THE INNER-CITY NEWS

Hill Central Students “Stomp” Out A Musical Beat

Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

Jayla Cajigas started the beat, her hands keeping time with an empty Pringles sleeve and upturned pie plate. Bah-buhbuh-buh-buh-buh. Bah-buh-buh-buh-buhbuh. "Go!" she cried, and Francine Van Campen began to tap two wooden spoons on an overturned paint bucket across from her. Just inches away, Sophia Consolmagno joined in, her cutlery doubling as percussion.

The three were among a dozen music makers Friday morning, as third graders at Hill Central Music Academy got a crash course in tempo, rhythm, beat, and dynamics from Kelly Wuzzardo, director of education and engagement at the Shubert Theatre. Held in advance of STOMP's performance at the Shubert in late May, the workshop was a reminder that music can happen anywhere, with anything, if people have the pluck and ingenuity to make it.

"The idea is that you don't have to have expensive instruments to make music," Wuzzardo said as she pulled a wagon of large, upturned plastic buckets down the school's hallway. "It's an access thing. You can have access to music all the time, and we want kids to remember that."

That's especially true of STOMP, which has performed at the Shubert at least three times since Wuzzardo started at the theater in 2003. Founded in 1991, the group uses utilitarian, working-class objects—garbage cans, 30-gallon plastic drums, brooms and buckets—to make music, building soundscapes that are at once recognizable and unique. While the group was born in New York City, it has since become an international phenomenon, performing across the globe.

Friday, it was a reminder that students can make music with what they have, however un-instrumental it may initially seem. When Wuzzardo began teaching the STOMP workshops 14 years ago, she used old pie plates, lost and discarded keys, cookware, and brine-scented pickle buckets rescued from the trash. Many of those items have stuck with her—although the buckets are now clean and color-coded, thanks to funding from ASML for the theater's education programs.

Friday, she stood at the front of Hill Central's elementary music classroom, her feet planted firmly beside a round carpet decorated with musical scales and black-andwhite piano keys. As students fell to a hush, she introduced the workshop with music teacher Rebecca Corbin at her side. Behind them, Corbin wrote the word rhythm in big, green letters on a smartboard.

"What does rhythm mean?" Wuzzardo asked, a swish of purple hair catching students' attention. For a moment, the room was silent. Then a smattering of hands went up, all at once. She pointed to Sophia Consolmagno, a pint-sized self-described Swiftie who later played two dinner spoons as if they were castanets.

"Sound?" Sophia ventured. Wuzzardo tilted her head. It was close, she said, but not quite. She lifted her hands, and clapped

out five beats, each evenly spaced. When the class responded with the same beats, she explained, that was an example of rhythm.

"What about tempo? What does tempo mean?" she asked. In the classroom, a dozen eyes looked back without a sound. Wuzzardo tried a different tack. "Or tiempo? What does tiempo mean?"

Carlos Morales' hand shot up from the second row of chairs, a gentle half circle arranged around the rug. "Time?" he said, the tone inverted enough to make it feel like a question. A smile appeared on Wuzzardo's face. "Exactly!" she said.

She moved on to dynamics, students hanging on to every word as she raised her voice into a bellow and lowered the volume to a whisper just as quickly. Then it was go time. She explained that students would be splitting into groups, each making their own composition in 15 minutes.

"You need a beginning," she said as coffee cans, metal and wooden spoons, large plastic buckets and empty sleeves of barbecue Pringles appeared around the room. "You need a middle. And you need an end." In a group at the center of the room, Jayla, Sophia, and Francine got to work. Hammering out a three-seven-three beat with her Pringles can, Jayla listened, looked up thoughtfully at the ceiling, and then scaled it back.

"We're trying to make a rhythm that kind of makes sense," she said. She tried out a beginning that Francine responded to immediately, and decided that it stuck. "So what we're thinking is that we have to do everything together—"

"Like beats!" Sophia jumped in. Then directing her attention to Francine: "She should go second!"

The three went back to the beginning, a pair of keys jingling in between two alumi-

num pie plates that Jayla had steadied with her right hand. They tailored the rhythm, turning the opening from a three-seventhree pattern to five beats that each musician echoed. As she listened back, mulling it over in real time, Sophia considered a nearby coffee can, its ridges enough to make it into an impromptu güiro.

In what seemed like minutes, they were performing for the class. As Jayla sounded out five beats, her eyes traveled to Francine, the bucket soon part of the beat. In the center, Sophia knocked her spoons together, gentle but insistent. Then at 19 seconds, they bowed their heads, crawled forward, and all beat the bucket drum with their respective instruments. No sooner had they finished than their classmates burst into applause.

"I heard an awesome rhythm," Wuzzardo said. "What did they do well?"

Alice Damian raised her hand, two tiny Puerto Rican flags dangling from her ears. "When they put the spoons together," she said. She noted how Jayla, who started the musicians off, had given a verbal cue for her peers to join in. "My favorite thing is when we make sound and it gets bigger and bigger."

Wuzzardo nodded. "It's really important as a group to listen to each other, right?" she later added, and she could have been speaking to the whole school "An important part of being a musician is working together and supporting each other while you do it."

And for the remainder of the class, students did. Classmates cheered, giggled and clapped when Anderson Zhumi tossed a wooden spoon up in the air, and caught it as a finale to the piece. They admired the calland-response rhythms of students gathered around a red bucket-turned-drum. They jammed in their seats as Sofia Namuche and John Luna turned kitchen utensils into instruments worthy of Carnegie Hall. By the end, they seemed hesitant to part with their instruments and newfound bandmates.

"You all did an excellent job!" Wuzzardo said. "I have one last question for you. What's the difference between music and noise?"

"There's a pattern!" ventured John. "It's not distracting."

Wuzzardo seemed to chew on the words for a moment, and then spoke again. "I want you to listen for the music in your world," she said. It could show up anywhere, she continued, from birds chirping to the sound of motorcycles revving their engines on a city street. "It is all around you."

STOMP will perform at the Shubert Theatre May 31 through June 1. Tickets and more information are available here; the theater has a reduced cost ticket program for all public high school students. On May 11, Wuzzardo will host a final STOMP workshop for families at the Stetson Branch of the New Haven Free Public Library.

Student Anderson Zhumi, who responded to almost every question Wuzzardo threw out to the class.

Alici Damian and Sofia Namuche.

Jayla Cajigas, Sophia Consolmagno and Francine Van Campen, all third graders at Hill Central Music Academy.

Shades Of Support For Connecticut CASA

Mindi Rose Englart, The Arts Paper

There was a feeling of unity in the air as the precise harmonies of Shades of Yale floated over the Donald J. Cohen Auditorium at the Yale Child Study Center. In the audience, supporters of Connecticut CASA listened with open ears.

On a recent Wednesday, that was the sound as roughly 40 people gathered to celebrate Connecticut CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which seeks to give every child who has experienced abuse or neglect a caring, consistent adult to advocate for their well-being. With performances from Shades of Yale, an a capella singing group founded in 1988 to celebrate music of the African diaspora and the African-American tradition, the event raised about $10,000.

With a repertoire of 200 songs, Shades of Yale chose a set of five to inspire the crowd. The group’s carefully-selected mix of well-known spirituals, jazz, and gospel standards spoke to the type of political and community action needed to create change.

How Connecticut CASA Partners Adults with Children in Need

Josiah Brown, executive director of Connecticut CASA, said the organization’s volunteers serve children facing adversity in foster care or under the Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) Protective Supervision.

Program Coordinator Susana Herrera, who joined the organization three months ago, helps train new volunteers and has cases of her own. She said CASA volunteers receive a five week training and then work on only one case at a time.

Herrera, who has a background in education, explained that CASA volunteers are neutral parties who visit with children monthly and make evidence-based recommendations to judges to advance the children’s best interest. They work in partnership with professionals like social workers, attorneys, and educators to identify resources for children and their families.

She said volunteers range in age from their 20s to their 70s and serve more than 100 children in seven of the ten child protection courts in the state.

Brown said the CASA approach is associated with better outcomes for children, who are less likely to return to foster care and who leave the system with more hope than children in similar situations without such advocates.

While waiting for the performance to begin, guests enjoyed drinks donated by the Wine Thief and Better Rhodes, while they mingled and snacked on spanakopita, Mediterranean salad, and cupcakes donated by Claire’s Corner Copia. Owner Claire Criscuolo has been a supporter of Connecticut CASA since Josiah Brown became executive director.

She said she stays committed to CASA because she stays committed to the future. “I think CASA does a really good job,” she said. “I love that it’s small. I love how they have one-on-one contact with the children.”

The most vulnerable people need the most help and kids in foster care and in protective services fit within that category, Criscuolo said.

In addition to staff and volunteers, Connecticut CASA has two ambassadors, Brandon Sherrod and Miye Oni, who inform and engage with people about its mission. Both couldn’t make the event, but Erin Daniels, Oni’s cousin and a student at Yale, came to support.

“I found out about CASA through Miye,” she said. “My sisters and I have trouble finding gifts for him. We decided to start giving donations to CASA in his name.”

Brown said the organization is always looking for committed volunteer advocates and that CASA funding comes from public, foundation, and privately donated dollars. He said his team is currently working to help folks think of CASA during the Great Give, which takes place April 26 through May 2.

35 Years of Songs

Shades of Yale musical director Maxwell Brown and business manager Taylor Robin spoke with community leader Elsie Chapman, who wanted to hear more about the group.

“We work with Black populations to uplift the Black voice.” Brown said. He said they bring music to schools, churches, orphanages and other places where people gather, locally and around the world. “We just came back from Brazil!” He said their group has performed in Costa Rica, Ireland, China and more.

The group offered listeners a time to be bathed in sound and words as Brown conducted the group through a set of five songs, including a stirring rendition of Etta James’s “At Last” sung by Senlee Dieme and “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke, sung by Bobby Hill.

The group received a standing ovation after they closed with their soulful arrangement of “Amen” and “We Shall Overcome,” a medley they sing at the end of every show.

After the concert, Chapman pointed out that often in musical groups she sees, there are mostly white singers with one or two Black singers, while in this group, it was the reverse, with just one white singer.

“It sends a proud message,” she said. “Was that intentional?”

“Absolutely,” Brown said. “We started with a mix and it has evolved and grown. The most important thing is to continue the legacy. You don’t have to be Black to uplift the culture.”

Lindy Lee Gold, Claire Criscuolo, and Dotty Weston-Murphy.

Mindi Rose Englart Photos.

Susana Herrera, Josiah Brown, Carolyn Kinder, Toni Ligon and Mario Chiappetti.

Local high school string quartet to join the pros

TORRINGTON, CT When the touring show Beatles vs. Stones – A Musical Showdown returns to the Warner Theatre on Wednesday, May 8 at 7:00 pm, the Torrington High School String Quartet will join the professional musicians on stage to lend some local talent to this homage to the British Invasion.

The show pits Rolling Stones tribute band Satisfaction against rival Brit boys Abbey Road in an all-out musical showdown for rock dominance. The string quartet will perform six songs with the bands.

Here's the rundown:

The show: The two greatest rock 'n' roll bands of all time face off in Beatles vs. Stones - A Musical Showdown. Taking the side of the Fab Four is Abbey Road, one of the nation's top Beatles tribute bands. With brilliant musicianship and authentic costumes and gear, Abbey Road plays beloved songs spanning the Beatles' career. They engage in a "showdown" of the hits with Stones tribute band SatisfactionThe International Rolling Stones Show, who offer a faithful rendition of the music and style of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and the bad boys of the British Invasion. The production includes multimedia, period costumes and vintage instruments. It has toured for years, with a critic for the Los Angeles Times at one point declaring: "this is the most unique tribute show in decades." The show sold the Warner Theatre to capacity last year.

The string quartet: Torrington High students Rosangel Baez-Batista, Aisley Harrison, Chloe Bayat and Emily Tacuri Penaranda will join the bands for the songs "Eleanor Rigby," "A Day in the Life," "Hello Goodbye," "Hey Jude," "Gimme Shelter" and "Ruby Tuesday."

Quartet members have auditioned for and have been selected to perform at this year's Connecticut Music Educators Association Northern Region Orchestra (CMEA) and

New England Music Festival (NEMFA). Members have also participated in Hartt's Community Division Group: Opus '89. All students are members of the award-winning Torrington High School Orchestra, and Chamber Strings and play with the pit orchestra during school musicals. How the "Beatles" and "Stones" connection was started: The producers of Beatles vs. Stones approached Torrington High Orchestra Director Wayne Splettstoeszer looking for a talented ensemble of high school students which could hold their own with a rock band in front of an audience. The show commonly reaches out to local high school orchestras, making donations to their school music programs in exchange for student participation. The Beatles vs. Stones show hired a Torrington High quartet for a show last year at the

Warner Theatre.

“When we find a strong program like Torrington High Music, we always come back to them,” said Beatles vs. Stones producer Andy Nagle.

“Wayne Splettstoeszer has one of best programs in the country.”

The details: The two greatest rock 'n' roll bands of all time face off as the Warner Theatre hosts tributes to the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Renowned tribute bands Abbey Road and Satisfaction - The International Rolling Stones Show engage in a musical showdown of the hits. The show performs at the Warner Theatre’s Oneglia Auditorium onWednesday, May 8 at 7:00 pm The show is appropriate for all ages.

The quartet’s Beatles or Rolling Stones fans:

Baez-Batista’s favorite Beatles song Is “Eleanor Rigby.”

Penaranda’s favorite Rolling Stones tune is “Gimme Shelter.”

And here is some additional information about Beatles vs. Stones - A Musical Showdown:

Alternating mini power sets with the two bands coming together on stage for an amazing encore makes this show a oncein-a-lifetime event.

For the past decade with more than 1800 performances across the country and abroad, this unforgettable production has been delighting audiences with their talent, warmth, humor and passion for the music of The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. A critic for the Los Angeles Times called it “the most unique tribute show in decades.”

The show pits Rolling Stones tribute band Satisfaction against rival Brit boys Abbey Road in an all-out musical showdown for rock dominance.

Calendar: Beatles vs. Stones – A Musical Showdown returns to the Warner Theatre’s Oneglia Auditorium on Wednesday, May 8 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35 - $65, plus ticket fees, and may be purchased at the Theatre Box Office, by phone at 860.489.7180 or online at www.warnertheatre.org. The Box Office is open Thursday and Friday from 10 AM – 6 PM, Sunday – Wednesday, 10 AM – 2 PM and two hours before performances. The Box Office may also reached by email at boxoffice@warnertheatre.org. The Warner Theatre is located at 68 Main Street, Torrington, CT 06790. The show is appropriate for all ages.

Michelle’s House made a historic journey to the NASA Goddard Space Center in Greenbelt, Maryland

What made the trip so unique was its significance.

Michelle’s House became the first Sickle Cell Disease of America branch in the country to visit a NASA facility, with the intent of introducing Sickle Cell Disease youth to the exploration of space and the application of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in their current and future learning curriculums. This trip was focused on demonstrating the limitless jobs and roles that await the youth as part of investing their time in learning more about STEM and embracing the possibilities.

The day was filled with interesting lectures, views of space via data boards and conversations with multicultural astrophysicists who explained how space and technology helped to shape their lives, and how it translated into the development of many items we use today, from phone cameras to our sleeping comfort! The youth were also able to view the design and testing of NASA’s newest satellite and telescope slated for launch in 2025, which will be larger and provide improved viewing from space (beyond the existing Hubble and James Web Telescopes).

Pre and post surveys of participants on the trip found that there was a significant increase in awareness of STEM after touring the facility, with a 30% increase in youth interested in further pursuit of STEM related education as well as an increase in awareness of what they previously knew about NASA. As a result, Michelle’s House will be working with local universities to support a new initiative that continues the momentum of learning for our clients and families with Sickle Cell Disease and Sickle Cell Trait.

John P. Thomas Publisher / CEO

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

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John Thomas, III Editorial Team

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Christian Lewis/Current Affairs

Anthony Scott/Sports Arlene Davis-Rudd/Politics

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David Asbery / Tanisha Asbery

Jerry Craft / Cartoons / Barbara Fair Dr. Tamiko Jackson-McArthur

Michelle Turner / Smita Shrestha

William Spivey / Kam Williams Rev. Samuel T. Ross-Lee

Contributors At-Large

Christine Stuart www.CTNewsJunkie.com Paul Bass

www.newhavenindependent.org

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QUARTET PHOTO TAGS: “Torrington_stairwell” shows (l-r) Rosangel Baez-Batista, Aisley Harrison, Chloe Bayat and Emilay Tacuri Penaranda

And The Home-Buy Lottery Winner Is

by DEREEN SHIRNEKHI

Seven-year-old Meklit and five-yearold Bethlehem ran around the empty rooms of 455 Howard Ave., dodging the legs of parents and realtors and city workers. This two-family home would soon be theirs.

“We always wanted a big house,” Meklit said, minutes after her father won the Livable City Initiative’s (LCI’s) latest affordable housing lottery. “I always wanted this to happen.”

Meklit and Bethlehem are the daughters of 57-year-old Kostantinos Teklehaimanot, who is now set to buy his first home thanks to winning a Tuesday afternoon lottery hosted by LCI to sell a publicly-funded affordable house.

“It’s big,” Teklehaimanot said with a smile about what this sale means to him.

Teklehaimanot who was joined by his wife, his daughters, his brother, and his realtor at Tuesday’s lottery works for Yale Parking and Transit. He’s been saving up money to buy a house for more than 10 years, and has been in the market for five. He said on Tuesday he’s always lost to other buyers’ offers. Until now.

“I’m very, very excited,” he said, sentiments echoed by Meklit. “I’m very happy.”

Thanks to Tuesday’s lottery, Teklehaimanot won the right to buy 455 Howard Ave. for $240,000. With its two units and new condition, property real estate agent Yvette McNeil estimated that the home’s market value price is around $370,000. Both numbers are much lower than the $690,000 that the Elicker administration paid to have the new twofamily house built.

This is thanks in part, according to LCI Deputy Director of Administrative Services Cathy Schroeter, to the fact that the house is totally solar-powered. The city owns the solar panels (which haven’t been installed yet), so there won’t be any leasing to an outside property. This is the first totally electric, solar-paneled house that the city has ever built.

The $240,000 selling price for the home was determined by the income limit imposed upon those eligible to purchase the city-build property. Only those making 80 to 100 percent of the area median income (AMI) or, up to $112,600 per year for a family of four qualified to enter the lottery

“We’re not looking to house a millionaire,” said Angela Hatley, who has lived in the neighborhood for 38 years and is a member of the Hill South Community Management Team, which collaborated with LCI on the property. The project began in 2020, before Covid, and it is the culmination of desire to keep the neighborhood from being a transitory space.

The house’s deed requires that it be owner-occupied for the next 30 years, preventing what Hatley called a “Mandy-Ocean production.” She hopes that “if you’re invested in where you live,” you’ll care for the area around it.

LCI most recently hosted similar lotteries in 2020 for small-scale affordable multifamily homes that it built on Winchester Avenue and Thompson Street.

The mayor’s budget proposal for next fiscal year, meanwhile, seeks to split off LCI’s affordable housing development work and place it under the purview of a new office to be housed under the Economic Development Administration, so that LCI can focus exclusively on housing code inspections and enforcement.

Teklehaimanot was one of seven prevetted applicants to enter Tuesday’s lottery. Grace Walters, 45, had also thrown her hat into the ring, in hopes of becoming a first-time homeowner.

“A home,” she said when describing what winning Tuesday’s lottery would mean to her. “Somewhere I can put my head, where my kids be safe. Somewhere I can put down roots.”

Walters, who works as a personal care aide at Yale New Haven Hospital, is from Jamaica, and has lived in Newhallville for 14 years. She was joined outside 455 Howard by her 8- and 12-year-old daughters and her real estate agent. She’s been looking for a house since August. Guillermina Duluc, another lottery applicant, said that if she were to win the right to buy Tuesday’s LCI-built house, “It’s going to be a miracle.”

Duluc, a 42-year-old accounting assistant at Yale, currently rents a townhome in the Housing Authority of New Haven’s Twin Brook property with her two kids, a 17 year old and a 15 year old. She said that while she has been looking for a house to buy and make her first home, no other property compared to 455 Howard the affordability and the condition couldn’t be beat.

Emma McFadden, 58, said that if she were to win the house, she’d need to occupy both units she would be joined by both her mother and her children. For her, winning would mean “everything.” She works in customer service and, so far, she’s been renting her home near the border of East Haven.

In the end, the lottery-members clapped for Teklehaimanot and his family when his identification number was pulled from the bowl where it sat among theirs.

After Teklehaimanot received his papers from Schroeter, he and his family joined LCI officials in entering the house and taking a look around. They peeked into sun-filled rooms and the girls claimed their own, and eventually, they made their way upstairs.

DEREEN SHIRNEKHI PHOTOS The Teklehaimanot family (center) hears their name called at Tuesday's housing lottery.

Grace Walters (right) and her real estate agent.

The new haven independent

“Mini Y” Envisioned For West Rock Kids

by ALLAN APPEL

What if a West Rock community center had an art and music space combined with a recording studio? And a gym and boxing area for fitness and a playground for little kids? And an expanded library and upgraded computer center?

Those items and more were very much on a wish list in formation as young New Haveners gathered to look ahead to a future, expanded 295 Wilmot Rd. Family Center.

That 25-year-old building is fairly dilapidated now and struggling with insufficient facilities to serve an estimated 1,000 young people in the heart of the Housing Authority of New Haven’s otherwise rehabilitated West Rock communities of Brookside, Rockview, and Twin Brook.

Two dozen kids from those adjacent enclaves were attending a career training session on Thursday to both prepare for this summer’s Youth at Work job assignments and at the same time to begin to focus on their own short- and long-term life goals.

“Exactly what a Y is” for other communities a kind of all-purpose place for fun, health, training, and supportive services said HANH’s Director of Community Economic Development LaToya Mills, is precisely what they would like to see reborn in their building.

With a recently scored $3 million federal grant, augmenting HANH’s own $2 million, the question of how to turn the smallish, concrete-block current building into a kind of well-lit, welcoming, all-purpose “mini Y” filled the old hallways on a bright Thursday afternoon with a special sense of celebration and optimism.

You could sense it in the “visioning”

session that staffer Taisha Franklin was running: getting the kids to write out goals, short term and long, and then to create “vision boards,” with those expressed goals decorated with augmenting, motivational images cut from magazines, a kind of collage for self direction to hang in each person’s room to help guide their actions.

The Osei-Bonsu sisters, Rachael and Elaine, certainly were buying into the idea.

Elaine, already a top student at Career High School, has her eye on a medical career when she begins college in the fall (either at UCONN or Howard), so she was cutting out images of little babies, although she wasn’t quite sure if her goal is to become an OB/GYN doc or a pediatrician.

Meanwhile her little sister, and Career High School freshman, Rachael, was keeping it more general as she cut out a picture of the Eiffel Tower from The New Yorker. “I want to be rich and to

travel,” she declared, revealing that she’d already saved up $500 for her adventures “Wait,” called out Franklin. We’re distinguishing between short term and long term goals. A long term goal is to graduate from college. A short term goal is to help your parents, for example, to pay a bill.

“Becoming a billionaire?” she inflected the sentence into a question for the group, but with an eye on Rachael. “Goals are not the same as dreams.”

New Haven Academy freshman Isaac

Mateo got Franklin’s idea as well, although he deferred helping his mom pay some of her bills until after he lives in a mansion, which success will be made possible by a successful career as a football player.

“Please put in there,” he told a reporter whom he kindly permitted to read his worksheet over the shoulder, “that I want to become a better Christian as well.”

Another young man, currently working in the center’s offices (and clearly saving his money) wowed his colleagues by saying he’d already fulfilled an important shorter term goal.

Seventeen-year-old Jayden Thompson had bought a car, making it easier to get to his jobs. Actually two used cars, he added. One serviceable old Toyota for work and another car for private, more special occasions.

As the kids nibbled on the pizza slices provided, and continued to fill out their worksheets and vision boards, the room broke into quiet applause.

Mills estimated that easily 80 percent of the young people in Brookside, Rockview, and Twin Rock developments participate in programs at the building, which can grow very cramped on busy days. Also other local organizations key to the community, such as the leadership-training Solar Youth, used to have headquarters at 295 Wilmot Rd. However, scheduling conflicts and serious roof leaks, among other issues, have resulted in their having to find space elsewhere.

Mills said she’d like to have them back, all under a wonderful, secure new roof. Sessions to solicit more specific community input are scheduled for the coming months.

Blumenthal Pushes $234 Billion Zero-Carbon Public Housing Bill

by John Ferraro

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal announced his support this week for a federal bill that would invest over $200 billion in zero-carbon public housing called the Green New Deal For Public Housing Act. Blumenthal is among the co-sponsors of the legislation that would allocate $234 billion over 10 years in federal spending on sustainable, affordable public housing across the country. Blumenthal said that the bill is a chance to improve and continue to build meaningful housing for those who need it, while pursuing the state and nations’ climate facing goals.

Blumenthal said that the amount is still “just a fraction of what we spend on housing every year.”

“We have neglected our public housing, but it offers a dramatic opportunity to make sure that we make that housing

as energy efficient, as well as safe and affordable, as possible,” he said. “People in public housing deserve better.”

With mitigating climate change continuing to be a priority for many in Connecticut and in Washington, Blumenthal said that the bill – which could directly benefit as many as 2 million Americans living in public housing communities – would create almost 300,000 jobs.

“We need to address both the housing and climate crisis through drastic renovation, refitting, and construction of new housing for people right now who don’t have any housing,” he said.

Blumenthal said the positive environmental effects of the bill would be the equivalent of removing 1.2 million cars from the road.

The bill would be focused on transforming and improving roughly 900,000 public housing units nationwide, and would

also:

• Repeal the Faircloth Amendment, which limits the construction of new public housing developments;

• Ensure all public housing is brought up to new safer, sustainable conditions;

• Provide funding to electrify all public housing, and add sustainable energy sources;

• Build new childcare and senior centers, and expand clean public transportation;

• Create community-based work opportunities and increase resident-owned businesses, and;

• Expand resident councils so that public housing residents can take part in discussion.

Speaking in New Haven, Blumenthal said the city is “at the forefront” of sustainable, safer public housing. The senator was joined by Elm City Communities

ALLAN APPEL PHOTO

Rachael and Elaine Osei-Bonsu at the Wilmot Road "visioning" workshop.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal announced this week that he was co-sponsoring a federal bill called the Green New Deal For Public Housing Act, which will invest $234 billion in zero-carbon public housing.

At right is Karen Dubois-Walton, President of Elm City Communities in New Haven. Credit: Screengrab from video / Blumenthal's office

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Re-Entry Financial Literacy Study Launched

by LAURA GLESBY

A new Yale study will provide oneon-one financial guidance to 238 New Haveners transitioning out of prison, while advocating for longerterm change to reduce poverty among formerly incarcerated people.

The initiative, called the Recovery Finance Project, began recruiting formerly incarcerated participants who have struggled with mental health (including substance use disorder) at a press conference on the New Haven Green on Tuesday afternoon.

The program posits that a person’s efforts to recover from mental health and addiction crises and to rebuild their lives outside of prison will have a hard time succeeding without a basic financial safety net.

“There can be no mental health justice, no criminal justice reform, no racial justice… without economic justice,” said program co-founder and Yale psychiatry professor Annie Harper.

Harper and other speakers noted that people leaving prison can struggle to obtain identification, open bank accounts, rebuild their credit, obtain housing, and find employment, in part due to preconceptions that some institutions hold about formerly incarcerated people as well as a lack of assistance in navigating financial programs.

Participants approved for the study will receive personal financial coaching from Winning Ways, a local financial and personal development organization that works with people transitioning out of prison, founded by people who have personally experienced financial hardship after addiction or incarceration.

Half of those participants will also receive peer mentorship from the Yale School of Medicine’s Program for Recovery and Community Health (PRCH), allowing researchers to assess the effects of receiving support from people who have personally experienced mental illness, addiction, and incarceration.

In order to qualify, participants must have exited prison within the last 24 months, be at least 18 years old, and either live or receive services in the city of New Haven.

Within a handful of hours, according to psychiatry researcher Elizabeth Flanagan, at least 80 people had

to be proud of yourselves because this is my community.”

Mayor Justin Elicker pointed out that addressing post-incarceration poverty could lead to less recidivism, by reducing the likelihood that people leaving prison will need to turn to illicit income sources in order to survive.

According to state data, 43 percent of people who left a Connecticut prison in 2019 were re-incarcerated within three years. “Some people say that says something about those people,” said Elicker. “I say that says something about us.”

The city has also piloted a program over the last year offering a monthly payment of $500 to formerly incarcerated people.

Among the 30 or so people who gathered for the press conference included Enico Jones, who had heard about the program on the radio.

filled out initial screening forms for the study.

On top of one-on-one guidance for participants, the Recovery Finance Project will advocate for policy reform and offer trainings to local banks and credit unions on how to better serve formerly incarcerated people.

According to Harper, the trainings will aim to address “discriminatory attitudes” toward people with a history of mental illness, drug use, and incarceration. They will also highlight more accessible programs that banks can adopt, such as accounts that have no overdraft fees, to help formerly incarcerated clients build a stable financial foundation.

The program, housed within the Yale Program for Recovery and Community Health, received a $1.6 million grant from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD).

The Recovery Finance Project has prioritized collaborating with people who have themselves spent time in prison, including by way of a community advisory board.

“Our programs are rooted in lived experience,” said Winning Ways founder Kevin Paulin. “I want y’all

Jones himself had recently gotten out of prison. He said he “definitely” would have benefited from financial coaching, as it was hard to find employment with a criminal record. He is currently applying for a truck driving job, having recently obtained a commercial driving license, he said.

Listening to speaker after speaker tout the new study, Jones found himself skeptical. First of all, he said, “nobody mentioned nothing about the youth” and the people signing up for the program didn’t seem to be very young, in his opinion.

“The youth coming out they don’t have no financial guidance,” he said. “Sign up more younger people to be involved.”

Jones also said he wasn’t sure he fully believed that the services promised would actually be delivered. Lots of people hand out business cards and promise to help without actually following through, he said. Why should he believe the professors running the study?

To earn the trust of people old and young who are getting out of prison, Jones suggested, the Recovery Finance Project should call participants on a regular basis and form relationships with the people they serve.

People interested in learning more about and potentially enrolling in the study can call (203) 764-8602 or email recoveryfinance@yale.edu.

LAURA GLESBY PHOTO Eric Providence of Columbus House, one of the project's advisors, recalled coming home from prison over two decades ago and "knocking on doors" closed shut in an effort to rebuild his life.

Yale Professor Annie Harper with city Community Services Administrator Eliza Halsey and Winning Ways' Kevin Paulin.

Emico Jones: Include young people in financial literacy efforts.

The new haven independent

House Republicans Stretch Out Debate, But Democrats Send Paid Sick Days Expansion To Senate

by Hudson Kamphausen

HARTFORD, CT – House Democrats pushed through an expansion of the state’s Paid Sick Days program Wednesday that will require businesses with as few as one employee to provide paid time off.

Republicans spoke in opposition to the bill throughout the afternoon but eventually it passed on a vote of 88-61 with two members not voting. The bill moves on to the Senate and will also need Gov. Ned Lamont’s signature to become law.

The legislation, House Bill 5005, would expand the program to include the state’s small businesses in the paid time off program, instead of only businesses with 50 or more employees.

The bill calls for a three-year phase-in to require businesses with as few as one employee to provide what was referred to as “paid time off” rather than paid sick leave. The phase-in would include businesses with 25 or more employees in year one, those with 11 or more employees in year two, and then those with one or more employees – including sole proprietor business owners – in year three.

The bill was amended on the floor of the House by its proponent, Rep. Manny Sanchez, a New Britain Democrat who also co-chairs the Labor and Public Employees Committee along with Sen. Julie Kushner, D-Danbury.

The amendment was a “strike all” and

its language now comprises most of the provisions in the bill.

There was also a planned amendment called by Sanchez that established a task force to study the establishment of paid sick leave tax credits for employers with five or fewer employees.

House Speaker Matt Ritter said this week that if a business already provides its employees with 40 hours of paid time off or “vacation days” each year, then that business is exempt from the bill.

Sanchez said the bill is mostly aimed at

Questions about your bill?

providing part-time and low-wage workers with benefits, and to prevent situations in which those workers have to choose between going to work or taking care of a loved one, attending to a sick family member or other personal emergency.

Republicans decried the bill as onerous and taxing on small businesses in the state.

“I’ve never seen anything so reckless,” House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, said.

The Republlicans’ objection to the bill,

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

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

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as with other policies, is that it creates an onerous requirement for businesses in the state. Specifically, they said it puts small businesses – which could otherwise negotiate paid time off with their employees on their own – at risk of paying a penalty if they do not comply with the new law, should it pass.

“This is not good policy,” Candelora said. “This is all politics.”

Candelora’s sentiment was shared by advocates for business in the state as well.

Ashley Zane, senior public policy associate for the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, said the CBIA would have been behind legislation that lowered the threshold to businesses with 30 or more employees. But she said the association believes the strain on small business owners will be too much under the bill passed by the House on Wednesday.

Zane echoed comments from Republican legislators suggesting that employers are already more accommodating to employees than they were in years past. In order to be eligible to earn paid sick time – which is accrued at a rate of one hour per 30 hours worked – an employee must work 120 days in a calendar year.

Effectively, Democrats said Wednesday, seasonal workers are not included in the bill.

That rate is faster than the one that is currently available, Zane said. The cur-

CAREER CONQUER YOUR YOU CAN

rent accrual rate for paid sick hours is one hour for every 40 hours worked.

Some of the confusion and ambiguity surrounding the bill concerns seasonal workers – or workers who work less than 120 days in a calendar year.

Sanchez and Ritter said it is their understanding that seasonal workers would be exempt from the legislation, given the 120-day requirement.

However, Zane said that the CBIA’s interpretation is that an employee will have to work 120 days, not just be employed or on a payroll for that period of time. Candelora pointed out during a news conference Tuesday that a seasonal worker may hit 120 days in separate stints during a calendar year.

Gov. Ned Lamont released a statement following the legislation’s passage through the House, saying that the current program needed to be expanded.

“The legislation approved by the House today strikes an appropriate balance between protecting our workforce while also enacting safeguards for small businesses to ensure that this right is not being misused,” Lamont said. “Especially considering what we learned during the recent outbreak of a viral pandemic, it’s appropriate that we take a look at our existing paid sick days laws and evaluate how they are working and how we can strengthen them. I applaud the House on Continue 0n page 11

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

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

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

Spanish-speaking counselors available.

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Democrats celebrate Wednesday, April 24, 2024, with a photo after passing an expansion of the state’s paid time off law at the state Capitol in Hartford. Credit: Hudson Kamphausen / CTNewsJunkie

Advocates Call For Changes To Police Traffic Stops

by Jamil Ragland

HARTFORD, CT – Advocates and lawmakers gathered inside the state Capitol on a rainy Wednesday morning to call for passage of a bill to reduce traffic stops for less serious infractions.

The legislation, House Bill 5324, would establish a class of secondary traffic offenses that deal primarily with equipment-related and administrative motor vehicle violations. Police would be prohibited from stopping motor vehicles solely due to violations of secondary offenses, but may still enforce them during a traffic stop for a primary offense.

Law enforcement officials and legislative Republicans have criticized the bill, which was added to the House calendar on April 11, and loaded it with 16 amendments that had yet to be called on Wednesday.

HB 5324 came out of a task force that was created by the state’s Police Accountability law, which was signed into law in Connecticut following the murder of George Floyd by a police officer in Minnesota in May 2020. Establishing primary and secondary traffic stops was one of 12 objectives the task force was given to complete. The group consisted of current and former law enforcement officers, academics, and community members.

Under the bill, the following traffic violations would be designated as secondary offenses:

• Tinted windows;

• Incorrect display of license plates;

• Failure to properly illuminate a license plate;

• Having only one red reflector or one working headlight;

• Windshield obstructions;

• Broken Horn, and;

• Poorly positioned mirrors.

Additional violations such as failures to renew licenses and insurance, and failure to change address would also become secondary offenses.

Rep. Steven Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, addressed some of the public safety concerns that have been raised regarding the bill. He said that the bill would help to combat the rise in traffic fatalities and reckless driving across the state by allowing police to refocus on policing for dangerous conduct on the road.

“We want our police officers focused on pulling over folks who are driving intoxicated. We want our police officers focused on pulling over folks

who are driving recklessly on our highways. We want our police officers pulling over folks who’ve engaged in criminal conduct,” he said. “What we don’t want is our police officers focused on pulling over folks for failure to illuminate the rear registration point, or failure to have two reflectors mounted to a vehicle or driving with a partially obstructed view out of a side mirror.”

Charmin Leon, Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives for the Center for Policing Equity, framed the bill as a way to address the state’s problems with recruiting and retaining law enforcement officers.

“Officers who work to engage in more effective crime-reduction strategies do not spend time generating citations in the name of being productive,” she said. “[The need to write many citations] is a false narrative and undermines morale because it places a greater burden on a smaller number of officers. To improve recruitment and retention, we should be prioritizing practices that actually improve public safety, and that is why folks want to be the police.”

Florencio Cotto Jr., president of the Police Officers Association of Connecticut, submitted testimony in opposition to the bill early in the legislative session.

“While I understand the desire to address concerns about discriminatory or pre-textual traffic stops, the provision

in Raised Bill No. 5324 that forbids officers from stopping a motor vehicle for a secondary offense poses significant risks to public safety,” Cotto Jr. wrote. “Traffic stops are a critical tool for law enforcement officers to identify and address violations that pose a threat to public safety … Furthermore, traffic stops often lead to the detection of more serious violations or criminal activity, such as driving under the influence, possession of illegal substances or illegal firearms. By limiting officers’ authority to initiate stops for secondary offenses, this bill undermines efforts to apprehend individuals engaged in illegal activities and maintain the safety and security of our communities.”

Several speakers at Wednesday’s event spoke about the emotional and mental impact of being stopped by police for relatively minor infractions. Luis Mattei, leader of Smart Justice and a formerly incarcerated person, described the terror he experiences during a routine traffic stop.

“After serving 20 years, last year was the first time, actually, that I was ever pulled over. There were no drugs or guns in the car. I was working for a nonprofit organization, I wasn’t on probation or parole, so I had no reason to be nervous,” Mattei said. “But as soon as she got behind me, I froze up. Those lights came on, and my heart started racing. My palms got sweaty, and there I was, a 39-year-old man calling his mom to listen in while this stop was happening.”

He discussed the racial justice aspect of the bill as well, noting that people of color are disproportionately targeted, pulled over, and arrested for minor traffic violations. In the worst case scenarios, Black and brown people have been killed during these interactions. Mattei highlighted Philando Castille, Sandra Bland, and others who were killed during traffic stops.

According to Mapping Police Violence, 86 people were killed by police during traffic stops. In 2021, that figure was 117.

In a statement, the Connecticut State Police said that they would continue to watch the legislation closely.

“The Connecticut State Police is following the actions of the legislature as they pertain to public safety and law enforcement,” the statement said. “While we cannot speculate on pending legislation, we will review any bills regarding enforcement that are passed by both the House and Senate and signed into law by the governor.”

Charmin Leon, Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives at the Center for Policing Equity, speaks in favor of House Bill 5324, which would establish a class of secondary traffic offenses that deal primarily with equipment-related and administrative motor vehicle violations during a rally at the state Capitol in Hartford on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Credit: Jamil Ragland / CTNewsJunkie

During an event at the state Capitol in Hartford on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, says designating secondary traffic violations will free up officers to focus on higher-risk traffic violations like DUI and reckless driving. Credit: Jamil Ragland / CTNewsJunkie

Luis Mattei, Program Director at Smart Justice, talks about the terror of experiencing a traffic stop during a rally at the state Capitol in Hartford on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Credit: Jamil Ragland / CTNewsJunkie

Paid Sick Days

their vote today and I encourage the Senate to approve it so that I can sign it into law.”

Contractors under certain construction worker unions would be included in the bill and expansion of the program, while other freelancers and contract workers would be excluded.

Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding and Sen. Rob Sampson, who is a Ranking Member on the Labor and Public Employees Committee, issued a joint statement criticizing the expansion of the program.

“Each Democrat in the House who voted for this just added to Connecticut’s reputation of being a bad state for business,” they wrote. “This tone-deaf proposal will hurt employers and employees by eliminating their ability to negotiate employment terms themselves. This is Big Government telling mom and pop shops what they must do and forcing them to comply. We look forward to a thorough debate in the Senate and to voting ‘no’ on this job-killing legislation.”

Sarah Ganong, State Director of Connecticut Working Families Power, issued a statement celebrating the bill’s passage, calling it a landmark vote that will broaden access to paid sick days for workers across the state.

“This vote is a significant victory for workers in our state,” Ganong wrote. “The legislation would ensure that workers no longer have to choose between their health and their financial stability, a major step forward in our commitment to workers’ rights. By guaranteeing access to paid sick days, the bill not only supports the well-being of countless families but also strengthens the economic stability of our communities. It ensures that workers can care for their health without risking financial hardship, leading to a more productive and resilient workforce.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: The original version of this story included two references to the Paid Family and Medical Leave program, which is separate from Paid Sick Days. Those references have been removed.

Continue From page 06

Blumenthal Pushes

– which is the housing authority of New Haven – President Karen Dubois-Walton, who said that the bill is exactly what the city and state needs to build high-quality, sustainable housing.

“It is time when we need that real boost, a shot in the arm from our federal government, to re-invest in the housing portfolio, in a way that can bring us to the highest level of energy efficiency,” she said. Dubois-Walton said her organization services about 6,000 families in the city.

The bill has support from numerous housing and environmental organizations, such as the National Low-Income Housing Coalition.

A celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Yale Institute of Sacred Music

“All Creation Sings” Hymn Festival

Sunday, May 5 • 4 pm

Woolsey Hall, 500 College Street, New Haven Free and open to the public. Livestream.

Yale Camerata and community choir

Dr. Felicia Barber, conductor

The Rev. Dr. Barbara Brown Taylor and the Rev. Dr. James Forbes, special guest preachers

Dr. Nathaniel Gumbs and Dr. Bruce Neswick, Newberry Organ

Dr. John Paul McGee, keyboards

Additional accompaniment with brass, percussion, guitars, and a gospel ensemble

Barbara Brown Taylor

Felicia Barber Nathaniel Gumbs

John Paul McGee Bruce Neswick

James Forbes

Photo on left courtesy of Michael Held

City Sets Sights On “Vision 2034”

by LAURA GLESBY

What should be preserved about today’s New Haven in 2034?

“I want the community feel back,” said Angela Hatley, who joined 60 other city residents to brainstorm visions for the city’s future alongside urban planners.

Those residents filled the cafeteria of High School in the Community on Thursday evening to offer input on the city’s forthcoming “Comprehensive Plan” for the next decade.

The city is required to compile a set of urban planning priorities such as zoning considerations, transportation improvements, and climate resiliency goals in a Comprehensive Plan every 10 years. In theory, the plan is intended to serve as a reference document for the Board of Alders and boards such as the City Plan Commission as they make decisions about land use.

The current plan, “Vision 2025,” was adopted by the Board of Alders in 2015 and is slated to be replaced by a yet-tobe-drafted “Vision 2034” plan.

The City Plan Department hosted the first of six public input sessions for this forthcoming plan on Thursday, collaborating with the Hartford-based consulting firm FHI Studios.

There, constituents from across the city discussed big-picture questions about their dreams for the city’s future in small groups, generating a broad array of priorities for the planners to consider.

At one table of about 10 people, the question “What would you like to preserve about New Haven?” prompted a discussion about how urban planners might be able to foster stronger neighbor-

to-neighbor connections.

Hatley, a longtime Hill resident, reiterated that she no longer senses a long-term commitment to the neighborhood from many of her neighbors in the southern section of the Hill.

“There is no sense of community where I live,” she said. “Everyone is transient. They come for six months.”

Hatley argued that this weaker sense of community has led people to live with less concern for one another’s comfort

and safety perhaps contributing to the use of loud illegal dirt bikes near her home, an issue she’s often decried at Hill South management team meetings.

“I feel like as a nation, we’ve moved away from neighborliness,” said Downtown resident Patrick Li. They argued that a growing sense of disconnectedness from neighbors has less to do with individual personalities and more to do with larger-scale trends and barriers. Hatley nodded. “Social media affects that

a lot,” driving people to spend more time online and less time forging face-to-face connections, she said.

Kevin Rivera, who facilitated the table’s discussion on behalf of FHI Studios, suggested one possible remedy that urban planners could implement: investing in “Third Places,” a term for communal gathering spots like cafes or community centers that exist outside of home and work (or school).

When the group assented, Rivera jotted down “third places” onto a giant notepad of ideas for the city’s future.

Six of these parallel discussion groups collectively brainstormed hundreds of priorities, concerns, and ideas about New Haven’s future, ranging from more job opportunities for teens to lower taxes to improved bus infrastructure.

A few themes recurred. Many called for more affordable housing, more homeownership opportunities, and more repercussions for absentee landlords. Many called for stronger bike, pedestrian, and traffic calming infrastructure.

At Hatley, Li, and Rivera’s table, the conversation returned again and again to a divide between two New Havens: one where Yale affiliates tend to live and one where residents are primarily Black and Latino, where smooth sidewalks and green spaces are sparser, where police cars are harder to find.

After Li pointed out that he appreciates how “bikeable and walkable New Haven is,” Fair Haven Heights resident Nicole Davis offered a modification: parts of New Haven are bikeable and walkable.

In her neighborhood, she said, many streets have no sidewalks and cars tend to dominate the road. “The whole eastern side of the city, the sidewalks are bad.”

Li agreed. He examined the paper map of the city laid out on the table and pointed out the sections of town he’s found to be pedestrian and cyclist-friendly to Rivera, who’s based in Hartford. “It’s this green, surrounded by so much wealth,” he said, gesturing to Yale’s campus and the adjacent neighborhoods of East Rock, downtown, and Wooster Square.

The group came to a consensus that litter is a pervasive problem around town, except in the areas around campus.

“Just like the police presence,” interjected Hatley. “Have you ever noticed that?” She said that police tend to be visible around Yale and in wealthier neighborhoods, especially with the Yale Police Department based on campus, and argued that police should be more evenly distributed across the city.

“Up here, where I live in Newhallville, there’s no parks,” noted former alder Steve Winter, who’s serving on the Comprehensive Plan steering committee in his role as the city’s sustainability director.

Rivera jotted down the group’s points on the giant notepad, which Hatley later presented to the entire room. As she relayed the key points, she ad-libbed a little about one of the city’s points of pride right near her home: “We want more diversity in the Long Wharf food trucks.”

A series of polls at the beginning of the meeting revealed that a majority of attendees had lived in New Haven either fewer than 5 years or more than 20 years, and that 57 percent frequently attend public meetings. One question asked whether New Haven should grow incrementally, embrace "significant" change, or stay the same. No one voted that the city should remain as is...

by John Ferraro

HARTFORD, CT (Updated 5 p.m.) – On the same morning that Gov. Ned Lamont helped UConn men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley ring the opening bell on Wall Street, non-profit groups held two events, a rally calling for more funding and a separate march to Lamont’s office to lament the likely death of proposed legislation they said would have helped lower-income residents make ends meet.

“(State officials) are more concerned with how we appear to Wall Street than Main Street,” said Rose Ferraro of the Social Welfare Action Alliance.

The rally, organized by the CT Community Nonprofit Alliance representing hundreds of community-based service providers across the state, drew about 1,500 to the south lawn of the state Capitol.

The bills mourned by the protesters would help fix the “benefits cliff,” instances when a person receiving government benefits

earns slightly more than income limits and loses the benefit. That person’s increased income then does not reach the value of the lost benefit.

The bills will likely die because they need new funding. Lamont and the legislature did not reach agreement on adjusting fiscal controls and the Appropriations Committee chose not to reopen the budget.

Proposals highlighted by the non-profit groups include expanding the HUSKY health program to include children 18 and under regardless of immigration status, the establishment of a refundable child tax credit, rental assistance, and housing voucher programs, phasing out the elimination of asset limits for the HUSKY C program ,and a bill establishing a pilot program to prevent immediate benefits loss from a benefits cliff.

“These bills would have helped mitigate the benefits cliff,” Ferraro said.

Lamont has touted funding for social services in recent weeks, including an additional $35.5 million in state funding to “nonprofit providers across Connecticut for capital improvement projects that support each respective organization in their mission of delivering services to some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.”

The Connecticut Community Nonprofit Alliance has asked for an additional $180 million this year to maintain ongoing contracts.

Gian-Carl Casa, President & CEO of CT Community Nonprofit Alliance, said the message at Wednesday’s really was clear.

“Nonprofit providers, staff, and clients from across the state brought a very clear message to lawmakers and to the governor today to appropriate adequate funding to pay for vital human services,” Casa said.

“The response of lawmakers who joined the rally was very encouraging, and we will continue to bring our message to Hartford until a spending agreement is finalized.”

Angela Hatley with Sarah McIver — loving New Haven's food but worrying about the future of its community culture, and the availability of parking spots.

The new haven independent

THE HILL: MAY 18TH 12:00PM 173-211 Portsea Street

ROCK: MAY 25TH 3:00PM 311 Valley Street

MAY 26TH 2:00PM 130 Bassett Street

DIXWELL: JUNE 1ST 12:00PM 197 Dixwell Avenue

07, 2024

Growing up in the early 1990s, Thuso Mbedu never dreamt of being an entertainment figure. At a very young age, she want-

drama television series ‘IS’THUNZI’ from

‘Cora

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

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

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

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 ing left to give. But fortunately, I received cause the role was mine. I had given up. I was in a very dark place at the time, and the character, the role, the opportunity, was a much needed light. And I told myself that I will act as if it was the last character that I will play. And through a great script and an amazing director, I earned two International Emmy Awards for that role…”

Africans by New African Magazine.

of her parents – Thuso is a Sotho name,

Studio of Acting in New York City.

– TV Movie / Limited Series), the ‘Holly-

the 2021 TV series ‘The Underground Rail-

her role

Randall’ in the 2021 televi-

by Stephen Nartay, Face2FaceAfrica.com

The 2014 Boston Marathon’s true winner, Buzunesh Deba, has yet to receive her $100,000 prize. Deba, who initially placed second, was later declared the winner after Rita Jeptoo was disqualified for doping.

Despite being informed of her victory eight years ago, Deba is still awaiting the full payment, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Deba received $25,000 for placing second, a fraction of the winner’s prize. The remaining $75,000 owed to her by the Boston Athletic Association has yet to be paid. The non-payment is allegedly due to Jeptoo’s refusal to return her winnings. In an official statement, the association explained that “the matter is still ongoing.”

Deba however emphasized that it’s the BAA’s responsibility to fulfill her rightful winnings, regardless of Jeptoo’s actions.

The Ethiopian elite runner has taken a break from her athletic career to focus on starting a family.

She recalled observing Jeptoo’s seemingly unaffected post-marathon condition, only to discover months later that Jeptoo tested positive for EPO, a banned substance. Subsequent investigations by the International Court of Arbitration in Sport revealed evidence of doping in Jeptoo’s pre-2014 marathon samples.

Jeptoo, a Kenyan native, faced a fouryear sanction. Despite this, her victories in 2006 and 2013 remain uncontested.

Jeptoo claimed $150,000 for her 2014 victory and an extra $25,000 for setting a course record, awards legally belonging to Deba. The Ethiopian runner’s time of

After

by Abu Mubarik, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Mellody Hobson is the co-CEO of the first Black-owned mutual fund company in the U.S., Ariel Investments. The company was started by John W. Rogers Jr. in 1983 when he was just 24 years old. Headquartered in Chicago, with offices in New York, San Francisco, and Sydney, Hobson joined the company right after graduating college in 1991. However, her journey with the company started when she interned there alongside T. Rowe Price while in college, according to Fortune.

In her final year, she started preparing to go on interviews for analyst positions at firms in New York City. One day, while sitting in the basement of the then Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton writing her thesis and preparing for one of her interviews, she decided to go directly to Rogers who could teach her a thing or two in the corporate world. “ And I thought, ‘What am I doing?’” Hobson recalled to Fortune. “I can go and work directly with John Rogers, and

At 58 hours, Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya breaks the longest chess marathon

by Stephen Nartay, Face2FaceAfrica.com

2 hours, 19 minutes, 59 seconds remains the fastest in Boston Marathon history.

The BAA’s delay in paying Deba aligns with World Athletics’ guidelines, which mandate repayment of forfeited prize money by ineligible athletes before new payments are made. However, the BAA could choose to voluntarily compensate Deba. The association holds assets of approximately $30 million, as per The Wall Street Journal.

Jeptoo joined Rosie Ruiz, who infamously cut the course in 1980, as one of the few individuals disqualified from the Boston Marathon after crossing the finish line on Boylston Street.

“She took my chance,” Deba said in 2017 after returning to Boston, where she has also finished third and seventh. “I lost so many things.”

Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has set a new record for the longest chess marathon, playing continuously for 58 hours under the bright lights of New York’s Times Square.

Despite the grueling hours, Onakoya remained dedicated to the board. He aims to raise $1 million for charity to benefit chess education for children worldwide. His efforts drew support from hundreds, including Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Davido, who cheered him up during the marathon, according to the BBC. As the chess master pushed through his marathon chess session in Times Square, supporters energized him with classic Nigerian dishes, including jollof rice, and music.

Back in Nigeria, fans rallied behind him on Twitch, a video streaming service, to cheer him on as he conquered the record. Others left messages of admiration and support during the stream, commending Onakoya as a source of inspiration for many.

“Thank you for daring to dream and showing us the levels to which we can all take our brain power to! Well done Tunde! I’m going to pick up my chess board back haha,” one commenter wrote.

“Mr Onakoya is a symbol of excellence and resilience that distinguish Nigerians both at home and abroad… Go, make history, and inscribe our name in gold,” Nigeria’s Vice-President Kashim Shettima posted on X.

“Lagos is rooting for you,” Lagos state governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu told Onakoya, adding that his attempt was “a powerful testament to how greatness can

emerge from anywhere”. Onakoya, aged 29, surpassed the previous Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, which stood at 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds, set by a Norwegian duo in 2018.

Raised in poverty in Lagos’s floating slums, the chess doyen found solace and opportunity in chess, leading him to es-

tablish Chess in Slums Africa, a nonprofit that teaches the game to underprivileged children while supporting their education. He serves on the board of The Gift of Chess, a U.S. nonprofit dedicated to distributing one million chess sets to underserved communities by 2030, aiming to transform lives through the game.

I could sit at the feet of someone who’s so well respected, and he can teach me. I called John from a payphone, and I think I called collect.”

“I said, ‘I’m going to come to Ariel,’ and then I called and canceled my other interviews,” she said. “And all of my friends thought that I was nuts because Ariel was tiny. And they said to me, ‘Why wouldn’t you go to a big Wall Street firm?’ But to me, I thought I could learn from him.”

She got mentored by Hobson after joining Ariel and after spending nearly 20 years in the company, she was named co-CEO in 2019. This was made known in a 25-minute documentary about Ariel, which was produced by McGuire, an award-winning filmmaker and producer, and a New York Times bestselling author.

He touted Ariel’s journey as an “American success story.” “I don’t come from the world of finance, but from a filmmaking perspective, it was just such an incredible story of perseverance, excellence, and trailblazing,” McGuire said.

Speaking on the challenges the company went through during the global financial crisis, Hobson referred to that period as “the worst time in my career; it was a crisis of confidence.”

She recalled traveling with Rodgers when a client canceled a billion-dollar contract it had with Ariel.

“They said they were terminating, and it was a billion dollars,” Hobson recalled. “John and I both went into survival mode, and told them, ‘You should wait. This is the worst moment in the market. You don’t sell now. This is the worst thing you could possibly do.’”

She continued, “I remember, I burst into tears. John didn’t cry, but I was crying. And he said, ‘This is all my fault—I picked the stocks.’ And I said, ‘No, it’s all my fault. I didn’t do a good job of explaining how we invest.’”

Today, Ariel holds $14.9 billion in assets. In addition to her work at Ariel, Hobson, the youngest of six children raised by a single mom, also serves as board chair of Starbucks and a director at JPMorgan Chase.

Mellody Hobson in her early days at the Ariel Investments as discussed

mentary. COURTESY OF ARIEL INVESTMENTS. Photo credit: Fortune

‘I gotta come back’: Dwight Howard to go to the aid of Taiwan after major earthquake claims lives by Stephen Nartay,

By Face2FaceAfrica.com

Former NBA star Dwight Howard has pledged to support Taiwan following this month’s major earthquake and aftershocks, promising to return to the island to assist.

Howard, who signed with Taiwan’s Taoquan Leopards in 2022, expressed his solidarity with the Taiwanese people in a video message on Monday.

“I know a lot of people are still shaken up by just being in an earthquake,” Howard said. “Just want to give my thoughts and my prayers to all the families in Taiwan that were affected.” Howard, 38, said he intends to establish a relief fund for victims of the re-

cent 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan, which claimed at least 13 lives and left over a thousand injured, as reported by TMZ.

“I gotta come back. I would love to come back to Taiwan very soon to help do a relief project for all the fans there. Bring the smiles and everyone to Taiwan just to kinda get your mind shifted.”

Howard averaged over 23 points per game with the Taoquan Leopards in Taiwan’s T1 League, and quickly gained popularity and accolades, including All-Star recognition and MVP honors.

Despite his success, the former NBA

Here’s how much NFL draft’s No. 1 pick Caleb Williams will earn

by Stephen Nartay, Face2FaceAfrica.com

Former USC superstar Caleb Williams has been drafted by the Chicago Bears as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The quarterback was the first to have his name mentioned in Detroit Thursday night; he had been tipped as a top pick following his announcement to go pro.

Though this status comes as no surprise, the development is an exciting period for the franchise, marking the beginning of a new era for the Bears, according to TMZ. Williams showcased exceptional skill during his collegiate career, amassing impressive statistics including 93 touchdowns, 14 interceptions, and over 10,000 passing yards in three years.

His stellar performance earned him recognition as an All-American, the 2022 Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year, and the prestigious Heisman Trophy in the same year.

The Bears have made a decisive move by trading promising quarterback Justin Fields to the Steelers and acquiring star receiver Keenan Allen to complement D.J. Moore.

With these strategic moves, Chicago is clearly banking on Williams to deliver. If Williams fulfills even a fraction of the high expectations placed upon him, the Bears could be looking at a promising future ahead.

How much money will No.1 pick Williams earn on his contract?

Williams will sign a four-year deal that is worth around $38.5 million, according to contract monitoring Spotrac. His contract will also come with a signing bonus of around $24.8 million and it will have a fifth-year team option.

Williams’ contract will be the secondhighest value for a No. 1 pick in U.S. sports. San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama is still at the top as he signed a four-year, $55.17 million deal after he was selected No. 1 overall in the 2023 NBA draft.

Caleb Williams

star signed with Mets de Guaynabo, a professional basketball team based in Puerto Rico, last month.

In 2015, Howard traveled to Charleston to support victims of a church shooting by attending a vigil held there. The incident claimed the lives of nine people.

The basketball star collaborated with Habitat for Humanity and other key stakeholders in 2011 to participate in the rebuilding of homes that were destroyed by tornadoes.

The humanitarian side of Howard has never been absent anytime there is a major disaster that’s connected to his community.

This is how Reggie Bush got his Heisman Trophy back after 14 years

Face2FaceAfrica.com

Reggie Bush has regained his place as the 2005 Heisman Trophy winner after over a decade. The former Southern California tailback gave up his trophy in 2010 after investigations found that he received impermissible benefits during his time with the Trojans, as per the Heisman Trust’s announcement on Wednesday.

“We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” said Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust.

“We considered the enormous changes in college athletics over the last several years in deciding that now is the right time to reinstate the Trophy for Reggie. We are so happy to welcome him back.”

Bush secured the Heisman Trophy in 2005 accumulating over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and scoring 18 touchdowns.

His 784 first-place votes were the fifth

most in Heisman history, as reported by the AP. The Heisman Trust has restored the trophy to Bush and the replica to USC. Bush will henceforth attend all future Heisman Trophy ceremonies.

This decision, according to the Trust’s statement, stems from a thorough review process, considering shifts in college football, notably the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2021 decision that challenged the NCAA’s amateurism model and allowed for athlete compensation; the ability of players to be paid for their name, image and likeness; and the NCAA’s proposal to lift caps on education-related payments.

“Recognizing that the compensation of student-athletes is an accepted practice and appears here to stay, these fundamental changes in college athletics led the Trust to decide that now is the right time to return the Trophy to Bush, who unquestionably was the most outstanding college football player of 2005,” the Trust said.

Former NBA star Dwight Howard. Photo: NBA.com

Reggie Bush Reggie is pictured here with Heisman Trophy Photo: Daveblack/Wikimedia Commons

Donovan Jennings Embraces Switch from Tackle to Guard Ahead of 2024 Draft University of South Florida loses their anchor, in tackle Donovan Jennings

By Percy Crawford

Holding the record for most games played by a University of South Florida Bull (55), Jennings’ days as a Bull may have come to an end, but his indelible legacy is intact, and he moves forward to this year’s NFL draft. The former tackle turned guard put up impressive “Pro Day” numbers and has sparked the interest of several teams ahead of the April 25th-27th draft weekend.

Jennings also impressed during the Shrine game where he played guard and turned heads once again. Already a polished product, Jennings feels he would enter a locker room, prepared to take on a leadership role.

We sit down with Donovan Jennings to discuss his draft day preparation and what it would mean to hear his name called.

What was preparation like for your “Pro Day?”

Jennings: I had a lot of teammates working out for what we call the biggest interview of your life. You just gotta prepare, make sure your process is right. You gotta be locked in. There were a lot of nerves that come along with it of course. You put all this work in for 4,5,6 years, and you just want to put it out in a couple of hours. You want to make sure you maximize every moment, make sure you don’t get too high or too low, and just be you in that moment.

How much did the Shrine game propel you forward during this process?

Jennings: It gave me the confidence that I can go in and play a new position at a high-level. It was a great experience to put on a great Bowl Game. It was a great time, met some great players, and built some great connections as well. It was a great set up and EastWest did a great job.

Moving from tackle to guard, there will be a lot more down blocking and pulling in your future. How important was it for you to play guard in that Shrine game?

Jennings: I played a few games at guard in college, two games, and summer practice, and getting a lot of reps in one-on-ones, but it was good to go against some good guys and get a lot of action in that environment. I think I showcased my athleticism and versatility and showed what I can do at the next level.

We are in the microwave era where we want what we want right now. You being a 6-year guy, coming in with so much experience, that used to be applauded, but now I feel like you have

Jennings: My family is involved. I always reach out to them. My very close friends. My coach, Coach Hudanick, he’s been my coach at USF for a long time. He’s really been giving me guidance, tips, and encouragement that could help me as well.

Have you wrapped your mind around potentially hearing your name called on draft day?

Jennings: I’m still focused and grinding, and taking each day as they come, but as the day comes closer, you start feeling it more. It starts to become real. When that day comes, just hope for the best and just go from there.

For any team that takes a chance on Donovan Jennings, what type of person and player will they be getting?

Jennings: Man… a hardworking, committed, consistent, and nasty offensive lineman who is going to come in and work hard, who will try to get better, learn, and lead. They will get a person who cares, a genuine person who actually wants to talk and listen, and just a great guy.

Have you studied any lineman to grab some skills and techniques from?

Jennings: I would say early in my career, my true freshman year in college, it was just me. I was focused on me, grinding, and focusing on football. Going into football, expecting nothing out of it, just trying to get better every day. I started a few games as a true freshman, and I definitely started picking up some tips that other offensive lineman did. A lot of college offensive lineman at first, but then guys like Tristan Wirfs, Jason Peters, and all the greats. Tyler Smith, he was in our same conference when he played for Tulsa, so seeing him work was great. How did you walk away from your “Pro Day” feeling?

a point to prove when you come in experienced. How do you revive that through your play?

Jennings: I’m coming in as a leader. Obviously, I’m not saying I’m established but I’m a well-polished offensive lineman just looking to perfect his craft. I come in with a lot of experience. I played in 55 games. Consistency and availability is the best ability, just know that that’s what I bring. If I’m blessed enough to get drafted, you’re getting a consistent, hardworking lineman, no matter what comes his

way. No matter whether it’s an injury, I bounce back quickly, and that’s what they can expect from me.

You had several opportunities to transfer with many takers, your loyalty to South Florida says a lot about your character.

Jennings: For sure! USF is my home, it’s where I played and got my degree from, and the one place I will always call home. I wanted to create a winning environment and set a foundation. We went from 1-11 to 7-6. We could’ve had a better season, but it set

a foundation for years to come. It was cool having a full circle moment. We went 7-6 my true freshman year, being ranked #22, after starting 7-0. We went through some ups and downs after that, so being able to bounce back, won our Bowl Game. So, whatever team drafts me, I will be coming in with a loyal mindset. My mind will be on winning a Super Bowl, being a better teammate, and hoping to start in the NFL for years to come. Have you had someone walk you through this process?

Jennings: For me personally, you always think you can do a little better. I definitely wanted to get 30 plus on bench. I wasn’t able to but 28 is still a solid number. From all the work I put in throughout the draft process, to run a 4.9 (40-yard dash), I gave it everything and I was blessed to be able to do it. You could always do better but I’m happy with the result.

What would it mean for you to hear your name on draft day?

Jennings: Man, if I was to get drafted… woo. It would be a surreal moment. Just hearing my name after all of the hard work me and my family put in, it would be a surreal moment.

The former tackle turned guard put up impressive “Pro Day” numbers and has sparked the interest of several teams ahead of the April 25th-27th draft weekend. Jennings also impressed during the Shrine game where he played guard and turned heads once again. Already a polished product, Jennings feels he would enter a locker room, prepared to take on a leadership role. We sit down with Donovan Jennings to discuss his draft day preparation and what it would mean to hear his name called.

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR BID HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF DANBURY

NOTICE

Chimney Cleaning and Repair Services

Financial Manager/Office Manager

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

IFB No. B24004

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN:

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

Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B24004, Chimney Cleaning and Repair Services

Attn: Lisa Gilchrist, Purchasing Agent

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.

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

May 13th, 2024 at 10:30am (EST)

NOTICIA

CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT:

Lisa Gilchrist – Purchasing Agent

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Telephone: 203-744-2500 x1421

E-Mail: lgilchrist@hacdct.org

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

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

Listing: Retail Representative

Petroleum Company has an immediate part time opening. Excellent customer service skills a must. Requirements include: assist in answering service questions, scheduling service calls as well as assisting in collections and account set ups. Applicant to also perform administrative/clerical tasks as assigned. Please send resume to: H.R. Manager, Confidential, P O Box 388, Guilford CT 06437. or HRDept@eastriverenergy.com

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave

2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1

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

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for an Information Technology Manager (IT Manager 1) in the Office of Finance.

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at:

https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 240402&R2=1561MP&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.

WANTED TRUCK DRIVER

Galasso Materials is seeking a Financial Manager/Office Manager to replace a retiring team member. The candidate needs leadership skills & experience in accounting & tax compliance. CPA, manufacturing and/or construction experience preferred. 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.

The Town of Wallingford, CT is accepting applications for the following positions:

Attendant I (Trainee). This is a trainee position leading to a career in performing skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Town’s wastewater treatment facility. The position requires a H.S., trade school, vocational school, or H.S. equivalency diploma. Must possess a valid Connecticut Driver's License. Hourly rate: $22.97 to $25.22. The closing date for applications is the date the 50th applilcation or resume is received or April 30, 2024, whichever occurs first.

Electrical Technician. Performs skilled work in the repair, maintenance and calibration of all electrical and electronic equipment pertaining to the wastewater treatment plant in the Town of Wallingford. Applicants should possess a H.S. or trade school diploma and 2 years of related college education or specialized maintenance training and 4 years of experience in the repair and maintenance of electrical and electronic equipment; or a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field plus 1 year of experience. Must possess a valid Connecticut Driver's License. Hourly rate: $32.24 to $36.79. The closing date for applications is the date the 50th applilcation or resume is received or May 7, 2024, whichever occurs first.

The Town offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and deferred compensation plan. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be faxed or mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the closing dates specified above. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

Truck Driver with clean CDL license

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Financial Manager/Office Manager

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

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

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

Galasso Materials is seeking a Financial Manager/Office Manager to replace a retiring team member. The candidate needs leadership skills & experience in accounting & tax compliance. CPA, manufacturing and/or construction experience preferred. 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.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Listing: Outside Sales & Estimator Position

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

$73,220 - $89,002/yr. Required testing, general info, and apply online: www.bristolct.gov

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

HVAC department has an immediate opening. Responsible for all aspects of HVAC estimation which includes system design, sheet metal, piping, and organizing vendor information. This candidate must be well organized, hands-on, self-motivated, dependable and work independently. Minimum of 5 years of sales/estimating experience. Must have the ability to read and comprehend blueprints. Must have knowledge of HVAC systems. Must have Microsoft Office knowledge.

DEADLINE: 12-04-23

Send resume to: HR Manager, P. O. Box 388, Guilford, CT 06437 or email HRDept@ eastriverenergy.com **An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

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

Construction

REQUEST

FOR BIDS

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

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) 6211720 or send resume to: Personnel Department, P.O. Box 368, Cheshire, CT06410.

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

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

PVC FENCE PRODUCTION

Sale of Surplus Rolling Stock New Haven, Connecticut New Haven Parking Authority Project #24-024

Bids

Bid Documents will be available beginning April 1, 2024 at no cost by downloading from the New Haven Parking Authority/Park New Haven website at https://parknewhaven.com/request-for-bids/ or visit the Temple Street Garage Office at One Temple Street, New Haven, CT to obtain a copy.

New Haven Parking Authority is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

NOTICIA

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Union Company seeks:

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

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com

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

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

TOWN OF EAST HAVEN PURCHASING AGENT

NEW HAVEN

The Town of East Haven seeks a qualified candidate to serve in the position of Purchasing Agent. This is a highly responsible position involving purchasing and directing the purchasing functions of the municipality. Qualified candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field preferably including or supplemented with special course work in purchasing/municipal bid processes and materials management plus five (5) years’ of progressively responsible purchasing work or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience. Must have valid class 3 Connecticut Driver’s License. The salary for this position is $62,841/year, 35 hours per week and the Town offers an excellent benefit package. Please send cover letter and resume with references to: Town of East Haven, Ed Sabatino, Assistant Director of Administration and Management, 250 Main Street, East Haven, CT 06512 or jobs@easthaven-ct.gov. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. The Town of East Haven is committed to building a work force of diverse individuals. Minorities, females, handicapped and veterans are encouraged to apply. The Town of East Haven is an equal opportunity employer.

242-258 Fairmont Ave

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

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

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

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

Andrea M. Liquori / Chief Examiner Civil Service Commission 250 Main Street East Haven  CT 06512 (203)468-3375

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Invitation for Bids

On-Call Electrical Services

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

Water quality inspector

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

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.

Senior Sales Representative

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.

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Penfield Communications, Inc. Publishers of The Inner-City News Weekly Print Publication is seeking a Senior Sales Representative The Inner-City News is a legacy, Black owned print publication, celebrating 30+ years as Greater New Haven’s urban news and information outlet.

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

The Inner-City News is a weekly print publication with a readership spanning across Greater New Haven. From Hamden, New Haven, West Haven, Stratford, Milford, Bridgeport. This free weekly print publication is committed to sharing news and information important to the Black community.

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.

Performs responsible specialized work in protecting the quality of the water supply and distribution system for the Town of Wallingford, CT. Applicants should possess an Associate's degree in an environmental science or sanitary engineering plus 3 years of progressively responsible experience in a water utility, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience. Must possess a valid Connecticut Driver's License. Must have, or be able to obtain within the probationary period a State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Class I Water Treatment Plant or Distribution System Operator Certification, including Certification as a General Backflow Preventer Tester and Cross-Connection Survey Inspector. Hourly rate: $28.33 to $34.42. The Town offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and deferred compensation plan. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be faxed or mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the date the 50th application or resume is received or the closing date of April 30, 2024, whichever occurs first. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

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.

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. Full time experienced welder

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

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.

Town of Bloomfield

STATE OF CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

NOTICE

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

DRAFT 2025 STATEWIDE TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

In accordance with the provisions of Title 23, Section 135 of the United States Code; as amended by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA); the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has prepared a draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).

The draft STIP compiles all highway and public transit projects that CTDOT intends to pursue over the next four years, utilizing Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding. STIP documents can be found on the CTDOT website, at CTDOT Headquarters, and at all Councils of Government offices. It is suggested to schedule an appointment at these locations. To make an appointment at CTDOT, please call (860) 594-2040.

Salary Range:

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.

NOTICIA

CTDOT is conducting two hybrid public informational meetings regarding the draft STIP on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at CTDOT Headquarters, 2800 Berlin Turnpike in Newington. Both meetings will also be held on Zoom; registration is required. To register, please visit https://portal.ct.gov/DOT/ PP_Bureau/ConnDOT-Plans/State-Transportation-Improvement-Program

VALENTINA

MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES

DISPONIBLES

CTDOT staff will be available 30 minutes prior to each meeting to informally discuss the draft STIP with members of the public.

Language assistance and/or ADA accommodations are provided at no cost to the public, and efforts will be made to respond to timely requests for assistance. Persons needing language assistance or ADA accommodations may request assistance by contacting CTDOT’s Language Assistance Line at (860) 594-2109, at least five (5) business days prior to the meeting. Persons with a hearing and/or speech disability may dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) and instruct the operator to contact (860) 594-2243.

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

Parking is available in the rear of the building. The meeting facility is ADA accessible, and persons with disabilities can access the building from the main entrance of the building.

The draft STIP will be available for review for a 30-day public comment period from May 1-31, 2024. Comments from the public must be received on or before May 31, 2024. Comments should be emailed to DOT.STIPComments@ct.gov, or mailed to Maribeth Wojenski, Bureau of Policy and Planning, Connecticut Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 317546, Newington, Connecticut 06131-7546.

NEW HAVEN

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

$87,727 to $136,071 Deputy Finance Director/Controller

Pre-employment drug testing. AA/EOE.

For Details go to  www.bloomfieldct.org

Town of Bloomfield Finance Director

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

Fully Benefited – 35 hours weekly

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

Portland

Police Officer

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

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

APPLY NOW!

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

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

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.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Proposal Documents will be available beginning May 1, 2024 at no cost by downloading from the New Haven Union Station Partnership website at https:// unionstationnewhaven.com/bids-and-proposals/.

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.

NHPA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Listing: Mechanic

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

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016

Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

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

Slutty Vegan’s

By Face2faceAfrica.com

isha ‘Pinky’ Cole-Hayes, the founder of Slutty Vegan, offered to sponsor Benjamin E. Mays High School’s 2024 prom, according to Atlanta Public Schools. Pinky Gives Back, the entrepreneur’s foundation, will provide funding for the April 27 program, which will assist with the prom experience for students including food, décor, a DJ, and souvenirs. She told the district, “I was the prom queen at my high school, and I cherish the memories I created at my prom. It is important for me to support my community by helping people have experiences that will impact them for the rest of their lives, and I hope that my contribution does just that,” per 11Alive.

When Cole-Hayes visited the school last Monday, she said to the pupils, “I’m paying for the entire prom so you don’t have to pay for nothing.” She then gave the school a check for more than $10,000. Along with providing dresses and tuxedos for those in need, the organization is also covering the cost of makeup for a select few students. Apart from covering a part of every student’s prom ticket costs, the organization is also contributing hygiene kits and haircuts for male students. The student body president, Tamar

don’t have to pay for nothing’ by Dollita Okine,

Amanda Seales Just Announced She Has Autism – Here’s Why So

Echols, expressed relief and gratitude at her donation, saying, “Everybody can’t afford prom, so because everyone can’t afford prom, it’s kinda, a thing of, am I going to go or not. And, so when you get the news that a big black company is sponsoring your school, it just kinda gives you, a thing of relief, that now I can go.”

The mompreneur highlighted that since many of the students contributed to her success, helping them out is the least she can do.

Cole-Hayes declared that she wants the students, “to be able to walk away from this prom experience knowing how important it is to pay it forward when you elevate, when you realize their wildest dreams, they’ll know to come back to a Mays High School and help out. They’ll know to find a community that’s in need of support and support them.”

The Atlanta-based Pinky Cole Foundation is committed to empowering young people of color using various initiatives. The foundation has given financial support to encourage financial literacy, fight poverty, and support entrepreneurial endeavors since it was established in 2019.

Cole-Hayes also recently paid 30 students’ full tuition at Clark Atlanta University and helped out local businesses that were having trouble paying their rent.

Many Black Women Go Undiagnosed

Experts say "autistic Black girls are effectively invisible in the current scientific literature.”

ByKeyaira Boone, BlackHealthMatters.com

Amanda Seales announced that she was recently diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum on social media and during her appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast.

Seales, a comedian and actor, is in her early forties. Her discovering this information later in life is reflective of autism diagnoses for Black women. According to the Autism Journal, “female and Black populations in the United States are diagnosed later.” The publication declared that “autistic Black girls are effectively invisible in the current scientific literature.”

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as “a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. The organization noted, “People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention.” Seales posted a clip to her social media that highlighted the need for express clarification associated with being placed on the autism spectrum. The National Institute for Mental Health explains that “Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience.” These

symptoms include “difficulty with communication and interaction with other people.”

People who are on the autism spectrum are neurodivergent. This is a comprehensive term that refers to people whose brains function differently. The history of the term is connected to empowering those it refers to. Harvard Health said, “The neurodiversity movement emerged during the 1990s, aiming to increase acceptance and inclusion of all people while embracing neurological differences.” The movement has been successful in increasing media representation, but the face of that representation has been consistently White and male.

Frontiers in Psychiatry published a study focused on how stigma experienced by autistic adults relates to metrics of social identity and social functioning. It found that “almost half of autistic individuals experience some form of victimization in their lifetime, including bullying and other forms of stigma.”

The Autistic Girls Network states that “the assessment tools used for diagnosis and research in the field of autism have almost always been developed from research using predominantly male samples.” Progress in the rate of diagnosis for Black children overall is advancing slowly, according to the CDC, but the gaps in the research get even wider as it pertains to Black girls. Bria Herbert, diagnosed

at 19, shared her experience with The 19th. “Autism and most mental health disorders present differently in Black women,” Herbert told the independent publication. “Because autism is looked at through such a White and male lens, people don’t recognize similar behaviors with traditionally feminine or Black interests.”

Daniel Jones of The Aspie World dedicated an entire episode of his YouTube show to recognizing the way that Black women and girls are excluded from the discourse surrounding autism. Celebrity advocates for autism research include Toni Braxton, Shawn Stockman, and Holly Robinson Pete, who discussed the topic on Seales’ podcast Small Doses in April of 2021. April is Autism Awareness Month, and as awareness is raised and information is spread, the experiences of Black women and girls must be included in efforts to continue learning about the spectrum. Advocates and academics are arguing for their inclusion in different spaces.

A paper published in the Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders stated, “Growth in autism research necessitates corresponding attention to autism research ethics, including ethical and meaningful inclusion of diverse participants.” It said that “the exclusion of marginalized subgroups of people with autism is a major ethical concern.”

7 Ways You Could Be Making Your Spring Allergies Worse.

BlackHealthMatters.com

In some parts of the country, the 2024 spring allergy season started two to three weeks early. You know what that means: We already feel pollen’s effects. And it may sound crazy, but our habits could inadvertently make things worse! Here are a few little-known things that could make us extra miserable this spring.

1 Stressing out. Studies show high levels of stress are associated with allergy attacks. So whether you need to meditate, schedule weekly massages, or rebalance your workload, find a way to loosen up.

2 Eating fruit. Spring and juicy fruit seem to go together, but 1 in 3 people with seasonal allergies also have oral allergy syndrome, in which the proteins in some raw fruits and veggies can make your mouth itch and your eyes water. Are

photo: Amanda Seales

you allergic to grass? You might have issues with peaches, tomatoes, and potatoes. You could react to apples, cherries, and celery if you’re allergic to alder or birch trees.

3 Showering in the morning. From your hair to your clothes to your shoes, you pick up pollen as you move throughout your day, and wearing your outside clothes in your house drags it all into your home. Change your clothes and shower when you get home to avoid breathing in that pollen while you sleep.

4 Opening the windows. Whether in the car or at home, throwing open the windows invites pollen right into your (itchy) nose. Use the air conditioner whenever possible; recirculate the air in your car and use an allergen filter in your home.

5 Wearing contacts. They aren’t just

irritating your eyes—soft contact lenses absorb pollen, which can trap it right in your eyes. You might want to pull out your frames until the season is over. Can’t part with your contacts? Use daily disposables.

6 Waiting to take your meds. The sooner you start your over-the-counter allergy medication, the more effective it will be. Don’t wait until you’re already miserable to pop your first pill of the season; take one as soon as you see the flowers start to bloom.

7 Having a plant. You probably know it’s counterproductive to buy cut flowers, but studies show about 75 percent of hay fever sufferers are also allergic to some houseplants. It might pay to leave the greenery outside, particularly ficus, ivy, palms, ferns, and orchids.

Students, Faculty, and Alum Urge Morehouse to Rescind Biden’s Commencement Invite

By Stacy M. Brown, Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

President Joe Biden’s upcoming commencement address at Morehouse College has ignited controversy among students and alums.

On Tuesday, Morehouse students gathered in a campus auditorium to protest the college’s decision to invite Biden to deliver the commencement address next month.

The dissatisfaction extends beyond the student body. Alums, Morehouse, Spelman, and Clark Atlanta University officials are urging the college to rescind its invitation.

In a letter on Wednesday, concerned alums criticized Biden’s role in a recent foreign aid package, which included funding for Israel’s conflict with Hamas. The letter highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning Biden’s leadership as contributing to the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians. The alumni called on Morehouse to stand against injustice and not allow its platform to be used to “launder consent for genocide.”

Faculty members from the three Atlanta institutions expressed similar concerns, questioning the decision to invite Biden to a historically Black college, especially given Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy as an advocate for social justice.

“Like any group of alumni of any college or university, political and ethical commitments among us are not unanimous,” the alum wrote. “There are many among us, however, who stand on the prophetic vision of our most famous alumnus, who said in 1967 that war is a hell that diminishes us all as human beings and that our moral conscience compels us to speak out against it.”

The concerned alumni invoke one of

the college’s most famous graduates. “In inviting President Biden to campus, the college affirms a cruel standard that complicity in genocide merits no sanction from the institution that produced one of the towering advocates for non-violence of the 20th century in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. If the college cannot affirm this noble tradition of justice by rescinding its invitation to President Biden, then the college should reconsider its attachment to Dr. King.”

The alumni went on to say that the decision to have the president speak for commencement is harmful not just to Palestinians but to all those associated with the prestigious higher learning institution.

“Nobody wins in this. Not our precious brothers on campus, who are most certainly being used as a step stool for President Biden’s political ambitions. Not faculty, who are already up against insti-

tutional pressures to remain silent. And certainly not Palestinians, who, lest we forget, are the reason students and many faculty are protesting in the first place,” they explained.

The alumni also suggested that Morehouse not only refuse Biden to serve as commencement speaker but divest from all companies that do business with Israel. “Should the college continue down this course, we urge our fellow brothers across the Morehouse community to make your dissent known. We urge our community to recall the lesson we all heard over the course of our time at the college, which is that the bells toll for our moral leadership. Justice compels us to work to bring this genocide and brutal occupation to an end.”

Biden’s Foreign Policy Under Scrutiny Biden’s foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict, have sparked protests on uni-

versity campuses nationwide. The president recently signed a $95 billion war aid measure, allocating approximately $26 billion to Israel and $1 billion in humanitarian relief for Palestinians in Gaza. Despite calls for a ceasefire, Biden emphasized the need for Israel to provide swift humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Biden’s voter base has criticized his foreign policy choices, which could impact the upcoming elections. Additionally, Morehouse received criticism for selecting Biden as its 2024 commencement speaker.

“We understand that the decision to platform Biden was made solely by the Morehouse administration and that students and faculty members were not consulted,” Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine’s Georgia chapter wrote. “College and university administrators have an obligation to include students and faculty members in decisions that will affect

them. This decision will do lasting harm to everyone associated with the college. Further, the Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine-Georgia emphasized that having Biden as the commencement speaker was detrimental not only to Morehouse College’s reputation but also to other Atlanta institutions.

“It will do serious reputational damage to Morehouse and other schools in the Atlanta University Center consortium. It will alienate donors. It will discourage new applications from a generation of youth that overwhelmingly supports a ceasefire. It will prompt significant protests among current students and faculty, subjecting them to discipline and, potentially, dangerous confrontations with the police,” the group explained. “It is not too late to correct the course. There is no reason why Morehouse cannot rescind this invitation. Indeed, the college must do so.”

It’s time to put “live my healthiest life” closer to the top of your priority list. One great way to start is to schedule your next medical and dental checkup, screening or immunization.

If you have health and dental coverage, make sure you know your benefits — and make sure you use them. They can help you stay healthy and may uncover health issues before they become more serious.

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

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

The New Haven Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (NHE3) is a business-support network partnering with entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) to build an inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem for historically marginalized entrepreneurs in Greater New Haven.

With a focus on funding BIPOC-and Woman-owned businesses, NHE3 intentionally provides grants to help small businesses thrive.

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

3rd round opens on Mar 1st and closes April 30th (review and awards: end of May)

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