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What Men’s Health Month Means For African Americans

INNER-CITY INNER-CITY

$5M Grant Targets Maternal, Infant Support

by JABEZ CHOI

The local chapter of a federally funded program that fights to keep moms and infants in good health has secured a fiveyear, $5 million award to subsidize doula care, increase outreach to at-risk communities, and sustain education programs for new and expecting parents.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro announced that federal funding boost during a Monday morning press conference at the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven at 70 Audubon St.

Alongside Community Foundation

President and CEO William Ginsberg, Blumenthal and DeLauro said those funds are being sent to the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, which hosts New Haven’s Healthy Start program. This aid comes from the Department of Health and Human Services and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Founded in 1998, New Haven Healthy Start last received funding on a similar five-year cycle from HRSA in 2019. Since its inception, New Haven Healthy Start has received $28.3 million of funding.

“We know investments work,” Blumenthal said. “We have the facts and the evidence. At the same time infant mortality is dropping, maternal deaths are still climbing.”

DeLauro emphasized the fight in Congress to secure the funding for Healthy Start. According to DeLauro, “pro-life Republicans” had tried to cut the funding from Healthy Start from its 2024 – 2025 budget, mistaking the program with another early maternal healthcare service, Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program.

“Our problem is lack of revenue. We have 55 of the major corporations in this country [that] will pay zero in taxes,” DeLauro said. “By God, we are going to ensure that [Healthy Start] is funded.”

According to Healthy Start’s website, New Haven’s infant mortality rate was 20 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1987. The current infant mortality rate is 10.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, and 14.4 per 1,000 live births for African American and Latina moms. Despite falling infant mortality rates, officials stated at Monday’s press conference that the city’s maternal mortality rate is on the rise. In Connecticut, pregnancy-associated deaths have increased from 6 in 2015 to 18 in 2020, as recorded by the Department of Public Health.

“The death of a newborn child is an unthinkable tragedy,” DeLauro said. “The cumulative sense of loss that our community experienced is hard to imagine.”

New Haven Healthy Start is one of two Healthy Start chapters in the nation that is run out of a community foundation. Natasha Ray, director of New Haven Healthy Start and member of the national Healthy Start Association, emphasized that this aspect of New Haven Healthy Start allows for the program’s services to stay close and accessible to the community.

“In our experience, being at a community foundation allows for more innovation that’s in alignment with the actual grant,” Ray said. “There is not a lot of red tape, hoops, bureaucracy.”

New Haven Healthy Start has used the funding to expand its services over the years. In its last grant cycle, Healthy Start emphasized academic collaboration, publishing six academic articles and continuing its partnership with Yale Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholars Program,

which has partnered on research projects to address maternal health issues in New Haven. Additionally, alongside continuing to provide services to new and expectant mothers, Healthy Start has expanded its services to include consortium classes and education programs for new fathers. On Monday, one father, Robert Farrow, talked about the impact Healthy Start’s services have had on his life.

“Not many people from where I’m from have the healthiest start,” Farrow said. “They have an okay start, They have a mediocre start. Unfortunately, that start doesn’t lead them to where they need as fathers.”

Farrow cited a Healthy Start program called 24/7 Dad, run by Rodney Moore, as a pivotal resource that helped him become a better father.

In the eight-week-long program, Farrow learned not only how to become a better father to his children, but also how to apply for a credit card and home loans. Farrow, a 28-year-old father of three children, heard about Healthy Start after the doctor taking care of his wife referred him to it. Moore, New Haven Healthy Start Fatherhood Coordinator, tried to get him to join the program, but Farrow refused. It wasn’t until his mother demanded him to go that he decided to join.

“My mother looked at me and said ‘you’d better do it,’” Farrow said. “I got to listen to my mom.” While Farrow spoke, his four-year-old daughter Harmony stood by his side. The two like to sing Gospel music together, and Farrow noted that Harmony is a fiercely protective older sister. But right now, as she tugged at his leg, he said what she really wanted to do was go play at the park.

Alders Let Rush-Kittle Live In Rocky Hill

by JABEZ CHOI

The city’s chief administrative officer can now live with her family in a Hartford suburb while continuing to oversee New Haven’s police and fire departments thanks to a residency-requirement exemption granted by the Board of Alders.

Local legislators took that unanimous vote Monday night during the latest regular full Board of Alders meeting in the Aldermanic Chamber on the second floor of City Hall.

They voted in support of an order granting an exception to the city charter requirement that the city’s chief administrative officer, Regina Rush-Kittle, live in New Haven. The CAO oversees departments like police, fire, parks,

and 911.

The vote follows the latest version of a longstanding citywide debate over whether or not top City Hall officials should have to live in the city they serve.

Last year, Mayor Justin Elicker’s administration unsuccessfully pushed to remove the residency requirement from the city charter for certain top officials. In March, a majority of the Board of Alders voted in favor of an ordinance allowing city coordinators who have served in their role for at least one year to apply to live within 50 miles outside of New Haven. The coordinator would also have to express “extraordinary hardship” in living in New Haven. While four Alders dissented against the ordinance in March, the vote Monday night for RushKittle’s exception was unanimous.

“We voted to give this item a favorable recommendation to the board as RushKittle meets the requirements to receive this exception to residency,” Board of Alders Majority Leader Richard Furlow said.

After Monday’s vote, Rush-Kittle noted that she raised her family in Rocky Hill for “many, many years.” They still live there, and she wants to move back in with them. Due to the charter’s residency requirement, she had established a residence in New Haven and commuted back and forth.

“I’ll continue to do what I’ve been doing in the past. I work long hours. I work weekends when needed,” RushKittle said. “Is it going to change the way I work? No. My work ethic will be the same.”

JABEZ CHOI PHOTO

Robert Farrow and daughter Harmony (center) with U.S. Sen. Blumenthal and Rep. DeLauro.

DeLauro, Blumenthal, and Healthy Start's Natasha Ray.

LAURA GLESBY PHOTO

CAO Rush-Kittle: "Work ethic will be the same.”

The new haven independent

The new haven independent

At Unused Plot, Beer Garden Grows

by DEREEN SHIRNEKHI

Outdoor salsa nights, craft beers, and live music are coming to a long-empty lot in downtown New Haven, thanks to the efforts of a local innovator who is hoping to showcase Black and Brown brewers.

The lot in question, next to the 360 State St. residential tower at the corner of Orange and Chapel, has now been rechristened CITA Park, an outdoor beer garden and event space.

Officials cut a ribbon Thursday to mark the opening of the park after 14 years of failed efforts to develop the site, and on the heels of a successful trial run at the New Haven Night Market.

The local innovator behind the effort is Jamal Robinson, the founder and president of Change in the Air Foundation (CITA). Robinson is also the director of sales and marketing at New England Brewing Co.

CITA, a nonprofit dedicated to diversifying the craft beer industry, has two initiatives. The first is the CT Brewers Guild African American Brewing Scholarship at Sacred Heart University.

The second is provide spaces to promote diverse brewers. That’s where CITA park comes in, as it showcases Black and Brown brewers like Rhythm Brewing and scholarship recipient Best Friends Lunch, as well as Gorilla Lemonade for use in cocktails. While the drinks are not exclusively made by Black and Brown business owners, they will “always be highlighted.”

Thursday’s ribbon-cutting and press conference took place ahead of the space’s June 1 opening. CITA Park will remain open on weekends until Oct. 31.

The hours of operation will be Thursday and Friday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“It takes a village,” Robinson said He thanked the city as well as the members of his team, who joined him in wearing CITA shirts and big smiles. “All the work you see here has been done by us, hands on. We’re working on a tight nonprofit budget, so we had to do everything our-

selves, including the reclaimed AstroTurf that you see before you.” He laughed, and later he pointed out a shipping container turned walk-in cooler.

“The whole concept of it being a ‘park,’ ” he said of space, “is that this is a collaboration with a lot of other Black and Brown leaders who are already doing amazing things that need space and need platform and opportunity.”

“If you are Black and Brown in New Haven, there’s not a lot of space, especially publicly, that feels like it’s built around our culture and for us,” Robinson said. “And when you come here, you’ll feel that.”

New Haven Director of Cultural Affairs Adriane Jefferson identified Robinson as an “unapologetic visionary” and identified the moment as “historic.”

“This is a move to be able to have for us,

by us spaces,” Jefferson said. She cited the city’s cultural equity plan, which emphasized “the importance of having spaces that represent the community … in a way that it is not policed, in a way where it is not restrictive, and in a way where people actually feel like they belong.” CITA Park was exactly the sort of thing that the city wanted to come to fruition.

Eugene Morton, Jr. is the general manager of the space and spearheading the public programming. (The space will also be available for private events.) Planned events include art exhibits, joint programming with other organizations, salsa nights, and food festivals. There will always be two food vendors, who will span a “variety of diasporas.”

There will also be live music, and Morton, who is an artist and in a few bands himself, will be running sound. He’s using his local industry connections and cashing out unpaid favors, and as a result, CITA Park’s programming is already almost entirely booked through October. On the horizon is a sit-down Juneteenth dinner where guests will be wearing their “Sunday best.”

The city is supporting the project with a $20,000 competitive grant through the Department of Arts and Culture and Tourism, as well as an additional $15,000, Mayor Justin Elicker said at Tuesday’s press conference. He celebrated the transformation of an “eyesore” into a community space.

“Last week it was pizza, Tuesday it was hamburgers, today it’s beer,” Elicker said to cheers and laughter. “Let me be clear, New Haven is hoppy with excitement, and brewing with new energy.”

The Once and Future King: Josh Gibson is Number One After Negro League Stats Join MLB

By Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire Contributor

Just a few months before Jackie Robinson would make history and break the color barrier preventing Black players from competing in Major League Baseball, Josh Gibson passed away at 35 years old. In the early 1940s he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and died on January 20, 1947 of a stroke.

But Josh Gibson lives in his statistical achievements which place him at the top of all baseball players of all time. The MLB announced on May 29, that it has added the statistics of over 2,300 Negro Leagues players from 1920 to 1948. The update in records now means that Josh Gibson is now Major League Baseball’s all-time career leader in batting average at .372. Gibson overtakes Ty Cobb who is at .367. Gibson also surpasses baseball legend Babe Ruth in career slugging percentage.

Gibson’s legendary career in the Negro Leagues was showcased during the many years he played for Pittsburgh Crawfords and the Homestead Grays. He was commonly referred to as the “Black Babe Ruth,” and hit nearly 800 home runs during his career. Gibson, who was a catcher, played in numerous East-West All-Star Games and helped lead his teams to multiple league championships.

Gibson’s legacy has been recognized and celebrated in the years following his untimely death. In 1972, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. This induction helped to solidify his place in baseball history and brought renewed attention to the contributions of Negro Leagues players. Gibson’s story continues to inspire and his career is a reminder of the racial barriers in professional sports.

Pitcher Satchel Paige, whom many consider one of the best pitchers to play the game, is also a big winner on the updated stat sheet. In 1948, at the age of 42, Paige

broke into MLB with the Cleveland Indians, becoming the oldest rookie in major league history. Paige’s career in the Negro Leagues spanned over two decades. He played for the Birmingham Black Barons, the Pittsburgh Crawfords, and the Kansas City Monarchs. Paiges’ dominance on the mound was legendary and he often pitched multiple games in a single day. The incorporation of the stats of Negro Leagues players has been pushed for by many Negro Leagues historians for years. Now that the moment has arrived, the full history of professional baseball moves a bit closer to being valid.

Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent investigative journalist and the publisher of Black Virginia News. She is a political analyst who appears regularly on #RolandMartinUnfiltered and speaks on Crisis Comms on YouTube @LaurenVictoriaBurke. She can be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on twitter at @LVBurke

DEREEN SHIRNEKHI PHOTOS

Jamal Robinson (center) joined by wife Jess Robinson and team (left) and economic development official Carlos Eyzaguirre, Mayor Justin Elicker, cultural affairs chief Adriane Jefferson, and Beachworld Senior VP Dan DeStefano (right).

1930-31 Homestead Grays. Authorities on the Negro Leagues have made them the consensus pick as the best team ever. Standing: Cumberland Posey*, Bill Evans, Jap Washington, Red Reed, Smokey Joe Williams*, Josh Gibson*, George “Tubby” Scales, Oscar Charleston*, Charlie Walker, Jr. Kneeling: Chippy Britt, Lefty Williams, Jud Wilson*, Vic Harris, Ted “Double Duty” Radcliffe, Ambrose Reed, Ted Page. (*Hall of Fame)

The new haven independent

Sisters’ Journey June Survivor of the Month Dee Manuel Cloud

I was diagnosed with Stage II Ductal Carcinoma in 2005 at age 35. After enduring a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, the cancer returned at age 38 in 2008. That time I had a unilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Now 16 years in remission, when I’m asked about my breast cancer journey, diagnosis and treatment aren’t the parts of my cancer story that I focus on. Instead, I focus on the triumphs that happened once I was cancer-free because I believe that part of my story is the most powerful and inspirational.

After enduring cancer twice, I discovered the courage to embrace and overcome my fears, and I created a life that is even better than before breast cancer. Breast cancer gave me the courage to end an unhappy marriage and embrace my true identity. I gained the courage to start businesses and leave Corporate America.

I found the courage to authentically and unapologetically be myself and move past the fears of failure. So, while going through breast cancer twice was traumat-

ic, the gifts left by cancer’s presence are what I focus on most.

However, despite coming to the other side of breast cancer triumphantly, there’s one thing I would change. I didn’t allow family and friends to support me because I didn’t want them to worry. I thought I needed to present myself as strong and capable of handling anything.

I was afraid to be vulnerable and ask for support, so I went to many treatment appointments alone.

In hindsight, I wouldn’t recommend this approach to any woman going through a cancer diagnosis and treatment. I would advise them to definitely take a family member or friend to appointments for emotional support and to take notes to ensure that you don’t miss anything your care team is saying.

My advice would be that it takes courage to be vulnerable and allow others to be there to support you. When we know better, we do better.

I now serve as a Breast Cancer Recov-

ery Strategist, international speaker, and the owner and CEO of Intentional Living Academy. I also authored a bestselling book entitled “Beauty in the Breakdown.”

As a Breast Cancer Recovery Strategist, I help survivors overcome the fear, trauma, and suffering of breast cancer to create a life of peace, joy, and fulfillment so they can thrive and rebuild their lives even better than before. Understanding breast cancer survivors' unique life experiences and goals enable me to help create an action plan that supports survivors in moving beyond breast cancer.

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Community Presses Mandy At Meet-Up

by LISA REISMAN

Questions from Newhallville neighbors flew fast and furious at a community meeting with a representative from Mandy Management on Thursday evening: Why is an old eviction still coming up when I’m applying for an apartment? How do I overcome a bad credit score? And what is the turnaround time for addressing repairs and upkeep?

The meeting at Winchester Works at 115 Munson St. was hosted by Dixwell/ Newhallville/Prospect Hill Alder Troy Streater and Ward 21 Democratic CoChair Ray Jackson. It included staff from the Livable City Initiative (LCI), about 15 Newhallville-area neighbors, and Mandy Management representative Zalmy Weiss. Mandy is one of Newhallville’s largest landlords.

Jackson who also works for LCI lauded the local megalandlord for “the great deal of improvement it’s been showing.” Part and parcel of that was its willingness “to give our community the opportunity to express their concerns,” he said. “We want to make this relationship nice, so he’ll keep coming back here.” Weiss requested that he not be named or photographed as part of his participation in this public meeting, but pledged to listen. (The Independent confirmed that Weiss was indeed the Mandy employee who showed up to sit down face-toface and talk with neighbors at the public meeting.)

“If I can answer your questions, I will, and if I can’t answer them now, I’ll bring it back to the company and get them an-

swered,” he told the group.

One person present asked about the cost of online applications: Why is it that residents have to pay $40 each time they apply?

“There is only one place to apply for an apartment with Mandy Management,”

Weiss answered. “If another website is asking you to pay, don’t pay that fee.”

Weiss told the group that evictions and poor credit scores are assessed on a “case by case” basis when the landlord decides whether to rent to people.

“It’s a multi-faceted approval and denial process” that’s “not ever based on just one item,” he said.

Regarding maintenance turnaround time, he acknowledged the frustration: “It’s not perfect right now, but I want to assure you that there are many long-term plans we’re working on.”

Jeanette Sykes, director of Newhallville Community Service Development Corporation, asked Weiss how the company plans to improve its relationship to the community. “When you see that name,

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there’s always a negative that goes with it,” she said about Mandy.

“When you come back, and we appreciate you being here, it would be nice to have a community relations person because we’d like to hear about accountability,” she said. “And also someone who can talk about the maintenance and turnaround time and how we can work together to make things better.” (Click here to read a recent article about Mandy’s stepped-up maintenance work under a next generation of company leadership.)

Newhallville Alder Brittiany MaberyNiblack put it more bluntly. “The truth of the matter is that Mandy owns everything,” she said. “There are rent increases, and you’re not keeping up with the upkeep of the apartments. That’s what happening.”

She asked for transparency. “We want to build community relations, so we’re going to hold you accountable,” she said. “You rent in our neighborhood. We live in your neighborhood, our families, our mothers, our sisters, our brothers live in your properties, so show us your face. Show us how we can become better partners in this community because that’s what it’s going to take and that’s when we’re going to get things done.” Sykes had the final word.

“We appreciate you coming because it says you are taking a step in the right direction, but this is just the beginning,” she said. “This is how dialogues happen, but it’ll only work if you keep coming, and we keep talking, and not just in this ward.”

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LISA REISMAN PHOTO

Newhallville's Jeanette Sykes: "You are taking a step in the right direction.”

The new haven independent

West Hills Kicks Off Summer In Song, Style

Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper newhaven.arts

Onstage, Erica Wilkins was taking it to church. She stepped up to the mic, four singers swaying behind her. Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance! she sang, and the lyrics rose skyward. In the grass, Shelley Goode wheeled her bike over past the speakers, and let the sound soak into her skin. Vendors, packing up their tents, paused to feel the music. Everyone, it seemed, was home.

Family, friends and fellowship came to the annual West Hills/West Rock Neighborhood Festival Saturday afternoon, as music, dance, and dozens of lifelong neighborhood boosters graced the park and playground outside The Shack and former West Rock STREAM Academy. An initiative of the International Festival of Arts & Ideas and a West Hills/West Rock planning committee, this year’s event focused on “Coming Back Home,” from soul-lifting, buoyant dance to music that got the whole crowd on its feet.

Over the course of the day, a few hundred people attended. This year, the festival also featured a midday neighborhood parade, which doubled as a chance to fête West Hills Alder Honda Smith on her birthday. Smith, who has lived in the neighborhood since 1997, has left a record of service in her wake that neighbors were excited to celebrate.

“These are my stomping grounds!” said Andrea Daniels-Singleton, a lifelong West Hills resident and head of A2A Productions, who helped plan the festival.

“What I hoped for was people coming together, celebrating one another. It’s really becoming the community that I remember.”

“Really, Ms. Andrea is the visionary,” added Sha McAllister, associate director of education and community impact at the Festival of Arts & Ideas. “She really wanted to create a cookout feel, and show that there’s a culture here. There’s a neighborhood here. It’s a blessing to be part of it … to see people come out and show where they from.”

Throughout the park, that sense of celebration was palpable, flitting through the warm afternoon as attendees gathered across the grass and made their way to

a vendor stations and tents for New Haven social service agencies. Close to the stage, dozens danced, some only with their hips, shoulders, and vigorously bobbing heads, and others hand-in-hand with children and family members in the grass. Ringing the park, booths that ranged from hand massages and handmade jewelry to citywide social service organizations beckoned. At one, Holistic Remedies’ Eboni Dinkins offered five dollar hand massages, each delivered with a side of conversation. At another, city staffers collected feedback on New Haven’s 2034 visioning process, the next meeting for which is coming up on June 4.

For Jesse Austin, who performs as

“God’s Poet,” it was exactly what he hoped for when he moved to West Hills. Born and raised in Bridgeport’s Father Panik Village, Austin came to New Haven several months ago through the VA Hospital in West Haven. After a wet winter and spring, the festival was a chance to be in community with several of his neighbors. He called Saturday, during which he performed poetry, a way to give back to the community.

“I love the camaraderie“ he said as the Golden Stars proclaimed “there’s a blessing in this house!“ onstage, and a cheer went up from attendees sitting nearby. “There’s music, food, T-shirt design — all the different arts make for one great

chowder."

As she played with her niece Nylah on a sun-soaked patch of grass nearby, vocalist Shahell Jefferson agreed. While Jefferson technically grew up in Beaver Hills, her cousins and grandmother lived on South Genese and Valley Streets in West Hills. “So even though I didn’t grow up here, I grew up here,” she said. To her, Saturday felt like a family reunion.

“It’s wonderful! I love to see the neighborhood come together in peace,” she said. “It’s a good time.”

By mid-afternoon, it felt like a fullblown party. In front of the stage, dancers Kani Kee and Alec Tarver danced right into the festivities, arms and legs slicing through the summery air. Moving in time with one another, they sprang over the grass, landing in a crouch that soon took them airborne again. When Master KG’s “Jerusalema” came on after their set, the people that got up to dance felt like a natural encore.

Taking a moment to catch his breath after performing, Kee said he was excited to show up for West Hills, where dozens of young Black creatives might not often see a dancer who looks like them. Over a decade ago, it was dancing that helped him break out of his shell and learn how to communicate without any words at all. Now, he tries to pay that forward whenever he can.

“It’s [dancing] really unlike any other feeling I can explain,” he said. “I always make an appearance for the

Dems Say It’s ‘Reckless’ For GOP To Undermine Trump Verdict

by Hudson Kamphausen

HARTFORD, CT – Democratic leaders in the state Senate on Friday said that comments made by the General Assembly’s two top-ranking Republicans following former President Donald Trump’s conviction were “reckless” and only served to undermine the justice system.

Trump was convicted by a jury of his peers last week on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush-money payment that was intended to cover up his alleged affair with a porn star during a tight election campaign.

Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff said in a statement Friday morning that the outcome and proceedings of Trump’s trial – and the guilty verdict unanimously reached by a jury of 12 New Yorkers –were completely straightforward.

“Let’s be clear about what happened. Law enforcement professionals conducted this investigation. Career prosecutors brought the indictment,” they said. “A jury

of Donald Trump’s peers, selected with input from him and his lawyers, convicted the former President.”

House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora and Senate Minority Leader, as reported by CTNewsJunkie Friday, said they viewed the guilty verdict in the former president’s trial as a “weaponization” of the legal system for a political purpose.

“We cannot ignore the fact that the events that have transpired in New York City point to a weaponization of those very institutions to achieve a political end,” Candelora and Harding said. “These events have created a highly troubling scenario which will invariably end up on appeal and raise serious Constitutional challenges. The one thing we are sure of is that our Constitution will prevail.”

Democrats pushed back on those comments, calling them irresponsible and reckless. They vowed to always prioritize Connecticut residents as opposed to the “political interests of one man.”

“Yesterday’s statement by the highest ranking Republicans in the Connecticut

General Assembly was reckless and seeks to undermine confidence in our judicial system. We are troubled to see Republican legislative leaders side with election deniers and play into Trump’s dangerous accusation that the process is rigged,” Looney and Duff said, adding that it is “dangerous” to undermine the decision.

“No one is above the law and we were all better off when that was something both political parties believed in,” they said. Looney and Duff asserted that the unanimity of the conviction was an indication of how Trump is a “rightfully convicted” felon.

“A unanimous verdict on 34 felony counts means that the jury made 408 separate decisions to find Donald Trump guilty. There was not even one count where Trump had a single juror dissent in his favor,” they said. Trump is widely expected to appeal the decision, possibly before his sentencing in mid-July. Multiple news reports suggest that it is unlikely that the former president and reality TV star will face any time behind bars.

As House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, listens at left, Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding, R-Brookfield, right, speaks to reporters about Republican proposals to mitigate electricity costs in Connecticut on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

Credit: Hudson Kamphausen / CTNewsJunkie

Genealogy As Activism Uncovers Black History

by ALLAN APPEL

Members of a Woodbury, New Jersey family had not a clue that their direct ancestor was a soldier in the storied 29th Connecticut Colored Regiment in the Civil War. Or that he had written an important account of his life. Or that his remains lie beneath a paved-over, segregated burial ground, now a parking lot not a block from where they live.

Now, thanks to the genealogical activism of independent scholar John Mills and his Alex Breanne Corporation, they do. The Alex Breanne Corporation is a nonprofit dedicated to researching the lives not of the famous, but of ordinary enslaved African Americans. With that history-come-life in his hands, Mills tries to re-inject the lost past into the present through providing often full-scale genealogical portraits to families; subsidizing restoration of tombstones and other markers; campaigning for street name changes; and helping create murals, to name a few. Mills described his genealogical labors of love, which he likened to a form of activism, to a rapt audience at the Yale University Sterling Library lecture hall Wednesday afternoon.

He currently has 23 case histories of ordinary people in play — ordinary, yet often, when the facts are assembled, extraordinary tales of perseverance and courage. These case histories include several soldiers from the Civil War regiments raised in Connecticut following the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.

The program, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month, was sponsored by Yale’s Working Women’s Network, the

Yale African-American Affinity Group, and the Yale Veterans’ Network, and drew 20 people in person and more than 50 online.

In an hour-long talk by turns personal, passionate, and full of the larger histori-

Opinion: Our Paras Mattera

by ASHLEY STOCKTON

Our paras matter. Simply, our schools can not function without them. They are some of our most valuable employees, and yet their pay and working conditions telegraph just the opposite.

Currently our paras are hired at about $24,000 a year. Their hourly wage is about $16. I have two kids who are NHPS students — a rising senior and a rising freshman. For the jobs they perform, neighborhood dog walking, yard work, snow shoveling, they are paid no less than $20 an hour. Let that sink in.

At last Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting, Dr. Negron shared her goals for NHPS kindergarten as one part of her strategic plan. Her goals are admirable and ambitious. Meeting these goals will require individualized assessment, targeted interventions, consistent progress monitoring, and structured instruction that utilizes the science of reading mechanisms that are proven to help emergent readers meet development benchmarks.

Implementation of an instructional model that encompasses these facets requires small group instruction, daily. Facilitating this requires teachers and paraprofessionals working together to manage the classroom, meet the needs of the children, and deliver individualized learning plans. We can say that we are doing this, but in reality, without paras, one teacher cannot meet the needs of 26 young people as effectively as they could with a properly staffed classroom.

Our paras do more than anyone can imagine. I know this because I am a kindergarten teacher and have been a teacher in NHPS since 2006. I have observed paras year after year, taking one for the team, being good soldiers, call it what you may. In short, our paras roll up their sleeves, do whatever needs to be done, and show up the next day to do it all over again. They help children pour milk into their cereal, listen to fears and wipe tears, teach children how to grip a pencil, sit beside them while children read to them, and provide our strugglers with the support and compassion they

slaver in 1830s Texas and how the family ultimately migrated to California, where Mills grew up in San Diego.

“Every time I learned another piece of information, I literally felt my shoulders grow straighter, with pride,” he said.

Replicating that experience for others now often takes Mills not only to libraries and archives but to the remains of segregated cemeteries grown over or long gone and ignored for decades.

Just to be there, he said, to walk the area and sense the ancestors and their perseverance and courage is both inspiring and, he added, “spiritual.”

PRESENTATION SLIDE

“The more I learn of these stories” –he was speaking specifically of Isaac J. Hill and Alexander Newton, among the veterans he has researched from the 29th, 30th, and 31st Colored Regiments — “the greater my reverence. They volunteered, they were paid less, and on the battlefield, if wounded, they were treated worse, or ignored.”

Mills discovered in Hill’s memoir, for example, statements of personal hurt and indignation that just as the 1,400 troops of the regiments were returning to Connecticut from their service at Vicksburg and other battles, the state legislature voted not to allow African Americans the franchise.

cal context, Mills reported that every new detail of his own lineage, triggered by his sister’s interest in genealogy, was both eye-opening and personally empowering. Those details included, for example, how his last name derived from that of an en-

It would take Connecticut until 1870 to ratify the 15th Amendment and alter its own constitution that until then retained a “white men only” qualification for voting.

Mills also discovered early versions of the modern Black Power raised fist sym-

need in order to feel included.

When they are told to, paras leave their kindergarteners and provide coverage for absent teachers in eighth grade, fifth grade, phys ed, wherever they are needed. The work they do each day is gracious and beautiful and for that we should be thankful. Our thanks needs to come in the form

bol or the taking of a knee in collective protest in Hill’s description, for example, of a protest Hill’s unit mounted. It occurred in Annapolis, Maryland, on their way to deployment when the promised payment for enlistment for white troops had arrived, but not for the Black soldiers.

So, during a ceremony in Annapolis, Hill wrote, his unit “did not acknowledge the flag.”

A software engineer in his day job, Mills supports most of the activities of his organization out of his own pocket and from speaking fees.

Upcoming events include a ceremony for a restored burial plaque for Isaac Hill in New Jersey and a similar restoration of the burial stone of Mary Newton. She’s the mother of Alexander Newton, who also served in the 29th Connecticut Colored Regiment, and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

A free Black woman, she moved to New Haven from North Carolina in 1859 to raise money to free her husband Thaddeus and others. Mary pushed a wash cart washing the clothes of soldiers-in-training at Grape Vine Point, now Criscuolo Park in Fair Haven, near where a monument stands for where those soldiers trained and then shipped out.

Mary Newton, Mills reported, went on to become a distinguished homeopathic doctor in New Haven. Her life and that of her son Alexander, also a memoirist of his service in the colored regiments, will be celebrated, through the unveiling of her restored tombstone, on June 21, at 11:00 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery.

of fair wages and working conditions.

This is long past overdue I am heartbroken listening to our paras at the Board of Education meeting after meeting. In a nutshell, they repeat the same message, “We love our job. Please pay us a living wage.” In addition to their jobs, paras perform the following duties: substitute

teaching for all grades and content areas, covering long term leaves for teachers who are on administrative, family, or medical leaves, covering the front office of their schools, performing nursing responsibilities, supervising lunch waves, and countless other responsibilities. Often they are told with no notice and no choice. They perform these duties because someone must. Without our paras, our schools wouldn’t make it through a day. It’s about time we show them that they and their contributions are seen and valued.

Finally I want to share a few things I saw paras do this past week. I saw kindergarten paras substitute teach third grade, administer one on one math diagnostics during their lunch break, buy bubbles, pails and shovels for kindergarteners to use at recess, tuck prizes into backpacksa for children to find once they got home, bring in popsicles on a Friday afternoon because the children had cooperated so beautifully all week. I could keep writing, but there just isn’t enough space to list it all. These are our paras, New Haven. They matter.

ALLAN APPEL PHOTO

John Mills with Marinda Monfilston, Lakeisha Robinson, and Shawana Snell.

MAYA MCFADDEN FILE PHOTO Paras speaking up at a recent school board meeting.

The following opinion essay was submitted by Ashley Stockton, a New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) teacher and parent and city resident who currently teaches kindergarten at Truman School.

Freddy Fixer Dances Down Dixwell Avenue

The drums seemed to emanate from every direction, ringing Dixwell Avenue into being. In the center of the road, Ya’nae Whitebritt and Ja’mese Hunter placed their hands on their hips, looked to fellow members of Elite Drill Squad & Drum Corps, and began to step. As their blue tassels bounced through the air, hundreds of New Haveners cheered them on.

Rolling drums, synchronized and sequinclad dancers, Elm City jazz legends and dozens of marching units took over Dixwell Avenue Sunday afternoon, as the Elm City Freddy Fixer Parade returned for its 57th year in New Haven. As it traveled from Newhallville into Dixwell, it drew generations of Black New Haveners, for whom the parade has become an annual tradition.

It also marked a bittersweet goodbye: Elm City Freddy Fixer Parade Committee (ECFFPC) Board Members Diane Brown and Petisia Adger, who have helped steer the parade for the past decade, both announced their departure earlier this year. After trying to pass the baton more than once, both have said they do not plan to return.

“It feels good to be here,” said Brown Sunday, as volunteers buzzed from unit to unit in yellow and purple t-shirts. “I’m tired, but it feels good. It’s time for me to spend time with my family, with my son, with my grandchildren.”

In their final year, Brown and Adger brought together 80 marching units, including a tribute to jazz greats Hank Bolden, Jesse “Cheese” Hameen and James “Dinky” Johnson. They tapped fashion icon Donald Carter as artistic director, celebrating the parade in purple-and-gold style. With a panel of judges, they also reveled in a number of prizes (see all of them here), from best marching unit to the Elm City Freddy Fixer Spirit Award.

Well before the parade began Sunday, they were on site with a small army of volunteers, ready to check people in as the morning clouds gave way to sun, and the temperatures continued to climb. As hundreds of people lined up, decades of parade stories wove between them, a history of family and legacy embedded in each.

In a lot beside Visels Pharmacy, lifelong New Havener William Moore watched students run through an array of jujitsu moves, some punching out into the warm air as others bent at the knees and kicked outward. Born and raised in New Haven, Moore grew up with the Freddy, watching his dad Mustafa help build out the event’s infrastructure for several years.

“It has to be a family event, he said. In years past, that has meant he attends the parade with his parents, siblings, cousins. This year, he chose to march with his students from Dynamic U, a dojo on Whalley Avenue that teaches jujitsu and aikido. Just like the Freddy, he said, his mission is “to keep young people off the streets and motivated.”

“We get to represent our dojo!” chimed

in student Tamir Criuz, a sixth grader at Ridge Hill School who holds a green belt. “It’s really an honor.”

At a volunteer table nearby, Hafeeza Ture called it a full-circle moment. Growing up around the corner from Visels on Willis Street, “you prepared for months” before the Freddy arrived, so that everything would be in order. By middle school, she was part of a championship-winning New Haven double dutch league that marched in the parade. While the league fizzled ended, the Freddy stayed with her. “I think it’s important to give energy to the things that have historic meaning,” she said. “Look at all the young people that are part of it.”

That sense of obligation—and of hope— echoed over Dixwell Avenue as marching units got into position, some fanning themselves or loosening their layers of wool, lycra, spandex and polyester in the rising heat. Watching the James Hillhouse High School band warm up, jazz legend James “Dinky” Johnson perched one hand on the front seat of his ride, the other resting gingerly on his cane.

“This is wonderful!” he said as the band flowed into Bill DeVoe’s “Poison,” trombone heavy on the hook. During his own childhood in New Haven, Johnson got used to hearing that there was no money for music equipment in the schools, let alone band uniforms or field trips. He’s never forgotten the teacher who, in fifth grade, put a horn in his hand for the first time.

That moment—and the sweet music it made—inspired his own career as a musician, an educator, and the owner of Dinkie’s, a jazz club on Dixwell Avenue. In 1957, Johnson started his teaching career at Fair Haven School, then a junior high school. New Haven became his home. It meant that the Freddy Fixer, which started as a neighborhood clean up in 1962, was part of his adult life for decades.

“We would meet at the Elks Club,” he said with a smile, looking down the avenue as if he could see the building’s now-demolished shell. This year, he was proud to be returning to it as part of New Haven’s living history, with the hopes of inspiring the next generation of Black musicians, culture bearers, and small business owners in the city.

Beside him, ECFFPC member Monique Cain checked in to see if there was anything he needed, regal in a purple t-shirt and matching white and purple sash. Just days earlier on Friday night, she had been among several longtime volunteers and board members to receive recognition from the committee. Sunday, she celebrated by hopping into the driver’s seat, driving through decades of New Haven music history as she stepped gently on the gas. Standing nearby, “Atomic Veteran” and fellow jazz legend Hank Bolden bobbed to the steady bass of the Hillhouse drumline, smiling as he soaked in the sun with his son, Anthony “Blaze” Bolden. A found-

ing member of the Flaming Knights Motorcycle Club, Blaze has taken part in the parade for years; at this point, it's family tradition. Beside him, his dad called it “a blessing” to be part of the festivities. Now in his 80s, Bolden never thought he’d be in the parade—but said that coming back to Dixwell Avenue felt right.

Growing up around Ashmun Street, Bolden can still remember the early years of the parade, and the joy he got from seeing it travel from Dixwell Avenue to downtown New Haven. He was no stranger to Dixwell: he spent years sneaking into the storied Monterey Club before he was old enough to play, and then years playing at the club when he became a genius on the saxophone.

Meanwhile his late brother, Leroy, founded the Flaming Knight in 1968—just six years after the Freddy started. The Freddy was part of what it meant to be Black and live in New Haven.

But back then, “I had no reason to even think that in the future, I’d be a part of it,” Bolden said. With just half an hour to go until step off, he added, he was hoping for a day filled with “peace and love.”

As attendees began to gather on the sidewalk, members of Elite Drill Squad & Drum Corps danced to the music, braids tightly wound and swinging in the summery air. Jayda Hunter, a sophomore at Wilbur Cross High School, praised the day as a sort of family reunion. With her sister Ja’mese and members of Elite, she’s been part of the parade for four years. Just a few feet away, Guns Down Books Up President Hope Wallace-Howard double checked the organization’s banner, decorated as a tribute to Founder and her younger brother Ray Wallace. Earlier this year, Wallace died unexpectedly at just 58. This year, she was marching with friends and family members as a way to both honor and carry on her baby brother’s legacy.

“What we strive for is excellence and success,” she said. “We want everyone to know that there’s a better way [than violence]. That’s what my brother would have wanted.”

For so many there Sunday, it was a family affair. As Adger leaned down to fuss over 3-year-old New Havener Dream Harrington, the toddler giggled and waved a cluster of blue streamers through the air. This year, she and her sister Journee mark three generations of marching in and attending the Freddy.

“This is a family tradition!” said proud auntie Tiffanie Holmes, who has attended it with her sister and mom on and off for decades. Beside her, Dream pumped her arms up and down, and the streamers glowed in the sunlight. “Everything we do is about exposing kids to the community at large and giving back.”

“I love it,” chimed in Sharon MCLeod, the matriarch of the family. Growing up in Church Street South, she never missed a parade year. Now she’s passing that on to

Members of the Village Drill Team & Drum Corps, helmed by Tayvon Berryman.

Gary Dixon and Naiani Barrett, both wearing clothes by Donald Carter.

Gary Dixon and Naiani Barrett, both wearing clothes by Donald Carter.

Gary Dixon and Naiani Barrett, both wearing clothes by Donald Carter.

Members of Zeta Phi Beta march. "This is family," said Freddy Fixer Awardee Sha McAllister.

3rd Democrat Joins Race For Open State Rep Seat

by STAFF

Local school administrator and Pastor Tarolyn Moore announced on Friday that she’s entering the race to win the Democratic nomination to represent the 94th General Assembly District.

This makes Moore the third candidate to enter the race for the seat, which is open for the first time in eight years after incumbent State Rep. Robyn Porter did not show up to a convention to receive the Democratic Party’s endorsement.

Moore joins Hamden Legislative Council member Abdul Osmanu and former New Haven Alder and current city climate and sustainability Chief Steve Winter. Read more about those two candidates here.

“I am proud to be from the 94th District, and I am committed to giving back to the community that shaped me,” Moore, who has spent her life in New Haven, stated in a Friday press release annoiuncing her candidacy. “I work in this city, I love it, and I want to contribute to posi-

tive change.”

Her campaign priorities include “improving public education, enhancing access to quality jobs, and promoting affordable housing for all residents.”

Moore, a family resource coordinator at a New Haven public elementary school, said she has “firsthand insight into the challenges faced by families and the importance of strong community support systems.”

In addition to her more than “ten years of experience in public education,” she has served as a pastor of The Meeting Place in Woodbridge for 11 years, as part of her “three decades of service in the faith community.”

“I am running for State Representative in the 94th District because I believe in the power of community and the importance of effective representation,” said Moore. “I am committed to advocating for policies that support education, economic development, and family wellbeing. Together, we can build a brighter future for our district.”

Teachers, Students Rally For Schools Budget Bump

by MAYA MCFADDEN

(Updated) “What do we want? Fully-funded schools! When do we want it? Now!”

Those chants echoed down Mitchell Drive Friday morning as New Haven students, teachers, and paraprofessionals kicked off a day of action to rally support for increased funding for the city’s public schools.

As Wilbur Cross students filed into their East Rock school building at around 7 a.m., they were greeted by a crowd of more than 20 school staffers and fellow students. Those assembled rallied in support of the New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) district’s $220 million budget request for next school year.

The Board of Alders is set to take a final vote on next fiscal year’s budget on Tuesday. The amended budget that the Board of Alders Finance Committee endorsed earlier this month preserves Mayor Justin Elicker’s recommendation that the city send the school district $208 million which is $5 million more than the current fiscal year, but $12 million less than that sought by NHPS and the Board of Education.

Members of the New Haven Federation of Teachers (NHFT), Paraprofessionals union, Connecticut American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME Council 4), and Connecticut for All rallied alongside students and educators to make that plea for a $12 million budget bump Friday morning.

The “Day of Action” encouraged school staff to wear black and a green sticker reading “Fund our Schools” to express solidarity for the requested budget increase. NHFT President Leslie Blatteau arranged to make rounds to several schools Friday to encourage others to support the school district’s budget ask.

Blatteau said that over 100 towns in Con-

necticut have higher per-pupil spending for their students than New Haven.

“The needs of our students are growing more and more complex. We know there are English language learning needs. We know there are mental health needs. We know that facilities of our schools need investment,” Blatteau said.

She added that the city’s funding of the Board of Education has made up a smaller and smaller share of the city’s overall general fund budget as the city’s budget has grown and grown in recent years. She reported that in 2010, the public schools budget made up 37 percent of the entire city budget. According to the mayor’s proposed 2024 – 25 budget, she said, the Board of Ed makes up only 31 percent.

“We say enough is enough. We say fund our schools,” she concluded. “We want the alders to send us and our students a mes-

sage that they believe in us.”

Update: Mayor Justin Elicker said in a Friday interview that he agrees with the “spirit” of what the morning’s rally was calling for. “The question is: how do we get there?” The best route, he said, is by keeping the budget pressure up on the state. In that vein, he said that the group’s budget analysis is not correct. The numbers they were working off of included both city dollars and state Education Cost Sharing (ECS) grant dollars that the city passes along to the school board each year as part of its general fund allocation. It’s the ECS grant dollars from the state that have stagnated, Elicker said, while the city portion of budget dollars sent to the Board of Ed has actually increased from 2010 to now from around 6.7 percent of New Haven’s budget to around 9.7 percent. “We need to focus

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Tarolyn Moore.

Cross senior Harmony Cruz-Bustamante.

The new haven independent

The new haven independent

This year's Fantastic Fathers' event on May 30th at the Augusta Lewis Troup School in New Haven was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted warmly by the enthusiastic students asking, "Are you a Fantastic Father?" We knew we were in for a special day.

The event kicked off with an electrifying performance from a full band that set the perfect mood. We honored all the amazing fathers, mentors, grandfathers, uncles, and brothers, recognizing them for the phenomenal roles they play in their families and communities.

But the fun didn’t stop there! We set up 15 tables and taught dads and their children how to play the timeless game of chess. Complements of Fixing Fathers, Inc., each dad left with an incredible gift pack including a chess set, a chess bag, a beginner's book, a pair of socks, and a really cool tie. For these extraordinary dads, Father's Day came early, and it was well-deserved!

A massive thank you to Ms. Tamra Green for inviting us again and organizing this fantastic event. We're already buzzing with excitement for the third Fantastic Fathers event next year and can't wait to see what surprises Ms. Green has in store!

Stay tuned, everyone – the best is yet to come!

For more information about Fixing Fathers, Inc., please visit us at fixingfathers.org

At Fixing Fathers, we live to laugh, we live to learn, and we live to love our children by any means necessary!

State Trooper Killed By Hit-And-Run Driver

by Jamil Ragland

(Updated 9:45 p.m.) State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier was killed by a hitand-run driver on I-84 in Southington on Thursday afternoon.

Pelletier was conducting a traffic stop around 2:36 p.m. near Exit 31 on the eastbound side of the interstate when he was struck by a red pickup truck. Pelletier was declared dead at the scene. He was a nineyear veteran of the State Police.

State Police said the driver left the scene of the accident but the vehicle broke down near Exit 39A, and the driver exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. The driver was apprehended shortly thereafter. Police have said that their investigation is ongoing, and they will release information regarding the driver and charges against them at a later time.

State Police Col. Daniel Loughman described Pelletier as someone with an infectious smile who was dedicated to his job.

“He was a role model to younger troopers and he set a high standard for them to follow,” Loughman said. “But he was much more than that. Aaron was a loving husband and a father of two young children. Aaron

was a son, he was a brother, and he was a friend to every man and woman that wore this uniform. I’m honored to have known and worked with Aaron. I’m heartbroken for his wife and young children and the rest of his family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as we move forward in the days and weeks to come. Trooper First Class Pelletier served the State of Connecticut with honor and integrity, and he will not be forgotten.”

Pelletier graduated from the State Police Training Academy in June 2015. He served in a variety of specialized roles and eventually entered the Connecticut State Police Canine Academy, graduating with his canine partner, Roso, in December 2021. Roso was present in Pelletier’s vehicle when he was struck. Roso was unharmed and transported from the scene by another trooper.

Pelletier is survived by his wife and two children.

Elected officials from across the political spectrum expressed their condolences following the announcement of Pelletier’s death.

“I am devastated to learn about the loss of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, who

was killed today in the line of duty while serving the people of Connecticut,” Gov. Ned Lamont said. “This is a tragic reminder about the dangers law enforcement face every day when they leave their homes and go to work. Trooper Pelletier served Connecticut with honor, integrity, and commitment, and he embodies the definition of public service. His courage and bravery will never be forgotten. On behalf of the State of Connecticut, my condolences and prayers go out to his family, friends, and brothers and sisters with the Connecticut State Police.

I ask the people of Connecticut to keep Trooper Pelletier in their prayers.”

State Sen. Herron Keyon Gaston, cochairman of the Public Safety and Security Committee, honored the fallen trooper while reminding drivers of the need to protect themselves and others while they are behind the wheel.

“Today’s tragic loss of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect us,” Gaston, D-Bridgeport, said in a statement.

“As co-chairman of the legislature’s Public Safety and Security Committee, I offer my deepest condolences to the trooper’s family and colleagues. This terrible incident should serve as a reminder to all of us to exercise care and responsibility behind the wheel in order to protect ourselves, other drivers and the lives of the dedicated men and women who keep us safe.”

House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, spoke about Pelletier’s courage while doing his job under dangerous conditions.

“My heart and thoughts are with the family, friends, and law enforcement colleagues of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, who was killed today while upholding his duty

to keep our state safe. This devastating tragedy highlights the daily dangers that Connecticut troopers and police officers confront as they protect our communities. I am deeply grateful for their courage and sacrifice and will always remember the risks they take to serve us all. May God bless Trooper Pelletier,” he said in a statement.

Ed Hawthorne, President of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, and Shellye Davis, Secretary-Treasurer of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, also released a statement:

“The Connecticut AFL-CIO expresses our deepest sympathies to the family and colleagues of Trooper Pelletier,” they said.

“This is a reminder of the risk our state troopers and all first responders take each and every day as they try to serve the residents of our state. More must be done to protect these workers so they are able to do their jobs as safely as possible. Every worker deserves to be able to go to work and return home safely to their families. That’s really all any worker wants. Earn a decent living and return home safely. We will keep Trooper Pelletier, his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier,

In Photos: New Haven Celebrates The Hill

Martindale | May 21st, 2024

The family of community activist and former Hill Parents Association President Fred Harris poses for a portrait together in honor of the 40 years he has been serving the Hill Neighborhood. The International Festival of Arts & Ideas held its celebration of the Hill neighborhood last Saturday. Alisha Martindale Photos.

Watercolor artist Joyce Lee, who is also a visiting PhD Scholar from Peking University, showcases her artistic talents at The Hill Festival open-air vendor fair. Here, she not only demonstrates her skills but also sells her own handcrafted creations.

Hill resident Bud Mench brings vibrancy to the Hill Neighborhood Festival with his bold attire. Reflecting on the many years he has attended the event, he shares, "I've been coming for years, for the old school hip hop salute. This is a great event, keep it up!"

AMP_Hill Festival_24_W-7100Shenae Draughn and Karen DuBois-Walton of Elm City Communities

Loraine Cannon, Jerry Cannon, Raylin Carr, and Quadyr Cannon pose for a family portrait in front of the Arts and Ideas Mobile Stage at the Hill Neighborhood Festival.

A & I Festival Director Shelley Quiala, Carlah Esdaile Bragg, Dr. Pamela Monk Kelley and Sophie Edelstein.

Jean Nelson, a resident of the Hill Neighborhood since 1974, shares her thoughts on why this event means so much to the Hill community.

Graffiti artist and CT rapper-producer, DJ Dooley-O, creates a custom spray-painted design during the Hill Neighborhood Festival.

Witness Stone Honors Enslaved New Havener

The following writeup was submitted by Hillhouse High School history teacher Kate Goodwin and Hillhouse Assistant Principal Jonathan Q. Berryman.  by

KATE GOODWIN and JONATHAN Q. BERRYMAN

On May 21, James Hillhouse High School students, faculty, and community members gathered in front of City Hall’s Amistad Memorial to unveil a Witness Stone to Jack Woolsey, who was enslaved in New Haven in the 1790s.

Jack Woolsey was sold at the age of 19 to Henry Lloyd in Long Island; Jack joined Lloyd’s daughter’s (Rebecca) and son-in-law’s (Melancthon Taylor Woolsey) household. When her husband died, Rebecca retained legal rights to Jack. Rebecca moved to New Haven and into her daughter’s and son-in-law’s, James Hillhouse, home where Jack continued to be enslaved by Rebecca. Jack joined the crew of the Neptune as a cook. Neptune sailed from New Haven in November 1796 to the Falkland Islands and then to China, where the crew traded seal skins for silks, teas and other items. On the return voyage home, Jack succumbed to dysentery on July 14, 1799 on the voyage home

in the China Sea.

James Hillhouse High School partnered with the Witness Stones Project (WSP), a nonprofit organization which seeks to restore the history and honor the humanity of enslaved individuals who helped build our communities, in 2023 funded by the Graustein Foundation.

The Witness Stones Project curriculum teaches students Connecticut’s involvement in the West Indies and Triangle Trade System, the experience of enslavement in Connecticut and highlights an enslaved person from the community in which the students reside through the analysis of primary documents.

This is the second Witness Stone James Hillhouse High School students have laid; the first stone was laid in May 2023 to honor Dick Bristol. Jack Woolsey’s stone will be installed next to Bristol’s in early June.

James Hillhouse High School was recently featured in CT Public’s “Unforgotten: Connecticut’s Hidden History of Slavery” (episode 5) for their work with WSP.

The New Haven Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (NHE3) is a business-support network partnering with entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) to build an inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem for historically marginalized entrepreneurs in Greater New Haven. With a focus on funding BIPOC-and Woman-owned businesses, NHE3 intentionally provides grants to help small businesses thrive.

Grant round dates:

2nd round opens on Dec 1st and closes on Jan 31st (review and awards: end of

3rd round opens on Mar 1st and closes April 30th (review and awards: end of May)

4th round opens on June 1st and closes July 31st (review and awards: end of August)

Top Row: Dr. Jonathan Q. Berryman, Dennis Culliton, Joy Burns, Malik Gordon, Christopher Thompson, Makenzie Poe, Anthony Duncan, Jaiquan Harrigan, Aniya Harris, Ajah Burney, Quadir Trimble, Luis Suarez Bottom Row: Michael Morand, Kaitlyn Goodwin, Frenche Baines, David Martinez, Malaki Caraballo, Carlimar Blanco, Savanna St. Surin, Josiah Babb, Jon Roberts, De'Andre Player, Saniyah Walker, Mayor Elicker, Dr. Hope McGrath

Weight and Measures: Accessing Patients Health Beyond BMI

By Keyaira Boone, BlackHealthMatters.com

“What is healthy weight?” Dr. Terilyn Scott-Winful asked at the Black Health Matters Understanding Obesity What Are You Weighing For webinar earlier this year. “When we talk about the Body Mass Index, this index needs to be taken with a grain of salt. When we apply it to the general population, it’s most useful for research purposes.”

Last year, the American Medical Association addressed the prickly past of the BMI’s ascent from the gold standard in evaluating body composition, acknowledging it as an imperfect clinical measure that shouldn’t be used as the lone assessment tool. “The AMA recognizes issues with using BMI as a measurement due to its historical harm, its use for racist exclusion, and because BMI is based primarily on data collected from previous generations of non-Hispanic white populations,” they declared.

However, many physicians still use BMI as a metric in their charting. The BMI not only fails to maintain predictability when it is employed on an individual level, but it also has historical issues baked into its conception. It was not mindfully designed to consider diversity.

Acknowledging that BMI measures height and weight but does not evaluate fat distribution in a person’s body is helpful. Someone with an especially muscular frame could be miscategorized due to the failure of BMI to account for weight that does not fit its narrow limitations. Yale

Medicine confirmed that “a person with lots of muscle and minimal body fat can have the same BMI as a person with obesity who has much less muscle.”

Dr. Scott-Winful noted theoretically that BMI may be a good place to begin a diagnosis. They are not comprehensive labels that require no explanation. “These broad categories of underweight, healthy weight, overweight can help serve as a starting point to be able to stratify if a patient potentially has a problem,” the physician certified in gastroenterology and obesity medicine explained.

The AMA recommended that physicians combine BMI with other measurements to assess the health of their patients fully. Doctors can also explain that while BMI is a widely adopted standard against which patient progress is measured, other options can help them understand their health.

Studies show that patients with higher BMIs are less respected than patients with a healthy weight, and physicians report seeing patients who are obese as less compliant and self-disciplined,” according to the British Journal of General Practice. Discussing the merits and the value of the BMI could help promote more effective dialogues.

Body Fat

One of the other measurement tools Dr Scott-Winful uses is body fat. This index changes for males versus females. “What’s acceptable for a female patient may be considered increased body fat in a male patient,” Dr Scott-Winful pointed out. “But it’s also important to note that

you can have a normal Body Mass Index and have an elevated body fat percentage and still be pretty unhealthy.”

Waist Circumference

Dr. Scott-Winful’s third assessment with her patients is measuring their waist circumference. “Waist circumference is also an index that it’s important to look at primarily because this is one of the metrics associated with metabolic disease,” said Dr. Scott-Winful.

“Having a waist circumference in general of 35 in women and 40 in men can be associated with increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol. But it’s also important to note that that chang-

es based on ethnic background,” she continued. So, for black patients, having a lower waist circumference is a cutoff as well as Latino and Asian patients, and this has been demonstrated in studies.”

But there are also some additional diagnostic tools worth exploring that will help physicians assess the health of their patients:

Waist-To-Hip Ratio

The Journal of American Medical Association established that “some individuals store proportionally more fat around their visceral organs (abdominal adiposity) than on their thighs and hip.” Research

reported at Stockholm’s European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Stockholm, Sweden, suggested that an individual’s waist circumference might better indicate their overall health than their BMI.

This research is still being conducted, but it is a helpful way to illustrate a patient’s challenges. It’s also easy to measure. Focusing on waist circumference also provides patients with information about visceral fat, which clings to one’s midsection.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Harvard’s School of Public Health labeled magnetic resonance imaging, also referred to as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, as a more sophisticated option for obtaining accurate body measurements. It provides the nuance that the BMI is missing by accounting for the “measurement of specific body fat compartments, such as abdominal fat and subcutaneous fat.” There are detractors for this method. It requires expensive equipment, and it can not be conducted on pregnant people. Explain this to your patient if it is inappropriate and suggest other alternatives.

Relative Fat Mass

Scientific Reports published a study “compared with BMI, RFM had a more linear relationship with DXA (dual-energy X-ray) whole-body fat percentage among women.” This makes it a potential tool that could replace the BMI. Moving beyond BMI will allow you to provide even better healthcare solutions for your patients.

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Faces the Battle of Her Life After Cancer Diagnosis

Now, the stalwart Texas representative is facing the battle of her life after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has fought tirelessly for groundbreaking legislation throughout her career. She authored the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, creating the first new federal holiday in nearly four decades, and fervently championed the Violence Against Women Act, ensuring its passage for the first time in almost ten years. Now, the stalwart Texas representative is facing the battle of her life after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

In a statement posted to X on Sunday, the 74-year-old congresswoman disclosed her diagnosis and treatment. “My doctors have confirmed pancreatic cancer, and I am currently undergoing treatment,” Jackson Lee shared. “I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to target my specific disease. The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.”

Jackson Lee has represented Texas’ 18th District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1995. Now in her 15th term, she serves on the House Committees on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and the Budget, and is the first female Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee for Crime and Federal Government Surveillance, a subcommittee she chaired during the 117th Congress.

Her legislative achievements are extensive and impactful. Jackson Lee has spearheaded the Sentencing Reform Act, the George Floyd Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act, and the RAISE Act. She has also introduced crucial bills like the Fair Chance for Youth Act, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, and Kaleif’s Law. An unwavering advocate for women and children, she fervently supports the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and has championed outreach to minority- and women-owned businesses in the commercial space industry. Additionally, she authored the Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research and Education Act. Recognized as one of the 50 most effective Members of Congress by ‘Congressional Quarterly’ and among the ten most

influential legislators in the House by ‘U.S. News and World Report,’ Jackson Lee’s influence extends beyond legislation. She is a founder, member, and Chair of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and

the Congressional Children’s Caucus, as well as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Energy Braintrust and Co-Chair of the Justice Reform Task Force. Educationally, Jackson Lee holds a B.A. in Political Science from Yale University and a J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School. She is married to Dr. Elwyn Lee, an administrator at the University of Houston. She has two children: Jason Lee, a Harvard graduate, and Erica Lee, a Duke graduate and member of the Harris County School Board. She is also the proud grandmother of twins Ellison Bennett Carter and Roy Lee Carter III. Despite her diagnosis, Jackson Lee remains resolute in her commitment to her congressional duties. “I am committed to working with our Congressional leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jefferies and the Speaker of the House, to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people,” she affirmed.

Prioritizing Men’s Health: An Essential Checklist for Every Age

By BlackHealthMatters.com

Taking charge of your health is a responsibility that should never be overlooked, regardless of your gender. However, men, including African American men, often tend to neglect regular health check-ups, which can result in delayed detection and treatment of potential health issues.

To help men, especially African American men, prioritize their well-being, Black Health Matters present the Men’s Health Checklist. While it is important for each individual to be cognizant of their family history and personal issues, this comprehensive guide outlines the essential screenings and exams that men should consider at different stages of life, ensuring proactive health management and an improved quality of life.

In Your 20s:

• Annual Physical Exam: Make it a habit to schedule an annual check-up with your primary care physician. This will allow them to assess your overall health, review your family medical history, and establish a baseline for future comparisons.

• Sexual Health: If you’re sexually active, it’s important to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) annually or more frequently based on your sexual behavior. Openly discuss safe sex

practices and any concerns you may have with your doctor.

• Skin Check: Regularly examine your skin for any new or changing moles and other skin abnormalities. If you notice

any concerning changes, seek the advice of a dermatologist.

In Your 30s:

• Blood Pressure: African American men, in particular, have a higher risk of hy-

pertension. Have your blood pressure checked at least once every two years.

If you have a family history of hypertension or other risk factors, consider more frequent monitoring to stay ahead of any

potential issues.

• Cholesterol Levels: Starting at age 35, it’s advisable to have your cholesterol levels checked every five years. African American men tend to have higher cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease. If you have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or smoking, consult your doctor for earlier and more regular screenings.

• Testicular Examination: Perform monthly self-examinations to detect any lumps or abnormalities in the testicles. If you notice anything unusual, consult a healthcare professional.

In Your 40s:

• Prostate Health: African American men have a higher risk of prostate cancer and tend to develop it at a younger age. Engage in a discussion with your doctor about prostate cancer screening, usually through a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Consider starting discussions earlier, around age 45, to stay proactive in your health management.

• Diabetes Screening: African American men are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Consider getting screened for diabetes every three years, especially if you have risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle.

Take the month of June to take a look at your health. Get on track during Men’s Health Month.

You owe it to yourself (and the people you love) to take care of your health. A great first step is to schedule your next medical and dental checkup, screening or immunization.

Use the benefits that are part of any health and dental coverage you have; they make it easy for you to do what’s needed to stay healthy. And remember that regular checkups can help identify health issues before they become more serious.

All health plans offered through Access Health CT include coverage for important essential health benefits to keep you and your family healthy.

Learn more at AccessHealthCT.com/Use-Your-Plan.

What Men’s Health Month Means For African Americans

By BlackHealthMatters.com

Men’s Health Month occurs every June with this year’s Men’s Health Week occurring June 12th through the 18th. This month, we dedicate time to raising awareness for the health issues that many men face, especially Black Americans and multiracial people. Understanding your risk for health conditions based on racial background and other risk factors, like age and family history, is vital. We look at some of the most common health issues that the Black population faces, what you can do to live a healthier lifestyle, and how you can make an impact this month.

Health Issues Affecting Black Americans

While people self-identifying as any race are susceptible to many health conditions, the Black population is especially vulnerable to several. From a lack of educational attainment to living in poorer neighborhoods to higher rates of unemployment and being uninsured, the Black community is fighting for racial equality in healthcare. Men’s Health Month stresses the importance of the struggle that many men face when seeking care for these conditions and more.

Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease is a term used to describe a number of conditions related to the heart, including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, and more. Although Black women are disproportionately affected by heart disease as compared to Black men, African Americans are much more susceptible to it than White people. The Office of Minority Health reports that both African American and non-Hispanic White people were diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease in similar numbers, but that Black people were less likely to have their hypertension controlled and more likely to die from heart disease.

Mental Health Concerns

Many Blacks live in low-income neighborhoods and are below the poverty line themselves, placing them at higher risk for psychological distress. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the rates of serious mental illness rose among African Americans between 2008 and 2018. As an example, while depression and major depressive episodes have decreased overall across the country and all races, they have increased sharply among all age groups of Black Americans. Black teenagers are more likely to attempt suicide but, as a race, African Americans are less likely to die by suicide compared to those of other ethnic background.

Prostate Cancer

Black Americans are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than White men and other people of color. Part of the problem is that their cancer is detected later when it is more advanced and there are fewer treatment options available. Awareness and early detection has improved survival rates for all races,

including African American patients. Today, when caught early, prostate cancer has a 99% 5-year survival rate. More needs to be done to raise awareness of prostate cancer and its disproportionate effects on the black population. However, there have already been great strides made with concerted efforts on behalf of government agencies, local community organizations, and healthcare providers.

Diabetes

Diabetes affects your body’s use of insulin, either by changing how much of it is produced or how well it responds to

it. It often leads to other serious health conditions like heart disease and kidney disease. Diabetes also affects the Black population more than non-Hispanic Whites and every other race. The Office of Minority Health reports that African American adults are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes, with Black men more likely to die from it. In recent years, it’s been found that Black people were more than 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized with complications from the disease and twice as likely to succumb to it than White people.

lack of preventative care, lifestyle choices, and limited access to healthy foods.

Living a Healthier Life

The School of Public Health and Indiana University has offered a list of ways that all men, regardless of race, can improve their overall health, reduce their risk of chronic illness, and feel better each day. Remember that men’s health is important all year and not just in June when we recognize Men’s Health Month. If you have any existing health conditions or questions about implementing the suggestions below, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Your ideal weight is typically measured by body mass index (BMI). You can use a BMI calculator to help you determine the ideal weight for your height. It will not include body type or other factors, so your doctor may give you a different target weight.

• Eat a Healthy Diet: It’s important to consider the types of foods you eat and the size of your portions. While there are many trendy diets out there, the best bet is to learn more about the foods you eat, like protein, carbohydrate, and fat content.

• Take a Multivitamin Supplement: Multivitamins are a great way to ensure you get plenty of the nutrients your diet may be lacking.

• Stay Hydrated: You should aim to drink 0.5 ounces of water per one pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, you should drink approximately 100 ounces of water each day.

• Exercise Regularly: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of physical activity each week. You can break this down into shorter workout sessions throughout the week that fit better into your schedule. If needed, start small and work your way up.

• Reduce Screen Time: Sitting down too much increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. If you must work at a computer most of the day, be sure to take frequent breaks. Getting up to walk or stretch can help you feel better throughout the day as well.

• Get Enough Sleep: The amount of sleep you need changes as you get older. The important thing is that you feel rested when you wake up. Good sleep is linked to improved mood, brain performance, and overall health.

Kidney Disease

The National Institutes of Health has insight into why Black people are more likely to suffer from kidney disease than any other race. American Indians and Alaskan Natives are 1.2 times and Hispanics are 1.3 times more likely to be diagnosed with kidney failure. By comparison, Black Americans are four times as likely to suffer from it. The two most common causes of kidney failure are hypertension and diabetes, which are also prevalent in African American communities for a variety of reasons, including the

• Limit Alcohol Intake: Alcohol should be consumed in moderation and safely. Long-term alcohol use is linked with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer. It may also lead to risky sexual relations, motor vehicle crashes, and violence.

• Manage Mental Health: There are many ways you can support your mental health, from self-care to practicing gratitude to regular meditation. By putting yourself first you are better able to support those around you. Con’t on page 17

• Keep Yourself Accountable: Whether you turn to a support group, your family and friends, or use an app, keeping yourself in line with your health goals is important.

How to Raise Awareness for Men’s Health Month

It’s easy to help raise awareness for Men’s Health Month this June and there are plenty of ways to do it too. Be sure to involve women and families if appropriate, as they are some of your biggest advocates and want you to stay healthy as well. While Black people may be disproportionately affected by some health conditions and struggle with the healthcare system for various reasons, Men’s Health Month is the ideal time to help create balance. Here’s how you can help:

• Wear Blue Day: In 2023, Wear Blue Day is celebrated on June 16th. The goal is to help raise awareness for men’s health, which will ultimately lead to longer, healthier lives.

• Share Your Support: Do you know someone who is struggling with their mental health, heart disease, or other condition? Many Black people suffer in silence. Take this opportunity to reach out and encourage them.

• Create an Awareness Campaign: There are many ways you can raise awareness through a campaign. Ask the HR department at work to set up an event, send out flyers within your local community, or write a letter to the editor at your newspaper.

• Join a Fundraiser: Is there a fundraiser happening nearby? Join that 5K walk, request sponsorship in the next food drive, or simply announce that you’ve made a donation to an organization and ask others to do the same.

• Start a Healthy Living Group: Do you know plenty of men who would benefit from going for regular walks, staying accountable on a healthy diet, or losing weight? Why not band together to make it happen?

• Organize a Health Fair: You can work with a local health clinic to advertise preventative screenings for prostate cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and other conditions. Reach out to a few and see if they are interested in raising awareness for Men’s Health Month.

• Plan a Sports Day: Have your friends, family, and local communities come together for a sports day. Pay a small fee to play and send the proceeds to an organization who can use the funds to support men’s health.

Men’s Health And The Black Population: Raising Awareness

Black Health Matters stands with you in our efforts to raise awareness for men’s health. We encourage you to support those you love with health conditions such as heart disease or mental health diagnoses, share your own stories of hope and survival, and collaborate with peers this June to raise awareness for Men’s Health Month.

New Haven Public Schools

Programs for 3 and 4 Year Olds in New Haven

Free 6-hour early childhood programs for low-income New Haven families in the following New Haven Public Schools:

Dr Mayo Early Childhood School

Fair Haven School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

Hill Central School

John Martinez Sea & Sky STEM School

Lincoln Bassett Community School

Truman School

Additional community locations also participate in the program.

Sliding scale, fee-based 6-hour early childhood programs for New Haven families in the following New Haven Public Schools:

Augusta Lewis Troup School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

East Rock Community School

Hill Central School

Nathan Hale School

Additional community locations also participate in the program

any questions

be Accepting Applications

How to apply

The Office of Early Childhood will be accepting applications electronically beginning May 20th Parents of 3 and 4 year old's are encouraged to apply online.

What you will submit with your Application

1) Proof of Age

Child’s Birth Certificate, Passport OR Legal Custody/Guardianship Papers

2) Proof of Address

• Current utility bill (Gas, Electric, Phone, Cable) in your name

• Letter from leaseholder or homeowner along with a document listed above with their name on it

3) Proof of Income

• 2 months of Current & Consecutive pay stubs OR W-2 or 1040 Tax Return

• Budget Statement from the CT Department of Social Services or Social Security Office or Child Enforcement Bureau

•Notarized Statement indicating Parent is unemployed

• Additional forms may be requested

4) Proof of a Physical (within one year-to-date)

• CT Department of Education Early Childhood Health Assessment Record

• Anemia and lead level test results

•TB assessment

• Immunizations records

• Seasonal flu vaccination

• Health insurance card

5) Proof of a Dental Exam (within 6months-to-date)

Taye Diggs and His Sister Christian Want to Change the Conversation Around Schizophrenia

ByCorynne Corbett BlackHealthMatters.com

There are some mental illnesses we have been afraid to talk about, and schizophrenia is one of them. Actor Taye Diggs believes we need to change the conversation. “Those cliches are rooted in the past.” He should know. His sister, Christian, was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a young adult, and he and his family have been supporting her through her journey every step of the way. Recently, Bristol Myers Squib announced Diggs as a Schizophrenia Community Partner to empower those with the condition through the Live Your PosSCZible Campaign.

Christian Diggs opened up to us about her diagnosis, treatment, and learning to live, learn, and thrive beyond that.

“My first episode occurred on a flight. That day, my life completely changed. Everything in my world suddenly felt disconnected,” she says. “I felt out of control; my mind was not mine.”

“At first, it was really scary and shocking, but after getting a diagnosis. I felt a sense of relief.” Since she comes from a family of academics, she immediately went into research mode to discover everything she could about the condition. The adjustment took some time.

“I felt like a passenger in my own body,” she says. “I had to constantly remind myself that that phase of my life was over and that I must focus on learning how to

live and succeed in this next phase.”

to tough and seemingly insurmountable situations.

I am capable of more than just surviving my diagnosis; I can live again. I thought I had lost everything, but with patience and determination, I have slowly gotten back out there and learned to reconnect with people.

I learned to trust that I know what I need to be okay now and ask for help if unsure. When living with symptoms of schizophrenia, it is crucial to have a care team to help you find tools and coping mechanisms that work and make sense for you.

It is essential to stay connected to friends and family and to use outside resources, including those from the advocacy groups featured on the Live Your PosSCZible website.

I seek joy in my work as a Carpenter! Christian is now in her 4th year as a Carpenter Apprentice. “Every day, I go to work feeling so much gratitude and awe that I’ve made it to this phase of my life!”

think that….. living your PosSCZible could become a reality.”

Since being diagnosed with schizophrenia at 21, Tyson McGuire has discovered that he doesn’t give up easily. “Even though dealing with schizophrenia is a challenge, I try my best not to make sure I don’t spiral down,” he says. “I try to be happy and smile a lot.”

Tyson has a sound support system that includes his mother, sister, and friends, who keep him grounded in reality. They make sure that he’s okay and that he doesn’t isolate himself. “I have had some friends who didn’t understand schizophrenia and how it affects people,” he says. “Some people have bad stereotypes about it. I had one friend whose girlfriend didn’t want me to come over to their house because of my diagnosis.”

“Music also helps me a lot. I play piano and compose my own music, which I started before my diagnosis and continue today,” Tyson says.

However, since schizophrenia is so misunderstood, Christian experienced many mixed emotions early on. “When I was first diagnosed, I experienced a lot of shame and embarrassment about what I was going through. I felt that I had let fully realize until years later, when my symptoms had lessened, how integral and solid my family’s support had been. Honestly, I would not have made it to where I am today if it weren’t for my family.”

Through her schizophrenia journey, Christian has learned a lot about herself:

Making the transition back home after a long-term care stay can be hard, but Money Follows the Person, or MFP, can provide the support you need! MFP helps people who have been in a nursing facility for 60+ days to get the care and supports they need at home. MFP can also help people find housing and assist with home modifications. Learn more.

Hot yoga is essential to her, too. She started the classes as a way to develop mental discipline. “At first, being in a hot room with so many people was extremely difficult, and I would have to leave the class,” she says. “With time, I could stay longer and longer, and now taking a class is no sweat…actually, a lot of sweat is involved. I also find happiness in dancing and cycling, and I’m learning to roller

CAREER CONQUER YOUR YOU CAN

If I had to use one word to describe myself today, it would be “perseverance.” Although some of my goals don’t look the same as before my diagnosis, I am finding new ways to Live my posSCZible. I was recently accepted into Ohio State University (OSU), where I’ll continue my physics degree. And I continue to develop skills – like music and art – that I started when I was younger and continue to enjoy today.

Have you thought about a new career path but aren’t sure where to start?

With Career ConneCT, you have a partner through application and training – plus the support and resources to take you even further!

Learn more about your options at MyPlaceCTMFP.org or call the toll-free number 1-888-99CTMFP (1-888-992-8637).

Freddy Fixer

her granddaughters.

Just a block away at Dixwell Avenue and Bassett Street, a fleet of police motorcycles revved their engines, signaling the start of the parade. Behind them, Dixwell Avenue burst into sound and color and movement as marching units lurched forward. On both sides of Bassett Street, a wave of excitement traveled down the sidewalks, where dozens more marchers, parade floats, and cars waited to join the action.

As he unwrapped a pink, cloud-like plume of cotton candy for his daughter Samiyra, attendee Percel Boyd declared the parade “the nicest one they’ve had in a long time.” Born and raised in Newhallville, where he still lives with his family today, “this was something we always looked forward to,” he said. He loves the idea of Samiyra, who is two, also growing up with it as part of her summer.

Closer to Dixwell and Thompson Street, siblings Vondeen and Alonzo Ricks found a patch of shade and set up their lawn chairs, cheering on an event they’ve attended since they were kids growing up in the Hill. For years, Vondeen marched as a member of the Prince Street School drill team, which ceased to exist decades ago. At some point Alonzo joined her as a member of the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet School band. While he now lives in Atlanta, he loves coming home to tradition.

“It was always such a big event,” said Vondeen as she cheered on a group of breast cancer survivors. In her lap, her 14-year-old poodle, Max, watched young musicians from Roberto Clemente Academy lift their horns and flutes and begin to play. “We looked forward to this every year.”

“It’s amazing!” added Alonzo. “I love to see all of the young kids participating.” That sense—that it’s on a new generation to take up the Freddy—was everywhere, from knots of children on Bassett Street to drumlines with members who haven’t yet celebrated their seventh or eighth birthdays. Before the parade began Sunday, both Brown and Adgre stressed the importance of a younger guard taking up the charge, to keep it going as they join the ranks of community elders.

As he watched the action unfold from his front yard, musician Moe Peace remembered watching the Freddy for years, as new marching units joined its ranks and parents, aunts, uncles and cousins put aside work for a day to be with each other. “It was always a family event,” he said. Now that he’s grown, he can’t imagine summer in New Haven without it. When he heard that Brown and Adger would be stepping down, he worried for the future of the parade. Sunday, he said that he hopes young people take it up to keep it going.

For more from the parade, check out the Arts Council's Instagram or I Love New Haven.

Escuelas Públicas de New Haven uelas Ha

ESTAREMOS

Programas para niños de 3 y 4 Años de edad en New Haven

Programas para la infancia temprana GRATUITOS de 6 horas para familias de bajos ingresos de New Haven en las siguientes escuelas públicas de New Haven:

Dr. Mayo Early Childhood School

Fair Haven School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

Hill Central School

John Martinez Sea & Sky STEM School

Lincoln Bassett Community School

Truman School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

Programas de educación temprana de 6 horas con tarifa variable y de escala móvil para familias de New Haven en las siguientes escuelas públicas de New Haven:

Augusta Lewis Troup School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

East Rock Community School

Hill Central School

Nathan Hale School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

dudas o preguntas

Para mas informacion contactar:

P a m e l a N g

Coordinadora de inscripción de Infancia Temprana Tel: 475-220-1440

pamela.ng@new-haven.k12.ct.us

La oficina de Registracion de Infancia Temprana esta ubicada

Oficina de Elección e Inscripción Escolar 54 Meadow St 1st Fl New Haven, CT 06519

ACEPTANDO APLICACIONES PARA EL CICLO ESCOLAR 2024-2025 !!!!!

Como aplicar: La Oficina de Infancia temprana aceptará solicitudes electrónicamente a partir del 20 de mayo Se anima a los padres de niños de 3 y 4 años a presentar su solicitud en línea.

Qué incluir en su inscripción:

1) Prueba de edad

• Certificado de nacimiento / Pasaporte del niño/a O

• Documentos legales de custodia / tutela

2) Prueba de dirección •Factura de servicio actual (gas, electricidad, teléfono) a su nombre •Formulario de declaración jurada de residencia

3) Demostración de ingresos

•2 meses de talonarios de pago actuales y consecutivos O W-2 o Formulario de impuestos 1040

• Declaración de presupuesto del Departamento de Servicios Sociales de CT, o de la Oficina del Seguro Social, o de la Oficina de Cumplimiento de Menores (Child Enforcement Bureau)

• Declaración ante notario indicando que el padre o la madre es desempleado/a

4) Físico (dentro del último año)

• Registro de evaluación de la salud del Departamento CT de educación de primera infancia

• Resultados de exámenes de anemia y plomo

• Evaluación TB

• Registros de inmunizaciones

• Vacunación de la gripe de estación

•Tarjeta de seguro de salud

5) Examen dental

• Registro de examen dental (dentro de los últimos 6 meses)

Meet Captain Theresa M. Claiborne, the first Black female pilot in the U.S. Air Force who just retired

by Abu Mubarik, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Get to know Capt. Theresa Claiborne, a trailblazer in modern aviation. In 1982, she became the first Black woman to fly with the U.S. Air Force, and in 1990, she joined United, where she later became a captain, according to CNN.

Claiborne accumulated more than 20,000 flight hours during her career. On Thursday, May 23, 2024, she undertook her last flight to mark the end of her career in the aviation sector. She made her final landing for United on Thursday at Newark, New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport.

“I’ve had a great career,” Claiborne told CNN Travel ahead of her final flight. “And it’s time for me to park the brakes for the final time on a big airplane.”

While on retirement after 43 years of flying planes, Claiborne hopes she can “still make an impact on the industry,” she noted in the interview with CNN.

In a post on Instagram to mark her retirement, she wrote, “I plan to spend my days inspiring young people to follow their dreams by turning them into goals, shattering glass ceilings, and defying all odds. I’ll be calling in my friends from

all around the world to share their experiences to empower the next generation of trailblazers who are destined for greatness.”

“It’s been a pleasure to be your Captain and an absolute honor to fly the friendly skies,” her post concluded.

Claiborne did not imagine herself becoming a pilot. She was only seven years old when she took her first flight, an international jaunt to Turkey. Originally from Virginia, her father served in the military, which gave her the opportunity to be on big planes.

“My father was military,” she said. “So I grew up really all over the world… I’d been on big airplanes before but never dreamt of flying one.”

However, things changed when she joined the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) during college and was allowed to fly in a T-37, a twinengine jet trainer, according to CNN.

“Once I got that first taste of being in the air and being in command of the airplane, I was like, ‘Yeah, this is what I’m going to do,” said Claiborne, who was about 20 at the time.

Claiborne initially wanted to apply for

undergraduate pilot training, but at the time, the U.S. Air Force was only training 10 women a year and had already selected the women for the training. However, when the number increased, she seized the opportunity to earn her pilot wings. After six months, she graduated from California State University in Sacramento and began pilot training.

“It’s sink or swim… Either you make it or you don’t,” she noted about her initial challenge of getting trained as a pilot. According to her, she “didn’t have a strong math background.” She continued, “I just beared down and made sure that I made it, because that’s the kind of personality I have.”

She became the first black woman to fly in the U.S. Air Force after receiving her commission as a second lieutenant in 1981. She then became a flight officer for United Airlines while committed to increasing pilot diversity.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 93.7% of professional pilots are White and 92.5% of professional pilots are male. Thee are now about 150 Black women pilots in the U.S. Claiborne was one of 25 Black female pilots at United Airlines at the time of her retirement.

From refugee to Northern Ireland’s first Black mayor, meet Lilian

by Au Mubarik, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Lilian Seenoi-Barr has made history by becoming the first black mayor in Northern Ireland. Seenoi-Barr, who is originally from Kenya, will represent the city of John Hume and Derry Girls, according to the Guardian.

She first arrived in the country as a refugee from Kenya and became part of the region’s growing multi-ethnic

identity. However, her election has also raised questions about her safety. This is because not everyone is happy with her elevation.

According to the Guardian, far-right activists have capitalized on her elevation to create the notion that Ireland, north and south, is being “invaded.” As a result, she has received multiple death threats and racist abuse.

“To have your life threatened is not a good feeling when you genuinely just

Seenoi-Barr

want to serve the people of your city,” Seenoi-Barr, who will assume office on June 3, told The Guardian in an interview. “People are absorbing populist information that is quite loud. It’s kind of like every single problem that exists in the north of Ireland or across Ireland has been caused by immigrants.”

Derry and Strabane mayor-designate Seenoi-Barr’s feat has come at a time when there is a backlash against immi

Forbes reveals how much Kamala Harris is worth now after almost four years in office

by Abu Mubarik, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Kamala Harris is the first woman and first Black person to be elected Vice President of the United States of America after running with Joe Biden in 2020. Before becoming U.S. vice president, she served as a Senator for California from January 2017 to January 2021.

She first ran for office in 2003 and was elected to become the district attorney of San Francisco. In 2010, she ran for the attorney general post in the state of California, which she won, making her the first Black woman to hold the position.

As vice president of America, Harris is expected to earn $235,100 per year,

a lot more than she made as Senator for California which was around $174,000.

In her memoir, The Truths We Hold: An American Journey, Harris noted that “We weren’t rich in financial terms. But the values we internalized provided a different kind of wealth.”

Now, as the vice president of America, and having served in various capacities, Harris is surely rich. In 2021, Forbes estimated her net worth, which she shares with her husband, Douglas Emhoff, at $7 million. The Business magazine noted in 2019 that their assets include an estimated $5.8 million homes in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco as well as retirement accounts worth at least $1.4 million.

After almost four years in office, Forbes now estimates that her net worth, along with her husband, has increased from $7 million to about $8 million, which is roughly 20 times the median net worth of Americans in their age bracket. Besides owning a multimillion-dollar home in Los Angeles, Forbes wrote that the rest of their assets mostly comprise cash, index funds, bonds and pensions.

In 2020, Fortune reported that Harris and Emhoff’s net worth is $6.3 million, basing it on the assets listed in her Senate financial disclosure, filed in May of that year. “More recently, Harris disclosed that she personally made $277,763 in income in 2019 in her latest Senate financial disclosure, all from

book publishing advances,” Fortune wrote.

Harris is the eldest child of her immigrant parents. Her mother comes from India and her dad comes from Jamaica. They first met as undergraduates while participating in a civil rights movement at the University of California Berkeley.

However, her parents separated not long after her younger sister, Maya, was born. The sisters moved into a Berkeley apartment with their mother before moving to Montreal, when her mother landed a new job there. After High School, Harris attended Howard University and the University of California, Hastings College of Law to become a prosecutor.

Claiborne landed her final flight at Newark Airport in New Jersey. She flew a Boeing 787 with her friends and family on board from Lisbon, Portugal.(Source: United Airlines via CNN)

Lilian Seenoi-Barr. Photo via RTE

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071

Deputy Finance

Director/Controller

Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE.

For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

NOTICE

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Town of Bloomfield

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development 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 Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Finance Director

NOTICIA

Salary Range - $101,455 to $156,599

(expected starting pay maximum is mid-range)

VALENTINA

MACRI

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly

Pre-employment drug testing. For more details, visit our website –www.bloomfieldct.org

Portland

Town of Bloomfield QSR STEEL CORPORATION

VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos 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

Police Officer full-time

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury (HACD) is seeking sealed bids for the following Project:Ives Manor – Parking Lot Structure and Deck Repair. Bid Opeing date is 26th of June 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Housing Authority of the City of Dabury, 2 Mill Ridge Road, Danbury, CT 06811. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. A pre-bid walk thru will be held on 12th of June 2024 at 10:00 AM at 198 Main Street, Danbury, Connecticut. Contract documents including Plans & Specifications can be viewed on-line and purchased from the Digiprint Plan Room Services website.Visit www.digiprintplanroom.com/jobs/public and select Ives Manor – Parking Lot Structure and Deck Repair beginning on 5th of June 2024. Bidders will note requirements of nondiscrimination/equal opportunity rules (Executive Order 11246) and related provisions in the General Conditions. No bid shall be withdrawn for ninety (90) days. Complete bidding requirements are noted in the Contract Documents. This project is federally assisted. Therefore, bidders must comply with the following requirements: Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968; Equal Opportunity provisions of Executive Order 11246; Non-Discrimination provision of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Labor Standards provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act and related acts and Contract Work Hours Standards Act; prevailing wage determinations as issued by the United States Department of Labor; and all applicable provisions under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Section 3 requirements will be required on this project. HACD is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Ms.

Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

Assistant Production Manager

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

APPLY NOW!

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

All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near bus stop & shopping center

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258

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

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Labor Relations Specialist in the Office of Labor Relations.

Large CT Fence and Guiderail Contractor looking for an experienced Assistant Production Manager to assist with vehicle inspections, shop and yard management, and support of daily operations of residential and commercial fence divisions. Duties include: Monitor and manage quality control for shop and yard activities, including labor hour utilization, process staff paperwork in a timely manner, assist with Inventory Management, attend daily meetings with Scheduling Manager and Superintendents to plan future material and production requirements and participate in weekly sales meetings. Will require physical work in wood, PVC and metal shops. Qualifications: Previous construction and personnel supervisory experience, Valid CT Driver’s License, DOT Medical Card, Demonstrate good time management skills, OSHA 10 certification and required to pass a physical and drug test. Medical, holiday, vacation & other benefits included. Starting pay $22.00 to $28.00 per hr based on experience level. We are an AA/EOE company. Submit resumes to: gforshee@atlasoutdoor.com.

Help Wanted –

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FOR

Vinyl Siding and Soffit Installation at Oval Grove Development, New Britain, CT

The Housing Authority of the City of New Britain (Authority) is inviting sealed bids and fee proposals, in triplicate, for the complete installation of insulated vinyl siding and soffit at the Oval Grove Development.

Submission Deadline: June 28, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

To Obtain a Copy of the RFP: Visit our website at www.nbhact.org under the procurement section.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Housing Authority of the City of New Britain is soliciting proposals from licensed Contractors under the laws of the State of Connecticut, to furnish all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision necessary to complete all work as specified or reasonably implied in the RFP, relating to Twenty-Seven 2Story Apartment Building approximately 160 units. Deadline: June 28, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

To Obtain a Copy of the RFP: Visit our website at www.nbhact.org under the procurement section.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

Fence Installers:

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Large CT Fence & Guardrail Contractor is looking for Fence Installation helpers. Must have at least 2 years of experience installing chain link, wood, PVC and ornamental iron fencing. Work available 10-12 months per year. All necessary equipment provided. Medical, holiday, 401K, vacation & other benefits included. Must be able to pass required physical and drug test. An OSHA 10 Certification is required. A valid CT driver's license is required and must get DOT Medical Card. We are an AA/EOE company. Send resumes/inquiries to: rhauer@atlasoutdoor.com.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castin-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

PVC FENCE PRODUCTION

Large CT Fence Company looking for an individual for our PVC Fence Production Shop. Experience preferred but will train the right person. Must be familiar with carpentry hand & power tools and be able to read a CAD drawing and tape measure. Use of CNC Router machine a plus but not required, will train the right person. This is an in-shop production position. Duties include building fence panels, posts, gates and more. Must have a valid CT driver’s license & be able to obtain a Drivers Medical Card. Must be able to pass a physical and drug test. Please email resume to pboucher@ atlasoutdoor.com. AA/EOE-MF

Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 240508&R2=5256MP&R3=001

Lg CT fence company looking for an experienced foreman in CT and surrounding states who will work as a leader of small crews. Individual will be responsible for all types of fencing installation. Specific tasks include but are not limited to: May be responsible for crew(s) of two or more individuals, manage and troubleshoot problems that arise on site and notify superintendent when needed, ensures employees adhere to all safety and company policies and practices, able to perform fence installation and setting posts as indicated by plans, project site clean-up. Job requirements include the following: preferably have up to 5 years’ experience, have a valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record, must be able to get a DOT medical card, OSHA safety training required prior to start of employment, pass drug screening and a physical test. Medical, vacation, 401K and other benefits included, all necessary equipment provided. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer. Send resume to gforshee@atlasoutdoor.com

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

Fence Erecting Subcontractors:

Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com

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

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

Large CT Fence & Guardrail Contractor is looking for Experienced Fence Subcontractors with at least 5 years of experience in commercial fence. Work available 10-12 months per year, highest labor rates paid. OHSA 10 safety training required and valid CT driver’s license. Must have a reliable truck, proper insurance coverage and your own tools. We are an AA/EOE company. Send resumes/inquiries to: rhauer@atlasoutdoor.com.

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

Large CT Fence Company looking for a full-time individual for our Wood Fence Production Shop. Experience preferred but will train the right person. Must be familiar with carpentry hand & power tools and be able to read a CAD drawing and tape measure. This is an in-shop production position. Duties include mortising & drilling wood posts for fence panels, building fence panels, gates & more. Use of table saws, routers, miter saws, nail guns and other woodworking equipment is required. Some pickup and delivery of materials will be required. Must have a valid CT driver’s license and be able to obtain a Drivers Medical Card. Must be able to pass a physical and drug test. Please email resume to pboucher@atlasoutdoor.com. AA/EOE-MF

NOTICE

MAINTAINER II PUBLIC WORKS

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Attention Landlords!

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development 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 Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

If you have a rental unit in Danbury, Bethel, New Milford, New Fairfield, Ridgefield, Newtown, Brookfield, Redding, Sherman, Bridgewater, Roxbury or Washington CT Learn how this program can benefit you!

• Tenants are required to comply with your lease.

• Keep your vacancy rates low with a large pool of tenants to select from.

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay.

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT

LEGAL NOTICE Request for Proposals (RFP) RFP# 2025-0904: AIDS CADAP

The Town of Wallingford Department of Public Works has openings for Maintainer II. Applicants should possess 2 years’ experience as a laborer in construction work involving the operation and care of trucks and other mechanical equipment, or 2 years training in one of the skilled trades and 1 year of experience in construction operations, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. A valid (CDL) Class B or higher is required. $24.87 - $29.16 hourly plus retirement plan, paid sick and vacation time, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, family medical & dental insurance, and promotional opportunities. A complete job announcement and application may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of June 3, 2024, 2024. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

NOTICIA

• Tenants are already prescreened for criminal background.

• Guaranteed portion of rent each month from the Housing Authority, direct deposited to your account.

• Tenant rent portion is affordable based on income.

• No cost, documented inspections of your unit.

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos 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

• Stay in compliance with the law, Section 8 (HCV) discrimination is illegal.

Visit our website at www.hacdct.org or call for more information and to have your rental advertised for free to our HCV participants at 203-744-2500 x1260

NEW HAVEN

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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.

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

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

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 informalities in the bidding, if such actions are in the best interest of the

The Department of Public Health (DPH) Infectious Disease Section is requesting proposals for the Connecticut AIDS Drug Assistance Program (CADAP). A qualified Pharmacy Benefits Manager or other organization is needed to provide enrollment, pharmacy benefits, insurance premium payments, and rebate management for CADAP.

The Request for Proposal is available in electronic format on the State Contracting Portal at https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard, on the Department’s website at https://portal.ct.gov/ DPH/Request-For-Proposals/Request-forProposals, or from the Department’s Official Contact: Mitchell Namias, 860-509-7718, Mitchell.namias@ct.gov

Deadline for submission of proposals is Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 4:30 PM.

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

Request for Qualifications

IQC Architectural and Engineering Services

The Housing Authority of the City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking proposals from qualified firms for A & E Services. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/ gateway beginning on

Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at 3:00PM.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

send resume to attielordan@gmail.com

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castin-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR BID

Town of Bloomfield

NOTICE

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY

Chimney Cleaning and Repair Services

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

IFB No. B24005

Please register here to obtain Bid Package: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=49968

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN:

Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071

Seymour Housing Authority

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development 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 Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Deputy Finance Director/Controller

Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE.

For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B24005, Chimney Cleaning and Repair Services

Attn: Lisa Gilchrist, Purchasing Agent

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

NOTICIA

June 17th, 2024 at 10:30am (EST)

Town of Bloomfield

Finance Director

Salary Range - $101,455 to $156,599

at Castle Heights NOTICE OF BID

Sealed bids are invited and will be received by the Seymour Housing Authority, until 2:00PM on Monday June, 24, 2024, in the Office of the Seymour Housing Authority, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read aloud.

Proposals must be submitted on the forms provided and in a sealed envelope plainly marked with the appropriate title. “Revitalization at Castle Heights for the Seymour Housing Authority”.

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT: Lisa Gilchrist – Purchasing Agent Telephone: 203-744-2500 x1421

E-Mail: lgilchrist@hacdct.org

[Minority- and/or women-owned businesses are encouraged to respond]

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos 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

Request for Proposals

The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG), North Haven, Connecticut is seeking proposals from qualified and experienced Environmental Consultants to develop a comprehensive regional climate action plan, which builds upon the Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) completed and submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 1, 2024. Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms are strongly encouraged to respond as a prime contractor or to play a significant role within a consultant team. Responses are due by June 13, 2024 (12:00 p.m. local time). The full RFP document and any potential updates can be viewed at SCRCOG’s website: www.scrcog.org. If you would like to request a copy of the RFP, please contact Stephanie Camp, Director of Regional Planning via email: smcamp@scrcog.org.

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near bus stop & shopping center

Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258

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 ofPitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster St. New Haven, CT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Professional Engineering and Architectural Services

For Enabling Project - Phase 1

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.

At New Haven Union Station New Haven Parking Authority New Haven, Connecticut NHPA Project #23-051

Proposals due May 31, 2024 at 3:00 PM.

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

Proposal Documents will be available beginning May 1, 2024 at no cost by downloading from the New Haven Union Station Partnership website at https:// unionstationnewhaven.com/bids-and-proposals/.

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

NHPA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action 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

(expected starting pay maximum is mid-range)

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly

Pre-employment drug testing. For more details, visit our website –www.bloomfieldct.org

Portland

Police Officer

full-time

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

A NON-MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at the Seymour Housing Authority, Seymour Avenue, Seymour, CT 06483 on Tuesday June 4, 2024 at 2:00PM. All prospective bidders are required to attend.

A satisfactory Bid Bond or Certified Check, in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the base bid, shall be submitted with each bid. The Bid Bond shall be made payable to the Seymour Housing Authority and shall be properly executed by the Bidder. A 100% Performance, Labor and Material Bond is also required. All sureties must be listed on the most recent IRS circular 570.

Attention of bidders is directed to certain requirements of this contract which require payment of Davis-Bacon wages, and compliance with certain local, state and federal requirements. This is a partially Federally funded project.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

Contract Documents including plans & specifications can be viewed online beginning Wednesday May 29, 2024 and purchased from Advanced Reprographics Planroom website, visit http://www.advancedplanroom.com/ select “Public Jobs” and select “Revitalization at Castle Heights for the Seymour HA” dated 5/28/24.

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

APPLY NOW!

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

Note: Addenda to this bid will be issued via email. Contractors intending to bid MUST BE REGISTERED on the Advanced Reprographics Plan holder’s list in order to receive direct email of any and all addenda.

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

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

Bids, to receive consideration, must be in the hands of the authorized representative, no later than the day and hour mentioned above.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castin-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

The Seymour Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids; to waive any informalities, or; to accept any bid deemed in the best interests of the Seymour Housing Authority.

All bids will be considered valid for a period of One Hundred Twenty (120) days.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Labor Relations Specialist in the Office of Labor Relations.

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

The contractor who is selected to perform this State project must comply with CONN. GEN. STAT. §§ 4a-60, 4a-60a, 4a-60g, and 46a-68b through 46a-68f, inclusive, as amended by June 2015 Special Session Public Act 15-5.

Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 240508&R2=5256MP&R3=001

Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com

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

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

State law requires a minimum of twenty-five (25%) percent of the state-funded portion of the contract be set aside for award to subcontractors holding current certification from the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services (“DAS”) under the provisions of CONN. GEN. STAT. § 4a-60g. (25% of the total state-funded value with DAS-certified Small Businesses and 6.25% of the total state-funded value with DAS-certified Minority-, Women-, and/or Disabled-owned Businesses.) The contractor must demonstrate good faith effort to meet the 25% set-aside goals

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Construction Equipment Mechanic preferably experienced in Reclaiming and Road Milling Equipment. We offer factory training on equipment we operate. Location: Bloomfield CT We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

Contact: Tom Dunay Phone: 860- 243-2300

Email: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Reclaimer Operators and Milling Operators with current licensing and clean driving record, be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Union Company seeks:

Tractor Trailer Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction Equipment. Must have a CDL License, clean driving record, capable of operating heavy equipment; be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY. We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Construction

Seeking to employ experienced individuals in the labor, foreman, operator and teamster trades for a heavy outside work statewide. Reliable personal transportation and a valid drivers license required. To apply please call (860) 621-1720 or send resume to: Personnel Department, P.O. Box 368, Cheshire, CT06410.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V Drug Free Workforce

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury (HACD) is seeking sealed bids for the following Project:

Laurel Gardens – Stair Replacement Project. Bid Opening date is 19th of June 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Road, Danbury, CT 06811. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. A pre-bid walk thru will be held on 10th of June 2024 at 10:00 AM at 385 Main Street, Danbury, Connecticut. Contract documents including plans & specifications can be viewed online and purchased from the Digiprint Plan Room Services website.

Visit ww.digiprintplanroom.com/jobs/public and select Laurel Gardens – Stair Replacement beginning on the 29th of May 2024. Bidders will note requirements of minimum wage rates, nondiscrimination/equal opportunity rules (Executive Order 11246) and related provisions in the General Conditions. No bid shall be withdrawn for ninety (90) days. Complete bidding requirements are noted in the Contract Documents. This project is federally assisted. Therefore, bidders must comply with the following requirements: Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968; Equal Opportunity provisions of Executive Order 11246; Non-Discrimination provision of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Labor Standards provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act and related acts and Contract Work Hours Standards Act; prevailing wage determinations as issued by the United States Department of Labor; and all applicable provisions under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Section 3 requirements will be required on this project. HACD is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Ms. Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

Senior Sales Representative

Penfield Communications, Inc. Publishers of The Inner-City News Weekly Print Publication is seeking a Senior Sales Representative The Inner-City News is a legacy, Black owned print publication, celebrating 30+ years as Greater New Haven’s urban news and information outlet. The Inner-City News is a weekly print publication with a readership spanning across Greater New Haven. From Hamden, New Haven, West Haven, Stratford, Milford, Bridgeport. This free weekly print publication is committed to sharing news and information important to the Black community.

Advertising and the cultivation of existing and new advertising clients is key to the growth and continued success of The Inner-City News. The paper is delivered weekly to businesses, schools, shopping outlets and wherever

360 Management Group Company está actualmente aceptando aplicaciones para la lista de espera de Mill River Crossing

Ubicados en vecindarios revitalizados, nuestros apartamentos y casas adosadas de nueva construcción cuentan con una, dos, tres y cuatro habitaciones con acceso conveniente al transporte, excelentes escuelas y comodidades. Las características del complejo incluyen mantenimiento de emergencia las 24 horas, actividades para residentes y acceso al área de juegos para niños.

REQUIREMENTS:

Los ingresos del hogar no deben exceder el 60% del ingreso medio del área (IAM). Consulte la siguiente tabla para conocer los requisitos específicos de ingresos y del hogar. # Personas en el hogar

Ingreso máximo para 25% AMI

Ingreso máximo para 50% AMI

Ingreso máximo para 60% AMI

Solicite en línea en https://ecc myhousing com o descargue una aplicación en: http://www.cthcvp.org/ http://www.elmcitycommunities.org

Para recibir una solicitud por correo, por favor llame 475-355-7289 o envíe una solicitud por escrito a Attention: Waitlist Department, Elm City Communities, PO Box 1912, New ¡Escanee el código Haven, CT 06509

QRL para aplicar! Las solicitudes se pueden presenta � En persona en 360 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511 (a través de un buzón ubicado en la puerta principal); o � Enviada por correo al PO Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509

Si usted necesita acomodación razonable para completar su aplicación llame al 203-498-8800 ext. 1506

Las solicitudes se procesaran en el orden en que se reciban y se sellaran la fecha y la hora

Las solicitudes estarán disponibles el 6/17/2024 y deben presentarse antes del 7/17/2024

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development 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 Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

360 Management

Group Company is currently accepting applications for Mill River Crossing

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Located in revitalized neighborhoods, our newly constructed apartments and townhouses feature one, two, three, and four bedrooms with convenient access to transportation, great schools, and amenities. Community features include 24-hour emergency maintenance, resident activities, and playground access.

REQUIREMENTS:

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury (HACD) is seeking sealed bids for the following Project: Ives Manor – Parking Lot Structure and Deck Repair. Bid Opening date is 26th of June 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Road, Danbury, CT 06811. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. A pre-bid walk thru will be held on 12th of June 2024 at 10:00 AM at 198 Main Street, Danbury, Connecticut. Contract documents including Plans & Specifications can be viewed on-line and purchased from the Digiprint Plan Room Services website. Visit www.digiprintplanroom. com/jobs/public and select Ives Manor –

Household earnings must not exceed 60% of the Area Medium Income (AMI) Please see the table below for specific income and household requirements.

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos 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

Parking Lot Structure and Deck Repair beginning on 5th of June 2024. Bidders will note requirements of nondiscrimination/equal opportunity rules (Executive Order 11246) and related provisions in the General Conditions. No bid shall be withdrawn for ninety (90) days. Complete bidding requirements are noted in the Contract Documents. This project is federally assisted. Therefore, bidders must comply with the following requirements: Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968; Equal Opportunity provisions of Executive Order 11246; Non-Discrimination provision of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Labor Standards provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act and related acts and Contract Work Hours Standards Act; prevailing wage determinations as issued by the United States Department of Labor; and all applicable provisions under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Section 3 requirements will be required on this project. HACD is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Ms. Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

Apply online at https://ecc myhousing com or download an application at: http://www.elmcitycommunities.org

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

All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near bus stop & shopping center

Scan the QRL code to apply!

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

To receive an application by mail, please call 475-355-7289 or send a written request to Attention: Waitlist Department, Elm City Communities, PO Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509

Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258

Submit paper applications: � In person at 360 Orange St, New Haven, CT 06511 (via the drop box located at the front door); or � Mail to PO Box 1912, New Haven, CT 06509

FOR

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units) Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Vinyl Siding and Soffit Installation at Oval Grove Development, New Britain, CT The Housing Authority of the City of New Britain (Authority) is inviting sealed bids and fee proposals, in triplicate, for the complete installation of insulated vinyl siding and soffit at the Oval Grove Development.

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 ofPitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster St. New Haven, CT

If you need a reasonable accommodation for assistance in completing the application, Please call 203-498-8800 ext. 1506

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castin-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

Applications will be processed in the order that they are received, and time and date stamped, Applications will be available on 6/17/2024 and must be submitted by 7/17/2024

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.

Listing:  Commercial Driver

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

Submission Deadline: June 28, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

To Obtain a Copy of the RFP: Visit our website at www.nbhact.org under the procurement section.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com

Immediate opening for a Class A full time driver for petroleum/like products deliveries for nights and weekends.  Previous experience required. Send resume to:  HR Manager, P. O. Box 388, Guilford, CT 06437 or email: hrdept@eastriverenergy.com

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

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

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

Galasso Materials LLC, a quarry and paving contractor, has positions open for the upcoming construction season. We are seeking candidates for a variety of positions, including: Scalehouse Dispatcher/ Equipment Operators and Laborers. NO PHONE CALLS. Please email resume and cover letter to “Hiring Manager”, Galasso Materials LLC, PO Box 1776, East Granby CT 06026.

Galasso Materials is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

Guilty, Guilty, Guilty: Former President Trump Convicted on All 34 Felony Counts

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @/StacyBrownMedia

In a historic and dramatic moment, the jury in New York delivered a resounding verdict on Wednesday, finding former President Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This unprecedented decision marks the first time in American history that a former president has been convicted of criminal charges.

A hush fell over the courtroom late in the afternoon as the jury handed Judge Juan M. Merchan a note. “We the jury have a verdict. We would like an extra 30 minutes to fill out the forms if that’d be possible,” the note read. The jury had deliberated for 9.5 hours over two days after a three-week trial.

The twice-impeached, four-times indicted, and now convicted Trump faced charges connected to a $130,000 hushmoney payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels in the days leading up to the 2016 election. The trial featured weeks of tawdry testimony about tabloid deal-making and the alleged sexual encounter between Trump and Daniels. Prosecutors argued that Trump engaged in a fraud against the American people by falsifying records related to the reimbursement of his former lawyer, Michael D. Cohen, who paid Daniels out of his own pocket.

The courtroom was silent as the jury’s verdict was read aloud: “Guilty, guilty, guilty…” repeated 34 times, solidifying the former president’s fate. Trump, who is the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024, now faces a potential sentence ranging from probation to four years in prison. His legal team has already indicated plans to appeal, a process that could extend over several years.

The conviction has drawn sharp re-

actions from political figures. Shasti Conrad, Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party, declared, “Today’s verdict out of New York affirms what the Washington State Democratic Party has been saying for more than eight years –Convicted Felon Donald Trump is wholly unfit to lead our nation,” Conrad stated.

“His conviction today by a jury of his peers demonstrates the lengths Convicted Felon Trump will go to and the laws he

Unveiling the Truth: Riveting

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

In a moving gathering of survivors and spectators, a select group of invitees congregated at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Northeast D.C. on Monday, June 3. The occasion? The unveiling of a long-awaited documentary that sheds new light on the deadly events of January 6, 2021, a day etched in the annals of American history.

The deft hands of Oscar-winning filmmakers Sean Fine and Andrea Nix Fine drew viewers into a heart-wrenching gutpunch of a narrative as the curtains pulled back and the screen came to life. The documentary, titled “The Sixth,” not only captured the horror and chaos of that fateful day but also delved deep into the lives of those thrust into the heart of the storm, evoking a profound emotional response from the audience.

“It’s never been a mystery as to what happened… but tonight, we bring forth a narrative that transcends mere recounting,” remarked Andrea Fine, one half of the acclaimed filmmaking duo. “The Sixth” doesn’t just document the events—it humanizes them.”

The film eschewed the typical focus on the perpetrators and even the insurrection’s primary instigator, former President Donald Trump, opting instead to shine a spotlight on the untold stories of resilience and courage. Through the eyes of six individuals—a diverse ensemble that included a Black photographer named Mel D. Cole, Erica Loewe, a Democratic staffer who serves as the only caregiver to her mother who lives with Alzheimer’s, Congressman Jamie Raskin, and three Metropolitan DC police officers—the audience gained unprecedented insight into the human drama that unfolded amidst the chaos.

Torn with emotion and right in the middle, capturing all the chaos, was Cole, thinking about a world where his toddler son might have to grow up without him because Cole doesn’t know if he’ll survive the Trump-inspired riot. Raskin, there to help certify President Joe Biden’s election victory over Trump, is drenched with emotion, having buried his 25-year-old son a day earlier. Raskin’s son had suffered from mental health challenges and committed suicide. Making the heart pound ever more, Raskin also had to worry about his daughters, who

will break to get what he wants – another four years of power at the expense of hard-working Americans. The Washington State Democratic Party will never stop fighting for a more perfect union, which is why we will continue to resist Donald Trump’s campaign of lies, grift, and autocratic desires with every fiber of our being every minute of every day until the election is over and we have prevented the end of democracy…again.”

This criminal case is one of four Trump is currently facing, but it is likely the only one that will go to trial before Election Day. Trump faces as much as four years in prison, but because he’s viewed as a first-time offender and the convictions are on low-level felonies, he’ll likely receive probation.

“Today, the criminal justice system worked,” National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Chair Bobby Henry stated. “As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. alluded to, the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice,” Henry said.

The NNPA is the trade association of the 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies that comprise the Black Press of America.

“The NNPA congratulates the Manhattan District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, who stood up triumphantly against the criminal acts of former President Trump,” NNPA President Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., stated. “In America, no one should be above the equitable rule of law. In particular, Black America knows too well the horrors of inequity and injustice. In the historic case of New York v. Trump, it now appears that in New York City, finally after centuries of racial oppression, the gavel of justice has now come down on one of the nation’s most zealous criminals who unrepentantly desires to return to the White House in 2024.”

January 6 Documentary Grips Audience with Untold Stories

were inside the Capitol as the attack unfolded.

Loewe, believing death was imminent and worried about who would care for her mother, was among Congressman James Clyburn’s staffers who were barricaded inside an office where rioters were just feet away.

“Every single one of our characters is

serving the public in different ways,” emphasized Andrea Fine. “And so, we love that idea of, what if you’re just coming to do your job, and you’re saddled with that, and how they came through.”

As the documentary unfolded, viewers were transported back to the Capitol grounds, where the echoes of violence still reverberated. From Raskin’s anguish, Cole’s uneasiness, and Loewe’s uncertainty to Officer Christina Laury’s harrowing experiences and the gripping personal history of then-D.C. police chief Robert Contee, “The Sixth” left no stone unturned in its quest for truth.

The fear of rioters yelling at law enforcement, and Contee demanding more help and responding incredulously as U.S. Department of Defense officials held back sending the National Guard because they were concerned about “optics.” All the while, the rioters blast through lines of undermanned officers beating them, including policeman Daniel Hodges, mercilessly.

“Politics was inherent in the violence,” remarked Andrea Fine. “What we were trying to do is [determine] like, okay, what happened that day? Truthfully. Really. And how did it feel to go through

it? How did it affect the people who just showed up to work?”

While the National Guard stood just minutes away but refusing to assist, D.C. Metropolitan Police struggled mightily to fight off the mob, with some of the rioters yelling, “Get his gun,” as they grabbed and viciously assaulted one officer. With ladders, poles, and others flying from the crowd (Cole says he couldn’t understand how and where the rioters got their hands on such objects), officers desperately tried to defend the Capitol with pepper spray. They appeared to be the only ones who suffered harm from the aerosol.

Infuriatingly so, after DC and Capitol Police finally received assistance from state police officers in Maryland, Virginia, and New Jersey, Trump finally and tepidly asked his supporters to go home as the deadly event finally reaches its conclusion and at, too little, too late, the National Guard arrives

As the credits rolled and the lights came up, the audience grappled with the weight of what they had witnessed. In the words of Mel D. Cole, “For anyone from D.C., this film hits different… It’s just a different day for all of us here.”

The documentary, titled “The Sixth,” not only captured the horror and chaos of that fateful day but also delved deep into the lives of those thrust into

June 11, 2024

DUEL REALITY

Growing up in the early 1990s, Thuso Mbedu never dreamt of being an entertainment figure. At a very young age, she want-

the 2021 TV series ‘The Underground Rail-

drama television series ‘IS’THUNZI’ from

her role ‘Cora Randall’ in the 2021 televi-

‘DSTV Viewers Choice Awards’ and the ‘International Emmy Awards for the ‘Best Performance by an Actress’ for her role ‘Winnie Bhengu’ in the 2016 -2017 television drama series ‘IS’THUNZI.’

In 2018, she won the ‘South African Film and Television Awards’ for ‘ Best Actress – TV Drama’ for her role ‘Winnie Bhengu’ in the 2016 -2017 television drama series ‘IS’THUNZI.’ She was also nominated for the ‘International Emmy Awards for ‘Best Performance by an Actress’ for her role ‘Winnie Bhengu’ in the television drama series ‘IS’THUNZI.’

In 2021, she was nominated for the ‘Television Critics Association Award’ (Individual Achievement in Drama), the

between life and death for me. Receiving that audition brief, I told myself that I would audition like it was my last audition. I gave it the last of everything that I had, that at the time I got the callback, I had nothing left. I secretly made the decision ing left to give. But fortunately, I received cause the role was mine. I had given up. I was in a very dark place at the time, and the character, the role, the opportunity, was a much needed light. And I told myself that I will act as if it was the last character that I will play. And through a great script and an amazing director, I earned two International Emmy Awards for that role…”

Africans by New African Magazine.

of her parents – Thuso is a Sotho name,

Studio of Acting in New York City.

– TV Movie / Limited Series), the ‘Holly-