INNER-CITY NEWS

INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016 THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Why Cultural Competence Important In African American Mental Healthcare Financial Justice aIsKey Focus at 2016 NAACP Convention New Haven, Bridgeport

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Volume 27 . No. 2311 Volume 21 No. 2194

If Beale Street Could Talk

Malloy Malloy To To Dems: Dems:

“DMC” City Homeless Demand Bill Of Rights

Ignore Ignore“Tough “ToughOn OnCrime” Crime”

Color Struck?

SnowPaul inMounds July?

Ben Is Back FOLLOW US ON 1

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As Connecticut’s First Chief Operating Officer

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE

Paul Mounds will be Gov.-elect Ned Lamont’s first chief operating officer

Birks’ Board Prez Concerns Probed THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

“All I know is that our relationship changed when I told her that she did not have the authority to sign contracts without board approval. That’s when I was told that I wasn’t doing my job, that I was doing her job,” Goldson said Monday evening. “She has to be responsible to somebody, and that is to the Board of Ed. We have policies and state laws that we have to follow. For some reason, when I reminded her of that, I am not allowing her to do her job.”

Goldson added that he won’t apologize for carrying out what he sees as his duties as the board’s president.

“If the state statutes say we are responsible for hiring and laying off, for approving contracts, for having the superintendent report to us yearly whose evaluations have been done, then that’s what we are going to do,” he said. “I’m not going to apologize for us doing our job, just because some superintendents are not used to being supervised.”

Tensions between boards and superintendents are nothing new for an urban school district, with whole books and dissertations being written on how to manage the relationship.

by CHRISTOPHER PEAK New Haven Independent

Mayor Toni Harp has hired a private investigator to look into allegations that the school board president makes the superintendent so uncomfortable that she won’t meet alone with him anymore.

The school district has brought on Andrew Crumbie, a Hartford attorney who opened a firm after a two-decade career in law enforcement, to find out if Darnell Goldson, the Board of Education’s president, acted inappropriately toward Carol Birks, the New Haven Public Schools superintendent.

Goldson has retained his own lawyer, civilrights attorney John Williams. He said Monday night that he hasn’t seen a complaint with specific allegations and doesn’t have anything to hide. But he added that the investigation won’t get him to back off from supervising how Birks does her job.

“I absolutely do not understand what’s going on. From what I understand, there hasn’t been an official complaint made, just some kind of indication that the superintendent is not happy at times because we’re, apparently, doing our job and supervising her,” Goldson said. “Certainly if there was an actual complaint made against me, I would welcome an investigation. I have not threatened anybody, so I’m not real concerned about that. I’m curious to know what the actual complaint is.”

Birks declined to discuss the investigation, but she said that she’s “committed” to getting along with the school board. No one involved has detailed the specifics of her complaint.

“I have no comment on Mr. Goldson’s behavior in private meetings,” Birks said.

“However, I can say that I remain committed to working collaboratively with Mr. Goldson, Mayor Harp and all Board Members for the benefit of our students.”

During her latest appearance on WNHH FM’s “Mayor Monday” program, Harp said that she felt a responsibility to get to the bottom of whatever transpired between the school’s two leaders during one of their Meadow Street meetings.

“As the chief elected official of this city, when someone says that they feel discomfort, I believe I have an obligation to look into it,” she said. “I didn’t think there was anybody in the city who could actually do that. So we hired a neutral person to do that.”

Harp said that, so far, she has seen no evidence of any physical intimidation. “It’s not a safety issue from a physical point of view,” she said. “We will find out more as soon as I get the report.”

The school board hasn’t signed off on an agreement with Crumbie, though he might be subcontracting for one of the district’s go-to law firms.

Goldson said he’d prefer if the Board of Ed manages the investigation, not City Hall.

“The mayor is not the boss of the board,” he said. “She appoints some board members, but at the end of the day, the board is responsible.”

To avoid any interference, Goldson said,

CHRISTOPHER PEAK PHOTOS Birks: Uncomfortable. Goldson: Doing my job.

Scholars say that ever since reformers began to demand test-score gains, especially after Bush’s No Child Left Behind Act, boards have been willing to toss superintendents, pay out their contracts and find a replacement who can quickly move the performance numbers.

A recent analysis by the Broad Center found that superintendents in the country’s biggest school districts lasted for an average of 6.16 years. Tenures were shorter for female superintendents and in districts with more students of color and more lowincome households.

Before Birks arrived, New Haven’s Board of Ed drove out her predecessor Garth Harries. They criticized him for not sharing details about a breakup of Hillhouse High School into independent academies and a partnership with a charter school operator on a new school.

This time around, Mayor Harp said, she feels confident Birks and Goldson will be back on the same page soon.

“I think they’re going to work it out,” she said in an interview last week. “I’m counting on it.”

Bus Drivers: We Need Time To Go To The Restroom

by Jack Kramer

New Haven Independent

CRUMBIE LAW GROUP

Andrew Crumbie.

he has already recused himself from developing Birks’s evaluation, passing off the responsibility to Jamell Cotto, the board’s vice president, along with Mayor Harp.

He said that he and Birks still talk regularly on the phone, and he now copies another board member on all emails.

Goldson hasn’t been interviewed yet for the investigation, he said, though his lawyer has talked with Crumbie. He said he wasn’t sure who will pay for Williams to represent him, though he guesses that the school district would eventually cover the cost.

“I’m hoping that it’s all a big misunderstanding. Because if it’s some deliberate attempt to try to eliminate a boss, then that would be extremely disconcerting for me,” Goldson said. “If false accusations are being made to remove a supervisor, then that is obviously a huge issue of concern. It also completely destroys trust between leaders.

I’m hoping that is not the case.”

For months, school board members have gone back-and-forth about how involved they should be in oversight, with some board members even switching sides in the debate about whether they’ve been “micromanaging” Birks.

TOM BREEN PHOTO

Mayor Toni Harp, Goldson (rear right) blasting Bikrs speaks at a press conference about this summer’s layoff of part-timers.

In July, five school board members ripped into Birks for sending dismissal letters to 1,153 part-time employees, calling the move a “stumble” and ordering her to reverse the decision. Mayor Harp and Goldson called a press conference with Birks noticeably absent to blast her decision.

Emails later revealed that board members had also been giving Birks directions behind the scenes, overturning her decision to suspend a student from going to prom and telling her how to manage her time.

One board member objected saying that his colleagues were “undermining” the new superintendent.

In August, Harp, Goldson, and Birks all made nice. They invited the news cameras back for a press conference together this time — to say “in the future, that we will be working together,” as Goldson put it.

But the relationship shifted again two weeks later, as board members restricted access to student data for the Weiss Institute, a contractor offering to analyze the district’s finances for free.

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BRIDGEPORT, CT —The bus drivers who make up the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) across the state are in a dispute with their employers. But it isn’t over wages or health benefits.

This one is about the right and time to go to the restroom.

A recent survey released by the ATU found that more than half of all their bus drivers which serve Connecticut riders have no access to restrooms while they’re on the job.

The survey was conducted following media reports that some bus drivers wore adult diapers on the job due to the lack of access to restrooms at work. The transit workers surveyed were from the Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, New London, Milford areas, among others.

The bus drivers also have held two rallies about the issue to try and raise awareness.

Mustafa Salahuddin, president of the Bridgeport Transit Union, said in an interview Monday, “there simply isn’t enough time in many cases for bus drivers to go to the bathroom and meet their schedules.”

“Congestion, increased ridership, and tighter schedules have all made the problem worse,” Salahuddin said.

“If I am driving and I need to go to the bathroom then I am driving under duress,” Salahuddin said. “And that’s fatigue. And duress and fatigue equal an unsafe situation that can lead to something possible catastrophic.”

Mieum Media put together a video and interviewed Salahuddin, who was a former bus driver, and several current bus drivers, about the issue.

One of the drivers in the video was Jasmine Hernandez. She said depending on the time of the day “in can really be bad.”

Another driver, McKinley Sanford, said the bus drivers bosses don’t understand the issue.

“They do no incorporate the time to pick up a Con’t on page 07

COURTESY OF MIEUM MEDIA'S VIDEO

Mustafa Salahuddin president of the Bridgeport Transit Union

COURTESY OF MIEUM MEDIA'S VIDEO

McKinley Sanford, a bus driver for the Greater Bridgeport Transit District

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

City Homeless Demand Bill Of Rights

by THOMAS BREEN

New Haven Independent

Verna spent five years sleeping on the streets after she lost her manufacturing job.

Now living in her own Fair Haven apartment, she’s still haunted by the constant stress, anxiety, and humiliation she felt whenever city police asked her to move from a bench or a sidewalk grate or a stretch of grass downtown where she had managed to fall asleep.

On Monday afternoon, Verna added her voice and her story to a broader call by

Accused Cop Applies For Family Violence Education

by THOMAS BREEN

A New Haven cop facing domestic violence charges has not yet plead guilty or innocent to allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in October.

But he has applied to participate in a pretrial diversion program for perpetrators of domestic abuse.

On Tuesday at noon in a third-floor court room at the state Superior Court building at 121 Elm St., that officer and his lawyer, Tim Gunning, submitted an application for the officer to participate in the court’s pretrial Family Violence Education Program (FVEP).

Superior Court Judge Denise Markle continued the officer’s case until Jan. 7. State Prosecutor David Strollo said the state is still trying to download the full body camera footage from when New Haven police arrested the officer on Oct. 15 after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend. The officer was released on $5,000 bond.

“The FVEP gives eligible defendants the chance to attend programs that provide education about family violence instead of going to trial,” a one-page explanatory document on the court’s website says about the program. “Family violence generally means an incident that results in physical harm to, or an act of threatened violence between, family or household members The officer did not speak during the brief proceeding. The department has placed him on administrative duty pending the outcome of his criminal case, Chief Anthony Campbell said after the officer’s first court hearing.

Four other city cops were arrested on domestic violence-related charges in separate cases during a three-month period earlier this year. One, Ryan Walker, who was originally charged with strangulation, ended up pleading guilty to charges of breach of peace and reckless endangerment. Lt. Rahgue Tennant, at the time the top Dixwell cop, allegedly beat and threatened his wife and kept her hostage for a week. A third officer allegedly kicked his wife in the chest, “slapped her in the face” with both hands, beat and bruised her, as she begged for him to stop hurting her, and had previously beaten her as well. A fourth officer’s charges were nolled.

local homelessness advocates seeking to codify a city “bill of rights” for New Haveners without a home.

Around 40 homeless people and affordable housing advocates gathered with Verna outside City Hall for an hour-anda-half protest in support of the Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights and the Resolution to Decriminalize Homelessness. Both proposals would enshrine in city law a homeless person’s rights to enjoy public space and pursue employment, housing, and healthcare opportunities without facing discrimination.

“It’s so good to be able to lay your head somewhere warm,” Verna said on Monday.

But those who do not have stable housing, she said, shouldn’t face discrimination just because of that lack.

Both proposals are currently before the Board of Alders Human Services Committee of the Board of Alders. Committee Chair and Westville Alder Darryl Brackeen, Jr. said he is waiting for the city’s Corporation Counsel to finish a legal review of both proposals before holding public hearings and voting on the items.

The Bill of Rights enumerates board goals, as does the resolution, which seeks to have officials and citizens “respect” homeless rights.

“Each year Mayor Harp and the Board of Alders work to ensure the City of New Haven remains sympathetic to issues faced by homeless residents, and to the concerns of homeless advocates,” city spokesperson Laurence Grotheer said in an email statement on Monday afternoon. “New Haven’s annual budget appropriates more than $1 million for homeless services, through which the city’s non-for-profit service partners provide shelters, transitional housing, meal programs, counseling, and other assistance programs. The mayor and the city’s Office of Corporation Counsel have been tracking this initiative as it works its way through the legislative process.”

Click here and here to download the proposed legislation.

Monday’s protest was led by members of Housing Not Jails, a homeless-rights initiative of the Connecticut Bail Fund that is also part of the larger affordable housing advocacy group, the Room for All Coalition “Homelessness is not a stigma,” said Sade, a homeless New Havener who served as the MC for the event. “Everyone is at risk of being homeless.” She cautioned that many New Haveners are one paycheck or one injury or one mistake away from losing their homes and sleeping on the streets.

Her fiance and fellow Housing Not Jails organizer Donny enumerated the various rights included in the proposed legislation, which builds off of a statewide Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights that Connecticut’s legislature adopted in 2013.

The first right is the right to enjoy public space without being harassed by the police.

“No matter where we’re at,” he said, “we get questions about everything: What you doing? Where you going? Why you here?

It’s not right.”

THOMAS BREEN PHOTO

Verna at Monday’s protest .

officer during an altercation on the Green.

He said he was ultimately released when police body camera footage showed that he was not at fault in the interaction.

“We need a new system,” he said, “Cause this system’s broken.”

Homeless rights activist Bealton Dumas compared the proposed bill of rights to a sledgehammer that will knock down barriers of discrimination and stigma currently preventing city homeless people from living lives of dignity as they try to secure stable housing.

“Don’t stereotype,” he said. “Don’t pass judgment.” Everyone is just a small slip away from homelessness themselves, he said.

The Connecticut Bail Fund’s Brett Davidson also pleaded with those listening to not stereotype or negatively profile someone just because they are homeless.

“We should have a system where everyone has a roof over their head at night, and no one has to live in fear of law enforcement,” he said. “But that’s not the reality that we live in right now.”

So as long as there are homeless people in this city, he said, they deserve to have the same basic human rights that people with houses have, and those rights should be protected by city law.

Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights Below is an excerpt from the Homeless Person’s Bill of Rights.

He said the bill also calls for freedom from employment, healthcare, and voting discrimination just because of a person’s housing status.

“We can’t vote ‘cause we homeless,” he said. “Got people on parole and probation who can’t vote.”

He called for the right to the protection of homeless people’s personal property and privacy, saying that police officers continually seize and search his and other homeless people’s bags on the Green. “We can’t walk 10 feet without having cops harass us about our bags,” he said.

He said homeless people should be able to sit on the Green for as long as they’d like, so long as they are not causing any trouble.

He and Sade said that homeless people should have access to safe shelters that allow for entire families to stay together.

“There are family shelters, but men cannot go,” Sade said. “There are men who would love to be with their families. Why can’t they be with their families? Why should they have to be split up?”

Donny added that homeless people are all

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too often barred from housing opportunities because of background checks that disqualify those with criminal records.

“Please, help us get this Bill of Rights passed,” he said. “Everybody else has them. Why cant the homeless has them, too?”

In addition to Donny and Sade, a halfdozen other currently or recently homeless New Haveners shared their stories to the larger call for legislative action.

“I was working on my job, got hurt, the bills added up, and I ended up on the streets,” said Verna, a 35-year-old from Waterbury who lost her job making brake pads and ended up on the streets of New Haven. She now lives in an apartment in Fair Haven thanks to the help of the local social service provider Columbus House. But, she said, she still shudders at the shame and anxiety she felt living on the streets and shuffling from place to place to sleep each night.

Alik, a 40-year-old New Havener who has been homeless for two years, said he spent four months in the Whalley Avenue prison because of a charge of assaulting a police

a) The Right to Enjoy Public Space. The right to use and move freely in public spaces, including sitting, lying down, sleeping, or resting in public spaces, both individually and while assembling in groups, which shall include but not be limited to public sidewalks, public parks, public transportation, and public buildings, in the same manner as any other person or groups and without discrimination on the basis of his or her housing status; b) The Right to Employment Fairness.

The right not to face discrimination in seeking, obtaining, or maintaining employment due to the lack of a permanent residence or a permanent mailing address, or because the mailing address is that of a homeless shelter, or a homeless or social services provider; c) The Right to Medical Care and Dignity in Meeting Basic Needs. The right to medical care, free from discrimination based on housing status. The opportunity to perform basis needs, such as to defecate, urinate, and to access clean water and other living necessities, in public locations and facilities, which includes public parks and buildings, with dignity and relative privacy under hygienic circumstances and conditions, in clean, safe, highly accessible facilities, free to all persons regardless of housing status; d) The Right to Vote. The right to vote, register to vote, and receive any documentation required by law to prove identity for voting, without discrimination due to housCon’t on page 18

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Access Health Extends Enrollment Deadline to January

by Christine Stuart Ct. News Junkie

HARTFORD, CT — (Updated 1:20 p.m.)

Today was supposed to be the last day to purchase health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act, but according to an internal memo sent to brokers by Access Health CT, Connecticut is extending the deadline to Jan. 15.

The deadline for Connecticut residents to enroll was originally midnight Saturday, but officials with the state health insurance exchange are discovering lower enrollment and more sticker shock this year.

The memo to brokers that was obtained by CTNewsJunkie Saturday morning states: “Q: Is Access Health CT promoting (advertising) this extension actively? A: There will be an official announcement to the media on 12/17, after that time, we will be contacting customers directly (email, direct mail, text, etc.) but we will not invest in media efforts.”

Access Health CT sent a press release Saturday at 1 p.m. confirming the decision to extend the deadline Access Health CT has spent about $4 million in its marketing efforts this year, which is similar to amounts they’ve spent in past years.

Consumers will have an additional month to choose plans as they experience bigger increases in monthly premiums even though the increases approved by insurance regulators were lower.

“The average rate filings this year were lower than they have been before, but changes to plan options and subsidies have made some plan premiums go up this year,” the internal broker Access Health CT memo announcing the deadline extension states.

Access Health CT reported Friday that 102,412 residents had completed the enrollment process for 2019 or renewed their 2018 plans. That’s down from the 114,000 residents at the end of open enrollment last year.

The enrollment extension means anyone who signs up for coverage by midnight tonight will have coverage starting on Jan. 1, 2019. Anyone who signs up after that date but before Jan. 15 will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2019.

“With this extension, Access Health CT is encouraging customers who are currently covered by an insurance plan for 2019 to come and evaluate their options as they may find savings or lower premiums by choosing a different plan that better fits

their needs and budget,” Access Health CT CEO James Michel said.

Meanwhile, a ruling by a Texas judge late Friday night threw out the 2010 Affordable Care Act in its entirety less than 24 hours before the end of its sixth open enrollment.

The judge agreed with a group of 20 Republican attorneys general who felt a change in tax law last year that eliminated the penalty for not having health insurance invalidated the entire law.

Outgoing Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, whose administration oversaw implementation of the ACA, said the decision “defies logic and puts health coverage for millions of people and tens of thousands of Connecticut residents at risk.”

He said if this decision is allowed to stand

people with pre-existing conditions will once again be denied coverage when they get sick.

“Republicans in Washington and Connecticut have spent years trying to do exactly what this ruling would impose,” Malloy tweeted. “It’s nothing short of despicable, and Connecticut will fight in court to preserve the #ACA.” The White House issued a statement Friday saying “We expect this ruling will be appealed to the Supreme Court. Pending the appeal process, the law remains in place.”

Attorney General George Jepsen is representing Connecticut in appealing the decision along with a group of Democratic attorneys general across the country.

“The decision in the Texas ACA case is flat-out wrong, contrary to the law and contrary to the democratically expressed will of the people,” Jepsen said Saturday.

“We are actively discussing next steps in the case with our colleagues in other states, and we anticipate joining them in appealing this decision.”

Access Health CT wants to let Connecticut residents know that the Texas ruling does not affect their ability to sign up for and use 2019 health insurance plans through Access Health CT. “Access Health CT is the official marketplace under the Affordable Care Act in Connecticut and we are committed to upholding the ACA and the support it provides to the residents of our state,” Michel, said. “We will not let this news get in the way of fulfilling our mission to reduce the rate of the uninsured and help Connecticut residents get health insurance coverage for them and their families.”

Lamont Hires Paul Mounds As Connecticut’s First Chief Operating Officer

by Christine Stuart Ct. News Junkie

HARTFORD, CT — Drawing on his business background and discussions with other governors, Gov.-elect Ned Lamont is rethinking how government operates.

As a result of those discussions, Lamont hired Paul Mounds as his first and Connecticut’s first chief operating officer.

Mounds, 33, who worked as director of policy in Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s legislative office and served as a member of the Commission on Fiscal Stability, will have an opportunity to work with state agencies and better coordinate how they interact with each other and the public.

Mounds, who is still negotiating his salary, will report to Lamont Chief of Staff Ryan Drajewicz.

“Paul is a relationship builder and someone who understands how the executive branch agencies can best be leveraged to create lasting and impactful change on behalf of the people of Connecticut,” Lamont said.

Even though the position is new to Connecticut, having a chief operating officer in state government is not a new idea.

A survey by the National Governors Association in 2015 found the position of chief operating officer was found in a handful of states including Georgia, Illinois, Nebras-

ka, New York, Tennessee, and Vermont.

“What we’ve done is look at this from the taxpayers shoes,” Drajewicz said. “And how do we reverse engineer these processes, these agencies to ensure that the taxpayers have a better user experience when they’re looking to do business with the state of Connecticut.”

He said Mounds will be looking at creating and then evaluating the “operational metrics” for each state agency. Mounds will be able to get into the weeds with state agencies about their day-to-day operations and their efficiencies.

Mounds said the role of COO is increasing necessary as the needs of the state grow larger and are more complex.

The role will be new, but it fits within the current structure. Drajewicz, who spent the last eight years at Bridgewater Associates, said he doesn’t intend to use the new COO position to expand the number of executive branch staff, which shrank 13 percent over Malloy’s eight years.

Drajewicz said a chief of staff has three primary responsibilities: operational, budgetary and strategic. He said by giving up the operational portion to Mounds he will have more time to focus on the strategic, which includes policy.

“I think I am best serving the governor-

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Editor-in-Chief Liaison, Corporate Affairs Babz@penfieldcomm.com

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CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE

Paul Mounds will be Gov.-elect Ned Lamont’s first chief operating officer

elect as a strategic thought partner,” Drajewicz said.

He said while Mounds will be the one communicating with the state agencies “ultimately the governor is in charge and through me we’ll make sure we are prioritizing the right things.”

Keeping operational issues and headaches that come with them away from Lamont will free him up to focus on policy issues he cares about getting done.

“There are a lot of ways a chief operating

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officer will make sure all these departments are working together collaboratively,” Lamont said.

Republican Senate leader Len Fasano, RNorth Haven, applauded Mounds’ hire.

“Paul is hard-working, well-respected and has a thorough knowledge of state government,” Fasano said. “I wish Paul tremendous success in this key operational role, and I applaud Gov.-elect Lamont on this selection.”

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Stamford Representative Advocates For Ashanti Alert System

by Christine Stuart Ct. News Junkie

HARTFORD, CT — There’s an Amber Alert system for children, a Silver Alert for senior citizens over the age of 65, but there’s an “egregious gap” for missing adults ages 18 to 64.

Stamford state Rep. Pat Billie Miller has been working with her family to change that.

Ashanti Billie, Miller’s second cousin, was abducted in Virginia in 2017. She was 19 years old at the time and missing for 11 days before her body was discovered in North Carolina.

At the time of her abduction, she was too old for an Amber Alert and too young for a Silver Alert.

“We have no way of knowing for sure whether Ashanti Billie would be alive today with this kind of alert system in place,” U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said Monday at a Legislative Office Building press conference. “But we know it can help save lives.”

Miller thanked Blumenthal for helping to spearhead legislation in Congress.

“This alert would not let her death be in vain,” Miller said.

Legislation creating an Ashanti Alert system for adults ages 18 to 64 passed unanimously in the U.S. Senate, and advocates are hoping a companion bill passing on consent the the U.S. House before a new Congress convenes.

“We know we can save lives by alerting the

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE

Rep. Pat Billie Miller, D-Stamford, holds up a photo of Ashanti Billie

public about missing people,” Blumenthal said.

Miller who spoke with her cousin, Ashanti’s father, Monday morning said he wanted people to know that the reason they did this was “so that no other parent will feel the pain that we felt.”

Miller said the legislation is a “legacy” to Ashanti who was known for “helping people.”

She said if the legislation doesn’t pass Congress before the end of the year she will introduce legislation in Connecticut

that mirrors the federal legislation.

Ashanti Bille, who was from Maryland, was going to culinary school in Virginia when she was abducted and that state has already passed legislation creating an alert system for missing adults.

The alert system allows law enforcement to use billboards, cellphones, TV and radio to alert the public a person is missing.

“Time is essential,” Blumenthal said.

He said the technology is now so readily available that the expense is negligible.

New Britain Mayor Pays $500 Fine For Sending Out ‘Promotional’ Material

by Christine Stuart Ct. News Junkie

HARTFORD, CT — New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart paid a $500 fine to the State Elections Enforcement Commission last month for sending out a “promotional” brochure with a 2017 tax bill less than three months before her re-election.

New Britain Town Democratic Chairman Bill Shortell said the fine doesn’t make up for “the thousands of dollars of city funds” that were used for the promotion of the mayor.

Shortell said it’s just one example of how Stewart used the office to improve her image for her statewide run for governor and then lieutenant governor. Stewart lost the Republican primary for lieutenant governor to Sen. Joe Markley, R-Southington, in August of this year.

Stewart agreed to pay the fine and settle the case with the State Elections Enforcement Commission, but says it was simply unfortunate timing related to the state budget. In 2017, the bipartisan budget was signed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Oct. 31. The bills went out in September.

“It’s unfortunate the State of Connecticut Legislature didn’t pass a budget on time in 2017, which forced the tax mailer to be delivered later than usual,” Stewart said.

“With that said — I’m not going to stop providing necessary and prudent information to our citizens. They have a right to communication with their leaders.”

Connecticut’s election law says “No in-

CHRISTINE STUART / CTNEWSJUNKIE FILE PHOTO

New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart at the Republican Party Convention in May

cumbent holding office shall, during the three months preceding an election in which he is a candidate for re-election or election to another office, use public funds to mail or print flyers or other promotional

materials intended to bring about his election or re-election.”

The brochure contained official tax and revenue information for the 2017-2018 budget. The second side contained a “Mayor’s Message 2017” from Stewart describing policies and positions that was entitled “New Britain: Leading the Way.” The SEEC also found that the brochure touts Stewart’s accomplishments, “successes,” how “proud” she is about her “budget for the 2017-18 fiscal year,” and states that “it is an honor to serve as your Mayor.”

The SEEC found that the tri-fold brochure supported Stewart for re-election, “in that it references her accomplishments and record as Mayor and makes favorable references to the improvements to New Britain based on her record. The Commission concludes therefore that the brochure was promotional.”

Stewart said she likes to keep taxpayers informed about what’s happening.

“In the name of transparency a number of elected officials send out a message from the mayor’s desk, along with tax bills,” Stewart said. “Like my mailer, and those of my predecessors, these brochures inform taxpayers where their money is going and the return on investment they are receiving from their local government.”

Stewart signed the settlement agreement on Nov. 8 and it was adopted by the commission on Nov. 13.

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Hearst Foundations award $500,000 grant to Quinnipiac University to create scholarships for underrepresented communications students

Hamden, Connecticut – Dec. 17, 2018 – The Hearst Foundations have awarded a $500,000 grant to Quinnipiac University to establish scholarships for underrepresented students enrolled in the School of Communications.

Each year, two undergraduate students will be selected to receive scholarships from the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship Fund at Quinnipiac. To be eligible, students must be in the top 20 percent of their high school class and score at least 1,200 on the SAT or 25 on the ACT. “We are delighted with the significant gift from the Hearst Foundations to attract and retain high-performing, underrepresented students at the School of Communications at Quinnipiac,” said Mark Contreras, dean of the School of Communications. “This Hearst grant will create a more representative and diverse student body at the school moving forward.”

The first two Hearst scholars will be selected for the Fall of 2019 and two additional scholars will be chosen each of the next four years, resulting in eight Hearst scholars by the Fall of 2022.

George Irish, Eastern director of the Hearst Foundations, said, “The Hearst Foundations are committed to supporting organizations that can make significant contributions to the communities they serve. We have been impressed with the programs, faculty and staff at the School of Communications and are excited to begin this partnership with Quinnipiac.”

The School of Communications offers undergraduate majors in advertising and integrated communications; communications and media studies; film, television and

Mark Contreras, dean of the School of Communications at Quinnipiac University. Photo by Autumn Driscoll of Quinnipiac University.

media arts; graphic and interactive design; journalism; and public relations. It also offers accelerated programs and dual-degree programs in interactive media and communications; journalism; public relations; and sports journalism. The school also offers graduate programs in interactive media and communications; journalism; public relations; and sports journalism. The school enrolls nearly 900 undergraduate and 130 graduate students.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Protesters, Cops Have City Hall Showdown

by MARKESHIA RICKS New Haven Independent

Two police officers used their bikes to block the doors of City Hall to keep protesters from entering, and then further blocked them from entering the mayor’s office late on Friday afternoon.

The protesters were seeking to deliver a letter arguing that the city needs to try harder to make police accountable for misconduct — and called their subsequent encounter with the cops a case in point.

On Monday the Board of Alders will decide whether to create a new police civilian review board. Alders are expected to vote on an ordinance that would finally create a new CRB it was supposed to years ago as a result of a 2013 charter referendum.

The protesters were at City Hall Friday to call on alders to either table the vote and go back to the drawing board or substitute language from what has been called the “M.A.L.I.K. All-Civilian Review Board proposal.”

They also were calling on Mayor Toni Harp to use the bully pulpit of her office to ask the Board of Alders to postpone the vote.

Whatever the alders do Monday the new CRB might have its first test case, should someone file a complaint against the officers who responded to City Hall Friday evening and a future board decides to use whatever investigatory powers it gets.

Two New Haven police officers did, in fact, block the main entrance to City Hall as protesters who had been holding a rally on the steps prepared to make their way inside to deliver a letter to Mayor Toni Harp.

While the organizers of the rally instructed the crowd of about 50 people gathered in the cold that they were to head into City Hall to deliver a letter to Harp’s office, police officers Evan Kelly (pictured above) and Nicole Motzer positioned themselves in front of the entrance with their bikes in front of them. When the protestoers turned around the officers were waiting.

Activist Kerry Ellington (pictured) told everyone to put their signs away, and calmly enter the building. Then she realized that the officers weren’t going to move.

“We’re taxpaying citizens,” she said. “We have a right to enter.”

Officer Kelly said he and Motzer were directed to not allow them in the building.

The protesters demanded to be allowed into City Hall before it closed.

They accused the officers of violating their rights to access a public building during business hours. Kelly called his supervisor, Sgt. Brendan Borer.

Borer by way of shift supervisor Lt. Derek Gartner gave the order to not allow the protestors into the building because they had received a call that a group of people who seemed “agitated” was about to enter the building.

The police opted to try to keep the protesters out of the building for the group’s safety and that of those inside, Gartner said.

“Why do you need to go in?” Kelly asked.

“I just heard someone say that the mayor isn’t even in there.” “What difference does

MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO

Protest begins outside.

Jenny Tumas tries to negotiate her way into the mayor’s office.

Sit-in ensues on second floor.

it make?” activist Norman Clement asked.

“It’s a public building.”

When a voice in the crowd asked if the officers really intended to keep the protest-

ers from entering the building. Kelly said he was.“You are in violation of the law,” someone said. “This is why we need a CRB.” “This is misconduct,” activist Luis

6

Luna added.

The protesters took up the cry of “Misconduct! Misconduct! Misconduct!”

“Everybody put your live stream up,” Ellington told people at one point.

The activists were already on it.

Protesters alternated between chanting, negotiating and then demanding that the officers move. The officers were calm but they weren’t moving. By that time Borer and a couple of other officers had arrived.

The protesters told the officers once again that they wanted to speak to the mayor.

That they’d tried unsuccessfully to schedule a meeting with her. They didn’t get the mayor. They did get her liaison to the Board of Alders, Esther Armmand.

Armmand tried to sort out what the protesters wanted. As they told Officer Kelly, they wanted to meet with the mayor to talk about the CRB. They also wanted to talk to her about why police officers were allowed to bar them from a public building when they weren’t doing anything wrong.

“The mayor is not here,” Armmand said.

The protesters knew that — but, they asked couldn’t Armmand get a hold of the mayor or help them set up an appointment before the alders voted Monday? Armmand said the mayor was at another function.

(She was attending this police department awards ceremony at Wilbur Cross High School at the time of the protest.), Besides, Armmand said, she is the mayor’s liaison. The protesters could talk to her.

“It’s cold outside,” Jenny Tumas, of the Yale Law School chapter of the National Lawyers Guild, pointed out. “Can we talk inside?”

Armmand said she had to find a space for the meeting and needed to know how many people would attend. Several suggested they meet in the atrium at the top of the stairs. Clement suggested the aldermanic chamber could fit everyone.

Armmand said she needed a number. Finally, someone shouted 40.

“I’ll have to go find a room,” Armmand said and went back inside, leaving protesters to cool their heels outside with the cops.

When A Door Opens Upper Westville Alder Darryl Brackeen Jr. had just stopped by City Hall to grab some items. Though he has serious concerns about the latest version of the CRB ordinance and had tried to table it before it got out of committee, he wasn’t participating in Friday’s protest.

But when he saw the throng of people at the door, he made his way to a side door that is typically locked. In seconds that door was open, and he was inside. (The door was opened by one of the protesters who declined to give his name for this story.)

A handful of protesters not directly arguing with the cops noticed and grabbed the door to keep it open. When people started to realize the door was open they filed inside and headed up the stairs to the mayor’s office. In the doorway to the mayor’s office, they found Sgt. Borer, shift supervisor Lt. Derek Gartner and Armmand.

Once again the protesters said that they

were still being blocked from delivering their letter to the mayor. By this time, city spokesman Laurence Grotheer stepped in hoping to defuse the situation by explaining to the protesters that the mayor didn’t have any influence over what happens to the CRB at this stage.

“The matter is the purview of the Board of Alders,” he said.

“The letter explains how we think she does have influence,” Ellington countered.

Armmand (pictured) told the protesters that she was still willing to meet with them.

Eventually they relented as long as she was willing to meet with them right at that moment in the atrium. Eventually, she did.

The activists had one demand: Get the mayor down to City Hall to meet Friday night or set up a meeting for them before the alders vote Monday.

Armand said she couldn’t commit the mayor to a meeting on Monday because she didn’t know her schedule. The protesters prepared to stage a sit-in.

Mayoral Chief of Staff Tomas Reyes (pictured) arrived with a similar message. He said didn’t know what the mayor’s schedule was on Monday and couldn’t commit her time “Once we get a date and time to meet with the mayor on Monday, we’re good to go,” Ellington told Armmand as she sat on the floor with a couple dozen people.

Within a matter of minutes, they got a date and time: Monday at 2:30 p.m.

They celebrated with a chant. “What do we want? Justice! When do we want it?

Now!” Ellington told the crowd to wear black and pack the aldermanic chamber at Monday’s meeting. Everyone dispersed. There were no arrests.

An Alder’s Perspective Though Brackeen didn’t participate in the protest, he did stick around to watch it unfold once it got inside City Hall. He is one of the alders who voted against advancing the proposed CRB ordinance that will be before the full board Monday.

He said he’s been an advocate over the last five or six years for a CRB that people could have confidence in. He said had there been a true opportunity to help draft the ordinance those who are now protesting it would have been more likely to support it.

That didn’t happen.

Brackeen said he had pressed to be part of a working group to draft the ordinance and was denied an opportunity to do that.

He had expected the community to be an active part of that working group. He said they weren’t because no such group was actually created. He supports the new CRB having subpoena power and said there is clear precedent for such a board to have it.

“We’re still not getting the legislation correct,” he said of the ordinance that alders will consider. “I intend to stand on the floor and offer several amendments or support amendments.”

Brackeen was keeping what those amendments might be close to his vest Friday night but he said they will involve transparency and subpoena power.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

APT Clinic Clash Gets Personal

by MARKESHIA RICKS

Bus Drivers: We Need

Time To Go To The Restroom

New Haven Independent

On the same day that a man was found guilty of killing another outside a methadone clinic in the Hill, residents meeting in the elementary school next door took sides on the value of having that clinic as a neighbor.

The debate got personal, on both sides.

It took place Tuesday night at a joint Hill North and Hill South Community Management Team meeting at John C. Daniels School a block up Congress Avenue from the APT Foundation’s methadone clinic.

On one side, longtime Hill resident and activist Ann Boyd told the crowd that she is fed up with the addiction and crime that she said the clinic attracts to the area. On the other side, Wanda Dawson encouraged her neighbors to think about the good that the clinic has done for people, including her.

Boyd said she was concerned about a methadone clinic being so close to an elementary school. She said children should not be exposed to the clinic’s clients, who hang around the streets near Congress Avenue sometimes engaging in crime and drug use.

A man was stabbed 16 times outside the clinic last year.

Boyd indicated that her understanding of the history of the APT Foundation clinic was that it was originally supposed to be located at the more isolated former Welch School (now the construction site of a new mixed-use development), and it was stopped. But somehow, without any consultation with the neighborhood, the clinic landed in its current location, she said.

After the holiday season, Boyd said, she plans to trade her boots for a pair of tennis shoes so she can hit the streets to start a campaign to get the clinic to pull up stakes.

“The APT Foundation has to come out of there,” she said. “We don’t want it in the Hill.”

Dawson told those gathered that she works for the APT Foundation. She said she has 14 years of sobriety because of the help she got there. She said it makes her sick to her stomach when people blame the clinic for the troubles on Congress Avenue.

“I’m here today because of the APT Foundation,” she said. “We don’t try to damage lives; we try to save lives.”

She urged neighbors, instead of pointing fingers, to work together for a solution and to help those who are less fortunate.

“This here addiction does not discriminate,” she said. “The APT Foundation has been good to me. It saved my life.”

Another neighbor said it’s not about knocking what the foundation does for people, but about what is allowed to take place outside APT’s door around children.. She

Con’t from page

Dawson: APT “saved my life.”

MARKESHIA RICKS PHOTO

neighbors..

Harp updates

works at a similar facility on East Street.

She said they don’t have similar problems because clients don’t hang out at the facility after treatment.

“They get their medications, and then they move along,” she said; they are encouraged to do so by not only the on-site security but the police. Also, that program is not a block from a school.

Sylvester Salcedo, who serves as the John C. Daniels Parent-Teacher Association president, told the assembled neighbors that he’s willing to help facilitate community conversations about the opioid crisis.

He said he thinks that conversation should include not only neighbors and foundation representatives but clinic clients too.

wheelchair passenger into our schedule,” Sanford said. “They sit up in their office with a ruler and say “from point A to point B takes 20 minutes — they don’t figure a turn here, a turn here, or a stoplight here.”

“Sometimes I get down to the terminal and it’s just about time to take off but I have to go relieve myself,” Sanford said. “I have to stop the bus and get permission to go to the bathroom — and the passengers don’t understand this.

In the recent ATU survey on the issue 60 percent of bus drivers reported having no clean, accessible, well-equipped or secure restrooms at the end or along their routes.

Four out of five said they simply didn’t have enough time built into their route to go to the restroom, according to the survey; two-thirds said they had changed their eating and drinking habits to, hopefully, be able to refrain from needing to use the restroom while they were driving their routes.

The survey further reported that more than a quarter had soiled themselves or pulled their bus over on the side of the road to relieve themselves.

The biggest reason bus drivers won’t stop and go, when they need do, is they fear that they will be disciplined if they wind up being late with their run because they went to the restroom.

“A lot of people get points (discipline) if they are late, so I won’t go to the bathroom,” said bus driver Sendra Childs-Corning in the video.

Salahuddin said from his perspective the restroom break problem isn’t a contract issue for the unions.“It’s a human issue,” he said.

Bus driver management isn’t insensitive to the problem at least that’s what Doug Holcomb, chief executive officer of the Greater Bridgeport Transit District, said in an interview Monday.

The restroom break problem is “a national issue” for the bus driving industry, Holcomb said.“We’ve taken steps to address the issue over the years,” Holcomb insisted. “Over the last eight years we have modified schedules and worked with the bus drivers when issues come up to fix problems,” Holcomb maintained.

Holcomb did take issue with Salahuddin’s claim that bus ridership was increasing, making going to the bathroom a tougher chore for drivers.“Actually our highest ridership was during a period in the summer of 2014 when gas prices were very high,” Holcomb said.

“While ridership is up from our low periods the fact that gas prices currently are more affordable means less riders from peak periods.”

Nevertheless, Holcomb said that management will continue to meet with the drivers in an effort to address the problem.

“Our door are always open,” Holcomb said.

“Schedules can and will change if they need to.”

CTtransit General Manager Cole Pouliot echoed Holcomb’s comments, stating CTtransit has set up “bathroom committees” to discuss the bus drivers concerns with an eye toward trying to resolve the issue.

“We are committed to listening and trying to work together with the bus drivers on this issue,” Pouliot said.

CTtransit is a division of the state Department of Transportation that provides bus service via contract with providers in seven different areas of the state, mostly concentrated in the Hartford and New Haven areas.

The Greater Bridgeport District operates independently from CTtransit.

7

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Dr. Gladys West: The Black Woman Behind GPS Technology

by Derrick Lane, BlackDoctor.com

GPS or the Global Positioning System is something that we use every day. From finding your local supermarket, checking your directions if you get lost or mapping out your daily commute to avoid traffic, GPS is with us everywhere we go. It has literally changed the way we work, play and live.

While billions of people use GPS in their car or on their phone, many don’t know that a Black woman is behind the creation of it. That’s right, Dr. Gladys West, a Black woman from Virginia was instrumental in creating the device we use today.

And now, she’s finally getting her recognition that’s long overdue.

On December 6, the 87-year-old West was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame by the United States Air Force during a ceremony at the Pentagon.

As a girl growing up in Dinwiddie County south of Richmond in the late 1930’s early 1940’s, all Gladys (maiden name, Brown) knew was that she didn’t want to work in the fields, picking tobacco, corn and cotton, or in a nearby factory, beating tobacco leaves into pieces small enough for cigarettes and pipes, as her parents did.

“I realized I had to get an education to get out,” she said.

When she learned that the valedictorian and salutatorian from her high school would earn a scholarship to Virginia State College (now University), she studied hard and graduated at the top of her class.

She got her free ticket to college, majored

in math and taught two years in Sussex County before she went back to school for her master’s degree.

In 1956 West began to work at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, where she was the second black woman ever to be employed. West began to collect data from satellites, eventually leading to the development of Global Positioning System. Her supervisor Ralph Neiman recommended her as project manager for the Seasat radar altimetry project, the first satellite that could remotely sense oceans.

In 1979, Neiman recommended West for commendation. West was a programmer in the Dahlgren Division for large-scale computers and a project manager for dataprocessing systems used in the analysis of satellite data.

In 1986, West published “Data Processing System Specifications for the Geosat Satellite Radar Altimeter”, a 60-page illustrated guide. The Naval Surface Weapons Center (NSWC) guide was published to explain how to increase the accuracy of the estimation of “geoid heights and vertical deflection”, topics of satellite geodesy. This was achieved by processing the data created from the radio altimeter on the Geosat satellite which went into orbit on 12 March 1984. She worked at Dahlgren for 42 years, retiring in 1998. Her contributions to GPS were only uncovered when a member of West’s sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, read a short biography West had submitted for an alumni function.

West’s humble nature actually kept people from knowing how instrumental she was in the development of the device for decades.

West admits that she had no idea, at the time, when she was recording satellite locations and doing accompanying calculations—that her work would affect so many.

… those who worked with her or heard about her.

Ralph Neiman, her department head in 1979, acknowledged those skills in a commendation he recommended for West, project manager for the Seasat radar altimetry project. Launched in 1978, Seasat was the first satellite designed for remote sensing of oceans with synthetic aperture radar.

In a 2017 message about Black History Month, Capt. Godfrey Weekes, then-commanding officer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, described the “integral role” played by West.

“She rose through the ranks, worked on the satellite geodesy [science that measures the size and shape of Earth] and contributed to the accuracy of GPS and the measurement of satellite data,” he wrote. “As Gladys West started her career as a mathematician at Dahlgren in 1956, she likely had no idea that her work would impact the world for decades to come.”

“I was ecstatic,” she said. “I was able to come from Dinwiddie County and be able to work with some of the greatest scientists working on these projects.”

Con’t from page 7

APT Clinic Clash Gets Personal

(Photo credit: youtube.com) (Photo credit: Fredricksburg.com) “When you’re working every day, you’re not thinking, ‘What impact is this going to have on the world?’ You’re thinking, ‘I’ve

got to get this right,’” she says.

And get it right she did, according to…

Trump Administration Forced to Forgive $150M in Student Loans

By AFRO Staff

After a more than year-long delay, the U.S. Department of Education will cancel $150 million in debt owed by defrauded students, the agency announced Dec. 13.

Under borrower protection regulation established under President Barack Obama in 2016, former students or parents of students who took loans for colleges that closed between Nov. 1, 2013, and Dec. 4, 2018 would receive debt forgiveness or receive reimbursement.

The provision, known as the Automatic Closed School Discharge, was part of the Obama administration’s hemming in of for-profit colleges, such as ITT Tech and Corinthian Colleges. Almost half of the 15,000 persons eligible for the debt cancellation attended the latter, which folded in 2015 after being sued by the government for misleading its students, according to CNN. Those 15,000 students have been forced to wait, however, as Education Secretary Betsy DeVos dragged her feet in implementing the rule, which should have gone into effect

in the summer of 2017. In a June statement, DeVos called it: “a muddled process that’s unfair to students and schools, and puts taxpayers on the hook for significant costs.”

A judge in October sided with 19 states

and the District of Columbia, however, ruling that the department had to immediately enact the rule.

“This appears to be a positive development, but we will continue pressing the De-

8

partment to ensure that every single eligible borrower receives the full and complete relief they deserve,” said Aaron Ament, president of the National Student Legal Defense Network, which filed a lawsuit in the matter. “This automatic discharge rule was put into place because the impact of a school closure is so devastating on students’ plans and careers, and because many borrowers were not aware of the right to request a discharge.”

According to data from the Department of Education, almost 48,000 claims, totaling almost $535 million have been awarded to student borrowers seeking loan forgiveness.

However, more than 100,000 claims— many from former students of now-defunct for-profit institutions—are still pending.

According to the Department of Education, it began e-mailing students eligible for automatic debt forgiveness on Dec. 14 to begin the process of discharging their loans.

This article originally appeared in The Afro.

He would bring together all of those people along with experts from Yale University’s School of Public Health and School of Medicine and even the chiefs of the fire and police departments.

“I would really like to hear from the affected population,” said Salcedo, who is a lawyer who lives in Orange and an organizer for the Connecticut Heroin Users Union. He said he would also like to hear from the city on how much of its resources are used treating opioid addiction through the criminal justice system as opposed to treating it like a public health crisis.

Mayor Toni Harp, who stopped by Tuesday’s meeting to talk about the city budget, said that her administration has been meeting regularly with the APT Foundation to address the concerns of the neighborhood.

She said the clinic is licensed by the state to be where it is, so it will not likely move.

But she said there are plans for the foundation to build a bigger waiting room where people can hang out after they’ve received treatment, she reported.

“We’re hoping that would take pressure off the street,” she said.

The foundation has also started back regularly hiring off-duty police officers for security. Hill District Manager Lt. Jason Minardi said that has been going well.

Harp also said officials have identified potential state funding that could further help alleviate some of the neighbors’ concerns.

That money could fund street psychiatrists and recovery coaches to help people who have dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental illness and are often preyed upon outside the clinic. She said having recovery centers like the ones Hartford and Bridgeport have would be even better.

“We’ve been working at it,” she said.

“We’re waiting for a change in [state] administration to get those resources that we have identified.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

How Zip Codes Relate to Achievement Gaps

By Akil Wilson

There’s no question that education quality has an extraordinary impact on the future lives of students. As a parent of a new middle school student, I can personally attest to the importance of dedicated teachers, early childhood education and a focused, personalized approach to education. In numerous studies it has been shown that the quality of education, especially within the country’s public school system, varies widely by location.

There are several factors that contribute to success in adulthood. However, routinely we find that early childhood education and the empowerment of excellent teachers plays a pivotal role.

Students from economically-disadvantaged areas of inner-city school districts have a plethora of obstacles to overcome, including but not limited to: lack of economic mobility, reduced health care options, and exposure to crime.

Where schools should provide some relief from these challenges, they often serve as a

photo: Marie H. Reed Learning Center, an example of expanded educational resources and community partnership in the District of Columbia. grim reminder of how difficult it can be to escape difficult circumstances.

COMMENTARY:

Prison Reform Now!

By Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson In the few remaining weeks of the 115th Congress it is imperative that we witness the passage of legislation that will, among other things, overhaula the nation’s sentencing guidelines, and give judges the option of bypassing so-called mandatory minimum sentences that have resulted in the unfair mass incarceration of overwhelming numbers of ethnic minorities, and poor people.

The legislation, passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year, and now being considered in the Senate has the support of a number of senior officials in the Trump administration. President Trump seems inclined to support the measure, known as the First Step Act, which is supported by his daughter and her husband.

The law would be a tremendous Christmas gift for inmates in federal institutions who have received overly-harsh prison sentences during the past two decades, and for members of their families, especially children, who have been damaged by their prolonged absences.

It includes monies for programs designed to end the tragedy of released inmates continuously returning to prison.

It also calls for reductions in mandatory

minimum sentences for those who have been convicted of non-violent drug offenses.

Outside of the Congress, the legislation is being supported by influential organizations and members of the nation’s law enforcement community. The country’s largest policing body; the Fraternal Order of Police is supporting it, as is The American Civil Liberties Union.

The First Step Act is an example of significant bi-partisan legislation that can be a model for other laws that emanate in the 116th Congress that benefit the American people.

Mass incarceration has been poisonous in our country which has approximately five percent of the world’s population, but has nearly twenty-five percent of the world’s incarcerated men and women, held in state and federal penal institutions where responsible rehabilitation programs are uncommon and ineffective.

Criminologists, psychologists and social workers have concluded that job training programs, adequate housing and healthcare for formally incarcerated people will lessen the likelihood that they will commit crimes, returning them to prison.

In the past two decades our nation has been encumbered by a legislative mindset that mandated that people convicted of crimes should be sentenced to prison, and largely forgotten. That policy has been a disaster for our society, and it is now time to change it. We must do it not only for those men and women who have had their freedom taken away, but for our entire society? Justice, fairness and commonsense demand that we act, and that we act now!

Harvard University Economist Raj Chetti has researched this topic extensively, compiling data from millions of Americans, he found that education quality relates to economic and social mobility. According to Mr. Chetti’s research, on average, “only about 7.5% of children from the bottom 1/5th of incomes will reach the top 1/5th of incomes nationwide. However, those

odds tend to rise to 14-15% in rural areas and places with higher social capital.

They sometimes decrease to below 5% in impoverished or socioeconomically-disadvantaged places.”

Children in lower income brackets disproportionately tend to be the recipients of sub-par educational resources. As Mr. Chetti points out on NPR’s ‘Hidden Brain’ Podcast, larger class sizes and less experienced teachers are all indicators that students are much less likely to obtain the cognitive and social skills necessary to advance themselves and their families.

The fact that these lower-performing public schools tend to be found in more impoverished or socially/culturally isolated areas is not a coincidence.

Prior to the implementation of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) in the 2017-2018 school year, education standards were largely determined by federal standards outlined in No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). This structure did very little to address the specific needs of the most disadvantaged communities.

ESSA seeks to improve students’ chances at success by encouraging a more personalized approach to students’ needs, strengths and interests as well as improving and decreasing the emphasis on standardized testing. Much of the research suggests this approach will do more to advance specific,

individual state school system goals and impact students’ lives.

It’s very important that parents, teachers, administrators and community members take strategic steps to address factors contributing to the educational shortcomings in some of our schools while working with policy makers to equitably utilize all the tools and resources available.

The future is now, and if our community ever hopes to eliminate the disparities that are at the root of many of the issues we are often confronted with (i.e. poverty, mass incarceration, chronic unemployment) we have to begin with education.

By requiring states to identify and intervene with their lowest-performing schools and take a more tailored approach to their improvement, ESSA is poised to have a significant and measurable impact on the state of public education in America.

There is a very real correlation between underperforming schools and generational poverty. If we wish to eliminate the latter, we must tackle education with a focus and energy that is specifically tailored to the needs of our communities.

Akil Wilson is a native Washington, DC-based, podcaster, and parent. He is a contributing writer for the Washington Informer in addition to providing broadcast commentary for a variety of media outlets.

Abrams Confirms That She Will Run Again

By Kia Morgan-Smith

After stating last week that she was simply considering all options as to whether to run for a political seat, Stacey Abrams has finally confirmed that she will, Fortune reports.

Abrams, who ran unsuccessfully for the Governor’s seat in Georgia, plans to keep the fight going and previously said she’d likely run for Governor in 2022, once again against her once Republican opponent Brian Kemp.

During Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Next Gen Summit in Laguna Niguel, Calif.

Abrams threw down the gauntlet definitively saying that she will run again and then quipped to the captive audience: “Now, if you could all move to Georgia…”

She may have lost the battle to become Georgia’s first Black woman governor, but still, she cited that there were wins. She said her 2018 campaign was “extraordinarily successful.”

Abrams made it clear that she thought that there were a number of questionable issues that likely kept her from the governor’s office, like voter suppression so she is filing a federal lawsuit that alleges “gross mismanagement” of the election and the state’s voting system.

Abrams fought until the very end on the Governor’s race because “What happened was not just. That anyone had their vote tarnished or restricted or narrowed is wrong.”

This article originally appeared in The Florida Star.

10

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Why Cultural Competence Is Important In African American Mental Healthcare

by Alexis Anderson, BlackDoctor.org

Approximately 7 million African Americans experience mental illness in a given year, according to Mental Health America, but only a small fraction get adequate treatment. Psychiatry.org notes just one-third of African American adults requiring mental healthcare receive care.

For white American adults, that number is closer to one in two. African Americans face a variety of structural barriers to appropriate care, including racism and stigma.

Those who do manage to seek treatment are often met with culturally incompetent practitioners: a pattern that must change if the mental healthcare community is ever to be a viable resource for African Americans.

Why cultural competency Cultural competency requires medical practitioners to approach care for patients with sensitivity to factors that affect their experiences and values, including race, social class, and history of discrimination.

The numerous obstacles African Americans face before even reaching the point of interaction with mental health practitioners only magnifies its importance –– as discussed in a piece on the African American experience in mental healthcare from Counseling@NYU. Culturally, for African Americans, seeking treatment for mental health issues can be seen as an admittance of weakness or can potentially contribute to negative stereotypes. Stigma discourages African Americans from seeking mental healthcare as a routine self-care practice. Resistance to care and distrust of practitioners is also

Healthcare the logical byproduct of a long history of discrimination and abuse against African Americans by the medical community.

These barriers make it all the more distressing that African American people who do seek treatment often cross paths with racist or ignorant practitioners. Many report experiencing discrimination and microaggressions by therapists. Culturally incompetent practitioners drastically reduce the effectiveness of treatment and discourage African Americans from continuing to seek care.

What needs to be done An intervention in cultural competency is critical in an American healthcare system designed for white people, and for the most part, carried out by them. As Norissa Williams, clinical assistant professor for the online master’s in mental health counseling program, points out, prognosis criteria de-

signed for white people can lead to misdiagnosis in people of color.

The article cites, for example, the fact that an African American man might experience anger as a symptom of depression because of societal stigma against showing sadness, even though the same disorder would present itself differently in a white man.

Some have suggested an increased representation of African Americans on the practitioner side as a solution. While this is undoubtedly a step in the right direction for better quality of mental healthcare for people of color, African Americans are vastly underrepresented in mental healthcare professions. Failing to address cultural competency among white practitioners while devoting efforts to increasing African American representation in the field will not solve the issue.

How change can occur

According to the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute, adjusting accreditation standards to require more fluency in cultural competency can lead to improved care among practitioners. Other recommendations include training in cultural awareness and skills, communicating with community health leaders, and including community members in decisions affecting their healthcare options.

The institute points out that training in practices of specific groups (i.e. “Latinos” or “Asian Americans” or “African Americans”) can lead to increased stereotyping, as people within these groups can have extremely varied values, socioeconomic status, and experiences. While it’s important to be aware of the way structural oppression can affect members of marginalized groups, it’s also vital for practitioners to be well-versed in empathy and listening skills to take in and connect to individual patients and adjust care to each person’s

circumstances.

Those in positions of leadership in the mental healthcare community must acknowledge that the experiences of African Americans in America vary greatly from those of white people. Mental Health America points out that a long history of oppression against African Americans can contribute to factors that increase the likelihood of mental illness, such as low socioeconomic status and the trauma of experiencing racism and microaggressions.

Practitioners must take responsibility for the continued barriers African Americans face when attempting to manage mental illness and improve their cultural competency so all Americans requiring care have the opportunity to get healthy.

Alexis Anderson is a digital PR coordinator covering K-12 education at 2U Inc. Alexis supports outreach for school counseling, teaching, mental health, and occupational therapy programs.

8 Ways Long-Term Sitting Is Affecting Your Body

by Tia Muhammad, BlackDoctor.org

Our bodies are designed to always be in motion, but still, many of us spend the bulk of our day sitting at desks. According to a study, on average, a US adult spends 9 to 10 hours each day sitting, which is so much inactivity that even a 30 or 60-minute workout “as typically recommended” can’t even attempt to counteract.

The fact is, many Americans don’t fit in a workout or a long walk into their day, which means their bodies are virtually always in a sedentary state. It’s not that sitting is inherently dangerous… the danger is in how long we sit. While a brief period of sitting here and there is natural, long periods of sitting day-in and day-out can seriously impact your health and shorten our lives.

Want to know what can really happen to your body? Check out these facts of what sitting can do to your health: 1. Damages the heart. When you sit, blood flows slower and muscles burn less fat, which makes it easier for fatty acids to clog your heart.

2. Affects your pancreas. Your body’s ability to respond to insulin is affected by just one day of excess sitting, which leads your pancreas to produce increased amounts of insulin, and this may lead to diabetes.

3. Increases risk of colon cancer. Excess sitting may increase your risk of colon, breast, and endometrial cancers. How this happens isn’t known for certain, but it could be due to excess of insulin being produced, which encourages cell growth, or the fact that regular movement boosts antioxidants in your body that can eliminate potentially cancer-causing free radicals.

4. Causes problems with digestion. Sitting down after you’ve eaten causes your abdominal contents to compress, slowing down digestion. Sluggish digestion, in turn, can lead to cramping, bloating, heartburn, and constipation, as well as dysbiosis in your gastrointestinal tract, which is a condition caused by microbial imbalances in your body.

5. Leads to brain damages. Did you know your brain function slows down when your body is sedentary for too long? Your brain will get less fresh blood and oxygen, which are needed to trigger the release of brain and mood-enhancing chemicals.

6. Causes posture problems. Strained neck, shoulders, and back are not uncommon for people who sit a lot. It’s common to hold your neck and head forward while working at a computer or holding a phone to your ear. This can lead to strains to your cervical vertebrae along with permanent imbalances, which can lead to neck strains, sore shoulders and back

problems.

7. You can lose muscle. Standing requires you to tense your abdominal muscles, which go unused when you sit, ultimately leading to weak abdominals. Your hips also suffer from prolonged sitting, becoming tight and limited in the range of motion because they are rarely extended.

Sitting also does nothing for your glutes, which may become weakened, affecting your stability and the power of your stride when walking and jumping.

8. It can lead to leg problems. Sitting leads to poor circulation in your legs, which can cause swelling in your ankles, varicose veins, and blood clots. Walking, running, and engaging in other weight-bearing activities lead to stronger, denser bones. Lack of activity may cause weak bones too and even osteoporosis.

Remember, the more hours you spend sitting in a day, the shorter your lifespan could be.

Reducing the average time you spend sitting down to less than 3 hours a day could possibly increase your life expectancy. Be active. Be present…and make time for your health each and every day.

Tia Muhammad, BS, is an award-winning freelance content & media creative, copywriter, blogger, digital designer, and marketing consultant. She owns the boutique content and digital media company, jackieGLDN|studio.

12

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Savannah Black Heritage Festival Opens With Choir Concert & Dance Performance

By The Savannah Tribune

“Celebrating 30 Years of Black History, Culture and Art” is the central theme of the Savannah Black Heritage Festival scheduled for February 1-21, 2019. Cultural education and exposure to the performing and visual arts are offered for all ages and interests throughout the celebration. Special programs and activities during this festival will serve as tribute to the late Westley W. Law, the founder and former organizer of the Savannah Black Heritage Festival.

Included on the schedule are national, regional and local musicians of many genres, dance performances, a local youth talent showcase, historic tours, visual arts exhibitions by internationally acclaimed and local artists, the W.W. Law Lecture and theatre productions.

In addition to educational opportunities for youth through special programs and a health and wellness fair, a special walk and tour will trace the footsteps of W. W. Law along his U.S. Postal route in Savannah.

The 30th anniversary festival opens with a chorale concert and a dance performance.

“Songs of Freedom and Justice” will include performances by the Savannah State University (SSU) Concert Chorale, SSU alumni, faculty and friends, Sunday, February 3, 3 p.m., Butler Presbyterian Church.

On Wednesday, February 6, 7:30 p.m., a premiere evening performance by the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble of Denver, Colo., will be held at the Johnny Mercer Theater.

The dance company returns for its third appearance in Savannah, and the performance is free and open to the public. Admission tickets for the dance will not be required as seating will be on a first-come, first-seated basis. There will be a limited reserved-seat section for military families and seniors; however, these seats will be released 10 minutes prior to curtain call.

Artistic director for the dance ensemble, Cleo Parker Robinson, will engage the community with a public conversation Tuesday, February 5, 6:30 p.m., First Congregational Church, where she will highlight African-American cultural and historical influences upon dance choreography.

In addition, the ensemble will conduct school and community dance workshops during their visit, February 4 and 5.

A special day of activities and symposia will be held to commemorate W. W. Law, his work and his impact in Savannah through civil rights, historic preservation and the establishment of the three museums that illustrate the rich history of African Americans in Savannah.

The Bright Star Children’s Touring The-

atre will return and present multiple performances including Black History Hall of Fame, George Washington Carver and Friends, and Struggle for Freedom: The Life of Dr. King, in addition to an improvisational workshop. Many themes of the theatre company’s productions address Savannah leadership’s strategic plans for poverty reduction and economic development.

Also on the schedule is the tenth annual Future of Jazz legacy concert featuring young jazz instrumentalists and vocalists who are enrolled in music programs from middle school to graduate school. The concert will be the sixth performed in tribute to the late Ben Tucker.

Grand Festival Day, a family-fun event packed with activities and top entertainment, will be held at the Savannah Civic Center on Saturday, February 9. The annual gospel concert, featuring top artists, will be held Sunday, February 10.

The 2019 festival will be the 20th one produced by Savannah State University.

Many festival events and activities are free of admission and open to the public.

Updates and details are available at www. savannahblackheritagefestival.org, or call 912-358-4309.

This article originally appeared in The Savannah Tribune.

If Beale Street Could Talk

Barry Jenkins Directs Faithful Adaptation of Beloved James Baldwin Classic Film Review by Kam Williams In 1974, James Baldwin published “If Beale Street Could Talk,” a love story, set in Harlem, about a beleaguered black couple’s pursuit of the elusive American Dream. Many critics consider the heartrending novel Baldwin’s best work, perhaps because of the way in which it humanizes an array of African-American characters ordinarily marginalized and relegated to the shadows of society.

Now, Barry Jenkins, director of 2017’s Oscar-winning Best Picture, Moonlight, has brought a faithful adaptation of the revered classic to the big screen. The poignant coming-of-age tale co-stars Kiki Layne as 19 year-old Tish Rivers and Stephan James as her 23 year-old fiancee, Fonny Hunt.

At the point of departure, the star-crossed lovers are already behind the proverbial 8 Ball. Narrator Tish informs us that her beau, an aspiring sculptor, has recently been arrested for rape. Then, during a jailhouse visit, she lets him know through the frustrating glass partition that he’s going to be a father.

Fonny takes the news of the pregnancy in stride, which is more than can be said for his family, especially his disapproving mother (Aunjanue Ellis) and sisters (Dominique Thorn and Ebony Obsidian). Fortunately, Tish’s feisty mom, Sharon (Regina King), is up to the challenge of getting ev-

erybody to stop pointing fingers self-righteously in favor of focusing on the blessing of a baby that’s coming.

Meanwhile, Fonny’s impending trial looms large. For, despite an airtight alibi, he was ostensibly framed by a racist cop (Ed Skrein) capable of cavalierly framing a black man for a crime he didn’t commit.

Hope for justice rests with getting the alleged rape victim (Emily Rios) who fingered Fonny at the direction of Officer Bell to tell the truth. But she’s moved to Puerto Rico, making the prospect of her recanting in court unlikely, unless Sharon is willing to go to extraordinary lengths in quest of

exoneration.

All of the above unfolds in fascinating fashion against a variety of visually-captivating backdrops. Kudos to Barry Jenkins for crafting another compelling inner-city saga, and especially for coaxing a career performance out of Regina King, a shoo-in for an Oscar nomination.

Excellent (4 stars) Rated R for profanity and sexuality Running time: 117 minutes Production Studio: Plan B Entertainment / Annapurna Pictures / PASTEL Studio: Annapurna Pictures

13

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh Battles with Jesus in Harry Lennix’ New Gospel Musical Film

Los Angeles, CA December 3, 2018 – Actress T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh is part of an all-star line-up in the new gospel musical, Revival!, (www.revivalthemovie.com) an imaginative retelling of the gospel according to John the Apostle featuring original and contemporary gospel music, which is being embraced by churches all over the country. The film’s world premiere takes place on Tuesday, December 3, 2018 at The Museum of The Bible, 400 4th Street SW, Washington, DC. The evening will begin with a VIP cocktail reception and red carpet at 6pm, followed by performances featuring the film’s stars in advance of the evening’s 7:30 screening.

Revival! opens on Friday, December 7, 2018 in theaters in or near New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami, Houston, DC, Detroit, Dallas and Los Angeles.

In January, it will expand to screens in Memphis, Baltimore, New Orleans, Norfolk, St. Louis, San Francisco, Cleveland, Orlando, Boston, Tampa, Indianapolis and Milwaukee.

The all-star cast includes 10-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan, Michelle Williams

(Destiny’s Child), Siedah Garrett, Mali Music, T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh, Dawnn Lewis, Niki J. Crawford, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Paula Newsome, Victoria Gabrielle Platt, Harry Lennix (Blacklist), Roland Buck III (Chicago Med), and Broadway’s Chester Gregory. Keymáh will be among the films stars appearing at the film’s world premiere in DC, at Atlanta’s Word of Faith Church (212 Riverside Pkwy, Austell, GA 30168) on Dec. 6th, Fountain of Praise & Windsor Village churches in Houston on December 9, and in Detroit on December 11.

Keymáh, known world-wide for her television roles on Fox’s Emmy Award-winning ‘In Living Color,’ Disney’s ‘That’s So Raven’ and CBS’s ‘Cosby,’ recently played Johnny Carson’s gate keeping secretary in her seventh series, Paul Reiser’s comedy “There’s… Johnny,” now airing on Hulu.

She is also the author of the popular coffee table book, Natural Woman / Natural Hair.

A licensed minister, Keymáh was eager to join her long-time friend and fellow Chicago native Harry Lennix on Revival, eventually serving as Co-Executive Producer

of the film, along with actor Steve Harris.

“This film is important on so many levels,” Keymáh said. “I don’t think you can watch the film and not leave the theater excited, engaged and uplifted. Revival reaches back and forth in time to underline themes and challenges faced by humans throughout the ages. I’m proud to have been a part of it, and to have helped to bring forth such an inspirational story.”

Revival! was directed by Danny Green and Obba Babatunde from a screenplay by Lennix and Holly Carter. Original music score and arrangements are by Mali Music, ELEW, Donald Lawrence and Abdul Robinson Royal. Lennix, Carter and David C. Waite are producing the film through Merge-XJR: Exponent, Jupiter Film Group and Relevé Entertainment. The film is distributed by TriCoast Entertainment Worldwide. For more information please visit www.revivalthemovie.com.

Meet the Black Barber Making Almost $500K a Year Creating 'Man Weaves'

Atlanta, GA — Filmmaker and actor Tyler Perry has shown his generosity once again.

This time, he decided to write checks to two local Walmart stores to pay off outstanding layaway items that were registered at the stores. One store was in the city of Atlanta, and the other was in nearby Douglasville.

According to TMZ, he sent a check for $178K to one store and another check for $256K to the other. Naturally, the customers were thrilled to hear this, and all they had to do is pay a penny to pickup their items.

Later, Perry posted a video on Twitter to address why he did what he did.

In the video, he says, “I was trying to do this anonymously, but nothing these days stays secret.”

He continues, “I know it’s a hard time for a lot of people and that people are struggling, and I’m just really grateful to be in a position to do this.”

Tyler Perry is known for his television shows and films, but also his many generous acts of kindness. He has helped many individuals, families and even organizations over the years – especially those in the Atlanta area.

Tech Company Innovates Foster Care

Atlanta, GA — Filmmaker and actor Tyler Perry has shown his generosity once again.

This time, he decided to write checks to two local Walmart stores to pay off outstanding layaway items that were registered at the stores. One store was in the city of Atlanta, and the other was in nearby Douglasville.

According to TMZ, he sent a check for $178K to one store and another check for $256K to the other. Naturally, the customers were thrilled to hear this, and all they had to do is pay a penny to pickup their items.

Later, Perry posted a video on Twitter to

Wade Menendez, also known as “Wade the Barber,” has been credited for transforming the hair game as a pioneer of creating “man weaves.” Those who have a balding scalp run to his Maryland-based barbershop called The W Hair Loft, and it’s no surprise that his unique procedure has earned him almost $500,000 in one year!

Menendez, a 35-year old African-American man, has been highly acclaimed as an innovator in the field of hair styling. He developed the cranial prosthesis, most commonly known as a “man weave,” which fills a balding scalp with hair -- without the need for a surgery!

With the help of another stylist, Menendez developed a simple procedure to install hair to balding scalp. He glues natural and synthetic hair pieces to the scalp and blends it to the remaining natural hair.

For over 13 years, he has been in the barber field making impressive cuts to his wide range of clientele. In 2011, he opened his first barbershop in Glen Burnie, Maryland where numerous services are offered.

Tyler Perry Drops Over $430K to Pay Off Customers’ Layaway Items in Atlanta

address why he did what he did.

In the video, he says, “I was trying to do this anonymously, but nothing these days stays secret.”

He continues, “I know it’s a hard time for a lot of people and that people are struggling, and I’m just really grateful to be in a position to do this.”

Tyler Perry is known for his television shows and films, but also his many generous acts of kindness. He has helped many individuals, families and even organizations over the years – especially those in the Atlanta area.

And just four years ago, he added creating man weaves into his portfolio.

Aside from being a hairstylist, Menendez also hosts classes where he teaches over 500 hair professionals how to do what he does. Last October, his class gathered styl-

ists and barbers from different areas around the world, including London.

“There’s a big demand for [hair units] in the U.K.,” Steve Diligence, who flew from London to Maryland to learn from Menendez firsthand, told Vice News. “People

14

have seen videos from the states, and they say it’s impossible or magic.”

Hair weaves or extensions have been a lucrative market, especially to Black women. A market research reports that “nearly six out of 10 black consumers wear a wig, weave or extensions, which enables them to switch up their look.”

Menendez has definitely had the advantage because of that market. Last year, he earned more than $400,000 through his business alone. He revealed that he also got a few celebrities among his clients. But he says his achievements aren’t only measured by his profits.

“I’m doing this to help other people - and that’s not just with that confidence but helping other people even make money,” Menendez said. “I’m always here to do whatever I can, and I feel like that’s what I’m called on to do, so I’m operating in my purpose and my destiny.”

For more information about Wade Menendez and The W Hair Loft, visit www.wadethebarber.com

Ben Is Back

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

Addict Unexpectedly Arrives Home for Christmas in Dysfunctional Family Drama Film Review by Kam Williams

Holly (Julia Roberts) and Neal (Courtney B. Vance) are raising a family in a quaint country home in upstate New York ostensibly far removed from the sort of woes which plague the inner city. It’s Christmas Eve, and we meet Holly in church where she’s patiently watching three of her four kids practicing for the Christmas pageant.

However, looks can be deceiving, since missing from the idyllic picture is her eldest child, Ben (Lucas Hedges). For, the troubled 19 year-old has been living at a drug rehab center where he’s managed to keep clean for the past 77 days.

But Ben has left the facility without permission to be with the folks over the holidays. And the trouble starts when he breaks into the house when nobody’s there upon his arrival.

Understandably, Holly and Neal have different reactions to Ben’s return. She naively welcomes her Prodigal Son with open arms. Meanwhile, his African-American stepdad is very skeptical about allowing the addict to stay, pointing out that, if he were black, he’d probably be in prison rather than a halfway house.

Neal’s not only concerned about the prospect of Ben using again, but about the welfare of Lacey (Mia Fowler) and Liam (Jakari Fraser), his impressionable, young offspring with Holly. By contrast, teenage

stepdaughter Ivy (Kathryn Newton) is well aware of Ben’s tendency to relapse, and is dead set against an impromptu reunion.

Unfortunately, headstrong Holly gets the final say. Against her better judgment and Ben’s own warning that he can’t be trusted, she agrees to a one-day visit. What ensues is a harrowing 24-hour nightmare the gullible mom will come to regret.

Thus unfolds Ben Is Back, a timely cautionary tale written and directed by Peter Hedges (Pieces of April). It stars his son Lucas in the title role opposite Julia Roberts who proves quite convincing as a mom

in denial who becomes increasingly frazzled over the course of the misadventure.

As chilling a depiction of the suburban opioid epidemic as you are apt to find onscreen.

Very Good (3 stars) Rated R for drug use and pervasive profanity Running time: 103 minutes Production Studio: Black Bear Pictures / 30 West / Color Force Studio: LD Entertainment / Roadside Attractions / Lionsgate

Netflix Orders Its First Original African Series, ‘Queen Sono’

By Britni Danielle

Netflix is adding yet another groundbreaking series to its lineup next year when it welcomes Queen Sono to the platform.

The South African-based production will be the first original African series the streaming giant has ever commissioned.

The announcement comes just a week after Erik Barmack, Netflix’s VP of international originals, said the network would be partnering with more creators on the continent in 2019.

According to Pearl Thusi, a veteran actor and one of the stars of the show, Queen Sono is “a thrilling story about a kicka-s female spy.”

In a video, Thusi also said she “cannot wait for…every woman on this continent, and actually on this planet, to meet Queen Sono.”

Barmack compared Thusi’s character, Queen Sono, to the powerful female leads already on the network.

“Taking talent like this and telling stories to the rest of the world puts Pearl in the same category as other strong female characters like Claire Underwood in House of Cards and Jessica Jones,” he said. “Over time our roots will get deeper in Africa and South

Kagiso Lediga and Pearl Thusi in ‘Catching Feelings’ Africa, and we’re moving pretty quickly to that now, and plan to invest more in local content.”

Queen Sono was created by Kagiso Lediga, who starred with Thusi in the Netflix original film, Catching Feelings, which was also the first for the platform. Lediga hopes the new series will allow other African stories to find their way to viewers around the world.

“We believe Queen Sono will kick the door open for more awesome stories from this part of the world,” he said.

Funa Maduka, Netflix’s director of in-

ternational original films, called the company’s recent foray into original African content “only the beginning.”

“Africa is birthplace to one of the oldest storytelling traditions in the world. It also has a rich cinematic history,” Maduka told Variety back in November.

“The talent is here and we want to present ourselves as an option as they choose the best path to connect their stories with audiences,” she added.

This article originally appeared in the Chicago Crusader.

15

INNER-CITY July19, 27,2018 2016 - August 02, 25, 2016 THE INNER-CITY NEWS - NEWS December December 2018

Dispatcher

POLICE OFFICER

NOTICE

Galasso Materials is seeking a motivated, organized, detail-oriented candidate to join its truck dispatch office. Responsibilities include order entry and truck ticketing in a fast paced materials manufacturing and contracting company. You will have daily interaction with employees and customers as numerous truckloads of material cross our scales daily. We are willing Candidates may register for the testing process at www.policeapp. to train the right individual that has a great attitude. NO PHONE CALLS com/southcentral.

PLEASE. Authority, Reply to Hiring Manager, PO Box 1776, East Granby, CT 06026.

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing EOE/M/F/D/V. is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this devel-

Competitive examinations will be held for the position of Police Officer in the Madison, North Branford, Orange, Seymour, and West Haven Police Departments.

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Theopment physical performance, written, and oral board exams will be adlocated at 108 Frank Street, New Haven.

Maximum income limitations apministered by the South Central Criminal Justice Administration. ply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y

25,DEPARTMENTS 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately THE PARTICIPATING IN THIS RECRUITMENT DRIVE ARE

DELIVERY PERSON

100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon reEQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS. Part quest by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed pre-Time Delivery Needed applications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third One/Two Day a Week, Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

NOTICIA

Must Have your Own Vehicle

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES Scale House Operator , Data Entry,DE Print, Copy & Scan Documents.

If Interested call

(203) 435-1387

Working knowledge of Haz. Waste Regs., & Manifests. DOT & OSHA certification a +.

Forward resumes to Columbus RED Technologies, HOME INC, en nombre de la House y LLC de la Fax New860-218Haven Housing Authority, está 2433; or Email to HR@redtechllc.com RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo Thede Community ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones ingresos Foundation for Greater New Haven Coventry Housing Authority is accepting applications for máximos.

Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 its Section 8 Elderly/Disabled housing until January 31, 2019. Anis seeking to fill the position of Director of Gift Planning. julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) nual income limit is $20,350 (one person) & $23,250 (two people).

Please refer to our website for details: http://www.cfgnh.org/ en las oficinas de HOME Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas a petición Interested parties may pick upINC. an application at the Coventry Hous- por correo About/ContactUs/EmploymentOpportunities.aspx.

EOE. llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse ing Authority, 1630 Main St., Coventry, CT, or have one mailed.

Electronic submissions only. No phone calls a las oficinas de HOME INCbeenpostmarked 171 Orange or Street, piso, New Completed applications must handtercer delivered no Haven , CT 06510 . later than January 31, 2019.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) Request for Proposals for Architectural/Civil Design Services Submission Deadline: Friday January 4, 2019 at 3:00PM

The Fairfield Housing Corporation (FHC) is a not for profit organization and is seeking an integrated design professional team to assist the FHC in the development of the property located at 980 High Street Fairfield, CT. It is anticipated that the project will be financed through a competitive funding round and include tax credit equity through the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority with the goal of FHC (or related entity) submitting a financing application in the fall of 2019.

There is a massive shortage of affordable housing in Fairfield County and the mission of the FHC is to work with members of the Fairfield County communities to address this challenge so that those who need it, have access to safe, quality, affordable housing.

Responses must be received by the FHC at our offices located at 15 Pine Tree Lane, Fairfield, CT no later than Friday, January 4, 2019 at 3:00PM. The RFP responses must be submitted in a sealed envelope which must be marked “RFP- JUDD-RUSSO Architectural Design Services”. The responses shall contain one original and three copies for a total of four, and SHALL NOT EXCEED 15 pages. Faxes or electronic submissions will not be accepted.

Interested parties may pick up the complete RFP package at the FHC offices located at 15 Pine Tree Lane Fairfield, Connecticut, 06825, open Monday through Friday 10:00 AM to 3:00PM excluding holidays or by requesting via telephone at 203-366-6578. The Fairfield Housing Corporation conducts its business in accordance with all applicable Federal, State and Local laws. Small, Minority, Women Business Enterprises and Disabled are encouraged to participate in this process.

Listing: Retail Assistant

_______________________________ Petroleum Company has an immediate full time opening. Previous Carol J. Martin experience helpful in answering multiple telephone lines and in December 12, 2018 dealing with customers. Personable customer service skills a must.

Previous petroleum experience a plus. Applicant to also perform Invitation to Bid: Coventry Housing Authority is accepting applications for administrative tasks such as typing proposals, scheduling appoint2nd Notice 242-258 Fairmont Ave Property Management Company is seeking a Resident Services Coordinator in its State Elderly/Disabled housing until January 31, 2019. Annual ments and ordering parts and materials. Please send resume to: New Haven, CT. Part time- 16 hrs/wk. Must have experience working w/ senior and disManager, Confidential, P O Box 388, Guilford CT 06437.

Townhouse, BA,(two3BR, 1 level , 1BA income limit2BR is $50,350 (one person) &1.5 $57,550 people).

In- H.R. abled community. Social Services background preferred. Please call (860) 951-9411 x238 ********An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer********** terestedAll parties may pick up an application at the Coventry Housing new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 for inquiries.

Old Saybrook, CT Authority, 1630 Main highways, St., Coventry, CT,bus or have mailed. Comnear stopone & shopping center (4 Buildings, 17 Units) pleted applications must be post marked or hand delivered no later Executive Director Position Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258 than January 31, 2019.

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project For more information call 860-742-5518.

NEW HAVEN

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT

Common Ground High School, Urban Farm & Environmental is seeking BIDS FOR MAINTENANCE UNIFORMS. Bidding docuEducation Center is looking its next Executive Director:Housing, A CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s NewforConstruction, Wood Framed, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Cast- at www.norwalkha.org under the ments can be viewed and printed dynamic, proven organizational leader who shares our roots-deep Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday,commitment August 20, 2016to 1:30Business section, RFP/RFQ Norwalk Housing is an Equal Opportunity environmental and food justice, active, authentic 3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. Flooring, Painting,For Division 10 Specialties, Appliances,Employer.

Residential Casework, learning, inclusive, equitable community. a detailed job (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64and Brewster Adam Bovilsky, Executive Director. description and how to apply, please visit http://commongroundct.

Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection.

St. New Haven, CT Notice of Public Hearing org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Common-Ground-ExecutiveThis contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Director-job-posting HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY The Bristol Housing Authority is developing its 2019-2023 Agency Audit Services Plan in compliance with the HUD Quality Housing and Work ReBid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 RFP No. P18002 sponsibility Act of 1998. A Public Hearing will be held on February Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 15,Sealed 2019 atbids 3:00 are p.m.invited at Gaylord Community Hall located

by Towers the Housing Authority of the Town of SeymourFT Assistant Building Official Ms. Devin Marra, Director of Procurement Project documents available via ftp link below: at 55 Gaylord Street, Bristol, CT. Telephone: 203-744-2500 x141 CONTACT PERSON $38.03 hourly until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage E-Mail: dmarra@hacdct.org

For details and how to apply, go to www.bloomfieldct.org.

Seymour,isCT 06483forforreview Concrete Sidewalk RepairsHousand Replacement at the Information available and inspection at Bristol Pre-employment drug testing.

HOW TO OBTAIN THE RFP Contact Ms. Devin Marra, via e-mail.

Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living 26 Smith ing Authority, 164 Jerome Ave., Bristol, CTFacility, during hours M/W/FStreet Seymour.

AA/EOE DOCUMENTS: Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com 8:30a-4:30p, Tues. 8:30a-1:00p, Thurs. 1:00-4:30p.

HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Housing Authority of the City of Danbury Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN The Town of East Haven is currently accepting applicaAA/EEO EMPLOYER Envelope Must be Marked: RFP No. P18002 Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

For more information call 860-742-5518.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY Town of Bloomfield

The Housing Authority of the City of Norwalk, CT

Laborer:

tions for the position of Laborer in its Public Works Department. Qualified candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED, some experiis seeking BIDS FOR (1) F250 pickup truck or equivalent, (1) ence in heavy manual labor and CDL. Current base pay for this position Bidding are available Seymour Authority OfTransit Cargodocuments Van or equivalent and (2) from Transitthe Connect VansHousing or is $40.782/year.

The application is available at http://www.townofeastEquivalent.

Bidding documents can be viewed and printed at www. fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579. havenct.org/civil-service-commission/pages/job-notices-and-tests or The norwalkha.org under the Business section, RFP/RFQ. Norwalk Office of the Mayor, 250 Main Street, East Haven CT. The Town of East Haven is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Females, Veterans Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Adam Boand Handicapped TheExecutive Housing Director Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids,are to encouraged to apply. vilsky,

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

16

Audit Services

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

January 15, 2019 at 10:00 AM (EST)

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

INNER-CITY July 2016 -- August THE INNER-CITY NEWS - NEWS December 1927, , 2018 December 2018 02, 25, 2016

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

NOTICE

Request for Proposals

Youth Development Program Services- Eastview and Fairhaven

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm city Communities is HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus the New Haven Housing Authority, currently seeking Proposals for House Youthand Development Program Services is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this develat Eastview and Fairhaven. A complete copy of the requirement may opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apbeply. obtained from Elm Vendor Collaboration PortalMonday https://nePre-applications will beCity’s available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Ju;y whavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have beginning on Monday, November 2018 at 3:00 will PMbe mailied upon rebeen received at the offices of HOME26, INC. Applications quest 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 ELM CITY COMMUNITIES Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Request for Proposals

Master Lease Agreement Services NOTICIA TheVALENTINA Housing Authority of the DE City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City ComMACRI VIVIENDAS ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES munities is currently seeking Proposals for Master Lease Agreement HOME INC, nombre de copy la Columbus House y de la New Haven Authority,from está Services.

A en complete of the requirement may Housing be obtained aceptando para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo Elm City’spre-solicitudes Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos blestonesystems.com/gateway máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 beginning on Monday, November 26, 2018 at 3:00PM. 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 duranteCopy esas & horas.Pre-solicitudes remitirse Scale House Operator , Data Entry, Print, Scan Documents.deberán Working knowl-

a las de HOME en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, NewaHaven , CT 06510 . edge of oficinas Haz. Waste Regs., INC & Manifests.

DOT & OSHA certifi cation +. Forward resumes to RED Technologies, LLC Fax 860-218-2433; or Email to HR@redtechllc.com RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

CJR Now Hiring NEW HAVEN Human Service Positions

242-258 Fairmont Ave 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA

Residential Youth Mentor (Waterbury) FT – This position will provide direct care, supervision and assistance, and act as a role model reinforcing the adolescent’s individualized treatment plan. In addition, the Youth Mentor will Allgroups new as apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close under to I-91 I-95 facilitate appropriate and will conduct therapeutic programming the&supervision highways, near bus stop must & shopping center of the Rehabilitation Therapist.

The Youth Mentor be sensitive to unique issues such as mental health, suicide andallowed. contraband.

Pet under 40lb Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258 Transportation Assistant (Danbury, Torrington, Meriden, New London) FT - Provides transportation for youth and families to and from the LYNC program. Primarily CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s group travelProgram. pickingThis upismultiple youth within a common The Transportation AsCertificate a 10 month program designed to assistdestination. in the intellectual formation of Candidates sistant plays atokey in sustaining engagement, attendance, and ultimately in response the role Church’s Ministry needs.

The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday,program August 20,completion 2016 1:30Contact: Chairman, Deacon Davis,reliable, M.S., B.S.consistent transportation. of 3:30 youth and families who mayJoe notJ.have (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster

St. New Haven, Educational andCT vocational Coach (Meriden/New London) FT – The Educational and Vocational Coach plays an important role in the youth’s development of skills and abilities allowing them to achieve educational and career goals leading to future success. The Coach helps youth achieve goals, overcome barriers, and become more independent.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Service specialist (Meriden/New London) FTSealed – The Service Specialist hasby twothe primary roles; Authority one as Resource Specialist with bids are invited Housing of the Townconnecting of Seymour service providers and maintaining a list of all community resources from each town in the catchuntil 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, ment area and the second as Intervention Specialist facilitating cognitive-behavioral and Life Seymour, 06483 Skills groups toCT youth. . for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the

Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

Clinician (Meriden/New London and Danbury/Torrington) FT – The Clinician provides limited, crisis management-oriented, individual and/or family therapy, needed conference while the youth andbe family an appointment withOffice a qualifi28 ed provider A aspre-bid will heldareatawaiting the Housing Authority Smith in their community to stabilize the family during emergencies or urgent circumstances.

Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

CJR offers a competitive salary and benefits package – EOE Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority OfFor full position descriptions and to apply go to: fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579. www.ctjuniorrepublic.org

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

Field Engineer

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for an Information Technology Analyst 1 position, a Municipal Assessment Professional position and a Research Analyst position.

BA/BS in Civil Engineering or Construction Management.

2-5 yrs. experience. OSHA Certified.

Proficient in reading contract plans and specifications.

Resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 10 Northwood Dr., Bloomfield, CT 06002; Fax 860.218.2433; Email resumes to info@redtechllc.com. RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

Project Manager Environmental Remediation Division

For information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions, please visit https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT and click on:

3-5 years exp. and Bachelor’s Degree, 40-Hr. Hazwoper Training Req. Forward resumes to RED Technologies, LLC,

Information Technology Analyst 1 (40 Hour) Recruitment #180815-7603FD-001

RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

Municipal Assessment Professional Recruitment #180817-5864AR-001 Research Analyst Recruitment #180822-6855AR-001 The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

Administrative Assistant

10 Northwood Dr., Bloomfield, CT 06002;

Fax 860.218.2433; or Email to HR@redtechllc.com

Must have DOT Construction Exp. Involves traveling to Job Site for record keeping.

Reliable transportation a must. NO PHONE CALLS EMAIL RESUME TO michelle@occllc.com EOE/AA Females and Minorities are encouraged to apply

Project Manager

InvitationDivision to Bid: Environmental Remediation nd 2 Notice

3-5 years exp. and Bachelor’s Degree, 40-Hr. Hazwoper Training Req. Forward resumes to RED Technologies, LLC, 10 Northwood Dr., Bloomfield, CTOld 06002; Fax 860.218.2433; or Saybrook, CT Email to HR@redtechllc.com RED(4Technologies, LLC is an EOE. Buildings, 17 Units)

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Common Ground High School

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: Dan Peterson Phone: 860- 243-2300 email: dpeterson@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:

is looking for a Part Time After-School Recreations Programmer.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition,Tractor Site-work,Trailer Cast- Driver for Heavy & Highway ConFor job details and how to apply, please visit http://commonstruction Equipment. Must have a CDL License, in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, groundct.org/2018/08/common-ground-seeks-a-part-time-afterclean driving record, capable of operating heavy Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, school-recreations-programmer/

Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. equipment; be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY. Listing: Transportation - Immediate Openingcompliance requirements.

This contract is subject toAssistant state set-aside and contract

We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

High Volume petroleum oil company is seeking a full time TransContact Dana at 860-243-2300.

Bidtime Extended, Due6:00AM. Date: August 5, 2016 portation Assistant. Work begins at Previous peEmail: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com troleum oil, retail or commercial dispatching experience a plus.

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply MUST possess excellent attention to detail,available ability tovia manage Project documents ftp linkmulbelow: Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer tiple projects, excel proficiency and good computer skills required. http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage Send resume to: Human Resource Dept., PO Box 388, Guilford, CT 06437. ********An Affi rmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer********** 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 Large CT Fence & Guardrail Contractor is looking Scale House Operator, Data Entry, Print,EMPLOYER Copy & Scan DocuAA/EEO for experienced, responsible commercial and resiments. Working knowledge of Haz. Waste Regs., & Manifests. dential fence erectors and installers on a subcontracDOT & OSHA certification a +. Forward resumes to RED Techtor basis. Earn from $750 to $2,000 per day. Email nologies, LLC Fax 860-218-2433; or Email to HR@redtechllc.com resume to pking@atlasoutdoor.com AA/EOE RED Technologies, LLC is an EOE.

FENCE ERECTING SUBCONTRACTORS

17

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

The College Football Regular Season Is Over, Kyler Murray Won The Heisman!

by Anthony Scott, ICN Sports

Now we have to wait until the holiday season for the bowl games. The playoff semifinals are the big draw, but there are a handful of other interesting bowls as well. Here I will analyze/predict some of the top ones, while I will break down some of the lesser ones next week. There are like a million bowls, so I cannot write about all of them in one article.

The playoff semifinals are; #2 Clemson vs. #3 Notre Dame, and #1 Alabama vs. #4 Oklahoma. Georgia and OSU just missed the cut. #1 Alabama vs. #4 Oklahoma (Orange Bowl): I expect the Tide to roll in this one. Had Jalen Hurts transferred this past offseason, the Tua Tagovailoa injury would be the top story in college football. TT is who many thought should have won the Heisman, and his big left arm has elevated the Bama offense to new heights. Hurts lost his job for a reason, but his experience and fight make him a more than capable backup. His performance against Georgia in the SEC title game was spectacular. Tua is expected to play, so the Tide are fine either way. Oklahoma has an awful defense, so the Bama receiver trio of Jerry Jeudy, Jaylen Waddle and Henry Ruggs should have a field day. They’ve combined for 2630 yards on the year. Kyler Murray is a dual threat star, but Bama is a way better team from top to bottom. Even if Murray has success early, I expect Saban to make the proper halftime adjustments.

Their relentless defense will ultimately take over the game, sooner or later.

Bama wins 45-28. #2 Clemson vs. #3 Notre Dame (Cotton Bowl): In this game, the key is going to be how freshmen QB Trevor Lawrence plays against the ND defense. Lawrence was extremely impressive this year, throwing for 2606 yards, 24 touchdowns and four picks. One slight knock could be his completion percentage of 65%.

This ranks 24th in the nation, behind the elites like Kyler Murray, Dwayne Haskins, and his counterpart Ian Book.

This is splitting hairs, however. Though Clemson dominated its opponents, most of their wins came against a weak ACC schedule. Their toughest conference wins were against Syracuse and Boston College. They dominated Pitt in the conference championship, but the Panthers were 7-5 coming in. Notre Dame does a lot of things well, like having the ninth best scoring defense in the league, and Book’s effectiveness throwing the football. Dexter Williams is a top flight running back as well. ND matches up well, but their biggest challenge will be stopping Clemson RB Travis Etienne, who dominated this year with 1463 yards and 21 TDs. As much as they may be untested against top teams, their offense has the ability to score in a hurry. If Lawrence and Etienne are clicking, this game

Alabama Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated.

Oklahoma photo credit: by Brett Deering/Getty Images)

will be over quickly. ND needs to come out firing, and get early defensive stops.

If they can seize momentum early, Clemson may crumble. If not, the Irish will be playing catch-up all day. Clemson wins 35-21. #9 Washington vs. #6 Ohio State (Rose Bowl): This game opened with OSU as a four point favorite, but the Urban Meyer retirement news has raised their odds.

The Buckeyes have been red hot after an iffy start, and QB Dwayne Haskins has been extremely impressive. He led the nation in passing yards and TDs, and he did it against some top level Big 10 defenses. Michigan had the #1 ranked in the country when Haskins put 396 yards and six TDs on them, as well as registering a completion to nine different targets. Unlike the aforementioned Clemson, OSU has beaten some top level competition. Their two blemishes were a bad 49-20 loss to Purdue, and a 52-51

win against Maryland where their defense embarrassed itself. With that said, Washington is going to have their hands full. The Huskies significantly underachieved after starting the season ranked sixth. Senior QB Jake Browning was a disappointment last year after throwing 43 TDs as a sophomore, and he was worse this year. RB Myles Gaskin has been a beast, and he may be the only way the Huskies have any chance. His 1147 rushing yards ranks 21st in the country.

Washington is scrappy, and playing far better as of late. But considering how well OSU and Haskins are playing now, Washington will most likely be overmatched in this one. OSU wins 40-28. #15 Texas vs. #5 Georgia (Sugar Bowl): Georgia has two losses in an elite SEC, Texas has four in the decent Big 12.

That kind of sums up the difference right there. Texas has many impressive moments, including their effort in a 39-

18

27 loss to Oklahoma. They have been scrappy all year, but the Horns have not had to face a defense on the same level as Georgia. Also, they have struggled to slow down elite running teams, so Georgia’s one-two punch of D’Andre Swift and Elijah Holyfield should be fine. The experience of Jake Fromm and their SEC-forged defense makes Georgia the heavy favorite here. Keep in mind however, Texas coach Tom Herman has nine wins as an underdog. If Georgia takes the Horns lightly, this game could be interesting. Georgia wins 31-24. #11 LSU vs. #8 UCF (Fiesta Bowl): UCF famously raised a national championship banner after going undefeated last year, only to further point out how weak their conference is. The Knights will never have a chance at the playoff as long as they remain in the AAC, but a second consecutive bowl win against a SEC teams would be a huge reputation booster (they beat Auburn in the Peach Bowl last year). It is difficult to predict how well UCF will play; star QB McKenzie Milton is injured, but backup Darriel Mack looked great in the AAC championship game. Sophomore RB Greg McCrae has been awesome after a slow start, averaging nine yards per carry over the course of the year. LSU has a stout SEC tested defense, but their offense needs to start strong for them to win. LSU has a good offense, but not an elite one in the modern high flying NCAA. Starting QB Joe Burrow only surpassed 300 yards once this year. On paper, UCF has the advantage due to their explosive offense, which averages points per game. I am being swayed by SEC bias however, as I am sure many are. LSU is battle tested against some of the best defenses in the country, so I think they win an extremely close game.

As good as the Knights are, the slight drop-off due to the QB situation may be too much to overcome. LSU wins 45-42.

Con’t from page 03

Homeless

ing status; e) The Right to Personal Property and Privacy. The right to protection of personal property includes: 1) the right to a reasonable expectation of privacy in his or her personal property to the same extent as personal property in a permanent residence; and 2) the preservation and safeguarding of un-housed peoples’ property, including personal identification and records, including documentation of government benefits, legal proceedings, and familial records; f) The Right to Personal Safety. The right to personal safety, which shall include protection from violence based upon housing status and effective law enforcement response to such incidents; 2) the right to temporary shelter during extreme (hot or cold) weather; and 3) the right for families to stay together in shelters. g) The Right to Sit. The right to sit, rest or sleep in temporary shelter, such as any legallyparked motor or recreational vehicle or a self-erected shelter (e.g., a tent), as permitted by law, for the purpose of immediate survival of persons, and their pets, without harassment by law enforcement officers or others; and 2) the right to reasonable notice before encampments illegally created are swept. h) The Right to Social Exchange. The right to give and accept food, beverages, and shelter, in public spaces or elsewhere (with permit, as others are required, where applicable), and to connect persons experiencing homelessness with organizations that provide shelter or transitional housing and social services, such as mental health or substance abuse counseling, medical care, and employment assistance. The right also to panhandle in public spaces, and to communicate to others in other reasonable ways for other similar purposes. i) The Right to Equal Treatment. The right to equal treatment under the law by all New Haven municipal agencies, without discrimination on the basis of housing status or source of income, and equal protection of the laws and due process by law enforcement and prosecuting agencies and the courts; j) The Right to Housing Fairness. The right to obtain housing free from discrimination including based on housing status, source of income, arrest record, conviction, or lack of a fixed or permanent mailing address; k) The Right to Housing. The right to safe and affordable emergency and/or transitional shelter and permanent housing for people experiencing homelessness, because housing is a basic human right, as stated in Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services,and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.”

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

JORGENSEN

Center for the Performing Arts jorgensen.uconn.edu | 860-486-4226

Only 30 minutes from Hartford Gladys Knight

ERTH’S PREHISTORIC AQUARIUM ADVENTURE Sun, Feb 10, 2 pm

Amazing visual experience connecting young audiences to the science of paleontology

GLADYS KNIGHT Sat, Feb 16, 8 pm Cabaret

Motown legend and “Empress of Soul”

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK Wed, Feb 20, 7:30 pm

Internationally renowned women’s vocal ensemble, spanning the sound and spirit of the African Diaspora

COMPAGNIA TPO: COLORS Sat, Mar 16, 2 & 4 pm

A magical hands-on examination of color perception for kids of all ages

@JorgensenUConn

19

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - December 19, 2018 - December 25, 2018

IT’S NOT THE

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The best connections have always been wireless, and you can stay connected this season with Xfinity. Watch Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video, right on your TV with X1. Even stream your holiday favorites on any device with the Xfinity Stream app — all powered by the best WiFi experience. Plus, when you switch to Xfinity Mobile, you can save hundreds. That’s how Xfinity makes the holidays simple, easy, awesome.

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Offer ends 1/13/19. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to the Standard Triple Play. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services (other than Xfinity Mobile) are canceled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $10.00/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $8.25/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after agreement term. After agreement term or DVR promotion, or if any service is canceled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast’s charge for DVR service is $10.00/mo. (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Limited Basic service subscription required to receive other levels of service. Voice: If there is a power outage or network issue, calling, including calls to 911, may be unavailable. Mobile: New Xfinity Internet customers limited to up to two lines pending activation of Internet service. Netflix® streaming membership required.

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11/27/18 6:12 PM