THE INNER CITY NEWS

INNER-CITY INNER-CITY

Juneteenth Sermon Honors The Past

by JABEZ CHOI

At a Juneteenth worship service on Dixwell Avenue Wednesday morning, Yale Divinity School Associate Professor Clifton Granby asked: “Has freedom really settled in?”

Granby delivered his sermon at Dixwell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ at 217 Dixwell Ave.

In a partnership between the church and Andover Newton Seminary at the Yale Divinity School (YDS), the service included poetry readings, song, and sermons. All centered on not just the freedom of enslaved peoples in the past but on a continual practice of remembrance. To Granby, this is “what Juneteenth is all about.”

“It’s about the undying spirit of liberation, and yielding insistence on the primacy of joy,” Granby said.

The service took place on a local and national holiday marking the proclamation of the end of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865, and celebrating Black freedom. Titled “Take Care to Remember,” Granby’s sermon on Wednesday discussed the inequities of today, questioning if oppressed people can accept that freedom has truly arrived considering that it has not arrived for everyone. Granby focused in particular on the current violent displacements of peoples in Sudan and Palestinians in Gaza. He referenced the story of Exodus in which the Israelites escaped enslavement from the Egyptians.

Freedom, to Granby, did not arrive when they escaped Egypt, noting the challenges of faith and uncertainty in the wilderness that befell the Israelites.

“How are people to preserve their sense of collective identity when the howling winds of fatigue, persecution, and trauma threaten to take over?” Granby asked.

He pointed to the incessant need for the people of today to remember the efforts of the past that have gotten a collective clos-

er to freedom. In specific, Granby highlighted the history of George Washington Williams. After fighting in the Civil War and in Mexico, Williams returned to civilian life and began collegiate studies in religion. Initially enrolling at Howard College, he left to pursue a degree at Newton Theological Seminary. Williams was the first African-American graduate of the Andover Newton Seminary in 1874.

Wednesday morning, a summit with

the Andover Newton Seminary studying African-American alumni of the Newton School, and Williams in particular, joined the congregation in the worship service.

Interim Pastor Andre Gilford also emphasized the need for remembrance, pointing to the history of the Dixwell church itself.

According to Gilford, the church was founded as a protest to White churches like the Center Congregational Church on the New Haven Green which did not

allow Black worshippers. Since then, instrumental organizers and civil rights leaders, like George Crawford and former Greater New Haven NAACP Pastor Edwin Edmonds, also served as members and leaders at the Dixwell church. For Gilford, Juneteenth is a way to honor those before him.

“We celebrate Juneteenth every day of the year,” Gilford said. “While it is a holiday that is on one particular day, it spills throughout the entire year.”

But with the remembrance, Granby urged members of the congregation not to forget the joy and hope in the midst of struggle.

“There is so much to celebrate. And so much to mourn,” Granby said. “I practically and spiritually cannot commit to a future with no hope. Why? Because children still have to be raised.”

This resonated with Deacon Roslyn Hamilton, who thought of her son who lives in West Haven. He had just celebrated Father’s Day, attending a cookout with his family. After the service ended, congregation members and YDS members alike shared greetings. As the piano played in the background, they hugged, laughed, then shared conversation downstairs in the basement over lemonade and cake.

“You can’t have all suffering,” Hamilton said, with her eyes softening. “You have to mix in joy.”

Hill Plans For Future “Union Square”

by JABEZ CHOI

Hill resident Aura Soto showed up with her two children to the latest planning meeting for the future of the former Church Street South site with concerns about neighborhood safety, and ideas about educational programs to “keep the kids busy and out of trouble.”

She left feeling optimistic. “With the help of the people,” Soto said, looking around at those gathered in the cafeteria of High School in the Community, “we will make it a better place.”

Soto was one of nearly two dozen attendees at Thursday night’s meeting of the Union Square Transformation Committee, held at 175 Water St.

The get-together marked the latest public input session after the city’s public housing authority purchased the 8.27acre vacant property across from Union Station last November for $21 million and announced plans to build up that site into a high-density, mixed-use, mixedincome development.

The vacant plot used to be home to the

privately-owned, government-rent-subsidized 301-unit Church Street South apartment complex, which was demolished in 2018 after years of neglected maintenance destroyed roofs and walls and poisoned kids with asthma.

On Thursday, the housing authority-led committee gathered neighbors and interested residents to continue imagining what could be built there instead at a train station-proximate property redubbed “Union Square.”

Thursday night’s listening session was led by Union Square Transformation Committee Program Manager Haley Vincent and designer Chris DiStasi. The session served as a touchstone between the committee and community members as the development on the property continues.

“The big question is: are we getting it right?” DiStasi asked the room of about 20 Hill residents.

Five posters sat at the front of the room with different themes: Connectivity and Mobility, Health and Safety, Educational Attainment, Economic Mobility, and Housing and Affordability.

At the bottom of each poster was a blank portion for residents to sticky note their suggestions. Among these suggestions, many focused on more educational resources, affordable housing, increased security, accessible transportation services, and available medical centers.

For Hill resident Mayra Pabron, accessi-

ble and affordable housing was a key concern. As someone with a high heart rate and difficulty walking, Pabron wrote on her sticky note that she wanted more access to hospitals and medical services as well as to be able to easily reach them.

“Right now, I live on the third floor and my heart rate is high,” Pabron said.

“Lower buildings would be a better place to live.”

Nickelle Cooper, another Hill neighbor, emphasized educational reform, wanting the committee to focus on quality libraries and schools to be built in the redeveloped neighborhood. Additionally, Cooper wanted leaders who would stay invested in the community.

“I want people that care and people who are invested in the neighborhood, not people who need a photo op,” Cooper said. The housing authority received a $500,000 planning grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development last fall. The committee intends to follow a sixphase plan before developing a Neighborhood Transformation Plan and applying for another much larger grant to fund the reconstruction.

The phases include needs assessments and plan revisions. Though the planning grant outlines a two-year long timeline, Vincent estimates that the committee will not need the full two years, as they “hit the

JABEZ CHOI PHOTO At Dixwell UCC's Juneteenth service on Wednesday.

The new haven independent

Mayra Pabron: “Lower buildings would be a better place to live.”

The new haven independent

Gun Violence Survivor Visits Hartford To Offer Healing

One of the most traumatic aspects of being shot was being released from the hospital back into the neighborhood where he was almost killed. That trauma, he said, impacted him and the young man who shot him. ASWAD

by Jamil Ragland

HARTFORD, CT – Gun violence survivors and advocates gathered at The Artists Collective in the city’s north end Tuesday to call attention to the harms of gun violence and also to suggest a different way forward to address the problem, focusing on healing and support.

The “Right to Heal” event was hosted by Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice (CSSJ), a nonprofit national network of 187,000 crime survivors dedicated to advocating for a justice system that prioritizes healing, prevention, and recovery. CSSJ is the flagship initiative of the Alliance for Safety and Justice.

One of the speakers at the event – Aswad Thomas – was a survivor of gun violence himself in Hartford. Thomas spoke about his own experience when he was shot twice in the back during a robbery attempt in August 2009. His injuries ended a promising basketball career, and he said that one of the most traumatic aspects of being shot was being released from the hospital back into the neighborhood where he was almost killed. That trauma, he said, impacted him and the young man who shot him.

“One of teenagers that shot me was also a victim of gun violence as well. That

same doctor that saved my life, saved that teenager’s life as well,” he said.

Thomas said he wanted to help end the cycle of violence. After he graduated from the University of Connecticut with a masters in social work, he joined CSSJ. In the years since, he has become vice president for the Alliance for Safety and

Justice, and the national director of CSSJ. Hartford is the first city in CSSJ’s “Right to Heal” tour, which will include stops in Atlanta, Detroit, Philadelphia, and other locations around the country. The tour is designed to offer a unique venue for survivors, advocates, and stakeholders to share their experiences, insights, and

public safety vision. The tours are leading up to the first ever Crime Survivors Speak March on Washington later this year in September to push for a right to heal policy agenda.

For Thomas and other advocates, healing is the key element of preventing gun violence. The policy proposals he and

THOMAS

CSSJ are advocating for include trauma recovery centers for crime victims, funding for community-based organizations that provide peer-to-peer support for victims, flexible victim assistance funds to help them on their path to recovery, and other policies that prioritize serving victims over punishing perpetrators.

The Right to Heal tour kicked off in June, which is National Gun Violence Awareness Month. The United States continues to deal with staggering numbers of deaths and injuries caused by guns. According to the Gun Violence Archive, 18,854 people were killed in 2023 by guns, while 36,338 were injured by them. Those figures include both intentional and accidental gun incidents. While the number of fatalities and injuries caused by guns have decreased since 2021, the numbers remain elevated over pre-pandemic levels.

Hartford has followed the national trend and seen a decrease in gun violence in the city in recent years. According to the Council on Criminal Justice, the capital city saw 28 gun murders and 97 nonfatal shootings in 2023, down from numbers over the last three years.

Thomas said that the decrease in gun violence is a good start, but more needs to be done.

Advisory Board Releases 2022 Racial Profiling Data

Report Says 3 State

by Jamil Ragland

HARTFORD, CT – A report released by the state agency tasked with remedying racial profiling in traffic stops in Connecticut found that while police were not more likely to stop non-White drivers in 2022 overall, several police agencies were more likely to stop and search non-White drivers.

The report, released Thursday by the Connecticut Racial Profiling Prohibition Project Advisory Board, showed that while police stops increased year over year from 2021 to 2022, the total number remains below pre-pandemic levels.

According to the report, municipal and state police departments in Connecticut made a total of 313,347 traffic stops in 2022, of which 59% were of White motorists, 19% were Black, and 18% were Hispanic.

Also in 2022, municipal and state police departments conducted a total of 2,580 discretionary motor vehicle searches, of which 36% were White motorists, 31% were Black, and 34% were Hispanic. The rate at which discretionary searches of White motorists yielded contraband was 41% in 2022, while the rate at which

Police Troops And 2 Towns Were More Likely to Stop And Search Non-White Drivers

searches of Black and Hispanic motorists yielded contraband was 33% and 36%, respectively, in 2022. That means that nonWhite drivers did face a statistically higher chance of being searched during traffic stops despite their lower chance of being found with contraband.

The report also says there was a major difference in traffic stop outcomes for nonWhite drivers based on daylight conditions, which is referred to by the advisory board as “solar visibility.”

The report says the data indicate that the state police troops and municipal police departments showing statistically significant discrepancies were more likely to stop non-White drivers during daylight hours when race could be more easily determined.

The state police troops on that list include Troops D, E and H, and the municipalities included Berlin and Guilford. The board outlined several mitigating factors that could explain the discrepancy for Guilford, such as the inclusion of regional arrest data in the town’s reporting and a more diverse driver pool utilizing highways in and around Guilford relative to the town’s population.

The advisory board also looked into the

reliability of the data it received about traffic stops, and said it had developed a process to reconcile discrepancies in the data from the state police. That information will be released in a supplemental report which the board hopes to complete by fall of this year.

“What our main concern has always been is what data is coming into the system, and how reliable can we consider that data?” said Jim Fazzalaro, project manager for the Connecticut Racial Profiling Prohibition Project. “We’ve spent a lot of time working with the state police, getting at what was there, what went wrong, what things we can correct by resetting how we do things and what things we can’t correct.”

Ronnell Higgins, commissioner of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, addressed the issue of data reliability directly.

“The seven recommendations from the [Connecticut Racial Profiling Prohibition Project] have been thoroughly considered, and many already put into practice,” he said, referring to the audit from the Project that found that thousands of tickets had been improperly entered into the state’s ra-

Hartford crime victim Aswad Thomas talks about recovery in a video from Twitter. Credit: Social media image / Aswad Thomas on social media

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Investors Win Row Home Auctions

by ARTHUR DELOT-VILAIN

Two different landlords ended up on top of two adjacent tax foreclosure auctions effectively closing the books on a decades-old co-op on Henry Street between Orchard and Dixwell.

Court-appointed attorney Steven J. Grant oversaw those back-to-back auctions the first at 139 Henry St., the second at 127 Henry on Saturday at around noon.

The attached brick buildings are two of the three properties that make up the University Row Homes co-op.

The high bidder for the eight-unit property at 139 Henry was Alpha Acquisitions and Vanguard Private Client Services CEO Alex Opuszynski, who won with a final bid of $1 million.

The high bidder for the the four-unit block at 127 Henry was Jianchao Xu, or “JC,” who won with a final bid of $480,000, as submitted by his company Nash Street New Haven, LLP.

Saturday’s auction marked the culmination of two of three tax foreclosure lawsuits filed by the City of New Haven in December 2023 against University Row Homes, Inc.. for the three attached properties at 127, 133, and 139 Henry Street.

The third co-op property, at 133 Henry, is scheduled to go to auction in July. The back tax and interest debt across the three properties totaled approximately $110,000.

Nine prospective buyers showed up on Saturday to bid on 139 Henry, the first property to go up for auction. Michael Eshetu, who came in from White Plains, N.Y., said he “usually buys foreclosures.”

The Henry Street properties were an attractive investment, he said, because they have multiple units under one roof.

“Multi-families are a hot commodity right now,” Eshetu said. “I’d probably renovate the units and try to get fair market price.”

Also at the auction was Shenae Draughn, the vice president for Elm City Communities, the umbrella agency that includes New Haven’s public housing authority and its nonprofit development arm. Draughn was there to bid on behalf of the city’s housing authority in hopes of preserving the row homes, whose rent was largely paid by federal Department of Housing and Urban Development subsidies until February, as mixed-income housing. If they won on Saturday, the housing authority would do a “capital needs assessment,” Draughn said, and “bring [the homes] up to a quality standard that people would want to call home.”

Opuszynski came to the auction with Vanguard Private Client Services VP Andrew Stein. “Immediately I would do a tax assessment,” Opuszynski said, noting that 139 Henry had been incorrectly assessed by the city as a nine-unit proper-

ty (rather than eight), and as being in very good condition when, according to Stein and Opuszynski, it isn’t. Current tenants have complained about leaky roofs resulting in flooding and mold over the last year, a problem Opuszynski said began two years ago.

Opuszynski said he would try to “maximize the unit mix.” “If I got it,” he added, “I would try to work out a deal with the Housing Authority to keep it affordable, in general.”

Opuszynski had been working to buy the property before it went into foreclosure. He noted his frustration with Michael Maynard, the president of the University Row Homes, Inc. co-op board. “Ultimately [Maynard was] in control of

Housing Authority by $1,000 each time they placed a new bid.

Ultimately, Opuszynski won the auction at $1 million even. “I’m working with public money,” Elm City Communities Executive Director Karen DuBois-Walton said as the auction ended.

“I hope they do right,” DuBois Walton said. “We would’ve invested in this made it affordable.”

Opuszynski was happy to get the property even though he went over budget. “I would consider that overspending,” Opuszynski said.

The Housing Authority did not enter bids on the second property at 127 Henry, so the path seemed clear for Opuszynski’s firm to acquire both properties. Ahead of the second auction, Grant explained the rules again and tried to rein in the bidders.

“Come on. Let’s focus,” Grant said. After the prospective buyers deposited their $70,000 for the right to bid on 127 Henry, the auction opened at $38,500.

The second auction took 82 bids to complete, twice the amount of the first auction.

The six bidders in the second auction each stayed in the mix much longer than the first time around. It largely came down to an intense nickel-and-dime fight between Xu’s Nash Street New Haven and Brie Bryant, who grew up in the neighborhood and returned to town to participate in this auction.

Instead of margins of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000 dollars, the bids in the 127 Henry auction inched up by $50, $200, and $500.

After entering a bid of $470,050, Bryant said, “Some of us grew up here. Just saying.”

Opuszynski, who had been in the bidding up until then, immediately stopped entering bids.

Xu then closed the auction with a $480,000 bid. Both Bryant and Xu declined to be photographed or interviewed by the Independent.

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the finances for a while. They withheld the information that could have possibly helped” clear title to make a purchase possible, he claimed. (Maynard did not respond to requests for comment.)

The auction started at noon, after each of the bidders had turned their $105,000 deposits over to Grant. Grant explained the rules of the auction, then opened the bidding at $53,650.

Opuszynski made the first move, raising the bid to $250,000. After some backand-forth, there were three bidders left above $755,000: Opuszynski, Draughn, and Xu.

The bidding war was mostly between Opuzysnki and Draughn, while Xu focused on out-bidding Draughn and the

The buyers now have 30 days to pay the city in full. Meanwhile, residents of the buildings’ 12 occupied homes are on their way elsewhere with portable Housing and Urban Development vouchers distributed by Elm City Communities.

Opuszynski claimed that University Row Homes property manager Sharon Manns went above and beyond her role as property manager to obtain vouchers for the residents. “[She’s] not a social worker,” he said. DuBois-Walton said the families were legally protected as residents of a home with a HUD-backed mortgage.

“There was an obligation to protect the families, it’s a right of these folks,” DuBois-Walton said.

“The voucher is there for them. It will not expire,” she promised.

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Housing authority's Karen DuBois-Walton, Shenae Draughn, and Jim Turcio, outbid by Opuszynski: “We would've invested in this -- made it affordable.”

ARTHUR DELOT-VILAIN PHOTOS University Row Homes auction winner Alex Opuszynski, with attorney Grant: Looking to "maximize the unit mix."

The new haven independent

Racial Profiling

cial profiling database. “These include improved and expanded training for troopers, racial profiling records, expanded supervision and review of racial profiling records and data submitted by troopers … and numerous additional actions, procedures and safeguards.”

The Connecticut Racial Profiling Prohibition Project Advisory Board was established in 2012 to assist the Office of Policy and Management in adopting the methods and guidelines laid out by the Alvin W. Penn Racial Profiling Prohibition Act of 1999.

The law prohibits any law enforcement agency in the state from stopping, detaining, or searching motorists when the stop is motivated solely by considerations of the race, color, ethnicity, age, gender, or sexual orientation of that individual. The law underwent several major revisions in 2012 and 2013 to improve implementation, and as a result police agencies began collecting data pertaining to all traffic stops in October 2013. An additional law, An Act Concerning Traffic Stop Information, standardized the reporting requirements for law enforcement agencies.

The advisory board also nominated two new board members. Chief John “Jack” Drumm of the Madison Police Department, and Dr. Kelly Mero, an education consultant with the state Department of Education.

Board chair William Dyson ended the meeting by praising the group for its dedication to addressing racial disparities in traffic stops.

“Cooperation from people such as yourselves has enhanced this work, and I’m pleased with that,” he said. “I hope we continue what we’ve been doing, which is putting [racial disparities] on the table, talking about it, and confronting it. Things are, no doubt, much better because of it.”

Con’t from page 02

Hill Plans

ground running.”

Currently, the committee is in the second phase, which includes needs assessments of residents. Yale School of Management is conducting surveys and needs assessments of the 92 tenants of the Robert T. Wolfe apartments and former residents of the Church Street South site.

The housing authority plans to demolish the Robert T. Wolfe building as part of this redevelopment project. It also has not yet settled on a definite number of new apartments to build on the vacant site.

Church Street South’s former landlord, Northland Investment Corp., initially sought to redevelop the site into 1,000 new apartments, with 300 set aside at affordable rents. Its plans stalled for years, leaving the property’s future in limbo until the housing authority, also known as Elm City Communities, purchased it late last year.

Union Chiefs: Schools Are For People

by MAYA MCFADDEN

The New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) district began the school year scrambling to hire educators to address a teacher shortage.

It’s ending the school year with the announcement of staff cuts to come.

To the leaders of the city’s two classroomfacing unions, that mixed messaging is a problem and reflects the broader challenges of understaffing, budget crunches, and inconsistent communication across the district. It also underscores the imperative of putting students’ needs first.

Local teachers union president Leslie Blatteau and paraprofessionals union president Hyclis Williams pointed out that apparent contradiction during an end-of-year sit down interview with the Independent Monday at the teachers union headquarters at 267 Chapel St.

For years, the duo have worked together to build a community/union coalition to support the school district through its challenges like educator flight and underfunding from the state. The duo said that collaborative work will continue with more vigor in the future as NHPS looks to close an expected $12 million budget deficit for the 2024 – 25 school year budget which the superintendent has said could lead to up to 61 NHPS staff cuts.

Blatteau has led the teachers union for the past two and a half years. Williams has been president of the paraprofessionals union for almost five years.

“We still started in August with significant shortages and now we’re wrapping up wondering what’s getting cut,” Blatteau said. She said she and fellow educators feel whiplash over this latest announcement, because local schools still feel understaffed.

“Students are telling us that they need continued support. Families are communicating that they need support. And in a time when we need more support, it’s hard to process the threat of cuts,” Blatteau said.

At the same time, both union leaders said, classroom-facing staff like teachers and paras are celebrating the growth made this year in spite of being underfunded and a national narrative that says public schools aren’t doing enough.

Communication Could Be Better How is communication between district leadership and teachers in the classrooms? Blatteau said there’s always room for more “listening [to] authentic lived experiences.”

That said, teachers union leadership does have monthly meetings with the superintendent, per a term of the union’s contract. And while educators are able to contribute to the superintendent’s next strategic plan through structured input sessions, she said district leaders should pull up a chair more often and listen to educators’ ideas and experiences in more “organic” ways, too.

“We need to peal back the layers of bureaucracy and have real conversations about what’s impacting us. Where are the more purposeful interactions?” Blatteau said. “It cost them nothing.”

Williams said the paraprofessionals union

does not have monthly meetings with the superintendent written into its contract. She instead schedules appointments with district leaders when concerns come up. She’d like to see more consistent meeting with central office leadership. “It goes a long way to just designate time to us,” Williams said.

Williams did say this year’s strategic planning process was memorable for her because it was her first time seeing such a diverse group of stakeholders come together to discuss the district’s future.

Still No Paras Contract

Williams pointed out that a top concern to her and her union members is that the paraprofessionals union will be going into another school year without a contract. The contested union deal is now in arbitration.

The current paras contract expired on June 30, 2023.

For months, dozens of district paras have pleaded to the school board that the district return to the table to renegotiate rather than spending funds it doesn’t have on a legal battle.

Williams proposed that instead of staff cuts, the district could have saved on spending by not taking the para contract to arbitration as well as spending less money on attorneys. Blatteau agreed that costs could be cut not by laying off staff but by more carefully spending money on lawsuits and attorney fees.

“They pay attorneys to pay us down,” Williams said.

She continued, “A lot of paras have bachelors degrees, masters degrees.” Some even

Shack Kids Beat Heat With Sweet Treats

have PhDs and law degrees. “We have professionals who otherwise would take another job but most of the paras are parents, they want to work with the public schools to make a difference in children’s lives.” Williams added that the paras want the new superintendent to succeed and for the district to grow and do better but “people need to eat and to feel that they can go home and meet their basic needs. Even though members don’t have, they see the needs of students. They put the needs of the students first even if it means they go to the soup kitchen to collect something and make sure that a student has a meal or what they need.”

”We’ve been filling in the blanks for so long and making do with what we have, there’s nobody left to cut. We don’t have enough staff,” Williams said.

When asked if expected school closures should have come before staff layoffs, Blatteau repeated the words of Board of Education Vice President Matt Wilcox: “Just closing a school does not generate millions of dollars in savings.” She continued: “What’s most expensive about a school system are the human beings.”

She urged that the consolidation process be done with consideration to the impact on community and avoiding the creation of a vacuum to be filled by expensive privatized programs or charter schools. “Those schools that were built 20 years ago weren’t given a fighting chance to survive past 20 years. So why is it that we don’t have

sundaes they played basketball on the outdoor court.

The temperature rose, and ice cream flowed, as neighborhood fifth-grader Saniyah cooled down during New Haven’s heat wave with the help of an Oreo and fudge vanilla sundae.

She found that cooling treat Friday afternoon thanks to an ice cream pop up shop hosted at the 333 Valley St. community center known as “The Shack.”

The event was organized by Shack partners Andrea Daniels-Singleton and Jerrell Merritt.

With a stock of 200 waffle cones and two 11-liter tubs of strawberry and vanilla ice cream, the two served ice cream to dozens of West Rock youth for an hour on Friday.

Daniels-Singleton said the ice cream social was an expression of gratitude to the youth for a successful school year.

After seeing a social media post about the event, Valley Street mother Shiya brought her daughter Kenadi and her nieces to The Shack to cool down midday.

As kids waited in line for cones and

After more than 20 kids got a first round of cooling treats, several kids jumped right back in line to get seconds.

Shack staffers said several of the kids that joined the Friday ice cream line were new to the neighborhood’s newly built Valley Townhouses.

The kids rode bikes to The Shack to hang out in its outdoor play space and nearby playground.

Fourth grader Lauren, fifth graders Tieren and Saniyah, and seventh grader Princess-Ny’Ari enjoyed their sundaes outside the Shack at a picnic table. They enjoyed their ice cream with toppings like bananas, rainbow sprinkles, and whipped cream.

Besides picking up their ice creams because it was hot Friday, with temperatures reaching 88 degrees, the group also said they like to gather with their community, get free food, and get more than one serving.

“They’re so nice for giving out ice cream,” Saniyah said. “And it’s free ice cream. Most people don’t do that.”

Organizers of Friday’s ice cream social Andrea Daniels-Singleton and Jerrell Merritt. by MAYA MCFADDEN

MAYA MCFADDEN PHOTO Williams and Blatteau: Human-centered schools a priority.

The new haven independent

Bike Share Is Coming Back

by THOMAS BREEN

Short-term bike rentals are coming back to New Haven this time with e-bikes thanks to a new agreement inked by the parking authority and a San Francisco-based bike share provider.

Park New Haven’s board approved that professional services agreement with Drop Mobility in March.

The new bike share program is set to begin in New Haven later this summer.

It comes more than four years after a previous local bike share effort, run by a New York City-based company called P3 Global Management and funded in part by (controversial) advertisements placed in sidewalk panels around the city, fell apart after two years of operation.

The parking authority, run by former city transit director Doug Hausladen, put out a request for proposals (RFP) last summer seeking a new vendor for a revived program.

Per the agreement OK’d by the parking authority’s board iat its March meeting, that new program will be spearheaded by Drop Mobility, which already runs bike share programs in New Orleans, Tulsa, Colorado Springs, and Kansas City, among other locations, according to its website.

“We are excited. New Haven needs it,” said Devil’s Gear bike shop co-owner Johnny Brehon. “New Haven is a bikeable city. Period. It’s micro-mobility. People are

coming here and asking, ‘Where’s your bike share?’ ” Now, at long last, there will be one again.

Brehon also co-runs a separate company called New Haven Bike Share Mechanics LLC. That company, with a total of four employees, will contract with the parking authority and Drop Mobility to maintain and relocate the bike share bikes from station to station, just as they did for the previous local bike share.

This time, that maintenance work will include replacing batteries, as the new bike share is slated to include both e-bikes and pedal bikes.

Meeting minutes from the parking authority board’s March 25 meeting indicate that the parking authority will use 100 existing “conventional” pedal bikes, held over from the previous bike share program, and buy 100 new electronic bikes.

Brehon said the inclusion of e-bikes in this new bike share program should contribute to its success. There’s “a big push for e-bikes now,” he said. They’re very popular in other bike share programs across the country, including in New York City. People regularly come in to Devil’s Gear asking about and seeking out e-bikes.

The March 25 parking authority board meeting minutes and the parking authority’s services agreement with Drop Mobility state that the term for this new bike share program is five years, with two optional renewal terms.

Hausladen told the Independent that the bike share program’s pricing model, and even its name, haven’t been finalized yet. He said he should have more info by midJuly, with a hopeful “soft launch” of the program by the end of July or August. He also said that the parking authority and the city’s transportation department will own the bikes this time around, and will be contracting with Drop Mobility to operate the program. While ads paid for the program last time around, that’s not the idea for this version.

The parking authority board meeting minutes identidy three revenue sources for this program: user fees, sponsorships, and “direct leasing or marketing.”

The parking authority-Drop Mobility agreement states that the bike share provider will be compensated for equipment and set up fees, fees for ongoing operations, “optional hardware fees,” and revenue sharing.

The first year of the program will see the bike share provider paid no more than $378,500 for equipment and set up fees, no more than $184,000 for ongoing operations, and no more than $221,000 for hardware fees, with subsequent years’ fees still to be negotiated.

“We are excited,” Brehon reiterated. “We can’t wait to move forward” with another bike share in New Haven.

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

With

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 awards: end of May)

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

THOMAS BREEN FILE PHOTO Checking the gear shifts on a former bike share bike. After 4-year hiatus, new rental program is en route.

The new haven independent

At Third Space, Punq Noire Grows Its Voice

Dayne Bell, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

In the dimly lit basement of Third Space New Haven, rap artist Sunshine sat on one of the sofas while his music played, nodding to the beat as others began to enter. Allie Bee stood by the front of the room, setting up an amp for their performance. When all was set, a group gathered on cushions and chairs as the space began to fill with music and vibrant energy.

That sound came to Third Space last Thursday, as Punq Noire partnered with the venue for the third iteration of its “Open Stage Night.” The evening encourages expression through art in an easy going, no-pressure event for all mediums and disciplines.

Third Space is a gaming and arcade lounge, where visitors play a variety of video and board games with a day pass or a membership. Owner and founder Mike Brown also rents space to outside artists for events. This collaboration has been running since April, when Punq Noire Founder Dymin Ellis (a.k.a. rap artist In-

digaux The Fae), reached out to Brown and pitched the idea to host open mic nights in the facility.

“We wanted to be able to provide a space for people from all walks of life, across

all interests,” Brown said. Ellis added that the 18-and-over event intends to draw in locals and provide them with low-cost ways to be active in the community.

The open mics are hosted monthly, and the show that took place this past Thursday featured performances from seven artists. True to the curators' intent, the performances of music and poetry ranged

greatly in genre and style.

The opening artist for this night was Aly (they asked to share only their first name) of Angel Piss, who shared beautifully haunting and eerie tunes on their guitar. Among their songs was “Fox Wives,” a slightly gory, horror-inspired tune. Their performance of their songs included yips, groans, and other forms of speak-singing, a feature that is present in other work by Angel Piss. Aly’s guitar work and vocals emulated the eerie, gothic energy of the music produced by the full band, layered with dissonance and musical effects that made the listener uneasy.

Allie Bee followed, playing bass guitar over instrumental backings they produced. While a listener could identify influences including funk and jazz , their songs were woven with elements of many genres across time, including (but not limited to) psychedelic rock and EDM. “It’s a mix of so many genres that I feel like it’s its own thing. I think that’s what I love about it, it’s unique to me,” they said.

Daweed came next, sharing spoken word

Con;t on page 11

Cleanup Crew Hits Newhallville

by ABIBA BIAO

Felicia Jones couldn’t believe how much trash her former neighbors had dumped at the corner of Read and Butler streets.

Two weeks after those neighbors had moved out, the pile remained stopping fellow Newhallville resident Gwenadine Felder in her tracks as she made her way down the block to pick up litter as part of a neighborhood cleanup.

Felder and seven others took part in Saturday morning’s cleanup, which was organized by Newhallville Alder Brittiany Mabery-Niblack and Ward 20 Democratic Co-Chairs Barbara Vereen and Latoya Agnew.

This was just the most recent outing for what has become regular weekend cleanings. The group meets on the third Saturday of every month at Lincoln-Bassett Community School at 9 a.m., and then chooses from there a different section of Newhallville to tidy up.

“This neighborhood needs cleaning. It’s crazy!” exclaimed Mabery-Niblack’s daughter Kierra Guest, a recent graduate of Amity Middle School. “We’re not gonna make it past 2050 if this neighborhood looking like this.”

“I believe that the more we stay consistent, and show the neighborhood that we care … people will see what we’re doing, the work that we’re doing, and they

may potentially want to get involved,” she said.

Former Newhallville/Dixwell/Prospect Hill Alder, current state representative candidate, and city climate and sustainability director Steve Winter joined the group, stressing the importance of “being a good neighbor.” He gently picked up a Skittles candy container, inspected it, and said, “This is going into the recycling.”

It didn’t take long for the crew to spot litter on sidewalks, in puddles, and on grassy strips. Their efforts didn’t go unno-

ticed, invoking an occasional “thank you” from onlookers who watched the group from their porches or as they walked down the street.

“We need some grass,” Mabery-Niblack said, gesturing towards the curb strip, littered in leaves and a small pile of tattered clothes. “This is just dirt.”

Environmental stewardship has been a topic on Mabery-Niblack’s mind for a while now, as she’s been dreaming up an initiative called the “Newhallville Beautification Project.” She posed the idea as an effort to beautify the neighborhood by

prioritizing environmental design elements such as planting flowers and maintaining shrubbery.

“If people feel good about where they live at, they would want to take care of it,” she said.

“Yes,” Vereen agreed, nodding in agreement.

As Vereen and Newhallville/Dixwell/ Prospect Hill Alder Troy Streater made their way down Bassett Street picking up litter, they stopped to discuss setting up an impromptu community meeting.

For Vereen, the improvement of Newhallville isn’t a task she takes lightly. She created a vision board when she moved into the neighborhood. A Newhallville resident for 24 years, Vereen said she strives to prioritize “real community engagement” and “real community development.”

“I want us to be able to eat at the restaurants on Dixwell Avenue outside like they do in East Rock,” she said. “I want us to have community development in stores that is owned by people that live in this neighborhood, so that we could bring back the wealth and bring back the pride that was in this neighborhood when I first moved here.”

Vereen doesn’t know how long her duration as co-chair will be. She plans to retire

in seven years from her primary occupation, but she may leave her position as cochair sooner. Before then, Vereen wants to inspire a new generation to succeed her and encourage people to get involved.

Felder, who lives on Bassett Street, participated in Saturday’s cleanup for the first time. She said she is determined to “get more involved” within her neighborhood.

“I’ve lived here since I was like a year old, and lately, I’ve just been looking at it and I’m wondering about it, like, God, you know, there’s got to be more that we could do to help in the neighborhood to make it a better, more inviting place for people to come,” she said.

She said that Vereen’s idea of bringing back neighborhood vitality through entrepreneurship and local businesses resonated with her. She emphasized the importance of neighborhood connection to community health. Growing up in a time where “everybody knew everybody,” Felder said she would like to see a resurgence of the community events and social interaction that were lost as time passed. “And over the years, things did change. People changed, you know? Different people come in the neighborhood and some care, some don’t care … I would like to see it get back to how it used to be, headed in that direction where people are more cordial and more friendly.”

Dayne Bell Photo.

The new haven independent

Newhallville Gets Back Into Building

by LAURA GLESBY

A group of Newhallville residents has banded together to build affordable, owner-occupied housing and expand awareness of neighborhood resources by way of a revived community development corporation.

The Newhallville Community Services Development Corporation, a newly-registered nonprofit organization helmed by longtime neighborhood activist Jeanette Sykes, is hosting its first official community event at the end of the month: an “I Love Newhallville” symposium brimming with resources for neighborhood residents.

The symposium will feature information compiled by Development Corporation board members Chanelle Goldson and Linda Davis-Cannon on how to become a homeowner, and after buying a house, how to prevent foreclosure.

According to the organizers, the event will convene housing quality information from the city’s Livable City Initiative (LCI), motion detector and street lamp installment resources from Neighborhood Housing Services, information about applying for the state’s Baby Bonds program, Yale’s Pathology Department members able to conduct health screenings, and representatives from United Illuminating and the New Haven Police Department.

The symposium is slated to take place at Albertus Magnus College’s Behan Community Room on Saturday, June 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Development Corporation is a revival of a previous organization in the neighborhood and of a communitydriven development model that once thrived in many New Haven neighborhoods, with the Greater Dwight Development Corporation as one remaining example.

This iteration in particular grew out of a surge in neighborhood activism opposing a proposed methadone clinic in the area. Residents organized a series of protests, press conferences, petition signatures, and neighborhood meetings, expressing outrage about the lack of community outreach from the addiction treatment center in question, the APT Foundation.

During these gatherings, leaders of this effort solicited community input on what attendees hoped to see in the neighborhood, hearing back ideas for health-oriented supermarkets, youth centers, and a sense of safety outside. The group was ultimately successful in both spurring APT to move elsewhere and generating an ongoing list of neighbors’ dreams for Newhallville a list that became a guiding document for the Development Corporation.

So far, the corporation has received about $4,000 from fundraising with the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and $90,000 from the City of

New Haven, according to vice president and two-year neighborhood resident Sophie Kaplan.

For now, one of the corporation’s top priorities is creating homeownership opportunities in Newhallville. The group is looking at vacant or blighted properties in the neighborhood to potentially convert to owner-occupied housing in partnership with other organizations.

The group is embarking on this goal with an acute sense of Newhallville’s decades-long history as a neighborhood where Black homeownership thrived.

“Everyone owned their homes around here that’s just history,” said Sykes.

“Now we’re finding that a majority of [housing in the neighborhood] is renting out.”

Homeowners, Goldson said, not only have a chance to improve their own wealth they also have an incentive to invest in the neighborhood and remain present, on a long-term scale. “When you have landlords, they’re not there with eyes on the property,” said Goldson.

“That’s what we see: blighted properties, littering, loitering, things like that that have exacerbated over the years.”

Davis-Cannon hopes that promoting homeownership and more broadly, community participation among all residents can bring back a tighter-knit sense of community, in which neighbors

watched over each other’s children and ensured one another’s safety. “Everyone took care of their properties, took care of their street. That’s how we all became connected.”

As Sykes envisions it, a stronger sense of connection and investment in the neighborhood could ultimately lead to a safer community, too.

“We know if there’s activities around,” along with measures like well-lit streets, crime is less likely to occur, she said and neighbors may be more likely to reach out to one another and offer help.

The group, whose board also includes Serena Neal-Sanjurjo, Miriam James, Rhonda Nelson-Sheffield, Ngola Santos, and Brittany Tomling, aims not only to fund community-driven development, but also to spread awareness about neighbors’ rights and opportunities through events like this month’s symposium.

“We also want to build relationships, so people can feel comfortable” if they need to ask for help, Davis-Cannon said.

In the long term, the group envisions a broad scope of priorities including promoting job creation, expanding opportunities for elderly and young people, addressing health disparities, and perhaps even bringing in a grocery store.

“This is just the beginning,” Goldson said.

NORA GRACE-FLOOD FILE PHOTO

Jeanette Sykes, at the helm of new neighborhood dev corp.

The new haven independent

Bipartisan

Lamont: There’s No Equal Opportunity Without Equal Access

by Hudson Kamphausen

HARTFORD, CT – Gov. Ned Lamont

was joined Thursday by a bipartisan group of legislators and advocates at the Capitol for a ceremonial signing of two landmark bills for individuals with disabilities.

Lamont said that the new bills are all about increasing opportunities for people with disabilities, and evening out the availability of healthcare.

“As I think forward, I think about the fact that you don’t have equal opportunity unless you have equal access,” the governor said.

Lamont expressed disbelief that in some cases wheelchair users have had to wait 100 days in order to get their wheelchairs repaired, and said that fixing those issues will give wheelchair users more opportunities and equity.

“The world is getting more and more opportunity, I think, for each and every one of you,” he said.

Public Act 24-58, which sets requirements in state law to reduce wait times for wheelchair repairs, is the first of its kind in the nation.

Sen. Matt Lesser, a Democrat from Middletown who co-chairs the Human Services Committee, said there are three main components to the bill:

1 It will regulate the paperwork that in-

surance companies and providers use to make it easier to fill out;

2 It establishes a hotline for wheelchair users to call if they cannot get their wheelchair serviced in a timely manner, and;

3 It requires that wheelchair companies repair wheelchairs within 10 days after they receiving them.

Lesser said the last provision requiring

service within 10 days is the main provision of the bill.

Sen. Lisa Seminara, an Avon Republican and a ranking member on the Human Services Committee, said she was proud to be part of the effort to pass the legislation.

“It is unacceptable for someone who depends on wheelchair assistance to not

have the means to get around in their lives for an extended period of time,” Seminara said. “We are going to ensure for this population that their needs are addressed.”

The other bill, Public Act 24-113, sets new requirements aimed at improving accessibility standards in health care settings and the purchasing of medical equipment.

Department of Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said that while wheelchairs and their repairs are already covered under Medicaid, she wants to continue to make sure that coverage is protected.

“As we know, wheelchairs are not just a means of transportation. They are vital, life-enhancing devices that provide independence and mobility,” she said.

Jonathan Sigworth, a wheelchair user and advocate and the former chair of the Connecticut Wheelchair Reform Coalition, said that the new laws will make a considerable difference for individuals with wheelchairs, but that even more needs to be done to make healthcare more equitable.

“This is all of our lives at stake,” Sigworth said. “And so, we’re not done.”

Lamont agreed with that, and referenced the over $17 million in federal grant money that Connecticut recently received from the Department of Labor for the purpose of creating jobs. Lamont said that number will be focused on the thousands of high school students with disabilities that graduate every year. “I’m very pleased that we are just getting started,” he said.

Surrounded by advocates and a bipartisan group of legislators, Gov. Ned Lamont signs one of two bills to help the disability community on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the state Capitol in Hartford. Credit: Hudson Kamphausen / CTNewsJunkie

CTNewsJunkie

Osmanu Draws On “Lived Experience” For State Rep Campaign

by PAUL BASS

Abdul Osmanu was a 14-year-old high school sophomore when he first geeked out on the state Education Cost Sharing (ECS) formula.

Now he’s a 22-year-old candidate for state legislative office looking to apply what he learned to help public schools improve.

Osmanu, a Hamden Legislative Council member, is one of three candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for the open 94th General Assembly District seat in an Aug. 13 primary. The others are Steve Winter and Tarolyn Moore. Incumbent State Rep. Robyn Porter is retiring after 10 years in the post. The district includes southern Hamden and New Haven’s Newhallville and Prospect Hill neighborhoods.

Campaigning “on the doors,” Osmanu has heard most of all about the need for better schools and productive stuff for kids to do, Osmanu said during a conversation Tuesday on WNHH FM’s “Dateline New Haven” program.

A core challenge for improving schools involves increasing state funding through ECS, Osmanu said, an issue he learned about when he did a project about ECS for his sophomore AP U.S. Government

At Third Space, Punq Noire Grows Its Voice

inspired by his lived experiences and various elements of life. In one piece, he spoke of love and the way it changes a person. In in another, he told a story of the school-to-prison pipeline. In it, he commented on street violence and its relationship to growing up in a disadvantaged community.

He later said that he started writing poetry in first grade because he “wasn’t a good writer.” A teacher who encouraged him changed that.

“One thing I learned is that everybody has a piece of your story, but not the whole thing,” he said. “It feels better to tell your own story than allow other people to tell it for you.”

He recalled being interested in poetry at an early age from reading works by Robert Frost, John Steinbeck, and Langston Hughes—but it wasn’t until he was introduced to spoken word after high school that he realized he could tell stories with the art.

Shay Alyse, another singer-songwriter, brought both poetry and bittersweet tunes to the space for a soulful vibe. Performing a cappella on pieces such as her song “Release,” she admitted that she wanted attendees to hear her lyrics without music to encourage them to digest the meaning behind them.

The style of her work is inspired by people’s reactions to what she puts forth,

she said. She observes the way others move and respond, taking notice of both the positive and not-so-positive reactions she may spark. Her music aligns closely with soul and R&B, but like others that performed, she believes it transcends any one specific genre.

Shay Alyse also shared what she calls “mind letters,” a poetry form unique to her, inspired by her songwriting.

“It’s just me speaking from the inside, sometimes the outside, words I don’t get to say,” she said.

The open mic nights mark an expansion of Ellis’ work in New Haven. Two years ago, Punq Noire began in the summer of 2022 as a free 18-and-over festival centering and celebrating queer and transgender People of Color in punk and alternative subcultures.

“I define ‘punk’ as anyone who uses their art to motivate change,” Ellis said. While that continues to be their focus, they have since branched out to other punk-centered community events, including fundraisers, dance parties, and now, open mics.

Their next performance and partnership, at New Haven's now-annual Seeing Sounds Fest, will take place on July 6 at Edgewood Skatepark. This event will feature vendors and live music on two stages from both local and traveling artists.

class at Hamden High School. His takeaway from the project at the time?

“There is a mandated amount of money that the state is supposed to give us by their own formula that they don’t always actually match up to giving us in full and total.” That “hampers” the ability of the school system to “offer us certain programs.”

If elected, Osmanu vows to push for increased funding through ECS in part by joining other Democrats calling for revisiting the state’s “volatility cap.”

That’s a different formula, one that limits how much of a certain year’s tax receipts the state can spend. The cap, the product of a bipartisan 2017 legislative deal, has improved state finances by filling the rainy day fund and paying down debt. “I am not by any means saying we should spend down all the surplus” but rather that the state should “adjust fiscal guard rails” based on the better-than-expected revenues that have come in since the formula was established, Osmanu said.

Even if such a revisiting takes place next session (the governor opposes it), legislators will still need to make painful choices between which pressing needs to fund. Osmanu said he would put housing and education — both pre-K-12 and col-

lege-level — at the top of his priority list. On housing he’d support proposals discussed in previous sessions to stabilize rents and expand just-cause eviction protections to renters.

Osmanu said he takes those stands out of personal experience, one reason he argues that people should vote for him.

For instance, his family faced foreclosure when he was 8 years old. In the end, help from Yale Law School’s housing clinic helped them remain in their home. Similarly, he temporarily lost his health insurance last year when a short-term job (managing Liam Brennan’s New Haven Democratic mayoral campaign) increased his income.

“I actually have some of the lived experience that we need” to tackle issues at the Capitol, Osmanu said. He called himself “someone who’s going to go up and fight, similar to how Rep. Porter did. I’m someone who’s seen what housing insecurity looks like.”

The Democratic Socialists of America and the Working Families Party have endorsed Osmanu’s campaign. He and fellow DSA- and WFP-endorsed state representative candidate from Hamden, Laurie Sweet, are holding a campaign canvassing kick-off rally at Villano Park this Saturday starting at noon.

DEEP Issues RFP for Large-Scale Electricity Storage

by Hudson Kamphausen

In addition, Third Space is proud to open its space to other creatives and artists. For instance, the venue hosts an “Artist of the Month” series to help local artists circulate their pieces.

“We open up our walls to display and sell their work … and we give them the opportunity to host an event at no charge,” he said. And if the artist does donate work to Third Space, they use them as prizes in giveaways and game tournaments.

“Some people have everything they need [to work] except the space to do it, so we want to be able to genuinely provide a space to do it.”

Third Space does all that and more. The venue hosted one of its pop-up video game spaces at “Nerdvana” Family Fun Day last weekend at New England Brewing Company, and a "Phase 10" card tournament that same evening at Third Space. The next big event will be a Sipn-Paint on Sunday June 30,; Brown is also are planning a celebration for Third Space’s One-Year Anniversary on July 1.

Punq Noire and Third Space will host “Open Stage Night” every third Thursday of each month from 6 p.m. -9 p.m. at 410 Blake St.Street. Entry is $10$, but the first few arrivals will get the chance to earn back some cash with a short game of trivia before the show starts.

HARTFORD, CT – As Connecticut continues to prioritize clean energy solutions, developers have been invited to submit proposals for clean, cost-effective electricity storage.

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) released a request for proposals (RFP) in late April, with several private developers and groups submitting plans over the last few weeks.

The list of potential developers includes:

• Rhynland Energy (multiple projects);

• Ormat Nevada;

• Novis Renewables;

• Nexamp Energy (multiple projects);

• New Leaf;

• Lightshift;

• Kinsley Group & Triad Advanced Energy Development LLC (multiple projects), and;

• Key Capture Energy (multiple projects).

One of the main issues that legislators tried to address during this year’s short session was the future of clean energy in the state, and attempting to move Connecticut toward a zero-carbon future.

The new request comes as the result of legislation passed in 2021, and asks developers to outline whether their projects support the interconnection of environmentally beneficial projects such as EV charging facilities – largely in disadvantaged communities – as well as other resources.

Any agreement resulting from the RFP process is also subject to federal and Con-

necticut laws and regulatory approvals, according to the RFP. The RFP also says that developers are responsible for obtaining all necessary federal, state, or local regulatory approvals, as applicable to their project.

The proposal from one of the larger developers, Ormat Nevada, outlines some of the developer’s promises. The Ormat project, called “Silk City,” will store about 100 MWac (aka mega watts alternating current) of renewable solar energy for energy consumers in the state.

Other proposals from developers like Rhynland Energy – which focuses on battery energy storage – and Nexamp – another large, Boston-based energy provider – include several projects for different locations in Connecticut. Nexamp’s proposal for an energy storage facility in Stafford Springs would store 5,000 kW of solar energy.

The electricity storage RFP comes as the state continues efforts to expand the offshore wind industry. The state is currently considering bids from Ørsted, Avangrid, and South Coast Wind, which were submitted in March, for a new offshore wind farm.

The proposal evaluation team for the storage RFP will include representatives from DEEP, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, the Office of Consumer Counsel, United Illuminating, and Eversource. Consultants have also been hired to take part in the evaluation if the proposals.

HARRY DROZ PHOTO Osmanu, at right, with political mentor Justin Farmer at WNHH FM.

The new haven independent

OP-ED: HED: The Good News In 2024: Poor People Are the New Swing Vote

By William J. Barber, II

If you’re an ordinary American who goes to work to pay the bills or takes care of a loved one most days, it’s easy to feel down when you see the headlines about the 2024 election. Donald J. Trump has been convicted of 34 felonies for falsifying business records to cover up hush money he paid to bury an alleged affair with a porn star during the 2016 campaign, and the Republican Party continues to think he’s their best candidate. At the same time, President Biden is struggling to hold together his Democratic base as images of devastation in Gaza continue to dominate the news. Stories of good news in politics seem few and far between. But as a preacher, I learned a long time ago that you don’t get to the good news by looking away from problems; the good news is most often found right amid trouble. Yes, politics is a mess in 2024. But, at the same time, several popular movements of everyday people struggling for economic justice have emerged that have the potential to reshape our politics. Against the backdrop of decades of rising inequality, low-wage worker movements have made huge strides since the pandemic, insisting that living wages are a moral issue for “essential workers” and seeing the largest increase in real wages in decades. Young people who’ve watched education and healthcare costs soar have come together to form effective coalitions for debt relief and won billions in loan forgiveness. Leveraging worker power, unions have waged effective strikes and negotiated new contracts while expanding to include new workers, especially in the South. Though they’re rarely in the headlines, these movements made up of millions of low-income workers have the

to re-frame political debates for people who are weary of the status quo. The good news in 2024 is that poor and working people are the new swing vote in US politics.

A report from Lake Research Partners demonstrates just how powerful this untapped coalition of low-income voters could be. Looking back at the past three Presidential elections, they found that in the seven states that will likely decide the 2024 election—Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, and Pennsylvania—low-income voter participation was an average of 12 percentage points lower than that of their higher-income voters. Using past

averages to project 2024 turnout, this study measured the difference between the margin of victory in the last Trump/ Biden matchup and the number of eligible low-income voters who are likely not to vote. In Georgia, for example, Biden won by almost 12,000 votes in 2020. In North Carolina, he lost by 74,000. But in both states, more than a million eligible lowincome voters will likely not vote in 2024 if past trends continue. That’s a huge potential swing vote, and the proportions are similar across the seven swing states in the study.

Since the 2024 Presidential race will likely be a rematch of 2020, this study used exit poll data from 2020 to ask who

unlikely low-income voters would vote for if they did turn out in 2024. Of the 1.3 million likely nonvoters in Georgia, 746,000 would likely be Biden voters. Of the 1.1 million in North Carolina, some 594,000 would likely go for Biden. In short, Biden and other Democrats have a huge advantage among this demographic when they are able and willing to vote.

The overwhelming takeaway of this study is that a relatively small increase in low-income voter turnout in any of these seven states would dramatically increase Biden’s chances of winning a second term in the White House. The millions of lowincome people who’ve risen as leaders in movements for economic justice over the

past few years have the power to decide the outcome of the 2024 election. Celinda Lake and her research partners are consultants for the Biden campaign, and there is a focus on the potential for his candidacy in 2024, but the potential power of this swing vote is much larger than one election or even one political party. Both Democrats and Republicans have ignored low-income voters for decades precisely because they are unlikely voters. But when the nonpartisan Poor People’s Campaign, which I serve as a co-chair, surveyed poor people to ask why they don’t vote, the number one reason they gave was, “No one speaks to us.” This is why our campaign has committed to holding a Mass Poor People’s and Low-Wage Worker’s Assembly in Washington, DC, on June 29th. We are bringing the everyday people who’ve demanded better wages from their bosses to Washington and insist that Republicans, Democrats, and Independents make clear what they will do to address the needs of 135 million Americans who are living on the edge in the richest nation in the history of the world. And we are committing to go home to our communities and reach 15 million of the unlikely low-income voters with the message that they have power in 2024. If they show up, especially in seven key states, their votes will decide the outcome in 2024. When they do, they will be able to help shape the reconstruction of an American democracy that works for all of us.

William J. Barber, II is President of Repairers of the Breach and author of the new White Poverty: How Exposing Myths About Race and Class Can Reconstruct American Democracy. #2024Election

NNPA Annual Convention Ignites with Powerful Civil Rights Exhibit at Baltimore City Hall

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire @StacyBrownMedia

In a stirring commencement to its annual convention, officials from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) were feted during the unveiling of the “Marylanders Cry Freedom, Civil Rights at Home and Abroad” exhibit at Baltimore City Hall.

This unveiling of the touching exhibit included remarks by Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, Democratic Maryland Rep. Kweisi Mfume, NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., National Chairman Bobby Henry, AFRO Publisher Dr. Toni Draper, and other dignitaries. The exhibit marked the 40th anniversary of Maryland’s groundbreaking divestment from South Africa’s apartheid regime in 1984, a pioneering act of defiance that set a powerful precedent for other states.

The NNPA, representing over 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies, embodies the 197-year-old leg-

acy of the Black Press of America while the exhibit stands as a testament to the Black Press’s unwavering activism and heroic efforts in championing civil rights both domestically and internationally.

Visitors to the exhibit were visibly moved as it evoked profound reflections on the struggle and progress of civil rights. Scott poignantly captured the sentiment, stating, “Because of their perseverance and unwillingness to back down, we’re here today. I am here today, and you are here today, able to hold power in these halls that used to serve lawsuits to prevent those who look like us from achieving our excellence.” His words underscored the transformation from historical injustice to current empowerment within the same walls of City Hall.

Highlighting Baltimore’s critical role in the anti-apartheid movement, Congressman Kweisi Mfume, who fought alongside Nelson Mandela, asserted, “Don’t think that Baltimore did not play a role. All those many years of people showing up and forcCon’t on page 19

Photo Caption: William J Barber II Poor People Campaign potential

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., NNPA Senior National Correspondent Stacy M. Brown, and NNPA Chair Bobby Henry attend the unveiling of the exhibit, “Marylanders Cry Freedom, Civil Rights at Home and Abroad.” The event served as a quasi kick-off to the NNPA’s 2024 annual convention in Charm City/Mark Mahoney, Dream In Color

July 02, 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.

‘Black Reel Awards’ (Outstanding Actress

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.

wood Critics Association TV Awards’ (Best Actress in a Limited Series, Anthropology Series or Television Movie), the ‘Gotham Awards’ (Outstanding Performance in New

tion TV Awards’ (TV Breakout Star), and the ‘Critics Choice Television Awards’ (Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Movie), all for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in

She won the ‘TV Breakout Star’ award from the Hollywood Critics Association TV and won the ‘Outstanding Performance in New Series’ award from the Gotham

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.’

In 2022, Mbedu was nominated for the ‘Independent Spirit Awards (Best Female Performance in a New Scripted Series), for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in the 2021 television 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…”

Thinking of Black Market Shopping for Ozempic? Think Again by Whitney Johns

By BlackDoctor.org

‘Wonder drug’ Ozempic has swept the globe as the new quick fix for weight loss. Everybody and their auntie wants to get their hands on it. The problem is, that supply is struggling to keep up with demand. Solution? Just go to the black market. Online pharmacy shopping for semaglutide injections is on the rise. But is purchasing bootleg versions of the Ozempic worth risking your health in the process?

Beware of online pharmacies

Not only are semaglutide injections harder to come by at your local pharmacy, but they are also very expensive. A monthly prescription of Ozempic costs about $1000 without insurance. Many turn to alternative means to find the drug because of this, and there are many alternatives from which to choose, including online pharmacies.

Online pharmacies produce and sell compounded versions of Ozempic injections, marketed as compounded semaglutide. Priced nearly half as much as name-brand semaglutide, compounded versions of the drug are a viable option for the uninsured. But buyer beware –this cost-effective option has caveats one must consider.

1. “Compounded” doesn’t mean “generic”. Compounded semaglutide is NOT a generic version of Ozempic that your physician would prescribe for you. In fact, a generic version of Ozempic does not currently exist.

Many compounded semaglutide injections are made with the salt forms of the drug, not the full drug itself. So while the online “Ozempic” may help you lose weight or control diabetes, you could be negatively affecting other body systems in the process.

2. Some online pharmacies aren’t legit. In fact, less than five percent of them are, according to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Not only are so few online pharmacies safe, the NABP can hardly keep up with reporting and re-

moving the bad ones. Is your health really worth risking falling into the online pharmacy trap to save a few dollars?

3. The drug may not contain semaglutide at all.

Some online pharmacies use salt forms of semaglutide, and some use no semaglutide at all. Online pharmacies selling compounded semaglutide are not regulated by the FDA and fly under their radar when obtaining “semaglutide” for prescribed injections. How can you tell if your online semaglutide prescription actually contains semaglutide? Technically, you can’t.

4. It’s all about the money.

Making money is the bottom line for most businesses, and alternative semaglutide manufacturers and prescribers are no different. Numerous reports show patients with adverse reactions and lifethreatening side effects of counterfeit semaglutide use, like gastrointestinal issues, seizures, and even death.

Pride and greed may come before a fall, but while these online pharmacies are still in business, do you really want to put your health in greed’s hands?

RELATED: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Ozempic! 3 Natural Foods That Mimic The Effects Of Weight Loss Injections Safety when buying semaglutide online Be sure to do your due diligence if you decide to buy semaglutide injections online.

1. Check the pharmacy’s state license.

Test the pharmacy’s validity through online databases, such as

the FDA and NABP. If you see something that doesn’t look kosher, report the pharmacy to the FDA.

2. Beware of “Compounded Ozempic” advertisements.

Remember, there’s no such thing as generic Ozempic on the market, and compound drug pharmacies are not allowed to use drug name brands for their products. So if you see a semaglutide drug online publicized as compounded Ozempic, don’t buy it!

3. Tell your doctor if you’re using compounded semaglutide.

While you may be tempted to keep your online prescription semaglutide use from your primary physician, DON’T! Inform your physician of your compound semaglutide use so that they know how to treat you should you have adverse reactions from the drug or its combination with any legitimate prescription you currently take.

4. Just don’t buy it!

If Ozempic or alternative name-brand semaglutide injections are too expensive, work with your primary physician for an alternative to the drug. What sounds too good to be true usually is, and this holds true with alternative prescriptions of semaglutide. Don’t be their guinea pig. Medication expense is a valid issue in this economy, especially in our community. But honestly speaking, taking a monetarily-motivated, unregulated drug with largely unknown substances is a risk no one should take. “Bootleg” Ozempic may work for some, but how do you know you will escape unscathed?

Black Americans Report Systemic Barriers and Institutional Harm in New Pew Survey

Conducted from September 12 to 24, 2023, the survey of 4,736 Black adults sheds light on the extent of these beliefs and their roots in personal experiences of racial discrimination.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire @StacyBrownMedia

A recent study by the Pew Research Center reveals deep-seated mistrust among Black Americans toward U.S. institutions, highlighting concerns that these institutions intentionally or negligently harm Black people. Conducted from September 12 to 24, 2023, the survey of 4,736 Black adults sheds light on the extent of these beliefs and their roots in personal experiences of racial discrimination.

The findings are striking: 76% of Black adults believe Black public officials are discredited more frequently than their white counterparts. Similarly, 76% feel that the police do little to stop guns and drugs from flooding Black communities, and 74% think Black people are more likely to be incarcerated because prisons profit from their imprisonment. Additionally, 67% say businesses target Black people with luxury product marketing to push them into debt.

Health care and government policies are also viewed with deep suspicion. About 55% of Black adults believe that nonconsensual medical experiments, similar to the infamous Tuskegee study, are happening today. Another 55% think the government encourages single motherhood to eliminate Black men from families. Moreover, 51% suspect the government promotes birth control and abortion to reduce the Black population.

Personal experiences of racial discrimination significantly influence these beliefs.

A substantial 75% of Black adults report experiencing racial discrimination, with 13% facing it regularly and 62% from time to time. These experiences reinforce the perception that the system is designed to thwart their success, making Black people feel they must work harder to achieve their goals.

The survey shows that the belief in institutional harm is pervasive across different demographics within the Black community. For instance, 74% of Black adults see the prison system as designed to hold

them back, a sentiment echoed by 70% regarding the judicial process and 68% about policing. Those who have faced racial discrimination are particularly likely to hold these views.

Ethnicity within the Black community also affects perceptions. While 75% of non-Hispanic and 72% of multiracial Black adults see the prison system as oppressive, only 60% of Hispanic Black

adults agree. Additionally, 67% of Black Americans believe the political system is designed to hold them back, with higher agreement among those who have experienced discrimination.

Economic perceptions are similarly grim, with 65% saying the U.S. financial system is designed to hold Black people back, either significantly or somewhat. Media representation also draws criticism; 88% of Black Americans frequently encounter inaccurate news about Black people, prompting many to fact-check information themselves.

The survey’s findings are mirrored in focus group discussions, where participants voiced their frustrations and fears.

One participant in her early 50s stated, “I believe there are strategic works behind the scenes that are being done to sabotage a Black person’s effort. You could be on the road to success with nothing stopping you. But then, all it takes is one incident that was planned and plotted against you to destroy your life.” Another young adult Con’t on page 15

Harm in New Pew Survey

in her late 20s said, “As Black people, we are always fighting some type of fight. We always get to some height of success. And then there’s always something that takes us down.”

Participants also highlighted the subtle yet pervasive nature of institutionalized barriers. A high-income group participant in his late 30s remarked, “There’s institutionalized stuff that is invisible. There are things like that which I think are purposely built into society or industries to keep certain numbers down because of access to financial gain.”

Reflecting on the systemic nature of these barriers, a Republican group participant in his late 30s said, “This is a capitalistic society. And I feel as though Black men just have to be the ones at the bottom in order for this system to succeed. We can even go back to Black Wall Street, where we were starting to have a little bit of success, and then that was taken down by the powers that be.”

The Pew study underscores the pervasive mistrust Black Americans have toward U.S. institutions, a mistrust rooted in both historical and ongoing experiences of racial discrimination. One participant poignantly summarized, “We always get to some height of success, and then there’s always something that takes us down.”

How this doctor invented the Band-Aid for nosebleed emergencies: ‘We didn’t have anything to give patients’

by Abu Mubarik, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne founded a medical device called NasaClip after her residency in Washington, D.C. in 2015. Clayborne was surprised to find a growing number of people coming to the emergency room (ER) with nosebleeds during her residency as medical professionals consider that a “lower acuity issue”, she told Afrotech.

In her quest to find ways to help people with the medical condition, she realized technology could bridge the gap. This led her to create NasaClip in 2015 after her residency. She launched to market its prototype, known as the Band-Aid for nosebleeds, in subsequent years.

“The problem was we didn’t have anything to give patients in the waiting room… something to stop their nose bleeding,” Clayborne said during an interview with Afrotech. “So, I was always taping together tongue depressors to make a clip. And I realized like, ‘Why am I doing this? Why do I have to maneuver together some contraption to stop a nosebleed? There should be a device that helps people treat nosebleeds and probably could avoid the ER visit altogether if they had this tool.’ And that is where the idea was born when I was a resident and

thinking about it.”

Clayborne embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with no business background. While developing her medical device, she kept the process on hold until after the pandemic when she participated in the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO), a venture fund for early-stage businesses in Maryland.

Clayborne’s participation in TEDCO helped her to obtain capital to create a prototype. “[TEDCO] gave me not only my first capital but also some of the support and advisors I would need to understand how to build a team, fundraise, and take the next steps towards making this a product that could reach market, and it was scary,” she said. “It was scary for me

to let go of my very traditional academic emergency medicine path. Those of us who went into medicine spent a long time going to school and training to be a practicing clinician. And for me, fortunately, because I’m an ER doc and we work shifts, I still can practice, and it keeps me grounded and also keeps me aware of problems related to nosebleeds and other issues. So, I still practice and I love that I get to do that.”

The medical officer is now working assiduously to get her products to people in urgent cares, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and industries, such as sports medicine, aviation, and the cruise industry. She is also focused on developing a reusable version of the NasaClip, which will be available on Amazon later this year. So far, NasaClip has raised $3.5 million, and 70% of the company’s funding has come from Black angel investors. Clayborne grew up in Denver. A Duke University undergraduate, she designed her own Medical Ethics and Religion major. Before going to medical school, she completed a two-year research fellowship at National Institutes of Health in the Social and Behavioral Research Branch of the National Human Genome Research Institute with a research focus on race, ethnicity and genetics, according to her bio.

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

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

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

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

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

Photo Credit: Nasaclip via Afro Tech

LGBTQIA+ Young People Face Higher Mental Health Risks (Here’s 6 Ways to Support Them)

by Keyaira Boone, BlackHealthMatters.com

A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2023 showed “more than half (52%) of LGBQ+ students recently experienced poor mental health and, concerningly, that more than 1 in 5 (22%) attempted suicide in the past year.” These findings were consistent across race and ethnicity. The report found “high and worsening levels of persistent sadness or hopelessness across all racial and ethnic groups, and that reported suicide attempts increased among Black youth and White youth.”

A 2023 study from the Journal of the American Medical Association confirmed that intersectionality also impacts these risks. It stated that “The combination of social identities, such as being Black and not having a college degree or being Latino and identifying as a sexual and gender minority individual, is associated with multiple layers of health-related disadvantage.”

These young people face challenges at every turn that require proper support, including “unique social stressors, including victimization and discrimination, as a result of their minority position.” Approaching these young people with care and consideration can leave them feeling more supported. We asked Live Out Loud Founder and Executive Director Leo Preziosi, Jr. for tips on supporting the

LGBTQIA+ young people in your life.

Six Key Ways To Support The LGBTQIA+ Youth in Your Life

Educate Yourself On Your Own

Don’t expect the LGBTQIA+ children in your life to constantly be translating their experience to you. Take the time to try to learn as much as you can about what they are up against so that you can be a better-informed listener. You are responsible for working to obtain the language and tools needed to communicate with them. “It’s all about approaching communication and listening without judgment,” said Preziosi Jr. “It’s not the child’s job to educate. The parents or the teachers, and that happens. But it’s not their job.”

Find Community

There are likely other adults going on the journey you are. Connect with them away from the littles in your life so they don’t feel any undue pressure from your efforts. Look into resources like PFLAG and Okay, My Kid Is Gay. Family podcasts and books like The Conscious Parent are helpful as well.

Surround Them With Role Models

Integrate the stories of LGBTQ persons into what you’re teaching your child so they see themselves. Representation matters in all aspects of life. “One of the things that we do when we go into schools, we

Questions about your bill?

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

By appointment, patients can speak one-on-one with a financial counselor during regular business hours. For your convenience, extended hours are available in-person at Yale New Haven Hospital once a month.

Date: Monday, July 15, 2024

Time: 5 - 7 pm

Location: Children’s Hospital, 1 Park St., 1st Floor, Admitting Parking available (handicapped accessible)

An appointment is necessary. Please call 855-547-4584

In light of COVID-19, patients may call 855-547-4584 any time during regular weekday hours to speak with a counselor on the phone.

Spanish-speaking counselors available.

bring in LGBT role models to talk to students to really talk to students about their Journey about what it was like for them in school and how they, you know, came to understand who they were and accept who they were,” said Preziosi, Jr.

Meet Them Where They Are

Lean into opportunities to learn about their interests, no matter what they are. “It’s really getting to know your child and getting to know their interests, spending time with your child, and having conversations with your child,” said Preziosi, Jr. This helps develop a safe space for them to be themselves at home.

Give

Them Space To Come To You

Don’t be so excited to flaunt your parenting skills and emotional intelligence that you don’t leave room for the children in your life to communicate what they feel. “It has to be very organic. It has to be very, very natural,” Preziosi Jr. advised. “It’s really up to the child to start that type of conversation. You know, if you think your son or daughter is gay, You know, my advice is don’t approach it. Let them come to you; this is what we hear from our students,” he continued. “Don’t force it. Let it evolve naturally.”

Consider Seeking Another Voice

“Sometimes it’s great to bring someone else into the picture,” explained Preziosi,

Con’t on page 19

helping you come back home

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

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

Union Chiefs:

a capital budget from the city for proper maintenance?” she asked. “Why is it that when they were built there wasn’t a plan in place to make sure they were maintained?”

Williams agreed, adding that the district must work toward more responsible maintenance plans that prioritizes building upkeep for the future. She suggested that “if we use people that are vested in New Haven and know this is their town and they want what’s best for children and community instead of just always going with the lowest bidder, things would be different.” Keep Cuts Away From Kids

So. If the district shouldn’t layoff staff to close the $12 million budget deficit, where should it look to save money?

Williams said the attorneys budget should be cut and better maximized by avoiding arbitration. She also suggested the district make better use of its custodial staff rather than outsourcing such work. And she said it should reconsider the need for central office staff positions that were vacant for long periods in the past, like chief of staff and communications director, and consider buying transportation vehicles and/or offer incentives to students to arrive to school by biking, walking, or taking public transit.

“A rehaul on everything else is the answer because the students need the staff and the staff need the students,” she said. Blatteau praised the district for the way it’s gone about “right-sizing” classrooms so far. The teachers union helped the district to do this work through analysis of all schools’ enrollment and staff to learn what schools were staff heavy and which were not to equally distribute educators at all school buildings.

That process of “let’s make sure all schools have what they need” should be replicated, Blatteau said, with a close analysis of central office staff next. The district should look at what staff are doing and what impact they’re having on priority areas for NHPS.

She also suggested the district take a close look at how overtime is used. “Why do we continue to have to rely on overtime?” she asked.

She added that teachers and paras don’t get paid overtime for grading papers after school, writing college recommendations, or chaperoning overnight field trips.

During a recent Finance and Operations Committee meeting, district leaders explained that the district is doing an analysis of its software subscriptions to see what is redundant or underutilized. Blatteau applauded that work. She suggested it look at redundancy in all outside contracts like law firms and data management systems.

She said the district should find out from families directly about whether or not they prefer access to software to track math levels or after school programs and field trip for their kids.

Taking a closer look at what spending the district is doing to make adults’ jobs easier, Blatteau said, is far less important than investments in what’s developmentally necessary for the district’s students.

Always “One More Thing”

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

Will be Accepting Applications

How to apply

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

What you will submit with your Application

1) Proof of Age

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

2) Proof of Address

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

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

3) Proof of Income

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

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

•Notarized Statement indicating Parent is unemployed

• Additional forms may be requested

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

• CT Department of Education Early Childhood Health Assessment Record

• Anemia and lead level test results

•TB assessment

• Immunizations records

• Seasonal flu vaccination

• Health insurance card

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

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.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman Battles for Political Survival Amidst Contentious Primary in New York’s 16th District

By Stacy M. Brown

Newswire

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) is fighting to retain his seat in New York’s 16th Congressional District in a high-stakes and fiercely contested primary. Bowman, known as the “Hip-Hop Congressman,” recently spoke with the Black Press of America’s “Let It Be Known” digital news show, highlighting the critical issues at the heart of his campaign and the unprecedented financial backing his opponent has received. Bowman, a fervent progressive, is competing against George Latimer, a centrist, in a race that has seen significant outside spending and harsh personal attacks. Latimer has received significant financial support from AIPAC, which has invested over $14 million in the race, thanks to the backing of well-known individuals like Hillary Clinton. This has made the primary one of the most expensive House primaries in U.S. history, with total spending exceeding $23 million.

During the interview, Bowman expressed deep concern over the influence of big money in politics. “We cannot have a democracy if we allow big money to control

our politics and to allow big money and billionaires to buy our elections,” Bowman stated. He accused right-wing billionaires and groups like AIPAC of trying to install a more conservative candidate who would serve their interests. “They are trying to strip the power of the people away through real propaganda that misrepresents my record.”

The primary has emerged as a critical litmus test for the Democratic Party’s stance on Israel. Unlike other races focused on economic issues or support for President Biden, this contest has centered on the Middle East conflict. Following Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in nearly 1,000 Israeli civilian deaths, Israel’s military response has led to tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties. This has exacerbated the divide within the Democratic Party between staunchly pro-Israel members and those critical of the civilian toll in Gaza.

Bowman condemned the Hamas attacks as war crimes but also criticized Israel’s prolonged bombardment of Gaza. “We need a pathway to peace that doesn’t include the killing of babies, women, and children,” he said. He emphasized that most Americans

support a permanent ceasefire, including the release of hostages, and criticized mainstream media for not adequately addressing these views.

Latimer’s record as Westchester County Executive has been scrutinized, particu-

larly his handling of a federal mandate to desegregate the county. Despite campaigning as an advocate for affordable housing, Latimer has woefully failed to meet the requirements of a 2009 consent decree, which ordered the county to build at least 750 affordable housing units and change restrictive zoning laws. Critics argue that Latimer’s administration made little progress, with only 723 units built and several municipalities maintaining exclusionary zoning practices.

Bowman highlighted Latimer’s history of inaction, stating, “He had fought against desegregation since the 90s when he was a county executive,” the congressman asserted. “Even though the federal government demanded that Westchester do more, he has slow-walked that call to action and won’t hold accountable the NIMBY community. Places like Scarsdale and Rye, where he lives, are the people who fund his campaign, and these are the people he works for.”

Latimer’s reluctance to take legal action against municipalities resisting desegregation efforts and his dependence on campaign contributions from affluent, predominantly white communities have been

significant points of contention. These issues have largely escaped notice in mainstream media coverage, which has focused more on the personal attacks and financial aspects of the race than the underlying policy failures and implications for racial equity.

Bowman’s grassroots campaign contrasts sharply with Latimer’s corporate-funded bid. “For us, it’s always been about grassroots,” Bowman said. “We are knocking on doors, making phone calls, and doing everything we can to connect with voters so they don’t believe the propaganda that racist billionaires are pushing.”

He also criticized the mainstream media’s role in perpetuating pay-to-play politics. “If mainstream media began to criticize payto-play politics, they wouldn’t have organizations like AIPAC running ads on their platforms,” Bowman argued. “It’s a plague of plantation politics, where working-class people, particularly of color, remain at the bottom.”

Bowman concluded with a strong message to voters: “We have to push back against the billionaires trying to buy our democracy. Vote for a representative who fights for the people, not the powerful.”

Rep. Jamaal Bowman

ing the issue caused other cities to force the issue.”

His declaration affirmed the city’s significant contributions to global civil rights advancements.

The exhibit not only covers the struggle against apartheid but also delves into the eras of Jim Crow and other monumental civil rights movements in America. It vividly narrates the Black Press’s instrumental role in advocating for justice, showcasing the adversities and victories African Americans face.

“Marylanders Cry Freedom serves as a profound tribute to this pivotal moment in our state’s history, celebrating the unwavering determination of the people of Maryland to fight discrimination and injustice,” said Dr. Jean Bailey, project director and Chair of the Maryland/KwaZulu–Natal (South Africa) Sister State Committee. “It truly is a testament to the long-standing legacy of Marylanders as advocates for civil rights and social change.”

Chavis, a former political prisoner as part of the Wilmington Ten in the 1970s, delivered a passionate commentary on the state of Black America and Africa. Drawing from his personal experiences, he underscored the importance of continued support for the Black Press and political engagement, making a direct appeal for backing President Joe Biden. His words, rooted in his own journey, resonated with the audience, emphasizing the crucial nature of unity in the upcoming elections.

Henry, the NNPA chair, also inspired attendees, emphasizing the strength found in collective action. “Together, each accomplishes much more,” he stated, reminding all the power of solidarity in the ongoing fight for civil rights.

The “Marylanders Cry Freedom” exhibit will be open to the public at Baltimore City Hall until August 31st. As the NNPA convention continues, this exhibit stands as a potent educational tool and a profound reminder of the Black Press’s enduring legacy. It serves to inspire future generations to continue the fight for justice and equality, as embodied in Henry’s exhortation: “Together, each accomplishes much more.”

Con;t from page 16

Young People Face Higher Mental Health

Jr. “That could be, um, a relative who could be a friend of the family and might be LGBT or an ally.” “A child speaking to their parents may not be the first step.” It’s important to depersonalize their choice to discuss their feelings with others. The goal is to prioritize your child’s mental health and emotional safety, not your feelings. De-center yourself and focus on their experience.

“Give your child some space because they need to understand it for themselves and accept themselves, and they may do that through friends. They may do that through a counselor at school, they may do that through their GSA Club,” he added.

“Sometimes it’s just harder to have that conversation with your parents or siblings first.”

Escuelas Públicas de New Haven uelas Ha

ESTAREMOS

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

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

Dr. Mayo Early Childhood School

Fair Haven School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

Hill Central School

John Martinez Sea & Sky STEM School

Lincoln Bassett Community School

Truman School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

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

Augusta Lewis Troup School

Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration

East Rock Community School

Hill Central School

Nathan Hale School

Con lugares comunitarios adicionales que tambien participan en el programa

dudas o preguntas

Para mas informacion contactar:

P a m e l a N g

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

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

La oficina de Registracion de Infancia Temprana esta ubicada

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

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

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

Qué incluir en su inscripción:

1) Prueba de edad

• Certificado de nacimiento / Pasaporte del niño/a O

• Documentos legales de custodia / tutela

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

3) Demostración de ingresos

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

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

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

4) Físico (dentro del último año)

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

• Resultados de exámenes de anemia y plomo

• Evaluación TB

• Registros de inmunizaciones

• Vacunación de la gripe de estación

•Tarjeta de seguro de salud

5) Examen dental

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

Deion Sanders’ Update on His Amputation: “I’m Fighting Back!”

by De'Laney Rowland, BlackDoctor.org

NFL Hall-of-Famer and Colorado Football coach Deion Sanders didn’t hesitate to shock both the show’s hosts and viewers by displaying his dismembered foot, an action that left Good Morning America’s Michael Strahan visibly startled. During the segment, Strahan expressed the collective sentiment of the morning audience, exclaiming, “Oh, let’s not do that! This is morning TV! People are eating breakfast, Deion, you can’t do that!” Sanders, however, seemed unfazed by the timing or the setting, cheekily responding, “You mean this, with eight toes?” as he rolled up his pants to reveal his amputated foot.

Sanders’ casual and confident demeanor underscored his pride and resilience. “I’m proud of my amputation,” he declared, emphasizing his determination to fight back against his health challenges. Sanders’ journey, filled with numerous surgeries and significant physical setbacks, showcases his spirit and relentless drive. “I’m not shy about what transpired. I’m back. I’m fighting back, baby,” he continued.

What Caused Deion’s Blood Clots?

According to The NIH, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condi-

tion that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, usually the leg. Amputation is one of the serious complications that can occur if DVT is left untreated.

Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots

• throbbing or cramping pain;

• swelling;

• warm skin around the painful area;

• red or darkened skin around the painful area;

• swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them.

These symptoms can also occur in the arm or stomach. Emergency medical attention should be sought if you have the above symptoms accompanied by breathlessness or chest pain.

DVT can be very serious. The blood clot can block blood flow to the leg, or it can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. This can be life threatening and needs treatment straight away.

Who is Most Likely to Get this Condition?

DVT is more likely to happen if you are over 60, overweight, smoke, have had DVT before, take the contraceptive pill or HRT, have cancer or heart failure, or have varicose veins.

You can also be at risk of DVT in some temporary situations such as being confined to bed, going on a long journey, or if

“I’m getting better,” Sanders said. “My health journey has been a tremendous challenge but a learning experience as well.” He went on to say, “I remember last year close to this time, I had two surgeries in my thighs to remove blood clots and the goal was just to run out the first game before my team.” The root of Sanders’ medical issues lies in severe blood clots that have plagued his legs over recent years. In 2019, Deion Sanders revealed that he had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This diagnosis came as a shock to many, as Sanders had always been known for his athleticism and physical fitness. At 56, he has undergone 12 surgeries to alleviate the pain caused by these clots. Since 2022, two of these procedures resulted in the amputation of his toes. Despite these personal health battles, Sanders remains focused on his role in Boulder with the Buffs.

you are pregnant or dehydrated. How is it Treated?

You can have an injection of anticoagulant (blood thinning) medicine, heparin, while you are waiting for an ultrasound scan to tell if you have a DVT.

After DVT is diagnosed, the main treatment is to take anticoagulant tablets for at least three months. If this medicine is not suitable, you may have a filter put into a large vein (the vena cava) which traps and stops a blood clot travelling to your heart and lungs. A newer form of treatment involves breaking up and sucking out the clot through a small tube in the vein. How can this Lead to amputation?

A delayed or missed diagnosis of DVT can sadly have serious and life-changing implications. When left untreated, a blood clot can block or restrict blood flow to the arteries in the limb making amputation a necessary and life-saving procedure. When the pain Deion felt in his toes and in his legs didn’t stop, he initially thought it came from old football injuries. But it was after the doctors performed surgeries that he felt the pain continue which led him to discover the blood clots.

Coach Prime is setting the example to go get checked out if something doesn’t feel right with your body. You can be your greatest advocate.

NFL Legend Michael Irvin Opens Up About Wife’s Struggle with Alzheimer’s

by Jason Henderson, BlackDoctor.org

Dallas Cowboys legend Michael Irvin recently opened up about his wife Sandy’s struggle with early-onset Alzheimer’s, a condition she has been facing for the past five or six years. The 58-year-old former wide receiver, who has been married to Sandy since 1990, shared this personal news with the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Irvin, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and a prominent NFL analyst, has been retired from professional football since 2000. Despite his fame and career accomplishments, his focus is now on his family, particularly his wife’s health. He first disclosed Sandy’s diagnosis to patrons at his Playmakers88 sports bar in The Colony, Texas, illustrating the emotional and physical toll Alzheimer’s has taken on their lives.

Sandy, also 58, experiences significant difficulties due to the disease. She struggles with walking and speaking and requires around-the-clock care from a livein caretaker. Michael has emphasized his commitment to ensuring she remains at home, receiving the care she deserves. “If anyone has earned the right to stay in her house, MY WIFE HAS!!!,” Irvin passionately told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram via text. He remains resolute in honoring this promise, saying, “That I shall honor. No matter what it takes.”

The Challenges of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

Early-onset Alzheimer’s is a rare and particularly challenging form of the disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it affects individuals under the age of 65, most commonly those in their 40s and 50s. This form of Alzheimer’s is less common, making accurate diagnosis a long and frustrating process for many families.

Doctors and scientists are still trying to

understand why early-onset Alzheimer’s manifests at such a young age. In some rare cases, specific genetic mutations are identified as the cause, but for the majority of sufferers, the reasons remain unknown.

Impact on the Black Community

Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately impacts the Black community, with Black Americans being twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to their

white counterparts. This disparity is attributed to a combination of genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors. Higher rates of conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which are risk factors for Alzheimer’s, further exacerbate the prevalence of the disease in the Black community.

Awareness and access to healthcare are critical in addressing these disparities.

Cultural stigmas and lack of resources often delay diagnosis and treatment, making it essential to promote education and provide support within these communities.

Tips for Managing Early-Onset Alzheimer’s For those diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, the journey can be particularly daunting. Here are some tips to help manage the condition:

• Seek Early Medical Advice: Early diagnosis can help in planning and accessing treatments that may alleviate symptoms or slow progression.

• Stay Active: Physical exercise can improve overall well-being and may help in maintaining cognitive function.

• Mental Stimulation: Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, can be beneficial.

• Build a Support Network: Connecting with family, friends, and support groups can provide emotional support and practi-

cal assistance.

• Plan for the Future: Legal and financial planning can ensure that your wishes are respected and that you have the necessary resources for care.

• Consider Professional Help: Professional caregivers or memory care facilities can provide specialized support and relieve some of the burdens on family members.

The Broader Impact of Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern in the United States. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 7 million Americans are living with the disease, with 6.9 million aged 65 and older affected in 2024 alone. These statistics highlight the pervasive and growing challenge that Alzheimer’s poses to families and healthcare systems nationwide. Irvin’s revelation brings a personal face to the battle against Alzheimer’s, underscoring the emotional and practical challenges faced by caregivers and families. His plea for prayers and support resonates with many who are similarly affected by this debilitating disease.

As Irvin continues to support his wife Sandy through this difficult journey, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of love, dedication, and the need for continued awareness and research in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

Michael Irvin and his wife Sandy Harrell photographed in 2019 in Atlanta.

PHOTO: DIA DIPASUPIL/GETTY

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

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

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

Ms. Devin Marra Acting Executive Director

Assistant Production Manager

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

APPLY NOW!

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

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

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

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

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

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

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

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.

• Tenants are required to comply with your lease.

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

• Tenants are already prescreened for criminal background.

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

NOTICIA

• Tenant rent portion is affordable based on income.

Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

INVITATION TO BID HORACE STRONG SCHOOL HOUSING

New Haven, CT

Project Description: The scope of the project includes: adaptive reuse of an existing vacant 31,690 sf, historic, three level school for 14, affordable one and two bedroom artist livework space, exhibit space and community space.New 50,660 sf 4 story construction for 44 affordable residential units in studio and one bedroom configurations.

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

• No cost, documented inspections of your unit.

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

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

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

METERING SUPERVISOR

NEW HAVEN

The Town of Wallingford, CT is offering an excellent career opportunity for a strong leader to supervise and manage the meter department of the Town’s Electric Division. Applicants should possess 3 years of progressively responsible supervisory or management experience in a utility relating to metering, plus a bachelor's degree in engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Driver’s License. Annual Salary: $112,393 to $140,419. 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 deferred compensation plan. To apply online by the closing date of July 15, 2024, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/ government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

Laboratory Manager

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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.

Project Documents Include but not limited to: Selective & structural demo, asbestos abatement, earthwork, concrete, gypcrete, historic masonry restoration, misc. metals, rough & finish carpentry labor & material, wood trusses, stairs, final cleaning, thermal & moisture protection, fiber cement siding, EPDM roofing, firestopping, steel doors and frames, flush wood doors, access doors & aluminum windows, skylights, door hardware, glazing, gypsum board assemblies, acoustical ceilings, tin ceilings, flooring, toilet, bath and laundry accessories, terrazo tile, painting, wire mesh storage lockers, louvers & vents, signage, fire extinguishers/cabinets, bath accessories, postal specialties, residential appliances, facility waste compactors, residential casework & countertops, entrance floor mats, horizontal louver blinds, bicycle racks, vertical wheelchair lifts, elevators, fire suppression, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, EV charging stations, solar, radon mitigation, landscaping and sanitary facilities.

This is our project | Open Shop | Taxable | SHPO Standards City of New Haven Subcontracting Requirements will apply | Anticipated start Jan 2025.

Bids are due to Haynes: 7-10-2024 by 3 pm to Tiffany Domain – tdomain@haynesct.com If you have not already received this invitation to bid and would like to, please email your business name, contact information and trade to Tiffany Domain - tdomain@haynesct. com Tiffany will add you to Procore and send you the ITB for easy access to plans and specifications.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

All questions must be submitted in written form and directed to: Tiffany Domain - tdomain@haynesct.com (203) 888-8170 Nicholas Pappas - npappas@haynesct.com (203) 888-8111

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Please send resume to attielordan@gmail.com PJF Construction Corporation AA/EOE

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.

Walkthroughs are available as early as the week of June 24, please reach out to Tiffany tdomain@haynesct.com to arrange date and time. 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

Building Construction Inspector

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

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

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

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

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to supervise and perform high level tasks in the chemical, bacteriological and physical analyses of raw (untreated) and potable (treated) water and wastewater. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or related field, plus 2 years’ experience in chemical laboratory analytical work. Experience with water and wastewater analysis, atomic absorption, graphite furnace, complex analytical equipment and standard laboratory QA/QC practices is preferred. Must possess and maintain Laboratory Director Certification for chemistry from the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health. Must also obtain and maintain Laboratory Director Certification for microbiology within two (2) years from appointment date. Salary: $77,589 to $98,418 annually, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, and 13 paid holidays. To apply online by the closing date of July 12, 2024, please visit: www. wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

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 HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE

The Town of Wallingford is seeking qualified applicants to perform construction inspection work to insure compliance with applicable local and State building construction codes. The position also performs inspections of housing and buildings for compliance with Town ordinances and regulations related to rental housing. Applicants should possess 3 years’ experience in building construction, code enforcement or related work and be a H.S., vocational, or technical school graduate, or an equivalent combination of experience and training substituting on a year-for-year basis. Must possess or be able to obtain within 12 months of hire a valid State of Connecticut Construction Inspector Certification. Must possess and maintain a valid State of CT Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Salary: $67,438 to $85,430 annually, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, and 13 paid holidays. To apply online by the closing date of July 8, 2024, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

Emergency Medical Technician

NOTICE

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

e Town of Wallingford Fire Department is seeking quali ed applicants for EMT. Applicants must possess a H.S. diploma or GED, and be a Connecticut or National Registry Certi ed EMT with CPR Certi cation. 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. e Town o ers an excellent fringe bene ts 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

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)

Invitation to Bid: PARCEL B PHASE 1

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.

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

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly

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

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

GENERAL COUNSEL

SCRCOG is seeking quotes from quali ed law rms and/or attorneys to provide general counsel. is RFQ is intended to result in a contract with a quali ed law rm or attorney that can provide timely and e ective legal support as needed. Disadvantaged, minority, small, and women-owned business enterprises are encouraged to respond. e complete request for quotes (RFQ) document can be obtained on the SCRCOG website, www. scrcog.org/. RFQs shall be submitted in the manner speci ed 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 A rmative 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

ELECTRIC UTILITY

SUBSTATION AND MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Portland

Police Officer

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

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.

& Bids to:

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

dlang@haynesct.com HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

APPLY NOW!

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

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

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN:

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

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

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

The Town of Wallingford, CT is offering an excellent career opportunity for a strong leader to supervise and manage the substation electrical operations and maintenance department of the Town’s Electric Division. Applicants should possess 5 years of progressively responsible supervisory or management experience in substation operations, plus a bachelor's degree in engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain ESOP-100 Switching and Tagging qualifications within six months. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Driver’s License. Annual Salary: $116,798 to $145,998, plus on-call pay when assigned. 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 deferred compensation plan. To apply online by the closing date of July 15, 2024, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/ government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

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

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

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 –

Parking Lot

Structure

and Deck

Repair

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

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.

IN MEMORIAM: Rev. James Lawson, Jr.: A Legendary Civil Rigahts Leader Who Trained John Lewis in Non-Violence, Dies at 95

By Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire Contributor

One of the last living legends of the American Civil Rights Movement that fought against violence and injustice on behalf of Black Americans, Rev. James Lawson, Jr., has died in Los Angeles. The reported cause was cardiac arrest. Lawson was a legendary associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a teacher, strategist and associate alongside all the major figures of the American Civil Rights Movement from King to Ralph Abernathy and James L. Farmer Jr. to John Lewis, Roy Wilkins and Bayard Rustin. Lawson would become an indispensable architect in the fight for justice for Black citizens in America.

Lawson’s path as a civil rights activist was notably shaped during his time as a missionary in India from 1953 to 1956. While in India, Lawson studied Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolence, which deeply resonated with his Christian beliefs. After returning to the U.S. Lawson enrolled at the Oberlin School of Theology in Ohio and met Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1957.

The rising community activist recognized Lawson’s potential and convinced him to move to the South to train activists in nonviolent activism. Before Oberlin, Lawson attended Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, Ohio, where he became active in the Fellowship of Reconciliation, an organization dedicated to nonviolent action.

“The world won’t get no better if we just

let it be.” Rev. James Lawson Jr. embodied these lyrics. He was a courageous nonviolent strategist who taught many to meet injustice with what my father called “soul force.” My condolences to his family. May his legacy live on,” wrote Bernice King, the daughter of the legendary civil rights leader.

“The King Center mourns Rev. James Lawson Jr., a leading nonviolent strategist whose insight was deeply valued by Dr. King. Rev. Lawson, who died at 95, profoundly impacted the Civil Rights Movement, training leaders like John Lewis and Diane Nash. Condolences to his family,” reads a note from the King Center read after news of Rev. Lawson’s death.

Lawson moved to Nashville, Tennessee, and enrolled at Vanderbilt University’s Divinity School. In Nashville, Lawson played a key role in organizing and leading workshops on nonviolent tactics. His efforts culminated in the Nashville sit-ins of 1960 and Lawson successfully desegregated lunch counters in the city. The sit-in strategy became a crucial part of the broader Civil Rights Movement in the years to come as the non-violent protest won the attention of the nation and the world as it shined a light on the absurdity of segregation laws in the South. Lawson became a key figure in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and continued to work closely with Dr. King, participating in several major campaigns during the Civil Rights Movement. They included the Freedom Rides and the March on Washington in 1963. Lawson’s commitment to nonvio-

lence remained steadfast even in the frequent and brutal face of violence and arrest by law enforcement in the South that shared close ties with the Ku Klux Klan.

“The Southern Poverty Law Center joins the world in mourning the loss of the Rev. James Lawson Jr., a civil rights activist who led sit-ins, marches and Freedom

Today we remember the Rev. James Lawson Jr. as we continue pushing for equality and justice. Rest in power. #TheMarchContinues,” a message on social media from the Southern Poverty Law Center read in tribute to Lawson.

“The world has lost a powerful life force

and mentor to so many of us. Expelled, arrested, and repeatedly brutalized, Rev. James Lawson never stopped waging revolutionary nonviolence against racism, sexism, militarism, and plantation capitalism. Rise in power, ancestor,” wrote Tennessee legislator Rep. Justin Jones in honor of Lawson.

“We just lost a moral giant and spiritual genius- Rev. James Lawson, one of the greatest freedom fighters of our time! His courage and compassion was incredible! His prophetic witness shall forever burn in my heart!” wrote Princeton Professor Cornel West.

Reverend Lawson was born on September 22, 1928, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. He grew up in Massillon, Ohio, where his father was a coal miner and Methodist minister who instilled in him a strong sense of faith and justice.

After King was killed in 1968, Lawson continued his work as social justice advocate. He served as pastor of the Holman United Methodist Church in Los Angeles from 1974 to 1999, where he focused on issues such as worker and immigrant rights. Lawson continued to be an influential voice, advocating for nonviolent resistance and human rights.

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

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 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 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 “Rep-

resent!”

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.”

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