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INNER-CITY INNER-CITY

A Broken Umbrella Makes (A)Pizza A Family Affair

Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

Frankie sat her daughter down at the counter of their pizza restaurant, a Foxon Park Soda in one hand as the other grazed her apron. It was late, and still the floors needed sweeping, the flour bins re-filling. Behind them, flames danced in the pizza oven. She took a glass, and the sound of bubbles whispered through the air. "La magia dell'Apizza" began to crackle to life.

That flour-dusted scene came to the pizza restaurant Next Door last Sunday, as members of A Broken Umbrella Theatre (ABUT) rehearsed A Slice (Of What's To Come), a new work in progress that celebrates New Haven's rich apizza culture. Part love story, part history and part musical theater, A Slice celebrates both pizza and family, paying homage to the generations who have thrown dough, managed the books, devised new pies and charmed thousands of customers to create a culinary tradition.

It comes to the International Festival of Arts & Ideas next week, in a preview of a full show that will debut in 2025. A Slice runs at Next Door at 175 Humphrey St. on June 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets and more information are available here.

"Oftentimes, when you eat pizza, it's with a bunch of people you don't really know that well, or it's this deeply rooted family tradition," said Jes Mack, who is co-directing A Slice alongside ABUT Artistic Director Ruben Ortiz. As she spoke, she nibbled on a still-hot triangle of Next Door's eggplant rollatini pie. "People have strong feelings, right?"

Set in 1929, 1949, and 1989, A Slice tells the story of three generations of the Carbonizzatos, an Italian American family whose work is shaped as much by culinary prowess as it is by immigration, language, urban renewal, and old world tradition. While Pete, Sr. (who we don't see) technically owns the restaurant, it's his wife Lucrezia (Susan Kulp) who keeps the joint running. Around her, business buzzes, bringing with it a full cast of characters to tell the story. The great majority of them are related, reminding viewers that pizza, at least in New Haven, is very much a family affair.

Told in a non-linear way—the audience jumps from 1989 to 1929 to 1949 and back—it becomes a piece that is as much about mother-daughter relationships, generational trust building, and what it means to pass on a legacy as it is about the pies that bind.

Lucrezia, who insists on consistency and tradition, butts heads with her daughter Francesca or Frankie (Remsen Welsh), who in turn butts heads with her daughter Janice (Alice McGill). Pete, Jr. (Otto Fuller) seems like the heir apparent, until World War II upends the world as they know it. As time passes, the audience sees the work that goes into keeping the busi-

ness afloat, including during multiple recessions and seismic changes for the city.

In the thick of it all, characters like Cousin Mike (Matthew Gaffney) and Uncle Jimmy (Lou Mangini), Enzo (Ortiz) and Muhammad (Noah Brown), Charlie (Jonah Alderman, and later Ian Alderman) and a sweet Sinatra-esque crooner named Bruno (Shane Quinn), are there to throw decades of dough, fire up the ovens, and add some much-needed salt and seasoning to the script. The result is a work in progress that oozes as much heart as a good cheese pie, still piping hot from the coal-fired oven.

The work has been baking for over a year. Last summer, Ortiz began to toss around the idea of a pizza show, but wasn't sure how exactly to put it together. Working out of its Blake Street hub, ABUT began to host weekly "creation sessions," dedicated to brainstorming and improvisation. Mack and Ortiz gave attendees prompts, from writing nuptial vows to pizza to sharing family food traditions. They improvised, acting out different pizza-adjacent characters like chefs, waitstaff and delivery truck drivers. They ate pies from across the city, teasing out differences in crust, toppings, levels of char and personal pizza histories.

Members also sat down with resident historian Colin Caplan, whose love for apizza has birthed Taste of New Haven,

the New Haven Grand Prix, and his 2018 book, Pizza In New Haven. Over pizza— because of course—Caplan took the company through New Haven pizza history, from the geographic specificity of Naples and Amalfi to the web of family members who birthed The Holy Pizza Trinity (Pepe's, Sally's, and Modern, iykyk), then kept growing their footprint ever outward.

By February, Mack and Ortiz were in the thick of writing. While the two have their own favorite pies, they tried to spread the love across the city's pizza landscape, from San Marzano tomatoes and baskets of briney, fresh clams to mashed potato slices topped with bacon and broccoli. As they worked, ABUT members also connected with Next Door owner Doug Coffin and the International Festival of Arts & Ideas.

Coffin, whose roots go back to the New Haven Food Co-Op, taught them to throw dough, sprinkle cornmeal and choose toppings. When it became clear that the show would need more people—there are a total of 16 cast members—Mack and Ortiz also brought in new performers, from veteran performer Susan Kulp to kids who have grown up in and alongside the company (Jonah Alderman and Otto Fuller were literally born into it; Alice McGill is a current ECA student and Westvillian, while Noah Brown is a recent ECA grad).

The result is a love letter to the Elm City

gan throwing cornmeal-colored discs of dough, their fingers working its putty-like surface.

Around her, the sounds of pizza bloomed: garlic and tomatoes, pizza wheels working their way through soft pies and crackly crusts, sweet, carbonated soda. As she followed along on a script, Mack filled in narration and sound effects. In another scene, Frankie struggled to understand her own daughter, Janice, as she experimented in the kitchen. As the two orbited each other like magnetic, agitated atoms, it seemed that something had to give. From the floor, Frankie started at a spot on the wall where a portrait of Lucrezia would soon hang.

A beat, and she softened. She walked over to Janice.

"I pushed you, just like my mother pushed me. To keep tradition, create consistency, legacy," she started. "I don’t want to make you someone you’re not." Just an hour beforehand, cast members had paused for a lunch break, and used it to learn a few tricks of the trade. Between a counter and a pizza oven, Next Door Owner Doug Coffin dressed pies with an Olympic-level agility, reaching for toppings as he chatted with members of the cast.

and its residents, past and present. On Wooster Street, Pepe's opened with a bread oven and a culinary dream in June 1925. Sally's followed in 1938 and grew through the 1940s, including a visit from Frank Sinatra in 1941. Less than a mile away on State Street, Modern—which started as Tony's Apizza in 1934— changed hands from Nick Nuzzo to Bill and Mary Pustari in 1988

A Slice pulls from all of these, with reverent nods to quick-thinking matriarchs like Filomena Pepe and Flo Consiglio who made the businesses possible. It also recognizes newer additions to the landscape—Ernie's, Zuppardi's, Old World, BAR and Brick Oven just to name a few.

To clinch the deal, "Carbonizzato" translates from Italian to "charred"—a signature aspect of any true New Haven pie.

"We're honoring all [of the pizza restaurants] at the same time, while being connected to something bigger that people can relate to, which is family," Ortiz said.

"At the end of the night, the show is inspired by pizza, but it's about family."

At Sunday’s rehearsal, those months of work came to life in every corner of the restaurant. At the center of a makeshift stage, Bruno (Quinn) conjured "la magia dell'Apizza," pulling Frankie (Welsh) into a symphony of kitchen sounds with the simple extension of his arm. Behind the pizza counter, two family members be-

A longtime restaurateur, caterer, and former member of the New Haven Food CoOp, Coffin entered New Haven pizza history when he put a wood-fired pizza oven on wheels in 2003. With its heavy green siding and fold-out kitchen, the Big Green Pizza Truck has since become an instantly recognizable part of the city.

"This is fun," Coffin said of the performance, sprinkling mozzarella on a pie before adding generous dabs of ricotta. "You get used to seeing the same walls and the same things going on every day. It's such a delight to see new people in this space. On the day of, it'll be a bit of an adventure."

As pies emerged from the oven, Coffin passed them to Jonah Alderman, who worked a pizza cutter against the steaming surfaces. Beside him, Ian remembered working years ago as a "dresser" alongside Pepe's co-owner Gary Bimonte. Decades later, he tapped Coffin to cater his wedding. To stage A Slice at Next Door— in his son’s ABUT debut—feels like a full-circle moment.

"We love innovation," he said, pausing to theatrically announce that an eggplant rigot was coming up, fresh from the oven. "As the company that brought theater on the road, we loved that they brought pizza on the road."

"Honest to God," chimed in producer Aric Issacs. "If there's one thing that we already sort of know, but that this process has hammered home, our pizza here— just about any pizza place here—is going to be better than any pizza place almost anywhere else."

Amid Great Loss, Jaysen Still Graduated

by ABIBA BIAO

After losing his father Louis Ortiz and four other family members in a matter of months during his time in high school, Metropolitan Business Academy senior Jaysen Anthony Threet didn’t think he’d cross the graduation stage.

But, last Thursday, he beat the odds. Each step across the stage marked his determination. He didn’t go without shedding a couple tears, before embracing former Metro Principal Sequella Coleman and remembering the support he received from faculty and the weight of his achievement.

Threet shared that moment along with 89 other graduates from Metropolitan Business Academy at graduation last Thursday. The ceremony was held in Fair Haven School’s auditorium on Grand Avenue.

Threet relished the moment outside of Fair Haven School after Thursday’s graduation ceremony had ended.

“I feel good, I don’t even know if words can explain,” he said.

Threet’s joy came after a wave of sorrow during his time at Metro. He said he lost his father, his cousin Jovani Ortiz, his aunts Mara Gomes and Thia Carmen, and his grandmother, whom he affectionately called Lela, all in a matter of months.

Despite the difficulties and stressors in

his personal life, Threet still made a point to attend school, not letting his circumstances affect his attendance. School became a grounding place for him, giving him ways to emotionally decompress.

“My favorite part about high school is being able to go to school and be happy. Even though I got stuff going on, I was able to go next to my friends and stuff and

keep a smile on my face,” he said. His motivation throughout it all was his unwavering perseverance and support from faculty members like school counselor Heidi Pitkin.

“Before I transferred into the school I talked to her over the phone [and] had like an hour [-long] conversation just about my life,” he said. “That definitely

locked us in.”

It’s this same mentality that he suggests to other students, emphasizing the importance of earning a high school diploma.

“Life do get real, so you just gotta finish school, do what you could to make sure you’re great and you good.”

Threet wasn’t the only Metro student celebrating the accomplishment of gradu-

ation after Thursday’s ceremony. Taking pictures together were John Carlos Bustillo and Nada Zaimsassi.

A Branford native, Bustillo said he struggled at first to fit in at Metro, but was ultimately was able to find his way and made many connections, including with his best friend Zaimsassi.

“I came here just to experience a new culture, a new kind of people, and I think that Metro really exhibits that beauty of New Haven,” he said. “Different types of people come to Metro to learn, to grow, [and] to prosper and I think that’s what Metro has been for me.”

During his time at Metro, Bustillo earned honors, a Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish, and completed an internship with an East Haven attorney. These accomplishments were all represented by the many chords around his neck, not to mention the medals he got.

Bustillo is now heading off to Hamilton College in upstate New York to study government and art history.

“I don’t know what I’ll do without him,” said Zaimsassi, who still has a year to go before graduating.

“Don’t say that!” he responded.

Math teacher Bobbie Davis couldn’t find a better word to describe the moment than “amazing” seeing her previous stu

Con’t on page

Graduate Anaesha T. Miller with family.

The new haven independent

Breaking News: Baseball Legend

Willie Mays Dies at 93

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire National Correspondent

Willie Mays, the iconic Hall of Famer often hailed as the greatest player in baseball history, has died at 93. The news broke during a Mets and Rangers game in Arlington, evoking emotional tributes from the baseball community.

“He was the greatest I had ever seen on the field,” said Keith Hernandez, a New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals legend, tearfully during the broadcast. Hernandez, who now serves as a color commentator for the Mets, reflected on Mays’ remarkable skills. “Willie would play a shallow centerfield, making it all the more amazing how he’d catch fly balls against the wall,” added Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen. “He was the greatest ever to play.”

Just a day prior, it was announced that Mays would not attend a special game honoring him and the Negro Leagues. Scheduled for Thursday, June 20, at Rickwood Field, the game features the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals. Mays, who began his career with the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, had shared his plans to enjoy the event from home. “I’m not able to get to Birmingham this year but will follow the game back here in the Bay Area,” he told the San Francisco Chronicle earlier in the week. “My heart will be with all of you who are honoring the Negro League ballplayers, who should always be remembered, including all my teammates on the Black Barons.”

Mays’ career spanned from 1951 to 1972 with the Giants, where he won a World Series in 1954, was a 24-time All-Star, and was a twotime National League MVP. Among many other accomplishments, his 660 home runs and 12 Gold Gloves highlight his legendary status. The home run total came despite having taken a two-year hiatus from baseball to serve in the military and having played in the three toughest stadiums to hit home runs — The

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By Stacy M. Brown

Polo Grounds, Candlestick Park, and Shea Stadium.

Major League Baseball, the city of Birmingham, and the Friends of Rickwood nonprofit group have collaborated to renovate Rickwood Field, the oldest professional ballpark in the United States, to honor Mays and the Negro Leagues. Despite his absence, Mays will be celebrated throughout the week’s festivities.

“My father has passed away peacefully and among loved ones,” Mays’ son, Michael Mays, announced. “I want to thank you all from the bottom of my broken heart for the unwavering love you have shown him over the years. You have been his life’s blood.”

Mays was not only a baseball legend but also a cherished figure in San Francisco. His 9-foot bronze statue stands proudly at Oracle Park’s 24 Willie Mays Plaza. He was eager to see MLB’s tribute at Rickwood Field, where he began his career.

Known for his exceptional fivetool abilities—hitting, power hitting, fielding, throwing, and baserunning—Mays also possessed an unmatched strategic acumen. In 2015, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama, who acknowledged Mays’ impact on sports and society. “It’s because of giants like Willie that someone like me could even think about running for president,” Obama remarked.

Mays was dedicated to helping others throughout his life, notably through his Say Hey Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth. “I do what I can for people, man,” Mays said in a 2021 interview. “When the kids ask me for something, I give it to them. Let them have it because they’re going to be here after I’m gone, and I want the kids to enjoy what they can enjoy.”

A career batting average of.302, 3,283 hits, and numerous honors define Mays’ legacy. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

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Jaysen Still Graduated

dents all grown up, flaunting their gowns and cords.

Davis’ introduction to Desiree Celise Rivera and her classmates was at Clinton Avenue School where she taught seventh and eighth grade math for five years. Now, Davis teaches math at Amity Middle School and has made it her mission to see her past students walk across the stage.

“This is my second graduation today,” she said. “I have two more to go to tomorrow. They’re spread out all over New Haven and I’m going to all of them and loving every minute of it.”

Davis still recalls Rivera’s energy and commitment to her class.

“Desiree: I love her to death. She was one student, she struggled so much in math and she never gave up. She was absolutely amazing and she still calls me all the time and texts me,” she said.

Rivera carried on that perseverance throughout high school, earning honors and a Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish.

“I was waiting to graduate but now that I graduated … I’m gonna miss it [Metro] for sure and my friends and stuff,” Rivera said, “but I’m happy that I graduated and I could just move forward and actually chase my dreams.”

Rivera also gave a shout out to Senior Class Advisor Stephen Staysniak and school counselor Heidi Pitkin as being key supporters throughout her educational journey.

“The number one teacher I’ll go to was Stays. He was definitely my first teacher since being on Zoom,” she said.

Rivera plans to enroll at Gateway Community College to become an ultrasound technician before transferring to Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) to achieve her dream occupation of becoming a NICU nurse.

Out on the lawn of Fair Haven Middle, Metro graduate Anesha T. Miller was the center of attention. Surrounded by family and friends, Miller took pictures with people individually before gathering for a group photo.

Miller will be going to study radiology in Florida, as she wants to “try something new” and be in the medical field.

Like other students, Miller admitted that she struggled with remote learning and not being able to get necessary help from teachers, but was able to rebound after coming in person.

“It was a struggle at first, but I got through it,” she said. “It was fun because of the people I met. And, you know, I fell out with people, but that don’t matter. I still graduated!”

Miller had a word of advice for seniors and underclassmen.

“Take junior year seriously because some of us didn’t take it as serious until we realized what it was until senior year. Do what you have to do your junior year and don’t skip classes. Just keep going.”

Eyeing Bright Futures, 360 Graduate Cross

by MAYA MCFADDEN

Aspiring electrician Nakarie Wills, pediatric nurse to-be Nathalie Hiraldo, and future music producer CheMi “CJ” McGee all walked across the Wilbur Cross graduation stage taking big steps closer to their post-high school dreams.

Those Cross seniors were three of 360 students to graduate from the city’s largest high school Thursday during a ceremony held at Cross’ athletic fields at 181 Mitchell Dr. Wilbur Cross Principal Matt Brown, who also finished his first full year at the helm of the comprehensive high school, celebrated his students that made it through Covid, unstable school leadership, and typical and not so typical high school and life circumstances.

A crowd of hundreds of family members filled in the fields’ bleachers, cheering on speakers and graduates throughout the twohour ceremony. While listening to the ceremony’s lineup of speakers, the graduates occasionally turned around to give their parents a wave or thumbs up. Others played a few games of rock, paper, scissors or took selfies with flower- and flagdecorated graduation caps.

Thursday’s keynote speaker was Karen DuBois-Walton, the executive director of the city’s public housing authority. She agreed that the students’ high school journeys were unlike any other, and commended the grads’ adaptability. “Be present. Be authentic. Be intentional,” she said. “Take up space, Class of 2024.”

Superintendent Madeline Negrón reminded the class that “you earned it. Nobody else on this field earned it for you.”

Thursday’s stage was the second one senior Dakota Brewer walked this week. In addition to Cross’ Thursday, she also joined her Riverside class’ graduation on Tuesday at the Betsy Ross School Parish Hall in the Hill.

Brewer attended Cross for her first three years of high school and then transferred to Riverside for her senior year. She recalled the challenges of high school over the years but was able to celebrate each of them after crossing Thursday’s graduation stage a second and final

time. “It took a lot to get here,” she said. Throughout the past four years Brewer worked to improve her attitude that caused her to often get into trouble. She learned to ignore people looking to cause problems and “not let things get to me,” she said, thanks to her mother’s motivation and support.

Nakarie Wills recalled his freshman year being “scary” and “awkward” because of remote learning during the first year of the Covid pandemic. His sophomore year was awkward as well, he said, because of the students’ requirement to wear masks in school. Once getting past that, Wills said he began to open up as other students also adjusted back to being in school in person. It also became easier for him to make friends. “It was like being under lockdown because I’d never been out of school for that long,” he said.

His next steps are trade school to become an electrician, he said.

CheMi “CJ” McGee described feeling excited after crossing Thursday’s stage as he faced the most challenges his senior year. One of those was that Cross was his third high school he transferred to this school year alone. He arrived at Cross in March and has spent the past few months getting back on track to graduate.

“It’s done, and I’m ready for a new era of my life,” he said.

McGee attended Highville Charter School for elementary, middle, and high school up until his senior year. He then transferred to East Haven High where he spent the winter months. His final landing was Cross. He said he transferred schools until he found the right fit and was able to transfer all of his credits. “I wanted to try something else, I was done with it,” he said.

The next obstacle he faced was overcoming “senioritis” for the remainder of the year. He had lost motivation to attend classes but pushed through. “Senioritis tore me up but I got through, no matter what,” he recalled.

Going forward, McGee plans to take the fall semester of college off then search for a school in the spring

that will help him to work towards his dream of being a music producer and making beats. “I just love music. I found myself always listening to music so I wanted to do it myself. I like to put myself to a challenge and try new things just because I can,” he said. His parting advice to high schoolers was to “not slack and make sure you have a plan for the future.”

Nathalie Hiraldo left Thursday’s stage looking forward to starting a new chapter of her life as well. She said she’s excited to learn more about what she wants to do in life and to meet new people. She hopes to one day be a pediatric nurse. While recalling the past four years at Cross, Hiraldo said her freshman year was tough because of the distance remote learning brought to her and her peers. However, when students returned in-person her sophomore year she said she finally was able to “grow a family” at school. That was mostly possible due to her taking a chance on unexpectedly joining Cross’s soccer team. For three years Hiraldo played as the team’s goalkeeper, then this year decided to learn how to be a striker. Being on the team helped Hiraldo learn how to better communicate, work with others, and appreciate both losing and winning.

Hiraldo and her family celebrated her ability to handle her heavy course load while also being a student athlete. Over the past four years Hiraldo was able to get 10 college credits through dual enrollment opportunities offered at Cross. She advised high schoolers that “if you need the help, search for the opportunities.”

Thursday’s salutatorian Ke Ren Tan and valedictorian Sophia Zhang gave thanks to the school staff that often go under-appreciated, like security guards, cafeteria workers, coaches, and guidance counselors, describing them all as mentors. Zhang added that Cross “taught us that ‘we can.’ ”

“We began high school isolated, staring at little profile pictures online,” Zhang said. “Now we’re showing all our faces together. Despite our distance, we faced it together.”

Dakota Brewer with godmother, sister, and nephew.

CheMi "CJ" McGee with girlfriend Bree McNeil.

Nakarie Wills with family.

The new haven independent

"Super" John Tournament Keeps His Memory Alive

Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

Aaliyah Kindred dribbled the basketball, shifting her weight to her left foot. She moved forward, gliding for a second. Her fingers tapped the ball, then let it soar to a teammate. Beneath her feet, the courts glowed green and red. A flat, wide eyeball, placed right at the center, looked as if it was watching her every move.

“Let’s go! Let’s go! Let’s go!” shouted referee Tyrone Grant. Somewhere in the clouds, John Williamson was dribbling along, waiting with bated breath. “Take the layup! Yesssss!”

Saturday, the Goffe Street Courts remained in constant use for the first ever "Super" John Williamson Basketball Tournament, honoring Williamson’s legacy just hours before Father’s Day and within a mile of the Ashmun Street housing projects where he grew up. The brainchild of his daughters Kali and Shareebah Williamson, the tournament marked a year since NXTHVN and the Williamson family officially inaugurated the court, designed by the artist Tschabalala Self after input from several New Haveners.

“It feels amazing,” said Shareebah, praising NXTHVN Creative Director John Dennis for getting the project over the finish line, and assisting with the tournament. “It’s been a long time coming. To see it come to life right now, just in time for Father’s Day, is amazing. I think he’s smiling down on us.”

As Williamson family members gathered beneath a welcome tent, the courts heated up with a pre-tournament youth basketball clinic from the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven and the Connecticut Sun Academy, the youth mentorship arm of the eponymous WNBA team. There for the first time, 12-year-old twins Lailah and Aaliyah Kindred lined up with a group, ready to play.

As young players paired off for crossovers, their eyes stayed on the ball, an orange orb soaring through the air. Aaliyah, who started playing when she was seven, burst into a wide smile as she stepped up to take her turn, and sailed across the court. She threw the ball to Lailah, leaning forward with her arms and shoulders, and she could have been auditioning for Swan Lake or Coppélia.

“It’s doing what I love most,” she said. Growing up between New Haven and Lexington, South Carolina, she’s honed her skills both at school and on courts in both states, including her summertime visits to family in New Haven. She loves the way the sport encourages team members to lift each other up, an aspect of the sport that carries over to everything she does.

“It felt good” to play, she said. She added that the clinic, which had been a welcome surprise in her weekend, helped her work on her dribble, crossover, and baskets.

Across an expanse of red and green, NXTHVN Fellow and artist Adrian Armstrong took a break from his studio practice to shoot hoops. Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, “I always wanted to be creative, but I didn’t know being an artist was a thing until high school,” Armstrong said. In college, he began to focus more closely on Black identity, a precursor to current work that centers and celebrates Black joy.

As he expands his practice at the Henry Street incubator, the nearby courts give him a chance to step away from his work and clear his mind. Until Saturday, however, he hadn’t known much about their history. “It’s a good court!” he said with a smile, adding that he was excited to learn about Super John, before returning to shooting hoops.

Lloyd: “I was dribbling a basketball since I came out the womb."

Across the court from him, lifelong New Havener Taija Lloyd praised the tournament as finally giving Williamson his due—and teaching New Haveners about some of the basketball greatness to come out of the city. Growing up in New Haven, Lloyd fell in love with basketball when she was just four, and joined a game at Farnam Neighborhood House in the city’s Fair Haven neighborhood. Saturday, she was trying to snag a last-minute place on one of the eight teams competing.

“I was dribbling a basketball since I came out the womb,” she joked. Within years, she was playing at a summer skills camp at Ross Woodward Classical Studies Magnet School. She began to work with Coach Tharon Mayes, a former player for the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers, and hone her skills as a member of the Savin Rock Ballerz.

Basketball became her passport, she remembered. As a player for Georgia Highlands College, where she has averaged 21 points per game, she traveled to “literally every state,” including favorite stops in California, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas. This year, she finally received the offer to play for a Division I university (she did not want to comment on the school), a next step in her basketball journey that will begin this fall.

“I just feel free [when I’m playing],” she said.

Back on the court, Connecticut Sun Manager of Youth Development Falecia Porter was on a roll. As players dribbled their way to the hoop on the far left side of the court, her eyes followed every move, darting back and forth as her ponytail swished through the warm air. At one point, she brought students in, so that they formed a loose circle around her.

added: she and Shareebah plan to hold the tournament every year on Father’s Day weekend, and to incorporate as a 501c3 dedicated to basketball this year. As they prepared to celebrate “Super” John’s legacy, the family made matching shirts, printed with a photo of Williamson playing for the New Jersey Nets. On the tent, they hung his Number 23 Jersey over two new Williamson Tournament trophies. By 11 a.m., family members were firing up the grills and trying out a bounce house. “It’s a beautiful thing,” said Brandi Marshall, who is married to Kali Williamson and follows basketball more avidly than her wife. Growing up in the Florence Virtue Homes, “this was always the place where I played,” Marshall said. After watching the Williamsons’ fight for recognition, Saturday felt like a full-circle moment. Even Williamson’s doctor had come out for a few hours to celebrate, she said.

Jerome Williamson, the youngest and last surviving brother in the family, called it an amazing tribute to his big brother. Growing up, Jerome looked up to John, who was 13 years older. As a kid, he watched him play basketball past dark on the Ashmun Street Courts, which were later torn down to make space for the Yale Health Plan and Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. In the winter, he would watch John shovel snow off the courts so he could play, then run up East Rock with weights on his ankles and wrists in the spring.

When John made it to the ABA, Williamson’s mom would pack up several of the siblings in the car, and head to games in Nassau County, where the Nets were playing. Jerome would sit in the floor seats, close to his big brother and the other members of the team. He was constantly star-struck, he remembered. “It was a sight and time for me,” he said. “He was one of the best ball players to ever play, and this is amazing.”

“One thing I want to add is better energy in your lines!” she said. Players nodded, listening closely, and then lined up to shoot another round of baskets.

Over at the Williamson family tent, the party was just getting started. As cousins Jazmine and Nylah Williamson handed out color-coded t-shirts to teams that had started trickling in, Kali leaned back in a lawn chair, taking it all in. For over a year, she’s been battling ovarian and small cell cervical cancer that spread through her body, including to her brain.

Despite recent surgery and trips to and from the hospital, “I couldn’t miss this,” she said. “My dad meant so much to me. At the start of this, my sister and I didn’t know anything about basketball, but we pitched in and we made it work. We wanted my dad’s name to tell people in this community that you can do something productive. You can be something positive.”

This summer is a sort of beta run, she

“It means a lot to me,” chimed in his sister, Mina Williamson, who was the fourth eldest of 10. “We’re here to represent and remember my brother, who started here. This is a great honor for him. At the tent, players had started to trickle in. Three, from the team Brothers In Arms, gently joshed around with each other, hiding the nimble skills that would go on to dominate the afternoon. The team later won the tournament.

A lifelong New Havener, Montese Gilliams carefully read a waiver, then collected an orange t-shirt with information on his team. Raised in the Dwight/ Kensington neighborhood, Gilliams said he can still remember a basketball tournament in Goffe Street Park “back in the day,” but said it hasn’t happened for years.

“I think it’s important to show respect to New Haven natives,” he said. “It’s a connection to the community. It’s important to give back.”

The Williamson Family

Lailah Kindred, Mike Downing, Jr., a mentor at the Boys & Girls Club, and Aaliyah Kindred.

Lamont Signs Textured Hair Bill, Says State Will Continue To Fight Discrimination

by Hudson Kamphausen

Cosmetology students in Connecticut will now be given more instruction on how to cut and take care of textured hair because of a new law that the governor signed Monday.

Gov. Ned Lamont, speaking at Vanity Studio Hair Salon and School of Cosmetology in Stamford, said that the new law continues the state’s efforts to combat discrimination.

“I want Connecticut to continue to be a leader here,” he said, “and make sure that we can treat everybody with the care and love that they deserve.”

Public Act 24-53 – when it goes into effect – will require the curriculum for barbers and hairdressers in the state to include more experience with textured hair, which is defined as hair that is curly, wavy, or coiled. The legislation was passed with strong bipartisan support in both chambers.

Sen. Patricia Billie Miller, D-Stamford, said she was surprised to learn that students were not already getting adequate training and education on how to work with textured hair, and said that she was

empowered by her colleagues in the legislature to advocate for the bill in committee and in the senate.

“For me, it’s about social justice, it’s about inclusivity, it’s about making sure that there’s equity,” Miller said. “Because I was one of those individuals where doors were closed on me. When somebody walks into a salon, they should be able to have the service.”

Miller said the law builds upon 2021’s CROWN Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of a person’s hair. She thanked Lamont for signing the new law.

“It just speaks volumes to how he is, and that he’s interested in making sure that we have a state that does not discriminate. We have a state that is inclusive,” she said Monday.

Lamont said the law wouldn’t have gotten to this point without Miller.

“You took the lead on this, I know what a difference it makes,” he said, addressing the senator.

The law requires education and training in working with curl and wave patterns,

hair strand thickness and volumes of hair. Shaqueen Valentine, co-owner of Vanity Studio, said that the hair industry has long been segregated, and that she wanted to help change that.

“Our business was founded on the idea that, as a cosmetologist, one should know how to service all types of hairs,” she said.

As of this year there are 24 states, including Connecticut, with some kind of law preventing discrimination based on hair texture. With the signing of the new law on Monday, Connecticut became the third state with a training requirement.

Leslie Perry, director of membership and education for the Professional Beauty Association, said that the law will help set a precedent.

“It’s fantastic. We need to get other states on board,” she said.

Lamont mentioned the annual occurrence of the federal Juneteenth holiday this week, and shared some thoughts on the significance of laws like the one he signed.

“This is just one more small way to fight this battle,” he said.

Murphy Introduces Legislation To Modernize Job Corps

by Jamil Ragland

US Sen. Chris Murphy introduced new legislation last week to modernize the Job Corps and help connect youth to employment in strategic fields of national importance.

The bill, named the Job Corps for the Next Generation Act, is co-sponsored by Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island. It takes several steps to improve the Job Corps, including improving the student experience, giving local campuses more flexibility to tailor programming for their students and staff, and creating a new career training program that provides a direct pathway for youth disconnected from the workforce to enter careers of strategic national importance.

“Job Corps is an amazing program that helps train and connect young people across the country to good-paying jobs in fields like manufacturing and healthcare, but it’s in need of some serious updates,” said Murphy in a statement. “Last month, I had the chance to talk to Job Corps students and instructors in Hartford about how we can improve the programming and set students up for success in their future careers. This legislation would modernize Job Corps and ensure that helping students secure full-time employment is the top priority. I look forward to working to make sure it’s included in reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act this year.”

Job Corps is the largest free residential career program in the country, having trained and educated over two million young people between the ages of 16-24 since its inception in 1984. The program helps students earn their college degrees, gives them job training and helps to place those who complete the program with employment opportunities. Job Corps also helps with other transitional services, such as help finding housing, child care, and transportation.

“For the past 60 years, Job Corps has helped connect young people who are out of the labor force with the career and technical education they need to get

ahead while addressing critical workforce needs for employers,” Reed said. “This program has helped thousands of young people find their career paths while producing long-term labor market gains. Our legislation will update this vital program to ensure it meets the needs of today’s youth and employers.”

The improvements in Job Corps are aimed at assisting “disconnected” young people. These are people ages 14-26 who are either not in school, not employed, or both. Connecticut has convened the 119K Commission, which is a collaborative ef-

Con’t on page 15

Screengrab of the Hartford Job Corps website. Credit: Screengrab / Hartford Job Corps

The new haven independent

Juneteenth Coalition Makes Unity A Vibe

ByAbiba Biao, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

When SĀHGE Academy students

Amayah Smith, Nevaé Brightly, Lilah Jackson and Santana Brightly stepped on stage, there was a certain weight they carried in their footsteps. As Beyconcé’s “Black Parade '' began to play, the girls turned their back to the crowd, raising their hands in the air.

Of life on fertile ground/ancestors put me on game, Beyoncé sang.

Ankh charm on gold chains/with my Oshun energy—

The beat dropped, and they descended into a squat before turning around striking a pose to the audience, radiating the energy of the Yourba goddess.

That was the scene last Saturday, as friends, families and hundreds of community members gathered for the 11th annual Juneteenth celebration and elder honoring ceremony on the New Haven Green. An initiative of the Official Juneteenth Coalition of Greater New Haven and the International Festival of Arts & Ideas, the event brought a festive, daylong celebration to the upper right corner of the Green, with fine and performing arts activities for all ages.

Dr. Hanan Hameen Diagne, president and co-founder of the Official Juneteenth Coalition of Greater New Haven, said that the coalition centered on a theme of unity to promote coming together across New Haven“New Haven really needs unity right now,” Hameen Diagne, who also leads Artsucation Academy Network and has spearheaded arts learning in the city's public schools, said. “We need more collaboration. We need more sharing of resources. We need more of people supporting people.”

“If we want our youth to be united, if we want our youth to get along, if we want our youth to solve their conflicts and come together we have to show them what that looks like,” she added. “And we have to provide the spaces and opportunities for that to happen.”

That unity was palpable from the outset, with an opening prayer and libation, pop-up tents from family-friendly groups like S.P.O.R.T. Academy and Kidz Kook, arts performances and a “Juneteenth Village” that is now a trademark of the event. In a move to make the event accessible to all, the coalition did not charge people to vend at the event unless they were food businesses.

Dawn Taylor-Groom was just one of those artist-entrepreneurs, with striking handmade jewelry and apparel from her Black-owned small business, D.L.T.G. Groom Collection.

Taylor-Groom, who launched the business three years ago, explained that it started as an accident: she found that jewelry making eased her anxiety during the first years of the Covid-19 pandemic, as

her husband went in and out of the hospital. It wasn’t long until her pile of bracelets grew into a collection. A push from her daughter convinced her to open up a store.

The magic behind the craft is the simplicity of the process, said Taylor-Groom. She puts things together as she sees fit. “I just get some beads and colors together and whatever I see, I think that goes together. I just do it,” she said.

Her goal is to open her own brick-andmortar storefront or rent out a vending location in another storefront. While she doesn’t have a specific location in mind, she’s seen new shops popping up on Dixwell and “would love to be in there.”

On stage, musical artists kept the crowd dancing. Bobbing her head, attendee Deasia Davis watched the stage proudly as her cousin, Taliah Jennette, took the mic for the first time.

Jeanette is a member of the nascent group kidsnextdorm, a Philly-based college band. As she listened, Davis said she was surprised—and delighted— with the turnout and amount of support from the crowd.

“I never been to one of these kind of events,” she said. “It’s mad people out here, but I love it though.” She added that she “loves being around people” and “would definitely come to this again. This is definitely cool.”

Of course, the group couldn’t leave the stage without getting everyone moving.

“If y’all up for doing a soul train let me hear you say ‘yerrr’” Namumba Santos said, jumping off the stage. Santos, better known by his stage name 13mumba, didn’t need a stage to command the crowd—he brought the joy right onto the Green itself.

That infectious energy spread alongside performers and spectators alike. The soul train line, which started off small, grew into a full on procession. Soon everyone was joining in on the fun, showing off their best dance moves as they made their way down the line of cheers and applause. After the line dispersed, Davis made her way to congratulate Jennette, who beamed with excitement. The anxiety she had when she first went on stage suddenly disappeared, becoming almost unrecognizable with a newfound glow of confidence.

“I was honestly nervous because I haven't danced since high school, " Jennette said, “ so getting asked to do this opportunity was really fun.”

The feeling of growth was something she encouraged every artist to seek out while performing.

“Don’t be scared, girl, get up!” she said. “If you got the opportunity, do it. Don’t hold back cause it’s really fun and you get to see a lot of opportunities for a better future.”

Shayla Streater, Amayah Smith, Nevaé Brightly, Lilah Jackson and Santana Brightly. Abiba Biao Photos.

Deasia Davis watching her cousin perform.

Lincoln-Bassett Is A Family Affair

by ALLAN APPEL

You can really tell the character of a school by its graduation exercise.

And that’s why the award Emily Contreras Lopez received for class participation and Karyssa Twigg’s special vice principal’s recognition for respectfulness and being an all-round kind person to both teachers and “her fellow students even when they’re annoying” received loud applause, hoots, and whistles of approval. That was the loving family scene – the character of the school – at Friday morning’s flower and balloon-filled celebration of the 6th Grade Graduation at the Lincoln-Bassett Community School on Bassett Street in Newhallville.

As 46 sixth graders recited poems (“The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman) and sang songs (“Lift Every Voice and Sing”) and collected their diplomas, pausing, each one of them, to be photographed, family members snapped pictures, called “go girl,” and a whole range of other encomiums and words of encouragement.

Most of all, everyone waited to gather, hug each other, and put in the flesh of an embrace the feeling central to speakers’ remarks: that Lincoln-Basset and its Soaring Eagles will be a place you can always come home to.

“I know every teacher and staffer’s

phone number,” said Travenia Smith, whose daughter Serenity, became a graduate and is moving on to the Betsy Ross Arts Magnet School. And Travenia should know.

She herself is a graduate of LincolnBassett as is her mom, Serenity’s grandmother Tori McClain, who lives two

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blocks from the school and recalls fondly walking there every day.

No, wait, we’re not done yet with the family feeling and the Lincoln-Basset community genealogy: Tori’s mom Karen McClain also is a graduate of Lincoln-Bassett, making her not only Serenity’s great grandmother but

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the first of four generations of graduates

And all of them (with the exception of Karen), along with Serenity’s proud dad Ted Smith, sisters, and cousins and aunties and godmothers, 20 strong were taking pictures with Serenity on the sunfilled steps in front of the school and deciding where to go to lunch to celebrate.

Travenia has another Lincoln-Bassett graduate, a 16-year old doing very well at ESUMS, but she avers there is just an undeniable difference between a magnet school and a community school like Lincoln-Bassett.

“We literally know all the staff here by first name, and they were particularly good during the pandemic,” she added. That made a huge difference too for the family of graduate Lyrica Lathrop, who also was battling illness this year, and staff made sure she had the right computer and was getting all the assignments so she could finish and graduate with her colleagues.

Applauding her after the ceremonies were her dad William Lathrop, a former member of the PTO, and sister J’yahni Lathrop, now a 16-year-old at Hillhouse. William has another child, a son Anthony and, yes, also a Lincoln-Bassett graduate, who was not able to attend because he is serving in the U.S. Army.

While Hillhouse is fine for her, Lyrica’s sister J’yahni remembered how much she “loved this place. My heart is in this school.”

The principal Rosalind Garcia and vice principal Eva Schultz hit these same themes in their valedictories to their students and in a pre-ceremony chat with this Con’t on page 16

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Serenity Smith and her bevy of loving supporters.

The new haven independent

June 25, 2024

Growing up in the early 1990s, Thuso Mbedu never dreamt of being an entertainment figure. At a very young age, she wanted to be a dermatologist, but after taking a dramatic arts class in the 10th grade, she became interested in acting.

Her acting career has earned her fame and fortune locally and internationally, rising to become one of the most sought after actresses from South Africa. At 27, she was named in the 2018 Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 List, and one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African Magazine.

Born on July 8, 1991, at the Midlands Medical Center in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, to a Zulu mother and Xhosa and Sotho father, she never enjoyed the care of her parents who died when she was barely four years old. She was raised by her grandmother, a very strict school principal in school and at home. Her name reflected the multicultural tribes of her parents – Thuso is a Sotho name, Nokwanda is a Zulu name, and Mbedu is Xhosa.

Mbedu went to Pelham Primary School and Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School and graduated from the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa in 2013, where she studied Physical Theatre and Performing Arts Management. Earlier in 2012, she took a summer course at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City.

Her acting career began in 2014 when she played a minor role of ‘Nosisa’ in the popular South African Soap Opera ‘Isibaya’ from Mzansi Magic. In 2015, she played a guest role as ‘Kheti’ in the Second Season of the SABC 2 youth drama series ‘Snake Park.’

She got her first starring role in the teen drama television series ‘IS’THUNZI’ from Mzansi Magic where she played ‘Winnie.’ Her international debut was in ‘The Underground Railroad’ an American fantasy historical drama series based on the novel ‘The Underground Railroad’ written by Colson Whitehead.

In 2022, she starred in her first film ‘The Woman King’ an epic historical drama about Agosie, where an entire female warrior unit protected the West African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 17 – 19th century. She played ‘Nawi’, a zealous recruit in the military unit.

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

sion series ‘The Underground Railroad.’ She won the ‘Critics Choice Television Awards’ for ‘Best Actress in a Miniseries or

er Women Summit, Thuso Mbedu tearfully spoke of how she overcame the loss of her dear parents, grandmother, and aunt. But her role in Amanda Lane’s ‘IS’THUNZI’

da Lane happened in 2016. The role that Amanda Lane gave me was the difference

ing that audition brief, I told myself that

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

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

tion. I gave it the last of everything that I had, that at the time I got the callback, I had nothing left. I secretly made the decision not to do the callback because I had nothing left to give. But fortunately, I received cause the role was mine. I had given up. I was in a very dark place at the time, and the character, the role, the opportunity, was a much needed light. And I told myself that I will act as if it was the last character that I will play. And through a great script and an amazing director, I earned two International Emmy Awards for that role…”

World War II Vet Picks Up Deployment-Deferred Hillhouse Diploma

by ARTHUR DELOT-VILAIN

Eighty years after officially graduating from what was then called New Haven High School, 98-year-old World War II veteran Paul Panagrosso walked across the stage with Hillhouse’s Class of 2024 on Thursday to receive his diploma.

Panagrosso was 18 years old when he was called to basic training for World War II in 1944. He was only 10 days away from graduating from Hillhouse’s predecessor, New Haven High School. While he and his unit trained in Florida, his mother collected his diploma for him.

On Thursday, he joined Hillhouse’s graduating class for a festive ceremony at Bowen Field.

Panagrosso’s son, also named Paul, reached out to Hillhouse High to set up his father’s belated graduation. “[My father] talked often about not making graduation,” he said. Also in attendance on Thursday from Panagrosso’s family were his other children Dawn and Steve; his nieces Mary and Diane; and his grandson Christopher.

“Unbelievable,” said Panagrosso as New Haven Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Madeline Negrón helped him

ARTHUR DELOT-VILAIN PHOTOS

Paul Panagrosso: "I'm a lucky man to be here today.”

don his blue and white graduation robes. He added: “I’m extremely grateful that people remember the old timers.” The biggest differences between now and then? “I don’t recognize the neighborhood,” Panagrasso said. Also, “the discipline was more in those days. This generation is extremely friendly.”

As a young man, Panagrosso lived on Olive Street. After being captured at the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, he spent nearly six months in a Nazi prisoner of war camp. Upon returning home, he said, the first dish he asked his mother to make was pasta e fagioli – “macaroni with beans.”

After his return home, Panagrosso spent most of his working life in retail, at Caldor and at the King Cole in Bridgeport. After a lifetime in Connecticut, Panagrosso moved to Maine a few years ago to be with his son and daughter. “He’s got a driver’s license that expires when he’s 101,” said Paul the younger. Panagrosso was the first graduate to walk across the stage on Thursday. It felt “beautiful” to him to be sharing the day with the students. “I’m a lucky man to be here today,” he said.

fort between Dalio Education, the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, and nonprofit youth service providers, and tasked it with helping young people reconnect to educational and employment opportunities.

According to a report issued by the Commission, there are 119,000 young people in Connecticut who are either disconnected or at risk. That represents 19% of youth in the state, and according to the commission the bubble of disconnected youth poses a major challenge for the health and financial well-being of the disconnected, as well as the state.

“I applaud Sen. Murphy and Sen. Reed for introducing the Job Corps for the Next Generation Act,” Andrew Ferguson, co-CEO of Dalio Education, said in a statement. “It’s a welcome step as we at Dalio Education continue to try and draw attention to and address the needs of the 119,000 young people in Connecticut who are at-risk of not graduating High School or disconnected from the workforce. These young people have dreams and aspirations just like everyone else. They also have enormous potential to succeed; what they need is some help. Leadership like the kind being exhibited by Senators Murphy and Reed gives us hope that more help is on the way.”

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The

Funeral Carries Slain Officer Home

by JABEZ CHOI

Police officers kicked their motorcycles into gear on Dixwell Avenue early Monday morning for the start of the funeral procession for Minneapolis officer and New Haven native Jamal Mitchell, who was killed in the line of duty last month. Minneapolis officers carried Mitchell’s casket into a car outside of McClam Funeral Home at 95 Dixwell Ave. at around 8:15 a.m. Then, the procession made its way to the Floyd Little fieldhouse at Hillhouse High School, where the funeral ceremony took place before Mitchell’s planned burial at Evergreen Cemetery later in the day.

Officers from Massachusetts, New Jersey, Minnesota, and Connecticut, including Stamford, Greenwich, Hartford, Hamden, Waterbury, Rocky Hill, and New Haven, participated in the procession and were present at the funeral, along with Mitchell’s family and friends and other grieving New Haveners.

Mitchell, 36, was shot and killed in Minneapolis on May 30 by the very gunshot victim to whom he was trying

to provide aid. That man, Mustafa Mohamed, was then shot and killed by another Minneapolis officer.

“My first thought was for his family. Then my second thought was for the agency in Minneapolis because they’re obviously grieving,” Danbury Police Captain Joseph LeRose said on Monday. “It’s a brotherhood. It’s like an extended second family.”

Mitchell, affectionately known as “Mally,” graduated from Wilbur Cross High School in 2007. In 2018, he relocated to Maple Grove, Minnesota to work as a TSA agent before becoming a police officer. In February 2023, Mitchell was awarded police officer of the month.

Mitchell left behind four children and a “big, big family,” according to Mamie Gardner, Mitchell’s cousin. According to Gardner, Mitchell was humble and family-oriented, coming to family cookouts when he had the time. His children were “his life.” When he was not playing basketball or working out in the gym, he was volunteering at his church or the Boy Scouts, among other community groups.

“He always had a pleasant smile. Al-

ways,” Gardner said. “Always ambitious and to have things better, not only for his own family, but for his cousins and extended family.”

Gardner pointed to the family around, who sat near the front, next to Mitchell’s casket, at the Floyd Little center on Sherman Parkway.

There, Mitchell’s family had tears in their eyes. But every moment or so, sentimental laughter would sneak into their voices and they would smile.

“It’s a bittersweet moment,” Gardner said. “We have a very large family. But we haven’t seen family members in years. And today, I’m so happy that we see each other not because Jamal has passed, but because of what he left for us. His kindness, his smile.”

Budicisa Moore, who attends church with Mitchell’s grandmother, noted that the last time she had seen Mitchell was at his grandfather’s funeral. There, Moore noticed that Mitchell had seemed “really, really happy” and had “no complaints.”

“He doesn’t have to struggle through the trials of life anymore,” Moore said. “For today I just have to be strong and pray

Christian Cooper: From Racist Central Park Encounter with a ‘Karen’ to Emmy-

It was a sunny day when Cooper, an avid birdwatcher, found himself in the Ramble, a secluded area of Central Park known for its rich bird population. As he enjoyed the tranquility of the natural habitat, he noticed a dog running off-leash, violating park rules designed to protect his beloved birds. Concerned, Cooper approached the dog’s owner, Amy Cooper (no relation), requesting that she leash her dog.

By Stacy M. Brown

Four years after a racist encounter with a so-called “Karen,” Christian Cooper has earned the ultimate payback: a Daytime Emmy Award for his passionate love of birdwatching. The racially charged incident, which took place in 2020, not only spotlighted systemic racial issues but also paved the way for Cooper’s extraordinary success.

It was a sunny day when Cooper, an avid birdwatcher, found himself in the Ramble, a secluded area of Central Park known for its rich bird population. As he enjoyed the tranquility of the natural habitat, he noticed a dog running off-leash, violating park rules designed to protect his beloved birds. Concerned, Cooper approached the dog’s owner, Amy Cooper (no relation), requesting that she leash her dog.

What followed was a disturbing display of racial bias. Amy threatened to call the police and make a false claim that “an African American man” was threatening her life. Christian captured the incident on video, which quickly went viral and brought attention to the racial tensions that ignited during the time of George Floyd’s murder in Minnesota.

“I knew something like this could hap-

pen to me, as a birder who is Black,” stated Christian Cooper, a Harvard alumnus and accomplished writer and editor.

In a twist of fate, the viral incident caught the attention of National Geographic, leading to the creation of his show, “Extraordinary Birder,” which premiered in 2023. The show has since garnered critical acclaim, culminating in Cooper winning the Daytime Emmy Award this week for Outstanding Daytime Personality.

“No matter what anybody says or does, we are not going back,” Cooper stated during his Emmy Award acceptance speech. “We will only move forward together.”

Cooper’s run-in with Amy, who has since been dubbed “Central Park Karen,” exemplifies the challenges he faced. The altercation not only led to Amy losing her job but also highlighted the dangerous misuse of racial stereotypes and the potentially life-threatening consequences for Black individuals.

Beyond his television success, Cooper has also made his mark as an author. He penned the memoir “Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World,” which delves into his life experiences and passion for birdwatching. Additionally, he drew in-

spiration from the Central Park incident for his graphic novel “It’s A Bird,” featured in DC Comics’ digital series “Represent!”

Cooper said he aims to address the structural barriers that prevent Black and brown communities from engaging with nature. “Black and brown people go to the national parks far less than our proportion in the population,” Cooper stated during a 2023 interview.

“I think there’s a lot of structural reasons for that… I think some of them are in terms of legacy problems that affect our communities and built-in barriers. For example, if you are working two or three jobs to keep a roof over your head, you’re not necessarily going to have the money to be able to send your kids to a summer camp where they can develop an appreciation for nature.

“They’re not going to have that connection to nature to want to go out to the great outdoors. So, we’ve got a lot of things to overcome, and that’s one of the things I’m hoping the show will do —get a lot of Black and brown kids thinking, ‘Oh, he’s looking at birds. He’s outdoors. Maybe I can do that.’ Because it’s so much easier to picture yourself doing it if you can see somebody who looks like you already doing it.”

Officer Jamal Mitchell.

Christian Cooper

The new haven independent

Contribution

King-Robinson On Trial

Guilty or not guilty? That was the question considered in the mock courtroom in the auditorium of King-Robinson Interdistrict Magnet And IB STEM School, from 4:15 – 5:30 p.m. on June 12, 2024, as members of the King-Robinson Mock Trial team tried the case of the People v E and T.

The young lawyers included: Kaleb Perez, Keerome Suggs, Keysean Wagner, Tyrique Thigpen, Tyler Thigpen, David Samules, Joshua Dennis, and Amir Fludd. David Samules was an attorney and an expert witness (forensic pathologist), and Joshua Dennis was an attorney and one of the eyewitnesses (a white-haired fisherman).

The mock trial team was coached by Michael A. Chandler, a biology major and former college mock trial competitor and coach. The mock trial is part of the CSI/ Mock Trial Program funded with a grant awarded to Culturally Correct Creative, Inc. by The Prosperity Foundation, Inc. The curriculum for the CSI/Mock Trial Program was created by Amanda Hayes Foundation, Inc. During the CSI unit, students learned crime scene investigation techniques and acted as crime scene investigators. Students then presented the evidence collected in the CSI unit in the mock trial. During the mock trial, students were attorneys and witnesses, ranging from eyewitnesses to an expert witness who testify about the negative impact of street drugs on the human body. The student attorneys completed an entire trial, delivering openings and closings, and conducting direct examinations and cross-examinations in front of an atten-

tive audience of parents, teachers, family, and friends.

“The purpose of our CSI/Mock Trial Program is to teach students their legal rights and responsibilities and expose them to careers in law enforcement,” says Reginald A. Slade, Executive Director of Culturally Correct Creative, Inc. “We feel this program helps students develop discipline, oral presentation skills, analytical skills, and the desire to learn more.”

The mock trial was a collaborative effort. Audio visual support was provided by Blue Plum Productions, Inc., which filmed the crime scene video and created the CSI slide show. Blue Plum was on hand to display the crime scene video, on

cue, during the trial. Abraham’s Promise, Inc. provided the only 2 adult witnesses in the mock trial, the homicide detective and an eyewitness. The homicide detective was portrayed by Abraham’s Promise’s Executive Director, Barry Abraham. The eyewitness was portrayed by event planner Monique Russell, who also pitched in and created the certificates of achievement for each student.

The program could not have been completed without the support of King-Robinson’s faculty and leadership. Principal Mrs. Tessa Gumbs-Johnson authorized and fully supported the program. Faculty members, Jasmin Joiner and Taylor Samuels-Gonzalez were instrumental

in presenting the program to the school and recruiting students for the program.

Mr. Hill, a King-Robinson STEM teacher and the teacher-sponsor for the program, allowed Chandler and the students to use his STEM classroom to conduct experiments, build trial exhibits, and for mock trial practice.

Members of the community also provided support. William Dwayne Gallishaw, a Master Carpenter from HHC Carpentry, helped the students build their own trial exhibits out of wood. The Shubert Theatre provided discount tickets to STOMP for the program’s team-building field trip.

A Family Affair

reporter (full disclosure: the emotional high point of this reporter’s K-12 experience was sixth grade at Carthay Center School in L.A. and I adore graduations of any kind!)

“The challenges the kids face in life are not left at home, they come through this door. This is part of their support system,” said Schultz, who’s been at the school for two years.

“Here there’s such a community feeling,” said Garcia who’s been helming the school for five years. “We connect with all the kids.

The total 256-child enrollment, relatively quite small for a pre-K through 6th grade school, helps make this possible.

“Everybody has buy-in here,” Garcia continued, “the cafeteria staff make cookies and pizza with the kids, especially on special days. The kids work with custodial staff in helping out too. The kids are invested here.”

“They want to be here,” said Schutz and that’s why, in part, the school’s chronic absenteeism rate possibly the greatest challenge district-wide has gone down by the most recent measure at LincolnBassett by ten percent.

The keynote speaker was a teary-eyed kindergarten teacher, Jennifer Kay. She recalled how challenged she was during the pandemic to be asked, after 11 years teaching kindergarten, to teach third grade, and online.

“I was scared but then I realized these were my kids from kindergarten and we navigated Google Meet and how to manage your cat when it jumped on the keyboard. I’m so glad to see you grow, to have become mathematicians and readers and now you’ve grown into great young adults. I’m so proud of you, and can’t wait to see you soar.”

Our Role in Perpetuating the Downfall of Democracy: A Call to Action

A Message from NNPA’s Chairman of the Board

We must all stand before Christ to be judged. Everyone will get what they should. They

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Publisher of the Westside Gazette Newspaper

As citizens of a democracy, our role in shaping its course cannot be overstated. Whether we cast our vote for President Joe Biden and the strides he has made for inclusion or Donald Trump for all that he has done and is doing to discredit this country as a democracy as a whole, our actions affect what happens in our country’s history. We better believe that our responsibility for our rights extends way beyond the ballot box; it includes the values we uphold, the causes we champion, and the ideals we strive and will fight for. No one man, woman or other should stand in the way of our freedom for equal rights and our will to be FREE-come hell or high water!

The actions of those who lead speak volumes about the direction in which we are headed. Whether we stand for women’s rights, Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ+ rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), affirmative action, or combatting white supremacy, our choices shape the landscape of freedom, equality, and justice for all.

Supporting candidates who champion values essential for equity, it is not enough. We have to hold leaders accountable, demanding transparency, integrity, and loyalty to the principles upon which our democracy stands. We cannot afford to be passive observers, content with merely casting our votes and hoping for the best. We must actively engage in our communities, standing up for the voices least heard, demanding change, and

standing up against injustice wherever it may intrude. The continuation of democracy depends on us and rests squarely on our shoulders.

It is a collective endeavor, requiring the participation and dedication of every citizen who is willing not to fall for the bovine excretions. We must refuse com-

placency and apathy, recognizing that the fight for democracy is ongoing and requires our persistent concern. Now is not the time for us to be divided or allow our lack of concern to see our democratic systems crumble right before our eyes.

We have to know who is in the “foxhole” with us before we can conquer the foes who are attempting to destroy us by keeping us apart.

It is a time for unity and action. Regardless of our political affiliations, we must come together in defense of our shared values and the principles that define us as a nation. Only then can we ensure that freedom, equality, and justice are not just lofty ideals, but tangible realities for all Americans.

Gloria E. Johnson, 74

Gloria E. Johnson, age 74, passed away peacefully, on Saturday June 8, 2024, in Wilmington, North Carolina.

The daughter of the late Army Sgt. Willie James Merrick and Elois Robbins, Gloria was born on November 4, 1949, in Wilmington NC.

She graduated from Leland High School in 1967, studied at Miller Business college, and as a devoted christian, completed two years of study at Carver Bible Institute.

Gloria attended St. James Church in New Haven CT, where she gave her life to Christ under the auspices of Bishop Arlester Coward. Gloria was a loyal member of Sweet Hope Free Will Baptist Church in New Haven CT, for 15 years prior to rejoining Myrtle Grove AME Church in Leland NC under Rev. Hannah Green.

Gloria was a former employee at Corning Glass in Wilmington, NC and worked alongside her mother Elois Robbins in the early 70’s. She relocated to Connecticut in 1972 and worked at Pratt & Whitney, Turbine Components, and Wood Group Component Repair, where she retired before moving back to Leland NC in 2016.

Gloria loved bowling, collecting dolls, and caring for her family and grandchildren. Gloria had the sweetest, loving, and caring personality and didn’t mind telling it like it is if she had to!

In 2017 her son, Gaylord Salters, wrote and published the novel Momma Bear as a love letter to her, in honor of the unyielding devotion she carried for her four children.

Gloria is survived by: Tony Kenneth Johnson, her husband of 20 years; sister Carolyn Bowden of Leland NC; twin brothers Donald and Ronald Merrick of Leland NC, sister Muriel Graham of Leland NC; sister Beatrice Merrick-Jackson of Newark DE; sister Janet Merrick of Lawrenceville NJ; surrogate sister Gaynell Martin of New Haven CT; son Carlos Merrick of Leland NC; daughter Lakeebler Johnson of Leland NC; son Gaylord Salters of New Haven CT; step sons Jordan and Anthony Johnson of Orangeburg SC; 14 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Gloria was preceded in death by her youngest child, Johnny Johnson, who she will be laid to rest beside at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

The Family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all who expressed their genuine love, concern, and support for her in the difficult days, from both Connecticut and North Carolina. In addition, the most sincere gratitude to her granddaughter, Gabrielle A. Salters, who moved from Connecticut to North Carolina to care for her up until she was called home.

A celebration of life will be held in her honor at Davis Funeral Home in Wilmington NC on June 15, 2024. After service, her repass will be held at Wilmington Moose Lodge 343, 4610 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington NC 28412

New Haven Public Schools

Programs for 3 and 4 Year Olds in New Haven

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

Dr Mayo Early Childhood School

Fair Haven School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

Hill Central School

John Martinez Sea & Sky STEM School

Lincoln Bassett Community School

Truman School

Additional community locations also participate in the program.

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

Augusta Lewis Troup School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

East Rock Community School

Hill Central School

Nathan Hale School

Additional community locations also participate in the program

any questions

How to apply

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

What you will submit with your Application

1) Proof of Age

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

2) Proof of Address

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

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

3) Proof of Income

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

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

•Notarized Statement indicating Parent is unemployed

• Additional forms may be requested

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

• CT Department of Education Early Childhood Health Assessment Record

• Anemia and lead level test results

•TB assessment

• Immunizations records

• Seasonal flu vaccination

• Health insurance card

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

Black Men & Obesity: It’s Time Our Brothers Take Their Weight Seriously

BlackHealthMatters

When 32-year-old Brandon Browner passed out in the middle of the street one evening after work, he woke up in the intensive care unit. At nearly 300 pounds, his excess weight, in conjunction with a poor diet, had resulted in a severe health scare. When he arrived at the emergency room, his pressure was 196/100, which had also weakened his heart, leaving him at risk for a heart attack.

Many Black men don’t think being obese is a big deal. For them, it is not a fatal health condition like cancer or heart disease. But that is not true. Dr. Chika Anekwe, an obesity medicine physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, says research has found 195 diseases influenced by excess weight. While Black women have a higher obesity rate at nearly 55%, more than one-third of Black men, 36.9%, are also challenged by obesity.

During that time, he was forced to change his diet. “It was hospital food, so no salt, protein and vegetables, sugar-free applesauce. When I was first admitted to the hospital, I couldn’t wait to get out and eat some real food. But after spending so much time in that hospital bed, I’ll do whatever I can to never go back.”

Browner admits he doesn’t always adhere to his diet but has made profound lifestyle changes that have stuck.” I eat a lot more fruit and vegetables, go to the

gym three times a week, and drink a lot more water. I never want to go through that again.”

Taking a Proactive Approach

While Browner’s health scare forced some changes, other Black men have seen the warning signs and decided to be proactive. Robert Thompson, 47, was motivated to make a change when, during his annual checkup, he noticed the scale was getting too close to 300 pounds. “While I cut off soda and sweets, the main factor was exercise. I started by going on long walks, which turned into working out with weights and runs. Just moving around more helped out a lot with my weight. I ended up going down to 220 pounds,” Thompson said.

The Impact of Pandemic Pounds

COVID-19 caused an uptick in obesity, especially in the black community. Rafael Mendez, 52, saw a rapid weight gain in just a few short months in 2020. “I work in an office, so I wasn’t physically active every day before the shut-down,” he said. “But being in the house and having 24hour access to my kitchen did a number on me. It started with just light snacking during the day, and before I knew it, I ate a bowl of cereal every hour during the workday.” In three months, he gained 15 pounds.

Since Mendez couldn’t get to a gym,

he needed to get innovative about exercise. “I started out taking walks on my lunch break, and eventually, I was able to turn walking into jogging. Then, I researched exercises I could do in my home or backyard. I also had to break the habit of eating all day. I found healthier snacks like rice cakes and pita chips. It took me

a little while, but I was able to lose the weight I gained.”

Beware of Belly Fat

Brothers must also be aware of the dangers of excess fat around the abdominal area. We often consider it excess padding, limited to subcutaneous fat just below the

skin. However, the fat that lies deeper in the abdomen can be more problematic. Visceral fat can surround their internal organs. The Mayo Clinic says it can contribute to the following conditions:

• High blood pressure.

• An unhealthy amount of fat in the blood.

• Sleep apnea.

• Heart disease.

• High blood sugar and diabetes.

• Certain cancers.

• Stroke.

• Fatty liver.

Making a Mindset Shift

So, how can we get our men to take obesity seriously? Florida A&M Nutrition professor Dr. Jenelle Robinson believes we must first change our thinking about eating healthier foods. “You need to get away from the word, ‘I’m on a diet’ and say, ‘this is my dietary lifestyle,'” said Robinson. “My dietary lifestyle is x, y, or z, and I live that way.”

Six Steps That Help Lead to a Healthier Lifestyle

Consult with your HCP About the Risks. Not only should you consult with your physician, but you should consult with them about an action plan that is tailored to you specifically. A Journal of General Internal Medicine study found that some African Americans reported that it was

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

Grant round dates:

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

3rd round opens on Mar 1st and closes April 30th (review and

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

Obesity:

only after they developed a condition such as diabetes or heart disease and their physician discussed the connection to their weight that they finally understood what their health risks were.

Talk With Your Village or Circle

Like many issues with black men, our obesity/ health is often an issue that we keep to ourselves. But people in our communities often deal with the same things as us. Having an open forum with each other can be mutually beneficial. What questions are you asking your doctor? What are some methods people around you are using to manage their weight?

Hire a Dietician or Nutritionist

Being healthy is not a one-size-fits-all type of deal. Everything needs to be personalized to your needs. One person may need to eat more fruits and vegetables, while another may need to incorporate more protein into their diet. Having a nutritionist tailor a diet that is right for you can help you reach your goals more quickly.

Work With a Personal Trainer

When it comes to weight loss, a healthy diet and exercise regimen go hand in hand. And just like dieting, exercise is not one size fits all. For example, if you have problems with your feet, running on the treadmill might not be ideal. Or if you have issues with your back, you may want to ease off doing heavy weightlifting. That’s why hiring a personal trainer is a great idea. Not only can they give you a personalized exercise regimen to help you reach your goals, but they can also give you tips on what foods you should be consuming for your body type and your nutritionist.

Team Up With An Accountability Partner Goals are always more challenging to reach alone. So consider linking up with an accountability partner or perhaps a group of accountability partners. The journey to a healthier lifestyle had as much to do with your mental and physical health. Having an accountability partner gives you an outlet to express yourself. Share the challenges you are going through that have worked well and not so well. Sharing these things can help everyone reach their goals faster.

Set Realistic Goals

You didn’t gain the weight overnight, so you should not expect to lose the weight overnight. There is no microwave solution for weight loss, and if there is one out there, chances are it will not be sustainable over a long period. By setting unrealistic goals, you risk getting discouraged when you don’t reach them. Set attainable goals and crush them. Rome was not built in a day. Slow and steady wins the race. So pace yourself. You’ve got this!

Supported by an educational grant from Novo Nordisk Inc.

Escuelas Públicas de New Haven

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

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

Dr. Mayo Early Childhood School

Fair Haven School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

Hill Central School

John Martinez Sea & Sky STEM School

Lincoln Bassett Community School

Truman School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

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

Augusta Lewis Troup School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

East Rock Community School

Hill Central School

Nathan Hale School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

dudas o preguntas

Para mas informacion contactar:

P a m e l a N g

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

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

La oficina de Registracion de Infancia Temprana esta ubicada

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

ESTAREMOS

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

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

Qué incluir en su inscripción:

1) Prueba de edad

• Certificado de nacimiento / Pasaporte del niño/a O

• Documentos legales de custodia / tutela

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

3) Demostración de ingresos

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

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

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

4) Físico (dentro del último año)

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

• Resultados de exámenes de anemia y plomo

• Evaluación TB

• Registros de inmunizaciones

• Vacunación de la gripe de estación

•Tarjeta de seguro de salud

5) Examen dental

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

Celebrating The Significance of Juneteenth

BlackHealthMatters.com

Juneteenth, also known as “June Nineteenth,” holds a profound cultural significance within the Black community. It represents the moment when federal troops descended upon Galveston, Texas, in 1865, seizing control of the state and proclaiming the liberation of all those ensnared in the chains of slavery. It is crucial to recognize that this momentous occasion transpired a staggering two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been inked. Juneteenth is a day of remembrance, reflection, and jubilation. Here are some ways our community is commemorating the occasion in 2024.

Dr. Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” played a pivotal role in Juneteenth’s recognition in Texas 45 years ago. In 2016, she made history again by capturing national attention. At age 89, embarked on a 1,400-mile trek from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., petitioning for the official recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday.

Jubilee Day

While many consider Jubilee Day and Juneteenth interchangeable, it’s important to recognize that without the former, our national holiday might not have gained the widespread recognition it has today. In 1865, freedmen in Texas initiated “Jubilee Day,” celebrations held annually on June 19. These gatherings were rich with the tapestry of our heritage and featured music, barbecues, prayer services, and other joyful activities. As Black individuals migrated across the nation, Juneteenth became woven into our cultural fabric. It was a matter of tradition. Texas led the way by making it a state holiday in 1979, and in June 2021, Congress declared it a federal holiday. Now, on a national level, every June 19th, we honor our ancestors and celebrate the profound impact of our collective journey.

2024 Celebrations Around the Country Washington D.C.

While we all have different ways of celebrating Juneteenth, we want to highlight how various parts of the country embrace the holiday.

To start off, the South Lawn of the White House was packed with people and vibrant energy on Monday, June 10th. The 2024 White House Juneteenth Concert had an array of talent, with legends like Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, Charlie Wilson, and many more. The concert also coincided with Black Music Month. It was a space for honoring our culture and the art forms that helped shape America. People of all generations enjoyed the event as it bridged the past and present and symbolized our progress.

If you want to attend an upcoming

event in the lovely D.C. area, consider visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture on June 15th. From 11:00 to 4:30 p.m., the museum will host an event themed “Freedom, Movement, and Migration.” It will be the perfect time for families to engage in a meaningful celebration of our history, freedom, and cultural impact, commemorating Juneteenth’s significance in American history.

Atlanta, Georgia

It’s almost time for the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival, which will be held in Piedmont Park from June 21st to 23rd. Atlanta has hosted this event since 2011; it’s a celebration that fills the

streets and immerses you in the beauty of our culture. Most attendees look forward to live music, various vendors, and good cuisine, but the festival is definitely a family space. On the 21st, the parade will feature captivating floats, dance troops, and marching bands. Tulsa, Oklahoma Tulsa Juneteenth is a community-funded festival on historic Greenwood Avenue, also known as Black Wall Street. The festival serves as a safe space for the community and a time to embody the liberation and resilience that characterizes our culture. Whether it be a 5k run, art exhibitions, wellness sessions, or live music, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Galveston, Texas

Fort Worth, Texas. The All About Us festival celebrates Black culture by blending music, heritage, history, and education into an immersive experience for all age groups. If you’re interested in musical talent, you may look forward to seeing their impressive line-up of performers, including artists like Musiq Soulchild and Crystal Waters. The event will feature exhibits on the history of Black hair, Black cinema, vendors, tasty food, live music, and access to healthcare and wellness resources. “Juneteenth serves as a day for reflection and recommitment to the values of freedom and equity, urging us to confront contemporary challenges and work towards a society where everyone’s rights are truly respected and upheld,” said Shannon Mitchell, festival co-founder.

The National Juneteenth Museum

As we celebrate Juneteenth, we are celebrating the preservation of our past and the current global impact of our culture, yet there is still much to look forward to in our future. We can anticipate the grand opening of the National Juneteenth Museum. This institution will commemorate the formerly enslaved’s historic journey and become a captivating tourist destination and a space for collaborative education.

Dr. Opal Lee, a founding board member, is affectionately known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” She played a pivotal role in Juneteenth’s recognition in Texas 45 years ago, and in 2016, she made history again by capturing national attention. At age 89, she embarked on a 1,400-mile trek from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., petitioning for the official recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday. Her visionary thinking is a key catalyst behind Juneteenth’s national recognition in 2021 and the establishment of the National Juneteenth Museum.

If you want to go to where it all began, the birthplace of Juneteenth, then Galveston, Texas, should be on your destination list. The city is filled with historic sites, and there is always an opportunity to partake in their tours, which immerse you in the history and celebration of such a historic moment. Their annual Juneteenth Festival is coming up soon, on the 15th; it is the perfect mix of art, music, fitness, cuisine, and, most importantly, community.

Jersey City, New Jersey

For the second annual All About Us Festival at Liberty State Park on June 19th. Festival organizers have partnered with the National Juneteenth Museum in

The museum will be in the Historic Southside neighborhood on the corner of Rosedale Street and Evans Avenue in Fort Worth, Texas, and is expected to open in 2026. It will be an epicenter for preserving Juneteenth’s history and a space to foster transformative conversations. If you want to incorporate some of Dr. Lee’s revolutionary spirit into your life. She will complete her annual 2.5-mile walk at the African American Museum of Dallas to recognize the time it took for the news and enforcement of freedom to reach the enslaved people in Texas.

Registration is not limited to those nearby; you can also register virtually to participate. Juneteenth is a time to come together and uplift the voices and stories within our community. Consider looking into events near you. A transformative experience may be closer than you think. As we embrace the spirit of Juneteenth, let’s continue to honor our past, celebrate our present, and hold joy in our hearts for the bright future ahead.

Town of Bloomfield

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071

NOTICE

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Deputy Finance

Director/Controller

Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE. For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

Town of Bloomfield

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Finance Director

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury (HACD) is seeking sealed bids for the following Project:Ives Manor – Parking Lot Structure and Deck Repair. Bid Opeing date is 26th of June 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Housing Authority of the City of Dabury, 2 Mill Ridge Road, Danbury, CT 06811. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

NOTICIA

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

(expected starting pay maximum is mid-range)

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly

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

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

Portland

Police Officer

full-time

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

STEEL CORPORATION

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

Ms.

Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

Assistant Production Manager

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

APPLY NOW!

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

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

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay. Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT

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

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

Help Wanted –

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

FOR

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

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

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

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

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

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

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

Fence Installers:

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

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

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

PVC FENCE PRODUCTION

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

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

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

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

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

Fence Erecting Subcontractors:

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

HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

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

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

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

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

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

NOTICE

MAINTAINER II PUBLIC WORKS

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Attention Landlords!

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

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

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

• Tenants are required to comply with your lease.

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

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT

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

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

NOTICIA

• Tenants are already prescreened for criminal background.

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

• Tenant rent portion is affordable based on income.

• No cost, documented inspections of your unit.

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

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

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

NEW HAVEN

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

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

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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

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

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

May 20, 2024, at 3:00PM.

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any informalities in the bidding, if such actions are in the best interest of the

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

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

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

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

Request for Qualifications

IQC Architectural and Engineering Services

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

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

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

send resume to attielordan@gmail.com

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

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

Emergency Medical Technician

NOTICE

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

The Town of Wallingford Fire Department is seeking qualified applicants for EMT. Applicants must possess a H.S. diploma or GED, and be a Connecticut or National Registry Certified EMT with CPR Certification. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Driver’s license. Wages: $796.53 weekly plus an annual EMT bonus of $2,000 effective 11/1/2023. The Town offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and a deferred compensation plan. To apply online, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/ government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 by the closing date of June 28, 2024. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

SECRETARY-

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

The Town of Wallingford is seeking a highly qualified individual to perform a variety of confidential and responsible administrative duties in support of the Economic Development Commission and its staff. Must possess a High school diploma or GED, plus 5 years’ experience in responsible office work with 1 year of the above experience being in economic development, planning, public relations/marketing or related field. Wages: $ 24.82 - $ 29.72 (Hourly). The Town offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and a deferred compensation plan. To apply online, please visit: www. wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 by the closing date of June 28, 2024. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) is accepting quotes for

GENERAL COUNSEL

SCRCOG is seeking quotes from qualified law firms and/or attorneys to provide general counsel. This RFQ is intended to result in a contract with a qualified law firm or attorney that can provide timely and effective legal support as needed. Disadvantaged, minority, small, and women-owned business enterprises are encouraged to respond. The complete request for quotes (RFQ) document can be obtained on the SCRCOG website, www. scrcog.org/. RFQs shall be submitted in the manner specified to Laura Francis, South Central Regional Council of Governments, 127 Washington Avenue, 4th Floor West, North Haven, CT 06473 until 12:00 P.M. on July 18, 2024. For questions concerning this RFQ, contact Laura Francis, at lfrancis@scrcog.org. SCRCOG is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

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

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

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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

Proposal Documents

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.

at no cost by downloading from the New Haven Union Station Partnership website at https:// unionstationnewhaven.com/bids-and-proposals/.

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

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

Town of Bloomfield

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071

Deputy Finance Director/Controller

Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE.

For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

Town of Bloomfield Finance Director

Salary Range - $101,455 to $156,599 (expected starting pay maximum is mid-range)

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly Pre-employment drug testing. For more details, visit our website –www.bloomfieldct.org

Portland

Police Officer

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

Old Firehouse Road Naugatuck, CT 06770 (One Mixed-Use 4-Story Building, 60 Units)

Project Description: New Construction of a Transit Oriented Development . Project is Taxable. No Wage Rate project.

Project documents include but not limited to: Sitework, landscaping, paving, concrete, gypsum cement underlayment, masonry, misc metals, rough and finish carpentry labor & material, final cleaning, wood trusses, plastic paneling, waterproofing, insulation, siding, membrane roofing, firestopping, doors, frames & hardware, access doors and frames, plastic windows, storefronts, glazing, flooring, gypsum board, acoustical ceilings, painting, signage, toilet, bath & laundry accessories, fire protection specialties, storage lockers, postal specialties, closet specialties, residential appliances, facility waste compactors, horizontal louver blinds, window shades, casework & countertops, entrance mats, bicycle racks, elevators, trash chutes, fire suppression, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, utilities, traffic signs and sanitary facilities.

This contract is subject to state set aside and contract compliance requirements.

If you are interested in bidding and have not received this invitation to bid from us please email: Taylor Els Tels@haynesct.com your business name, contact information and trade, we will add you to Procore and send you the ITB.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

APPLY NOW!

Bid Due Date: July 10, 2024 @ 3pm

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

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

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR BID

AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY Laundry Services

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

IFB No. B24006

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for an Information Technology Senior Policy Advisor to the Secretary in the Office of Finance.

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN:

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

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B24006, Laundry Services

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

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 240611&R2=5571MP&R3=001

Attn: Lisa Gilchrist, Purchasing Agent

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

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

July 15th, 2024 at 10:30am (EST)

HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

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

CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT: Lisa Gilchrist – Purchasing Agent

Telephone: 203-744-2500 x1421

E-Mail: lgilchrist@hacdct.org

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

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

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

Contact: Tom Dunay Phone: 860- 243-2300

Email: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

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

Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Union Company seeks:

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

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Construction

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

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

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

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

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

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

Ms. Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

Senior Sales Representative

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

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

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

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

REQUIREMENTS:

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

Personas en el hogar

Ingreso máximo para

Ingreso máximo para 50%

Ingreso máximo para 60% AMI

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

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

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

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

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

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

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

360 Management

Group Company is currently accepting applications for Mill River Crossing

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

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

REQUIREMENTS:

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

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

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

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

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

Ms. Devin Marra

Acting Executive Director

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

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

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

Scan the QRL code to apply!

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

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

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

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

FOR

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

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

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

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

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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

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

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

Listing:  Commercial Driver

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

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

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

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

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

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

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

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

HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

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

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

As White ‘Deaths of Despair’ Made News, Black Ones Skyrocketed

By Jennifer Porter Gore, Word in Black | San Diego Voice and Viewpoint

A little less than a decade ago, it was alarming news that shook the nation. Deaths from suicide, drug overdose, and alcohol-related liver disease were slashing the life expectancy among white Americans.

The “deaths of despair” phenomenon centered mostly on non-college-educated whites whose declining socioeconomic conditions, researchers said, led to a spike in premature deaths between 1999 and 2013.

But researchers at the University of California-Los Angeles medical school and other institutions have found that deaths of despair have skyrocketed during the last 7 years. The spike, researchers say, has been fueled by the exploding use of illegal drugs such as fentanyl and heroin, as well as an increase in alcohol-related deaths around the same time as the COVID-19 pandemic began.

In fact, “[f]rom 2015 to 2022, the mortality rate from deaths of despair nearly tripled among Black people and it also has surpassed the rate among white people,” says the analysis, published in JAMA Psychiatry. The rates among American Indian or Alaska Native midlife adults in 2022 also were nearly 2.4 times higher than for whites.

“While the opioid crisis did raise drug overdose deaths among white Americans for a time, it was an anomaly,” says Joseph Friedman, the social medicine expert at UCLA who was the lead author on the analysis. But by 2022, he says,

the rate of such deaths among whites had started to decline but had increased exponentially among Black people.

“What’s really important is that now, with these three causes of death, the gap has closed, and it’s moving in the other direction,” Friedman said. The deaths of despair theory reached the national agenda in 2015 when two Princeton University economists argued that poor mental health, stemming from a lack of economic opportunities, was behind rising premature mortality rates among less-educated whites.

The UCLA researchers added that flaws in the methodology of the 2015 report didn’t give enough consideration to longstanding racial inequities in income, educational attainment, incarceration, and access to quality medical care. Those factors, they wrote, can contribute to drug use and poor mental health outcomes.

Because they did not consider those flaws, the Princeton study distorted conclusions about who was most at risk of death of despair, according to the UCLA research. Statistics for Native Americans weren’t included at all, which UCLA first pointed out in a January 2023 report.

“It was burned into the American psyche that it was white people in the rural U.S.” who were most at risk of dying prematurely, Friedman said. “It was just a very small piece of the truth that was very interesting but was widely sold as something it wasn’t.”

Without question, America’s mental health crisis writ large has gained more attention in the past two decades, and it became Topic A during the COVID-19

pandemic. Yet multiple studies show overall well-being is still under-addressed and under-treated — especially among Black Americans, who continue to face barriers to adequate mental health care. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, 1in 5 adults in the U.S. live with a mental illness, including just over 21% of Black people. Suicide is now the second-leading cause of death among young people ages 10 to 14, and the suicide rate among Black youth ages 10 to 19 surpassed that of white

peers for the first time in 2022. The rate has increased 54% since 2018, compared to a 17% decrease for white youth. But almost 20% of all youth ages six to 17 experience a mental health disorder each year, ranging from anxiety and depression to more severe illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Despite the fact that racism is recognized as a public health crisis, access to medical care for Black people — including mental health care — remains a significant challenge. More than half of all adults with

mental illness do not receive treatment, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. An analysis from KFF, a health policy research firm, issued last week found that Black (39%) and Latino (36%) adults who report fair or poor mental health are less likely than white adults (50%) to say they received mental health services in the past three years. Barriers to access included “costs and difficulties finding providers, with people of color citing additional challenges such as difficulty finding providers with shared background and experiences, lack of information, and stigma and embarrassment,” according to the KFF analysis.

Having culturally competent care — clinicians intimately familiar with the lived experiences of historically disadvantaged groups — is essential for effective mental health treatment. Yet according to the KFF survey, 41% of Black respondents said it was either “somewhat” or “very difficult” to find a mental health care provider who understood their issues, could schedule an appointment in a timely manner, and who were affordable. At the same time, just 4% of psychologists and 2% of psychiatrists are Black, according to their respective medical professional organizations. Experts say that further exacerbates the challenge of finding culturally competent care. If you need emotional support, are thinking about suicide, or are worried about someone else, call or text the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Help is available 24/7. TTY users can dial 711 then 988 to get help.

Christian Cooper: From Central Park Karen’s target to Emmy-winning birdwatcher

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire National Correspondent

Four years after a racist encounter with a so-called “Karen,” Christian Cooper has earned the ultimate payback: a Daytime Emmy Award for his passionate love of birdwatching. The racially charged incident, which took place in 2020, not only spotlighted systemic racial issues but also paved the way for Cooper’s extraordinary success.

It was a sunny day when Cooper, an avid birdwatcher, found himself in the Ramble, a secluded area of Central Park known for its rich bird population. As he enjoyed the tranquility of the natural habitat, he noticed a dog running off-leash, violating park rules designed to protect his beloved birds. Concerned, Cooper approached the dog’s owner, Amy Cooper (no relation), requesting that she leash her dog.

Christian Cooper in conversation with Whoopi Goldberg discussing his Nat Geo television show “Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper” at the 92nd Street Y on July 12, 2023, in New York.

What followed was a disturbing dis-

play of racial bias. Amy threatened to call the police and make a false claim that “an African-American man” was threatening her life. Christian captured the incident on video, which quickly went viral and brought attention to the racial tensions that ignited during the time of George Floyd’s murder in Minnesota.

“I knew something like this could happen to me, as a birder who is Black,” said Christian Cooper, a Harvard alumnus and accomplished writer and editor.

In a twist of fate, the viral incident caught the attention of National Geographic, leading to the creation of his show, “Extraordinary Birder,” which

premiered in 2023. The show has since garnered critical acclaim, culminating in Cooper winning the Daytime Emmy Award this week for Outstanding Daytime Personality.

“No matter what anybody says or does, we are not going back,” Cooper said during his Emmy Award acceptance speech.

“We will only move forward together.”

Cooper’s run-in with Amy, who has since been dubbed “Central Park Karen,” exemplifies the challenges he faced. The altercation not only led to Amy losing her job but also highlighted the dangerous misuse of racial stereotypes and the potentially life-threatening consequences for Black individuals.

Beyond his television success, Cooper has also made his mark as an author.

He penned the memoir “Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World,” which delves into his life experiences and passion for birdwatching. Additionally, he drew inspiration from the Central Park incident for his graphic novel “It’s A Bird,” featured in DC Comics’ digital series “Represent!”

Cooper said he aims to address the

structural barriers that prevent Black and Brown communities from engaging with nature.

“Black and brown people go to the national parks far less than our proportion in the population,” Cooper said during a 2023 interview.

“I think there’s a lot of structural reasons for that,” he added. “I think some of them are in terms of legacy problems that affect our communities and built-in barriers. For example, if you are working two or three jobs to keep a roof over your head, you’re not necessarily going to have the money to be able to send your kids to a summer camp where they can develop an appreciation for nature.

“They’re not going to have that connection to nature to want to go out to the great outdoors. So, we’ve got a lot of things to overcome, and that’s one of the things I’m hoping the show will do—get a lot of Black and Brown kids thinking, ‘Oh, he’s looking at birds. He’s outdoors. Maybe I can do that.’ Because it’s so much easier to picture yourself doing it if you can see somebody who looks like you already doing it.”