columns in America. In an Exclusive Florida Courier Newspaper Interview, He Tells Readers Why He’s ‘Stayed Black.’

Color Struck? Alders Celebrate

Juneteenth

Snow in July?

Black Museums From Coast to Coast to Launch BlkFreedom.org FOLLOW USCollaborate ON 1

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

Co-Op Valedictorian: "Believe In You”

of us didn’t even think we deserved to get to this point.” Once upon a time, not that long ago, she

was among those students. Before she arrived at Co-Op, Sims felt boxed in by her Blackness. As a little girl, she waged a war against her hair, a series of braids that her mother worked on painstakingly each week . By fourth grade, she had discovered and started using relaxer to straighten it. She figured it was a way to fit in with her white peers. Only later did she think of it as a form of internalized anti-Black racism. “My hair was my disguise to hide the brown skin I didn’t want others to see,” she wrote in a piece for the school newspaper, Co-Op Voices, earlier this year. “I was falling joyously into a hole of selfdeconstruction, internalizing the centuries of self-hatred that filled the consciousness of the smiling women of color on the boxes of Curl Out and hot comb ads.” Then four years ago, she arrived at CoOp. For the first time in her life, Sims saw herself reflected in the student body—and classmates who had hair that curled and bounced without explanation or apology. She cut her hair. She stopped using relaxers. She fell in with a new group of friends. At the school, she was in her element. Based out of the Creative Writing department, Sims wrote for the school paper, and then for the pages of this publication as well. She joined classmates in walkouts against school gun violence, rallies for public education, and silent sit-ins in support of teachers cut at the end of the last academic year. With several current and former students, she advocated for the school’s creative writing program after finding out that it was also at risk of getting cut. So when COVID-19 closed the school and moved her classes online, she kept going. She watched as her Co-Op family—classmates, staff, and faculty—did the same. She thanked her teachers, who have worked to keep student morale up during the pandemic with a series of funny, near-daily videos of their quarantine routines. This spring, she was admitted to Yale University. Her next chapter begins

there in the fall. Prior to high school I had put myself in a box, closed in by my race and where I was from,” she said. “I imagine most of us have stepped into similar containers, designed by society. For some time, I did not think I was good enough, nor did I believe in who I was.” “As a result of my time at Co-Op, I began to see my value as a Black woman, and hope that you are all able to experience a moment when you finally realize how amazing you are in your four years of high school,” she continued. “For those who haven’t, let this be the time that you finally believe in you and recognize the fact that you have more to offer than the world can take.” She urged her classmates to hold onto their memories of being together in the school: the discovery of a dead mouse in the cafeteria; the hallways where they sat in protest; dozens of dance, theater, band and chorale performances in the school’s auditorium. Sims joked that she would not miss the school’s steep stairs, which can leave even an athlete breathless by the fourth floor. Outside the school’s doors, she fondly remembered the sidewalks on which hundreds of feet marched, buses on which hundreds of sleep-deprived student heads napped, and excursions to Shake Shack where lunchtime secrets were shared and friends caught up with each other. Now, she suggested, it was time to look ahead. She encouraged her classmates to close their (Chrome)books triumphantly, and look out over the big, messy, exciting swimming pool that was their young adult lives. When they decided to dive in, she advised them not just to float, but to swim. “There are no greater, stronger people I’d rather be graduating with than the class of 2020,” she said. “Today, we let Co-Op go. But we get to keep the hard work we have invested in ourselves into the next phase of our lives.”

“Whether kids grow up with dialectical or standard versions of their first language, this is still an accomplishment. I spoke Southern dialect growing up and there were quite a few bridges I had to cross to get to standard English,” said Board of Education member Edward Joyner. The district’s world languages supervisor, Jessica Haxhi, has been running the program and described its successes to the BOE’s Teaching and Learning Committee on Wednesday. The state signed the program into law in 2017. The first year afterwards one New

Haven school implemented the program and graduated six with the seals. Last year saw three high schools and 47 graduates. This year NHPS tripled the number of high schools and graduated 148 officially biliterate students. Seniors passed tests in 13 different languages, including Bangla, Swahili, Spanish and Pashto. Most of the graduates speak these languages at home. For these graduates, the seal often validates the importance of that knowledge. With school closures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, many students had

to take the tests on their own. Haxhi said that the district sent students microphones and made sure they had laptops to take the tests on. The largest schools boasted the most bilingual graduates. Haxhi said that the program is not yet at the district’s only alternative school, Riverside Opportunity High School. Haxhi said that she aims to send 250 graduates across their stages with the seal next year, including more students who have picked up another language through their world language classes.

by Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper www.newhavenarts.org

Co-Op Valedictorian Samantha Sims was trapped in a box. Inside was her self-doubt, and a gnawing shame she felt around being a Black girl in the world. Outside, the world was waiting for her with open arms. When she broke down the sides—thanks to the help of her classmates—she found a future that was boundless. Sims told that story Wednesday night, in her valedictory address to the Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School (Co-Op) class of 2020. Local radio station WYBC streamed the address following a socially distanced, drive-through ceremony for 150 students at Lighthouse Point Park. The ceremony also included speeches from salutatorian James Solomon, who is headed to the Berklee College of Music, and Varick AME Zion Pastor Kelcy Steele. “It is with great excitement that I acknowledge the accomplished, talented, artistic, intelligent, enthusiastic, passionate, and most lit graduating class of CoOp High School,” said Principal Val-Jean Belton, praising grads for their willingness to navigate distance learning, brave cancelled school plays and proms, and look ahead to their college careers. “It represents four years of dedication and hard work in a season of an unprecedented pandemic.” Sims seized on that energy, shouting out her classmates for their persistence in the face of a public health crisis. Like her 149 graduating peers, she has not stepped foot inside the school since March 12. Before Wednesday’s physical ceremony, she hadn’t seen her teachers for months. Around her, she’s watched friends absorb and reckon with the realities of quarantine, distance learning, and COVID19-related illness and death. “I know there was a time in each of our careers when we did not think we would make it to graduation, nor did we believe we were ready to leave high

Co-Op Highschool school behind,” she said. Her voice on the livestream was crackly but firm, like an old-school radio host on a hot mic. “Some

# Of Officially Bilingual Graduates Tripled by EMILY HAYS

New Haven I ndependent

Over 140 seniors walked across New Haven graduation stages this year with diplomas certifying that they are proficient in multiple languages. This was the first year that all nine standard New Haven Public Schools offered students the chance to earn the Connecticut State Seal of Biliteracy. To earn the stamp on their diploma, students must meet all their English language graduation requirements plus pass a standardized test for another language.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

18 Diplomas, 18 Victories by COURTNEY LUCIANA

Eighteen students got diplomas Friday at a school designed for kids in danger of not making it that far. And each one had a story. Riverside Academy first-year Principal Derek Stephenson showcased every student’s story as they absorbed the spotlight while walking the runway to receive their diplomas. “We’re saving lives. Bottom line,” Stephenson said. “This is the only alternative school in New Haven at this time. It’s needed on so many levels. I explain to students who come here, this is not a consequence, this is another opportunity.” As Chrstian DeLeon Marrero took the stage, Stephenson acknowledged him as one of the most resilient students who had attended Riverside. Marrero said he studied a lot to reach the finish line. “Thank you so much to everybody,” said Marerro. “Thank you for everything, Mr. Stephenson.” Steve Mikolike has been a teacher of certified support services for special education for over 20 years. Mikolike said Marrero won an award for resilience because he had some issues commuting but stuck it out. “That’s my everything right there,” Mikolike said referring to Marrero. “There’s closure today, and it’s a new beginning and reminding the students that this is their journey going forward.” Oscar Morales Quinones (pictured) said that it was thanks to his mom that he graduated. “Today means a lot,” said Quinones. “I never had a dad, so my mom was everything for me while I was growing up.” Quinones plans to take a year off before attending Gateway Community College to study business. Shy’Kita Corbitt said she had faith in herself and held close bonds with both school social workers, Claudette Robinson-Thorpe and Nancy Hill, and school counselor LaKeisha Bittle. “I knew I was going to make it,” said Corbitt. “I’m one of the best students here.” Corbitt will be attending Gateway with hopes to transfer to University of New Haven to major in psychology. LaKeisha Bittle said her Shy’Kita have become so close that they call and text everyday. “We take an individual approach when we work with our students,” said Bittle. “Whatever support is needed, we give it.” When the pandemic hit, Hill worked with approximately 30 students, including after hours, to ensure support both personally and socially for the students. “I did spend a lot of time on the phone

COURTNEY LUCIANA PHOTO Cross grad Atziri Rodriguez, who earned biliteracy seal on top of APs.

Steve Mikolike with Christian Marrero.

just problem solving,” said Hill. “Reassuring the students that we are completely aware of what’s going on in the world and that it is a huge adjustment. We had to make sure to give them what they needed in regards to accessing the necessary technology or internet services in order to succeed.” Robinson-Thorpe said Riverside is the place for students who don’t work in a traditional high school. “We have a wonderful principal that supports everyone in the building and the students,” said Robinson-Thorpe. “Regardless of covid affecting the community, the kids rose to the challenge.” Math teacher and senior advisor Melvin Campbell said the students become a part of his family. “We talk about anything,” said Campbell. “We talk about life, finances, and how to prepare them for their futures. We talk about how high school isn’t the end of success and their options going forward.” Principal Stephenson announced the arrival of Edwin Ortiz by listing off his characteristics as Ortiz journeyed around the bend and exited his vehicle, crossing over into the book of graduates. “Let’s get a good look at this man,” Stephenson said. “Perseverance, selfadvocacy, great attendance, and fantastic

attitude.” “Today means a lot to me. I’m happy I graduated,” said Heaven Moseley. “I’m going to Gateway for 2 years and then two years out of town to study criminal justice.” When Mikayla Franklin and her two children walked, the entire staff ran up to admire her determination. “This is truly a Riverside success story,” Stephenson said while Katy Perry’s “Firework” played to set the tone. “You are determined. You believed in yourself and we believed in you.” “Today is the start of my new life,” said Franklin. “I had one of my daughters senior year who was born premature, and she was sick. The beginning of that was the hardest part, and raising two daughters wasn’t easy at all.But they’re my motivation.” Franklin has plans to become a pediatric nurse. Superintendent of New Haven schools Dr. Iline Tracey (pictured) said she was touched by Franklin’s victory. “When I saw the determination of that young lady’s face and the whole idea of not letting anything stop her from making progress, I really appreciated that,” said Dr. Tracey “I really appreciate all of the staff members for working with these students. They need us. We need them.”

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DONT LET THEM COUNT YOU OUT!


THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

50 Fitch Shut Down Amid Covid Concern by PAUL BASS

New Haven I ndependent

Prompting accusations of racism from the owner, the city closed down the popular 50 Fitch restaurant and bar and revoked its license after an event that drew an estimated 1,000 people to its parking lot amid restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of the coronavirus. City Health Director Maritza Bond and state Marshal Peter Criscuolo served the papers at the Fitch Street establishment late Monday morning. Maritza and other city officials in a Covid-19 task force had been at the establishment Saturday night when Monsanto’s crew served drinks and chicken to patrons on the outdoor patio and in the parking lot (pictured above). Officials estimated more than 1,000 people were present. Patrons were charged $10 to enter the lot, which had VIP tents set up. The city towed cars parked illegally on side streets as well. Building Official Jim Turcio ordered the establishment to shut down the event immediately. “I first arrived on-site as part of the inspection conducted by the task force, and witnessed over one thousand patrons at this establishment in violation of the outdoor dining capacity guidelines, State rules for outdoor events, and various health codes,” a city press release quoted Turcio as saying. “We spoke to the owners of this establishment and made a request that they shut down immediately, with which they did not comply, and we had no choice but to shut them down as a result of these violations.” Bond’s order, dated Monday, revokes Monsanto’s license and closes the premises until further notice. A notice to Monsanto and partner Michael Amato stated the gathering violated state public-health rules issued to stem the spread of Covid-19, as embed by Executive Order 7ZZ as well as state Department of Economic and Community Development rules for large gatherings and events and venues, as well as Title III, Chapter 14 of the New Haven Code of Ordinances. That included requiring attendees to remain six feet apart, ensuring they wear masks, keep outdoor deck seating to 50 percent of allowed capacity, and “creating a condition specifically declared to be a public nuisance.” The order was issued amid concerns about a second wave of Covid-19 cases and deaths stemming from the state’s business reopening. Monsanto was notified that on Monday Bond would return to serve notice and post signs closing down the establishment. As Monsanto (pictured) waited for Bond to arrive, she vowed to appeal the closing to the state. She disputed the allegations. She said she did not exceed the capacity for the patio (which would have been around 13 or 25, depending on whether patrons were six feet apart). She denied that she charged for food and drink. Rather, she said, the $10 charged to drivers entering the lot gave them a “refundable coupon” for drinks and food. “If you’re not going to be drinking

“You’re the problem!” “I’m the solution!”: Marshal Criscuolo spars with co-owner Monsanto outside Fitch 50 at Monday’s paper-serving.

PAUL BASS PHOTO

or eating food, you have no business being here,” she said. She claimed she did shut down the food operations as a courtesy to Turcio, “my neighbor.” Echoing arguments from a federal lawsuit she filed against the Elicker administration and the governor earlier this year in protest of Covid-19 restrictions, Monsanto accused the city of discriminating against her club because of its black clientele. She noted that neighbors in Westville fought her opening the club three years ago. “They violated my civil rights,” Monsanto charged. “People are allowed to be outside. It was a Juneteenth celebration. It’s no different than Black Lives Matter.” In Facebook postings, Monsanto cited the crowd of thousands of largely white, unmasked Donald Trump fans who crammed a campaign rally the same evening in Tulsa as an example of a double standard. Bond and Criscuolo arrived Monday around 11:30 a.m. Monsanto walked away from Criscuolo as

he attempted to serve her with the papers. (See above video.) “Get away from me!” Monsanto declared as they wove around the lot from the patio to the front. “Have a nice day,” Criscuolo, wearing an American flag face mask, responded, continuing pursuit. “Stay away from me! I’m not accepting anything,” Monsanto said. “Get off my property! Why you on my property! ... You’re part of the problem.” “No, I’m the solution. You’re the problem,” Criscuolo insisted. “You’re the problem!” responded Monsanto. By that time Bond (pictured) had gone inside and served Amato. “She has no right to touch my wall! That’s an abuse of power! She should be arrested!” Monsanto declared. She attempted to go inside. Criscuolo sought to prevent her. “Don’t hit me with the door. It’s assault,” he alleged as Monsanto sought to enter.

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“It’s my establishment.” Criscuolo flashed his badge. “I’ll cuff you,” he threatened. “It’s abuse of power. I have a right to go in my establishment,” Monsanto said. “You closed the door on my foot.” “I didn’t touch him! You guys witnessed that. I didn’t touch you! You guys have it on camera,” Monsanto said, pivoting to reporters. “The health director said not until she posts her signs.” Bond posted the signs. Monsanto went inside. She and Bond returned outside. “She’s calling me a racist,” Criscuolo, who’s white, complained. “Obviously, I’m not.” Bond (who is Latina) said she wasn’t targeting the establishment because of race, but instead responding to “numerous” complaints she received Saturday night, and then what she viewed as a public-health threat. Bond’s notice orders the establishment to “cease and desist all operations immediately.” It also revokes the establishment’s Health Department license. “I want to remind residents of the city that we are still in a pandemic,” a subsequent city release quoted Bond as saying. “Taking the necessary health precautions is critical to containing the spread of COVID-19, which continues to pose a serious threat to public health in our community. Nonetheless, this incident revealed this establishment was in clear violation of various health codes, and conditions of zoning approval, not just those related to the restrictions put in place due to the pandemic.” Monsanto and Amato have a right to appeal by requesting a public hearing before the state Department of Health. Monsanto said to count on it. Monday evening, three dozen loyal 50 Fitch patrons showed up in the parking lot beginning at 6 p.m. to show their support for Monsanto. They echoed Monsanto’s defense and decried disparate treatment of businesses with Black clientele. “We’re standing by her. We’re not going nowhere,” said former Alder Carlton Staggers. “She has a heart of gold.” Before Covid-19, he said, the institution was “harassed by neighbors. They don’t want ‘certain people’ because they’re scared something is going to happen.” Staggers and other attendees spoke of the dearth of food-and-drink spots like 50 Fitch in town that cater to a largely Black clientele. They also spoke about how many other large public gatherings are taking place despite the Covid-19 restrictions. Several people tied the shutdown order to experiences they face in everyday life of coming under suspicion because of their race. Monsanto also spoke about President Trump’s campaign rally the same night in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where a largely white, often unmasked crowd thronged for an officially sanctioned event with no social distancing in a city that’s currently a Covid hot spot.

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Memberships National Association of Black Journalist National Newspapers Publishers Association Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce Greater New Haven Business & Professional Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. The Inner-City Newspaper is published weekly by Penfield Communications, Inc. from offices located at 50 Fitch Street, 2nd Floor, New Haven, CT 06515. 203-387-0354 phone; 203-3872684 fax. Subscriptions:$260 per year (does not include sales tax for the in State subscriptions). Send name, address, zip code with payment. Postmaster, send address changes to 50 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515. Display ad deadline Friday prior to insertion date at 5:00pm Advertisers are responsible for checking ads for error in publication. Penfield Communications, Inc d.b.a., “The Inner-City Newspaper” , shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad or for typographical errors or errors in publication, except to the extent of the cost of the space in which actual error appeared in the first insertion. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication. The entire contents of The Inner-City Newspaper are copyright 2012, Penfield Communications, Inc. and no portion may be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher.


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

It’s going to take a community to beat this. And what a community we have. In these challenging times, our talented and tireless team of doctors, nurses and staff is doing everything in its power to research, diagnose and treat this virus in the cities and towns we all call home. Because our community deserves world-class care, right here. ynhhs.org

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

Alders Celebrate Juneteenth June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

on the statue, mostly at its base, but some in one of the figure’s hands. A few minutes later, Walker-Myers stepped up to the podium to speak. This is a celebration, she said, but “I don’t want people to go away from the reality.” “All these years later we are still marching and trying to be noticed,” she said. Before she had begun to speak, Troy Smith, sitting in an electric wheel chair, rolled in front of the group of alders and stopped, facing the crowd. He held up a poster with rips on its corners that showed the face of city police Officer Dennis O’Connell with the words “Wanted for multiple counts of police brutality” printed above his image. Last week, a group of silent protesters walked from Fair Haven to City Hall to protest police brutality. They stapled the posters to telephone poles as they went. O’Connell has been accused nine times of brutality without serious discipline. Walker-Myers did not stop talking. She continued as Smith sat on the sidewalk and held the sign. “We have to start calling out the things that’s not right,” she said. “We have to start… changing policies and truly believing that all lives matter. Because if you ask me, being an African American woman, I don’t believe that. I don’t believe that when people have to go out there and protest just to say, ‘Please don’t try us on the streets and kill us.’” After a minute or so, Smith lowered the poster and rolled away down the sidewalk. “Let’s celebrate, but let’s celebrate in the right way,” Walker-Myers continued. “Let’s challenge our friends. Let’s challenge ourselves when we see something that’s not right.” Next year, the caucus may have a different statue at which to hold its annual Juneteenth celebration. Jeanette L. Morrison announced that on Sept. 26, the city will unveil a statue of William Lanson, a black entrepreneur who was instrumental in the development of New Haven in the early 19th century, at Scantlebury Park. Watch a video of the whole event below.

by SAM GURWITT

New Haven I ndependent

Red, pink, white, and yellow flowers lay at the foot of the Amistad Memorial in front of City Hall Friday afternoon as Beaver Hills Alder Jill Marks broke into impromptu song. She was waiting for local artist Truey Sensei to deliver a rap performance. While he got his speaker set up, she took a microphone and sang. “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine,” she sang. The rest of the Black and Hispanic Caucus of the Board of Alders joined in. “Let it from New Haven, I’m gonna let it shine,” she continued. The rest of the alders standing next to the Amistad memorial clapped and sang with Marks. They did not hold any lights, as members of area fraternities and sororities had done the night before in the same place. Instead, a hot sun beat down on the crowd of about 50. They were gathered in front of City Hall for the caucus’s annual Juneteenth celebration. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce that all slaves must be freed. A few hours before the event, the city sent out a press release announcing that Mayor Justin Elicker and Board of Alders President Tyisha Walker-Myers (pictured above) had declared Juneteenth a city holiday. They also urged Gov. Ned Lamont and the General Assembly to recognize it as a state holiday. Hamden Mayor Curt Leng also officially recognized Juneteenth on Friday. Earlier in the day, hundreds of people gathered across the street, on the New Haven Green, for a Juneteenth liberation march and teach-in. Youth Services Department Business Manager Gwendolyn Williams (pictured above) kicked off the alders’ event with a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” commonly considered the black national anthem. She said she sings with her church, Bethel AME. After a few brief speeches, Hill Alder Carmen Rodriguez handed flowers to the other alders standing in front of the statue. Once they all had flowers, they turned and placed them

Truey Sensei.

SAM GURWITT PHOTO Jill Marks, with microphone.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

Backyard Bash Brings Black Triumphs Alive by MAYA MCFADDEN

New Haven I ndependent

A Father’s Day and Juneteenth celebration hosted in a Newhallville backyard highlighted New Haven-based organizations and movements to recognize the local Black community’s past and present triumphs. The intimate walk-through celebration at the Ivy Narrow Bird Habitat was hosted by the Amistad Committee and Connecticut 29th Colored Regiment C.V. Infantry. Organizers Jackie Buster, Kai Perry, Kelly Mero, and Meredith Benson had originally canceled the event due to safety concerns about hosting a large gathering amidst Covid-19. When the nationwide Black Lives Matter protest began, the organizers decided it was necessary to put the event on. “There’s not enough opportunity to celebrate as Black people. We are often grieving or fighting the battle of oppression,” said Perry. This is the third year the organizers have hosted a Juneteenth celebration. This year’s gathering pushed visitors to walk through the celebration to get information on work being done by organizations throughout New Haven, then tune in on a Facebook live broadcast with speakers. Babz Rawls Ivy hosted a series of live interviews on WNHH FM with invited guests on the front porch of 205-207 Ivy St. Topics ranged from voter education, police brutality, helping kids understand racism, and policy-based social change. To kick off the gathering, Reginald

Hoffler led the group in a prayer and libation. “I pore this libation for everyone of color, of every color, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, and class who seeks lasting peace in our country today,” he said. Audra Clark, New Haven Reads Science Park site director, distributed free books for visiting families. Many of the books pictured black and brown families which Clark intentionally picked and offered at the celebration. Options were offered for pre-K through high school students. In Daddy’s Arms I Am Tall and Aunt Flossie’s Hats (and Crab Cakes Later) were titles amongst the pile. A mother and her 7-year-old daughter picked up a copy of Aunt Flossie’s Hats (and Crab Cakes Later) from Clark. “It stuck out because I can still remember my own grandmother’s favorite church hats to this day. I’m hoping she can read it with her grandmother and get a piece of that Black nostalgia,” said mother Keisha Edwards. “We always want to take the opportunity to motivate and uplift the kids who look like the ones on these books,” said Clark. Edwards stopped at the event with her daughter to take a break from running errands. “I tell her [daughter] that today is a holiday celebrating Black power,” she said. Marcellus Edwards Basileus of Chi Omicron Chapter Omega Psi Phi Fraternity joined his brothers at the celebration handing out masks to visitors.

Kai Perry, Meredith Benson, and Babz Rawls Ivy.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority were also amongst the Greek support shown at the event. Rawls-Ivychatted with many including retired police officer Jeffrey Fletcher, who brought along with him a collection of historical African American artifacts and memorabilia. Fletcher’s exhibit, known as “The Badge Beneath the Robe,” will soon be displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American

History & Culture. Rodney Moore, coordinator of New Haven Healthy Start Male Involvement, talked with visitors about the Healthy Start father’s program. For the celebration, Moore highlighted the importance of respecting Black men as fathers and creating a healthy Black family dynamic. With Moore was Juan Acevedo, who has been a part of the father program for nearly two years now. Father of three, Acev-

edo got help with managing child support and building a healthy relationship with his kids and their mother. Kiyama Movement founder Michael Jefferson tabled alongside his brothers of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Jefferson highlighted the Black Men Vote Too initiative. “We work to get Black men involved in electoral politics as sophisticated voters,” he said. Jefferson provided information on voter education at the Juneteenth celebration as an effort to “develop our black community,” he said. Antoinette Badillo, NAACP Greater New Have political action chair, tabled with President Dori Dumas, registering eligible visitors to vote. Badillo brought along 100 registration forms and encouraged New Haveners to register to have their voices heard. “It’s especially important because our ancestors fought for this right. Why give up the opportunity?” she said. A free Juneteenth face mask was given to each person who registered. The pair also provided visitors with information on the 2020 census. “We want them to understand that the census helps to resource our communities. We all deserve to be counted,” Dumas said. “Being engaged is empowering.” Badillo and Dumas talked with one visitor, Divonne, who expressed his distrust for the government and therefore efforts like the census. “You guys remember Tuskegee,” he said, referring to the Tuskegee syphilis experiment. Con’t on page 14

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

Black Workers More Likely to Face Retaliation for Raising Coronavirus Concerns By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent

As more corporations jump into the fray, offering statements of support for African Americans in the aftermath of the police killing of George Floyd and the ensuing protests, a new study reveals that many companies’ actual policies and practices contradict their public statements. With just a small amount of research, short-term marketing and public relations positioning using words proclaiming empathy, understanding and support of Black causes can too often be found to be in direct contrast of long-term human resources dictates. A survey by the National Employment Law Project (NELP) about working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic confirms that corporate America has treated Black workers categorically worse than White workers during the pandemic. African Americans were twice as likely to answer “Yes,” or “Maybe,” when asked if they or anyone at their company had been punished for raising COVID-19 safety concerns. The survey found that Black workers were roughly twice as likely to have been retaliated against by their employers for speaking up about health concerns and requesting time off work. For instance, Amazon fired Black and brown workers who have organized to demand more substantial health and safety protections. Thousands of Instacart workers, many of whom are women of color, are reportedly waiting for face masks and hand sanitizer promised months ago. Three out of four Black workers who took the survey said they showed up to work during the pandemic even though they believed they might have been seriously risking their health or the health of family members. Less than half of White workers said they had done the same. “Our results suggest that virus transmission in the workplace may be exacerbated by employer repression and that the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black communities may be related to greater exposure of Black workers to repressive workplace environments,” the

study’s authors wrote. “While Black workers at any given worksite tend to be treated worse than their white counterparts, the study’s authors suggest that Black workers, as a whole, tend to work in more repressive environments than White workers,” noted vice.com. The higher likelihood of retaliation that Black workers face means fewer of them feel safe reporting concerns or have had their concerns addressed. The survey found that Black Workers were more than twice as likely to have unresolved concerns about coronavirus at their workplace than their White counterparts. Thirty-nine percent of workers surveyed reported that they had either raised concerns to their employer and did not receive a satisfactory response or did not out of fear of retaliation. Meanwhile, only 18 percent of White workers found themselves in the same position. “This is saddening to hear and somewhat unsurprising. I can’t believe the world we live in. Still, as I have lived in it for a great number of years, I am actually thankful that such practices are coming to light now,” Andrew Taylor, the director of the Net Lawman. This firm provides legal document templates and law-related services to individuals and businesses who are looking for an alternative to using a traditional firm of lawyers. “My thoughts on this study pushed me to ask about the segregation of employment and where these people are working. Obviously, we must focus on the roles Black workers are in to make changes from here.” Amit Raj said he was working part-time as a pharmacist earlier this year when he raised concerns. “As we were working within an office within a warehouse where there were almost no changes to working practice despite the pandemic. Since we were deemed an ‘essential service,’ we were also not allowed to work from home,” Raj stated in an email. “Despite bringing this up on many occa-

sions and management being aware, I was first just ignored. And was soon demoted from an assistant manager position,” he said. “However, the reason given for the demotion was that my part-time hours were not allowing me to manage effectively. I have now decided to place my focus on my digital marketing business.” Raj has since founded Amit Digital Marketing.

Talia Fox, the CEO of KUSI Training, a global transformational leadership development firm, said in an email that the study concerns her mostly because of her two sons who have to work in the current environment. “I have two sons and wear three hats, mother, Black woman, leadership strategist. If I am honest, I am afraid, afraid of the challenges my two young black men will face in the world,” Fox noted via email. “When my fear settles, it turns to anger,

and I wonder why people are not doing anything. I want to blame someone, anyone for the injustices in the world,” Fox noted. “Then, my anger leads me to look in the mirror. What do I have to give? What is my role in this? I am a leadership strategist and an educator. I have seen knowledge, understanding, and strategy, and implementation transform businesses and inspire people to drive and lead change, which anchors my hope that a better future is possible for my two black men.”

Black Museums From Coast to Coast Collaborate to Launch BlkFreedom.org BlackNews.com

Nationwide — On June 19th, six leading Black museums and historical institutions from coast to coast have joined forces to launch BLKFREEDOM.org, a digital commemoration of Juneteenth, the day that the Emancipation Proclamation was officially enforced, ending enslavement in Texas. BLKFREEDOM.org aired an original video presentation featuring appearances from Lonnie G. Bunch III, the first African American and first historian to serve as the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, as well as Dr. Johnetta Betsch Cole, anthropologist, educator, museum director, and the first female African American president

(left to right) Lonnie G. Bunch III, the first African American and first historian to serve as the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution; Moni Tep, program director and co-facilitator of a number of art programs in Seattle, WA; and Dr. Johnetta Betsch Cole, anthropologist, educator, museum director, and the first female African American president of Spelman College

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of Spelman College, and the Honorable Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress, the first woman and the first African American to lead the national library. The launch of BLKFREEDOM.org commemorated the 155th Anniversary of Juneteenth. Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when union soldier, Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with the news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. This announcement was more than two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. BLKFREEDOM.org is a combined effort between Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (Detroit,

MI), Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park (Hill Head Island, SC), Northwest African American Museum (Seattle, WA), Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater (Miami, FL), National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Cincinnati, OH), and the National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, TN). Through educational content, artistic performances, and shareable discussion prompts, this collaborative program will explore the meaning and relevance of “freedom”, “justice” and “democracy” in Black American life, from a historical and contemporary framework. To learn more and subscribe for updates, visit blkfreedom.org.


THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

The Sword of The Black Press The 40-Year-Old Gantt Report, Authored by Trailblazing Journalist/Entrepreneur Lucius Gantt, is One of the Longest-Running Newspaper Columns in America. In an Exclusive Florida Courier Newspaper Interview, He Tells Readers Why He’s ‘Stayed Black.’ By the Florida Courier Staff Never heard of Lucius Gantt? Here’s a sample of why he’s been considered one of America’s most provocative Black journalists for more than 40 years: From “Jogging While Black” – I think closet Klansmen that are living by their guns today can easily die by a gunshot tomorrow, especially if they push up on a person of color that has a permit to carry a weapon. From “Protest Pimps”– The people in Black communities that are hurting and mourning are not impressed by protest clowns that come to town to deliver philippic rants and raves that were choreographed and orchestrated by rednecks, hillbillies, conservatives and closet Klansmen! From “Bernie’s Busted Revolution”– Turn out the lights, the party is over for Bernie Sanders. The “revolution” has been canceled! Bernie chose to hire Black campaign workers that would parrot his messages and rubber-stamp his over-the-top proposals. Sanders did not spend with Black media outlets, didn’t utilize Black political professionals, did not focus on issues of interest to Black voters and the Bernie Sanders campaign didn’t have a clue about how to motivate and influence the masses of Black voters. The Gantt Report told you for decades that no Democratic candidate can win a rat race, a sack race or a political race without strong Black voter support. Just a taste Those are excerpts from just three of Gantt’s most recent columns that he’s written almost every week for 40 years. In every one of 2,000-plus columns, his viewpoint has been pointedly and aggressively pro-Black – something that even some Black readers don’t like. “I don’t try to write the columns that people like. I write the truth whether people like it or not!” Gantt exclaimed in an exclusive interview with the Florida Courier, Florida’s statewide Black weekly newspaper. Young writer Gantt, an Atlanta native born in 1950, began his media career as a 17-year-old production assistant at Atlanta’s WSB-TV, one of the country’s oldest TV stations. At the time, there were no Blacks working on the frontlines of TV news. Married at age 19 and the father of a child, he was soon hired full-time as a television writer and as a TV researcher at Cox Broadcasting. At the same time, he studied journalism and philosophy at then all-White Georgia State University. Those facts alone are testaments to his tremendous writing skills and work ethic. Making history Gantt was also initiated in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s Zeta Theta Chapter at Georgia State in 1969, serving as its founding basileus (president) when the chapter was established. He was first president of an Omega

Determined to walk “I was determined not to go back to the state Capitol in a wheelchair,” he remembered. “Meanwhile, the Black lobbyists I train stole my clients by telling them ‘Lucius had a heart attack.’ It was a lie. “And none of my former clients, including none of the Black legislators or Black members of Congress, contacted me doing that whole three-year period. But you know who did? Jeb Bush, who was governor at the time.” Gantt maintains that Jeb Bush was the best governor for Black-owned businesses.

Gantt (far right) with former Florida Governor Lawton Chiles (center) and Florida Black newspaper publishers, all members of the powerful Southeast Black Publishers Association.

chapter located in a predominantly White college in the South. He also was the president of the Black Federation Alliance, a Black radical student organization at Georgia State that the Atlanta Police Department and the FBI identified as one of Atlanta’s most dangerous on-campus groups. “Back then, you had the Black Panthers, the Weathermen, Students for a Democratic Society, and others. One day, Atlanta cops came in class looking for me in connection with a drive-by shooting at our organization’s house. They said, ‘Where’s Lucius Gantt?’ All my White classmates pointed to me.” Gantt was pulled out of the classroom but was soon released. D.C., then New York After graduating from Georgia State in 1972, Gantt was awarded a graduate fellowship to enroll at the Washington Journalism Center. While there, he worked as a U.S. Capitol correspondent, reporter and documentary producer for National Public Radio. His 1973 documentary about gospel music’s impact and contributions to all musical genres was aired on 77 radio stations nationwide at the time. After graduate school, Gantt accepted a job as a sportswriter for The Associated Press (AP) in New York City, where he covered all major sports – at the age of 23. “AP New York is the top of the journalism game worldwide,” he explained. “It’s as high as you can go. Any English-speaking newspaper around the world will have an AP New York story in it. “That’s what separates a world-class journalist from a journalist. A Miami Herald journalist is local. I’m all-world.” During his AP New York tenure, Gantt wrote

three of the top 100 most popular AP stories worldwide. All three were sports stories. In 1974, he returned home after being transferred to the AP’s Atlanta bureau to cover baseball home run king Henry “Hank” Aaron’s effort to break the home run record held by Babe Ruth.

On to management In 1975, Gantt decided he wanted to be in news management. He took the job of public affairs director at WFSU-FM, the radio station operated by Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida’s capital. There, he created highly-rated news shows and won a national award, the Ohio State Award for radio documentary production. While at FSU, he also earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation science. Gantt left radio to become executive producer and host of the “Vibrations” TV show, one of the highest-rated locally produced Black-oriented news shows in the nation. Vibrations stayed on the air for 15 years, a media longevity that’s very unusual for local programming. Everywhere in Tallahassee Wherever media was in the Tallahassee area, Gantt was there. He wrote columns for the Tallahassee Democrat daily newspaper, the Flambeau, FSU’s school newspaper, and even did occasional play-by-play announcements for Florida A&M University basketball. It was his writing style at the Democrat that got him into trouble. “Every politician read the Tallahassee Democrat every day. It’s the daily newspaper of the state capital. They pulled me aside and said ‘Lucius, you are going too hard. We have

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to do business with these politicians.’ But I refused to quit writing the way I write. I had to tell the truth.” Gantt said that a White Republican from South Florida pulled him aside and told him to consider writing his own column and mailing it to subscribers. “I asked him what I should name it, and he said, ‘The Gantt Report.’ That was similar to ‘The Kiplinger Report,’ a newsletter that was very popular at the time. I took his advice.”

First subscriber “The Gantt Report started out as a newsletter, then it became a tabloid, before he told me that I should quit trying to be a publisher and just write the column and send it out. Garth Reeves, the publisher of the Miami Times (Florida’s oldest Black-owned newspaper), was the first newspaper owner to subscribe and publish the column in his newspaper. And at the beginning, even White newspapers published The Gantt Report.” In 1980, Gantt started his own media business, All World Consultants. He financed its startup with the proceeds from a wrongful termination and racial discrimination lawsuit he settled with FSU. The Gantt Report started soon thereafter. Serious injury For 20 years, All World was riding high. Gantt served as media consultant for the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators while lobbying Florida government for doctors and hospitals. He also produced and hosted a statewide TV show in Florida called “View from the Top.” Things changed in 2000. He was in a bad car crash that cause a traumatic brain injury. He stayed out of the public arena for three years to rehabilitate himself and fully recover.

“Jeb took things personally,” Gantt says. “He did more than (former Florida governors) Lawton Chiles, Rueben Askew, Charlie Crist, all those governors Black people love to love. “Instead of a set-aside, Jeb picked up the phone and told every Florida agency head, ‘Your evaluation is going to be based on how much business you do with Black businesses.’ That was enough. And every agency started advertising in Black newspapers. I know, because All World was handling the money.” During the time Gantt was trying to recover from the car accident, he kept writing. His first book was a collection of Gantt Reports entitled, “I Talked About the Beast.” Two other books followed, including his latest entitled, “Beast Too: Dead Man Writing.” Firsts and awards The Gantt Report is one of the most widely read opinion columns in America. Excerpts from The Gantt Report are on display in the National Freedom Museum’s Freedom of Speech section. Gantt was one of only two people elected to serve as president of the Southeastern Black Publishers Association that didn’t actually own a newspaper. He was nominated for the position by Charles W. Cherry, Sr., the founder of the Daytona Times and the Florida Courier. Support also came from Levi Henry of the Westside Gazette, Garth Reeves of the Miami Time and Ike Williams – all Black newspaper heroes and publishers based in Florida. State Senators Perry Thurston and Darryl Rouson flank Gantt. Gantt has received ADDY Awards for advertising excellence, the Capitol Outlook Newspaper Community Service Award, a FAMU Small Business of the Year award, a FSU Black Student Union Award and other accolades. He continues to write columns, does advertising and media work and facilitates financial and commodity trades for national and international clients though his commodities company, All World Financial. ‘The voice’ The Gantt Report has been” the voice of the voiceless,” he believes. “I say things that people in the community Con’t on page 14


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

Black Entrepreneur Reinvents Retail For Black Hair & Beauty Products economic empowerment with the Black dollar constantly circulating within the community. 4th Ave Market empowers Black entrepreneurs by giving them a popular and simple platform on which to sell their products. And because 4th Ave Market is online, Black beauty and hair care suppliers don’t have to worry about distribution challenges and shelf space restrictions. “4th Ave Market is great because they provide access to our consumers in an affordable way. And I love how they eliminate some of the usual retail distribution challenges Black hair care entrepreneurs

By BlackNews.com

White Plains, NY -– 4th Ave Market has exploded onto the scene as a new Blackowned online retail platform tackling economic inequality in the Black hair care and beauty supply industry. Black people spend $2.5B annually on hair care and beauty products, yet they only own 7% of all beauty supply stores. And historically, the Black entrepreneurs who make beauty products haven’t been able to get distribution in large retail stores as big brands spend money to keep them off the shelves. 4th Ave Market CEO, Salim Holder, cofounded the company, which is now the largest Black-owned online hair care and beauty supply store in the United States. “Our goal is to create a simple shopping experience and offer easier access to a diverse inventory of the brands that Black people love. And do so at prices that are up to 30% lower than traditional retail.

Thanks to our loyal customers, our sales have been organically doubling monthover-month,” said Holder.

The historic 4th Avenue District in Birmingham, AL once thrived as a center for Black culture, entertainment, and

Lil Baby’s “The Bigger Picture” and 5 Other Popular Songs About

normally face,” said Pamela Booker, Koils By Nature CEO. The company is creating an innovative and sustainable ecosystem powered by the people it serves. 4th Ave Market provides expert and community curated tips to help customers find the best products for them. And it keeps its audience inspired by highlighting remarkable people in the Black hair care and beauty space. A portion of all their profits is reinvested back into the Black community through local and national organizations and partnerships. Learn more at 4thAveMarket.com

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George Floyd and Black Lives Matter

Needcare? care? Need Call1-800-230-PLAN 1-800-230-PLAN Call By BlackNews.com Nationwide — The murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers has sparked a worldwide movement that includes protesting in nearly every city across the globe, and also a lot of songs by artists who are expressing their frustration through their music. Here are the top 5 most popular songs that address Black Lives Matter and the current state of racial tension in America: #1 – The Bigger Picture by Lil Baby: In this rap song, much different from his others, Lil Baby lyrically addresses current issues about racial tension in urban cities head-on. His viral music video, which shows him out in the community

supporting the cause, has garnered more than 18 million views. #2 – I Can’t Breathe by H.E.R.: This R&B tune by the Grammy award-winning princess of soul is a nice melody for an older and more conservative audience to vibe to. She even surprises listeners at the end of the song with a little bit of spoken poetry that speaks about generations and generations of pain. #3 – Black Lives Matter Freestyle by LL Cool J: The 52-year old rapper turned actor reminds new schoolers that he was indeed one of the pioneers of hip-hop. In this viral freestyle, he raps about racism and injustice and even mentions a little bit about America’s political climate. #4 – I Can’t Breathe by Deitrick Had-

don: In this soft R&B song, gospel singer Deitrick Haddon plays the piano as he soulfully sings lyrics addressing exactly what happened to George Floyd the day he was killed by police. The song itself is not a gospel song, but it definitely has an uplifting feel to it. #5 – I Can’t Breathe Song by The Undiscovered Artist: This song, infused with R&B and pop elements, has a very haunting feel as the singer details what has happened to one too many unarmed African American men. Although the artist doesn’t mention their names, the song directly references George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery. It’s a powerful tune for sure.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

A Juneteenth Reminder: Protect Your Joy by Rachel Ababio, The Arts Paper www.newhavenarts.org

The question hovered over the audience panel. More than 100 viewers eagerly awaited a response. “How do you maintain Juneteenth joy in light of police brutality, BIPOC death, and COVID?” That question echoed through “Untold Black History,” a Juneteenth-centered roundtable hosted by Students for Educational Justice (SEJ) Thursday night. Panelists included professor and curator Frank Mitchell, Dean Risë Nelson, director of the Afro-American Cultural Center at Yale University, and SEJ alum Benie N’sumbu. N’sumbu is now a a rising sophomore at Boston College. It was moderated by SEJ Deputy Director Briyana Mondesir, who is now a rising sophomore at Washington and Lee University. SEJ Executive Director Rashonda McCollum also facilitated some of the discussion. SEJ is a youth-led, intergenerational nonprofit organization based in New Haven. It advocates for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) representation and the representation of other historically marginalized groups through educational reform and anti-racist teaching. Despite the pandemic, students have continued to meet weekly via Zoom. Thursday, it convened the discussion to honor the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, which marks the formal end of chattel slavery in the U.S. On June 19, 1865, MajorGeneral Gordon Granger issued Order No. 3 in Galveston, Texas. The directive unshackled the last slaves under the Confederacy, entrenched deepest in the South. At the top of the discussion, McCollum noted that the group is still entrenched in anti-racism work 155 years after that first historic date. Last year, students from SEJ worked with State Representative Bobby Gibson, Citywide Youth Coalition, CT Students for a Dream, Elm City-UROC, and Hearing Youth Voices to pass House Bill 7082. The bill mandates that all Connecticut schools offer elective courses on Black and Latinx studies by July 1, 2021. “While it’s great that we were able to get this act passed, there’s still a lot more work to be done,” McCollum said. “What we really wanted during that time was a required course on the history of race and racism and required anti-racist and anti-bias training for all teachers.” McCollum and Mondesir continued that work during Thursday’s event. In a poll that evening, only 62 percent of participants could define Juneteenth, and 99 percent had never learned about the holiday in school curricula. To educate attendees, Mondesir and McCollum provided fundamental questions for the event’s panelists to answer: “What is ‘Juneteenth,’ and why do you think it’s important? How did the United States allow the enslavement of Black people to continue for more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation?” Mondesir also moderated as panelists addressed community members’ questions and concerns. The three panelists came from dif-

ferent careers and stages of life: Mitchell is the former director of the Amistad Center for Art & Culture in Hartford and has spent years as a writer, filmmaker and curator chronicling the rich, deep histories of Black Americans. Nelson has almost two decades of experience in higher education and multicultural affairs. She is the first New Havener named to her positions as Assistant Dean of Yale College and Director of its Afro-American Cultural Center. N’sumbu is a Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School grad who has testified, organized, written op-eds and held teach-ins around building anti-racist curricula in the city’s schools. N’sumbu (pictured above) spoke to the youth on their level, with the passage of House Bill 7082 still fresh on her mind. She’d gone through the state school system, she explained. She’d seen internalized racism tell her peers to bury their Blackness deep. N’sumbu had read the history books, sat in the classes that discounted Black heritage, her heritage. Despite the gravity of her experiences, she took the time to lighten the mood with a recap of her latest Real Housewives of Atlanta binge. Nelson and Mitchell framed the world of Black academia, fine art, and soul. Nelson took pride in being a Black born and bred New Havener, but she also admonished its gaps in her education. She’d never learned about Rev. James W.C. Pennington, an escaped, formerly enslaved person turned Yale’s first Black admit. Who’d told her about Phi Beta Kappa Society’s Edward Bouchet, a Yale physics alum and America’s first Black man to graduate with a Ph.D.? No teacher spoke about how New Haven had rejected Simeon Jocelyn’s proposal to build the first historically Black college. Mitchell hadn’t heard any of that growing up in Ohio. During the panel, he explained that New Haven’s first Jubilee had actually occurred in 1784, when gradual emancipation reached Connecticut four years after Pennsylvania (the final documented sale of enslaved people in New Haven was not until 1825). It was a splash, the flourish of Black song, art, dance, and culture in the area. Free Blacks had danced and paraded in the Green past 1865 and clear to the present. Mitchell joined in when he first moved to New Haven; he’d never experienced Juneteenth’s Black brotherhood and love in the rural Midwest. “Freedom comes in waves,” he said. “It’s a slow process, at least it has been for Africans in the Americas and the rest of the world. Juneteenth is the perfect mix of commemoration and celebration—it feels virtuous and joyful, but you can’t deny its solemn nature. People feel incredibly tentative and anxious to talk about our history because it is such a minefield—it’s not going to get any easier.” The Juneteenth informational quickly evolved into a discussion of Black history, systematic oppression, anti-Black racism, and the role that white supremacy has played for 400 years of American history. “They tried to kill us,” Mondesir said at one point. “Black people—we weren’t supposed to get to this point. Even now, we’re facing a lot of trauma and difficulties, fighting for

to the wounded. Nelson explored the feminist vein. She told viewers about the queer, Black scholar Moya Bailey and her concept of misogynoir, the junction of racism and sexism that millions of Black women face each day. She spoke about the erasure of Black history in schools (in New Haven, that hits home: the student body is 46 percent Latinx and 37 percent Black, while teachers are 73 percent white). She spoke on New Haven’s own Black Panther trials, the 50th anniversary of which fell in May. As a New Havener herself, N’sumbu spoke about the sadness she felt learning that Mondesir had only recently discovered the history of La Amistad, a Spanish-owned, Portuguese-operated slave ship on which enslaved West Africans staged a revolt in 1839. After Americans intercepted the ship, the Africans were captured and jailed in New Haven. A city trial for their freedom became an early Supreme Court case. The captives were freed, and able to repatriate thanks to money raised by abolitionist societies in the U.S. A monument next to City Hall commemorates that decision. Sierra Leone, from which they were originally captured, illegally sold into slavery, and treated as human cargo, remains one of New Haven’s seven sister cities. “Black history is also American history,”N’sumbu said. “It’s very disheartening and disappointing for a Black student to be in class and not learn these important events that happened, not just in America, but to your people. It just makes you feel disconnected. If we don’t learn it, we disconnect from our ancestors, our traditions, our culture, our roots; we lose a part of ourselves, our identity.” “The history that we are taught makes us seem one-dimensional,” she continued. “Where are the facets of our culture, of our lives in American culture and history? It’s always: ‘you were slaves, and you fought, and you’re free—then Obama came, and racism ended!’” She threw her hands in the air in exasperation and continued.

photos: Rachel Ababio survival as we face the crises that just keep coming.” Mitchell highlighted the unnamed Black soldiers that fought with the Union in the Civil War. He revealed that the sight of them confirmed rumors of the Emancipation Proclamation in the South. The declaration demoralized Southerners and invigorated the people they had enslaved to revolt. He spoke about the brutality and savagery the Black community has regularly faced and continues to face. He spoke about the Black women whose names have been lost to the sands of time. Along with Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth, Black women were the backbone of efforts during the Civil War. They rallied for freedom, hid escaped slaves, acted as spies, and served as nurses

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“We’re not just that, like, hello? There are so many parts of us that we don’t acknowledge! We need to flush out those nuances and get to the roots of these issues so that we can undo them. It’s so harmful that we don’t learn the little details that aren’t so little.” The panel pivoted to educational reform— not only curriculum changes but change for individual Americans on a “real, internal level.” N’sumbu reflected on her time in SEJ, and on the efforts the group made to pass House Bill 7082. They lobbied. They gathered student testimonies. They examined the racial and social climate of area schools. They saw teachers disregard Black history as supplementary, their Black students as supplementary. Mitchell jumped in, challenging listeners to create spaces “okay to stumble in.” Many of the teachers he’d met personally were deeply uncomfortable speaking about race in any way, afraid they’d say the wrong thing. He explained that the wrong thing needed to be

said, that those mistakes were the “first, crucial steps to change.” “Everybody should celebrate Juneteenth because we should celebrate independence in America,” she said. “By now, I think everyone can acknowledge or should acknowledge that the 4th of July was not Independence Day for all those who lived here. Black people, our voices, our issues, should be centered, amplified, and elevated every day, not just in the shortest month of the year.” “And so, those who celebrate with us should keep that in mind. It should be recognized by all as a day for reflection and a call to consistent, ongoing action. We need many more voices in this. We need non-Black voices in this. I think that it’s important that this must be a part of the curriculum, not just as supplemental information or optional information, but as core—this is truly integral to American education.” The discussion reached a crescendo upon the arrival of one question, read after student Faraji Dial-Johnson presented her poem “Bound.” I’m watching my people get shot., one excerpt read. The anger bleeds, Watching our people dying, / Without rights to the world. It makes me anxious on what’s going to happen next. What happens next? An attendee, moved by the poem, wanted to know: how do panelists sustain joy amidst the grief of the current moment? They explained that that includes the parallel pandemics of racism and COVID-19, which has killed Black Americans at a rate three times higher than their white counterparts. Mics went silent for a moment as people thought. Finally, N’ sumbu spoke: “I’ve been trying to figure out how.” With the news on her phone so overwhelming, N’sumbu explained that she chose to engage with Black creatives and art. She streamed videos of Black artists in their craft, tried to find shows on Netflix with Black casts. She went “crazy surrounding herself with everything that represented Black joy.” Mitchell also enjoyed simple pleasures. He wanted to take Juneteenth to “cook something good for himself,” outlining a traditional barbecue with a side of watermelon and Red Pop. Nelson called for healing. “I think self-care is a truly revolutionary act, especially at this time,” she said. “To my fellow Black folx on this call, take care of yourselves. While we’re in the middle of this global pandemic that is disproportionately infecting, affecting and killing Black people, we have to focus on our wellness, self-care, and wellbeing—mentally, spiritually, and financially.” “We must educate others only when we have the capacity to do so. We all have our work to do in undoing a lot of internalized racism, misogynoir, and other forms of oppression. Take advantage of all of the resources that we have at our fingertips.”


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

LAW AND ORDER AND WHITE SUPREMACY by Oscar H. Blayton As a young child, I was unfortunate enough to have a trace of reddish hair and relatively pale skin for a Black person – remnants of an interracial rape three generations distant in my family tree. While I measured my misfortune in personal terms – being taunted by my elementary schoolmates as “a little white boy” – the greater dilemma my physical appearance evidenced was the catastrophe of white supremacy that has plagued the entire world over the past four centuries. The rape of my African American great-grandmother by a white man was ignored by law enforcement authorities in the western North Carolina county where the crime was committed because it was not that unusual an occurrence. The rape of Black women by white men at that time and in that part of our nation occurred frequently. On the other hand, any suspicion of rape of a white woman by a Black man produced howls of rage and an execution, usually by lynching after torture. The lynching of Black folk was almost always done in the name of “law and order.” Something of value to the white community had to be protected. It was this way during the days of slavery. It

is this way today. And to clearly understand how this was able to take place all these years, we must understand what law is. Law is a process of authoritative control, where certain empowered community members establish and maintain a particular public order. In the 1880s in North Carolina, that particular public order allowed white men to rape Black women with impunity while dealing a death sentence to any Black man who was believed to have assaulted a white woman. The laws were not written in the books that way, but neither are today’s laws that allow armed white murderers to be taken into custody alive, while unarmed Black men are summarily executed by police for selling cigarettes without a license. Law is more than the written statutes and the constitutions. It is also the implementation and execution of written and unwritten notions of public order. If a police officer or a judge deems it in the best interest of public order to treat Blacks one way and whites another, then that is the law unless and until a higher authority steps in. That is the law, but it is not justice. Americans usually are not taught the difference between “law” and “justice,” and by conflating the two, we are blinded to the injustice of many laws and the manner of their execution. When the Nazis were empowered to establish and maintain their public order, it was “legal” in Germany to do the horrific things they did to Jews and members of other minority groups. But after World

War II, the Nazis were no longer empowered, and under a new law of that land, their acts were declared criminal and several were hanged. Many laws in America are unjust, and many more are executed in an unjust manner. Until we confront this and acknowledge it, we will live in a land plagued with injustice. Race-based laws reigned supreme in the American South until the federal government developed the will to strip Southern states of their powers to allow the rape, murder, robbery and dehumanization of African Americans. But this was low-hanging fruit. The segregationists and race haters were so disgustingly vile that America could not hold its head up in the global community if it allowed their crimes to continue unchecked. Unfortunately, it took tragedies like the murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till for America to stop and reflect on what was happening. But once the low-hanging fruit was plucked and the Ku Klux Klan and segregationists like Alabama Gov. George Wallace were driven back into the shadows, the cancer of white supremacy was left to fester and metastasize throughout the body politic of this nation. Today, we have the murder of George Floyd, yet another unarmed Black man, by yet another white police officer and there is a new awakening of the American conscience. Floyd’s murder is a clear symptom of the out-ofcontrol cancer of white supremacy in this country. The whole world sees it and their protests let us know that they

8th Billboard “Masked Up” by MAYA MCFADDEN

New Haven I ndependent

The eighth and final billboard was put on display Tuesday for the city government’s Covid-19 “Mask Up” campaign on Middletown Avenue. The billboard showcases a masked portrait of local musician and producer Aaron “Y.A” Rogers with the New Haven Covid-19 hotline number and the words: “Any one, any age can get the virus.” The series of billboards displaying local influencers will stay up four weeks from the date they were posted. “It shows that not only are they [influencers] proud of helping their community, but it also helps to spread the public health message through different channels and mediums,” said city arts chief Adriane Jefferson, who helped put together the “Mask Up” campaign.Jeff Cronin a bill poster for Outfront Media installed the final billboard Tuesday morning.

Many of the influencers have been sharing their faces on social media to celebrate while also spreading the word about maskwearing to their audiences. The influencers’ shares have ranged from taking pictures in front of the billboards to shooting music videos in front of them. The campaign used community influenc-

ers of color to pose and spread the word particularly to black and brown residents, whose communities have been hit the hardest by the coronavirus. “People are excited to see other people that look like them on billboards. It’s not something that happens every day,” Jefferson said. Using trusted and influential community members for the campaign can spread facts in a respected, powerful, and culturally relevant way, Jefferson said. The other billboard posters are displayed on Whalley Avenue, Dixwell Avenue, State Street, Humphrey Street, Quinnipiac Avenue, Forbes Avenue, and the Ella T Grasso Boulevard. “We are seeing the power of using community voices and artist’s voices as activists within their own community,” said Jefferson. “We’re able to say to the intended audience that your life matters, black and brown lives matter, so please mask up.”

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do not like it. Americans who claim to be law-andorder advocates can now be asked: What law? What order? What justice? Why do those elected officials who claim to champion law and order go silent when a police officer breaks the law and murders a Black victim? I do not expect the “law-and-order politicians” to respond to these questions. However, fair-minded Americans should weigh those hypocrites on the scales of justice, and if they find them wanting, remove them from office. Oscar H. Blayton is a former Marine Corps combat pilot and human rights activist who practices law in Virginia. Con’t on page 08

Backyard

“I remember and you remember Tuskegee, which is why we need to do this,” said Dumas. “If we want better things like streets, after-school programs, and hospital services, we have to be counted.” In an effort to highlight local blackowned businesses, Rhythm Brewing Co. was invited to table. Rhythm Brewing is Connecticut’s first African-American woman-owned beer company. Elaine Berrios, Rhythm Brewing Co. operations manage,r distributed cards for the company and face mask to purchase. “It’s great to be in a space with people who think like you,” said Berrios. The Amistad Committee’s Connecticut Freedom Trail brought along historical journals for purchase about historical efforts made by New Haven communities during the civil rights era, in the Black Panther party, and events of the slave ship La Amistad. Amistad Committee member Clinton Robinson spoke with visitors that stopped by the table about the importance of sharing the correct interpretation of black history. Robinson grew up with an interest in the civil rights era and joined the NAACP as a lifetime member at 14. “These here share the gospel of black history,” he said of the various journals for sale. A bronze Amistad statue was also for purchase. The hefty triangular sculpture pictured Joseph Cinqué with the words “Make us Free.” Buster, who owns the property of the celebration was hosted at is a descendant of five soldiers from the 54th and 29th Civil War regiments. “Juneteenth is different this year and will continue to be after this year. This is a turning point for Black America. We are unapologetically pushing for a global revolution,” said Benson. “This is a new renaissance.”

Con’t on page 10

The Sword of The

want to say, but for whatever reason they can’t or won’t say. I know I can write. I’ve always had that talent. It’s a good thing I can share it with my people,” he concluded. “I could have stayed at WSB, AP, FSU, if I had done as most Black people do – which is turn their back on their community. When the White man says, ‘Fire the Black man,’ they don’t hesitate. I could never do that stuff.” What’s the inspiration? Gantt listens to Black people. “Ninety percent of The Gantt Report is what I hear Black people say on the train or at the bus stop or the barbershop. I consider the rest of the columnists as ‘scholars.’ I got the education, but I ain’t trying to write like no scholar. “I felt like I had a big responsibility. I had a talent. I knew how to make money. I’m just following my calling. I’m just living out my destiny. “The thing I’m most proud of is never changing. I didn’t wake up one morning saying, ‘I’m mad at the world. Let me write something hard in The Gantt Report.’ I’ve been hard since I was 17. Ain’t no change. The truth is the truth. How can you change the truth? “The Gantt Report is No. 1 in the Florida prisons. Don’t ask me; ask the prison guards.” Religious scholar Gantt uses his formal training in philosophy on a regular basis in The Gantt Report, which occasionally refers to biblical scriptures. “I’ve studied Islam, Santeria, Yoruba, Confucianism, Baha’i, Christianity, all of that. But some of my most popular columns involve ‘the cat,’ ‘the dog, and ‘the snake,’ he grinned. How did it come about? “I heard a guy talk about ‘hitting the cat’ and I thought he was talking about a real feline,” Gantt laughed. “I didn’t know he was talking about hitting the pussycat, as I say for decent folks. “People can use their imagination. It’s just a fun thing. I don’t want to talk about politics or economics every week. It’s my attempt to make readers smile sometime. ‘The cat’ was a comedic column that folks have held onto.” Gantt says he has elderly fans. “I know some 90-year-old residents in Florida. I tell them, ‘I’ll send you some Gantt Reports. They say, ‘Don’t send it to me. Just send me something about the cat.’ Senior citizens love the cat columns, because they know what it’s all about. “They know that cat is crazy. That cat can’t be controlled. That cat ain’t going to obey you. And some of them are cats,” he laughed again. ‘Tremendous career’ Gantt is very proud of his life of writing. “I’ve had a tremendous career. I worked at the top. I’m a real journalist, not a lawyer pretending to be a journalist. When I covered the Capitol, John Conyers and Andy Young were in Congress. I covered baseball when Willie Mays was playing. “I was before all those people you love now…Craig Melvin, Yamiche Alcindor… I’m old-school. But I’m still relevant today. And that’s amazing.”


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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Elm City Communities

Elm City Communities

Robert T. Wolfe Elevator Repair

Invitation for Bids Tree Maintenance Services

The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking T. Wolfe Elevator Repair. copy Housing of the requirements HOME Bids INC, for on Robert behalf of Columbus House and A thecomplete New Haven Authority, may be obtainedpre-applications from Elm City’sfor Vendor Portal apartments https://newhavenhousing. is accepting studioCollaboration and one-bedroom at this develbeginning income on opment located atcobblestonesystems.com/gateway 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum limitations ap-

The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking Bids for tree maintenance services. A complete copy of the requirements may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing. cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

NOTICE Invitation for Bid

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

ply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AMat TO3:00PM 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y Monday, June 15, 2020 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received the offices ofCompany HOME INC. Applications be mailied upon for reCentrally LocatedatConstruction in Connecticut haswill a position available quest by calling HOMEOffi INC 203-562-4663 duringJob those hours. preexperienced Full-Time ce at assistant / Bookkeeper. Support A/P,Completed A/R Payroll. experience required, MSat Offi ce,Orange Street, Third applications must QuickBooks be returned to HOME INC’s offices 171 Internet / Emails. Salary depending on experience. Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

This company is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer M/F. Females and Minorities are encouraged to apply. Please fax resume to ATTN: Mike to 860-669-7004.

NOTICIA

HAMDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está

Theaceptando Hamden pre-solicitudes Public Schoolpara System (HPS) located in Hamden, Connecticut Conestudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en esteseeks desarrollo necticut certified teachers who have a passion for working in diverse and dynamic school ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos settings. The ideal candidate has experience working in culturally, socioeconomically, máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 and racially diverse learning environments.

julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) enhas las approximately oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por 1correo a petición HPS 5,000 students attending 8 elementary schools, middle School, llamando a HOME al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse 1 high school, and 1 INC secondary alternative program (HCLC). Our demographics are as a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street,33% tercerWhite piso, New Haven22% , CT Hispanic 06510 . follows: 32% Black/African-American students; students; (Latinx) students; 8% Asian students; 5% Two or more races; and less than 1% Native American and Pacific Islander students.

We are seeking candidates for multiple positions, including but not limited to: ï Special Education (pre-K thru 12) ï Mathematics ï Social Studies ï Spanish 242-258 Fairmont Ave ï Social Work 2BR Townhouse, 1.5positions BA, 3BR, level , 1BA holders While we are seeking candidates for these specifi1 cally, we encourage of certifi cates other areas tonew apply as well. Itnew is also important that the All newinapartments, appliances, carpet, closetotonote I-91here & I-95 Hamden Board of Education is committed to creating and maintaining highways, near bus stop & shopping center a diverse teaching staff. Petcandidates under 40lbcan allowed. parties @ 860-985-8258 Interested access Interested Hamden.org, clickcontact on theMaria Personnel tab, and then click on Online Applications. Anyone seeking additional information can contact Hamden Public Schools Human Resource Director Gary Highsmith via email at ghighsmith@ CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s hamden.org. Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates

NEW HAVEN

in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:30-

Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. It is3:30 theContact: policyChairman, of Hamden Public Schools that no person shall be excluded from, denied (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster the benefits of, or otherwise discriminated against under any program including employSt. New Haven, CT ment, because of race, color, religious creed, sex, age national origin, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, past or present history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY The Town of East Haven

is currently accepting applications for the position of Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, Firefighter D/Paramedic. Salary-$58,057/year. Candidates must possess a valid Seymour, CTfrom 06483 Concrete Sidewalk Repairs andDiploma Replacement the Driver’s License thefor State of Connecticut; a High School or GED;atParaSmithfield Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Seymour. medic License Gardens from the State of Connecticut or be enrolled in a Street Paramedic Program that

can be completed within 2 years; must be 18 years of age; and have a valid CPAT Card submitted by July 1, 2019 to be eligible for employment in the first round of hiring or A pre-bid willanytime be heldwith at the Housing Authority Office 28List; Smith must submit aconference valid CPAT card in the 2 year life of the Eligibility pass Street Seymour, CTdrug at 10:00 am,and onbackground Wednesday, Julyin20, 2016.to Civil Service a physical examination, screening check addition Testing. Candidate must not use tobacco products. The application for testing is available online at www.FirefighterApp.com/EastHavenFD. The deadline for submission is June Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Of30, 2020. The Town of East Haven is committed to building a workforce of diverse infice, 28Minorities, Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579. dividuals. Females, Handicapped and Veterans are encouraged to apply. The Town of East Haven is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any

Monday, June 29, 2020 at 3:00PM.

MIDDLETOWN HOUSING AUTHORITY 40 BROAD STREET MIDDLETOWN , C.T 06457 The Middletown Housing Authority seeks additional applicants for Monarca Place, a 16 unit elderly/disabled federal public housing development. All units are designed for the sensory impaired and a priority will be given to households with deaf and/or blind household members. Monarca Place is a public housing development funded by the U.S. Department of HUD.

Low Income Limits by number of Household Members is as follows: 1 persons $54,950 2 persons $ 62,800 3 persons $ 70,650 4 persons $ 78,500

Applications will be available at the Main office, 40 Broad St. Middletown, Ct. Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30. Applications may be obtained by calling the Main office 860-346-8671, fax 860-347-0534, email lori@middletownha.org, or website www.middletownha.org.

The Authority administers its programs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status or national origin. If you require special assistance due to a disto Bid: please contact the Authority. ability to complete the application Invitation or need information

2nd Notice

Middletown Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Houser.

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT DOT Certifi ed Welder

(4 Buildings, Units)or equivalent experience Applicants must have a minimum of 317years Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Projectto lreopell@ as a CT DOT Certifi ed Welder. Please Wage emailRate resumes cjfucci.com or fax #203-468-6256 attention Lee Reopell.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, CastShingles,opportunity Vinyl Siding, employer. All C.J. Fucci, Inc. isin-place an affiConcrete, rmativeAsphalt action/equal Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, This contract is subjectveteran to state set-aside and contract or disability status.compliance requirements. Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 Listing: Commercial Driver Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Immediate need forProject a full time Class A available driver forvia petroleum deliveries for days and documents ftp link below: weekends. Previous experience required. Competitive wage, 401(k) and benefits. Send http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage resume to: HR Manager, P. O. Box 388, Guilford, CT 06437. Fax or Email Questions & Bids to:Action/Equal Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com ********An Affirmative Opportunity Employer********** HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

LEGAL NOTICE of TOWN OF PORTLAND, CT

Town of Portland has amended its Citizen Participation Plan for the purpose of informing the public about its intent to apply for CDBG, Covid-19 funding. For a copy of the amended Plan go to www. portlandct.org.

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CITY OF MILFORD Seeking qualified condidates to fill numerous vacancies to include,Publiac Health Nurse, Deputy Tax Collector, For information and detailed application instructions, visit WWW.ci.milford.ct.us Click on SERVICES, JOBS and JOB TITLE. State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Lead Planning Analyst position. Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions for this position is available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/ CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1= 200521&R2=0007AR&R3=001 The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

APPLY NOW!

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay. Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

DELIVERY PERSON

NEEDED Part Time Delivery Needed

One/Two Day a Week,

Must Have your Own Vehicle

If Interested call

(203) 387-0354 CITY OF MILFORD

Seeking qualified condidates to fill numerous vacancies to include, Director of Operations Milford Landing Marina, Recreation Director, and more. For information and detailed application instructions, visit WWW.ci.milford.ct.us


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Assistant Mechanic / Maintainer 4 - DPW Highway Division Town of Portland, CT (EOE) NOTICE Deadline: July 6, 2020

TownVALENTINA accepting applications for full-time Assistant Mechanic in the PublicAVAILABLE Works Highway Division; works with MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PREAPPLICATIONS lead mechanic in general repair/maintenance of all gas and diesel vehicles, trucks and heavy equipment, including brakes, exhausts, engine tuning, and related work. Applicant should have welding experience, perform diagnostic HOMEperform INC, onoilbehalf of Columbus House and the Newassist Haven Housing Authority, analysis, changes, lubricate equipment/vehicles, drivers with snow plow and sander installation. is accepting for studio andAFSCME one-bedroom this ts. devel40 hours weekly;pre-applications starting hourly wage $27.30; unionapartments with fringeat benefi Subject to pre-employment opment located 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum ap- school diploma or GED drug/alcohol testing,atClearinghouse and DMV background check.income Qualifilimitations cations: High ply. Pre-applications be available from 9AMand TOequipment 5PM beginning equivalent supplemented will by training in automotive repair, Monday minimumJu;y 2 years experience vehicle maintenance combination of pre-applications education & experience; must have 25, 2016 or andequivalent ending when sufficient (approximately 100)valid haveCT Commercial Driver’s License. Send General Employment Application First Selectwoman’s Office,upon P.O. Box been received at the offices of HOME INC.to: Applications will be mailied re- 71, Portland, CT 06480071 quest by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed pre-

applications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third

Floor,OF New Haven, CT 06510. CITY MILFORD Seeking qualified condidates to fill numerous vacancies to

include,Public Health Nurse, Deputy Tax Collector, For information and detailed application instructions, visit WWW.ci.milford.ct.us NOTICIA Click on SERVICES, JOBS and JOB TITLE.

360 Management Group Company 360 Management Group Company is currently accepting applications for currently accepting applications forJustice WaverlyisTownhouses, Fulton Park and Stanley

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

AMENDMENT TO PORTLAND CITIZEN PARTICICPATION PLAN

Waverly Townhouses, Fulton Park and Stanley Justice

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está Located in revitalized neighborhoods, our newly renovated townhouses In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Town of Portland is amending its Citizen Participation Plan, aceptandoand pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio estepublic desarrollo Located in revitalized neighborhoods, newly renovated townhouses feature two, three and four bedrooms,our all with convenient access to to promote support “social distancing” while continuing to offerenthe an opportunity to provide ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos feature two, three and four bedrooms, all with convenient access to transportation, great schools and amenities. Community features include valuable citizen input and insight into the policies, and procedures of the Town of Portland, particularly as máximos. Las administration pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando 25 transportation, great maintenance, schools and amenities. Community include 24-hour emergency resident activities and features access to it relates to the and implementation of its federal programs.Martes The following process will be julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido (aproximadamente 100) used to solicit citizen participation andsuficientes input intopre-solicitudes any programmatic amendments necessary to quickly and playgrounds. Families who qualify for Housing Choice and Voucher (Section 8) 24-hour emergency maintenance, resident activities access to en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por or correo a petición effectively administer federal funding made available either directly indirectly as a result of the COVIDassistance willFamilies pay nowho morequalify than 30% of their adjusted annual income for8) playgrounds. for Housing Choice Voucher (Section a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse 19 llamando Pandemic. rent. assistance will pay no more than 30% of their adjusted annual income for a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 . rent. • Effective April 2, 2020, consistent with the Mega-waiver issued by HUD on March 31, 2020, and for a period ending June 30, 2021, community input prior to drafting a substantial amendment to any plan will REQUIREMENTS: be waived, including but not limited to an approved consolidated plan or annual action plan concerning the Earnings must be between 0%-60% of the Area REQUIREMENTS: proposed uses of CDBG, HOME, NHTF, ESG and HOPWA funds. Medium Income Earnings must be between 0%-60% of the Area • The Town of Portland has prepared this amendment to its current Citizen Participation Plan, to discuss (AMI). Please see the table below for specific income and household Medium Income the Covid-19 CDBG funding now available to the Town to prevent, prepare and respond to the COVID-19 requirements. Selections will be made via a lottery system. Invitation to the Bid: table Crisis. The State of CT expects to receive $7.8 Million dollars for eligible CDBG activities that benefit low (AMI). Please see below for specific income and household nd and moderate income people such as Public Services, Housing 242-258 Fairmont Ave and Technical Assistance. The Town intends requirements. 2 Notice Selections will be made via a lottery system. # People to apply for these funds for eligible activities. 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA in 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 • The Amendment will be posted in a prominent place on the Town’s website, along with a notice identify#Househol People All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 ing the availability of the amendment. The Notice will include the opportunity to provide electronic comOld Saybrook, CT ind 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 highways, bus stop & shoppingon center ment for a period of not less thannear five days and information participation in a “virtual public hearing”. As (4 Buildings, 17 Units) Househol part of the the allowed. Town will provide parties information how @ citizens who have special needs may obtain Minimum $20,52 $23,10 PetNotice, under 40lb Interested contactonMaria 860-985-8258 Tax Exempt Wage Rate Project $25,65 $27,72 $29,77 $31,82 $33,87 d& Not Prevailing the Amendment in a form which is accessible to them. 5 0 0 5 5 5 5 • Such Notice will be published in at least one newspaper of general circulation, and will include at least Minimum $20,52 $23,10 $25,65 $27,72 $29,77 $31,82 $33,87 $49,26 $55,44 $61,56 Cast$66,54 $71,46 $76,38 $81,30 Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s oneCT.(1) minority publication. New Construction, WoodMaximum Framed, Housing, Site-work, 5Selective Demolition, 0 0 5 5 5 5 Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 • Certificate Copies of the Notice will be posted on the Town’s webpage and will be emailed to all local organizations in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:30and3:30 Community Partners as Joe well as the Town Contact: Chairman, Deacon J. Davis, M.S., B.S. Department heads and the local regional planning agency. Maximum $49,26 $55,44 $61,56 Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework,$66,54 $71,46 $76,38 $81,30 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster •(203) Any comments received, either at the virtual public hearing or during the public comment period will 0Apply online 0 0 0 0 0 0 at https://ecc.myhousing.com New Haven, CT be St. considered by the agency before the final amended action plan is submitted to the town of Portland. AMechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. or download an application at: Thisaction contract summary of the comments and the Town’s responses will be an attachment to the final amended plan.is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements. http://www.cthcvp.org/ Apply online at https://ecc.myhousing.com • The procedures and actions discussed above will constitute the Town’s citizen participation plan for http://www.elmcitycommunities.org or download an application at: any substantial amendments, which may need to be made in the course of the program year. A "substantial Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 amendment” to the plan is one which implements a change in the use and/or method of distributing those http://www.cthcvp.org/ ToAnticipated receiveStart: an application August 15, 2016by mail, please call 475-355-7289 or send a funds. http://www.elmcitycommunities.org Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour written request to Attention: Waitlist Coordinator, Elm City Communities, PO documents available via ftp link below: • This amended citizen participation plan will itself be made available to the public for a five day public com- Project until 3:00prior pm toonimplementation, Tuesday, August 2, 2016 its office 28 Smith Street, accordingly. Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509 ment period and any interestatgroups may at review and comment

NEW HAVEN

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage To receive an application by mail, please call 475-355-7289 or send a

written to Attention: Waitlist Coordinator, Elm City Communities, PO Submitrequest paper applications

Fax or Email QuestionsBox & Bids1912, to: Dawn New Lang 203-881-8372 Haven, CT • @In persondawnlang@haynesconstruction.com at 06509 360 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511 Laborer: The Town of East Haven is currently accepting applications for the position ofHCC Laborer encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Sectionbox 3 Certified Businessesat the front door); or (via the drop located in its Public Works Department. Qualified candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED, some Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith • Submit paper applications Mail to PO Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509 experience in heavy manual labor; any equivalent combination of education and experience and a valid and AA/EEO EMPLOYER • In Street Seymour, CT at from 10:00theam, onofWednesday, 20,pay 2016. person at 360 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511 appropriate driver’s license State Connecticut.July Base for this position is $43,275.00 per year the dropaccommodation box located at the front door); (July 1, 2020)/year. The application is available at http://www.townofeasthavenct.org/civil-service-commisIf you need a(via reasonable to complete theorapplication: • Mail to PO Box sion/pages/job-notices-and-tests and must be returned to the Civil Service Commission, New Haven, CT 06509 Call1912, 203-498-8800 ext. 1507 Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Of- 250 Main Street, East Haven CT 06512. The Town of East Haven is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Females, Veterans Applications will be available on 6/08/2020 28 Smithare Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579. andfice, Handicapped encouraged to apply. If you need a reasonable accommodation tobycomplete the application: Applications must be submitted 7/3/2020

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any

16

Call 203-498-8800 ext. 1507


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years or equivalent experience as a heavy equipment/truck mechanic repairing and maintaining Diesel and Hydraulic excavation equipment including hydraulic excavators, dozers, dump trucks, etc. Experience in welding and a CDL license are preferred but not required. VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

NOTICE

C.J.HOME Fucci,INC, Inc.onis behalf an affiof rmative action/equal employer. AllAuthority, applicants will be considered Columbus House andopportunity the New Haven Housing forisemployment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this devel- gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third INVITATION TO BID: LaRosa Building Group invites all trade contractors to bid 540 New Park Floor, New Haven, CT 06510. Avenue in West Hartford, CT consisting of the new construction of a 52 unit residential building and common spaces. Some bid packages have been set aside for Small, Minority, and Women owned business. Contact Vince Parete for details. This project is subject to CHRO Set Aside requirements. All trade contractors are required to solicit from S/M/WBE’s and document efforts. Set Aside plans VALENTINA VIVIENDAS ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES will be required.MACRI Trade contractorDEbids are due to LaRosa no later than 3PM on Thursday, July 2, 2020. Bids can be emailed to Vincent Parete vparete@larosabg.com or faxed to 203-599-6210. Plans INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y deby la New Haven Housing andHOME specifi cations are available electronically contacting Vince Authority, by emailestá or phone 203-235-1770. aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo LaRosa Building Group is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer. Small, Minority, ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos Women, Disabled, and Section 3 Businesses are strongly encouraged to bid. máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 .

NOTICIA

360Management Management Group Company 360 Company esta actualmente aceptando is currently acceptingaplicaciones applicationspara for la lista de espera de Waverly Townhouses, Fulton Park and Waverly Townhouses, Fulton Park and Stanley Justice Stanley Justice Located in revitalized neighborhoods, our newly renovated townhouses Ubicadas en vecindarios revitalizados, nuestras casas adosadas recientemente feature two, three and four bedrooms, all with convenient access to renovadas cuentan con dos, tres y cuatro habitaciones, todas con acceso transportation, schools and amenities. features include conveniente al great transporte, excelentes escuelas y Community comodidades. Las características 24-hour emergency maintenance, resident activities and de la comunidad incluyen mantenimiento de emergencia las 24access horas, to actividades para residentes accesofor a parques familias(Section que playgrounds. Families who yqualify Housinginfantiles. ChoiceLas Voucher 8) califican para asistencia dethan Vales 30% de Elección Viviendaannual (Sección 8) pagarán assistance will la pay no more of theirde adjusted income for no más del 30% de sus ingresos anuales ajustados por el alquiler. rent.

REQUEST FOR BIDS - NEW BID DUE DATE AND PROCEDURES Air Rights Garage Repairs

New Haven, Connecticut New Haven Parking Authority Project #20-002

REQUIREMENTS:

REQUIREMENTS: Los ingresos deben estar entre 0% -60% del ingreso medio Earnings del área.must be between 0%-60% of the Area Medium ConsulteIncome la tabla a continuación para conocer los ingresos Invitation torequisitos Bid: específicos y los del below hogar. Las se realizarán mediante un (AMI). Please see the table for selecciones specific income and household nd sistema de 2lotería. Notice requirements. Selections will be made via a lottery system.

NEW HAVEN

Bids due July 9, 2020 at 3:00 P.M. 242-258 Ave (Note: This is a new bid due date,Fairmont with a new bid opening procedure.)

2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA

Bid Documents will be available beginning June 18, 2020 at no cost by downloading from the BuildingAll new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 Connnected FTP system website. Contact Maryann Bigda of Turner Construction Company at 203-712highways, near bus stop & shopping center 6070 for BuildingConnnected FTP system access information. Note: there are new bid procedures using Pet under 40lb Interested partiesbids, contact @ 860-985-8258 the BuildingConnectedallowed. FTP system to submit andMaria a Zoom Link for the opening of the bids; see full Invitation for Bids - Revised per Addendum #2, which is available on the BuildingConnnected FTP system, for details.

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE #

# People 2 3 Personas 2 CT 3 inOld Saybrook, en el (4 Buildings, 17 Units) Househol hogar Tax Exempt &dNot Prevailing Wage Rate Project Mínimo

Minimum

$20,52

$20,52 5

$23,10

$23,10 0

4

4

5

5

6

6

7

$25,65

$27,72 $27,72 5

$29,77 $29,77 5

$31,82 $31,82 5

$25,65 0

7

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Cast- 5 5 0 0 5 5 Maximo $49,26 $55,44 $61,56 $66,54 $71,46 $76,38 in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, repairs. 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maximum $49,26 $55,44 $61,56 $66,54 $71,46 $76,38 Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, 0Appliances, Residential Casework, 0 0 0 0 0 Bidders must submit with their Bid on forms provided a list of their Intended Subcontractors, including the Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. St. New Haven, CT use of Minority Business Enterprises and Women Owned Business Enterprises as subcontractors for a goal en línea en https://ecc.myhousing.com This contract is subject to state set-aside and Solicite contract compliance requirements. of at least 25% of the total value of the Bidder’s subcontracts. CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates to the Church’s Ministry needs.repairs, The cost iswaterproofi $125. Classesng, startand Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:30Thein response work mainly includes concrete plumbing/drainage system 3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES Invitation for Bid

A pre-bid conference will be held the HousingElevator Authority Office 28 Smith Robert T.at Wolfe Repair Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

$33,87 $33,87 5

5

$81,30 0 $81,30

0

Para recibir available una solicitud porbelow: correo, por favor llame 475-355-7289 o envíe una Project documents via ftp link solicitud por escrito a Attention: Waitlist Coordinator, Elm City Communities, PO Box http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage To1912, receive an application New Haven, CT 06509 by mail, please call 475-355-7289 or send a

written request to Attention: Waitlist Coordinator, Elm City Communities, PO

1912, New Haven, CT 06509 Fax or Email Questions Box & Bids Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com Lasto: solicitudes se pueden presenta • EnS/W/MBE HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, & Section Certified Businesses persona en 3360 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511 (a través un CT buzón Haynes Construction Progress Ave, de Seymour, 06483 ubicado en la puerta principal); o Submit Company, paper32applications al PO Box Haven, CT 06509 • • EMPLOYER AA/EEO InEnviada personpor at correo 360 Orange St, 1912, New New Haven, CT 06511 (via the drop box located at the front door); or

The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking Bids for Robert T. Wolfe Elevator Repair. A complete copy of the requirements may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority OfCollaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Si usted necesita acomodación razonable para completar su aplicación llame al • Mail to PO Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509 203-498-8800 ext. 1507

Las solicitudes estarán disponibles el 6/08/2020

fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579. Monday, June 15, 2020 at 3:00PM

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any

8

o descargue una aplicación en: Apply online at https://ecc.myhousing.com http://www.cthcvp.org/ or download an application at: Bid Extended, Due Date: Augusthttp://www.elmcitycommunities.org 5, 2016 http://www.cthcvp.org/ Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 http://www.elmcitycommunities.org

New Haven Parking Authority is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

8

17

If you need a reasonable accommodation complete Las solicitudes deben presentarse to antes del 7/3/2020the application: Call 203-498-8800 ext. 1507


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

THE GLENDOWER GROUP

Construction Equipment Mechanic preferably experienced in Reclaiming and Road Milling Equipment. We offer factory Invitation for Bids training on equipment we operate. Location: Bloomfield CT Charles T. McQueeney Towers Commercial Floor We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PREAPPLICATIONS AVAILABLE Renovations Contact: Tom Dunay

NOTICE

Phone: 243-2300 The Glendower HOME INC, on behalf of860Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority,Group is currently seeking Bids for commerEmail: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com cial at floor at Charles T. McQueeney Towesrs. A is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments this renovations develWomen Minority Applicants are New encouraged to apply income complete copyapof the requirement may be obtained from Glenopment & located at 108 Frank Street, Haven. Maximum limitations dower’s Vendor rmative Action/ Opportunity Employer ply.Affi Pre-applications willEqual be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have June re8, 2020 at 3:00PM. been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be Monday, mailied upon quest by calling HOME Reclaiming, INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preGarrity Asphalt Inc seeks: applications must be to HOMEwith INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Reclaimer Operators andreturned Milling Operators current licensing Haven, CTbe06510. andFloor, cleanNew driving record, willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY. We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

NOTICIA

Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300

Willard DiLoreto Parking Garage – CCSU – New Britain, CT

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES O&G Industries is looking for DAS-certified minorities to bid Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply the above-referenced project as a subcontractor or supplier of Affi rmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está

material. Project will be bid to the State of Connecticut DAS aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorioConstruction en este desarrollo Services on June 24, 2020. Set Aside Requireubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones ingresos ments:de25% SBE Subcontractors &/or Suppliers; 6.25% MBE máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25&/or Suppliers. Please e-mail Mark Carroll Subcontractors Tractor Trailer Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction Equipjulio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) markcarroll@ogind.com for more information and to gain ment. Must have a CDL License, clean driving record, capable of en las oficinas HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas correotoa the petición plans. operating heavydeequipment; be willing to travel throughout the poraccess llamando&a NY. HOME 203-562-4663 horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse Northeast We INC offeralexcellent hourlydurante rate &esas excellent benefits is an Affi. rmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer seeking all a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven ,O&G CT 06510

Union Company seeks:

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

HELP WANTED: 242-258 Fairmont Ave NEW HAVEN

subcontractors/suppliers/vendors - MBE/WBE/SBE/DBE/Veterans/Disabled.

STAIN/PAINT CREW:

THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF MIDDLETOWN Request for Qualifications from Architects/Engineers to Assist the Housing Authority in Preparation of Plans, Specifications & Contract Documents for Window and Entry Door Replacement at Maplewood Terrace and Entry Door Replacement at Traverse Square

The Housing Authority of the City of Middletown extends an invitation to architects/engineers to submit a statement of their qualifications to the Authority. The architect's/engineer’s qualifications should indicate the ability to perform work required in a timely and sufficient manner. The architect/engineer must be licensed to perform services in the State of Connecticut. The services being required by the Housing Authority will include but shall not be limited to preliminary studies, schematic design, preparation and design of construction documents, work write-ups, cost estimates, evaluation of construction bids, inspection of materials and workmanship during construction, and post completion documents for the window and door improvements projects scheduled to be completed at Traverse Square (60 residential units, entry doors only) and Maplewood Terrace (47 Residential units, doors and windows). The project will include but is not limited to: apartment window and door replacement, and exterior/interior window and door trim. The entire procurement procedure and contract award will be subject to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and any and all applicable Federal/State Laws and Regulations. The architect/ engineer selected shall comply with: a) the Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Requirements adopted by the Authority in compliance with said order, and b) Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 and the regulations issued thereunder. Profiles of the firm's principals, staff and facilities must be submitted along with a list of completed projects, especially projects completed with H.U.D. funds. The architect/engineer should specify any work performed under the Comprehensive Grant Program and/or the Comprehensive Improvements Assistance Program. A certified statement that the architect/engineer is not debarred, suspended or otherwise prohibited from professional practice by any Federal, State or local agency must also be submitted. In addition, the following insurance will be required: 1. Professional Liability including Errors and Omissions, 2. Comprehensive General Liability, 3. Automobile Liability, 4. Valuable Papers Destruction policy, 5. Workers’ Compensation and Employer Liability policy. The Architect/Engineer should have previous experience in providing professional services to public housing authorities and must display evidence of knowledge of H.U.D. regulations. Completed current federal GSA Form 330 must be submitted.

Large CT fence contractor seeking experienced painters. Must Evaluation Criteria: Invitation to Bid: have at least 5 years’ experience staining and/or painting woodnd 1. Firm’s qualifications - history and resource capability to perform required services in a timely man2 Notice ner (20 Points). and cellular products. Work available 10-12 months per year. 2. Evaluation of staff personnel (20 Points). 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA All necessary equipment provided. Medical, holiday, sick Large CT guardrail company looking for Laborer/ 3. H.U.D. experience, including the Comprehensive Grant Program and/or the Capital Fund Program drug new valid apartments, new appliances, newand carpet, I-91vacation & I-95 pay provided. Must pass a physical andOld DriverAllwith CT CDL Class A license ableclose to toand (25 Points). Saybrook, CT a 4. Other experience (20 Points). highways, busto stop & shopping center test, have a valid CT driver’s license and be able to obtain get a medical card. Must near be able pass a drug test (4 Buildings, 17 Units) 5. Overall response to RFQ (15 Points). DOT medical card. Rates from $18.00 - $22.00 per hour plus and physical. Compensation based on contact experience. Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties Maria @ 860-985-8258 Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project benefits. OSHA 10 training required. Please email resume to Email resume to dmastracchio@atlasoutdoor.com All interested firms shall submit proposals to: gforshee@atlasoutdoor.com AA/EOE/M-F

AA/EOE M-F

CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:303:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster

NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR BID HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY St. New Haven, CT Plumbing Services IFB No. B20001

SEYMOUR HOUSING SCOPE: AUTHORITY

The Housing Authority of theby City Danbury and its affiliates hereby issue InvitaSealed bids are invited theofHousing Authority of the Town of this Seymour tion for until 3:00Bidpmfrom on professional, Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, qualified, licensed plumbing companies.

Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26RETURN: Smith Street Seymour. Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B20001 Plumbing Services

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday,OPENING July 20, 2016. SUBMITTAL DEADLINE/BID

July 9, 2020 at 10:00am (EST)

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority OfCONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT: fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

Ms. Devin Marra, Director of Procurement,Telephone: 203-744-2500 x141 E-Mail: dmarra@hacdct.org The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to [Minority- and/or women-owned businesses are encouraged to respond]

reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any informalities in the bidding, if such actions are in the best interest of the Housing Authority.

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Window & Entry Door Replacement Qualifications at

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, CastMaplewood Terrace & Traverse Square Middletown Housing Authority in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Centrally Located Construction Company 40 Broad Street Middletown, CT 06457 Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, in Connecticut has positions available Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. by June 26, 2020 on or before 4:00 PM for experienced project managers, laborFurther information may be requirements. obtained by calling the Housing Authority at (860) 346-8671 ext. 112 This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance ers and truck drivers. This company is an Affirmative Action /

Bid Extended, Equal Opportunity Employer M/F. Females andDue

ROTHA Contracting Company Date: August 5, 2016

Minorities are encouraged to apply.Start: August 15, 2016 Anticipated ROTHA Contracting Company, Inc. is a Union contractor that has various job openings Please fax resume to ATTN: Mike to available Project documents via ftp link below: throughout the year for Bricklayers, Carpenters, Laborers, and Operating Engineers. We

have contracts with the following Unions: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage 860-669-7004.

· United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, New England Regional CounConstuction for aLang La- @ 203-881-8372 Fax or EmailLaborer QuestionsLooking & Bids to: Dawn dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com of Carpenters 24,Businesses 43 and 210 HCC encourages in the Crane/Pile participation ofDrivall Veteran,cilS/W/MBE & SectionLocals 3 Certified borer with experience Construction Company, ing operations. WeHaynes will consider those with 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers AFL-CIO Local 1 no prior experience. Required skills/qualiAA/EEO EMPLOYER fications include: OTC 105 OSHA10 hour · Connecticut Laborers’ District Council of Laborers’ International Union of North AmerCertification, Valid Drivers License, Must ica, AFL-CIO be able to lift over 50 pounds, Minimum · International Union of Operating Engineers Local 478 and its Branches AFL-CIO age of 18, Must Provide personal transportation to and from the jobsite. Please contact your Union Local to apply for open positions. ROTHA Contracting ComPlease contact: Eric Bombaci Bombaci Construction 8605754519 Bombaciconst@aol.com

18

pany, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and welcome minorities, woman, and trainees in our workplace.


THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

SOCIAL DISTANCING As a public facility, this establishment is actively encouraging Social Distancing 6 Feet

To support public health, please maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet from others during your visit. For more information and the latest updates about COVID-19 in Connecticut, please visit: Portal.CT.Gov/Coronavirus If you have any questions regarding the Novel Coronavirus, you can call: 833-ASK-YNHH (833-275-9644) 19


THE INNER-CITY NEWS -

June 24, 2020 - June 30, 2020

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Offer requires enrollment in both automatic payments and paperless billing through Xfinity My Account. Offer ends 7/21/20. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to the Choice Double Play with Performance 100 Mbps Internet service. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $14.95/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after promo. After promo, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular rates apply to Choice Double Play. Comcast’s service charge for Choice Double Play is $89.99/mo. (subj. to change). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Xfinity xFi is available to Xfinity Internet customers with a compatible Xfinity Gateway. Ability to pause limited to home WiFi network. Does not apply to Xfinity WiFi hotspots. Call for restrictions and complete details. NPA231154 NED AA CDP V5

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