INNER-CITY NEWS

INNER-CITY NEWS

27, 2016 - August 02, 2016 THE INNER-CITY NEWS - JuneJuly 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Financial Justice a Key at 2016 NAACPHis Convention Malloy Vetoes One, Allows OneFocus To Become Law Without Signature New Haven, Bridgeport

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Malloy Vetoes One, Allows One To Become Law Without His Signature

by Christine Stuart

HARTFORD, CT — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy vetoed bill that would have limited his executive authority and allowed one to become law without his signature Friday.

Before 5 p.m. Friday, Malloy’s office released the veto message.

The bill would have prohibited the governor from cutting education cost sharing grants to towns by using his rescission authority or his ability to reduce funding to an agency.

The bill, “An Act Prohibiting the Executive Branch from Making Rescissions or Other Reductions to the Education Cost Sharing Grant During the Fiscal Year,” passed the House 117 to 32 and the Senate approved it 36 to 0.

It was not immediately clear if lawmakers will return to Hartford to override his veto.

However, Republican lawmakers criticized the decision.

“By not signing this bill Gov. Malloy proves he is nothing more than a partisan political behemoth,” Republican Senate President Len Fasano, said.

“Governor Malloy would rather deny pregnant women and their unborn children the right to basic human decency and access to needed healthcare than sign a bill that Republicans championed with bipartisan support.”

House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, R-Derby, called the move “punitive and spiteful.”

In his veto message, Malloy said it would “prevent any future governor

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE Gov. Dannel P. Malloy in his office in April

from making rescissions to certain municipal grants without regard to communities’ relative need or ability to fund their own spending decisions, and without regard to the seriousness of a financial emergency in the state.”

He also said the legislation favored wealthier towns at the expense of the poorest. Throughout his tenure Malloy has sought to give the neediest cities and towns with underperforming

schools the most resources.

Malloy said the bill was “designed to ensure that gains made by our richest towns are secured forever, at the expense of our neediest communities and their residents. This is not only inequitable and wrong, it is also shortsighted, as it nurtures the vicious cycle of urban fiscal distress that threatens our urban centers with insolvency and leaves them little ability to grow our

economy.”

The legislation was passed by the legislature last month in response to the governor’s decision in November to withhold education funds from towns.

Pregnancy As A Qualifying Event Without his signature, the governor also allowed a bill to become law that would make pregnancy a qualifying life event to allow women to purchase

health insurance.

“As Governor, I have never before allowed a bill to become law without my signature,” Malloy said in a letter.

He said the bill is “undoubtedly admirable in its public policy goal,” but he’s concerned about creating another mandate that will cause insurance premiums to rise.

“This legislation weakens one of the fundamental tenets of our health insurance system, which is the principle of spreading and pooling risk,” Malloy wrote. “Permitting the diagnosis of a health condition to be a triggering event for a special enrollment period has a disproportionate effect on the insurance risk pool, increasing the costs for every single person seeking to purchase insurance in the individual market.”

Malloy said the legislation will increase annual costs an estimated $70 per year, per person, “at a time when too many of our residents still struggle to afford insurance.”

The bill is expected to increase premiums $7 million for individuals who purchase their insurance through Access Health CT, according to Malloy.

He suggested it might have been better to expand the state’s Husky health insurance plan, which already covers women who get pregnant up to 263 percent of the federal poverty level.

The bill received bipartisan support and saw Republican lawmakers team up with groups like Planned Parenthood.

HUD Secretary to Visit ‘Crumbling Foundation’ Home

by Peter Urban

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson plans to visit a Willington home on Monday to inspect severe cracks in the foundation caused by pyrrhotite, a mineral that expands with moisture.

Carson will be joined at the home of Maggie and Vincent Perracchio

by Connecticut Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal and Representative Joe Courtney.

The lawmakers have been working with the Trump administration to help dozens of families in central and eastern Connecticut whose homes used concrete from a now-closed quarry in Willington that contained pyrrhotite.

Murphy invited Carson to visit Connecticut to see the damage and hear firsthand from homeowners.

He and Blumenthal have introduced legislation to provide up to $100 million over five years from HUD to states that have created programs to help damage to residential structures from crumbling foundations.

More than 635 homeowners have reported the problem to the state Department of Consumer Protection, but the problem is thought to be much bigger and some say it could impact as many as 30,000 homes.

Homeowners have been hesitant to come forward because the problem could mean their home is worthless and many don’t have the $150,000 to $200,000 it would take to replace the foundation. Repairing the foundations is not an option — they must be replaced.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Biotech Biz Pushes For Fed Increases

by MARKESHIA RICKS NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Recruit and retain scientists. Attract more venture capital money. Start more businesses. Develop more treatments and cures for diseases.

Those are some of the ways that New Haven that bioscience and biotechnology companies would like to spend money if Congress gives the National Institutes of Health more funding.

More than 30 captains of New Haven’s biomedical industry gathered at the 5 Science Park offices of Arvinas, a biopharmaceutical company, Wednesday to tell U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy how that funding benefits the cause of medical research and the local economy.

Murphy is a member of the health subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, which writes the budget for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). As Congress prepares to put together the 2018-2019 budget, Murphy saidm he plans to fight for further increases for the NIH. Since the mid-to-late 1990s, the NIH’s budget has grown from about $10 billion to $37 billion. But Murphy said that hasn’t been a sustained, consistent growth. Years of slow growth, followed by major investments during the Clinton and Bush administrations, followed smaller increases. He noted that Connecticut received $523 million in NIH grants in 2017.

Arvinas founder Craig Crews said that when he started his company the NIH

MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO

Arvinas founder Craig Crews and Murphy talk about federal funding Wednesday.

wasn’t willing to take a risk on his work.

When the NIH’s budget expanded so did its risk tolerance, and he got funded.

“You can see what has resulted from that,” he said. The growing company, which started out of Crews’ lab at Yale University, is now on track to employ more than 85 people. The company, which develops cancer drugs, also has been able to snag licensing deals with pharmaceutical companies and has raised $110 million in venture financing.

“There is this delta between medium risk and no risk. I’m afraid if we continue to have a flat budget the future of our industry is not going to be funded,”

Crews said. Government grants can help a company take the next, often higher risk steps in the research and development process of making a medical breakthrough, creating a new drug, or designing a new medical device.

Jon Soderstrom, managing director of the Office of Cooperative Research at Yale, said that in the last decade about 50 venture-backed startups have been created in New Haven. Those startups have attracted over $1 billion in professional venture capital and more than $3 billion or $4 billion when you look at all capital. But this couldn’t have happened without funding along the

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way from the NIH and also the federal Small Business Administration’s Small Business Innovation Research program, which encourages small businesses to conduct federal research and engage in research and development.

“It is the engine that is driving the New Haven economy right now,” he said.

“What we saw when the NIH budget flattened out, so did we. There was a bit of a lag effect but it flattens and our economy flattens with it.”

State Rep. Lonnie Reed of Branford, who served as the House Chair of the Energy & Technology Committee and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Life Sciences Caucus, said that NIH funding is often critical in keeping a startup from going out of business as it awaits follow-along funds from the state and pursues venture capital money.

She said what the state has going for it is that the scientists in the state tend to work together to pursue NIH grants, rather than individual scientists competing against each other for the same pot of money.

“They’ve really professionalized their approach,” she said.

Richard Torres of the startup Applikate Technologies said that NIH funding makes the difference in whether people go into research or stay in more limited

fields of academia. He said the SBIR program funds collaborations between industry and academia which leads to the hiring of engineers, designers, who all live and work in communities throughout the state.

Another participant noted that those funds support graduate students who also live in cities like New Haven where they rent apartments and shop in local stores. Torres said he secured grants from NIH that helped him cover the cost of his education and stay on the research path.

Murphy said that only in the last two years has Congress been able to provide consistent 6 and 7 percent increases, which moves the NIH budget beyond the range of medical inflation. That’s a hard precedent to sustain, he warned, but he promised to keep trying “You are robbing Peter to pay Paul,” he said. “You have a budget cap that applies to all non-defense discretionary spending. If you want to continue to get high, single-digit increase for NIH funding, you have to take that money from somewhere else. Inside the nondefense discretionary side, this is one of the places where we do have bipartisan consensus and so we continue to capitalize on it.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Food Truck Fest Fills Long Wharf

by SERENA CHO

needed to make the ice cream.

Roger Jaruchaiyakul, from the Thai Taste food truck, said he’s hoping all the business he attracted Saturday will spill over.

He attributed the brisk sales to two factors: “We were the only Thai food truck there.” And “we have huge windows where people can see how the food is made.” “So many people were surprised by how good Thai food was at the event, and I think our food truck will do even better over the summer.”

According to John Pescatore, a coach from Canal Dock Boathouse, the dragon boat races needed to start in the middle of the day when the tide was high enough and the water deep enough. A dragon boat is a 40-foot canoe with 20 paddlers, a drummer who maintains the cadence and a steers-person. The early race gave participants – many of whom are part of city community organizations and major employers in town – time to spend more time visiting the food trucks and beer tents, Pescatore said.

Three boats raced against each other at a time, with the three top performing teams competing at the championship round at the end. In addition to the New Haven Dragon Boat Regatta Trophy, the Canal Dock Boathouse also awarded participating teams for best team song and cheer, best drummer costume and best campsite.

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

New Haven held its largest food truck festival yet at Long Wharf Pier last Saturday with 50 food trucks and a dragon boat regatta along the Quinnipiac River.

The fourth annual event began at noon with the annual Dragon Boat Regatta. Deputy Economic Development Administrator Steve Fontana announced the start of the race and congratulated event organizer Aidan Charles of the Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program. On top of the regatta, the festival featured food trucks serving delicious snacks from lobster rolls to Italian ice and live performances from local bands, including Caribbean Vibe Steel band, Sez Zion Jazz Band and The Bossa Nova Project.

The 50 food trucks – including Antojos Criollos, Belgian Bus, Boothbay Lobster Co., Drewba Q, Ixtapa Taco’s Truck, Lucky Dog, Milkcraft, Szabo’s Seafood, Thai Taste Food Truck and What is Real? Ice Cream —were lined up along Long Wharf Drive.

“The food truck festival and the dragon boat regatta were organized to help celebrate the city’s beautiful shoreline and its maritime heritage,” said mayoral Laurence Grotheer. “In addition, the dragon boat races drew attention to one of New Haven’s new and prominent features, which is the canal dock boathouse.”

Charles said that the food trucks hailed from all over the state, including Stamford, Norwich and Hartford. The number of participating food trucks doubled from last year last year, and 12,000 people attended the event throughout the day, Charles said.

Thomas Nguyes said he and his friends were drawn to attend the festival by food trucks selling “cool things that people don’t regularly eat.” Like the ice cream in waffe bubblcones for sale at the Milkcraft truck and Chompers’ deep fried balls of ground meat and cheese, two of the biggest draws of the day.

“Bubble cone is a cool thing that no other company in New Haven makes,” said Milkcraft General Manager Seth Amado. The afternoon heat helped draw customers as well. By the evening, the Milkcraft food truck ran out of liquid nitrogen

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Deputy Economic Development Administrator Steve Fontana and Canal Dock Boathouse Coach John Pescatore announced the start of the regatta.

SERENA CHO PHOTO

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Fashion Designer Neville Wisdom Opens on Chapel Street at The Shops at Yale

NEW HAVEN, CT – Yale University Properties held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at 2:00pm to welcome Neville Wisdom Fashions to The Shops at Yale in the Chapel Street Historic District. The ceremony took place at 1090 Chapel Street, next to The Juice Box and Atticus Bookstore & Café. Mayor Toni Harp joined the ceremony.

Owner and New Haven resident Neville Wisdom was born and raised in Jamaica where he taught himself the basics of making practical clothing before being mentored by a local designer who introduced him to women’s fashions. In 2000 he came to Connecticut and trained to be a surgical technician, which landed him a job in New Haven at Yale New Haven Hospital. Several years later Neville, against the advice of family and friends, decided to pursue his dream of becoming a top fashion designer and opened his first shop in the Westville section of New Haven in 2007. All Neville Wisdom clothing is made in their Westville location.

He quickly made a name for himself and now makes custom clothing for a local and loyal following of women and men. Clients have included Mayor Toni Harp, WTNH’s anchor Anne

Nyberg and reporter Scott McDonald, Sue Fitzsimons, (former Senior Vice President of Yale New Haven Hospital), Ena Williams (Neville’s sister & current Senior Vice President of Yale New Haven Hospital) and many others.

Neville Wisdom Fashions uses only premium fabrics and materials to create their unique lines. Additionally, Neville offers custom design services, tailoring/alteration services, classes, a design incubator, and consulting, where those interested in a career in fashion can work alongside him and receive one-on-one advice.

“I am happy to be in downtown New Haven,” said Neville Wisdom, owner of Neville Wisdom Fashions. “The Chapel Street Historic District is a good fit for my business. Opening a store in the district allows me to be in front of my customer base daily and I am able to meet new clients to expand.

I like the vibe of downtown New Haven.” added Neville.

“We are delighted to work with Neville as he expands his business,” said Lauren Zucker, Yale University Associate Vice President for New Haven Affairs and University Properties.

“Yale University’s Community Invest-

Parking Ample parking for The Shops at Yale is available at four convenient surface parking lots adjacent to stores and restaurants —255 Crown Street, 161 York Street, 56 Broadway and 40 Dixwell Avenue. Directions can be found at TheShopsatYale.com/Parking.

On-street parking is available throughout the city, with the ability to accept payment through credit cards or mobile app.

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ment Program supports the growth of independently-owned local businesses, reinvigorating New Haven’s downtown and expanding the city’s tax base.”

The Shops at Yale is made up of the Chapel Street Historic and Broadway Districts in New Haven and it includes a mix of retailers and restaurants, such as Apple, J.Crew, GANT, Derek Simpson Goldsmith, Union League Café, Midpoint Istanbul Restaurant, Shake Shack, and Yurway Boutique.

Yale University Properties manages Yale University’s commercial properties, including retail stores, office spaces, and residential units in New Haven. Enabled by Yale’s community investment program, University Properties is committed to enhancing the quality of life in New Haven through the development of high quality retail and office environments and the revitalization of surrounding neighborhoods. As a result of University Properties’ community investment program, Yale University is one of the largest taxpayers in the city of New Haven. Learn more at TheShopsatYale.com and ONHSA.Yale.edu.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Brighter Nights Loom For Parking Garages

by PAUL BASS

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Two forbidding downtown concrete parking garages will get brighter lights as part of a $5 million state grant approved Friday.

The Malloy administration put the $5 million grant request for New Haven garage improvements on the agenda of Friday’s Bond Commission, which voted to approve it.

Much of the $5 million will enable the parking authority to pay for replacing the old lighting systems at the Crown Street and Temple Street garages with “bright, inviting and energy-saving LED light fixtures” as well as an emergency lighting system (at Temple Street), according to a submission prepared by the city.

Another $1.7 million of the grant will pay for “concrete repairs and waterproofing and other miscellaneous repairs” at the 708-space Crown garage, which was built in 1971, and the 1,235-space Temple garage, constructed in 1962.

“It’s high time that we get this done,” said Town Green Special Services District Executive Director Win Davis. “Temple Street Garage has had the same lighting since the 1980s, orangey high-pressure sodium lighting. It really does not illuminate the garage to a level that makes people feel safe.”

Because most parking is off-street in the city’s central commercial district, Davis said, “people feeling comfortable parking in those garages is crucial to the economic success of downtown New Haven.”

“Investing in these kinds of infrastructure improvement projects will allow

our city to continue attract people to our local businesses and grow our economy,” State Senate President Pro Ten Martin Looney said in a release issued after Friday’s vote.

Mayor Toni Harp has been asking for the state for $40 million for overall improvements, much of that for upgrading the Air Rights Garage, which the city owns in conjunction with Yale-New Haven Hospital. Part of the idea is that an upgraded Air Rights garage would provide more annual payments in lieu of taxes to city government’s depleted coffers. The city currently takes in about $1.5 million a year from those payments.

State budget chief Ben Barnes told the Independent that the Malloy administration decided to cap requests from cities at $5 million for Friday’s Bond Commission Agenda. That’s because the Urban Act fund out of which these requests will be funded had only $20 million in it overall for the fiscal year ending June 30, with “hundreds of millions of dollars” of asks from communities statewide, he said.

After July 1 another $100 million becomes available under the act, Barnes said. So at that point “I’m willing to consider more” of Harp’s overall requests for New Haven garage improvements.

“It’s the final year of the [Malloy] administration. We’d like to make sure we leave cities in good shape,” Barnes said.

Also at Friday’s meeting, the Bond Commission approved $500,000 for a study about how to connect New Haven’s port to freight rail.

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Cross Senior Takes Science To New Level

by ALLISON PARK

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Wilbur Cross High School senior Maya Geradi started her science career under her kitchen table with materials she ordered online.

“It was the only area that wasn’t carpeted,” exclaimed when asked about the area that served as her unconventional, do-it-herself lab from her seventh grade to sophomore year of high school.

Little did she know it would lead her on the path to conducting groundbreaking work—at least for someone her age—and researching in Yale University’s science labs, where she’ll be enrolled in the fall. On a rainy Monday morning at Wilbur Cross High School, Geradi received an official citation from New Haven’s state delegation for her scientific accomplishments.

The event drew State Sen. Gary Winfield and State Rep. Robyn Porter as well as several Wilbur Cross High School administrators and many of Geradi’s high school science teachers.

Winfield said that he wants to “make sure students get recognized” for their accomplishments in the community and heralded Geradi’s decision to stay in New Haven for the next four years.

Geradi is undeniably a star student.

As valedictorian with a sky-high 4.92-grade point average, she balanced a rigorous workload of six Advanced Placement (AP) courses last year alone, several college courses at Yale, and three independent studies courses, all while conducting research and pursuing ambitious science projects.

“She really comes alive [in science class],” AP Chemistry teacher Bernard Hulin said. According to Hulin, she is one of two seniors in the school to take all four AP science classes offered and performed “graduate level work” in chemistry. Impressed by Geradi’s work and ability to learn new concepts almost instantaneously, he invited her to be the teaching assistant for his class.

Geradi received all A’s in every science course throughout her time at Wilbur Cross High School and has been a recipient of numerous first place prizes since 2012 in the New Haven Science Fair and Connecticut State Science Fair, as well as prizes in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. She also has received the H. Joseph Gerber Medal of Excellence.

“I’m really humbled and honored,” Geradi said upon receiving her award.

She said her teachers were a “huge

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Geradi sits with her mother and AP Chemistry teacher during an award ceremony Monday.

ALLISON PARK PHOTO

Geradi with Winfield, Porter, and her parents.

source of encouragement” and her “first source of inspiration for all [her] projects.”

These critically-acclaimed projects flow along her interest in chemistry and environmental engineering, with Geradi developing wastewater purification models and using Circadian genetics to increase crop yield.

Geradi isn’t just a science junkie.

When she’s not developing a radiotracer that can help PET scans detect early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, she plays the flute in the school’s wind ensemble and marching band, where she also serves as the director’s assistant.

“I’m very happy and thankful,” Nary Sudarsan, Geradi’s father, said. He gave credit to Geradi’s middle school

program for giving her a strong foundation in research pursuit by requiring all students to participate in “mandatory projects”, with “no exceptions.”

In the community, Geradi volunteers at Science Outreach Programs, which sparked her initial interest in science as a child. She said the Yale outreach program inspired her to pursue her dreams as a scientist and researcher and she looks forward being involved in the community initiative during her time at Yale.

Geradi has an exciting future ahead of her in the upcoming year, full of graduation gowns and freshman firsts.

Whether it’s for novel research discoveries or distinguished honor awards, Geradi will be a name to remember in New Haven and beyond.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Annual Gala to Honor Denise L. Nappier, Jonathan Bruce, and Alvin B. Carter, Jr.

Juneteenth Events celebrate Strength in Community and The Evolution of Emancipation June 9th & 15th

The Amistad Center for Art & Culture will present two days of celebratory activities to recognize Juneteenth. The first event will be Juneteenth Family Day on Saturday, June 9, 2018 in partnership with the Wadsworth Atheneum.

The theme connecting this year’s family friendly activities and performances is Strength in Community. Activities are scheduled from 10AM- 5PM at the Atheneum. Juneteenth Family Day is sponsored by The Hartford. The Amistad Center’s annual black-tie Juneteenth Celebration Gala will be Friday, June 15, 2018 at The Wadsworth. The 2018 Spirit of Juneteenth Award recipients, who will be honored that evening, are Connecticut State Treasurer Denise L. Nappier, arts administrator Jonathan Bruce, and the musician and producer Alvin B. Carter, Jr. “Juneteenth is a unique celebration connecting history and culture inspired

by African American experience,” said Amistad Center Executive Director Frank Mitchell. “This programming reflects the core elements of our mission.

The volunteer committee has reimagined the event to highlight the migration journey that brought so many of our relatives to this area. Our current exhi-

Denise L. Nappier

bition Pictures, Words & Music also explores that evolution but through portraiture. It is always exciting to share these resources for Family Day and the Gala. We are grateful for the support we receive from the corporate community and individuals across this region.’’

Juneteenth’s genesis is June 19, 1865, when the enslaved in Texas finally

learned of their freedom conveyed through the General Orders, Number 3 document. Though the Emancipation Proclamation actually granted freedom two and a half years earlier, the June 1865 announcement in Galveston brought freedom to many enslaved Black Texans. As Texans moved across the country they established Juneteenth

programs all over America. The Amistad Center has nearly 30 years of history associated with this celebration.

The evening begins with a 7PM reception for premier ticketholders where the Spirit of Juneteenth honorees will be recognized. Lorenzo Hall of Fox 61 is the Master of Ceremonies. From 8 PM until midnight guests will enjoy the music of DJ Ronn P and DJ Dane in the Gengras Court. A buffet inspired by the culinary traditions of Texas, Illinois, New York, and New England will be served. And to capture the evening’s festivities, LottaStudio has designed a themed photo booth installation. Several performances will punctuate the evening. Proceeds from the Juneteenth Gala benefit The Amistad Center’s culture-based education programs as well as collections preservation.

The 2018 Spirit of Juneteenth Award recipients: Denise L. Nappier was elected Connecticut State Treasurer in 1998 and reelected four times. Treasurer Nappier is the principal fiduciary of the $34 billion Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds and oversees the $24 billion debt management program and the $5 billion

Short- Term Investment Fund. A strong advocate for diversity and expanding economic opportunity, Treasurer Nappier has a record of promoting opportunity for women and minority-owned, Connecticut-based, and emerging firms to earn business with her office, as well as long-standing majority-owned firms with a demonstrated commitment to improving inclusiveness.

Throughout her administration, Treasurer Nappier has served as a catalyst and advocate for financial education, asset-building strategies and other forms of empowerment. She was a driving force behind the YWCA annual Money Conference for Women which is now in its sixteenth year. Changes implemented by Nappier to the Connecticut Higher Education Trust have made it one of the nation’s most accessible and affordable college savings programs. The first African-American woman elected to serve as a State Treasurer in the United States and the first African-American woman elected to a statewide office in Connecticut, Treasurer Nappier is the only woman to be elected Treasurer in Connecticut hisCon’t on page 10

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

U.S. Interior Department Set To Green Light Tribal Amendment

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Artist

rendering of East Windsor casino

by Christine Stuart

HARTFORD, CT — It’s taken more than a year, a lawsuit, and an investigation, but the U.S. Department of Interior is expected to green light changes to the tribal gaming compact that will allow an East Windsor casino to move forward.

The notice for changes to the Mohegan Tribal Nation’s compact with Connecticut is expected to be published Friday in the Federal Register.

“The Secretary took no action on the Amendment to the compact between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the State of Connecticut within 45 days of its submission.

Therefore, the Amendment is considered to have been approved, but only to the extent the Amendment is consistent with IGRA,” the draft language reads.

IGRA is the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. “We are pleased that the department is taking this step and we expect similar action on the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal amendments in the very near future,” Andrew Doba, a spokesman for MMCT the joint tribal venture, said. “Our goal has never changed. We want to do right by Connecticut and to preserve the strong relationship between our tribal nations and the state.

Today’s decision is the latest step in our overall goal to preserve thousands of good paying jobs and millions in state tax revenue.”

The two tribes submitted the amendments to their agreements with the state to the Interior Department last July. In November, the state of Con-

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necticut and the two tribes sued the Interior Department to force them to issue a ruling.

That lawsuit contended that because the federal agency did not act on the amendments within 45 days of their submission, as required under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the amendments are deemed approved by the operation of law and the court should require the department to publish notice of their approval in the Federal Register — a final step in the process.

The amendment the tribes submitted in July allows the two tribes to share slot revenue with the state of Connecticut under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. IGRA requires the secretary to publish a notice of the approval — whether it is an affirmative approval or a deemed approval — in the Federal Register within 90 days of the date the amendments were received by the federal agency.

As recently as this April, the Interior’s inspector general began investigating the department’s handling of the tribes’ casino application after Connecticut lawmakers asked the internal watchdog to look into the matter, according to Politico.

U.S. Sens. Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal were concerned that the agency’s inaction on the amendments followed lobbying campaign from MGM Resorts International, which is set to open a casino in Springfield, Mass. this summer.

The East Windsor casino is being built by the two federally recognized tribes in an effort to compete with

MGM’s Springfield casino, a few miles from the Connecticut border.

MGM was unsuccessful in getting Connecticut to open its bidding process for a fourth casino in Bridgeport.

The legislation passed the House by five votes, but stalled on the Senate calendar.

In a statement Thursday, MGM said it the decision to print the notice in the Federal Register “raises more questions than it answers. The notice provides no supporting reasoning and contradicts not only the Interior Department’s prior ruling, but also the clear limits on off-reservation gaming imposed by federal law.”

They added: A”fter consulting with our attorneys, we can find no legal justification for the Interior Department’s unprecedented action. In an effort to shed light on these serious legal questions, MGM will file a Freedom of Information Act request to uncover the process and inputs that led to today’s notice.”

MGM said it remained committed to “a transparent process that would give all parties an equal opportunity to compete in Connecticut. We believe our proposed world-class entertainment complex in Bridgeport is the best option for creating new jobs and revenue, and we will vigorously advocate for our legal rights—including by challenging Public Act 17-89’s unconstitutional no-bid scheme— if that is what it takes to prevail.”

Earlier this week when MGM announced it had purchased the Empire City Casino in Yonkers, New York, it said in a statement it was still interested in a Bridgeport casino.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Freddy Puts “Neighbor” Back In “Neighborhood”

by THOMAS BREEN

NEW HAVEN INDEPENDENT

Thousands of New Haveners lined the street in Dixwell and Newhallville Sunday afternoon for a parade that has been marching through the city’s historic African American neighborhoods and bringing pride for over half a century.

They lined Dixwell Avenue to watch, dance, and cheer to the annual Elm City Freddy Fixer Parade. The parade, which had been rescheduled from a few weeks ago due to an initial rain out, featured 55 units and around 900 participants, including high school drill teams, drum lines, horseback riders, brewery founders, health clinic operators, and local and state politicians.

True to the decades-long history of the annual parade, which grew out of a local black community clean-up in 1962, this year’s Freddy Fixer brought together New Haveners across generations and professional and economic backgrounds to celebrate the proud, rich, diverse cultural heritage of African Americans.

“The theme for this year’s parade is putting the ‘neighbor’ back in ‘neighborhood,” said Petisia Adger (pictured), the new president of the Elm City Freddy Fixer Parade Committee. Adger, a retired assistant chief of the New Haven Police Department, is a two-time former organizer of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Adger said the parade is not only about celebrating the unique musical, dance, and

THOMAS BREEN PHOTO

Fusion Steppers drill team stomp it at Freddy Fixer Parade.

cultural heritage of African Americans. It is also about reminding the black community of its own collective knowledge and

self-sufficiency, of holding up the black doctors and lawyers and teachers and librarians who grew up in and still serve

Dixwell and Newhallville.

“Everything we need in the black community is all right here,” she said.

Before the official start of the parade just after noon, Adger and the parade’s vice president, Dixwell Stetson Branch Librarian Diane X. Brown (at left in photo), corralled the dozens of group participants to their starting positions near the intersection of Bassett Street and Dixwell Avenue.

Adger and Brown warmed up by practicing their step routine with Waterbury’s Berkeley Knights drill team. “I could do this for a minute,” Brown said with a smile as she raised her right arm, marched in step, and led the group’s evenly-filed turn onto Dixwell.

“I grew up with Freddy Fixer,” Brown, who is 60, said about the parade. “It’s the history of my people.”

At the other corner of Dixwell and Bassett, drillmaster Eric Green walked the Blue Steel drumline (pictured) through the carefully choreographed beats and moves they would be performing during the parade in just a few minutes.

“You are the best company out here,” he shouted towards the fired-up team of drummers clutching at their bass drums. “Now start acting like it.”

The parade was led by New Haven Fire Chief John Alston, Jr. (pictured), who served as this year’s Freddy Fixer Grand Marshall.

Alston said he was honored to have an opportunity to shine a light on the fire de-

partment, which provided a contingent that marched closely behind him. He called the parade an opportunity for public servants and Dixwell and Newhallville residents to see each other’s faces on a positive, celebratory occasion rather than during a public safety emergency.

The King/Robinson Inter-District Magnet School Marching Jaguar Band (pictured) followed with horns blaring and cymbals crashing, propelling the front of the parade on with a charging, energetic beat. Behind them came dozens of city officials, ranging from Mayor Toni Harp and Police Chief Anthony Campbell to over a dozen alders from throughout the city.

“This parade means community, love, neighborhood, and a time for us all to come together,” said Dixwell Alder Jeannette Morrison (picturerd). She said she first marched in the Freddy Fixer parade as a child as part of the Phoenix drill team.

Her second time in the parade was as a teenager, when she served as the captain of Hillhouse High School’s cheerleading team. Now she walks proudly in the parade as an alder representing Dixwell, she said.

As the parade worked its way down Dixwell Avenue, the crowds sitting and standing along the side of the road got fuller and fuller with onlookers.

Stamford Rep. William Tong, who is vying for state attorney general, and Newtown labor organizer Eva Bermudez Zimmerman, who is running for the state Con’t on page

Family ReEntry Serves as CT Partner for Nigerian Musician/Prison Reformer Lamboginny’s Concert in Weston,

Lamboginny, Nigerian recording artist and prison reformer, is slated to perform for the first time in the United States, as the headliner for a benefit concert on June 9, 2018, 7 pm at Norfield Congregational Church, 64 Norfield Road, Weston, CT. Information and tickets at Norfield.org.

Lamboginny is the Nigeria-born singer, whose music is rooted in a Jamaican Reggae style and integrated with elements of West African music known as Afrobeat. His music is a popular radiofriendly style that contains inspirational and memorable sing-along choruses and thought-provoking lyrics.

Since he began performing, Lamboginny has been using his talents to spread the message of supporting troubled youths who are trying to make positive changes. He founded Saving All Lives Together (SALT), a movement that raises money to provide music therapy to the prison population, and more importantly, to pay legal costs of young people who have been wrongly incarcerated or cannot pay fines for petty infractions like street begging. Further, Lamboginny gained considerably greater popularity when he began booking performances for

the inmates at the prisons in Africa.

He is now the first official Music Ambassador to the Nigerian Prison Service Lamboginny’s music has a crossover appeal to multiple age ranges as evidenced by the double performance showcase in Weston on June 9th. Lamboginny will have an early performance at the Norfield Congregational Church (64 Norfield Road, Weston) from 11:30-1pm for Children & Seniors, followed by an all ages evening concert from 7pm to 9pm. An

eight-piece band from Bridgeport will accompany Lamboginny.

The free admission concert asks that attendees can volunteering consider donating funds that will go toward supporting imprisoned Nigerian youths. Lamboginny specifically sited that there was a desperate need to construct and stock libraries in Nigerian youth prisons.

“We’re thrilled to assist in hosting Lamboginny’s visit to the U.S.,” Grant added. “He has given of himself freely to the betterment of youths incarcerat-

9

ed in prisons in Lagos and other areas of Nigeria with in-prison concerts and talks. He’s an important international voice who is making a major impact on society.”

Recently, Lamboginny’s rising popularity was the topic of international news when he was featured on CNN and the BBC. About Lamboginny: Born Yinka Lawanson in the mid80s, Lamboginny grew up in Lagos, Nigeria. In his early twenties, Lamboginny was inspired by artists like the late Bob Marley and Afrobeat

music creator “Fela Anikulapo Kuti” who used their voices and music for more than entertainment. An opportunity to serve arrived in October 15, 2009 when a friend paved the way for Lamboginny’s first prison concert.

“Prisons permit pastors and teachers to minister to the inmates, but what about musicians? When I saw their hope after hearing my music, I knew then that I’d found my purpose,” Lamboginny said.

To date, Lamboginny has performed more than a dozen prison concerts and has arranged for the release of 120 young Africans. With funds that he raises through his performances and record sales, he works to reintegrate released inmates into society, to find them jobs, and to provide vocational workshops to juvenile offenders still in prison.

Lamboginny is known for his hit song “Say No To Crime” featuring Nigeria All Stars, Gbaladun with Olamide and I Believe in Africa. His current album, SALT, has garnered great reviews and is available on iTunes. Concert footage can be seen on YouTube

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

HazWaste Central Open for the Season Working with Communities to Protect Our Water Sources

SAFE & FREE DISPOSAL OF HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS

SATURDAYS ONLY, 9 AM–NOON THROUGH OCT. 27, 2018 HazWaste Central is for residents of these participating towns: Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Fairfield, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Meriden, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Wallingford, West Haven, Woodbridge.

CLOSED HOLIDAY WEEKENDS OF JULY 7 AND SEPT. 1, 2018

Residential Waste Only

PARTIAL LIST OF WHAT TO BRING TO HAZWASTE CENTRAL Visit www.rwater.com/hazwaste for a complete list.

KITCHEN & BATHROOM Aerosols

Floor Care Products

Nail Polish Remover

Bathroom Cleaners

Metal & Furniture Polish

Oven, Drain, Tile Cleaners

GARAGE & WORKSHOP Antifreeze Auto Batteries Auto Body Repair Products

Brake & Transmission Fluid Gasoline Latex & Oil-Based Paints*

Paint Thinner & Stripper Used Motor Oil* Varnish

GARDEN & MISCELLANEOUS Batteries* Chemical Fertilizer Fluorescent Bulbs (Including CFL type)*

Fungicides, Pesticides Herbicides, Insecticides Mercury & MercuryContaining Items

Photographic Chemicals Swimming Pool Chemicals Small (1 Pound) Propane Cylinders

NO ELECTRONICS OR GAS GRILL-SIZE PROPANE TANKS Do not mix items or remove from their original package. * Local disposal options may be available. Please check with your public works department, local transfer station or the following resources: Batteries: call 1-800-8-BATTERY or log on to www.call2recycle.org (excluding alkaline and auto batteries).

Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Bulbs: call 1-800-CLEANUP or log on to www.earth911.com.

Paint: log on to www.paintcare.org and visit the Connecticut portion of the site to find a drop-off location for household paint.

Small Businesses: Call 203-401-2712 for Disposal Information FOR MORE INFORMATION

visit www.rwater.com/hazwaste or call 203-401-2712 Located at the Regional Water Authority, 90 Sargent Drive, New Haven, I-95 exit 46.

Malloy Issues Warning

Con’t from page 7

Juneteenth Events

In Signing Health Insurance Bills celebrate Strength

by Christine Stuart CT. Junkie News

HARTFORD, CT — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy signed two pieces of legislation Friday that he said were well intentioned, but will come with a cost to the state.

One of the bills will mandate coverage of the 10 essential health benefits, if Congress decides to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The other mandates insurance coverage of prosthetic devices.

“While these two pieces of legislation will help ensure some citizens of Connecticut have access to important medical care, protection of these services is meaningless if our citizens cannot afford insurance coverage in the first place,” Malloy wrote in a letter accompanying the legislation.

Malloy acknowledged that the Affordable Care Act is under attack by the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress, but “policy makers must focus on maintaining access to needed care while protecting consumers from these rising costs.”

He said adding new benefits without the aid of a full actuarial cost analysis will lead to “increased burdens on our already strained consumers.”

“The mandates in these two bills along will require the state to pay at least $2 million each year,” Malloy said.

The budget he signed into law does not include money for that purpose so he’s asked his budget office to identify ways to offset the cost, which was an estimate his office received from the insurance industry.

The fiscal note for the bill requiring coverage of prosthetic devices said it would cost the state up to $600,000 in 2019 and $1.2 million in 2020. The amendment that would have eliminated the fiscal note never got called.

There should be no impact to the bill

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEW JUNKIE

Dannel P. Malloy

Gov.

mandating coverage of the 10 essential health benefits, according to lawmakers.

Rep. Sean Scanlon, D-Guilford, who championed the 10 essential health benefits said during the debate that it won’t impact insurance rates because these benefits are already covered by insurance plans.

The legislation would apply to fully-insured plans. It would not impact self-insured plans like the one the state and large employers use. Several lawmakers talked about how guilty they feel about paying so little for such good health benefits.

The essential health benefits protected under the bill include ambulatory patient services; emergency services; hospitalization; maternity and newborn health care; mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment; prescription drugs; rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices; laboratory services; preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management; and pediatric services, including oral and vision care.

For more information on ACES schools, programs and services, please visit our website.

(203) 498-6800 | www.aces.org

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tory.

Jonathan Bruce directed the Fine Arts program for the Community Renewal Team of Greater Hartford, Inc. and established the CRT’s Craftery Gallery.

He was Artistic Director of the Huntington House Museum, and retired as an Arts Educator from the City of Hartford. He is a graduate of the University of Hartford Art School. Jonathan has received numerous commendations for both his community service and his commitment to the visual arts; they include the Cicuso Club Community Service Award, the Distinguished Alumni Award for Contributions to the Community, University of Hartford, Community Service Award, Hartford Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the History Maker Honors Award, The Dr. John E. Rogers African American Cultural Center. He has been a member of the Board of Electors for the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, a board member of the Benny Andrews Foundation, Inc. and has served as a Commissioner for the State of Connecticut African American Affairs Commission.

Alvin B. Carter, Jr. has been the drummer with the Afro-Semitic Experience, Tony Harrington and Touch and People of Goodwill. His collective, The Alvin Carter Project, regularly performs around the region and has regularly supported Juneteenth programming.

Known as “Babafemi” to his friends, his diverse music experience includes jazz, R&B, blues, Latin jazz, gospel, and world beat. He is also a lead drummer for Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium, where he plays West Afrikan and Afro Caribbean drums. Alvin is also an in-demand stage and production manager, at events such as The Litchfield Jazz Festival, The Wesleyan Folk Music Festival, The Sigourney Square Festival, Family Day at Keney Park, and The Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz.

The Amistad Center for Art & Culture, founded in 1987, owns and exhibits a collection of art, artifacts and popular culture objects that documents the experience of people of African descent in America. The Amistad Center is an independently incorporated and managed not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization, located in the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. It is a participant in a unique institutional partnership that facilitates rich cross-cultural conversations between art and audiences.

For further information on The Amistad Center, call 860-838-4133 or email springle@amistadcenter.org.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

“Commissioner Mullins Youth Leadership Award" to West Haven High School Students

West Haven Planning and Zoning Commissioner Steven R. Mullins presented the "Commissioner Mullins Youth Leadership Award" to West Haven High School freshmen Tejean Campbell and Farah Najarah.

The award is presented every spring to two freshmen that have demonstrated leadership qualities at West Haven High School and the wider West Haven community. The students are chosen by the freshmen faculty advisors and principal. The each student received a certificate of achievement, a copy of the United States Constitution and Declaration of Independence and a $25.00 to Barnes and Noble.

West Haven Planning and Zoning Commissioner Steven R. Mullins presents the "Commissioner Mullins Youth Leadership Award" to West Haven High School freshman Tejean Campbell as his father Carlington Campbell and Assistant Principal Dana Paredes look on.

Questions about your bill?

Yale New Haven Hospital is pleased to offer patients and their families financial counseling regarding their hospital bills or the availability of financial assistance, including free care funds.

West Haven Planning and Zoning Commissioner Steven R. Mullins presents the "Commissioner Mullins Youth Leadership Award" to West Haven High School freshman Farah Najarah as Assistant Principal John Dellacamera looks on.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority invites public to annual “Free Market” and Health Symposium New Haven, CT, June 6, 2018 - The Delta Academy and GEMS youth program sponsored by the New Haven Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will host its 8th annual “Free Market” where community members can obtain free items such as clothing, accessories, household items, jewelry, toys, coats, shoes and more!

The free market will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2018 from 9 am to 2 pm at the Elks Club, 87 Webster Street in New Haven.

In addition, the chapter will simultaneously host a health symposium where health experts will be on hand offering im-

portant information on maintaining good physical and dental health and perform free blood pressure screenings to visitors.

The event is presented in partnership with the Epsilon Iota Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Community sponsors include Yale New Haven Health, Yale African American Affinity Group, The Prosperity Foundation and the Delta Foundation of Greater New Haven.

For more information about the Free Market and Health Symposium, call 203-450NHAC(6422) or email programs@nhac. org.

By appointment, patients can speak one-on-one with a financial counselor during regular business hours. For your convenience, extended hours are available once a month.

Date: Monday, June 18 Time: 5 - 7 pm Location: Children’s Hospital, 1 Park St., 1st Floor, Admitting Parking available (handicapped accessible) An appointment is necessary. Please call 203-688-2046.

Spanish-speaking counselors available.

12929 (11/17)

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Trails Day Comes To Newhallville THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

by Lucy Gellman, The Arts Paper

Newhallville’s section of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail may not look like New York City’s High-Line yet—but it may start to if the community gets more runners, bikers, recreational walkers, and public artists on the path.

Saturday morning, that call for increased usage underscored the first CT Trails Day along the Newhallville Learning Corridor, where the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail intersects with Starr Street, Hazel Street, and Shelton Avenue. From morning to mid-afternoon, close to 40 walkers and bikers from across the region came out for the festivities, which included bike rides and guided tours of the area.

While both National Trails Day and its smaller Connecticut arm have taken place since 1993, this is the first year for the neighborhood to participate. The event was sponsored by New Haven Friends of the Farmington Canal Greenway.

“This is to showcase the Learning Corridor to a diverse group,” said Community Placemaking and Engagement Network (CPEN) Founder Doreen Abubakar, who began coordinating the event months ago.

By an hour into activities, she said she’d already noticed a new audience—a number of white people who’d come out to use the trail, and weren’t aware of the city’s bike share station at nearby LincolnBassett School.

“I’ve seen a lot of people who would not otherwise know about the trail,” she said, mentioning a woman from Stratford who had never been to the site before. “It’s the connection that the learning corridor has.”

Walking around the area with her granddaughter Maddie, Abubakar said that she sees the area’s beautification efforts—a blooming pollinator garden and urban oasis with leafy green trees and bright, fragrant flowers—as one incentive to visit the trail. She’s careful to keep volunteers, walkers, and neighborhood kids away from the back of the oasis, where a spray of poison ivy has sprung up.

Like usage of the trail, she said the project has relied on collaboration and growing community support. Five years ago, she brought that approach to Imran Khan, owner of Cerda’s Market on Shelton Avenue. She was starting her pollinator garden, and found that “you can’t have a garden without water.”

There weren’t ant public pumps or fountains in the area. So she made a simple request: she would use water from Cerda’s, and the market could charge her at the end of each month.

Khan never billed her for the water. Instead, he began asking what he could do to help, providing snacks and cool drinks to volunteers on days when their work stretched on for hours. He’s begun to talk to her about rehabbing the store, bringing more fresh produce into the neighborhood. The two plan to help each other make it happen, Abubakar said.

“More customers, more people in the neighborhood, more people on the trail,” Khan said, doing a quick tour of the pollinator garden before heading back into the market Saturday.

Back on Hazel Street, Friends of the Farmington Canal Greenway Founder Aaron Goode had gathered a small group to walk a section of the trail, heading from Hazel Street across Shelton Avenue, and toward Starr. Crossing the road carefully, he stopped by a small metal box that held an infrared sensor, placing one arm over the top.

As the group huddled in around him, Goode explained that the sensor is triggered by heat each time a body passes, as part of an ongoing effort to measure usage on the trail.

In the past year, Goode said that the sensor has tracked about 100,000 uses, giving trail and nature advocates hard “trail census” data to advocate for snow removal, grass cutting, and maintenance efforts along the learning corridor.

He motioned onward, attendees gathering at Kwadwo Adae’s 2016 “Em City Footraces” mural. They took in the design: six brightly dressed, three-legged runners, sporting musical instruments,

“From morning to night, I hear people on the trail” Calvin Nelson said. The Elm City Footraces mural is on the side of his garage. “I love it.”

Kwadwo Adae: “If I can bring enough people together, then they can be as emotionally invested in the artwork as I am. This is ours. Not mine.”

Community Placemaking and Engagement Network (CPEN) Founder Doreen Abubakar, with her granddaughter Maddie and Cerda’s Market Owner Imran Khan.

12

bright leggings, soccer jerseys and flowers as they run, the city’s skyline reaching upward in the background. In the just-recessed space behind them, brightly painted grasses and flowers sway, their centers emblazoned with the names of supporting organizations.

Adae stepped forward, motioning to the bright wall as he spoke.

He recalled the joy of painting with trail enthusiasts and members of the neighborhood two summers ago, learning about Newhallville’s history as longtime residents and neighborhood youngsters pitched in. It’s a joy he said he intends to recreate this summer, as he embarks on a “Women’s Empowerment Mural” on Goodrich Street this June.

Attendee David Joyner, an avid cyclist and New Haven Bike Month advocate, cocked his head to the side just a little. “I like that they’re all different colors,” he said, motioning to the purple, orange, and blue skin of the mural’s runners. “It really stands for unity to me.”

“Unifying people to create something is what it’s about,” Adae said.

His button-down, patterned with Paul Gauguin vignettes, flapped in the breeze. “If I can bring enough people together, then they can be as emotionally invested in the artwork as I am. This is ours. Not mine.”

Goode added that it’s part of a “holistic experience” that Friends of the Farmington Canal Greenway and the Farmington Canal-to-Rail Association are envisioning for users on the trail. Invoking New York City’s elevated High Line, he said that he wants to see both more use of the trail, and more art on its blank walls, buildings. and garages.

From the adjacent house, Newhallvillian Calvin Nelson hooked around the side of the building, to see who was chatting at his garage.

He embraced Adae, then struck a funny position, as if he was running with the runners.

“From morning to night, I hear people on the trail” he said, adding that he would like to see increased foot traffic. “I love it.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Lawlor Sees Progress On Reform

Headline Concerts

by THOMAS BREEN Mike Lawlor has three goals for criminal justice reform in Connecticut: Reduce crime. Reduce spending. And restore the public’s confidence in the system.

From his vantage point as a professional criminal justice reformer, Connecticut is well on its way to achieving all three.

Lawlor, who has served as the state’s under secretary for criminal justice policy and planning since January 2011, laid out those three goals in an interview on the WNHH program “Criminal Justice Insider with Babz Rawls-Ivy and Jeff Grant.” He was Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s top deputy focused on finding alternatives to prison and addressing historic injustice in the system, a central goal of Malloy’s tenure cast as the “Second Chance society.” As Malloy’s controversial tenure nears its end, that effort is widely seen as his greatest success.

Lawlor, who lives on New Haven’s East Shore, is currently on leave from his position as a tenured associate professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven. Before he was appointed to the criminal justice policy position at the state’s Office of Policy and Management (OPM), Lawlor served 12 terms in the state’s General Assembly representing East Haven “If you’re going to have public policy,” Lawlor said as he reflected on his career to date in public service, “you should have really clear goals and you should be able to articulate what those are in a way that people can understand them.”

Reducing crime and reducing spending are pretty straightforward, he said. For the goal of restoring confidence in the criminal justice system, he specifically cited crime victims who feel that they did not get justice, African Americans and Latinos who feel that the system is not fair to them, and citizens as a whole who read articles everyday about police brutality and wrongful convictions and misconduct by prosecutors, judges, correctional officers, and legislators.

“When people lose confidence” in the

criminal justice system, he said, “it leads to more crime.”

As a student and aspiring lawyer and politician nearly 40 years ago, Lawlor had two critical encounters with criminal justice systems that both tested his confidence and encouraged him to spend his career working to change the way governments administer law and handle those who violate it.

The first experience came not in Connecticut, but in Communist Poland. In 1980, Lawlor was attending graduate school in London. He and a college friend from the University of Connecticut went on a trip to visit his friend’s family in Poland, which would soon see the rise of the Solidarity trade union and political movement that would help bring an end to one-party Communist rule in the country.

During the trip, Lawlor was arrested for taking photos of people standing in a meat line. He was sent to prison and interrogated in Russian. “There’s nothing like sitting in a jail cell in another country,” he said, where there’s no bail, no court hearings, and you have basically no rights. He only wound up spending a day in jail, but he remembered worrying at the time that he could be behind bars for a day, or for a decade.

A couple years later, he said, he got a job with Connecticut’s sheriffs departments.

He said he put a lot of handcuffs on people, took them to prison, and got to watch a lot of criminal trials. Reflecting on the time he had spent in law school in Washington D.C. as a public defender, where he always found himself begging prosecutors for the best deal possible for his clients, Lawlor said the public defender job and the job in the sheriffs department encouraged him to become a prosecutor.

He found that so much of the criminal justice world hinged upon the discretion of prosecutors that, instead of pleading with them from the perspective of a public defender, he thought it wiser and more effective to become a prosecutor himself.

Over the decades as he has worked as a prosecutor, a state legislator, an academic,

Grab a blanket and a picnic!

It’s free!

Photo: Andrei Averbuch

Governor signs first “Second Chance Society” bill surrounded by local pols on DIxwell Avenue.

ALIYYA SWABY PHOTO

Photo: Rafa Cardenas

JUNE 9–23

Warm June weather and the historic New Haven Green are the perfect backdrop for unforgettable nights with family, friends, and great music.

ELAN TROTMAN WITH ROHN LAWRENCE

and Special Guest

The Rahsaan Langley Project

SAT JUNE 9 6PM

FLOR DE TOLOACHE & LAS CAFETERAS

SUN JUNE 10 6PM

RUTH B

SAT JUNE 16 7PM

More at ARTIDEA.ORG

Con’t on page 15

13

AMIR ELSAFFAR WITH MEMBERS OF THE RIVERS OF SOUND ORCHESTRA AND NEW HAVEN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

SUN JUNE 17 4PM

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

NEW HAVEN’S GRASSROOTS COMMUNITY RADIO STATION! www.newhavenindependent.org

JOE UGLY IN THE MORNING Weekdays 6-9 a.m.

THE TOM FICKLIN SHOW Mondays 10 a.m.

MAYOR MONDAY!

MERCY QUAYE

Mondays 11 a.m.

Mondays 1 p.m.

“THE SHOW”

“DJ REL”

MICHELLE TURNER Tuesdays 9 a.m.

“WERK IT OUT”

ELVERT EDEN Tuesdays at 2 p.m.

MORNINGS WITH MUBARAKAH

“JAZZ HAVEN”

Wednesdays 9 a.m.

Wednesdays 2 p.m.

STANLEY WELCH

“TALK-SIP”

LOVEBABZ LOVETALK

Thursdays 1 p.m.

Mondays-Fridays 9 a.m.

ALISA BOWENSMERCADO

FRIDAY PUNDITS Fridays 11 a.m.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Con’t on page 13

and now a state-appointed policy expert, Lawlor has seen a great deal of change in the criminal justice world in Connecticut. Particularly, he said, that change has come under the two-term administration of Democratic Gov. Malloy.

In the 1980s, he said, the public debate around criminal justice policy was “pretty cut and dry.” Most people and legislators in power approved of the war on drugs, thought that criminals should be in jail, and that they should serve longer sentences.

“It was pretty simplistic,” he said.

Now, he said, the public is much more wary of an excessively punitive criminal justice system because of the ubiquity of videos from police body cameras, convenience store surveillance cameras, and cell phone cameras that point to abuses of power that may in other times have failed to garner popular and media attention.

Also, he said, criminal justice reform has become more and more of a non-partisan issue as fiscal conservatives who criticize the abundance of state dollars spent on locking people up find themselves on the same side of the issue as left-leaning progressives who believe in the moral and legal imperative of reducing prison populations.

Under the leadership of Governor Malloy, Lawlor said, Connecticut has taken advantage of the national, increasingly non-partisan momentum of criminal justice reform to achieve some real changes that work towards realizing the three goals of reducing crime, reducing spending, and restoring confidence in the criminal justice system. Lawlor pointed to Malloy’s commitment to eliminating the death penalty, passing bail reform, and pushing for a variety of Second Chance Society policies as examples of the reform mentality of this administration.

As evidence of that approach’s success, Lawlor said Connecticut’s prison population of around 13,000 is at a 24-year low for the state.

He noted that Connecticut has closed prisons “left and right” over the past eight years, not for the sake of releasing people who have broken the law, but because fewer and fewer people are committing crimes, being arrested, and being sent to jail.

He said this administration’s greatest criminal justice reform legacy will likely lie in how it has handled youth offenders.

“If you look at 18-year-olds getting arrested compared to 2009,” he said, “it’s down 65 percent.” He said the number of 18-to-21-year-olds behind bars has also dropped by 65 percent, from around 2,100 to around 800.

“That’s the school-to-prison pipeline,” he said. “When the story of [Malloy’s] criminal justice legacy is really told, that will be the highlight.”

And what that all adds up to, Lawlor said, is a lot less crime, less money spent on prisons and other criminal justice institution, and steps towards restoring public confidence in the law and the government the officials who administer it.

Justice For All: First Ever All Black Women Criminal Justice System!

by Gemma Greene, BDO Staff Writer

With the onslaught of police-led shootings and killings against Black men and women, unjustly rulings from the courts handing down years in jail, many wonder what it would be like if there were more men and women of color in the criminal justice system.

Well, one city has done it and has officially changed history.

The City of South Fulton, Georgia’s fifth largest city, is the first city in American history where every criminal justice department head is an African American woman.

Chief of Police Sheila Rogers is a career law enforcement professional with more than twenty-six years experience. Chief Rogers is the city’s first police chief and one of a few women police chief around the country.

Chief Judge Tiffany Carter Sellers is a University of Georgia law school graduate and the City’s first chief judge. Judge Sellers was selected through a panel of experienced judges from the surrounding community.

According to The Atlanta Voice, Judge Sellers hired and appointed the Court Administrator, Lakesiya Cofield, and the City’s first Chief Court Clerk, Ramona Howard.

Also appointed to represent the two equally important components of any criminal justice system were two attorneys, City Solicitor LaDawn “LBJ” Jones, who prosecutes the cases and City Public Defender Viveca Famber Powell, who defends those accused of crimes.

Together these African American women make up all the portions of the criminal justice system in the new city.

No other time in American history has black women been appointed to the top position in every department in an entire cities criminal justice system.

No other time in American history have women made up all of a city first.

This has never happened before… until now.

“Our goal is to ensure justice for everyone,” Sellers said to The At-

lanta Voice. “However, as African American women we are sensitive to the history of criminal justice in our country. We want to be an example of how to do things right.”

There’s something to be said about a town or city that has a large population of African Americans in the Criminal Justice system: the number of deaths decreases.

When black officers reach 25% ratio in the force, the rate of fatal police-involved incidents levels off. A 2015 study found that once a police department became about 40 percent black, the trendline flipped — the more black officers a department has after that point, the less likely the incidence of fatal encounters with black people. But the study suggests that what departments really need isn’t just to simply add more black officers, but to reach a critical mass of black officers. In fact, so many black officers that they would be overrepresented relative to the local black population. (Very few local police departments reached that 40-percent mark. The researchers looked at the 100 largest cities in the country, and only 15 had police forces with that proportion of black officers.)

Under Sellers’s leadership, the demographics of the court are just the beginning. She has incorporated municipal court policies not found in other systems including guaranteed access to an attorney, a robust diver-

sion program that is infused into the court process, and overall respect for victims and the accused alike.

Sellers insists on courtroom decorum that shows respect to the accused, victims, and visitors. The court also insists on giving each person and their case the respect they deserve from the moment they walk in the door.

Further, Sellers spends much of her time ensuring everyone fully understand what is happening in the system. The hope is to restore faith in the justice system for many of the citizens who have had less than stellar experiences in other courts.

The city’s pre-trial diversion program will allow offenders to keep a clean record in exchange for community service, education, and… … counseling where appropriate.

The diversion program, “Second Chance South Fulton,” is paid for by the court budget and overseen by the City Solicitor, LaDawn “LBJ” Jones.

Many cities of this size do not have diversion programs.

“One of the primary purposes of laws is to protect citizens and the city,” Jones explained. “You can do that without sending everyone to jail or enforce high fees. Most people do better when they know better.”

Another progressive component of the court system is the appointment

of the public defender. In most jurisdictions, a public defender is only assigned after someone proves they cannot afford a private attorney.

In South Fulton, everyone that appears before the court has an opportunity to receive appointed counsel prior to making a decision on their case.

“Although we handle misdemeanors, the cases can have serious longterm effects on the person accused,” Powell said. “Having an opportunity to advise clients ensures justice is received by all.”

In all matters, whether it is the operation of the probation department or bond considerations, the city, as well as the rights of the victims and defendant are considered.

The City of South Fulton will grow as citizens looking for a place to settle chose to live in a community where they are reassured that the police and courts in their city will be partners in making the community better.

In the City of South Fulton’s justice system, African Americans are far less likely to be arrested, prosecuted, or detained in custody because of incidents like those seen in recent news. These assurances help lawabiding citizens, particularly African Americans, feel less tense when they see blue lights in their rearview.

In addition to making history, South Fulton may become an example for the rest of the country.

Why We Celebrate

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

by Khalilah L. Brown-Dean Graduation season brings me tremendous joy. I love seeing the various photos, video clips and stories of graduates who have overcome tremendous odds.

My inner crafting nerd marvels at the talent displayed on creatively decorated graduation caps. I look forward to hearing the commencement speeches given by celebrities, entrepreneurs and hardworking alumni. Graduations are a reminder that for many years, people of color were systematically kept out of institutions of higher learning. It’s why the traditions associated with HBCU graduations always captivate me.

Unfortunately, this year’s commencement season has been marked by institutional efforts to police how proud graduates mark the occasion. It reminded me that 20 years ago this week, I earned my first college degree.

Graduates of the University of Virginia (UVA) are very particular about language and tradition. We have grounds rather than a campus. We refer to students by their status (e.g. first-years, fourth-years) rather than the titles of freshman and senior. Long before tiki torch-wielding bigots descended upon Charlottesville, Wahoo Wah was the rallying cry that periodically rang out near my alma mater’s iconic rotunda. Notable alums like Dawn Staley, Katie Couric, Leland Melvin and Chris Long shared the time-honored tradition of hanging out on the lawn, never the quad.

As the first person in my immediate family to graduate from college, I celebrated with gratitude and exuberance. I finished my time at UVA just three weeks after my beloved grandfather, Ted Louis Brown, suffered the first of what would become a series of heart attacks that would eventually claim his life. Defying his physician’s orders not to travel, my towering grandfather stood at the base of the lawn to see his first-born grandchild graduate. I keep a picture of him widely beaming as a reminder that no act of success in this life comes without the encouragement of people who often see more in us than we see in ourselves.

Twice a year for four years, he would pack his green conversion van with expert precision to transport my college essentials: halogen lamps; cases of ramen noodles; Bath and Body Works scented lotions; incense bearing names such as Egyptian Musk and Cool Breeze; and various black light posters purchased from the bookstore. Without fail, he would

16

somehow convince the young men hanging out near the dorm to help him unload the van. Helping usually meant lugging the heavy items while he supervised from the side.

Together, he and my grandmother would always manage to slip money into my hands after a visit. My grandmother was a regal Southern woman who ensured that my wardrobe always matched the occasion and reminded me who I was and whose I was. With every conversation, I would make note of her class ring inscribed with “Amherst County Training School” rather than High School. Black students were trained to serve society.

White students were educated to shape it.

My aunts possessed the uncanny ability to place a phone call or send a greeting card when I needed it most. My greatuncle often volunteered to pick me up for a weekend respite from the stressors of being a first-generation college student that even my most well-meaning friends couldn’t understand.

Commencement provided a meaningful opportunity for my two younger sisters to see the power of higher education.

They watched in awe of brown faces who looked like their own. Along with my younger cousins, they marveled at the parade of brightly colored stoles bearing organizational affiliations. They saw the importance of honor societies, civic organizations, fraternal groups and professional associations that paved the way for many graduates. Their curiosity piqued after seeing acronyms such as NSBE and BSA. My village of play cousins and church members piled onto a chartered coach alongside the family of my high school math teacher to make the trek to the ceremony. There was a special sympatico that Machelle Penn, once my math teacher and forever my mentor, received her master’s degree as I received my bachelor’s.

We proved that two brown girls from a small town called Lynchburg were the antithesis of Thomas Jefferson’s views of race codified in his Notes on the State of Virginia. We gathered in Jefferson’s Academic Village, fully knowing that the magnificent architectural structures had been built by enslaved Africans. We knew that we owed a debt to the ancestors who labored from can’t see, to can’t see so that we, their descendants, could achieve the freedom borne of education. I later learned that the dorm I resided in for two years was built over a burial ground for enslaved laborers. I lived on sacred ground enriched by martyrs of resistance and resilience.

Watching the tears well in my mother’s eyes was a humbling reminder of all that she sacrificed to make my graduation possible. The long nights spent counseling me through crippling self-doubt.

The prayers that were never denied even

when their manifestations were delayed.

My mother was the one who pushed me beyond my comfort zone while teaching me that my college experience had to be more than just academics. What a revolutionary thought.

I walked into graduation flanked by my beautiful sorority sisters. With our pink and green stoles, balloons and lots of bubbles, we celebrated loudly and enthusiastically. We remembered the peers who closed doors, physically and metaphorically, because they didn’t think we were students. Our cheers grew louder as we remembered working through various acts of racial aggression like slurs written onto white boards, the desecration of flyers announcing cultural events and efforts to dilute or defund cultural centers. We rejoiced in acknowledging that the first wave of Black students at this public institution had graduated just two decades prior. In spite of our diverse backgrounds, we shared the mutual experience of having White classmates tell us we’d only been admitted due to affirmative action quotas. Making eye contact with my mother, I realized the accomplishment of graduating didn’t just belong to me. It belonged to her. It belonged to my village.

Collectively, it belonged to the people who had prayed for us and spoken blessings into our lives.

We celebrated that in spite of racial battle fatigue and perpetual traumatic stress, we earned the right to “Wear the Honors of Honor.” We defied the collective indifference to ongoing challenges faced by people of color at predominantly White institutions. Students, faculty and staff who are rendered both invisible and hypervisible at once.

This is why students of color celebrate their commencements with such exuberance. There is not a single student of color that I have encountered in 15 years of teaching at the collegiate level who hasn’t been confronted by someone else’s limiting definition of where and how they are supposed to be. Even students who ardently work to distance themselves from a perceived racial affinity often find their existence questioned. We celebrate because we know the obstacles that were overcome. The behind-the-scenes fights that often dwarfed the public battles. The constant assaults on spirit and well-being just to simply be. We celebrate because we realize that resilience is built into our DNA even though that shouldn’t be a qualifying determinant of worth.

For this, we celebrate.

Dr. Khalilah L. Brown-Dean is an associate professor of Political Science where she writes about American Politics, political psychology, and public policy. You can follow her on Twitter @KBDPHD.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Meet the Only African American Female Stockbroker on the New York Stock Exchange Lauren Simmons is the only woman that is a full-time employee at the New York Stock Exchange. And what’s more, she’s an African American! There are very few women who have occupied a trading position and have signed their name in the book that contains the constitution of the New York Stock Exchange alongside the likes of John D. Rockefeller, and Simmons happens to be one of them.

Lauren Simmons, a 23-year-old Black woman, got her bachelor’s degree in genetics at Kennesaw State University. While she was in college, she worked as a supervisor at Six Flags and interned at Woodstock Clinical Treatment Center where she created an innovative version of the center’s resource manual along with a budget sheet of $300,000 after analyzing the company’s past expenses.

Moreover, her work portfolio includes an internship at Nordstrom and working at Saks Inc. for six months before joining Rosenblatt

Securities last year.

“I fell in love with the numbers and the fast movement, and the men in the trading jackets and everything was moving so fast and I’m loving it,” she told BBC. The founder and CEO of the securities firm that hired Simmons, Richard Rosenblatt, says he is confident that “she won’t be the last.” Though artificial intelligence has been slowly replacing humans in managing stock portfolios, the New York Stock Exchange is still ultimately dominated by men.

“They are like you’re a woman, and you are 23, and you are a minority,” Simmons said. “What are you doing, how did you get this job?”

Rosenblatt, who has been in the trading industry since 1969, shared that the trading game is a very physical thing and that it didn’t attract most women, “You and I would look at each other and try to figure out: How big an order did we have? How

nervous did you look? How aggressive were you going to be?”

For now, Simmons remains to be the sole female broker on the floor

even though Rosenblatt has been trying to recruit other women. “We just hired a new person not too long ago and in the interview process, there

weren’t that many female applicants, because they weren’t applying,” Simmons said.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Musical Stageplay to Bring 1930’s Actress Hattie McDaniel Back to Life in an Award-Winning Performance in San Francisco

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San Francisco, CA — Rich-Rey Productions LLC has announced the Bay Area premiere of Hattie McDaniel…

What I Need You To Know! starring actress Vickilyn Reynolds as Hattie McDaniel, the trailblazing Gone with the Wind Academy Award-winner.

Hattie McDaniel…, directed by Byron Nora, will perform from June 21 – 24, 2018 at the Cowell Theatre located within the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture (2 Marina Blvd, Landmark Building C, Suite 260, San Francisco, CA 94123).

“I am very excited to open in San Francisco,” said Vickilyn Reynolds. “I had such a great time when I was there with the tour of George C. Wolfe’s Bring in da noise, Bring in da funk.

The people of San Fran are a kind and giving audience and I look forward to this run there.”

Hattie McDaniel… What I Need You To Know! takes the audience on a dramatic musical journey exploring Hattie’s life from her early childhood, her relationship with her family and her difficult decision to leave and move to

Hattie McDaniel was the first African American actor to win an Oscar for her performance in “Gone With the Wind” in 1940.

A one-woman musical stageplay in her legacy, “Hattie McDaniel… What I Need You to Know!” starring Vickilyn Reynolds, will premiere in the Bay Area at the Cowell Theatre from June 21 to 24, 2018.

Los Angeles. Audiences will witness her pursuit of artistic dreams during a time filled with racism and segregation.

In addition to Ms. Reynolds and Mr. Nora (Director who also serves as Lighting and Set Designer), the creative team includes Alyssa Champo (Stage Manager), A. Lee Reynolds (Executive Producer), Kevin Mayes (Costume Designer), Mylette Nora (Costume Designer) and Shelia Dorn (Wig Design).

Attendees to the musical stageplay are encouraged to dress up in 1930’s attire.

“Vickilyn Reynolds is a vocal powerhouse.” – Dan Bacalzo, TheaterMania.com “If ever a woman were born to portray pioneering Denver actress Hattie McDaniel, it’s this gardenia-wielding doppelganger.” — The Denver Post “Actress/singer Vickilyn Reynolds aims to expand the public’s knowledge and appreciation of her with the riveting one-woman powerhouse show.” — Huffington Post

June Ia African-American Music Month Music Legend Chuck Berry Did, In Fact, Invent Rock ‘N’ Roll -- Not Elvis Presley or the Beatles!

Chuck Berry was an African American singer, songwriter, musician, and one of the original pioneers of rock and roll music. But he was more than just a pioneer of this popular music genre... He invented it! Even Billboard magazine agrees that if it wasn’t for Chuck Berry, rock and roll music would not even exist... or at least would not be the same!

only a rock and roll sound but a rock and roll stance.”

In many different issues, Rolling Stone magazine included him on the “greatest of all time” lists, and ranked him #5 on their 2004 and 2011 published list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.

His all-time hit songs include “Maybellene”, “Rock and Roll Music”, “Sweet Little 16”, “School Day”, and everyone’s favorite “Johnny B. Goode” - which is the only rock-and-roll song included on the Voyager Golden Record.

An overnight rock star... and entrepreneur Born in 1926 into a middle-class family in St. Louis, Berry took an interest in music at a very early age and reportedly made his first public performance while in high school.

By 1955, he had recorded “Maybellene” - an adaptation of the country song “Ida Red” - which quickly became the #1 song in the country and went on to sell over a million copies.

By the 1960’s, Berry was already a super star with several hit records under his belt, appearances in major films, and a nationwide tours that were easily selling out. He even established his very own nightclub in

18

A rock star up until his death

his hometown called Berry’s Club Bandstand.

The first to do it like he did it In 1986, Berry was among the first musicians to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. During the ceremony, he was cited for having “laid the groundwork for not

When he turned 90 years old, Berry announced that he’d soon go on the road to support his first new album in 38 years. However, he died shortly after making that announcement.

His fans were disappointed that he didn’t get to go on what would have been his last tour, but his legend continues to live on through the music contributions he made as the king, the godfather, and the inventor of rock and roll music!

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018 Con’t from page 9

Freddy Puts

Democratic Party’s nomination for lieutenant governor, (pictured above) joined New Haven State Reps Toni Walker and Robyn Porter in handing out free books to children in support of the local literacy tutoring organization, New Haven Reads.

Darry Robinson said he and his son Junior came out to support the community and just to see what was going on. Dottie Mack said she and her grandson Jake, Jr. looked forward to a parade that celebrated a proud past and a better tomorrow.

“I want them to experience what I’ve always experienced,” Sharadae Borrero said about why she brought her two daughter Bella and Cali out to Dixwell Avenue on Sunday. She said she loved the food, the music, and the drill teams the best.

Indeed, as the parade marched its way to its culmination point at Dixwell Avenue and Foote Street near the Stetson Library, the many drill team participants took 30 seconds each to strut their stuff and wow the audiences with their flexibility, coordination, and bravado.

Along with the Berkeley Knights Drill Team, some of the other drill team participants included the Fusion Steppers, the Nation Drill Squad (pictured), and All Blue Everything.

Hartford’s Ebony Horsewomen (pictured) clip-clopped past Varick AME church with a crew of black and brown female riders on horseback.

The riders of the Flaming Knights motorcycle club, which was founded in New Haven 50 years ago, revved their motors in salute as they rode past the library.

And parents and children who had lost loved ones to gun violence shared their collective grief and determination to put an end to gun violence through their advocacy for the Victims of Gun Violence Botanical Garden project pictured).

After the parade had ended nearly three hours after its kick off, Adger expressed delight at the success of the parade. She said she heard from a lot of people about how disappointed they were when the parade was postponed two weeks ago due to rain. But, she said, 90 percent of the originally booked participants showed up for the rescheduled date on Sunday.

“It show how important this parade is to the black community,” she said.

Parade officials handed out awards: The Trinbago American Association of Southern Connecticut won the Grand Marshal Award.

DJ Majestic won the Elm City Freddy Fixer Spirit Award.

The Berkeley Knights Drill Team won the Best Drill Team Award.

Blue Steel Drumline won the Best Marching Unit Award.

The Flaming Knights motorcycle club won the Best Motorcycle Group Award.

The King-Robinson marching band won the Best Marching Band Award.

The Hamden Academy of Dance and Music won the award for best float.

19

INNER-CITY NEWS July06, 27,2018 2016 - August THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June June 12, 02,2018 2016

The Town of East Haven is currently accepting applications from qualified candidates for the position of General Foreman, Streets and Highways. The starting salary is $68,379.00 per year and the town offers an excellent benefit package. Only candidates with at least 8 years of experience in the construction, maintenance and servicing of highways, streets and drainage with at least 4 years VALENTINAexperience, MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- or APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE of supervisory High School Diploma GED and a CDL, class 2 will be considered. Applications are available at Mayor’s Office, 250 Main Street, HOME INC,CT on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, East Haven or online at http://www.townofeasthavenct.org/civiltest.shtml. is accepting pre-applications for studio one-bedroom apartments at this develThe deadline for submission is June 8, and 2018. opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply.Town Pre-applications willisbecommitted available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y The of East Haven to building a workforce of diverse individ25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have uals. Minorities, Females, Handicapped and Veterans are encouraged to apply. 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 preDEEP RIVER HOUSING AUTHORITY applications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third OPENING WAITING LIST FOR SENIOR/DISABLED Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

NOTICE

The Deep River Housing Authority will open its waiting list for Senior/Disabled Housing on June 1st. This list will remain open until June 30th.

To request an application, please call 860-526-5119. Applications will be accepted by mail (must be postmarked or date stamped by June 30th).

Housing is available to anyone over 62 or handicapped/disabled that meet the income VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES guidelines. Monthly rate is based on income with a minimum base rent requirement of $944.00.

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus y deAuthority la New Haven Housing Authority, está Deep River House Housing aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos 60 Main Street de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Deep Street,River, New Haven.

Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos CT 06417

NOTICIA

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) INVITATION TO BID en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición Site Acres deberán remitirse llamando a HOME INCImprovements al 203-562-4663 duranteat esasBonnie horas.Pre-solicitudes a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Drive, Orange Street, tercer piso, Vance Bristol, CT New Haven , CT 06510 .

The Bristol Housing Authority will receive sealed bids on or before 10:00 a.m. EST, Friday, July 6, 2018 at their offices at 164 Jerome Avenue, Bristol, Connecticut 06010 and said bids will be publicly opened and read aloud immediately thereafter.

Bids will be received for furnishing all labor, materials, tools and equipment necessary to complete “Site Improvements at Bonnie Acres, Vance Drive, Bristol, Connecticut” including but not limited to removal of trees, stumps and brush; replacement of trees; plantings; and turf restoration. Sealed bid packages must be clearly marked “Site Improvements at Bonnie Acres, Attention: Mitzy Rowe, CEO.” A pre-bid walk through will be held on Friday, June 22, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. Please meet at the Bonnie Acres Community Room, 59 Vance Drive, Bristol, CT 06010. Attendance is strongly All newforapartments, recommended all bidders. new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near stop & shopping center Contract Documents including Plans andbus Specifications, as prepared

by J ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS, 84 Market 3, Newington, CT 06111, will@be860-985-8258 on file at the Bristol Pet under 40lb Square, allowed.Suite Interested parties contact Maria Housing Authority, 164 Jerome Avenue, Bristol, CT. Contract Documents can be reviewed and purchased within the on-line plan room of Advanced Reprographics, Plainville, CT at http:// www.advancedrepro.net by calling 410-1020. Project information can also CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is or pleased to offer (860) a Deacon’s beCertificate obtainedProgram. online at Projectdog.com.

This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The is $125.

Classes Saturday, August to 20,waive 2016 1:30The Bristol Housing Authority reserves thecost right to reject anystart or all bids and/or any 3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. informalities in bidding, when such action is deemed to be in the best interest of the Bristol (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster Housing Authority. All bid documents must be filled out completely when submitted.

St. New Haven, CT 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 Bristol 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 paySealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour ment of Davis-Bacon wages, and compliance with certain local, state and federal requireuntil This 3:00ispm on Tuesday, ments. a Federally funded August project.” 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, NoSeymour, bids shall be a period ofSidewalk sixty (60) days after and the opening of bids without CTwithdrawn 06483 forforConcrete Repairs Replacement at the the consent of the Bristol Housing Authority.

Smithfield Gardens please Assisted Living Smith StreetAuthority, Seymour.

For further information, contact CarlFacility, Johnson, 26 Bristol Housing Director of Capital Funds at (860) 585-2028 or Jay R. Victorick, J ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS at (860) 665-7063.

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith

NEW HAVEN

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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

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Invitation for Bid (IFB) Phineas T. Barnum Apartments Ventilation Upgrades Solicitation Number: 109-PD-18-S The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport d/b/a Park City Communities (PCC) is requesting sealed bids for P.T. Barnum Apartments Ventilation Upgrades. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on June 11, 2018. To obtain a copy of the solicitation you must send your request to bids@ parkcitycommunities.org, please reference solicitation number and title on the subject line. A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at 96 Bird Street, Bridgeport, CT 06605 on June 26, 2018 @ 10:00 a.m., submitting a bid for the project without attending conference is not in the best interest of the Offeror. Additional questions should be emailed only to bids@parkcitycommunities. org no later than July 5, 2018 @ 3:00 p.m. Answers to all the questions will be posted on PCC’s Website: www.parkcitycommunities. org. All bids must be received by mailed or hand delivered by July 12, 2018 @ 2:00 PM, to Ms. Caroline Sanchez, Director of Procurement, 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. No bids will be accepted after the designated time.

EXP, welder for structural steel, misc. metals shop Send resume: hherbert@gwfabrication.com

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 rateor& excellent benefits BA/BS in Civil Engineering Construction Management.

Contact: Dana Briere Phone: 2-5 yrs. experience.

OSHA Certified.

Email: Proficient 860-243-2300 in reading contract plans and specifications. dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com Resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 10 Northwood Dr., Women & Minority Applicants are Bloomfield, CT 06002; Fax 860.218.2433; encouragedRED toTechnologies, apply LLC is an EOE. Email resumes to info@redtechllc.com.

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity EmployerRemediation Division Project Manager Environmental

Field Engineer

3-5 years exp. and Bachelor’s Degree, 40-Hr. Hazwoper Training Req. Forward resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 10 Northwood Dr., Bloomfield, CT 06002;

Fax 860.218.2433; or Email to HR@redtechllc.com

RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks: Reclaimer Operators and Milling Operators with current licensing and clean driving record.

We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860243-2300 Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming Inc Employer

seeks: Construction Equipment Mechanic preferably experienced in Reclaiming and Road Milling Equipment. We offer factory The Town of Wallingford is currently accepting applications for Firefighter/ Paramedic. Applicants must have: a valid CPAT card, HS diploma/GED, training Asphalt on equipment we operate.

Garrity Reclaiming Inc valid driver’s license and hold a valid Paramedic License that meets CT State Location: Bloomfield CT seeks: Construction Equipment Mechanic Regulations. Copies of licenses and certifications must be submitted with Contact: experienced James Burke Phone: 860preferably in Reclaiming and application materials. The Town of Wallingford offers a competitive pay rate 243-2300 Invitationthere to Bid: of $54,064.40 to $69,701.32 annually. In addition, is a $4,400 annual Road Milling Equipment.

We offer factory paramedic bonus plus an excellent fringe benefitndpackage. Application deademail: jim.burke@garrityasphalt.com training on equipment we operate.

2 Notice line is June 1, 2018 or the date the 75th application is received, whichever Women & Minority Applicants are Location: Bloomfield CT occurs first. Apply: Human Resources Department, Town of Wallingford, Contact:encouraged James Burke Phone: 860to apply 45 South Main St., Wallingford, CT. phone: (203) 294-2080; fax: (203) 2942084. EOE. 243-2300 Old Saybrook, CT Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity email: jim.burke@garrityasphalt.com Employer We offer excellent hourly rate & (4 Buildings, 17 Units) Women excellent & Minoritybenefits Applicants are Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Health Director- Directs public health services and the enforcement New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Cast-We offer excellent hourly rate & Employer of health regulations. Must meet the State of Connecticut Health in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, excellent benefits Dept. experience and training approval. Graduate degree in Public

Firefighter/ParamediC

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

HEALTH

HealthFlooring, from a recognized college or10univ. plus five Appliances, (5) years of proPainting, Division Specialties, Residential Casework, gressively responsible professional public health program experiMechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. ence in local health , including at least (5) years in public health This contract is subject to statedegree set-aside contractcollege compliance requirements. code enforcement. Other acceptable fromand accredited Union Company seeks: Tractor Trailer or univ. stipulated in CGS § 19a-200. Must possess and maintain Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction a Registered Sanitarian license and CT Due DPHDate: PhaseAugust II Subsurface Bid Extended, 5, 2016 Equipment. Must have a CDL License, Sewage Certification. Completion of on-line FEMA ICS 100 & 200 clean driving record, capable of operating Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 is required as well as a valid CT Drivers’ license. Possession CT Union Company seeks: Tractor Trailer heavy equipment; be willing to travel Project documents available via ftp link below: DPH Certified Food Inspector is preferred Salary: $101,144 ~ Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction throughout the Northeast & NY. We offer $129,414 plus an excellent fringe benefit package.

Apply to: Human http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage Equipment. Must have a CDL License, excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits Resources Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, clean driving record, capable of operating Wallingford, CT 06492. Closing date will be June 15, 2018 or the Contact: Dana be Briere Phone: heavy equipment; willing to travel Fax50th or Email Questions is & Bids to: Dawnwhichever Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com date the application received, occurs first.

EOE. 860-243-2300 Email: the Northeast & NY. We offer HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certifiedthroughout Businesses dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com hourly rate & excellent benefits Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483excellent Common Ground High School is seeking a Full Time TeachWomen & Minority Applicants are Contact: Dana Briere Phone: AA/EEO EMPLOYER ing Assistant (TA). The TA is responsible for supporting teachers in the classroom during the school day, providing targeted supports in academic labs both during and after school, and assisting with summer academic programs. For a full job description and how to apply, please visit http://commongroundct.org/2018/05/common-ground-is-seeking-a-special-educationteaching-assistant-ta/

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encouraged to apply 860-243-2300 Email: Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com Employer Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 -- August 02, 2016 THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 June 12, 2018

Dispatcher

Boundaries LLC is a full-service Land Surveying Firm located in Griswold, CT. We are recruiting for these Materials is seeking a motivated, organized, detail-oriented candidate to join its NOTICE positions and are accepting resumes for Survey Field Galasso truck dispatch office. Responsibilities include order entry and truck ticketing in a fast Technicians, Survey Computer Technicians, Licensed paced materials manufacturing and contracting company. You will have daily interacwith employees and customers as numerous truckloads of material cross our scales Land Surveyors, Civil Engineers, from 4/9/2018 tion daily.AVAILABLE We are willing to train the right individual that has a great attitude. NO PHONE VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS through 12/31/2018. Interested parties can contact us CALLS PLEASE. Reply to Hiring Manager, PO Box 1776, East Granby, CT 06026.

EOE/M/F/D/V. at HOME 860-376-2006 or submit yourHouse resume INC, on behalf of Columbus andto theJfaulise@ New Haven Housing Authority, boundariesllc.net.

AA/EOEfor studio and one-bedroom apartments at this develis accepting pre-applications

DELIVERY PERSON NEEDED Part Time Delivery Needed One/Two Day a Week,

The Glendower Group, Inc

opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y Request for Proposals CARPENTER 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) Market have Research and Brand Positioning Large CTreceived Fence Company carpenterINC. for our Wood Fence Probeen at thelooking officesforofa HOME Applications will be mailied upon reduction Experience preferred will train the rightduring person.those Must hours. be questShop. by calling HOME INC but at 203-562-4663 Completed prefamiliar with carpentry hand & power tools and be able to read a CAD draw- The Glendower Group, Inc an affiliate of Housing Authority City mustThis beisreturned HOME INC’s offices 171 Orange Street, Third ingapplications and tape measure. an in-shoptoproduction position.

Dutiesatinclude of New Haven d/b/a Elm city Communities is currently seeking Floor,fence Newpanels, Haven, CT gates 06510. building posts, and more. Some pickup & delivery of materials may also 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

NOTICIA

Must Have Own Vehicle If Interested call

(203) 435-1387

proposals for Market Research and Brand Positioning. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems. com/gateway beginning on Monday, May 21, 2018 at 3:00PM

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

The Town of East Haven

HOME INC, en nombre de lafor Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está Request Proposals Payroll & Other Human Resource Management aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo Systems Services ubicado en la calle 109 Frankand Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 The Housing Authority of New Haven d/b/a Elm City (aproximadamente The Town of East Haven is committed to building a workforce of diverse individuals. julio, 2016 hasta cuandoofsethe hanCity recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes 100) Handicapped and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Communities is currently seeking Bids en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición for Payroll & Other Human Resource Management Systems and llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse Services. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained . a las Elm oficinas de Vendor HOME INC en 171 Orange tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510KMK Insulation Inc. from City’s Collaboration PortalStreet, https://newhaven-

is currently accepting applications from qualified candidates for the position of General Foreman, Streets and Highways. The starting salary is $68,379.00 per year and the town offers an excellent benefit package. Only candidates with at least 8 years of experience in the construction, maintenance and servicing of highways, streets and drainage with at least 4 years of supervisory experience, High School Diploma or GED and a CDL, class 2 will be considered. Applications are available at Mayor’s Office, 250 Main Street, East Haven CT or online at http://www.townofeasthavenct. org/civiltest.shtml. The deadline for submission is June 8, 2018.

housing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on Monday, April 16, 2018 at 9:00AM.

Welder:

Minorities, Females,

1907 Hartford Turnpike North Haven, CT 06473

Mechanical Insulator position.

Insulation company offering good pay and benefits.

Request for Proposals IT and Computer Support Services The Housing Authority of the City of Bristol

The Housing Authority of the City of Bristol is seeking a qualified company, firm or team to provide Information Technology and Computer Support Services throughout the agency. Proposals must be stamped received by 1:00 p.m. on July 6, 2018.

Starting June 11, 2018, a copy of the request for qualifications and scope of services can be obtained at the Bristol Housing Authority, 164 Jerome Ave., Bristol, CT 06010 during business hours (M/W/F 8:30a-4:30p, Tues. 8:30a-1:00p, Thurs. 1:00-4:30p), or at projectdog.com, or by contacting Yvonne Tirado, Special Projects & Procurement Mgr. at ytirado@bristolhousing.org/(860) 585-2039, or by contacting Carl Johnson, Director of Capital Funds at cjohnson@bristolhousing.org/(860) 585-2028.

Large CT fence & guardrail contractor Please mail resume to above address.. MAIL ONLY An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer This company is an Affirmative Action/ looking for a shop welder. Duties include but are not lim Equal Opportunity Employer.

Invitation to Bid: ited to welding & fabricating gates, plating posts, truck and Ave 2nd Notice trailer repairs. Must be 242-258 able to weldFairmont steel and aluminum.

GUILFORD HOUSING AUTHORITY Some road2BR work Townhouse, may be required. 1.5 All necessary equipment BA, 3BR, 1 levelThe , 1BA provided. Must have a valid CT driver’s license and be able is currently accepting applications for COUPLES ONLY for its one All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & apartments I-95 bedroom at Guilford Court and Boston Terrace inOld GuilSaybrook, CTHousing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT is requesting The to obtain a DOT medical card. Required to pass a physical social highways, near bus stop & shopping centerford, CT. Applicants must be age 62 and over or on 100% (4 Buildings, 17 Units) and drug test. Medical, vacation & other benefits included. security or federal disability and over the age of 18. Applications proposals for Copier Lease and Maintenance Service.

Proposal documents can be viewed and printed at www.norwalkha.org under the Business section RFP’s/RFQ’s Norwalk Housing is an Equal under 40lb allowed.

Interested parties contact Maria Please Pet email resume to pboucher@atlasoutdoor.com AA/@ 860-985-8258 Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project may be obtained by calling the application line at 203-453-6262, Opportunity Employer. Thomas Hickey, Interim Executive Director.

EOE-MF ext. 107. An information packet will also be provided with the ap-

NEW HAVEN

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

plication. Applications willNew be accepted until end of Framed, business Housing, day Construction, Wood Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castare procured

POLICE OFFICER in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Competitive examinations will be held for the Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. position ofrequirements.

Police Officer in the Guilford, This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance

CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s on July of31, 2018. Credit, police, and landlord checks Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday,by August 20, 2016 1:30the authority.

Smoke free housing.

3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HOUSING

Class A CDL Driver

St. New Haven, with CT 3 years min. exp. HAZMAT Endorsed.

(Tractor/Triaxle/Roll-off) Some overnights may be required. FAX resumes to RED Technologies, at 860.342-1042; Email: HR@redtechllc.com Mail or in person: 173 Pickering Street, Portland, CT 06480. RED Technologies, LLC is An EOE.

NEW HAVEN EARLY CHILHDOOD COUNCIL REQUEST FOR QUALITY ENHANCEMENT PROPOSALS

North Haven, Orange, Seymour, West Haven and

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, Woodbridge 2016 SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY Police Departments.

The New Haven Early Childhood Council isAnticipated seeking toStart: August 15, 2016

Centrally Located Construction CompanyAuthority in Connecticut Sealed bids are invited by the Housing of the Town of quality Seymour fund enhancement (QE) projects for the period available via ftp link below: Project documents positions availableAugust for experienced Candidates may register for the testing process untilhas 3:00 pm on Tuesday, 2, 2016 project at its office at 28July Smith Street, 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 for the following services: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage managers, laborers and truck drivers.

Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the www.policeapp.com/southcentral.

This company is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F. • on-site education consultation to prek programs Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

• mental health resources for children and families in prek programs; Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com Females and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

• professional development trainings related to CT Early Standards, HCC encourages theLearning participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Please fax resume to ATTN: Mike to 860-669-7004. trauma informed care and topics required

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.

by School Readiness and NAEYC.

TRANSFER STATION LABORER

Off load trailers, reload for trans/disp. Lift 50 lbs., operate industrial powered trucks and forklift.

Asbestos Worker Handler Training a +. Resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 173 Pickering St., Portland, CT 06480; Fax 860-342-1022; or Email to lkelly@redtransfer.com RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

Application deadline is Wednesday, June 20, 2018.

Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

An info session will be held Monday, May 12th from 2-3pm at 54 Meadow

Street, conference Ofroom 3B. To receive the RFP and for established rates for each Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority service type, contact the School Readiness office fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

Denised@nhps.net 203-946-7875.

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

at

21

The physical performance, written, and oral board exams will be administered by the South Central Criminal Justice Administration.

THE DEPARTMENTS PARTICIPATING IN THIS RECRUITMENT DRIVE ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

The Oldest Black-Owned Restaurant in the U.S. -- In Business For More Than 100 Years!

by Gemma Greene, BDO Staff Writer

With the onslaught of police-led shootings and killings against Black men and women, unjustly rulings from the courts handing down years in jail, many wonder what it would be like if there were more men and women of color in the criminal justice system.

Well, one city has done it and has officially changed history.

The City of South Fulton, Georgia’s fifth largest city, is the first city in American history where every criminal justice department head is an African American woman.

Chief of Police Sheila Rogers is a career law enforcement professional with more than twenty-six years experience.

Chief Rogers is the city’s first police chief and one of a few women police chief around the country.

Chief Judge Tiffany Carter Sellers is a University of Georgia law school graduate and the City’s first chief judge. Judge Sellers was selected through a panel of experienced judges from the surrounding community.

According to The Atlanta Voice, Judge Sellers hired and appointed the Court Administrator, Lakesiya Cofield, and the City’s first Chief Court Clerk, Ramona Howard.

Also appointed to represent the two equally important components of any criminal justice system were two attorneys, City Solicitor LaDawn “LBJ” Jones, who prosecutes the cases and City Public Defender Viveca Famber Powell, who defends those accused of crimes.

Together these African American women make up all the portions of the criminal justice system in the new city.

No other time in American history has

black women been appointed to the top position in every department in an entire cities criminal justice system.

No other time in American history have women made up all of a city first.

This has never happened before…until now.

“Our goal is to ensure justice for everyone,” Sellers said to The Atlanta Voice.

“However, as African American women we are sensitive to the history of criminal justice in our country. We want to be an example of how to do things right.”

There’s something to be said about a town or city that has a large population of African Americans in the Criminal Justice system: the number of deaths decreases.

When black officers reach 25% ratio in the force, the rate of fatal policeinvolved incidents levels off. A 2015 study found that once a police department became about 40 percent black, the trendline flipped — the more black officers a department has after that point, the less likely the incidence of fatal encounters with black people. But the study suggests that what departments really need isn’t just to simply add more black officers, but to reach a critical mass of black officers. In fact, so many black officers that they would be overrepresented relative to the local black population. (Very few local police departments reached that 40-percent mark. The researchers looked at the 100 largest cities in the country, and only 15 had police forces with that proportion of black officers.)

Under Sellers’s leadership, the demographics of the court are just the beginning. She has incorporated municipal court policies not found in other systems including guaranteed access to an attorney, a robust diversion program

that is infused into the court process, and overall respect for victims and the accused alike.

Sellers insists on courtroom decorum that shows respect to the accused, victims, and visitors. The court also insists on giving each person and their case the respect they deserve from the moment they walk in the door.

Further, Sellers spends much of her time ensuring everyone fully understand what is happening in the system. The hope is to restore faith in the justice system for many of the citizens who have had less than stellar experiences in other courts.

The city’s pre-trial diversion program will allow offenders to keep a clean record in exchange for community service, education, and… … counseling where appropriate. The diversion program, “Second Chance South Fulton,” is paid for by the court budget and overseen by the City Solici-

tor, LaDawn “LBJ” Jones.

Many cities of this size do not have diversion programs.

“One of the primary purposes of laws is to protect citizens and the city,” Jones explained. “You can do that without sending everyone to jail or enforce high fees. Most people do better when they know better.”

Another progressive component of the court system is the appointment of the public defender. In most jurisdictions, a public defender is only assigned after someone proves they cannot afford a private attorney.

In South Fulton, everyone that appears before the court has an opportunity to receive appointed counsel prior to making a decision on their case.

“Although we handle misdemeanors, the cases can have serious long-term effects on the person accused,” Powell said. “Having an opportunity to advise clients ensures justice is received by

all.”

In all matters, whether it is the operation of the probation department or bond considerations, the city, as well as the rights of the victims and defendant are considered.

The City of South Fulton will grow as citizens looking for a place to settle chose to live in a community where they are reassured that the police and courts in their city will be partners in making the community better.

In the City of South Fulton’s justice system, African Americans are far less likely to be arrested, prosecuted, or detained in custody because of incidents like those seen in recent news. These assurances help law-abiding citizens, particularly African Americans, feel less tense when they see blue lights in their rearview.

In addition to making history, South Fulton may become an example for the rest of the country.

With Poor Treatment of African Immigrants, Prime Minister Netanyahu Shows Limits of Israel’s Democracy

By Bill Fletcher, Jr. NNPA Newswire Columnist In my last column, I addressed the murder of Palestinian protesters by Israeli state officers. The racial politics of the Israeli state were also demonstrated by another recent action: the April 3 reneging on an agreement on the handling of African migrants.

The Israeli political establishment goes out of its way to present Israel as

a civilized democracy. The hypocrisy of this can, of course, be seen in the apartheid system created to oppress and suppress the Palestinian people.

But it can also be demonstrated in actions towards African migrants.

Over the years, African migrants, seeking refugee from war, political repression, poverty, and environmental devastation, have entered Israel in search of a safe haven. This population, which Prime Minister Netanyahu and his right-wing clique have termed “infiltrators,” has come to occupy a rung in the social hierarchy reserved for poor and disenfranchised labor.

Much like undocumented workers in the United States, these African mi-

grants are subject to various forms of abuse including harassment from employers and government alike. In January 2014, on a visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, I witnessed demonstrations by African migrants in Tel Aviv as part of a protest against the barbaric treatment that they have received when imprisoned.

The Netanyahu administration originally came to an agreement with the United Nations—after threatening to deport these migrants to their countries of origin—to send them to safer locations. Returning the migrants to their countries of origin would, in some cases, be nothing short of a death sentence.

22

On April 3, the Netanyahu administration put this deal on hold, throwing into uncertainty, the fate of the African migrants. Allegedly due to pressure from his right-wing allies, Netanyahu changed his mind, leaving the status of the migrants unclear, but also leaving unclear whether there are to be further negotiations towards an acceptable resolution of this crisis.

The Israeli political establishment over the years has made Israel available to anyone claiming Jewish heritage. Thousands of Russians entered Israel after the collapse of the USSR irrespective of their ability to prove their alleged Jewish origins. A line, however, has been drawn when it

comes to African migrants and in this line one can see evidence of the racial politics of the Israeli state.

The democratic face of Israel is crumbling as it becomes more repressive against generalized dissent; as it strengthens the apartheid system against the Palestinian people; and as it ramps up its xenophobic attacks on African migrants. There are no further excuses that can be made nor justifications accepted.

Bill Fletcher, Jr. is the former president of TransAfrica Forum, a talk show host, writer and activist. Follow him on Twitter @BillFletcherJr, Facebook and at www.billfletcherjr.com.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - June 06, 2018 - June 12, 2018

Activist Director Discusses His New Play about Historic School Integration Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj is an IndoAfro-Caribbean American artist, educator and activist. As a playwright, Maharaj has authored several plays, including Little Rock, winner of the 2015 Barrymore Award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Play.

He also wrote Daisy, inspired by the life and legacy of Daisy Lee Bates; and Hansberry/Baldwin. Rajendra’s other commissioned work includes Diss Diss and Dis Dat, a hip-hop musical, and Children of the Dream.

He has served as artist-in-residencies with New Freedom Theatre, Alliance Theatre, Kennedy Center, Crossroads Theatre and Arkansas Repertory Theatre, as well as Amas Musical Theatre and Nuyorican Poets Café in NYC. And he is the former Artistic Director of New Freedom Theatre in Philadelphia.

Recipient of the Woodie King Jr. Award for Outstanding Direction, four Vivian Robinson AUDELCO Awards for his direction and choreography, and the S.A.L.T. Award for Director of the year.

Rajendra is an alumnus of Lincoln Center Directors Lab and TCG Young Leaders of Color in the American Theater.

Here, he talks about his latest offering, Little Rock, an Off-Broadway production he wrote and directed which is being staged at The Sheen Center for Thought & Culture located at 18 Bleecker St. in lower Manhattan. The play tells the riveting true story of the Little Rock Nine, the first black students to desegregate Little Rock Central High School.

Kam Williams: Hi Rajendra, thanks for the opportunity to interview you.

Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj: Hello, Kam! It’s nice to speak with you.

KW: What inspired you to track down each member of the Little Rock Nine?

RRM: I was really inspired by learning about their contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. And, the story continued to stay with me. As a documentary theatre-maker, I’ve always found that the actual testimonies of people who have lived through history from their own lips is most compelling.

Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj The “Little Rock” Interview with Kam Williams

as well as a story that teaches us all of the power of youth to be an agent of change in our society. Lastly, it is a reminder of a time when Republicans, Democrats, whites and blacks could come together despite challenges and history.

KW: What was the last book you read?

RRM: I recently re-read “The Autobiography of Malcolm X.” KW: Ling-Ju Yen asks: What is your earliest childhood memory?

RRM: I remember sitting with my grandmother in her kitchen and her telling me fantastical tales and stories about our family and their journey from Haiti, Bahamas, India, and Trinidad to the United States of America.

KW: Was there a meaningful spiritual component to your childhood?

RRM: Yes, I grew up in a household that was very spiritual. My father was Hindu and my mother is a devout Roman Catholic. I carry those values both in my personal as well as artistic life.

Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj RRM: I think that The Little Rock Nine realized, as children, that, as American citizens, they were guaranteed certain unalienable rights. When Brown vs.

Board of Ed. became the law of the land, they seized on the opportunity, not just for themselves but for generations yet unborn to have the opportunity of equality in public education across the nation.

That’s what makes them both prophetic and courageous beyond their young age.

KW: Were they shocked at the hostile reception they had received integrating Little Rock Central High School back in the Fifties?

RRM: Yes. Little Rock in 1957 was considered a moderate Southern city, when it came to race-relations. So, no one expected the unimaginable wave of racism, ignorance and hatred that these children, as well as their families, faced for the entire school year.

KW: Did any of them resent the fact that they had been exposed to so much hate at such a young age?

RRM: I think all of them felt the legacy of Jim Crow and segregation throughout their lives. But what set them apart was that they realized none of the actions that were directed at them mentally, physically or emotionally had anything to do with them. What the segregationists did was a reflection of themselves, and a sobering reminder of their humanity and deficiencies.

KW: How would you say their lives were shaped by serving as civil rights pioneers?

KW: Which one of their reflections surprised you the most?

RRM: I was really touched by all of

their testimonies. However, I’m still deeply moved, daily, by the courage that 15 year-old Elizabeth Eckford showed the world when she walked to school by herself and faced a mob that wanted to lynch her. The dignity, grace, and fortitude that she showed the world continues to inspire me when I have to face my own mobs and critics when doing the right thing.

KW: Was there a thread that ran through all their narratives?

RRM: Yes, they were all incredibly courageous as well as determined to follow the law.

KW: When did you get the idea about writing a play about them?

RRM: I was directing a production at Arkansas Repertory Theatre. I had a day off and went to visit Little Rock Central High School. It changed the trajectory of my life. Here we are 13 years later, about to open the show Off-Broadway. It’s a dream come true as well as a full-circle moment, particularly because this is the 60th anniversary of the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. Little

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Rock is a play that bears witness to the best and worst parts of our country and its legacy in regards to race relations. It is also a cautionary reminder, as we look at the current state of politics, to not turn the clock back. That is something that some forces in our country are trying to do.

KW: How did you decide what to include?

RRM: I knew that I wanted to focus on the school year and wanted all nine of them represented. Through readings, workshops and productions, I arrived at this current draft which focuses on the Crisis for the Nine between the 1957 and 1958 school year. The first act is the journey to get into the school. The second act focuses on the day to day struggles and triumphs that The Little Rock Nine and their families encountered as they fought to integrate Little Rock Central High School.

KW: What message do you want the audience to take away from the play?

RRM: I think that it’s a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome,

KW: What is your favorite dish to cook?

RRM: Curry vegetables with brown rice.

KW: When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

RRM: A work in progress.

KW: What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

RRM: When I was pledging my fraternity, we had a scavenger hunt that included us running through an airport in costumes. That was pretty crazy.

KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for?

RRM: That people would understand the power of words to do good or to do harm in the world.

KW: The Tavis Smiley question: How do you want to be remembered?

RRM: I’d like to be remembered as an artist, activist and citizen of the world who used the theater as an opportunity for conversation, discourse, unity and healing.

KW: Finally, as Samuel L. Jackson asks: What’s in your wallet?

RRM: Cash, family photos and several Chinese cookie fortunes.

KW: Thanks again for the time, Rajendra, and best of luck with Little Rock.

RRM: Thank you, Kam. It was really wonderful to chat with you. Eyes on the prize!

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