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Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024

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Gender-Affirming "Shopping Spree" Sends New Haven Youth Back To School In Style

By Abiba Biao, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

After making it through the first day of school last week, Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School students Hazel and Mia Rivera wanted some fresh new fits.

So they went to the best place they knew for a serious back-to-school haul: the New Haven Pride Center. In the end, they left with bags full of plushies, shoes, jackets, and dresses, ready to make the school their runway this year.

Saturday afternoon, the two were attendees at thePride Center’s second annual Gender Affirming Back to School Shopping Spree, or GABSSS, an event offering clothing and school supplies for students and families alike. It doubled as a soft kick off to New Haven Pride, which continues with a drag queen story hour at Mitchell Library this Wednesday and Pride block party this Saturday. More information about those is available here.

After a successful event last year, GABSSS returned by popular demand—and fielded a crowd throughout the afternoon. For event co-organizers Ta’LannaMonique

“T’Mo” Lawson-Dickerson and Orion Arena, it was a way to fill a growing need among queer and trans youth for gender-affirming clothing items like bras, ties, binders, skirts and dresses, as well as standard school supplies like folders and backpacks.

It’s not just that the cost of clothes adds up, both explained: some young people don’t have reliable access to clothes that make them feel fully themselves. According to the Trevor Project’s 2020 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, LGBTQ+ youth with at least one genderaffirming space were 35 percent less likely to experience self-harm or suicidality.

“Nobody does a back-to-school event for queer young people, and that could look very different, especially if their parents don't support who they are,” Lawson-Dickerson said. “If you don't have that support, this is a place that's a safe place for folks to go so they can buy —well, get, for free, really—any clothes that they want that affirms who they are, their gender, how they represent.”

For Arena, the Pride Center is not only a place where people can be themselves through fashion—it’s also a site where people can form lasting connections, with opportunities for camaraderie and community building. Throughout the event, Arena served as a stylist, guiding people towards statement pieces and chatting with attendees about their unique aesthetics.

“I just feel like it's really nice to connect with people in the community that do come here to get the clothes and stuff and just like affirming queer youth and their identities and just making them feel like they matter, and that they're seen,” he said.

The amount of supplies and goods took about a month to accrue, and came largely by donation. Laptop cases, bookbags, and folders were all in popular demand, as were clothing items.

In its second year, GABSSS grew exponentially, with more capacity for goods and people than it did last year. Lawson-Dick-

erson said part of that is owing to the Center’s new location: last year at this time, it was still in a basement office at 54 Orange St. And yet, “we still don't have enough space,” Lawson-Dickerson added.

Thanks to Lawson-Dickerson and Arena, this year also included personalized stylists, giving it the feel of a spunky and curated shopping event.

With GABSSS a week before New Haven Pride in early September, Lawson-Dickerson envisions the school giveaway as a “mini Pride event” next year and precursor to their September festivities. They hope to include local artists and tables down the block.

As Darnell Ray inspected the array of ties on the table, Naomi Jones was there to lend a helping hand. Jones has had a longstanding interest in fashion since middle school and has been modeling since she was 15. When she heard about GABSSS, she decided to volunteer as a stylist to kill some time and help people.

“I like helping people feel their best and look stylish,” she said. “When you feel your best, you look your best.”

For Ray, a self-described “tie person,” feeling his best meant having multiple pairs of ties. Opting for casual outfits, Ray selected a few pairs of ties and t-shirts to take home. With this being his first GABSSS, Ray encouraged others to attend as well. “Come in, check it out and see what they have to offer,” he said.

Perusing the notebook section was mom Katherine Pastrana with her three daughters Nataliah, Sofia, and Mayah. The mother of four learned about GRABSSS through her sister in law, prompting her visit to the Pride Center for the first time.

Pastrana and her family more recently moved to New Haven from West Haven, and she is now enrolling her children in New Haven Public Schools. While the transition is exciting, Pastrana said she still worries, hoping that her kids are ac-

climated and feel comfortable at their new schools.

“I’m hoping it goes well for them,” she said. “Kids could be rough.”

In the meantime, her daughters ran through the aisles selecting their supplies and toys to venture into their classrooms. “Last year I didn't have a lot of stuff, and I kept losing Sharpies and highlighters, so I decided to come here to get more stuff,” Mayah said. Now a fourth grader, Mayah said she was “nervous” starting school because she doesn’t know her multiplication tables.

Her sister Nataliah, on the other hand, had no fears about entering the second grade. Her plan: be prepared with lots of toys. “I came here for the fidget [toys] and the stickers!” Nataliah exclaimed, holding up a purple slinky.

Not only did the event serve as a way for Pastrana to get supplies for her daughters: she also found an outlet to donate old supplies and clothes for next year. That's a secondary part of GABSSS' mission and the Center's year-round clothing closet: secondhand finds are better for the planet. “They’re growing out of stuff, I’m getting rid of stuff, and I hate to throw things away,” she said. “I don’t know a lot of people out here to give it to, so I mean, it would be awesome to be able to donate.”

Hazel showing off her flower necklace which she immediately wore after finding and Mia showing their newfound burgundy Rolodex wallet.

Hazel and Mia, both 15, are frequent faces at the Pride Center. The two Co-Op students come there not just to hang out, but also to volunteer and get community service hours. A junior and sophomore respectively, they’re now getting into thrifting and sustainable fashion: Mia’s favorite thrift store is Plato’s Closet.

The two also have very different fashion tastes. Hazel cycles through goth, alternative, Y2K fashion, and other styles, constantly experimenting with new ways to present herself. In comparison, Mia tailors their outfits based on their gender expression, gauging how masculine or feminine they feel.

“Fashion is just a really good way to express emotions for me,” Hazel said. For Mia, the Pride Center has also been an important and gender-affirming space. After “scrapping up [the] money” to buy a binder off Amazon, they continuously encountered difficulties with size and price. It wasn’t until their second visit to the Pride Center that they found a binder that matched their size and was made of comfortable material.

Throughout their journey of discovering their gender identity, they emphasized the importance of having support structure and familial help.

“I personally am lucky enough to have like, especially people in my household [who] are understanding,” they said. “…It's really all just about like picking and choosing, your chosen family and who you want to surround yourself with.”

Hazel and Mia Rivera. Abiba Biao Photos.

Event organizers Ta’LannaMonique “T’Mo” Lawson-Dickerson and Orion Arena.

Newly minted New Haven Public Schools students Nataliah, Sofia, and Mayah.

Sisters’ Journey September

Survivor of the month Ginne-Rae Clay

In December 2018, while performing a self-breast exam, I felt a lump in my left breast. This was not normal because I regularly conduct self-breast exams and try to stay in tune with my body overall. This lump immediately concerned me and in my head I heard my sister say, “When was the last time you had a mammogram?”

I did not have a good feeling about this. I immediately called my primary care physician because I knew he would see me immediately and I really needed a medical professional to tell me something ASAP.

My primary care physician referred me to another doctor who ordered a mammogram. There were several glitches. Based on my mammogram they wanted me to have a biopsy in the area seen on the film. I went in for the biopsy, and again there were glitches that resulted in delays.

I was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in my left breast in April 2019. After processing this diagnosis, conducting research, and immediately talking with my support network, I was referred by a friend and breast cancer survivor to her doctor at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for a second opinion. I received confirmation in May 2019, that I had Stage 4 breast cancer.

My treatment at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute was swift, comprehensive and consistent with what they told me regarding treatment. As part of my treatment, I opted to participate in several clinical trials to assist with medical research that would inform my family (daughters, sisters and granddaughters) and help provide medical information for other Black women. I wanted my family to have knowledge of our medical history and fully understand this disease. Coincidentally, it was at Dana Farber that I

learned that I also had parathyroid tumors that needed to be removed.

In December 2019, I underwent surgery to remove the lemon-sized lump from my breast. Out of caution and to avoid a potential second surgery, rather than removing and doing a biopsy of one or two lymph nodes, all were removed from my left arm and tested. During that surgery, it was discovered that the cancer had spread to lymph

nodes in my left arm as 2 lymph nodes tested positive for cancer.

My treatment plan now had to change. I knew I was scheduled to be treated with radiation after surgery. However, once cancer was discovered in my lymph nodes, I would need both chemotherapy and radiation, which started in January 2020 and July 2020 respectively.

I elected to have my treatments at the

Smilow Cancer Hospital in my home state of CT. My chemotherapy treatment consisted of a weekly regiment, followed by several weeks of daily radiation.

I was 56 years old when I received the news of my cancer. As of August 2024, I will be cancer free and in my fourth year in remission.

First and foremost, I am thankful to God for letting me know that this journey was assigned to me and that I did not need to worry. I would be fine, but I needed to take this journey. I am thankful for my family, especially my three children Dale, Quinci-Rae, and Jacqueline for their unwavering and no-nonsense, protective support. I am blessed to have my grandson Donovan, who at the young age of 10, displayed strength, care, kindness, concern and patience of a person three times his age. Never once did he complain. He jumped in and made sure it was about me. My sister Gina was with me every step of the way, even though COVID prevented her from being with me in person. She encouraged me to stay positive and follow every order given by the doctors. With the love of my family, I was never alone. I had roundthe clock support, companionship and love. I wanted for nothing.

I am thankful for my pastor Kristopher Reese and my church family at Grace Baptist Church in Waterbury, who lifted me in prayer often and out loud; for my village, for prepared meals, flowers, gift cards, gift baskets, cards, phone calls, text messages, emails, window visits, and words of encouragement; but most of all I am thankful for them telling me and showing me that I am loved; and finally for Sam, a friend of my daughters who made sure my flowers were always fresh!

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Ginne-Rae Clay

Manufacturing Lab Cut From Cross

by MAYA MCFADDEN

The city’s public school district has scrapped plans to build a new manufacturing pathway lab at Wilbur Cross High School over concerns around contractor timeline and building space, and will be partnering instead with a Fair Haven manufacturing training nonprofit.

ABM Executive Director of Facilities Jamar Alleyne, whose firm works with New Haven Public Schools (NHPS), provided that update and change of plans during Tuesday’s latest Board of Education Finance and Operations Committee meeting.

Alleyne reported that Milestone Construction Services had been contracted to do a two-fold project for NHPS, building out manufacturing labs at Wilbur Cross High School and Hillhouse High School. However, he said, due to timeline concerns and struggles with spatial needs, the plans for the Cross lab have been cut. The Cross portion of the project came at a cost of $1,014,499. That amount of money will now be credited back to NHPS.

School leaders clarified on Tuesday that Cross will still offer its manufacturing pathway to students, but through a partnership with Fair Haven’s Manufacturing and Community Technical Hub (MATCH). An agreement costing

$84,155 with MATCH was also approved during Tuesday’s meeting.

All of this comes as the Elicker administration and NHPS are also figuring how

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to use one-time federal pandemic relief aid to build out a vocational training hub for public school students that could offer tracks in building, manufacturing, tech-

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

Date: Monday, September 16, 2024

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nology, health, and transportation.

An additional $124,967.97 credit from Milestone will also be returned from the Hillhouse portion of the project, due to less electrical work needed than initially arranged. The Tuesday change order also noted additions to the Hillhouse project scope related to replacing additional flooring, clearing drainage lines, and increased work needed in the compressor room.

After all of those credits and additions are taken into account for both the scrapped Cross program and the changed Hillhouse work, NHPS will receive a total credit of $1,080,639.90. That funding will be returned to the district’s ARPA ESSER account, a pot of funds stemming from a one-time flood of federal pandemic-relief aid.

The space once designated for Cross’s manufacturing lab, meanwhile, will continue to host its current use, which is the school’s auto shop.

The change order will next go to the full board for approval.

When explaining the decision to drop the Cross in-school manufacturing lab, NHPS Supt. Madeline Negrón told the committee on Tuesday, “It was going to have a significant impact on the auto shop program, which again has been longstanding, and it would’ve had an impact

CAREER CONQUER YOUR YOU CAN

to that programming. It was a tough decision but I think the best decision on how we can maintain both programs, manufacturing and auto shop, while still giving our students the best experience that they need as they are getting to their junior and senior years.”

The new MATCH partnership, meanwhile, will allow juniors and seniors to gain hands-on manufacturing skills at MATCH’s 25,000 square foot lab in Fair Haven and from its instructors. Students will gain access to machines that Hillhouse’s lab has not yet secured, like drill presses. The MATCH agreement also includes training for three NHPS staffers to learn manufacturing instruction.

The district has been working for the past three years to build out the manufacturing labs, Science Department Supervisor Robert McCain told the committee Tuesday. He added that the year-long partnership with MATCH will allow the district to continue its work providing students with manufacturing opportunities despite not yet having an in-district lab. Alleyne estimated Tuesday that Hillhouse’s lab will be completed by Dec. 1. He added that the only expended funds that NHPS spent on the now-cut Cross project were for the design process.

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LAURA GLESBY FILE PHOTO NHPS sixth graders at work, building a robot at Floyd Little Athletic Center. This work won't be done at Wilbur Cross.

September 17, 2024

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

Arrest Made In Stabbing Homicide

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

A dispute between a 26-year-old New Havener and his ex-girlfriend’s uncle led to a fatal afternoon stabbing on Orchard Street — and, two months later, to the fourth homicide arrest out of eight murders so far this year.

‘Black Reel Awards’ (Outstanding Actress

to visit his niece.

wood Critics Association TV Awards’ (Best Actress in a Limited Series, Anthropology Series or Television Movie), the ‘Gotham Awards’ (Outstanding Performance in New Series), the ‘Hollywood Critics Association TV Awards’ (TV Breakout Star), and the ‘Critics Choice Television Awards’ (Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Movie), all for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in the 2021 TV series ‘The Underground Railroad.’

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

That 26-year-old New Havener, Shamar Gibson, was stabbed and killed on Saturday, July 6, at around 2:12 p.m. on the sidewalk of Orchard Street near Henry Street.

At a Thursday morning press conference at 1 Union Ave., Police Chief Karl Jacobson, Lt. Pedro Colon, and a handful of fellow officers and detectives stood alongside a dozen of Gibson’s family members and friends to announce the arrest of the man police have accused of killing Gibson, a 36-year-old New Havener named Thomas Norfleet.

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

Colon and Jacobson said that Norfleet was detained in late July on a parole violation, then was arrested and charged on Aug. 2 for murdering Gibson. He hasn’t yet entered a plea to the felony murder charge, and is currently being held on a $1.5 million bond.

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

He then told police he had left the area after visiting his niece. But, upon further questioning and the presentation of camera footage showing otherwise, Norfleet reported told the detectives, “Fuck it. Give me a second. I already know. Leave my niece out of this.” He spoke about problems Gibson and his niece had been having, and acknowledged that he and Gibson were going to fight that day.

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

Norfleet claimed Gibson “ran” towards him, and he responded by swinging at him. “I fucking forgot I had a knife in my fucking hand so yeah I stabbed him,” Norfleet confessed. He said he thought he had stabbed Gibson twice.

During Thursday’s press conference, Colon said that Gibson had tried to get around Norfleet, and that Norfleet then stabbed him “repeatedly.”

In 2022, Mbedu was nominated for the ‘Independent Spirit Awards (Best Female Performance in a New Scripted Series), for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in the 2021 television series ‘The Underground Railroad.’ She won the ‘Critics Choice Television Awards’ for ‘Best Actress in a Miniseries or Television Movie’ for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in ‘The Underground Railroad.’

Gibson’s brother, James Lamar Jackson, spoke up on behalf of the family at Thursday’s presser. “He was always funny, always making everyone laugh,” Jackson said about his late brother. He said Gibson will live on through the memories and love of his family members.

In her keynote speech at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit, Thuso Mbedu tearfully spoke of how she overcame the loss of her dear parents, grandmother, and aunt. But her role in Amanda Lane’s ‘IS’THUNZI’ gradually renewed her hope in life.

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

The 14-page arrest warrant affidavit in Norfleet’s case, written on July 31 by New Haven Police Department (NHPD) Det. Carmelo Rivera, details the video surveillance, license plate tracking, and witness interviews that led to Norfleet’s arrest. Included in that detailing of the investigation is a writeup about an interview Rivera and Det. Martin Podsiad did with Norfleet on July 11 at the parole office at 920 Grand Ave.

Jacobson commended the family members for coming out to Thursday’s press conference. “We hate to do this too much,” he said about murder-related press conferences.

He also lauded city police officers for “working extremely hard” while “shorthanded, understaffed,” to make arrests like these.

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

During that interview, Norfleet at first told detectives he couldn’t remember what he did on Saturday, July 6. He said he wasn’t working that day at his job as a Lyft driver. He then said he had been hanging out with some friends, but didn’t want to name them “due to the fact it could cause a parole violation.”

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

Police then showed him a photo of a man pictured on Orchard Street the day of the fatal stabbing, and Norfleet identified himself as that man. He said he had been going

He said that there have been eight homicides so far this year, compared to 17 at this time last year. He also said that four of those eight homicides have been “closed” — that is, arrests have been made, and another two are close to resulting in arrests.

The city’s latest weekly CompStat report, which runs through the week ending Aug. 26, states that there have been 60 people shot so far this year, compared to 49 at this time last year, an increase of 22 percent. There have also been 116 confirmed gunshots fired so far this year, compared to 195 at this time last year, a 40 percent drop.

“…my world was that blur, until Amanda Lane happened in 2016. The role that Amanda Lane gave me was the difference between life and death for me. Receiving that audition brief, I told myself that I would audition like it was my last audition. I gave it the last of everything that I had, that at the time I got the callback, I had nothing left. I secretly made the decision not to do the callback because I had nothing left to give. But fortunately, I received the callback. So I didn’t do the callback because the role was mine. I had given up. I was in a very dark place at the time, and the character, the role, the opportunity, was a much needed light. And I told myself that I will act as if it was the last character that I will play. And through a great script and an amazing director, I earned two International Emmy Awards for that role…”

THOMAS BREEN PHOTO

Lt. Pedro Colon (right), with Shamar Gibson's brother James Lamar Jackson, at Thursday's presser. by THOMAS BREEN

"Freedom Futures" Brings Liberation To Hotchkiss Street

By Lucy Gellman

Standing before an altar strewn with flowers, Arvia Walker and Juanita Sunday gathered armfuls of chrysanthemums, purple sweetpeas, and eucalyptus, drawing attendees in close as they blanketed Hotchkiss Street. Looking across a sea of glowing faces, Sunday called out to anyone in who identified as Black.

“Are you here? Are you beautiful? Are you breathing?” she began, and dozens of people surrounded her in slow-motion. “Black people, get your flowers.”

Last Friday evening, that magic and memory-making unfolded at the second annual “Freedom Futures,” a Hotchkiss Street block party and celebration of Black Panthers leader Fred Hampton’s 76th birthday. Hampton never lived to see that anniversary: Chicago Police and FBI murdered him in December 1969, when he was just 21 and on the cusp of fatherhood.

A collaboration among Possible Futures, the 6th Dimension Black Futures Institute and Reverence: An Archival Altar, the event paid homage to both Hampton, chairman of the Illinois Black Panther Party from November 1968 until his death, and to all people who fight for Black liberation, from great-grandparents who are no longer living to organizers continuing that work in New Haven today.

“How do we give reverence to folks who are leading our liberation, past, present and future?” asked Sunday, curator and founder of the Black Futures Institute and a peer of Reverence creator and fellow artist Arvia Walker. “The activists, the community leaders, the liberation workers. How do we give reverence and honor all of it?”

As the afternoon gave way to a cool evening, artists, activists and archivists alike answered that question in real time, sometimes gliding from one spot to another as they savored the last Friday of August. Close to Possible Futures’ plant-dotted parking lot, representatives of Fresh New London greeted attendees with Black August and food justice trivia, inviting them to pick up fresh produce in exchange for their correct answers.

On the table, deep-veined collard greens spread out from a basket, nearly touching still-tender curly kale and bushels of fresh basil and carrot greens. Beside a pile of zucchini and cucumbers, pints of baby tomatoes and gherkin cucumbers waited patiently for attendees to come closer. Bunches of beets and chrysanthemums added pops of color.

At the center of it all, co-director Seanice Austin seemed to glow with delight. As a proud resident of New London, she described food justice as a form of activism, from Fresh New London’s raised beds to its growing urban farms.

“I’m so happy to be here!” she said. “It’s important that we commemorate those who fought, who were in prison, for our liberation. We don’t celebrate the sacrifices they made enough.”

While Austin was born and raised in New York, her family originally hailed from Florida and moved North in the 1920s, in

what is now recognized as the Great Migration. In New York and later Connecticut, “we grew up knowing a lot of Black history,” she said. When she became a parent, she knew how important it was to pass that on to her kids.

“This is just who we are and what we do,” she said.

Nearby, Qommunity Founder Ashley LaRue watched attendees cut out magazine pieces, dip brushes into modge-podge and reach for colored pencils and sheets of rainbow scratch paper. All of them were working on vision boards, she explained— collages representing attendees’ hopes and dreams for the future.

On one, a design exploded in bright hues against a matte black background. On another, glossy magazine letters sat alongside salmon-colored construction paper. Hers, only half done, cut through scratch paper to reveal streaks and squiggles of brilliant color. The play of light and dark had seemed fitting for the evening, she said. which straddled both Black August and National Suicide Prevention Month.

“If we’re talking about freedom and the future, isn’t that what we’re aspiring to?” she said.

Around her, the night belonged to Black artists. To a heart-pumpingly good set from Ch’Varda, Hood Hula’s Diamond Tree invited in hoopers of all ages, from young Afghan Hotchkiss Street neighbors to literary luminaries like Kulturally LIT’s IfeMichelle Gardin to Houston resident Mani Olaniyan, a photographer there to visit his friend, The Photobooth LLC’s Bizzie Ruth.

Brenton Shumaker. "It puts a battery in my pack every time I do it," he said of the live screenprinting station.

white cotton shirt, and began screen printing. Before long, a small crowd had gathered to watch him work.

As she watched the scene unfold against a Kehinde Wiley-esque backdrop, Ruth took a rare moment to herself. For a beat, she pulled a camera to her chest, listening to the street. Prince gave that mellifluous yelp over the speaker system, and laughter mingled with the amplified sound. Then the moment was over: the artist Marsh invited members of her family up to the backdrop, and Ruth jumped back into action.

“I just love being out with my community,” she said. “It always feels like I’m home.”

Those words echoed for Marsh (a.k.a. Candyce “Marsh” John), a painter, muralist, tattoo and sketch artist who had transformed a picnic table into a painting station for her signature miniature portraits. As she took a moment to stretch her legs, she talked about the history and legacy of the Panthers with her mom, Dannetta Wiggins. Growing up in New Haven, Wiggins said, she didn’t specifically know about the Panthers. Instead, it was her own mom, who did tenant organizing at the Waverly Townhouses, that she looked up to. Before she knew it as the New Haven Peoples Center, she remembered attending meetings at 37 Howe St. with her mom in the 1980s. It inspired her to take an active role in grassroots activism herself, including in the Hill-based group Survivin' N' Da Hood. “I love community so I think that this is beautiful,” she said. “It’s nice to see it in the neighborhood—it reminds me of when I was a little girl.”

Behind them on Edgewood Avenue, artist Joel Cruz slid open the window to Caribe Soul’s signature black-and-orange truck and began serving fresh, hot empanadas wrapped in wax paper. After offering him a ticket in return—in the spirit of Hampton, everything was free—attendees nibbled the treats as they floated from station to station, leaving newly-finished vision boards and new food justice factoids in their wake.

“Celebrating the Black Panthers is always a good idea,” mused Inner-City News Editor and WNHH Community Radio host Babz Rawls-Ivy as she inspected an installation dedicated to Hampton, complete with quotations and black-and-white photographs.

In one, taken during Hampton’s student years at Proviso East High School, he was still just a baby-faced kid, then a star member of the junior NAACP. In another, he addressed a crowd protesting the trial of the Chicago Seven in October 1969. He was murdered less than a week later.

Down the block, DeadBy5am’s Brenton Shumaker inked up a press, pulled out a

As an alum of the former Ivy Street School (it is now a transitional housing program) and a kid growing up in Newhallville, Rawls-Ivy remembered attending the Panthers’ free breakfast program, which ran out of the Newhallville Teen Lounge at 179 Shelton Ave. in the late 1960s. Decades later, that first touchpoint stayed with her: she’s now become a sort of community fairy godmother, looking out for Newhall-

FreedomFutures2024 - 6 Sophie Singer-Johnson, Seanice Austin, Jenn Viestas and Ellen Rice.

Wiggins and her daughter, Candyce Marsh John.

4 Months Later, Bus Kiosk Still Closed

by Thomas Breen

New signs, new reopen date: Sept. 23. “Closed” signs have been replaced with those reading “We’re Back & Better Than Ever!”

But the bus pass kiosk on the Green is still not open, four months after the state first shuttered the small sales outlet and info center for repairs.

That kiosk is located at the center of the city’s hub-and-spoke bus network, on the northern side of Chapel Street between Temple and Church. It’s been closed for repairs since May 7.

In early July, the Independent spoke with two CTtransit workers who were busy installing new walls, lighting, heating, and air conditioning to the decades old structure. They told this reporter then that they hoped to be done “in a couple weeks.”

As recently as Thursday, the kiosk was covered in signs reading, “Pardon our Progress! Our Sales Outlet Is Closed for renovation!”

As of Monday, those yellow-and-red signs have been taken down and replaced with a dozen posted gray pieces of paper reading, “We’re Back & Better Than Ever! Renovated Sales Outlet is Reopening!” Those new signs show the pledged reopen date of Sept. 23. So. What’s going on?

“The sales outlet booth was temporarily closed earlier this spring for renovations and upgrades,” state Department of Transportation (DOT) spokesperson Josh Morgan told the Independent on Friday. “Those improvements were completed

last month however, it has not yet reopened due to some lingering IT connection issues. CTtransit is working closely with vendors to resolve those, with the hope of reopening the booth soon. We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding while this project has been

ongoing. We look forward to serving New Haven commuters in-person from The Green in the near future.”

He also pointed out that bus riders can pay their for fares with exact change on the bus itself, and they can use the Token Transit smartphone app, which allows for

the purchase of multiple different types of bus passes.

Asked to confirm that the continued closure of this kiosk means there is no place downtown to buy a bus pass in person, Morgan replied with a link to this webpage, which includes a map of all retail

locations and the types of passes sold. That page shows that the only official bus pass sales outlet in New Haven is the closed spot on the Green. It also shows that bus riders can reload their Go CT cards at the CVS on Church Street, buy or reload Go CT Cards at the Walgreens on York Street, or buy 10- or 31-day tickets at the Stop & Shop on Whalley.

Abdullah Livingston and Natalie Averill, meanwhile, waited by the closed kiosk on Monday afternoon for their buses to Dixwell Avenue and Chapel Street, respectively to come. Before these four months worth of repairs, there was an electronic screen posted on the side of the kiosk that provided real-time updates as to when different buses were going to arrive. That screen is no longer there.

“That shit is bullshit. It’s an inconvenience,” Livingston said about the fourmonth closure. He’s taken to buying bus passes online on his phone in the interim, he said. But he doesn’t like having to rely on an electronic device that might run out of battery; he also doesn’t like not having someone in person at the kiosk he can ask questions to about bus schedules.

Averill said the same. She’s a student at Gateway, and said she has a student bus pass that means she doesn’t have to worry about buying passes online or at the soon-to-reopen kiosk. But she does miss having a CTtransit employee present to ask questions to, especially as she suffers from a disability that can make it hard for her to remember bus times, or even to bring her phone with her.

Start Your Bicycles, For 9th Annual Grand Prix

by Thomas Breen

Everyone now knows that New Haven is the pizza capital of the country, Colin Caplan proclaimed at the corner of Chapel and College Streets.

“A little monument” at that same southwestern corner of the Green, meanwhile, “suggests we might be the capital of bicycling as well.”

Caplan highlighted that local transportation history Monday afternoon during a press conference celebrating this Friday’s 9th annual New Haven Grand Prix and accompanying apizza fest.

According to Connecticut Cycling Advancement Program (CCAP) Executive Director Brian Wolfe, whose statewide nonprofit hosts the downtown festivities, this year’s Grand Prix will see roughly 250 cyclists compete across eight different races. The group expects more than 15,000 attendees to show up and watch and cheer and eat lots and lots of pizza, from what Caplan said will be more than 20 piz-

za vendors, among 50 total food vendors, at the event.

“It’s pizza. It’s beer. It’s bikes,” Wolfe said. What could be better?

The Grand Prix will take place on Friday, Sept. 13 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and will see various sections of Chapel, High, and College Streets closed to car traffic from noon to 11 p.m. (Wolfe also said that some of the professional cyclists who participate in Friday’s races will pedal up to speeds of nearly 40 miles per hour. “It’s pretty scary,” he said, and also a lot of fun.)

Caplan, a long-time local pizza booster and historian who helped organize a recent New Haven apizza-celebrating trip to the nation’s capital, uplifted New Haven’s bicycling history during his brief time at the mic on Monday.

The stone monument he was referring to is inlaid among the brick walkway by the sidewalk at the Chapel-College corner on the Green.

The monument was first dedicated in 1998, and honors Pierre Lallement, the French inventor who pulled the first patent for a bicycle in November 1866 while living in New Haven.

Entitled “The Dawn of Cycling,” the monument’s inscription reads, “In July of 1865 PIERRE LALLEMENT left behind his native France for America with the makings of a primitive bicycle in tow. That fall the 22-year-old mechanic settled in Ansonia, about 12 miles west of here. The following April, he rode his invention from that town to this Green where he introduced the art of cycling to the American public. In November, he was awarded a U.S. patent, the world’s first complete specification of a bicycle.”

New Haven is the center of so much “invention, ingenuity, art, commerce, culture,” Caplan said with pride. From the 1860s invention of the bicycle to the 2024 New Haven Grand Prix.

The new haven independent

Thomas Breen photos Colin Caplan: New Haven is the center of so much "invention, ingenuit y, art, commerce, culture."

Thomas Breen photos Frustrated bus riders Natalie Averill and Abdullah Livingston: "It's an inconvenience."

The new haven independent

Ride On! Bike Share Returns

by THOMAS BREEN

One hundred e bikes are now available to rent by the minute at 30 stations across the city to help New Haveners like Osvaldo Fernandez make the active commute from a doctor’s appointment in Fair Haven to soccer practice at Wilbur Cross. A map of available bikes and bike share stations, as viewed Tuesday afternoon on the Ride New Haven app.

Those battery-boosted electric bikes are available through the city’s newly revived bike share program, Ride New Haven.

Two dozen city officials and local cycling advocates gathered at the corner of Blatchley Avenue and Grand Avenue Tuesday afternoon to celebrate the official launch of the program.

Speakers after speaker from parking authority chief Doug Hausladen to city climate czar Steve Winter to East Rock/Fair Haven Alder Caroline Smith to New Haven Climate Movement organizer Amelia Lee to Community Park Enhancement Network (CPEN) founder Doreen Abubakar exhorted the health, climate, and transportation benefits of having short-term bike rentals back in New Haven.

“It establishes healthy habits that get people moving and out of cars” and experiencing the environment and community to which they belong, Lee said. Winter praised the program as providing a much-needed “affordable, convenient, environmentally friendly transportation option” now back in New Haven in an “electrified format.” (Winter also said that Mayor Justin Elicker was looking forward to participating in Tuesday’s

the Fair Haven teenager was looking to head to afternoon soccer practice at Wilbur Cross High School after being home for part of the day for a doctor’s appointment.

Seeing the lineup of newly available white, blue, and green e bikes at the Grand and Blatchley bike share station, as well as the commotion of city officials and active transportation advocates getting ready for the press conference, he asked if the bikes were available to rent and then downloaded the app, signed in, and after a few minutes of figuring out how to pay, unlocked a bike and headed up Blatchley Avenue.

Hausladen said that the program has launched with 100 e bikes, and will soon have 100 more pedal-assisted bikes that were part of New Haven’s previous bike share program.

Why does he think this effort will work when the last one failed?

“Number one: Electricity is a different product,” Hausladen said, noting that this program has e bikes, which have proven immensely popular in other bike share systems across the country.

presser, but could not attend after testing positive for Covid.)

“Please, give it a try,” parking authority board chair Norm Forrester encouraged everyone listening and potentially interested in riding a Ride New Haven bike.

This version of city bike share is overseen by New Haven’s parking authority in conjunction with the San Francisco-based bike share provider Drop Mobility and a local bike mechanics company co-run by the owners of Devil’s Gear bike shop.

It comes more than four years after a previous local bike share effort, dubbed Bike New Haven, closed up shop after two years of operation.

Interested bikers must first download and sign up through the Ride New Haven app on their smartphones before being able to unlock a bike at one of 30 stations across the city.

The payment options include:

• Pay as you go, at $0.25 per minute, with a $1 unlock fee;

• $20 monthly payments, with no unlock fee and 60 minutes of free ride time per day (which can be across multiple trips), and $0.15 per minute after that;

• $99 annual payments, with no unlock fee, 60 minutes of free ride time per day, and $0.15 per minute after that;

• An“equity membership” model that costs $4 per month with 60 minutes of free ride time per day, and $0.10 per minute after that, for riders who receive SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) or who are residents or housing voucher recipients of the city’s housing authority. Hernandez, 15, wasn’t part of the speaking lineup at Tuesday’s presser. Instead,

Second, he said, this program should have a more “complete network” of stations, and available rental bicycles, than the previous one. While Ride New Haven is starting with the same 30 stations as the previous program (minus the one that was outside of Fair Haven Community Health Care’s current construction site at Grand Avenue and James Street), it intends to add more and expand.

Third, he said, “cost and price.” The parking authority has been able to subsidize this latest iteration of bike share to such an extent that there are low-cost versions available to low-income riders. The parking authority’s contract with Drop Mobility is also a minimum five-year agreement.

The previous bike share program included (controversial) advertisement panels stationed next to almost every set of bike racks. Will this new program, which is funded primarily by the parking authority and user fees and subscriptions, use the existing ad panels in any way?

No, Hausladen said about the remaining ad panels. “We are not associated with those things.”

New Haven Bike Mechanics' Johnny Brehon and Greg Ledovsky: Farmington Canal stop by Fussy Coffee has been the most popular so far since the program soft-launched a few days ago.

New Haven Climate Movement's Amelia Lee: Inclusivity is key to ensure "everyone in our city can benefit from sustainable transportation options."

City officials and biking advocates take a ceremonial ride after Tuesday's presser ...

... as Hernandez heads to soccer practice.

THOMAS BREEN PHOTOS

... as parking authority's Norm Forrester and Doug Hausladen cut the ribbon on a revived bike share.

The new haven independent

Employers Reel In Job Applications

by ASHER JOSEPH

With college on the horizon, Wilbur Cross High School seniors Oren Mendieta and Angeline Rivera are on the hunt for a job to cover tuition expenses so they showed up to a Ninth Square job fair hosted by a new app looking to connect local employers and employees to-be.

That job fair took place on Orange Street between Crown and Center Streets on Monday afternoon.

The app at the center of the fair is called Jobreel. Founded in 2023 by Emily Grewal, it connects applicants to employers through videos, “taking it a step further than a stack of resumés,” said Elena Grewal, owner of the East Rock ice cream shop Elena’s on Orange and the first user of her sister’s app.

“I noticed that Elena was being inundated with resumés, so we worked together to find a better connection between jobseekers and employers,” said Emily. “On sites like Indeed, your resumé is just another piece of paper in a stack, but Jobreel gives applicants a better chance of finding the right fit by showing off their personality.”

To use the app, jobseekers must upload a 30-second video detailing their current position, prior experiences, and career interests.

Shaheim Thomas, a server at Elena’s on Orange, was hired through Jobreel in April. “I found the position on Indeed, and there was a link to the Jobreel application in the description. I

said, ‘I don’t know what this is,’ but I uploaded the video and it worked out.”

The application consisted of 15 questions covering everything from customer service to healthcare access experience, as well as an introductory video. “Usually, these applications will have 30 redundant questions, but the Jobreel application was asking things about healthcare, which I hadn’t seen before but really liked,” said Thomas.

Since starting at Elena’s on Orange, Thomas has recommended Jobreel to all of his friends. “It’s easy and simple to maneuver, and it was way more tailored to my customer service experience. The app hasn’t left my phone.”

Cross seniors Mendieta and Rivera found the app to be a breeze. “I’m not good on camera, so I was anxious, but it gives you that human communication that you can’t find on a resumé,” said Rivera.

Mendieta, who recently left a server position at poké bowl chain Pokémoto, appreciated the app’s consideration of common concerns amongst job applicants. “Pokémoto was a nightmare,” she said. “Especially at an in-person job fair, I’m getting more information about expectations for the role and what my day-to-day would look like.”

The pair has previously searched for jobs on Indeed, but they have often been met with rejections after waiting periods of up to three months for responses. At Monday’s job fair, Mendieta and Rivera were able to connect with Soul de Cuba, Elena’s on Orange,

Olmo, and more employers within the span of less than an hour.

“Resumés are stressful because you have to list out everything you’ve ever done,” said Mendieta. “But Jobreel assesses you based on your actual customer service skills and provides insight into your personality that you can’t find on a piece of paper.

Mendieta and Rivera were waiting in line to speak to bagel shop Olmo owners Craig and Cara Hutchinson, who fielded several prospective applicants. Olmo was one of Jobreel’s first clients and has since hired three employees through the app.

“We just saw the technology and just thought, ‘This is genius, this is exactly what we need,’” said Cara. Previously, Olmo accepted job applications on its website and Indeed. Now, Jobreel is the only platform through which the bagel shop hires.

“[Customer service] is all about charisma,” said Craig. “We want to make sure we’re hiring someone who can hold a 30-second conversation, and Jobreel gives us a snapshot of an applicant’s personality.”

Currently, Olmo is hiring weekend servers, catering drivers, and line cooks. Employees are often crosstrained after understanding how they fit into the shop’s flow.

“The video is an [attention] grabber,” said Cara. “Jobreel ensures that we’re getting qualified candidates, many of whom we may never have given the time of day to if they were just another resumé in the stack.”

Julia Miller Named NHPS Teacher Of The Year

by STAFF

NEW HAVEN, CT Julia Miller, a social studies teacher at Metropolitan Business Academy, has been named the New Haven Public Schools Teacher of the Year for 2024.

Miller is a proud New Haven Public Schools teacher, parent and alum. A graduate of the Gallatin School of Individualized Study at New York University and Teachers College at Columbia University, Miller is entering her 18th year in the classroom. She has taught at Metro since 2015.

“I teach for many reasons,” said Miller. “I tell my civics students at the start of the year that my main goal for them is that they are informed and active community members who feel empowered

to make change. I want them to be able to make the differences they want to see in their communities, in society, and the world.

“I love our public schools so much. They provide incredible education, essential community resources, and opportunities and experiences that help impact our students’ lives for years to come.

“I am a huge proponent of whole child, trauma-informed, and culturally relevant education. I want our students to see themselves in the curriculum, in our classrooms,” Miller added. “I want their lives and contexts to be understood, and validated and uplifted. I want their needs to be met so they can access their education and help create the life and pathways that they want for themselves.”

Miller teaches in Metro’s Academy of

Law, Leadership & Political Science. After teaching Constitutional Law for many years, she now co-teaches a course she designed with a colleague entitled Youth Justice in Practice (YJP). Grounded in the theories of restorative and transformative justice, YJP is the senior capstone class of the law pathway. As part of YJP, Miller co-facilitates the Metro Youth Justice Panel, a student-led restorative justice initiative in the school that aims to repair harm, provide accountability, and support students who make mistakes in the building.

Miller has also helped to launch another initiative– a “Grow Your Own” model to create and nurture the next generation of NHPS teachers. Partnering with district colleagues, she has supported the development of the new Education and Lead-

ership Pathway being piloted at Wilbur Cross, Hillhouse and Metro. Last year she ran an after-school program called Educators Rising for aspiring educators. In addition to curating multiple guest speaker events, trips and experiential learning opportunities for her students, she worked as an adjunct professor at Quinnipiac University, teaching its Intro to Public Education course to 11th and 12th graders for dual credit. Miller was also part of a small group of curriculum writers who crafted an Early College Experience course entitled Seminar in Education through a collaboration with Southern Connecticut State University, a course she is currently teaching at Metro as part of its official inaugural year of the Education and Leadership pathway.

ASHER JOSEPH PHOTO Oren Mendieta and Angeline Rivera: Jobreel video "gives you that human communication that you can’t find on a resumé."

Sisters Elena and Emily Grewal: Putting new job hiring app to work.

Julia Miller,

The new haven independent

The new haven independent

Mobile Market Brings Produce To The People

by ABIBA BIAO

Equipped with a reusable shopping bag and reading glasses, Francine was on a mission. Not even waiting in the 80-degree heat could deter her from obtaining her groceries. In the end she was successful, leaving in tow with some peaches and a bunch of scallions, much cheaper and fresher, she proclaimed, than if she had gone to the supermarket.

Francine picked up that produce Tuesday during the latest weekly stop of Common Ground’s Mobile Market outside the Fair Haven branch library at 182 Grand Ave. The Fair Haven library is just one of the many sites that Common Ground Mobile Market services, including the Wilson Library, Mary Wade Nursing Home, the West Hills Community Center, also known as “The Shack,” and other locations around New Haven.

The operations of the farme’rs market coincides with the growing season of crops and runs from mid July to early November. The last farmer’s market session will be held at Bella Vista, a senior apartment complex in Fair Haven Heights, on Nov. 7. Fair Haven Library Branch Manager Kirk Morrison has partnered with the West Rock charter school Common Ground since 2019. According to Morrison, roughly three quarters of the people who come to the market use food benefit programs, showing how this market helps address the greater need of the community.

“It’s been a very impactful program, because not only do a lot of people come to it,

‘This is a Bond for Life:’ From Sisterhood to the Presidential Race

by JABEZ CHOI

The corner of Dixwell Avenue and Argyle Street will now have a new name honoring a pioneering psychologist, researcher, and volunteer local historian who still calls Dixwell home.

That’s thanks to a unanimous vote by the Board of Alders Tuesday night during their latest regular full board meeting in the Aldermanic Chamber on the second floor of City Hall.

Alders voted to rename the Dixwell-Argyle corner “Dr. Ann E. Garrett Robinson Way,” to celebrate Robinson. The 89-yearold’s accomplishments include being a psychologist and the first Black woman to join the Trinity College faculty, one of the first Black women to be a researcher at Yale, the first Black certified psychological examiner in the New Haven Public Schools system, and a professor emeritus of psychology and cultural anthropology at Gateway Community College, where she taught for 27 years.

but a lot of the people that come to it really depend on it, because they might not have transportation to get to more up-market farmer’s markets,” he said.

In addition to being a venue for Common Ground’s Mobile Market, the library also has other initiatives to tackle food insecurity, having a garden in the back of the building managed by Gather New Haven. The produce and food harvested from the garden is free for people to take.

Schandra Madha, the mobile market’s coordinator who also serves on the farm staff at Common Ground High School, worked as a cashier on Tuesday.

“We’re just trying to connect our farmers, our local producers, with folks in the community who might have limited access to fresh produce through systemic food apartheid,” she said.

All the food that is sold at the market comes from within a 20-mile radius of New Haven and is sourced from local farms such as Hindinger Farm in Hamden, Merry Mountain Farm in Woodbridge, Cecarelli Farms in Northford, and Yale Farms. Madha added that their fruit is sourced from Blue Hills Orchard in Wallingford.

Working alongside Madha was Jessica Wang, a Yale fellow, and Gino Cordone, assistant marketing manager for CitySeed and Common Ground. Fair Haven is one of the busiest stops for the mobile market, serving anywhere from 30 to 50 people.

Madha admitted that it’s sometimes difficult to keep up with the demand and need of populations. With the team being small, they can’t accommodate all transactions with food assistance at high volumes and there has been a reduction of Spanish speaking people on the team compared to last year, making communication with Spanish-speaking residents difficult.

Despite these challenges the mobile market is still committed to providing reliable, fresh produce. This year, the mobile market has added more stops to their schedule, with one of the locations being the Robert T. Wolfe apartments in the Hill.

For Francine, who declined to share her last name, the Fair Haven Library has been her go-to spot to catch the mobile market. While the mobile market also visits Bella Vista where she lives, the market operates in the early hours from 10 a.m. to noon. She much prefers grocery shopping in the afternoon, which is exactly the timeframe where the mobile market visits Fair Haven Library.

“The produce is good, and it’s nice getting it directly from the farm. I like that,” she said. “It’s supporting the community and it’s a reasonable price.”

As for how she’ll use the food she picked up on Tuesday, Francine said with a laugh, “I love to cook and I don’t have any [recipe] plans. I kind of wing everything.”

“I think what’s significant for this stop is making folks feel comfortable with being like, predominantly Spanish speaking,” she said. “Even though our Spanish is limited, [it’s important to] just make people feel comfortable.”

Former Alder Returns To City Hall

by Laura Glesby

Former Yale/Downtown Alder Alex Guzhnay is back as a regular presence at Board of Alders meetings this time, as the mayor’s new legislative liaison. Meanwhile, his predecessor Barbara Montalvo is moving on to a new position in Stamford after over 11 years working in City Hall.

someone called it into U.I. yet?’ ” Until the end of 2023, Guzhnay was one of the alders at those meetings, representing Ward 1 a section of Downtown that largely covers Yale undergraduate dorms, alongside some additional streets. Guzhnay decided not to run for a second term, knowing that he would be graduating from Yale and moving out of the dorms in May.

all helped teach me one thing or another.” Reflecting on her time as the legislative liaison, Montalvo said she’s most proud of her work to revamp the city’s boards and commissions after a pandemic-era backlog of vacancies. By the Independent’s count, she facilitated the appointment of 144 people as well as the reappointment of 85 people to boards and commissions.

“We always have intentions of honoring people,” Newhallville / Prospect Hill Alder Kimberly Edwards said during Tuesday’s meeting. “A lot of times, we don’t get to do it or get around to it and realize the impact they’ve had on a person or community.” Robinson moved to New Haven in 1967 and into Dixwell in 1970. The renamed corner will be just across the street from where Robinson’s house currently stands. The renaming vote comes as a full circle moment for Robinson, who was a leading proponent for the renaming of downtown’s Lucretia’s Corner in 2022 in honor of New Haven’s first known Black resident.

Montalvo served as the legislative liaison to Mayor Justin Elicker for two and a half years, after previous roles in the finance division and the office of legislative services.

As the legislative liaison in charge of communicating with the Board of Alders, Montalvo attended as many alder committee and full board meetings as possible occasionally staying until midnight, when the lights shut off in City Hall.

“She’s an advocate,” Edwards said, after the vote. “When we have an advocate, we need to advocate for them.”

“Before, I was a nine-to-five person,” Montalvo reflected. After her time in City Hall, she said, “I can’t even go up and down the street” without thinking about how to make public life better. “If there’s a light post out, I’m like, ‘Has

In the intervening months, he found himself missing the work. “It left me kind of wanting to stay involved, wanting to not lose the relationships that I built on the Board and with people across different city departments,” he said. It wasn’t a hard decision, he said, to apply for the liaison job. He spent a few months helming state representative candidate Steve Winter’s campaign before starting in the role this week.

Guzhnay said that his own experience as an alder helped him understand the value of a local legislative body. “Alders are really on the front lines of receiving that community input and [hearing] what constituents across the city are thinking,” he said. “They’re all mentors, and they

Guzhnay is excited to inherit this task and he hopes to rope other young New Haveners into the workings of City Hall along the way. “I’m a New Haven Promise scholar,” he said, referring to the local college scholarship program from which he hopes to recruit. “That’s a nice pool of young professionals and college graduates who could bring a different perspective, a young perspective: the next generation of boards and commissioners.”

Meanwhile, Montalvo is moving on to become the legislative officer for Stamford’s Board of Representatives the equivalent of New Haven’s director of Legislative Affairs, coordinating assistance for the city’s legislative body. Mon-

Jessica Wang helping Francine select groceries at the Fair Haven mobile market .

Schandra Madha and Gino Cordone weighing green bell peppers for a customer

LAURA GLESBY FILE PHOTO Dr. Robinson, at July's corner renaming committee hearing.

The new haven independent

The new haven independent

The new haven independent

Congressional Black Caucus Releases Groundbreaking Corporate Accountabilit y Report on DEI

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

Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) and CBC members have released a first-ofits-kind report titled “What Good Looks Like: A Corporate Accountability Report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” The report aims to hold Fortune 500 companies accountable for their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and the racial justice movement that followed. This initiative comes as corporate America faces renewed scrutiny following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn affirmative action in the Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard case.

The CBC’s report highlights which corporations are making tangible progress in advancing DEI and offers a roadmap for other companies to follow. Despite efforts from right-wing groups to dismantle diversity initiatives, the report finds that many Fortune 500 companies are standing firm in their commitments. The report also examines DEI practices in manufacturing, finance, insurance, and technology sectors, providing industry-specific insights.

Most Fortune 500 companies participating in the CBC’s survey demonstrated their commitment to DEI even after the Supreme Court’s ruling. CBC members said this is crucial because conservative organizations, such as Stephen Millerled America First Legal, are increasingly waging legal and political attacks against corporations’ diversity initiatives. These groups argue that DEI initiatives violate federal law, threatening legal action

against companies that continue to promote workplace diversity.

The Findings

The CBC’s report offers a detailed analysis of diversity efforts across various industries, using data from the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) and the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Key findings include:

• Sector Representation: The bulk of the responses came from companies in manu-

facturing (31%), finance and insurance (25%), and information (16%).

• Best Practices: The report identifies 12 best practices, including leadership accountability, data disaggregation, talent retention, and pay equity. These examples provide a model for other companies to implement DEI strategies effectively.

• Progress and Challenges: While many companies have made significant strides, persistent gaps remain, particularly in leadership diversity and retention rates.

The report encourages corporations to move beyond public statements and implement measurable DEI outcomes.

The CBC hopes the report will serve as a tool for corporations to benchmark their progress and adopt more robust DEI measures. “What Good Looks Like” outlines not only where companies are succeeding but also where opportunities for improvement lie, urging corporate leaders to align their actions with their stated DEI values.

Conservative Backlash and the Fight for

DEI

Officials said the CBC’s efforts to hold corporations accountable come amid heightened political tensions. Since the Supreme Court’s ruling, Donald Trump and his supporters have escalated their attacks on DEI programs. Right-wing legal campaigns have targeted not only corporate diversity efforts but also federal programs aimed at leveling the playing field for Black and minority-owned businesses.

Conservative attorneys general from over a dozen states have warned Fortune 500 companies, threatening legal action over their diversity programs. Additionally, anti-DEI bills have been introduced in more than 30 states, aiming to restrict diversity efforts in college admissions and the workplace.

Despite the attacks, the CBC said it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing racial and economic equity. In December 2023, the CBC sent Fortune 500 companies an accountability letter urging them to uphold their DEI commitments in the face of political pressure, which catalyzed the report.

Corporate America’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Since the CBC’s letter, companies have held over 50 meetings with CBC representatives, affirming their dedication to diversity. The CBC has also convened discussions with industry trade associations and hosted a briefing with more than 300 Fortune 500 company representatives to strengthen collaboration on DEI efforts.

Moving Forward

The CBC’s report is not just a reflection on past efforts but a call to action for Con’t on page 14

California Passes Bill Banning Discrimination Based on Hair Styles, Texture

San Jose, CA - Aug 16, 2024: Governor Gavin Newsom signing 10 new bills, groundbreaking legislation aimed at combating retail crime in California. (Shutterstock)

On Aug. 27, the State Legislature passed Assembly Bill (AB) 1815, a law that bans hair-based discrimination related to race, making its way to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for a final signature. This bill seeks to expand the state’s civil rights laws to include protections based on hairstyles and hair texture such as locks, braids, and twists, and protective hairstyles that are popular among Black people. California was one of the first states to enact laws that protect people from discrimination in schools and employment under the CROWN Act in 2019. According to the Economic Policy Institute, Black women’s hairstyles are 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional as compared to those of White women.

The CROWN Workplace Research Study revealed last year that 66% of Black women change their hair for a job interviews

— most of them from curly to straight to appear more professional.

AB 1815 is one of 14 reparations bills introduced by the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC). The bills were based on recommendations in the final report published by the California Reparations Task Force in 2023.

The task force recommended more than 100 policy proposals that promote racial justice and justify reparations.

Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), the newly elected chair of the CLBC, authored AB 1815.

“We have changed a harm that has been given to people for generations that stated that beauty only occurs if you look a certain way if your hair is only a certain way,” said Weber. “This particular bill repairs that harm.”

Weber acknowledged that AB 1815 was one of the least controversial in the 14-bill package. Although the bill was amended a few times, it faced minimal opposition from lawmakers.

Bo Tefu and Atonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media | LA Focus

James Earl Jones, Iconic Voice of Darth Vader and EGOT Winner, Dies at 93

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

James Earl Jones, the legendary actor whose deep, resonant voice became synonymous with some of the most iconic characters in film history, passed away today at his home in Dutchess County, New York. He was 93. His representatives at Independent Artist Group first confirmed the actor’s death to Deadline. Over a remarkable career that spanned six decades, Jones earned an indelible place in both Hollywood and Broadway. He became one of only a few entertainers to achieve the prestigious EGOT, winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. Best known to many as the commanding voice behind Darth Vader in Star Wars, Jones brought depth and gravitas to the villainous character, making him one of cinema’s most unforgettable antagonists. He reprised the role in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005) and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), further cementing his legacy in the galaxy far, far away.

Born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones’s contributions to the arts extended far beyond Star Wars. He voiced the beloved character Mufasa in Disney’s animated classic The Lion King (1994) and again in the 2019 live-action remake. His unmistakable voice was also a signature of CNN’s “This is CNN” campaign.

Jones’s acting career began on the stage and in film with his breakout role in Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove (1964). His powerful on-screen presence led to roles in a variety of acclaimed films including Conan the Barbarian (1982), Coming to America (1988), The Hunt for Red October (1990), and The Sandlot (1990). He earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Jack Jefferson in The Great White Hope (1970), a role that also won him his first Tony Award.

On Broadway, Jones was a force to be reckoned with. He earned four Tony nominations and took home two wins for The Great White Hope in 1969 and August Wilson’s Fences in 1987. His contribution to the stage was celebrated with a Special Tony Award in 2017.

Jones’s talents were equally recognized on television, where he won two Primetime Emmys in 1991 for Gabriel’s Fire and Heat Wave. His voice and presence on-screen were magnetic, a testament to his versatility as an actor who could excel in drama, comedy, and everything in between.

A recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors in 2002, Jones’s lifetime of achievements earned him accolades from SAG-AFTRA and the National Board of Review and a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Recording in 1977.

in Federal Trial of Memphis Officers Charged in Tyre Nichols’ Death

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Jury selection began Monday, Sept. 9, in the federal trial of three former Memphis police officers charged with violating the civil rights of Tyre Nichols, the 29-yearold Black man who died following a brutal beating by police in January 2023. The incident, captured on police cameras, ignited protests and calls for police reform nationwide.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith face charges of using excessive force, failing to intervene, and obstructing justice through witness tampering. All three have pleaded not guilty.

On January 7, 2023, the police allegedly pulled over Nichols for alleged reckless driving. After being removed from his car, Nichols attempted to flee on foot. Officers caught up with him and violently assaulted him, as shown in police body camera footage. Nichols died in the hospital three days later from his injuries. The autopsy revealed that he died from blunt force trauma to the head, and his death was ruled a homicide.

The three officers on trial and two other officers—Emmitt Martin III and Desmond Mills Jr.—were members of the Memphis Police Department’s now-

disbanded SCORPION Unit, a specialized crime suppression team. All five officers were fired after the incident and were later charged with second-degree murder in state court. Mills and Martin have pleaded guilty to federal charges and may testify during the trial.

While the trial is expected to last three to four weeks, the incident has also triggered

a broader civil rights investigation into the Memphis Police Department.

In September 2023, Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee announced the launch of an investigation into potential patterns of unconstitutional conduct

within the Memphis Police Department.

The investigation, which Nichols’ death sparked, is looking into whether the department used excessive force and racially discriminatory practices, particularly during traffic stops involving Black people.

“The tragic death of Tyre Nichols created enormous pain in the Memphis community and across the country,” said U.S.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department is launching this investigation to examine serious allegations that the City of Memphis and the Memphis Police Department engage in a pattern or practice of unconstitutional conduct and discriminatory policing based on race.”

Clarke emphasized that while Nichols’ death was a catalyst, reports of officers escalating encounters and using excessive force over an extended period prompted the investigation. “There are also indications that officers may use force punitively when faced with behavior they perceive to be insolent,” Clarke stated.

The investigation will examine whether Memphis police violated constitutional rights through unlawful stops, excessive force, or racially discriminatory policing practices.

In addition to the federal trial and civil rights probe, Nichols’ family has filed a $550 million lawsuit against the City of Memphis, Police Chief Cerelyn “C.J.” Davis, the five officers involved in Nichols’ death, and other officials. The lawsuit alleges negligence in hiring practices and creating a culture of aggressive policing within the SCORPION Unit.

The trial has drawn national attention, with Nichols’ family expected to attend as the officers’ trial.

Biden-Harris Administration Pushes Forward with Unprecedented Education Reforms Despite Conservative Opposition

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

The Biden-Harris administration is continuing its relentless pursuit to transform America’s public education system, despite repeated attempts by conservative Republicans and controversial rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court to block key initiatives like student debt cancellation. On Wednesday, Sept. 4, the White House released a comprehensive fact sheet outlining the administration’s bold actions to ensure that every student in the country has access to the resources they need to succeed.

Since taking office, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have championed education as the bedrock of America’s democracy and the foundation for opportunity. Their administration has delivered the largest-ever federal investment in K-12 education through the American Rescue Plan (ARP), allocating $130 billion to schools nationwide. The White House said the funding has had a transformative effect, particularly in communities hit hardest by the pandemic.

A groundbreaking study by Harvard and Stanford revealed that schools receiving federal COVID-19 relief funds—ranging from $4,000 to more than $13,000 per student—are already seeing significant

improvements in academic performance.

Administration officials proclaimed that the long-term economic benefits are expected to be just as impressive, with the investments likely to lead to higher future earnings for students, especially those from low-income backgrounds. They said research shows that a 10% increase in per-student spending over a 12-year period boosts lifetime wages by 7%.

As students return to the classroom this fall, the administration wants to ensure the momentum continues. The White House announced a series of new initiatives to accelerate academic success, bolster student engagement, and tackle key challenges like absenteeism and literacy. Among the most impactful of these actions is the allocation of $149 million to support evidence-based reading programs to ensure all students can read fluently by third grade. Officials said states like Ohio and Montana will use the funding to expand teacher training and strengthen literacy programs, particularly in underserved communities that have been historically left behind.

In addition to bolstering literacy, the administration is awarding $30 million to improve comprehensive student assessment systems. According to the White House, these tools will provide educators with critical data on student progress and help inform instruction, driving better classroom outcomes nationwide. For in-

stance, Nebraska plans to use these funds to improve assessment data for English learners, ensuring that teachers have the insights needed to tailor instruction and close achievement gaps.

The Department of Education also issued updated school improvement guidance, providing states and school districts with evidence-based strategies to increase student achievement. The guidance offers solutions for tackling chronic absenteeism, a significant barrier to student success, through early warning systems and better family engagement. It also emphasizes the importance of smallgroup tutoring, after-school programs,

and expanded learning opportunities to help students recover from pandemicrelated disruptions. The draft guidance is open for public comment until October 4, 2024, allowing educators and community leaders to provide input before it is finalized.

The administration also said it’s taking decisive action to address chronic absenteeism, an issue that has only worsened since the pandemic. The White House called on state education leaders to create statewide data systems that provide realtime information on absenteeism rates, allowing schools to identify root causes and implement targeted interventions.

States like Alabama and Rhode Island have already implemented innovative systems to monitor attendance and have seen improvements.

To support these efforts, the BidenHarris administration said it’s pressing industry vendors to improve the availability of attendance data, urging them to make this critical information accessible to schools without additional costs. Officials said the actions are part of a larger push to ensure that every district has the tools to track absenteeism and boost student engagement.

The administration has launched the Student Attendance and Engagement Solutions Network to further engage students in partnership with AmeriCorps and Johns Hopkins University’s Everyone Graduates Center. Nearly 200 school districts across 43 states have joined the network, representing over 7 million students. The initiative allows districts to share best practices for improving attendance and engagement, and the administration is encouraging more districts to join.

Recognizing that transportation challenges often prevent students from attending school regularly, the administration is also collaborating with the Department of Transportation to improve transit options for students in underserved areas. This includes expanding safe routes to school, offering free or

Haiti – Blinken on Visit Announces US Support for Peace Keeping Force

By New York Carib News

Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Haiti to demonstrate American backing for an international initiative aimed at reducing gang-related violence in the Caribbean country.

On September 5, 2024, Blinken landed in Port-au-Prince, where he presented a fresh round of assistance to refugees and met with interim prime minister Garry Conille.

Blinken informed reporters, “At this critical moment, we do need more funding, we do need more personnel to sustain and carry out the objectives of this mission.”

Since President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in July 2021, gangs have taken control of large areas of Haiti. Eighty percent of Port-au-Prince, the capital, is included in this estimate.

Amidst its crisis of legitimacy, the Haitian government has found it difficult to retake power and preserve calm.

The violence in Haiti has spread to ten departments, and the interim administration there widened the country’s state of emergency just one day before Blinken’s arrival.

Before, the Ouest department—which includes Port-au-Prince—was the only territory covered by the state of emergency.

However, a spokesman for Prime Minister Conille claimed that the enlarged emergency designation is a reflection of gang conflicts occurring in departments such as Artibonite, which is a sizable area that grows rice.

The United Nations estimates that in 2024, the violence will have pushed a record 578,074 people from their homes, making it the world’s greatest

internal displacement disaster due to crime.

An estimated 2,500 people lost their lives or were injured in the ongoing conflict in only the first quarter of 2024.

However, to support Haiti’s law enforcement, the Kenyan government dispatched 200 police personnel in June. Out of an anticipated 1,000 Ke-

nyan policemen, a second wave of 200 came the next month.

Nevertheless, Blinken cautioned that the Kenyan military might not be sufficient to stem the flow of gang-related violence on their own.

He has publicly asked whether a UN peacekeeping force is necessary, as have other US officials.

However, it is a contentious idea in Haiti, where on their most recent deployment, UN forces caused a fatal cholera outbreak.

Between 2010 and 2019, the illness claimed the lives of around 10,000 individuals.

Many in the country view international troops with caution due to the lengthy history of foreign intervention. The priority, according to Blinken during his visit, was to make sure the international community was ready to help the Kenyan soldiers going forward, who had arrived as part of a mission known as the Multinational Security Help Mission.

Last October, the operation was authorized for a one-year duration. The UN should get together again and decide on an extension, according to Blinken.

“The mission itself needs to be renewed,” he noted. “That’s what we’re working on right now. But we also

want something that’s reliable, that’s sustainable, and we’ll look at every option to do that. A UN peacekeeping mission is one option.”

The US has provided the most financial assistance for the project, with a $360 million pledge from President Joe Biden’s administration.

Recent news of an extra $45 million in humanitarian relief for Haiti was released.

During his visit, Blinken again emphasized the need to have a stable, democratically elected administration. He urged Haitian authorities to organize fresh general elections for the next year.

“That is the critical next step,” he noted. “We want to make sure Haiti is back on a clear democratic track.”

Previous to the killing of President Moise, Haiti had not had federal elections. Its most recent democratically elected authorities reached the end of their terms in January 2023, and there was nobody to take their place.

At that moment, the late Moise nominated former prime minister Ariel Henry to lead the cabinet soon before his passing. However, because Henry was an unelected official and hence not very popular, local gangs took advantage of this mistrust of the government to further their own agendas and be-

Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Haiti to demonstrate American backing for an international initiative aimed at reducing gang-related violence in the Caribbean country.

by Prosper Kuzo,

Salli Richardson-Whitfield, celebrated for her successful transition from actress to producer and director, has earned her first Emmy nomination for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series. This nomination makes her the first Black woman to achieve such a milestone, marking a significant moment in the industry.

The nomination honors her work on the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, which was canceled before completing its run.

Before her directing success, RichardsonWhitfield was a prominent figure in 1990s film and television, with notable roles in Mo’ Money and A Low Down Dirty Shame, as well as appearances on The Jamie Foxx Show and ROC. She also lent her

voice to the beloved animated series Gargoyles.

Reflecting on her historic nomination, Richardson-Whitfield shared that the recognition came as a surprise, noting it as a personal achievement she hadn’t anticipated. “Completely blindsided! I was on set, and I was actually more focused on The Gilded Age because HBO had been pushing that show,” she told ESSENCE.

“When The Gilded Age got a nod, I thought, ‘Great, I get to go to the party.’ But nothing in my wildest dreams said Winning Time was going to get several nominations, let alone one for me as a directing nominee.

So, I’m very, very surprised.”

The cancellation of Winning Time made the recognition even more unexpected.

“Out of any show I’ve done so far in my career, I was really happy that it was that

show and that particular episode because it was one that I was very proud of,” Richardson-Whitfield added.

Despite the intense competition in her category, Richardson-Whitfield is thrilled about her Emmy debut and sees it as a stepping stone for even greater achievements. “Well, I have never been to the Emmys! So, I’m super excited. I thought, ‘Okay, I produced this show, at least I get to go.’ The fact that it’s my first time and I’m nominated for two Emmys is going to make the party much better. Win or lose, at least I’m there,” she said.

Looking ahead, Richardson-Whitfield is already preparing for her next project, directing Task, an upcoming HBO crime drama starring Mark Ruffalo, further solidifying her growing reputation as a director in the industry.

Meet the 35-year-old Nigerian who has been brought in to save Red Lobster as new CEO after making history at P.F. Chang’s

Damola Adamolekun made history as CEO at P.F. Chang’s, a popular Asian restaurant chain founded in 1993 by Paul Fleming and Philip Chiang. The Nigerian native was the first black to manage P.F. Chang’s.

As CEO of P.F. Chang’s, he focused on implementing updated technology to help with the new reality of to-go orders during the height of the pandemic. After becoming CEO in May 2020, he led the company to a 31.7% increase in sales in 2021 compared to the year before.

He guided the business to shift its operations for “online optimization and putting our staff into new roles.” According to the National Restaurant Association, he helped generate an estimated $1 billion in revenue for the chain.

Today, Adamolekun has been appointed Red Lobster’s new CEO to guide the company through its restructuring process. Red Lobster filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May after accruing over $1 billion in debt. His expertise is being tapped to bring the business to profit-

ability.

“Red Lobster is an iconic brand with a tremendous future,” Adamolekun said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to working with our team members across North America to reinvigorate the brand by making it the best place to work for our employees and improving the experience for our guests.”

Fortress managing director Morgan McClure expressed excitement about the potential hire in a statement, according to Entrepreneur. Fortress Investment Group is the potential new owner of Red Lobster.

“We’re excited to bring Damola on board to drive our investment plan for Red Lobster,” McClure said in a statement. “Fortress has a strong track record of operating and improving iconic American restaurants, and Damola’s energy, leadership, and experience will be key to restoring Red Lobster’s status as an iconic and admired American brand.”

Damola Adamolekun. Photo Credit: National Restaurant Association

Salli Richardson-Whitfield makes history as first Black woman nominated for Emmy in Outstanding Drama Series Directing

Face2FaceAfrica.com

Salli Richardson-Whitfield. Photo source: Monarchmagazine.com

Fatman Scoop’s last words to fans before collapsing on stage during a per formance in Hamden,

By Face2FaceAfrica.com

Hours before his sudden demise at 53, Grammy-winning DJ Fatman Scoop celebrated the release of his latest single. He however collapsed on stage during a performance at Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut, on Friday.

His family announced his passing the next morning, though they did not disclose the cause of death, as reported by Daily Mail. The radio personality, who is known in private life as Isaac Freeman III, took to his Instagram on Friday to publicize his collaboration with musician Dyce Payso.

He shared a clip of their new music video, promoting the track “LET IT GO” and thanking fans for their support. Earlier this month, Scoop had praised Payso’s talent and ambition. “Finished Up A Song/Video With @dyce_payso – sometimes you just know when somebody got ‘it’ which I think he does,” he wrote alongside a snap of the two together.

Scoop continued: “On top of making a lot of great relationships for himself. Pay

attention to dude. I see really good things happening with the young homey. He has the look, the songs, but more importantly- HE WORKS HARD! And u CANT COACH THAT!!”

On Saturday morning, Scoop’s manager, DJ and producer Birch Michael, announced the rapper’s death on social media with deep sadness.

The artist’s family soon followed with a statement, remembering him not only as a world-class performer but also as a beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend.

“Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life,” the family said. “He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage.”

Born in New York City in 1971, Scoop gained prominence in the early 2000s through collaborations with stars like Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey, renowned for his powerful, deep vocal presence.

His family described him as “the undisputed voice of the club”, and said his “music made us dance and embrace life with positivity.”

The three-time Grammy winner has in re-

cent times been exploring podcasting and reality TV, appearing on Channel 5’s Celebrity Big Brother: UK vs USA in 2015. His cause of death remains unclear, but it followed a medical emergency on stage on Friday.

Audience footage shows the rapper collapsing moments after energizing the crowd with a shout of “Let’s make some noise!”

In a clip from the event, a member of Scoop’s entourage turned off the music,

She was in and out of prison six times, now she helps other formerly incarcerated women char t better

by Dollita Okine, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Susan Burton is influencing generations with her past. Burton, who was in and out of prison six times over two decades, has not been afraid to share her experience. The 72-year-old recently appeared on Forbes’ 50 over 50 list of women who have impacted the world.

Burton’s arrest came after a traumatic life in Los Angeles marked by terrible pain, poverty, and abuse, as well as the sudden passing of her son, which propelled her into addiction.

When she eventually obtained therapy, her political awakening began, and she became an exceptional advocate for reform. In 1998, Burton established A New Way of Life (ANWOL) to assist formerly incarcerated people in finding accommodation and reuniting with relatives.

It began as a single reentry home and has evolved into a comprehensive program that has assisted over 1,500 formerly incarcerated women in finding housing. It has also reunited over 400 women with their children and provided pro bono legal services to over 3,400 community members with conviction histories.

In the U.S., about two-thirds of people who are released from prison are rearrested within three years and half are reincarcerated, according to data cited by Forbes.

“Well, it’s striking to me how we can spend $75,000 a year to lock a woman like me up, and then we send her back to the community with $200, no ID, no Social Security card, nowhere to live, and expect her to make it. It’s impossible,” Burton told the Ford Foundation.

“In 1998, I founded A New Way of Life Reentry Project following my experience in

plunging the venue into an eerie silence. Partly obscured by the DJ booth, a medical official performed chest compressions on the rapper. Authorities were dispatched around 8:33 PM, and he was wheeled out on a stretcher and rushed to the hospital. Hamden Mayor Lauren Garett stated that Scoop was receiving emergency care and urged fans to “keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”

As news of his death spread, tributes poured in. The UK’s Reminisce Festival, where he was scheduled to perform on September 7, shared that his “absence will be profoundly felt by everyone.” “He was not just one of our most popular performers, he was a cherished member of the Reminisce family,” the festival said.

On Saturday, Missy Elliott shared a heartfelt tribute, sending prayers to his family for strength during this difficult time.

“Fatman Scoop VOICE & energy have contributed to MANY songs that made the people feel HAPPY & want to dance for over 2 decades. Your IMPACT will NEVER be forgotten,” she wrote.

futures

the criminal justice system, with the goal of helping others break the cycle of incarceration. I would go to the bus station where I knew women were leaving behind a life of incarceration and entering the community.

I’d meet them there and offer them a bed and a place to live in my house,” she said. “More and more began to come, and we created a community of women helping and supporting each other. Many were recovering from substance misuse or the effects of incarceration or early childhood trauma, and in this community we all got better. We all thrived.”

To promote the ANWOL reentry model across the country, Burton, then 66 years old, launched the Sisterhood Alliance for Freedom and Equality (SAFE) Housing Network in 2018 and that has helped it to offer reentry services to thousands of people.

The rates of incarceration for women in the U.S. have risen more than 700 percent since 1980, with an over 70 percent recidivism rate, as noted by Burton.

Describing this as devastating for the communities these women come from, Burton indicated that A New Way of Life has a recidivism rate of about one percent. For less than one-third of the price of jail, she said the team helps a woman regain custody of her children, start her own business, enroll in college, find employment, open a savings account, get back on her feet, and learn the value of herself and her place in the community—all of which Burton claims to be measures of success.

She declared, “My hopes and dreams are to create a national network of safe homes for women to have a place to come back into their community.”

World Records Face2FaceAfrica.com

23-year-old Ghanaian journalist Abdul Hakim Awal has set a Guinness World Record for the longest hug of a tree, holding the embrace for 24 hours and 21 minutes. According to a Guinness World Record report, Awal achieved this feat in Kumasi, Ghana, surpassing the previous record of 16 hours set by Ugandan environmental activist Faith Patricia Ariokot earlier in 2024.

The record attempt took place outside the Kumasi Cultural Centre, where onlookers gathered to support and cheer him on.

Awal embarked on this challenge to draw attention to nature conservation in Ghana, and his efforts have now earned him a place in Guinness World Records. Initially, he pledged to plant a new tree for every minute of his record attempt, resulting in a total of 1,461 minutes.

Significantly, Awal was required to remain standing with his arms wrapped around the tree without any breaks throughout the duration of his attempt. Despite the difficulty, the 23-year-old’s persistence has garnered global recognition.

Ghanaian activist sets Guinness World Record for longest tree hug by Prosper Kuzo

Abdul Hakim Awal- Original photo credits : Guinness

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

NOTICE

Request for Proposals

THE GLENDOWER GROUP, INC.

Invitation for Bids

Robert T Wolfe- Elevator Modernization

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Yardi Conversion Project Manager/ Implementation Consultant

Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking proposals for Yardi Conversion Project Manager/ Implementation Consultant. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from ECC’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

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

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 3:00PM.

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

NOTICIA

The Glendower Group, Inc. is currently seeking bids for Robert T Wolfe- Elevator Modernization. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Glendower’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Monday, September 9, 2024, at 3:00PM.

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Request for Proposals GAP Analysis

Housing Authority City of New Haven d/b/a Elm City Communities is currently seeking proposals for qualified firm to perform a GAP Analysis for system conversion. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from ECC’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

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

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 3:00PM.

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

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

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

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Budget Analyst Trainee (Leadership Associate (Confidential))

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 240726&R2=5989VR&R3=001

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

final cleaning.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

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

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

Bid Due Date: 10/1/24 @ 3pm

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

The Milford Redevelopment & Housing Partnership (MRHP) is seeking sealed bids for the project entitled Foran Towers – Kitchen Renovations. Bid Opening date is September 19, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Milford Redevelopment & Housing Partnership, 75 Demaio Drive, Milford, CT 06460. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. A pre-bid walk thru will be held on September 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm at 264 High Street, Milford CT. Contract documents including plans & specifications can be viewed online and purchased from DigiPrint’s website. Visit www.digiprintct.com and select KITCHEN RENOVATIONS at FORAN TOWERS for the MILFORD REDEVELOPMENT & HOUSING PARTNERSHIP, beginning on August 26, 2024. 5% Bid Security (Over $25K ONLY) and 100% Performance/Payment Bonds (Over $100K ONLY) are required. Bidders will note requirements of minimum wage rates, nondiscrimination/equal opportunity rules (Executive Order 11246) and related provisions in the General Conditions. No bid shall be withdrawn for sixty (60) days. Complete bidding requirements are noted in the Contract Documents. This project is federally assisted. Therefore, bidders must comply with the following requirements: Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968; Equal Opportunity provisions of Executive Order 11246; Non-Discrimination provision of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Labor Standards provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act and related acts and Contract Work Hours Standards Act; prevailing wage determinations as issued by the United States Department of Labor; and all applicable provisions under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. MRHP is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Anthony J. Vasiliou, Executive Director

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

Custodian

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

If you have not already received an ITB from Haynes and would like to: please email Taylor your business info, she will add you to Procore and send the ITB with access to the project documents. Email Questions & Bids to: Taylor Els tels@haynesct.com 203-888-8139

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 Project documents

http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

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

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

Maintenance workers needed for the Wallingford Public Schools to work the 2:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. shift. Hourly rate: $19.78 to $25.14. Requires some experience in building maintenance work. The closing date will be September 9, 2024 or the date we receive the fiftieth (50) application whichever occurs first. To apply online please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Wallingford Town Hall, Department of Human Resources, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE.

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

Garrity

Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

NOTICE

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

Finance Director

Salary Range -

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

PUBLIC WORKS MAINTAINER II

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Contact: Tom Dunay Phone: 860- 243-2300

Email: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Reclaimer Operators and Milling Operators with current licensing and clean driving record, be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY

We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

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

Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300

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

Portland

NOTICIA

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

MACRI VIVIENDAS

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Union Company seeks:

Police Officer full-time

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

The Town of Wallingford Department of Public Works has openings for Maintainer II. Applicants should possess 2 years’ experience as a laborer in construction work involving the operation and care of trucks and other mechanical equipment, or 2 years training in one of the skilled trades and 1 year of experience in construction operations, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. A valid (CDL) Class B or higher is required. $24.87 - $29.16 hourly plus retirement plan, paid sick and vacation time, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, family medical & dental insurance, and promotional opportunities. To apply online by the closing date of September 20, 2024, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/human-resources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com

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

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply

Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Construction

NEW HAVEN

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

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

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

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

Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258 CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The

WANTED TRUCK DRIVER

Truck Driver with clean CDL license

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

The Housing Authority of the City of Bristol MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE PERSON F/T – The Housing Authority of the City of Bristol (BHA) is seeking seeking one (1) energetic individual who has experience maintaining residential properties. Skills include, but are not limited to, grounds maintenance, general upkeep of a residential building, painting, changing locks, and other general handyman maintenance repairs. Also landscaping and snow removal.

Pay: $19.02-$27.18 per hour. Benefits: Health, dental, vision and life insurance, Employee assistance program, Paid time off, Retirement plan, Tuition reimbursement

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Senior Sales Representative Wanted

164 Jerome Ave., Bristol, CT Monday through Friday; Overtime; Weekends as needed Education: High school or equivalent (Required) Experience: Maintenance 1 year (Required) License/Certification: Driver's License (Required)

Send resume and references by Sept. 18, 2024 to mrowe@bristolhousing.org.

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Advertising and the cultivation of existing and new advertising clients is key to the growth and continued success of The Inner-City News. The paper is delivered weekly to businesses, schools, shopping outlets and wherever newspapers can be found. This is a remote sales position.

Work closely with the Publisher and editor to create a successful sales strategy. Must be a self-starter and highly motivated.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Salary

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

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

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

+ Commission to be discussed Potential local travel. Senior Sales Representative Qualifications and Skills: Communicates well and has strong written and verbal communication skills. Knows effective ways to market products and services and learns about new offerings quickly. Works well independently and has advanced time management and organization skills. Potential to manage sales representatives and has good leadership skills. Builds relationships with customers and coworkers and has strong interpersonal skills. An associate or bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related major is a plus but not required. At least [number] years of sales representative experience is preferred. Interested candidates should apply to John Thomas, JThomas@penfieldcomm.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VALENTINA

julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

Town of Bloomfield

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071 Deputy Finance Director/Controller Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE. For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

Fabricators, Erectors & Welders Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay.

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT

Construction

Laboratory Technician

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to perform tasks in the sampling and physical, chemical and bacteriological laboratorial analysis of raw (untreated) and potable (treated) water and wastewater. The position requires 2 years of experience in the laboratory analysis of water and wastewater, plus an A S. degree in biology, chemistry or related field from an accredited college or university, or an equivalent combination of experience and training may be substituted on a year-for-year basis. Must obtain and maintain during the course of employment any required local, State and federal certifications in laboratory analysis work. Must possess and maintain a valid State of CT driver’s license. Wage rate: $30.20 to $36.31 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, and 13 paid holidays. To apply online by the closing date of August 29, 2024, please visit: www.wallingfordct.gov/government/departments/humanresources/. Applications are also available at the Department of Human Resources located in Room #301 of the Town Hall, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

LEGAL NOTICE

SCRCOG’s Regional Purchasing Consortium is accepting sealed Request for Qualifications for:

RFQ #024-01: ON-CALL ENGINEERING SERVICES

The South Central Regional Council of Governments (“SCRCOG”) will be accepting sealed Qualifications for On-Call Engineering. SCRCOG is seeking engineering firms to provide “On-Call” services to all fifteen municipalities in the region. Disciplines include, but are not limited to, architecture, civil, electrical, environmental, geotechnical, mechanical, structural, survey, and water and wastewater. Disadvantaged, minority, small, and women-owned business enterprises are encouraged to respond.

NEW HAVEN

CONSTRUCTION HELP WANTED

242-258 Fairmont Ave

LaRosa Building Group is looking for people interested in construction for a project in Hartford.

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

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

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

The complete request for qualification (“RFQ”) document can be obtained on the SCRCOG website, www.scrcog.org.

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

RFQs shall be submitted in the manner specified to the SCRCOG Regional Purchasing Consortium, 127 Washington Avenue, 4th Floor West, North Haven, CT 06473 until 12:00 P.M. local, eastern standard time on Monday, October 3rd, 2024.

Hartford, VLI, and Section 3 residents are encouraged to apply.

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

For applications:

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

Visit the job site at 79 Van Block Ave., Hartford, CT Or join us at our JOB FAIR on Thursday, September 12th, at 75 Van Block Ave. in Hartford at 3:00 PM Or email us at outreach@larosabg.com

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

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

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

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

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

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

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

For questions concerning this RFQ, contact James Rode Director of Transportation Planning at jrode@scrcog.org. SCRCOG is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

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

Listing: Dispatcher

Extremely fast paced petroleum company needs a full time (which includes on call and weekend coverage) detail oriented experienced Dispatcher. A strong logistics background and a minimum of one year previous experience required. Send resume to: HR Manager, P.O. Box 388, Guilford, CT. 06437. Email: HRDEPT@eastriverenergy.com

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

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

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

A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing. cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 3:00 PM.

Pew Research Center Report Uncovers Racial and Political Disparities in Perceptions of Local Crime News

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire @StacyBrownMedia

A new report from the Pew Research Center, as part of the Pew-Knight Initiative, has revealed how Americans perceive and consume local crime news, highlighting significant racial, ethnic, and political disparities. Based on a survey of 5,146 U.S. adults conducted in January and funded jointly by The Pew Charitable Trusts and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the study is the third in a series examining how Americans engage with local news.

One of the report’s key findings is that more Americans get news and information about local crime than any other local topic except the weather. The study found that 71% of U.S. adults often or sometimes receive news about local crime from friends, family, and neighbors, while a nearly identical share (70%) gets this news from local news outlets. This widespread consumption of crime news underscores its importance in the daily lives of Americans, shaping their perceptions of safety and community well-being.

However, the study also reveals that Americans still have not found a single go-to source for crime information. While 26% of U.S. adults first turn to local news outlets, others rely heavily on social media, search engines, or personal networks for updates on crime. These diverse sources influence how crime news is perceived, with notable differences based on where people get information. For example, those who consume crime news from social media or locally focused apps like Next-door and Ring are more likely to believe these sources exaggerate crime levels in their communities. In contrast, those who rely on official sources, such as local law en-

forcement or politicians, think these sources underplay the amount of crime.

The report also highlights that Black Americans are particularly likely to perceive local crime news as biased, especially in terms of racial and ethnic fairness. This perception aligns with previous Pew Research findings that have shown Black Americans to be more attuned to racial bias in both policing and news coverage. Black Americans are also more engaged with local crime news, with 45% reporting that they often get news about local crime—a higher rate than that of Hispanic, white, or Asian Americans. Additionally, nearly half of Black respondents (48%) reported seeing news about violent crime at least weekly, which is significantly higher than other racial and ethnic groups.

Researchers said the consumption of local crime news also is closely linked to concerns about personal safety. The study found that Americans who regularly consume local crime news are more likely to express concern about crime affecting them or their families. Among frequent crime news consumers, 65% report at least some concern, including 33% who are extremely or very concerned. This heightened concern is particularly evident among Black Americans, who are more likely to view crime as a pressing issue for the president and Congress to address. Despite the strong interest in crime-related news, many Americans need help accessing high-quality information. While 85% of respondents expressed interest in understanding what local officials are doing

to address crime, only 22% said it is easy to obtain this information. This disconnects between public interest and information availability highlights a significant challenge in local news consumption.

The report also delves into the emotional impact of local crime news, noting that frequent consumers of such news are more likely to feel concerned, angry, or afraid about what is happening in their communities. However, these emotions only sometimes translate into community action. Only 52% of respondents said they feel motivated to change things in their community after consuming crime news, and just 48% feel confident that things will improve.

Political affiliation also plays a significant role in shaping how Americans perceive

and react to crime news. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to view violent crime as an important national issue, though both groups consume local crime news at similar rates. Interestingly, while both parties rely on many of the same news sources, Democrats are more likely to believe that crime news exaggerates the problem and is biased against certain racial or ethnic groups. Moreover, older Americans, particularly those over 65, are more likely to consume local crime news and perceive the information as accurate than younger adults.

The report also addresses the gap between public perception and actual crime statistics. Despite FBI data showing that property crimes are more common than violent crimes, the public perceives these two types of crime as occurring at similar rates. This discrepancy between perception and reality is particularly pronounced among those who frequently consume crime news, possibly contributing to heightened concerns about personal safety.

Trust in crime news remains relatively high, particularly when the information comes from local law enforcement or news outlets. About 79% of respondents who get their news from local news outlets and 77% from local law enforcement consider the information at least somewhat accurate. However, only a quarter believe that any source provides very accurate information. “Like we find with several local news topics, relatively few Americans are highly satisfied with the local crime news they get,” researchers concluded. “Among those who get local crime news, one-third say they are extremely or very satisfied with the quality of this news. About half (48%) say they are somewhat satisfied, and 18% say they are not too or not at all satisfied.”

In First Major Interview as Democratic Nominee, VP Harris Forcefully Defends Her Record

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, made a strategic decision to sit down for her first major interview since President Joe Biden withdrew from the race, selecting CNN as the platform despite the network’s heavily criticized moderation of the controversial June debate between Biden and former President Donald Trump. In that debate, CNN anchors were widely condemned for allowing Trump to spread untruths and disinformation unchecked. On Thursday, Aug. 29, Harris used that same network to set the record straight and present her vision for America alongside her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

The interview in Georgia during their ongoing bus tour marked a critical moment for Harris, who has lit a fire under a once stagnant Democratic Party and galvanized donors as she’s taken the lead in almost every national poll. Dana Bash, who conducted the interview, opened by questioning Harris about her priorities if she were to win the presidency. Harris, clear and di-

rect, outlined her immediate goals: “On day one, we’re going to bring down the cost of everyday goods, support small businesses, and invest in American families. We’re not going back—we’re moving forward.” Her response was a sharp contrast to Trump, who vowed that he’d be a dictator on day one.

Walz, seated beside Harris, praised the proposed agenda, highlighting its practical success in Minnesota. “The child tax credit, for example, reduced childhood poverty by a third in our state. With a federal partner, the impact could be even greater,” Walz said.

The discussion quickly pivoted to the economy, with Bash pressing Harris on why some Americans might, according to Bash, feel nostalgic for the economic conditions under Trump. Harris responded by highlighting the dire situation she and Biden inherited—a nation reeling from a pandemic, with millions of jobs lost and a collapsing economy. “We inherited a nation in crisis,” Harris said, recalling the early days of the Biden administration. “We’ve brought inflation down to under 3%, but we know prices, especially for groceries, are still too high. That’s why my agenda is

focused on real solutions—tackling price gouging, investing in affordable housing, and providing a $25,000 tax credit for firsttime homebuyers.”

Harris also addressed her past positions on fracking and immigration, clarifying that her views have evolved as she gained more

office experience. On fracking, she stated clearly that while she once supported a ban, she now believes in a balanced approach that doesn’t jeopardize jobs in key sectors.

“In 2020, I made my position clear and kept my word. My values haven’t changed, but my experience as vice president has shown

me that we can achieve a thriving clean energy economy without banning fracking,” Harris asserted.

When the conversation turned to immigration, Harris didn’t hold back in criticizing Trump’s handling of the issue, particularly his role in blocking bipartisan efforts to secure the border. “We had a bill that would have added 1,500 agents to the border and increased fentanyl seizures, but Trump killed it because it didn’t serve his political interests,” Harris said. She pledged to sign that bill into law if elected, underscoring her commitment to enforcing immigration laws with the experience she gained as California’s attorney general. Bash also brought up Trump’s recent comment questioning Harris’s authenticity as a Black woman. Harris responded with a sharp dismissal, labeling it “the same old, tired playbook” and quickly shifting focus back to the issues.

Despite the network’s poor performance during the June debate, Harris’s choice to give her first major interview to CNN was calculated. CNN’s moderators were widely criticized for failing to challenge Trump’s flood of misinformation, a decision that cast a long shadow over the network’s jour-

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