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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08,2016 2023 - -August November 2023 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 02, 14, 2016

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Arts Awards Fetes Creative Futures Amid Arts “Crisis” And “Renaissance”

by KAREN PONZIO The new haven independent On Saturday night, the Arts Council of Greater New Haven’s 43rd annual Arts Awards honored six of New Haven’s creative minds — Juanita “Sunday” Austin, Ruby Gonzalez Hernandez, Adrian Huq, Sun Queen, Possible Futures/Lauren Anderson, and William Graustein — at the John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts at Southern Connecticut State University.

In the shadow of a multitude of changes this year in the city’s arts scene, which continues to be reimagined and restructured, these six recipients — who have each added to that scene in multiple ways far beyond their own creations and personal accomplishments — offered speeches that touched upon the personal, the profound, and the importance of caring for one another in the local arts community and around the world.

The theme of the night was “Creative Futures,” a topic not only addressed in the speeches but in many of the outfits the attendees wore. Arts Council Executive Director Hope Chávez and Board of Directors Chair Babz Rawls-Ivy hosted a pre-show red carpet event in the lobby that was also recorded live for virtual attendees. The hosts spoke to the awards recipients as well as arts lovers of all ages about their fashion choices, the future of art, and so much more, having an absolute blast of a time getting the ever-growing crowd ready for the night ahead.

The ceremony began with a four-song set by the New Haven-based Love n’ Co, performing as a duo with vocalist Lovelind Richards and Lamar Smith on guitar.

They offered the audience a sweet and spicy cup of soulful stirrings that warmed everyone up for the rest of the night.

Richards also offered gratitude as well as inspiration to the crowd.

“I say you can do anything … tonight’s a beautiful remembrance of that,” she said.

Hosts F.L.Y. Ty and Arleny Abreu welcomed everyone with an abundance of joy and enthusiasm, working throughout the night to raise the vibe and introduce each recipient before each award. In addition to the introduction, each recipient had a short film shown in their honor.

Those films included family and friends singing their praises interspersed with snippets of the photo shoot each took part in with Lotta Studios for this event.

Curator and cultural producer Juanita Austin was first to be honored. She said that being there felt “surreal” after finishing her latest project, the two-month long 6th Dimension Festival in New Haven, only last week.

“To be here celebrating creative futures … the way the world works and comes around is beautiful sometimes,” she said.

Austin, who came to New Haven from New London, called the community “so

provides me with a sense of connection, joy, and passion which I feel I cannot derive if I went and organized on a larger scale,” they said.

“In New Haven I’ve learned the true meaning of community. It is not a word I throw around or take lightly, or is something that is abstract for me. I feel it when we show up at Board of Alders and Board of Education meetings to demand change. I feel it in the crowd of protestors when we organize on pressing social issues and call out injustices whether local or global. I feel it when we create channels through mutual aid and show each other love. I feel it when we support each other’s movements, businesses, and endeavors, and right here, I can feel it as we support and foster a vibrant arts and culture scene.”

Poet, artist, activist, and organizer Sun Queen (a.k.a. Lauren Pittman) asked everyone to take a minute before her speech “for all the Black women and Black girls who had dreams and never made it home, never got to fulfill their dreams and passions.” Offering words as poetic as the verses she regularly shares live throughout the community and in her book It Happened Within the Sun, she spoke of gratitude and strength, but also of the occasional trepidation.

“Sometimes I feel lost and I get lost in this journey, but I never give up and I never will,” she said.

“I hope we all continue to inspire, dream big, and create. Create a better world through art. Creativity for me has been my waterfalls, my sun rays, and my therapist.”

She ended by reminding the audience — many of whom shouted out their support throughout her speech — that everything they do (“you live, you breathe, you walk, you talk, you communicate”) is creating art.

KAREN PONZIO PHOTOS. The 2023 Arts Awards recipients.

welcoming, so refreshing, so inspiring.”

She added that she was “excited to be here to create, to innovate, and to contribute to this arts community.”

After thanking her friends, family, and the Arts Council, she added, “here’s to the future.”

Indigenous Zapotec artist Ruby Gonzalez Hernandez, who also works as an educator, youth mentor, community activator, and curator, came to the podium with words of gratitude for her mother, who she thanked for “understanding why this work calls me”; her friends, “who remind me that living is breathing”; and the team at CCEIO (Co-Creating Effective & Inclusive Organizations), who “have walked me to doors I didn’t know I could open on my own inside.”

She also offered that it was “hard to celebrate” this evening with what was going in the world, mentioning that she wanted to put the need for a ceasefire in Gaza at “the forefront of your mind,” for which she received applause. An audience member responded during the silence with one word: “fearless.”

Gonzalez Hernandez elaborated on her concerns about local issues in the art community as well.

“I’m concerned about the safety of artists in Greater New Haven in nonprofits and art institutions,” she said, adding she was “deeply concerned” about places not believing artists “when they say they are being harmed,” and the use of nondisclosure agreements “to keep harm from being known instead of recognizing, reckoning, and bearing the work that need to be practiced in order to exist in a new way.”

She was here “regardless” because she knew that the artists in Greater New Haven and in Connecticut “want better” and

Juanita Sunday

will continue to create in other safer spaces.

Gonzalez dedicated the award “to every artist in CT who has needed to fight against these institutional structures to be believed, to be heard, to speak up.” She specifically dedicated the award to artist Maxim Schmidt, whose story at the Ely Center of Contemporary Art has been documented in the Independent, and who she said she believed and supported. She also once again expressed her belief in the power of the artist and the art to persist.

“I am not here to say all nonprofits are bad, but I am here to say that artists are the solution. We already have what we need in us,” she added. After saying she believed there was an “arts crisis” in the city, she also noted that the city was in an “arts renaissance” because “we are providing exactly what we need for ourselves and each other.” She left the podium to thunderous applause and cheers.

Climate activist and organizer Adrian

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Huq thanked Gonzalez Hernandez “for saying the words that needed to be said,” noting that they were “truly humbled and honored to be one of the awardees tonight alongside these five distinguished changemakers.”

“When I first heard the news of my selection I immediately thought of so many other local artists, cultural workers and community leaders who deserve the same honor. That speaks to the level of excellence that we have in our greater New Haven community, whether or not they have been recognized for their important contributions,” they said.

From bringing home their friends’ recyclables in middle school to becoming the youth coordinator of the Climate Health Education program and cofounding the New Haven Climate Movement Youth Action Team, Huq has continued to help the local climate change movement grow and flourish.

“Grassroots organizing on the city scale

“Art is everything, and everything is art,” she said. “Peace.”

Lauren Anderson, founder of Possible Futures, the Edgewood Avenue bookstore that has become a vital meeting and event space as well as treasured “third place” for the community since its inception in 2019, immediately acknowledged the audience and supporters.

“We aren’t here without you choosing us when you could choose otherwise, so really this award is for you too,” she said.

She also offered gratitude to a long list of supporters, including the “book nerds” who help to keep the store “the fountain of joy” it has become, the neighbors who helped the space make it through the rough patches during the pandemic, the children who come to the space, and the artists and makers who use the space and whose “offerings bring beauty to the book space and our lives.”

She noted that Possible Futures works Con’t on page 12

At CCT, "Fairview" Digs Deep THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

by Lucy Gellman, Editor, The Arts Paper newhavenarts.org

daughter Keisha (a show-stopping Kendall Driffin), setting down her history textbook as she greets her aunt on the couch.

At first, Beverly Frasier is just nodding Like the song that plays the show in, along to "Family Affair," a carrot poised it’s very much a family affair, and tenin one hand and a peeler in the other. The sions simmer and sizzle between them, music works its way into her hips and with small, nearly imperceptible glitches shoulders, the vocals buttery as they flow that start to add up. Characters speak, from a speaker. She smiles: for a min- but they don’t always listen. Or they ute, everything is right with the world. are summoned, and take entirely too But something is off: the track be- long to come. Long before they ever gins to skip, like one of those cas- sit down to eat, Beverly and Jasmine settes that’s been played one too many have slipped into a well-worn disagreetimes. Mary J. Blige’s vocals come out ment, their words barbed at the edges. chopped and layered, catching on them- It seems that even the littlest thing might selves. Beverly is befuddled: her face set them off: Beverly’s obsession with begins to fall, then calms as the track appearances, Jasmine’s fondness for preevens out and begins to play again. dictable movies, Keisha’s palpable sense The scene—and its suggestion that ev- of overwhelm with the world. There’s erything may not be as it seems—brings something here that feels like a sitcom, the audience into Fairview, opening except the laugh track is missing. By the at Collective Consciousness Theatre this time Dayton announces “Everything is Thursday. Written by Jackie Sibblies gonna be fine! Don’t worry!” it seems Drury and directed by CCT’s Jenny Nel- like he’s in on the fact that there’s no son, the play is a searing and on-point universe in which that is entirely true. indictment of the white gaze and the conBut it’s how not fine, and why, and in struction of race and racism in America, what universe, that make the show imas sharp and funny as it is right on time. possible to look away from. For viewers As it comes to New Haven, it is also who have seen Drury’s work in action (her quintessential Drury, with a fourth wall 2012 We Are Proud to Present a Presenthat creaks, cracks, wavers, and then tation About the Herero of Namibia, Forcomes tumbling down with brain-frying merly Known as Southwest Africa, From alacrity. Performances run Thursday the German Südwestafrika, Between the through Saturday, Nov. 2 through 19, at Years 1884–1915, came to the Yale CabaCCT’s 319 Peck St. hub in Erector Square. ret in 2014 and to CCT in 2015), they “We’re excited to see audiences en- might know to expect a script that will gage with this work,” Nelson said at a get chopped, rewound and twisted, with tech rehearsal on Tuesday night, moments dream-like sequences that push the audibefore actors flooded an intimate set, and ence to question what universe they’re in. the show rolled into action. “It has similar But Fairview stands completely on its themes like race, class, culture, appropria- own. Yes, there are many texts that weave tion, assimilation, colonization, but doing in and out of this script, from Groundit in a way that I’ve never seen before. hog Day and The Cosby Show to RhiIt’s a very innovative structure … some noceros What to Send Up When It Goes real secrets, twists and turns in this one.” Down (A Strange Loop also premiered Set in what appears to be the pres- Off-Broadway the same year that Fairent, Fairview opens on a seemingly un- view won a Pulitzer, and the works feel eventful Frasier home, as Beverly (Jamie like they could be presented on a dayGuite) prepares for her elderly mother’s long double bill). And yes, all of them birthday party, peeling carrots as mu- have a role to play, particularly as the sic swirls around her. As Blige’s vocals first act melts into the second and third, fill the dining room, Beverly is feeling and a family’s celebratory dinner melts herself: she primps and poses as if she’s into an uninvited puddle of stereotype. looking into a mirror, but she’s looking But Drury’s writing feels like hers alone, into the audience instead, giving them a with a keen sense of timing, of biting window. Or maybe it’s a one-way mir- and incisive humor, of the blindness to ror. The moment is fleeting: she soon colonialism and its brutal legacy that is remembers the mountain of cooking still being white. In her very Jackie Sibblies left to do, and returns to the tasks at hand. Drury-esque way, she is an expert at blurIt’s not long before the audience meets ring the bounds between an audience’s her husband Dayton (Joshua Eaddy, in notion of what is “regular” or “normal” his CCT debut), who seems to know that (the Frasier’s orderly middle class home, there’s trouble brewing when she an- not a couch cushion out of place) and nounces that guests will include her sister what is actually normal (the world as it Jasmine (Marie R. Altenor) and brother is, instead of the world as it could be).

Tyrone, an aspiring partner at a law firm In this sense, she deftly threads a social who the audience never sees. Just men- and historical needle, then lets it go entiretioning their names sets the show into mo- ly off the rails. And yet, at no point does tion: Jasmine is soon there, brandishing a it feel that far fetched. Instead, it becomes bottle of rosé, and so is Beverly’s teenage a case study in how Americans (and let’s

Joshua Eaddy as Dayton, Jamie Guite as Beverly, Kendall Driffin as Keisha, and Marie R. Altenor as Jasmine.

Jamie Guite as Beverly Frasier. Fairview runs at CCT through Nov. 19. Lucy Gellman Photos.

Lisa DeAngelis as Suze.

be real, white Americans) construct, discount, codify, theorize, fuss over, and selfflagellate around race and racism, without actually challenging the systems of power that they have created and are, more often than not, trying very hard to maintain.

The cast is here for it, embracing a script that is as emotionally heavy as it is propulsive, and soars in their and Nelson’s able hands. Characters dance, and it’s as complex and layered as it is joyful (to say anything more would be to risk a series of mind-bending spoilers). They bicker, and it’s unclear what they’re ac-

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tually bickering about, or who might be watching them, waiting in the wings to see what the next move will be. They synchronize and mute their patterns of speech and movement, and it becomes a reminder of history and bias, from which cultural stereotypes have been allowed to grow and propagate like weeds.

Just months after CCT presented Barbecue, cast members take Drury’s narrative twists and turns in stride, leaning all the way into them as time and space warp, and the fourth wall turns to dust. As Beverly, Guite plays the mom that many of

us know (or maybe even had), who wants so much to have everything together that she simply makes herself believe that she does. There’s an internal battle there, and she shines most when she lets the audience see it, two parts of her at war.

As they orbit around her like frantic, agitated planets, both Eaddy and Altenor hold their own, with no stage direction that seems too absurd for them to pick up as they move through this show. That’s particularly true in acts two and three, as the Frasier matriarch comes down for the meal (again, to say much more would spoil the show) and extended family, or something like it, rolls in just in time for dinner.

Around them, the Frasier home becomes a character itself, where no piece of furniture is out of place or goes unused for the entire show (a nod to set designer David Sepulveda, who has created an entire dining and living room, staircase, and swinging door that invite an audience into the space). In this off-kilter play, Sepulveda goes for normalcy, the sense and order of the scene part of its unraveling.

But it’s Driffin, who made her CCT debut in Barbecue earlier this year, who is the beating heart of the show. From the moment she appears onstage, Keisha is every bit her teenage self, with patterns of oh-so-high-school speech that Drury has nailed in her writing, and Driffin in her delivery. As Fairview‘s world becomes something of a fun house mirror, it’s Driffin who lives in that liminal space Drury so loves, squirming until she’s figured out how to make the audience squirm instead.

Her curiosity, which sometimes simmers into anger, is righteous and spellbinding to watch. Indeed, it’s as if she has been made to probe that whisper-thin barrier between the world of the play and the world thrumming outside of it, trying to see if they’re really so different at all.

In New Haven, where consumers of the fine and performing arts have remained startlingly, often uncomfortably white even as arts organizations have begun to diversify their programming, it raises questions that feel long overdue and very much worth asking. That’s true even at CCT, which was having these conversations before it was the fashionable thing to do.

Indeed, it’s not just Keisha’s final lines that hang in the air long after the play has ended, and audience members have made a decision about what side they want to be on.

Instead, Fairview is a play for the moment, with questions that should follow one out to the parking lot and all the way home.

For instance—at what point do legacy institutions acknowledge that it’s time to say goodbye? At what point do they start charging a white person price?

When does leadership finally step back, and abdicate power that was never rightfully theirs?

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Elicker, Charter Changes Sail To Victory

by THOMAS BREEN The new haven independent Mayor Justin Elicker handily won reelection to a third two-year term in office with 79 percent of the vote at the polls, bringing to an end a campaign year that stretched back to last December and saw a total of five people run for the city’s top elected office.

Voters also overwhelmingly approved the charter-revision ballot question, by nearly a 2-to-1 margin. That means that, starting with the 2027 municipal election year, the mayor, city clerk, and all 30 alders will serve four-year terms instead of two-year terms each.

Overall, 12,237 people voted at the polls in the mayoral race. With roughly 628 absentee ballots left to count, that means voter turnout citywide was around 24.5 percent.

According to machine-vote results reported in all 30 wards after polling places closed at 8 p.m., Elicker, a two-term Democrat who also ran on the Working Families Party line, won a total of 9,755 votes (79.2 percent) in his successful bid to remain in the mayor’s office.

Republican and Independent Party challenger Tom Goldenberg won 2,210 votes (18 percent), unaffiliated petitioning candidate Wendy Hamilton won 223 votes (1.82 percent), and 49 votes (0.4 percent) were cast for write-in candidates.

The charter revision ballot question, meanwhile, was approved with 6,629 “yes” votes (64 percent) to 3,721 “no” votes (35.9 percent), a resounding win for a Democratic Party push for four-year terms for mayor and alders (see more on that below.)

Elicker’s win on Tuesday follows his defeat of challenger Liam Brennan by more than a 2-to-1 margin in September’s Democratic mayoral primary.

According to the Registrar of Voters office, there are currently 52,419 registered voters in New Haven — including 33,603 Democrats, 2,702 Republicans, 15,605 unaffiliated voters, and 509 registered to third parties.

With 12,237 voters casting ballots at the polls on Tuesday, and another 628 absentees yet to be counted, that means that voter turnout was at 24.5 percent in Tuesday’s election.

Tuesday’s turnout in absolute votes cast was lower than the last contested mayoral election in November 2021, when a total of 12,980 votes were cast in the mayoral election. That was a 23 percent turnout. In that race, Elicker collected 10,767 votes, or 83 percent of the total, to win reelection against Republican John Carlson, who received 1,727 votes; and Independent Mayce Torres, who collected 166.

Elicker has focused his campaign this year on highlighting accomplishments like a surge in city funding from Yale and the state, the creation of the COMPASS crisis response team for mental health and homelessness-related 911 calls, the pas-

NORA GRACE-FLOOD PHOTO Mayor Elicker, ready to head back to work after cruising to reelection.

sage of an inclusionary zoning ordinance mandating affordable housing percentages in new developments, and ramping up landlord code violation fines and tenants union support.

At a victory party at Nolo pizza on State Street, Elicker called the landslide results a vote of public confidence in the city’s direction and a public rejection of divisive politics.

“The competitor that we were facing,” he said of Goldenberg, “ divided our city, misrepresented so many truths about our city, scapegoated the people that were most vulnerable in our community. New Haven in an overwhelming way said, ‘This is something we do not stand for in our city. ‘That is why we crushed it with almost 80 percent of the vote It has no place in our city.”

Goldenberg, for instance, had attacked the Elicker administration for considering the idea of a safe-injection site for opioid abusers.

Elicker cited the nearly 2 – 1 vote in favor of charter reform as a vindication of Democrats’ handling of the city. “If they were dissatisfied right now with the direction the city is heading in, there is no way it would have passed.”

Among several supporters in East Rock Market, former McKinsey & Co consul-

tant Goldenberg conceded the race.

He quoted the Bhagavad Gita in Sanskrit: “You have the right to act. You have the right to do what’s right. You don’t have control over the result.”

“When I look back on this campaign, maybe it’s not the exact outcome I would have envisioned,” he said, but “we have put our heart and soul into this, and we have put our heart and soul into things we believed needed to happen in the city.”

Goldenberg reflected fondly on connections he made with prospective voters. “It was these experiences along the way that made this meaningful,” he said. “These are things that I will forever look back on and be proud of.”

Goldenberg thanked, among others, John Carlson, the chair of the Republican Party that ultimately endorsed him. “John, you are a courageous man. You chose, as a Republican Town Chair, to endorse a Democrat.” The cross-party partnership was “historic,” he said, adding that he considered Carlson a “good friend.”

Also on Tuesday, five-term incumbent City Clerk Michael Smart, a Democrat, trounced Republican challenger Anthony Acri with 8,919 votes (86 percent) to 1,384 votes (13 percent).

The election also elevates Andrea Downer, a Democrat, to the Board of Education

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District 2 seat, after Darnell Goldson, who currently holds that position, dropped out of the race.

Charter Revision Approved 64% To 36% While Democratic elected officials and party leaders never doubted Elicker’s victory at the polls, in a city where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 15 to 1 and where Democrats hold every elected office, they did make a more concerted push over the past two weeks to urge voters to support the charter-revision ballot question — including using this contested flyer put out by Elicker’s reelection campaign.

The approval of the revision by a 2-to-1 margin to the city charter means that New Haveners can expect quite a few changes to be enacted to the city’s constitution and, therefore, the structure of city government. Those now-approved changes include: • Extending terms for mayor, alder, and city clerk from two years to four years each, to take effect in the municipal elections of 2027; • Allowing alders to move most requirements for the structure of city departments, boards, and commissions out of the charter and into the code of ordinances, making them easier to change as part of the normal legislative process; • Increasing alders’ annual stipends from $2,000 to $5,000 each (or $6,200 for the president), with cost-of-living raises implemented in between terms; • Explicitly clarifying that alders must approve all city contracts of at least $100,000; • Extending the window for alders’ approval of appointees to city boards and commissions from 60 to 90 days; • Changing all language in the charter to be gender neutral; • Making line edits and correcting a handful of inconsistencies and errors.

The revision is the culmination of a year-long effort that typically takes place once every 10 years, as undertaken by a nine-person Charter Review Commission that held hearings and proposed charter changes based on an initial set of recommendations from the mayor and the Board of Alders.

Those in favor of the revision, many of them leaders of the Democratic party, argued that four-year terms for mayor and alders will allow officials to spend more time governing and less time campaigning.

Opponents have criticized the changes as reduced accountability for elected officials, and have called out the single, non-specific ballot question as difficult to understand and a “poor use of power.”

At the polls on Tuesday, a majority of voters interviewed by the Independent about this matter embraced the charterrevision proposal, and the four-year terms for mayor and alders, as leading to a more efficient government and fewer time-consuming and costly elections.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Sisters’ Journey November Survivor of the Month Lisa J. Reeves

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 44. In late February 2017, I went n for my annual mammogram – full disclosure, I did skip it in 2016 and my doctors told me had I skipped it that year, I wouldn’t have made it through the summer of 2017 because the cancer was very aggressive. They found the lump and immediately sent me for a biopsy. Please women, go annually for your mammogram. It can save your life.

My mom, who is also a survivor, was with me when I got the phone call and she immediately called her oncologist. He already knew me because I would bring my mother to her treatments. I started chemotherapy and it was hard and fast. It was discovered that both my mom and I have the BRCA 2 cancergene.

My treatment consisted of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation. The chemo lasted five months, March to August. In August, my right breast was removed. I then had radiation but for only 1.5 months. They stopped midway because my skin was starting to burn from my neck to my waist.

In January 2018 I had surgery to remove my ovaries as a preventive measure.

In June of 2018 I had my left breast re-

moved completing my bilateral mastectomy and started reconstruction surgery.

Unfortunately, it didn’t go smoothly, and I was in the hospital for three weeks. I was fine, though the results were just not as symmetrical as we had hoped.

But I survived and that is what mattered.

August 2019 was my final surgery completing the reconstruction. I now take Anastrozole, a hormone medicine, for the rest of my life because of the aggressive BRCA 2 gene that I have in my blood.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I had support from my family, coworkers, God sisters, and the Cancer Society of Westchester. My coworkers gave me their sick and vacation time on days I couldn’t make it in after chemo or radiation. My son was in college, but he called often and he and his best friend from high school picked me up a couple of times from the hospital or would sneak me a snack.

I was linked with the Cancer Society of Westchester and worked with Ms. Winton. She assisted me in getting book money for my then-college freshman son. They also helped me connect with Meals on Wheels which provided meals for me and my daughters. My daughters,

who were 12 and 15 at the time of my diagnosis, were helpful with heating up food and even changing my dressings.

My car needed of work, but I couldn’t afford the repairs, so my brothers ar-

ranged to use it as a tradein for a reliable car and paid for the car payments and gas for the first six months.

Last but certainly not least, my God sisters came through with everything

from money for food to caring for the girls when I went for various surgeries.

Counting from my date of diagnosis, which was February 2017, I’ll be a six-year survivor in 2023. After surviving my battle with breast cancer while at the same time struggling with a child in college, I felt compelled to do something for others in my situation.

Thus, the birth of the Phoenixx Phoundation, which took flight in the summer of 2021. Come visit at: https:// www.thephoenixxphoundation.org/ Upcoming Events The New Sisters’ Journey 2024 Calendar is now available in our shop New Haven Virtual Support Group Meeting: Every 3rd Tuesday of the month 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Bridgeport Virtual Support Group Meeting: Every 3rd Thursday of the Month 6:30pm – 7:30pm Contact Us: sistersjourney@sbcglobal.net Or Call: 203-288-3556 We’re on the web @ Sisters Journey Inc. or

A N I M P O R TA N T M E S S A G E F R O M M E D I C A R E

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Use Medicare.gov to easily compare prescription drug and health coverage options. Do a side-by-side comparison of Coverage, Costs, and Quality Ratings.

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If you are struggling with your prescription drug costs, Extra Help is a Medicare program that can help pay for your drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs. If you make less than $22,000 a year, it’s worth it to apply.

Visit ssa.gov/extrahelp or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to apply.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Moore: ‘It’s a Bridgeport Problem’

by Hugh McQuaid The new haven independent What separated the Democratic primary election overturned Wednesday by a Bridgeport Superior Court judge from previous elections in Connecticut’s largest city was not allegations of absentee ballot fraud, but rather physical evidence to prove it, Sen. Marilyn Moore said Thursday.

“All I can say is, finally, someone is looking at this seriously — the manipulation of absentee ballots in Bridgeport — and thank God for the cameras,” she said.

Like the rest of Bridgeport, Moore, a Democrat, finds her city in “unprecedented waters” following Judge William Clark’s Wednesday ruling, which ordered the city to conduct a new primary election in a lawsuit brought by Democratic mayoral candidate John Gomes.

Gomes, a former city official, contended that supporters of incumbent Mayor Joe Ganim engaged in ballot harvesting, which helped tip the Sept. 12 primary election to a 251-vote Ganim victory. In court proceedings last month, Gomes’ lawyer, William Bloss, brought hours of videos apparently showing Ganim supporters stuffing drop boxes with multiple absentee ballots.

In a 37-page ruling, Clark called the video evidence “shocking to the court” and gave the parties 10 days to schedule a new Democratic primary to occur after the general election, which is still on track for Tuesday, Nov. 7.

In an interview Thursday, Moore praised Bloss’s thorough approach to trying the case, but said the cameras were crucial to the outcome. People needed physical and visual evidence of ballot harvesting before they would take seriously allegations of ballot fraud in Bridgeport, Moore said.

File photo of Sen. Marilyn Moore, D-Bridgeport And she should know. In 2019, Moore sought the Democratic nomination to run for mayor and found herself in a situation similar to that of Gomes. She led Ganim among in-person voters until absentee ballots were counted and handed the nomination to the incumbent mayor.

“There is a real strong operation of how they win elections and it was in place in 2019 and I do feel cheated,” Moore said. “Not only do I feel cheated, but I think about what could have happened over the four years.”

At issue in the case is a state law that generally requires that voters return their own absentee ballots aside from some limited exceptions that allow for people like family members, police or caregivers to return the ballots in certain cases.

Moore chalks much of the operation up to Wanda Geter-Pataky, a city employee who Gomes contends appears in the surveillance videos mak-

ing multiple deposits in drop boxes.

Geter-Pataky took the stand in court hearings in the case last month. She declined to answer questions, taking the Fifth Amendment right to avoid self-incrimination, according to the CT Mirror.

However, the problem, as Moore sees it, is not limited to just Geter-Pataky but also involves the town committee and a machine for turning out votes that has existed in Bridgeport for decades.

“I’m hoping that this [court decision] is the turnaround that Bridgeport needs to bring back integrity to voting because it’s a Bridgeport problem,” Moore said. “I don’t think there’s anywhere else in the state that has this much disregard for the vote.”

Bloss made similar comments during a Thursday press conference on Gomes’ next steps. Gomes’ name will appear on the Independent Party ballot line next week, and if he manages to win the general election, Bloss

said his team will withdraw its complaint.

Like Moore, Bloss, who has decades of experience in election law, described the current situation as a uniquely Bridgeport problem.

“I’ve been doing this for quite awhile.

This is a problem in Connecticut nowhere but Bridgeport,” Bloss said. “There is a tolerance of misconduct on an unprecedented scale in Bridgeport and I would like to think that Judge Clark’s decision is going to change the dynamic on that a little bit.”

The case has attracted attention including some from outside of Connecticut and has been used as evidence that the state’s absentee ballot system is vulnerable to fraud. In September, Republican lawmakers unsuccessfully attempted to pass a proposal to discontinue the use of dropboxes in Connecticut.

“These videos confirm our fears about how absentee ballots can be misused,” Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly said

Wednesday. “Now the court has spoken. What we need now is trust, faith and confidence in our electoral system.”

Meanwhile, in a Wednesday appearance on WNPR’s The Wheelhouse, Ganim told host Frankie Graziano that the video evidence existed because of his administration’s efforts to ensure city drop boxes were located in places where surveillance cameras could record activity around them.

The mayor also pointed to separate videos, which he said depicted Gomes supporters making multiple deposits in the boxes.

Asked by Graziano about proposals to discontinue use of ballot dropboxes, Ganim said he already met with his staff to discuss the idea and was told he did not have the authority to remove them. “Let’s get the damn boxes out of there if they’re the problem here,” Ganim told Graziano.

Throughout the interview, Ganim sought to center the conversation on the coming general election and leave the new primary order to the courts. “The only thing we know for sure is …there’s an election on Tuesday, Nov. 7. The polls open from 6 [a.m.] to 8 p.m.,” Ganim said. “I’m the endorsed Democratic candidate and will be on the top line with the other Democrats.

What happens after that is going to be up to the courts.”

Moore, meanwhile, was equally unsure of what the future held for Bridgeport on Tuesday and beyond.

“I don’t know how people feel about going to the polls,” Moore said. “I know how they feel about politicians on a good day, I don’t know how they feel about politicians with all of this stuff we’re going through in Bridgeport. I don’t think anybody can call this one. We’re in unprecedented waters here and everything is just a big guess.”

Connecticut DCP Warns of Potentially Dangerous Unregulated THC Products

by Hugh McQuaid CTNewsJunkie Connecticut’s Department of Consumer Protection warned in a Monday press release that THC and synthetic cannabinoid products purchased outside of the state’s regulated cannabis marketplace could be potentially harmful to consume.

The DCP oversees regulation of Connecticut’s new adult-use cannabis market, which came online in January following a 2021 law which legalized the substance.

In a release, Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli said the regulation was designed to ensure a safe marketplace through testing and labeling requirements as well as restrictions on serving sizes and packaging.

“Products sold illegally at unauthorized retailers are not subject to these regulations designed to protect public health and safety, and are often sold to minors under 21 years old,” Cafferelli said. “We are working with law enforcement to protect public health and safety, particularly

for young people who may be targeted by these illegal products.”

A list of licensed cannabis retailers can be found on the Department of Consumer Protection’s website.

Monday’s warning comes more than a month after the implementation of a new law, designed to crack down on the sale of high potency hemp-derived products and synthetic cannabinoid products, which have recently been sold at gas stations and CBD shops.

Sale of some products containing THC, a psychoactive substance contained in cannabis, had previously been legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which allowed for the cultivation and sale of hemp.

As a result, high-potency products, sometimes packaged to resemble common snack food, was available for sale without age restrictions.

Earlier this year, Attorney General William Tong announced litigation against retailers found to be selling the products.

Rep. Mike D’Agostino displays a THC gummy during a press briefing on May 9, 2023.

Credit: Hugh McQuaid / CTNewsJunkie

6

However, state lawmakers attempted to address the widespread availability of the products back in May, when the legislature voted to reclassify high-THC products as cannabis, effectively limiting its sale to licensed retailers.

The change was an unwelcome hit for businesses that had grown accustomed to legally selling hemp-based products in Connecticut.

Asked Monday what prompted the warning from the Consumer Protection Department, Kaitlyn Krasselt, an agency spokesperson, said it was standard practice to warn residents about issues that could impact their health and safety.

“We’ve let businesses know it is illegal to sell these products without a license, and wanted to remind consumers as well that products sold without a license are illegal and not subject to regulatory oversight,” she said.

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Low Voter Turnout, Absentee Ballots Make Headlines Across The State

by CTNewsJunkie Staff CTNewsJunkie Political newcomer Arunan Arulampalam declared victory Tuesday night, winning with 69% of the vote, making the son of Sri Lankan immigrants the next mayor of Hartford.

“I am so proud of the campaign we’ve all built together,” Arulampalam said during a campaign celebration at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford, declaring victory shortly before 9 p.m.

Official results were not available Tuesday night, as none of Hartford’s precincts had reported vote totals to the Secretary of the State’s public reporting portal when Arulampalam made his announcement.

The win means Arulampalam will replace current Mayor Luke Bronin, who decided not to run for a third term in office.

Arulampalam had to defeat notable Democrats, including state Sen. John Fonfara and retired lawmaker and judge Eric Coleman, to secure to Democratic nomination this summer.

He then had to beat out a crowded field again Tuesday to become mayor. Republican Mike McGeary and petitioning candidates J. Stan McCauley, Giselle Jacobs and Nick Lebron were also on the ballot.

During his victory speech, Arulampalam talked about his childhood in Zimbabwe after his parents fled Sri Lanka because of a civil war.

He came to the U.S. to attend college and eventually ended up in Hartford.

“It’s not my journey that inspires me the most, it is the journey of this city of Hartford,” he said. “A journey that involves birth and rebirth. A journey that involves

hope that comes out of pain that leads, by the grace of god, to progress.”

The CEO of the Hartford Land Bank, Arulampalam ran on a platform of fixing Hartford’s housing problems. He promised to crackdown on slumlords and vowed to try and make blighted or vacant lots into livable units again.

He also said he wants to improve the city’s schools and address ongoing violence.

Supporters said they hope he brings the city in a new direction.

“Do the best for the city and the neighborhood,” said Alejandor Roman, who voted for Arulampalam.

Roman said thinks the city needs to stop violence and crackdown on drug activity, especially in the North End. “That’s the main thing, because sometimes they stay until two o’clock in the morning making noise, people coming and going, and police don’t come there,” Roman said.

His wife, Anna, agreed. She said she wants to see Arulampalam have more of a presence in North End neighborhoods.

“They want you to vote, but this is the only time you see them,” she said.

Frankie Williams declined to say who she voted for, but said she wants to see the mayor’s office push for development in other neighborhoods besides Downtown, especially the North End. “Do stuff in the community,” Williams said. “Revive Barbour Street, put a grocery store there – just take care of a lot of stuff

Hartford Mayor-elect Arunan Arulampalam. Credit: Mike Savino / CTNewsJunkie

on the North End side.”

Arulampalam vowed to win over all residents, even those who didn’t vote for him.

“I didn’t earn your vote, but over the next four years I’m going to work hard every single day to earn your support and earn your trust,” he said.

Prior to running the Hartford Land Bank, Arulampalam was a deputy commissioner in Gov. Ned Lamont’s Department of Consumer Protection.

Despite his lack of experience running for office, he secured support from Lamont, Bronin and several other prominent Democrats in Hartford and in state government.

Bridgeport

By early Wednesday, absentee ballots had put incumbent Mayor Joe Ganim slightly ahead of challenger John Gomes in Bridgeport, according to CTInsider.

Ganim declared victory and asked Gomes to withdraw his legal challenge. However, it remained unclear who would ultimately serve as the city’s next mayor.

In an unprecedented ruling last month, a Superior Court judge ordered a new Democratic primary between Ganim and Gomes due to “shocking” evidence of absentee ballot misconduct by supporters of Ganim during the city’s September primary.

That means Democrats in Bridgeport will head to the polls again in the coming weeks to choose a mayoral nominee and a second

general election is likely to follow.

Voters in Bridgeport were confused Tuesday by the fact a judge ordered a new Democratic primary for mayor after the General Election.

“How can you have a primary after a General Election? Then if Ganim wins there’s a primary and if Gomes wins, he just wins?”

Sarah Lewis, a member of the Democratic Town Committee, said outside JFK School.

Other voters who declined to give their names expressed similar concerns about their vote.

“I hope it counts and that everything gets fixed and we don’t have to do this again,” a female voter at JFK campus, who declined to give her name, said.

Another voter said he didn’t know what would be valid or not but he wanted to make sure his vote counted.

Before the polls closed Gomes remained optimistic that he would again beat Ganim on the machines. There were about 1,500 absentee ballots returned, according to the Secretary of the State’s office, before midday. It was the absentee ballots and how they were delivered that were called into question during the primary.

Gomes said voters saw how “disrespectful” the Ganim administration was to voters and they want a change.

Ganim said he loves the city and the resi dents and is willing to stand for re-election on his record. He said voters will get to decide what happens and whether they want to keep the momentum going.

“We’ve got a path to revitalization that is benefiting the people, and a great vision for this city and I want to continue,” Ganim Con’t on page 12

Youth Justice Group Outlines 2024 Priorities Including Banning Use of Pepper Spray During Incidents Involving Minors

by Hugh McQuaid The new haven independent Banning the use of pepper spray on incarcerated minors and raising to 14 the minimum age at which a young person can be arrested were among the legislative priorities outlined this week by the Connecticut Justice Alliance.

The group included its 2024 policy priorities in its first annual State of Youth Justice Report, which it released Monday alongside a press conference streamed on Facebook. The proposals included prohibiting the use of chemical agents on people under the age of 18 in state prisons.

“It is known widely throughout this state and throughout the country and I would frankly say, the world, that we should not be spraying people in general and especially children with chemical agent in order as a method of control, to end fights, etc.,” Christina Quaranta, the group’s executive director, said.

The Department of Correction sometimes employs chemical agent — more commonly known as pepper spray — as a means of regaining control over violent incidents like fights at its facilities. That includes facilities that house minors like the Manson Youth Institution in Cheshire.

A spokesman for the agency did not immediately return a request for information left Tuesday morning, however the department reported 19 incidents in which chemical agent was utilized in incidents involving an individual younger than 18 between June of 2021 and February of 2022.

On Monday, Quaranta said her group intends to advocate for legislation requiring the agency to find other means of containing incidents without the use of pepper spray.

“This [the DOC] is the only place someone can be sprayed with chemical agent,” she said. “It does not happen in the Judicial Branch with young people or in educational settings. There are other ways to address that.”

The legislature has considered similar proposals to end the practice in the past.

Although a bill proposed last year by Rep. Anthony Nolan, D-New London, stalled in the Judiciary Committee without a public hearing, the panel did take public testimony on the matter during previous sessions.

In 2021, DOC Commissioner Angel Quiros testified in opposition to banning the use of pepper spray in incidents involving minors.

Quiros told the committee that chemical agent was only utilized after other interven-

Christina Quaranta, executive director of the Connecticut Justice Alliance

tions had failed.

“I must caution that losing this option altogether during a significant incident would increase injuries to youth and our staff,” Quiros said. “It would also likely result

8

in more of my staff being out on Workers Compensation due to injuries which could have been avoided.”

The provision was also met with opposition from the AFSCME Council 4 labor unions representing state correction officers. During the same hearing, Aaron Lichwalla, an officer at MYI, told the committee that pepper spray was sometimes needed during fights involving more than one youth.

“This can cause the fight to quickly cease, stopping what would most likely be worse injuries,” Lichwalla said. “Otherwise, the only other alternative to breaking up a fight would be with ‘hands on’ techniques. We strongly try to avoid hands on situations, as typically additional and unnecessary injuries will occur.”

Another legislative priority for the youth justice advocacy group involved raising the age of arrest from its current minimum of 10 years old up to 14 years old.

“If a child is committing a crime at that age, it’s likely that they have a huge unmet need that needs to be addressed, right?, and prison is not going to do that,” Quaranta said. “That’s the question we need to be having: Where do we need to improve our behavioral health and mental health system

for young people and the resources that are available for them and their families?”

Connecticut last updated its minimum age of arrest back in 2021, when lawmakers voted to raise it from 7 years old to 10. Last year, bills proposing to raise the age to 12 and 14 failed to advance out of the Judiciary Committee.

In an interview Tuesday, Sen. Gary Winfield, a New Haven Democrat who cochairs the panel, said he supported both policies advanced by the advocacy group.

However, Winfield said it was too soon to say whether the legal panel would endorse either during next year’s session.

Winfield said political pressure related to how Connecticut handles young people in the justice system has complicated efforts to pass policies advocated by groups like the Juvenile Justice Policy and Oversight Committee and the justice alliance.

“We’ve still been getting stuff done, but it’s been at a pace that’s slower than a lot of the players, the people who have invested their time — the JJPOC — and others would like to see,” Winfield said. “All of these policies come into that political reality. As long as I’m there, we’re going to keep moving forward. The question is, how fast is the pace?”

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

$7M In State Aid Flows To Whalley Housing, Traffic-Safety Projects

by THOMAS BREEN A long-delayed, church-led affordable housing development on Whalley Avenue took a big step towards breaking ground — alongside a suite of traffic calming measures on the perilously car-heavy corridor near Stop & Shop — thanks to a $7 million infusion from the state.

City and state officials joined representatives from the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and related St. Luke’s Development Corporation on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate two grants designed to transform that stretch of Whalley. Both grants come from the state’s Community Investment Fund, and were approved by the State Bond Commission in early October.

One grant is for $6 million, and will go towards St. Luke’s construction of 55 new apartments — 49 of which will be priced at 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below — at the site of the to-be demolished Papa John’s pizza restaurant and adjacent parking lots at 117 and 129 Whalley Ave., 12 Dickerman St., and 34 and 36 Sperry St. According to the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 50 percent AMI in the New Haven-Meriden metro area currently translates to an annual income of around $57,350 for a family of four.

That planned six-story development will include 3,843 square feet of commercial space, and has been in the works for over a decade.

“The third time is the charm for us on this,” said Elm City Communities/Housing Authority of New Haven President Karen DuBois-Walton, who said that the public housing agency’s nonprofit development arm Glendower will work with the St. Luke’s development team to make this project a reality. That was a reference to previous unsuccessful funding applications for a project that has been planned for years and years.

“We chase every funding round,” she said. “This was the successful one.”

DuBois-Walton said that the 49 restricted affordable apartments will be made available to renters currently on the public housing authority’s 32,000-family waitlist.

City spokesperson Lenny Speiller said the total cost for the project is around $32.6 million. DuBois-Walton said construction should begin in “the last quarter of 2024,” with the 16-month-build slated to be completed and open to new tenants in March 2026. She said funding for the project is a mix of tax credits and project-based vouchers, in addition to the newly announced state aid.

Mayor Justin Elicker and City Engineer Giovanni Zinn also spoke at Tuesday’s presser about a second state grant approved as part of the Community Investment Fund and by the State Bond

55 planned new apartments on Whalley, now boosted by state $.

Con’t from page 12

“because it’s rooted in the practice of neighborhood in the way that activist Grace Lee Boggs meant it when she said we need to bring the neighbor back to our neighborhoods, in the way that Nipsy Hustle meant it: all money in, investing in us, neighbor as a verb.”

Anderson ended on another note of gratitude: “I’m so grateful for all that we have here in New Haven: beautiful neighbors, deep connections, abundant book joy, ambitious dreams. Possible futures.”

The final awardee of the night, William Graustein, was the recipient of this year’s C. Newton Schenck III Award for Lifetime Achievement in and Contribution to the Arts. A former geologist, Graustein went on to co-found the Community Leadership Program and Co-Creating Effective and Inclusive Organizations. He currently serves as a trustee of the Willam Casper Graustein Memorial Fund.

On this evening, he spoke of an “experience of a lifetime impact of arts” as a performer with Long Wharf Theater in 1997 that helped him “merge the stories of me in New Haven with the story of us in New Haven.” It taught him the lesson that “many people yearn to be part of the larger story of us.”

He said he took that with him and it “tuned not only what my mind would think, but what I would feel, when I started to talk to others in New Haven in the nonprofit sector.”

“What I heard was … a yearning to be a part of something greater than myself, to work for the common good beyond the boundaries that I’m familiar with and manifest more clearly the values in my heart,” he said.

He added that hearing these stories led him to cocreating the CLP and CCEIO programs

COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY OF NEW HAVEN PRESIDENT AMOS SMITH

GOVERNOR LAMONT ADDRESSES REPORTERS

Housing authority chief Karen DuBois-Walton (center) at Tuesday's presser.

Commission for the improvement of this stretch of Whalley: namely, $1 million that will go towards traffic-calming efforts on Whalley between Howe and Orchard.

Elicker Speiller said these funds will

support a $1.8 million total project that will see the construction of two raised intersections on that stretch of Whalley as well as one raised midblock peestrian crossing right by the Stop & Shop, along with other traffic-calming measures and

10

ALDERMAN FRANK DOUGLAS

“streetscape / lighting / facade improvements.”

“Frankly, this is a dangerous road,” Elicker said about Whalley. There have been too many crashes, too many drivers and pedestrians and cyclists hurt.

“So, thank you, good people of New Haven, thank you to the arts for creating those places where we can imagine something that is different, and realize even if we just make it real in a small space, it can grow to a much larger space.”

He also turned to the other awardees on the stage and thanked them for what they have done “to manifest that love for New Haven.”

Before the crowd dispersed to enjoy pizza, drinks, and DJ Ch’Varda’s music, Rawls-Ivy and Chávez returned to the stage. Both acknowledged each awardee individually, with Rawls-Ivy reminding everyone that “art is the lifeline and lifeblood of who we are.” She added that she liked to see art as “an economic driver so that cities and towns really put some money behind artists.” She also reminded everyone to enjoy themselves that night, but to also keep in mind that the loss of people around the world to violence — including people from Gaza, Israel, Sudan, and Newhallville — included artists “that will not see the light of day.”

“Go, enjoy each other, be in community,” she said, and added with a fist raised: “Art forever.”

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

GED Classes Come To The Q House Turnout Con’t on page 08

by MAYA MCFADDEN

Every day last spring, Latoya Armstrong dropped her daughter off for camp at the Q House.

One day in April, on her way out she scanned a flyer QR code to learn about the programs at the Dixwell community center and found a perfect fit for herself: GED classes by the New Haven Adult & Continuing Education Center.

Thanks to a pilot General Education Development (GED) program between partners at Adult Ed and the Q House, Armstrong is one step closer to getting her high school diploma.

This fall the Q House will host Adult Ed’s second cohort of GED-seeking students.

On Tuesday, those who helped to organize the expanded GED program gathered in the Q House’s Toni and Wendell Harp Historical Museum to talk with this reporter about how New Haveners can sign up for the fall GED cohort.

The team said the goal is to start up classes at the Q House again in the next two weeks.

The Tuesday gathering included Adult Ed Assistant Principal Stephanie Paris-Cooper, LEAP Chief of Staff Yakeita Robinson, Adult Ed student support specialist Toni Thorpe, former NHPS educator and Adult Ed GED teacher Royce Hatfield, Adult Ed GED support specialist Sara Gonzalez, Adult Ed GED facilitator and lead teacher Richard Cowes, and Armstrong.

Last spring the organizing team at Adult Ed met with Robinson to learn about programming needed at the Q House. The conversation led to the idea of piloting a GED-focused program to fill a “missing educational component beyond the library services,” Thorpe said.

The program, which will be open enrollment, will offer classes to practice for the GED test twice a week at the Q House.

The Adult Ed team described the expansion as “a no brainer” to increase its local reach beyond its satellite office.Robinson added, “We want to continue to provide opportunities and resources directly to the community.”

New Haveners can join the fall cohort at no cost and register online or in-person at the Q House. If registering in person at the Q House students must bring an ID. Robinson said the aim is to “empower the community to grow through education.”

Currently 12 students are registered for the fall cohort. The program will run for two months. The first spring cohort has eight registered students. Over the next week Gonzalez will conduct placement tests with residents to then enroll them in the necessary classes. The fall cohort will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Armstrong was one of the first students to register for the spring pilot. When she saw the GED pilot program in the list of Q House activities, Armstrong thought to herself, “I should do this.”

She took the placement test and then began classes at the Q House, which is only five minutes away from her home. After

said. “We’ll get past what this stuff is as we have with other stuff in the past and we’ll move on.”

If the vote doesn’t go his way, Ganim admitted that the voters are obviously saying “they want change.”

Gomes said the judge bravely put an end to voter suppression by ordering another primary. He said the only reason the “corruption” of the Ganim administration was uncovered was due to the video.

Sara Gonzalez,Toni Thorpe, Royce Hatfield, Richard Cowes, Yakeita Robinson, and Stephanie Paris-Cooper. the spring pilot ended she resumed taking classes at the Adult Ed main site.

Armstrong, who is a fitness instructor, said the convenient location at the Q house allows her to continue work and not give up her fitness classes. “The time was perfect, it was convenient, I had to make no adjustments to schedule,” she said.

Armstrong moved to Connecticut in 2011 from Barbados and New Haven four years ago. She thanked the Adult Ed team for expanding the program and giving her the “opportunity now to do what I couldn’t.”

She didn’t attend high school while in Barbados.

“When I came [to CT] it was all about my son then my daughter,” she said. “I finally decide[ed] it’s time for me to start.”

She said she looks forward to joining the program again this fall to continue preparing to take the GED test.

When students get their diplomas, Cowes said, it opens doors for them to have a different economic status and further their education.

He added that pre-Covid studies showed that one in six New Haveners don’t have a high school diploma. Robinson said she hopes the partnership between Adult Ed and the Q House will encourage other organizations to bring their resources to the community center.

To Thorpe, the Q House, which has senior and youth program in the arts, health, and literacy, must expand to become a onestop shop. “Education just kind of fits into that fold of offerings,” she said.

The partnership with the Q House allows Adult Ed to gain access to residents who have a more trusted relationship with the community center, Cowes said.

Hatfield will teach the fall cohort’s Q House classes. She previously taught in New Haven for 24 years and worked parttime for Adult Ed during much of that time.

Her background is in elementary and busi-

ness education and she taught at schools like Beecher and Hillhouse. While at Hillhouse she introduced AP Computer Science as a class.

Last year, 50 students graduated from Adult Ed’s homebase program in the Hill and went on to pass the GED test and get their diplomas.

GED programming is open to people ages 17 and up, but students must be 18 to test.

Click here for more information about the main location’s programming.

Thorpe has spent 20 years doing social work in the juvenile justice system. Now she’s spent the last 19 years moving forward Adult Ed’s students who may be on parole or have a background with the juvenile justice system.

Paris-Cooper, who has worked at Adult Ed for two years, was a former administrator for NHPS working at Career, Metro, and ESUMS. She also worked as an accountant in Hartford for 14 years.

Gonzalez has worked at Adult Ed for three years and has a background in sales and marketing. Her mother also previously worked for Adult Ed. Cowes is a 14-year veteran NHPS teacher who taught at Clinton Avenue School for nine years. He’s worked at Adult Ed for the last five years.

The GED program has two full-time NHPS teachers and five part-time NHPS teachers.

Adult Ed services are free of cost to New Haven residents and are open to all. Every Tuesday and Saturday GED testing is conducted at the main site at 580 Ella T. Grasso Blvd.

The GED test includes math, language arts, science, and social studies.

For all GED programming students must take a pre-test in each of the four core subjects and score 145 points or more to be eligible for the state GED test. Adult Ed provides wraparound supports during the “rigorous process,” the team said.

12

Adult Ed works with students at all levels in education to get them across the GED finish line.

Programs and tests for the GED are available in Spanish and English. Thorpe added that as Adult Ed continues to work through moving to a new facility in Newhallville, taking classes at the Q House will provide students with an education in a “beautiful new building.”

At Adult Ed’s main site, it offers GED courses for four days during the day and three days in the evening, Monday through Thursday.

The GED test can be taken in person or online.

“When they get a diploma we know the world opens up for them,” Paris-Cooper.

Adult Ed will provide students with a textbook and backpack. The Q House will provide students with laptops.

The team concluded with an emphasis that the goal for the expanded Adult Ed/Q House program is to help the community access jobs at large employers like Yale while also helping the employers fill employee gaps.

“This area is drastically changing. In order for people in this community to compete for jobs and be viable resources in your own community we need to not just watch the changes happen, but be a part of it,” Thorpe said. “It’s important for the community to be a part of the growth.”

Cowes emphasized that “there is a cap on your earning capacity without a diploma” which has caused people to have to work more than one job.

“If you get that high school diploma you might be able to parlay that into working one job and get the freedom to do other things that bring more potential to your life.”

New Haven In the Elm City, Mayor Justin Elicker easily won with 79% of the vote.

The turnout in absolute votes cast was lower than the last contested mayoral election in November 2021, when a total of 12,980 votes were cast in the mayoral election.

That was a 23 percent turnout. In that race, Elicker collected 10,767 votes, or 83 percent of the total, to win re-election against Republican John Carlson, who received 1,727 votes; and Independent Mayce Torres, who collected 166.

Elicker has focused his campaign this year on highlighting accomplishments like a surge in city funding from Yale and the state, the creation of the COMPASS crisis response team for mental health and homelessness-related 911 calls, the passage of an inclusionary zoning ordinance mandating affordable housing percentages in new developments, and ramping up landlord code violation fines and tenants union support.

Democratic challenger Roberto Alves unseated Republican incumbent Mayor Dean Esposito in Danbury, according to the state Democratic Party, which declared the city a “major pickup” in a social media message posted just before 9 p.m.

Last month, the state Supreme Court upheld a lower court ruling, which removed Esposito and other candidates from the city’s Independent Party ballot line as a result of a lawsuit brought by Alves in a case involving competing candidate slates.

During a press conference just after polls closed, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas told reporters that a polling place in Danbury lost power at some point on Election Day. “Apparently it did not disrupt the voting,” Thomas said. “As most people are aware, the tabulators have a battery backup that is good for some time so everything proceeded as normal.”

Derby In Derby, Democrats took back the mayor’s spot after a contentious battle between the two Republicans.

Joseph DiMartino defeated Mayor Richard Dziekan, who was running as a petitioning candidate after losing the primary, and his Republican challenger Gino DiGiovanni, who is facing federal charges related to allegations he illegally entered the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Reporters Mike Savino, Christine Stuart, and Hugh McQuaid contributed to this report.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

LP HE

I N G YO

U

COME BACK HOME

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

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

OPEN AUDITIONS

13

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Opinion:

Pick Up The Pace On Electrification

by MEREDITH POLK The new haven independent Mayor Justin Elicker has stated that New Haven’s goal is to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. In 2021, the New Haven Board of Alders City Services and Environmental Policy Committee passed a resolution outlining the importance of electrification and the actions the city would take to electrify. This resolution was an important step towards net-zero, but it has been two years and the city has not made enough progress. New Haven has the opportunity and responsibility to save lives by implementing the promises in the resolution.

What does electrification have to do with saving lives? Electrifying buildings, buses, and more means they will no longer emit the dangerous chemicals that their gaspowered counterparts release indoors and outdoors. New Haven has made the list of cities that are most difficult to live in with asthma due to the burning of fossil fuels multiple times. The World Health Organization estimates that 7 million people globally die from poor air quality every year.

New Haven’s electrification resolution lists eight specific steps that the city must take to develop and implement a plan to

THOMAS BREEN FILE PHOTO Climate activists outside City Hall in 2019.

improve air quality and public health, including: ° The City Engineer shall develop a schedule to replace all existing heating systems, and evaluate electrifying all new construction and existing heating systems. � The Mayor shall work with Board of Education to electrify school transportation. � The Livable City Initiative and Building Department will work with UI, the Green Bank, and other appropriate partners to educate current building owners about electrification incentives and resources. � The Economic Development Department will produce a report on how electrification transition can create local jobs, boost local businesses, and support historically marginalized communities.

The New Haven Climate Movement put together a report card showing how much progress has been made on each of the action items. While some commitments have been put into motion, more must be done.

Right now, the New Haven Office of Climate and Sustainability is spearheading efforts, but abandoning fossil fuels in favor of clean energy sources needs to be a focus across all city departments. Here are some things the city can do now: � Hold a hearing on the status of the prom-

ises of the Electrification Resolution before the end of 2023 to ensure that New Haven is on track to meet its electrification goal. � Track and regularly report on carbon emissions to make progress towards these goals more transparent and accessible.

There are seven years left until 2030, so it may seem like there’s plenty of time left to fulfill these commitments. However, based on the minimal progress in the past two years, we need to pick up the pace. The sooner we reduce fossil fuel emissions, the sooner we can reap the health, financial, and future benefits of cleaner, safer air.

It’s clear that the city recognizes that electrification is key to making New Haven a more livable and sustainable place, but we must increase the speed of change.

Here’s how you can help: � Write to or call your alder and the mayor to encourage them to make more progress faster. � Share this article and the electrification resolution on social media to get your friends involved. � Learn more about how you can electrify your own life.

It’s going to take a lot of effort, but electrification will result in tangible long-term benefits for everyone.

It has been a year since you have left You have been in our minds and memories every day Time will never erase what we shared together Love you always Your loving family Sharon Perkins Boyd

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

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15

Growing up in the early 1990s, Thuso Mbedu never dreamt of being an entertainTHE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, At 2023 ment figure. a very young age, she wanted to be a dermatologist, but after taking a dramatic arts class in the 10th grade, she became interested in acting.

Her acting career has earned her fame andespecially meritorious contribution The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, recognizing those who have made an indelible mark through “an fortune locally and internationally, rising to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural, or other signifi cant public or private endeavors.” to become one of the most sought after acBy Stacy M. Brown tresses from South Africa. At 27, she was pursuit of desegregation at the UniverNNPA Newswire Senior National named in the 2018 Forbes Africa 30 Under sity of Mississippi Law School culmiCorrespondent@StacyBrownMedia 30 List, and one of the 100 Most Influential nated in the landmark 1962 enrollment of James Meredith, eight years after Africans by New African Magazine.

Mississippi’s congressional delegaBorn on July 8, 1991, at the Midlands he initiated that battle. On that fateful tion has called on President Joe Biden Medical Center in Pietermaritzburg, Kwa- June 12, 1963, evening, Evers, bearing to posthumously award civil rights Zulu-Natal in South Africa, to a Zulu moth- NAACP T-shirts emblazoned with the icon Medgar Wiley Evers with the er and Xhosa and Sotho father, she never defiant slogan “Jim Crow Must Go,” Presidential Medal of Freedom. Senaenjoyed the care of her parents who died was shot in the back upon entering tors Roger Wicker and Cindy Hydewhen she was barely four years old. She his driveway. He succumbed to his Smith, alongside Representatives was raised by her grandmother, a very strict wounds at a local hospital, a martyr for Thuso Mbedu. Photo -IOL Bennie Thompson, Trent Kelly, Mischool principal in school and at home. the cause of civil rights. His assassinachael Guest, and Mike Ezell, penned tion, occurring mere(Outstanding hours afterActress PresiReel Awards’ Her name reflected the multicultural tribes ‘Black a heartfelt letter to Biden, imploring dent John F. Kennedy’s historic teleof her parents – Thuso is a Sotho name, – TV Movie / Limited Series), the ‘Hollyhim to bestow the honor upon Evers, vised address in support of civil rights, Nokwanda is a Zulu name, and Mbedu is wood Critics Association TV Awards’ (Best whose unwavering dedication to sent shockwaves nation.

Actress in a Limitedthrough Series, the Anthropology Xhosa. equality, voting rights, and social jusThough Byron De La Beckwith, Mbedu went to Pelham Primary School Series or Television Movie), the ‘Gothama tice culminated in his tragic assassinamember(Outstanding of the Ku Klux Klan, was arPerformance in New and Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School Awards’ tion outside his Jackson, Mississippi, rested for murder, he remained theEvers’ ‘Hollywood Critics Associaand graduated from the University of Wit- Series), home on June 12, 1963. free TV after all-white twice failed Awards’ (TV juries Breakout Star), and watersrand in South Africa in 2013, where tion The Presidential Medal of Freedom to reach a verdict on his guilt.

It would she studied Physical Theatre and Perform- the ‘Critics Choice Television Awards’ is the highest civilian honor in the take Actress three decades for justice to prein a Miniseries or Television ing Arts Management. Earlier in 2012, she (Best ship of the Regional Council of Negro vail, as De La Beckwith was finally United States, recognizing those who laws, championed the desegregation turned away from a local election at took a summer course at the Stella Adler Movie), all for her role ‘Cora Randall’ in Leadership (RCNL). Under his guid- convicted. Evers was buried at Arlinghave made an indelible mark through of education, and boldly probed into gunpoint. The intensely personal expe- Studio the 2021 TV series ‘The Underground Railof Acting in New York City. ance, the RCNL launched a success- ton National Cemetery, honored with rience, coupled with his service in the the horrifi c Emmett Till lynching.

His “an especially meritorious contriburoad.’

Career boycott of gas stations that denied full military rites and in the presence tion to the security or national inter- pivotal role as the inaugural field of- Battle of Normandy during World War ful She won the ‘TV Breakout Star’ award Her actingaccess career to began in 2014 whendisshe restroom Black patrons, fi cer for the NAACP in Mississippi II, drove Evers to confront the painful ests of the United States, world peace, of over mourners. from the3,000 Hollywood Critics Association played a minor role of ‘Nosisa’ in the poputributing bumper stickers emblazoned cultural, or other significant public or allowed him to forge new local chap- reality that even defending his nation lar Evers’ legacy endures, echoed in the TV and won the ‘Outstanding Performance South African Soap Opera ‘Isibaya’ with the rallying cry, “Don’t Buy Gas music of luminaries like Bob Dylan private endeavors.” The President per- ters, organize crucial voter registration did not shield him from the scourge of from in New Series’ award from the Gotham Mzansi Magic.

In 2015, she played a Where You Can’t Use the Restroom.” and Phil Ochs, and immortalized in sonally chooses the recipients of the drives, and lead historic protests for racism or guarantee him equal rights. role as ‘Kheti’ in the Second Season Awards.

The annual conferences held between desegregation in public schools, parks, According to his official NAACP bio, guest award. the lm “The of MissisIn 1996 2022, fiMbedu wasGhosts nominated for the of the SABC 2 youth drama series 1952 and 1954 in Mound Bayou‘Snake drew sippi.” His family, including his wife, Throughout his too-brief life, Evers and the iconic Mississippi Gold Coast following his studies at the histori- Park.’

‘Independent Spirit Awards (Best Female cally Black Alcorn State University tens of thousands, underscoring Evers’ Myrlie Evers-Williams, and brother stood as a beacon of courage against beaches.

She got her first starring role in the teen Performance in a New Scripted Series), for ability to inspire collective Evers’ journey as a civil rights activ- and his tenure selling life insurance in magnetic the entrenched racism of the segCharles, continued forth his role ‘Cora Randall’toincarry the 2021 televidrama television series ‘IS’THUNZI’ from her action. regated South. He waged a tireless ist began with a harrowing encounter Mound Bayou, a predominantly Black Mzansi torch.

Magic where playedrelentless ‘Winnie.’ sion series ‘The Underground Railroad.’

NAACP saidsheEvers’ battle against the oppressive Jim Crow when he and five friends were forcibly community, Evers assumed leader- HerThe international debut was in ‘The Un- She won the ‘Critics Choice Television derground Railroad’ an American fantasy Awards’ for ‘Best Actress in a Miniseries or historical drama series based on the novel Television Movie’ for her role ‘Cora Ran‘The Underground Railroad’ written by dall’ in ‘The Underground Railroad.’

In her keynote speech at TheWrap’s PowColson Whitehead.

In 2022, she starred in her first film ‘The er Women Summit, Thuso Mbedu tearfully Woman King’ an epic historical drama spoke of how she overcame the loss of her about Agosie, where an entire female war- dear parents, grandmother, and aunt. But rior unit protected the West African King- her role in Amanda Lane’s ‘IS’THUNZI’ dom of Dahomey in the 17 – 19th century. gradually renewed her hope in life. “…my world was that blur, until AmanShe played ‘Nawi’, a zealous recruit in the da Lane happened in 2016. The role that military unit.

In 2017, Mbedu was nominated for the Amanda Lane gave me was the difference ‘DSTV Viewers Choice Awards’ and the between life and death for me. Receiv‘International Emmy Awards for the ‘Best ing that audition brief, I told myself that Performance by an Actress’ for her role I would audition like it was my last audi‘Winnie Bhengu’ in the 2016 -2017 televi- tion. I gave it the last of everything that I had, that at the time I got the callback, I had sion drama series ‘IS’THUNZI.’ In 2018, she won the ‘South African Film nothing left. I secretly made the decision and Television Awards’ for ‘ Best Actress not to do the callback because I had noth– TV Drama’ for her role ‘Winnie Bhengu’ ing left to give. But fortunately, I received in the 2016 -2017 television drama series the callback. So I didn’t do the callback be‘IS’THUNZI.’ She was also nominated for cause the role was mine. I had given up. I the ‘International Emmy Awards for ‘Best was in a very dark place at the time, and the character, the role, the opportunity, was a no for down payment Performance by an Actress’ her role ‘Winnie Bhengu’ in the 0% television drama interest much needed light. And I told myself that I will act as if it was the last character that series ‘IS’THUNZI.’ mortgage more than I will exceeds play. And through a great script and In 2021, she was nominated for thenever an amazing director, I earned two ‘Television Critics Association Award’ 30% of a family's monthly income Interna(Individual Achievement in Drama), the tional Emmy Awards for that role…”

Mississippi Leaders Unite in Plea to Honor Medgar Evers with Medal of Freedom

1 in 6 U.S. households pay half or more of their income on housing.

Let's do something about it.

16

14

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Gratitude Can Help Your Health

Invest in UConn Bonds

Support Upgrades to Connecticut’s Flagship University University of Connecticut $356,730,000*

General Obligation Bonds Consisting of

$227,415,000*

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General Obligation Bonds, 2023 Series A

BlackHealthMatters.com Gratitude is more than a buzzword. It’s a habit and practice that may actually change your perception of well-being.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the coronavirus pandemic, all the changes it has brought to your life and everything you need to worry about to stay safe?

Or do you sometimes feel like you just can’t catch a break? You know—the truck that cut you off, the weird feedback you got from your boss, the grocery item you need but is never on the store shelf? Do you sometimes feel negative and cynical?

Sure, we all do this a little, but doing it a lot can lead to depression, which is linked to poor heart health, more inflammation and even a weaker immune system. Yikes!

Some neuroscience experts think our brains focus on negative information as a way to remember pain so we can avoid it in the future. They call this the “negativity bias.”

To balance out this natural tendency, we can practice gratitude.

“Gratitude is good medicine,” says Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis and author of The Little Book of Gratitude.

“Clinical trials indicate that the practice of gratitude can have dramatic and lasting effects in a person’s life. It can lower blood pressure and improve immune function. … Grateful people engage in more exercise, have better dietary behaviors, are less likely to smoke and abuse alcohol and have higher rates of medication adherence.”

Dang, being grateful is the gift that seriously keeps on giving, right? Who couldn’t use all these benefits right now?

Here’s a simple way to get started: Write these down before you go to bed or share them around the dinner table. In five minutes, you can practice gratitude from the heart.

1. Health: What did your body do for you today? Did you know you take about 8 million breaths a year? Your feet can take you up a mountain; your arms can hold someone you love. Take a minute to marvel at the finely tuned machinery of your body, and thank yourself for the steps you take every day to keep it safe and healthy.

2. Eat: What did you feed your body to nourish yourself today? Was it an old favorite, something you made or something new and different? If you eat three meals a day, you’ll eat about a thousand meals this year! Take a minute to savor an especially yummy meal.

3. Activity: What did you do that you really enjoyed today? Did you give it your all when exercising today, or find a quiet moment while sitting in traffic to reflect?

Take a minute to think back on one particularly awesome moment.

4. Relationship: Whom do you look forward to connecting with? Is it someone who sets your heart on fire, always has a smile for you, has your back or makes you laugh until you cry? Take a minute to smile as you think about this special person.

Then make plans for a virtual meet-up.

5. Time: What are you doing right now? Every single day you wake up with 24 brand new hours. The past is history, the future is a mystery and today is a gift.

That’s why they call it the present! Take a minute to be thankful for the gift of time, including any extra time you have right now for your family or yourself.

From American Heart Association News

General Obligation Bonds, 2023 Refunding Series A

The Treasurer of the State of Connecticut, on behalf of the University of Connecticut, announces the sale of University of Connecticut General Obligation Bonds. The Bonds are being issued pursuant to the UConn 2000 Act, which provides for a $4.6 billion, 32-year program to renew, rebuild and enhance the University’s campuses. In addition, the General Obligation Bonds, 2023 Series A and 2023 Refunding Series A are secured by the pledge of and a lien upon the State Debt Service Commitment. UConn is a public instrumentality and agency of the State of Connecticut.

Retail Order Period:* Monday, November 6, 2023 | Tuesday, November 7, 2023 Institutional Pricing:* Wednesday, November 8, 2023 Settlement Date:*

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Interest is exempt from federal and Connecticut state income tax.** Ratings from Moody’s, S&P and Fitch are Aa3, AA-, and AA- respectively.*** For further information, including access to the Preliminary Official Statement for the Bonds, please visit the websites or call any of the firms below:

buy

bonds.com

uconnbonds.com J.P. Morgan

Loop Capital Markets

855-231-8873 Piper Sandler & Co. 800-552-0614

212-619-2250

RBC Capital Markets

Stifel

860-657-1777

800-679-5446

American Veterans Group 646-933-8387

Bancroft Capital 484-546-8000

Barclays 212-528-1115

Blaylock Van LLC 877-591-7072

Cabrera Capital Markets 800-676-5352

Citigroup 800-846-5200

FHN Financial Capital Markets 800-934-8205

Janney Montgomery Scott 800-822-2014

Multi-Bank Securities, Inc. 888-857-6963

PNC Capital Markets 800-765-8472

Ramirez & Co 800-888-4086

Raymond James 877-295-9116

Rice Financial Products Company 888-740-7423

Roberts & Ryan 866-884-9959

Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC 800-334-6800

TD Securities 212-827-7172

UBS Financial Services 860-727-1500

UMB Bank, N.A 888-718-1556

Wells Fargo Securities 866-287-3221

*Preliminary, subject to change and availability. **Before purchasing bonds, you should consult with your tax advisor concerningyour particular tax situation. ***A credit rating of a security is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities and may be subject to review, revisions, suspension, reduction or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating agency.

These Bonds may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time an Official Statement is delivered in final form. Under no circumstances shall this announcement constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the Bonds in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. The Bonds will only be sold by means of an Official Statement.

17

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Maintainer I

NOTICE Entry-level position performing a variety of maintenance, repair and construction tasks.

Must have a valid State of CT driver’s license and a clean driving record, a CDL Class B is preferred. Requires 3 years experience in construction, grounds or building mainteMACRI RENTAL HOUSING PREAPPLICATIONS AVAILABLE nanceVALENTINA or in work involving the operation and care of construction equipment.

Pay rate: $22.48 to $26.66 hourly (wages under negotiation) plus an excellent fringe benefits HOME Applications INC, on behalf of Columbus House andthe theDepartment New HavenofHousing package. may be downloaded from Human Authority, Resources is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at thisTown devel-of Web Page and can be mailed or faxed to the Department of Human Resources, opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. limitations apWallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CTMaximum 06492, orincome emailed to: wlfdhr@ ply. Pre-applications be available 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y wallingfordct.gov. by thewill closing date of from November 6, 2023.

Phone: (203)294-2080; Fax: EOE 25,(203) 2016294-2084. 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.

MAINTAINER II

The Town of Wallingford is seeking applicants for Maintainer II. The position requires 2 years’ experience as a laborer in construction work involving the operation and care of trucks and other mechanical equipment, or 2 years training in one of the skilled trades and 1 year of experience in construction operations, or an equivalent combination of experience and training.

A valid (CDL) Class B is required andDISPONIBLES a copy included VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES with your application. Wages: $23.73 - $27.82 hourly (wages currently under negotiation) plus INC, an excellent fringe t package pension plan,Authority, paid sickestá and HOME en nombre de la benefi Columbus House that y de includes la New Haven Housing vacation time, 13 paid holidays. medical, dental and life insurance.

A complete job aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo announcement downloaded thelimitaciones Departmentdeofingresos Human ubicado en laand calleapplication 109 Frank may Street,beNew Haven. Sefrom aplican Resources and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town máximos.Web Las Page pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@ julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of November 6, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

NOTICIA

llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 .

THE GLENDOWER GROUP, INC. Request for Qualifications

Master Planner- Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan for The Union Square Neighborhood

NEW HAVEN

The Glendower Group, Inc. is currently seeking proposals for a Master Planner- Choice 242-258 Fairmont Ave Neighborhood Transformation Plan for The Union Square Neighborhood. A complete copy of the 2BR requirement may be obtained Townhouse, 1.5from BA,Glendower’s 3BR, 1 Vendor level Collaboration , 1BA Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95

highways, near bus stop & shopping center beginning on Monday, October 23, 2023, Pet under 40lb allowed.

Interested parties contact Mariaat@3:00PM. 860-985-8258

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

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 1:303:30Commercial Contact: Chairman, DeaconPreventative Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. Boiler Maintenance and Repair Services (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster St. New Haven, CT

IFB No. B23005

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

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN: Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 untilEnvelope 3:00 pmMust on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office 28 Smith Street, be Marked: IFB No. B23005, Commercial at Boiler Services Seymour, CT 06483Attn: for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Lisa Gilchrist, Purchasing Agent Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

November 8th, 2023 10:30am Authority (EST) A pre-bid conference will be held at theatHousing Office 28 Smith

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

CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT: Lisa Gilchrist – Purchasing Agent

Bidding documents areTelephone: available203-744-2500 from the Seymour x1421 Housing Authority OfE-Mail: lgilchrist@hacdct.org fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

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

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

Town of Bloomfield

Salary Range:

$87,727 to $136,071 Deputy Finance Director/Controller Pre-employment drug testing.

AA/EOE. For Details go to www.bloomfieldct.org

HAMDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS The Hamden Public School System (HPS) located in Hamden, Connecticut seeks Connecticut certified teachers who have a passion for working in diverse and dynamic school settings. The ideal candidate has experience working in culturally, socioeconomically, and racially diverse learning environments.

HPS has approximately 5,600 students attending 8 elementary schools, 1 middle School, 1 high school, and 1 secondary alternative program (HCLC). Our demographics are as follows: 32% Black/African-American students; 25% White students; 28% Hispanic (Latinx) students; 7% Asian students; 7% Two or more races; and less than 1% Native American and Pacific Islander students.

We are seeking candidates for multiple positions, including but not limited to:

Town of Bloomfield

• Special Education (pre-K thru 12) • World Language • Social Work • Head Girls Gymnastics Coach • Head Boys Lacrosse Coach • Custodial • School Nurse

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 full-time Go to www.portlandct.org for details

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

While we are seeking candidates for these positions specifically, we encourage holders of certificates in other areas to apply as well. It is also important to note here that the Hamden Board of Education is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse teaching staff.

Interested candidates can access Hamden.org, click on the Personnel tab, and then click on Online Applications. Anyone seeking additional information can contact Hamden Public Schools Assistant Superintendents, Erin Bailey (Elementary) at ebailey@ hamden.org or Linda Tran (Secondary) at ltran@hamden.org. For coaching positions, please contact Director of Athletics, Tom Dyer at tdyer@hamden.org.

Invitation to Bid: It is the policy of Hamden Public Schools that no person shall be excluded from, de2nd Notice

nied the benefits of, or otherwise discriminated against under any program including

Old Saybrook, CT APPLY NOW! (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

employment, because of race, color, religious creed, sex, age national origin, ancestry, SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE marital status, sexual orientation, past or present history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability.

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders 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

Transportation Planner – Project Manager

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, CastSouth Vinyl Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) is seeking to fill the in-place Concrete, AsphaltThe Shingles, Siding, Transportation Planner – Project Manager position. Visit www.scrcog.org for the full Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, position description, qualifications, and application requirements. Applications are to State of Connecticut Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fireby Protection. be submitted noon on Monday, September 11, 2023, or until the position is filled.

Office of Policy Questions may be emailed to jobs@scrcog.org. SCRCOG is an Affirmative Action/ This contract subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements. andisManagement Equal Opportunity Employer.

The State of Connecticut, Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 Office of Policy and Management Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 is recruiting for an Information Technology Technician hour).

Project(40documents available via ftp link below:

Request for Qualifications

Further information regarding http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) the duties, eligibility seeks the services of one or more consultants for transportation planrequirements and application Faxinstructions or Email Questions & Bids to:at: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com are available ning studies during the 2024 and 2025 Fiscal Years (July 1, 2023- June HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses https://www.jobapscloud.com/ 30, 2025).

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms are strongly enHaynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= couraged to respond as prime contractor or to play a significant role 230927&R2=7602FR&R3=001 AA/EEO EMPLOYER within a consultant team.

Responses are due by November 22, 2023, The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and (12 noon local time).

The full RFQ document can be viewed at the strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

Council’s website: www.scrcog.org or can be made available upon request. Contact James Rode at 203-466-8623 with any questions.

18

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 2023 - November 14, 2023 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27,08, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Construction

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Construction Equipment Mechanic preferably experienced in Seeking to employ experienced individuals in the labor, Reclaiming and Road Milling Equipment. We offer factory foreman, operator and teamster trades for a heavy outside training on equipment we operate. Location: Bloomfield work statewide. Reliable personal transportation and a valCT We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits id drivers license required. To apply please call (860) 621Contact: Tom Dunay VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE 1720 or send resume to: Personnel Department, P.O. Box 368, Cheshire, CT06410.

Phone: 860- 243-2300 HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, Email: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom this develAffiatrmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to applyapartments Drug Free Workforce opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven.

Maximum income limitations apAffirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer ply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:will be mailied upon rebeen received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications Reclaimer and Milling with current quest byOperators calling HOME INC atOperators 203-562-4663 duringlicensing those hours. Completed preand clean driving record, be willing to travel throughout the NorthLargeStreet, CT Fence applications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Third Company looking for an individual for our east & NY. We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits PVC Fence Production Shop. Experience preferred but will Floor, New Haven, CT 06510. train the right person. Must be familiar with carpentry hand Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300 & power tools and be able to read a CAD drawing and tape Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com measure. Use of CNC Router machine a plus but not required, will train the right person. This is an in-shop production poWomen & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Duties include building fence panels, posts, gates and AffirmativeMACRI Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer VALENTINA VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDESsition.

DISPONIBLES more. Must have a valid CT driver’s license & be able to obtain a Drivers Medical HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está Card. Must be able to pass a physical and drug test. Please email resume to pboucher@atlasoutdoor.com.

Tractor Trailer Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction Equipaceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ment. Must have a CDL License, clean driving record, capable of AA/EOE-MF ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos operating heavy equipment; be willing to travel throughout the máximos.

Las We pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m.tscomenzando Martes 25 Northeast & NY. offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefi Full Time julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100)Administrative assistant position en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición for a steel & misc metals fabrication shop who will oversee the llamandoEmail: a HOMEdana.briere@garrityasphalt.com INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirseof clerical duties such as answering phones, acdaily operations Women & Minority encouraged to apply a las oficinas de HOMEApplicants INC en 171are Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 .purchase orders/invoicing and certified payroll. counts payable Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer Email resumes to jillherbert@gwfabrication.com

NOTICE

PVC FENCE PRODUCTION

NOTICIA

Union Company seeks:

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

LEGAL NOTICE

NEW HAVEN Request for Proposals (RFP) for Services 242-258 Fairmont Ave 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management, is seeking proposals to provide certain services related to a Study of Connecticut’s existing employee assistance programs for people with intellectual or developmental disability or new otherappliances, disabilities.new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 All new apartments,

highways, near bus stop & shopping center

The intent of the request is to identify individuals or firms with the necessary expertise to provide a reportInterested and workforce plan within stated timeframe.

Pet under 40lb allowed. parties contact Mariaa @ 860-985-8258 The RFP is available online at: https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/ BidBoard and https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Root/RFP/Request-ForCT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s Proposals or This from Blancato, Office ofinPolicy and formation Management, Certificate Program. is a Allison 10 month program designed to assist the intellectual of Candidates in responseand to theHuman Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125.

Classes start Saturday, 20, 2016 1:30Health Services Division, 450 Capitol Ave., August MS#55SEC, 3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. Hartford, Connecticut 06106-1379. E-mail: OPM.IDDEmployment@ (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster ct.gov. Telephone (860)418-6400. Deadline for response submission is St. NewP.M., Haven, December CT 5:00 22, 2023.

SEYMOURDISPATCHER HOUSING AUTHORITY

Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour Theuntil Town of Wallingford is seeking responsible candidates to perform police, fire 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 911, Smith Street, and EMS emergency dispatching duties. Must be able to work under stressful conditions Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the and be able to type information with a high rate of speed and accuracy. Must be able to Smithfield Gardens Assisted Livingand Facility, 26 and Smith work all three shifts including weekends holidays be Street able to Seymour. work additional

shifts beyond the regular shift schedule. Requires a H.S. or business school diploma with courses in typing and 2 years of responsible office work experience. Wages: $ 23.72 ~ A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith $28.28 hourly plus shift differential and excellent fringe benefits. Closing date is October Seymour, CTreceipt at 10:00 Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

16,Street 2023, or the date of of theam, 50thonapplication, whichever occurs first. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main St., Wallingford, CT 06492.

Forms will be mailed upon request fromthe theSeymour Department of Human Resources Bidding documents are available from Housing Authority Of-or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to fice, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 Fax: (203)203-294-2084.

888-4579. EOE. wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov.

Phone: 203-294-2080,

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

WATER TREATMENT The Town of Wallingford Water Division is seeking qualified candidates for Water Treatment Pumping Operator I to operate and maintain the Town’s potable (drinking) water treatment plant and pumping, storage tank, pressure regulating and groundwater well facilities. Must possess a H.S. diploma or equivalent with 1 year of experience involving the operation and maintenance of equipment used in water supply and treatment; or a technical high school diploma with demonstrated career and technical education related to electronics technology, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or water supply and treatment activities and operation; or completion of a program in water management. Applicants must possess State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Class I (WTP I) or higher Water Treatment Plant Operator certification, and completion of a program in water management or have the ability to obtain both within twelve (12) months from the date of hire. Must possess and maintain a State of Connecticut driver’s license. Wages: $28.03 - $34.05 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and a deferred compensation plan. A complete job announcement and application may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov.

Phone # 203-294-2080, Fax # 203-294-2084. The closing date will be the date the 50th application/resume is received, or October 24, 2023 whichever occurs first. EOE

Construction

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

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V

Drug Free Workforce

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management Invitation to Bid:

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES Invitation for Bids

Unarmed Security Services The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for an OPM Assistant Division Elm City Communities is currently seeking bids for Services of a firm to proCT Director in the Office of Finance.Old Saybrook, vide Unarmed Security Services. A complete copy of the requirement may be 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

17 Units)from Elm City Communities’ Vendor Collaboration Portal https://neFurther information regarding (4 Buildings,obtained the duties,Tax eligibility Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project whavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on requirements and application instructions are available at:

Monday, November New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Cast- 6, 2023, at 3:00PM. https://www.jobapscloud.com/ CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, 230908&R2=0104MP&R3=001 Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, The State of Connecticut is an equal The Town of East Haven is currently accepting applications from qualified opportunity/affirmative action employer and Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. candidates for the position of Mechanic. The starting salary is $55,393 per year and strongly encourages the applications of offers an excellent benefit package. Only candidates with at least 6 years of women, This minorities, contractand is persons subjectwithtodisabilities. state set-asidethe andtown contract compliance requirements. experience in motor-mechanic work, a High School Diploma or GED supplemented by trade school training and a CDL, class 2 will be considered. Applications are available Bid Extended, Due Date: 5, 2016 onlineAugust at http://www.townofeasthavenct.org/civiltest.shtml or the Civil Service Office, Anticipated Start: 250 August 15, 2016 Main Street, East Haven CT. The deadline for submission is November 22, 2023.

QSR STEEL Project documents available via ftp link below: The Town of East Haven is committed to building a workforce of diverse individuals.

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

APPLY NOW!

Minorities, Females, Handicapped and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Transportation Planner – Project Manager

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 Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders AA/EEO EMPLOYER The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) is seeking to fill the Top pay for top performers. Health Transportation Planner – Project Manager position. Visit www.scrcog.org for the full posiBenefits, 401K, Vacation Pay. tion description, qualifications, and application requirements. Applications are to be submitted by noon on Monday, September 11, 2023, or until the position is filled. Questions Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT may be emailed to jobs@scrcog.org. SCRCOG is an Affirmative Action/Equal OpportuAFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER nity Employer.

19

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 2023 - November 14, 2023 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27, 08, 2016 - August 02, 2016

Continuum of Care, New Haven, Connecticut – LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BID

NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BID: CONTINUUM OF CARE, NEW HAVEN is requesting licensed and insured contractors to provide bids for their property located at 310 Winthrop Avenue, New Haven. The owner is seeking VALENTINA RENTAL HOUSING PRE-Scope APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE proposals for theMACRI Hardwood Floor Refinishing of 310 Winthrop, a threefamily property. Finish plan will be provided at open bid visit which details the INC, of Columbus House andasthe Newstairwell, Haven Housing Authority, refiHOME nishing of on keybehalf locations of property such main 1st fl offi ce, and is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this develsecond floor unit.

Owner to select stain color.

The project is CDBG funded by opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven.

Maximum income limitations apthe City of New Haven. Project is tax-exempt and Davis/Bacon/Prevailing Wage ply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y rate. The selected company and any subcontractors must comply with EEOC 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have workforce requirements. City of New Haven Chapter 12 ¼ of the New Haven been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon recode of Ordinances (MBE subcontracting ) applies- Minority/women’s business quest by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preenterprises are encouraged to apply. A bidding site meeting will be held at 310 applications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Winthrop avenue, New Haven on Thursday, 9/7/2023 at 12:30pm. All bids are Floor, New Haven, CT 06510. due by 9/15/2023 by 3pm. All bids and questions should be submitted in writing to Monica O’Connor via email moconnor@continuumct.org or delivered to 109 Legion Avenue, New Haven.

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

360 MANAGEMENT GROUP, CO.

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 Invitation for Bids ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos Agency Wide and09Lock Services máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estaránKey disponibles a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) 360 Group,INC. Co. is seeking bids for agency widea key and en Management las oficinas de HOME Lascurrently pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo petición lock services.

A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from 360 llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse Management Vendor Collaboration https://newhavenhousing. a las oficinas deGroup’s HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, Portal tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 . cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Monday, October 2, 2023 at 3:00PM.

NEW HAVENFOR BID NOTICE OF REQUEST

242-258 OF Fairmont Ave OF DANBURY HOUSING AUTHORITY THE CITY Commercial Boiler Preventative 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 Maintenance BA, 3BR,and 1 Repair level Services , 1BA

No. B23005 All new apartments, new IFB appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near bus stop & shopping center Please register here to obtain Bid Package: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/ Pet under 40lb allowed.

Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258 requests.html?company_id=49968 PROPOSAL SUBMITTAL RETURN:

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 Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:303:30 Contact: Chairman, Joe J. Davis, Envelope MustDeacon be Marked: IFB M.S., No.B.S. B23005, Commercial Boiler Services (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster St. New Haven, CT

Attn: Lisa Gilchrist, Purchasing Agent

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE November 8th, 2023 at 10:30am (EST)

SEYMOUR HOUSING CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB AUTHORITY DOCUMENT:

– Purchasing Agent Sealed bids are invitedLisa byGilchrist the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour Telephone: 203-744-2500 x1421 until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, E-Mail: lgilchrist@hacdct.org Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the [Minorityand/orAssisted women-owned are Smith encouraged respond] Smithfield Gardens Livingbusinesses Facility, 26 StreettoSeymour.

INVITATION TO BID

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.

Subcontractors are invited to bid on the RE-BID Downtown Evening Kitchen Addition and Renovations. 266 State St New Haven, CT 06510. The project consists of new Stair/Elevator Addition 850sf, and Gut Reno 5,400sf to the 4 Floors.

BIDS DUE October 13, 2023. Send email to ngorneault@pacgroupllc.com for copy of the detailed Invite and Trade Bid Packages. Project partially funded by DECD, DOH, DEM. This project is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements. An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Minor-

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

ity/Women's Business Enterprises are encouraged to apply.

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

APPLY NOW!

THE ELM CITYCOMMUNITIES, HOUSING AUTHORITY OF NEW HAVEN (ECC/HANH) MOVING TO WORK (MTW) FY2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

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

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management

Section II and Section VII of the Authority's Moving to Work Agreement {the "Agreement") requires that before the Agency can file its Approved Annual Moving to Work Plan and Report to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (the "HUD") that it must conduct a public hearing, consider comments from the public on the proposed amendments, obtain approval from the Board of Commissioners, and submit the amendments to HUD. The thirty (30) days comment period begins on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 and copies of the Moving to Work (MTW) FY2023 Report, will be made available on the agency website www.elmcitycommunities.org or via Twitter, www.twitter.com/ECCommunities or via Facebook www.facebook.com/ElmCityCommunities.

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

You are invited to provide written comments addressed to: ECC/HANH, Moving To Work FY2023 Annual Report, Attn: Evelise Ribeiro, 360 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 06511 or via email to: eribeiro@elmcitycommunities.org.

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

Pursuant to said Sections II and VII), a public hearing where public comments will be accepted and recorded is scheduled for Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 3:00pm via RingCentral: https://v.ringcentral.com/join/975943490?pw=2e34ff6769797e68e9 6a95bb953d0d81

https://www.jobapscloud.com/ CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= 230417&R2=6342MP&R3=001

Meeting ID: 975943490 Password: yozWY5m3ib

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

Or dial: 267-930-4000 United States Access Code / Meeting ID: 975943490 Dial-in password: 9699956342

WANTED

Any individual requiring a Reasonable Accommodation to participate in the hearing may call the Reasonable Accommodation Manager (203) 498-8800, ext. 1507 or at the TDD Number (203) 497-8434.

to Bid: TRUCK DRIVERInvitation 2 Notice nd

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE Truck Driver with clean

CDL license(4 Buildings, 17 Units) Old Saybrook, CT

LEGAL NOTICE

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Services

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management, is seeking

to Project provide services related to the statutory definition associated with Tax Exempt & Not Prevailingproposals Wage Rate intellectual disability and developmental disabilities and the state’s evaluation of its level of need tool.

Please send resume to Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, CastNew Construction, Wood Framed, The intent of the request is to identify individuals or firms with the necessary attielordan@gmail.com in-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Siding, consulting services and the ability to draft a statutorily expertiseVinyl to provide

PJF Construction Corporation mandated report within a stated timeframe.

Flooring, Painting, DivisionAA/EOE 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework,

The RFP available online at: https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fireis Protection. and https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Root/RFP/Request-For-Proposals or from This contract is subject to state set-aside andAlexis contract compliance requirements.

Aronne, Office of Policy and Management, Health and Human Services

Town of Bloomfield

Policy and Planning

Division, 450 Capitol Ave., MS# 55SEC, Hartford, Con-

E-mail: OPM.LONDefinitionStudy@ct.gov. Telephone Bid Extended, Due Date:necticut August 06106-1379.

5, 2016 Assistant Building Official (860) 418-6223. Deadline for response submission is 5:00 P.M., December Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016 13, 2023. $39.80 Project hourly documents available via ftp link below: Pre-employment drug testing. http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage AA/EOE.

Listing: Mechanic

For Details go to www.bloomfieldct.org 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 06483for a full time mechanic; maintenance to be done Immediate opening AA/EEO EMPLOYER Full Time – All Shifts Top

DRIVER CDL CLASS A Pay-Full Benefits

EOE Please apply in person: 1425 Honeyspot Rd. Ext. Stratford, CT 06615

20

on commercial diesel trucks and trailers. Send resume to: HR Manager, P. O. Box 388, Guilford, CT 06437 or email hrdept@eastriverenergy.com

********An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer**********

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 2023 - November 14, 2023 INNER-CITY NEWS July 27,08, 2016 - August 02, 2016

AVISO DE AUDIÊNCIA PÚBLICA PARA

THE ELM CITYCOMMUNITIES, AUTORIDADE DE VIVIENDA DE NEWHAVEN (ECC/HANH) MUDANZA PARA O TRABALJO (MTW) RELATÓRIO ANUAL DE 2023

NOTICE

La Sección II y la Sección VII del Acuerdo de Mudarse al Trabajo de la Autoridad VALENTINArequieren MACRIque RENTAL PRE- APPLICATIONS {el "Acuerdo") antes HOUSING de que la Agencia pueda presentarAVAILABLE su Plan Anual Aprobado de Mudarse al Trabajo e informar al Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo HOME on behalf of "HUD") Columbus and theuna New Haven Housing Urbano deINC, los EE. UU. (el se House debe realizar audiencia pública, Authority, considerar accepting pre-applications and one-bedroom apartments at this devellosiscomentarios del público sobreforlasstudio enmiendas propuestas, obtener la aprobación de la Junta de Comisionados y presentar las enmiendas al HUD. opment located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven.

Maximum income limitations ap-

ply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y El 25, período comentarios de treinta (30) días comienza el (approximately Miércoles, 1 de 100) Noviembre 2016deand ending when sufficient pre-applications have delbeen 2023received y las copias deloffices Informe to Work (MTW) para fiscalupon 2023reesat the of Moving HOME INC. Applications will el beaño mailied tarán disponibles en el sitio web de la agencia www.elmcitycommunities.org o a través quest by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed prede applications Twitter, www.twitter. com/ECCommunities o a offices través de Facebook www.facebook. must be returned to HOME INC’s at 171 Orange Street, Third com/ElmCityCommunities.

Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Le invitamos a enviar comentarios por escrito dirigidos a: ECC/HANH, Moving To Work FY2023 Annual Report, a la atención de: Evelise Ribeiro, 360 Orange Street, New Haven, CT 06511 o por correo electrónico a: eribeiro@elmcitycommunities.org.

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES De conformidad con dichas Secciones II y VII, una audiencia pública donde se aceptarán

y registrarán comentarios públicos está programada para el Martes 28 de Noviembre del HOME nombre de ladeColumbus Househttps://v.ringcentral.com/join/975943490? y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está 2023 a lasINC, 3:00en p.m. a través RingCentral: aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo pw=2e34ff6769797e68e96a95bb953d0d81

ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes ID estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 de reunión: 975943490 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se hanContraseña: recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) yozWY5m3ib en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición O durante marcar: llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse Unidos a las oficinas de HOME 267-930-4000 INC en 171 OrangeEstados Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510 .

Clave de Acceso / ID de Reunión: 975943490 Contraseña de acceso telefónico: 9699956342

Cualquier persona que requiera una Adaptación Razonable para participar en la audiencia puede llamar al Gerente de Adaptación Razonable (203) 498-8800, ext. 1507 o al Número TDD (203) 497-8434.

NEW HAVEN 242-258 Fairmont Ave ELECTRIC UTILITY 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA

All new apartments, new Division appliances, new carpet, to I-91for&the I-95highly The Town of Wallingford Electric is seeking qualifiedclose applicants technical position of highways, Distributionnear Engineer.

Successful applicants will work in the debus stop & shopping center sign and development of overhead and underground power distribution lines. This highly under 40lb allowed. parties10contact @ 860-985-8258 reliable Pet municipal-owned electricInterested utility, located miles Maria from New Haven, CT, serves 25,000 customers in a 50+ square mile distribution area with a peak demand of 130 MW with an excellent rate structure. Applicants should possess 2 years of responsible experiCT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s ence in utility engineering, a program bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, equivaCertificate Program.

This is a 10plus month designed to assist in the intellectual formationor of an Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministryand needs.

The cost is experience $125. Classes substituting start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:30lent combination of education qualifying on a year-for-year 3:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. basis.

Salary: $84,586 to $108,221 annually plus on-call stipend when assigned. The Town (203) 996-4517 Host, General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor of Pitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacaSt. New Haven, CT tion 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 mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of December 5, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Responsible the sampling and Living laboratory analysis26ofSmith domestic andSeymour. industrial water SmithfieldforGardens Assisted Facility, Street

Laboratory Technician

and wastewater. Requires an A.S. degree in biology, chemistry or related field and 2 years experience in laboratory analysis. Experience and training may be substituted on a year for A pre-bid conference will beofheld the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith year basis. Must have a valid State CT at driver’s license. $28.82 to $34.64 hourly plus an Street fringe Seymour, at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, 20, 2016. excellent benefiCT t package.

Apply: Human ResourcesJuly Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Ofof Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov. Phone# (203) fice, 28Fax Smith Street, Seymour, 06483 (203) 888-4579.

294-2080, #: (203) 294-2084 TheCT closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received, or November 14, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE

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

Town of Bloomfield Patrol Police Officer

$37.93 hourly ($78,885 annually) – full time, benefited Pre-employment drug testing.

For more details, visit our website – www.bloomfieldct.org Deadline: Applications will be accepted until position is filled

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

Village at Park River Phase 6 formerly Westbrook Village 6 144 Mark Twain Dr Hartford, CT

Project Description: New Construction of 2 wood framed four-story multifamily housing buildings Bldg A=32 units, Bldg B=44 units, approx. total gsf=103,255

Project Documents include but not limited to:

Earthwork/Site-work, fencing, landscaping, paving, concrete, cast underlayment (gypcrete), masonry, rough carpentry labor and materials, finish carpentry, final cleaning, insulation, roofing, siding, doors & hardware labor & material, aluminum framed entrances & storefronts, plastic windows, gypsum board (drywall), flooring, painting, signage, toilet, bath & laundry accessories, wardrobe & closet specialties, postal specialties, manufactured fireplace, wire mesh storage lockers, residential appliances, residential casework & countertops, window treatments, elevator, waste compactors and trash chutes, fire suppression, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and sanitary facilities.

Project is Taxable. Residential Wage Rate Project This project is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements, as well as, City of Hartford set-aside and contract requirements.

Bid Due Date: 11/10/23 @ 1:00pm

Police Officer full-time

Email Questions & Bids to: Taylor Els Tels@haynesct.com

Go to www.portlandct.org for details

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

Invitation to Bid:

If interested in bidding and have not received an ITB please email tels@haynesct.com with your business name, address, your 1st and last name, email address, phone # and trade(s) you would like to bid. You will be added to Procore and an ITB will be sent for easy access to plans and specifications.

Invitation to Bid: HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses 2nd Notice Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

Old Saybrook, CT APPLY NOW! (4 Buildings,Accountant 17 Units) I:

$71,503/year. The Town of East Haven is currently accept-

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders ing applications from qualified candidates to participate in the Civil Service ExTax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project Top pay for top performers. Health amination for Accountant. A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting plus 2 years of Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay. experience is required.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, CastCandidates bilingual in Spanish are encouraged to apply. The town offers an in-place Concrete, Asphaltexcellent Shingles,benefi Vinyl Siding, t package. Applications to participate in the examination are Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, available at The Civil Service Office, 250 Main Street, East Haven CT or online Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. at http://www.townofeasthavenct.org/civiltest.shtml.

The deadline for submisState of Connecticut Office of Policy is November 22, 2023.

The Town of East Haven is committed to building a This contract is subject to state set-asidesion and contract compliance requirements.

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

and Management

workforce of diverse individuals. Minorities, Females, Handicapped and Veter-

ans are encouraged Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 to apply.

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management isAnticipated recruiting Start: August 15, 2016 for an OPM Assistant Division Project documents available via ftp link below: Director in the Office of Finance. http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage Further information regarding

Payroll

Payroll Clerk- Performs responsible office work in the processing of all general governthe duties, eligibility and application ment payrolls and maintain all payroll records. The position requires a H.S. diploma Faxrequirements or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com instructions are available at: of all Veteran,orS/W/MBE G.E.D,&plus 5 years of Businesses experience in responsible office work involving typing, acHCC encourages the participation Section 3 Certified

counting, data entry and payroll processing. $27.22 to $32.68 hourly plus https://www.jobapscloud.com/ Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave,bookkeeping, Seymour, CT 06483 CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?b=&R1= an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town AA/EEO EMPLOYER 230908&R2=0104MP&R3=001 of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed

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

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upon request from the Department of Human Resources or maybe downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov. The closing date will be the date that the 50th application form/resume is received, or September 11, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Black Health Matters Names New Editorial Director

NEW YORK, Nov. 7, 2023 / PRNewswire/ -- Black Health Matters (BHM) announced Corynne L. Corbett has been named editorial director for the nation's leading provider of digital health and wellness solutions for African American consumers and patients. BHM's various online and experiential events are dedicated to educating and empowering African Americans with information rooted in medical expertise and providing the tools necessary to optimize their health.

Ms. Corbett comes to BHM with more than twenty-five years of experience in communications, including roles as executive editor, strategist, editor-in-chief, and senior manager across various platforms and publications. Her past positions include Beauty Director of ESSENCE Communications, Executive Editor of Real Simple Magazine, Editor in Chief of Heart & Soul Magazine, and senior editorial and leadership positions with Mode and ELLE magazines.

"BHM is delighted to find the intellect that will connect us to the health

and wellness interests of women of color. Corynne's professional background illustrates her ability to influence and enlighten women of color at every life stage," said Roslyn Young Daniels, founder and president of Black Health Matters. "We are excited to see how she'll utilize her decades of editorial experience to engage with our audience to help improve health outcomes."

Ms. Corbett will be responsible for guiding Black Health Matters' editorial vision as the company moves into its second decade of raising awareness about chronic conditions and disease states that disproportionately affect African Americans. In her new role at BHM, she will lead in developing the editorial voice for all aspects of the company's online and offline presence, managing and creating content, editorial planning, writing, and conducting interviews about medical topics and advances.

"I am excited about joining Black Health Matters because our work not only enlightens and empowers our audience but can also save their lives,"

Ms. Corbett said.

Corynne L. Corbett holds a Master of Professional Studies in Technology Entrepreneurship from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Merchandising and Management from Pratt Institute.

About Black Health Matters. Founded in 2012 by Roslyn Young Daniels, Black Health Matters' mission is to continue to be the leading evidence-based, chronic disease management and wellness resource for African Americans. We exist to radically redefine health and wellness for Black Americans by empowering them to demand the best in healthcare utilizing our multi-platform approach.

We reach over one million African Americans interested in health monthly across our ecosystem that includes digital, social, and experiential. We create a culture of health where Black Americans can achieve their best quality of life possible and work with the top pharmaceutical companies across the country.

Corynne L. Corbett to guide all editorial aspects of the health communications company

5 Ways to Handle Grief During the Holidays

By BlackHealthMatters.com

It’s never easy to deal with a loss, but the holiday season has a tendency to bring up painful reminders of deceased loved ones.

And this year, many Americans may be dealing with grief over the holidays for the first time, as we mourn family and friends who lost their lives to COVID-19.

It’s not just death that can cause grief over the holidays. In fact, it’s likely most people are coping with a variety of losses this year, from the loss of a job to a loss of a relationship as a result of being geographically distant or feeling isolated from people they love.

Starting around Thanksgiving, many people who have lost loved ones experience sorrow as they’re reminded of memories from those who are no longer near.

Holiday traditions meant to bring joy, like trimming the Christmas tree or listening to holiday music, can trigger feelings of intense grief as we remember holidays past and wonder how to celebrate the festive season without the people we love.

Grief is complicated and looks different for everyone. Sometimes, it’s surprising.

Whether your loss is fresh or you’ve lost someone decades ago, unexpected feelings of sadness and loss can surface that aren’t necessarily attached to a specific memory.

For some, these moments of grief can appear out of nowhere. For others, grief over the holidays is expected and dreaded. This

year, the public health crisis that has affected all of us in different ways may result in added grief on top of an already emotionally loaded time of year.

There’s no right way to grieve, but there are things you can do to try to cope over the holidays while acknowledging and expressing your sadness.

How to deal with grief over the holidays: 1. Accept the emotions that you’re feeling. The holidays can generate exaggerated feelings as the pressure to be merry collides

with the reality. Grief can present itself in a variety of emotions, from sadness or anxiety to irritability or anger. Everyone grieves differently. But that can be difficult when you’re around family members who expect you to show sadness in the same way—or even hide it. But, you’re human and allowed to feel a wide range of emotions, including both grief and joy. Sometimes you may even feel happy and sad within a few minutes. It’s healthy to acknowledge your emotions and accept how you’re feeling

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rather than try to escape it.

2. Show yourself kindness. It may sound simple, but self-care is one of the best ways to deal with grief over the holidays. Think about how you would care for others in your life experiencing loss, then apply the same measures of compassion and grace to yourself. When grief hits hard, try to find things to do that help you feel supported and restored, whether that means getting outside for some exercise, meditating or journaling.

3. Find ways to incorporate memories of your loved ones into holiday traditions. One way to deal with grief over the holidays is to memorialize the legacy of someone you’ve lost and keep their memory alive.

Whether you incorporate them into existing traditions or establish new celebrations, it can be therapeutic to remember the lives of those who’ve died. Here are a few ways you can honor the life of loved ones over the holidays: • Set a place for them at the table • Tell stories about them related to the holidays • Create an altar with favorite pictures and mementos • Write them a letter or email • Prepare a lost loved one’s favorite holiday dish • Light a candle in their memory 4. Talk to someone. Experts know grief needs to be heard and witnessed. Try to find someone who you know is a good listener

and admit to them when you’re having a hard time. Healing can begin when we’re able to speak our grief into existence. And, when you’re in the listener’s role, remember it’s not up to you to fix it. There’s no fixing grief. Instead, listen without judgment and remember that anything they’re feeling is OK. This is especially true for parents of kids who may also be grieving. Kids need permission to feel all kinds of emotions, even if their grief manifests differently than yours. If you can help them normalize their feelings, whether that’s joy amidst sorrow or guilt coupled with happiness, you can help them to work through the grieving process in a healthy way.

5. Seek additional help. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, or you’re experiencing overwhelming grief for weeks or months, it may be helpful to seek counseling services from a therapist or psychologist.

It’s healthy to ask for support, even if it’s outside of your inner circle. A professional counselor can serve as an active listener who can help you find healthy ways to cope with your grief, especially over the holidays.

Whether your grief is new this holiday season, or you struggle with sadness this time every year, know you’re not alone.

And those feelings won’t last forever.

While the holidays may never feel the same, time and support can help you make it through to the New Year a little bit easier.

THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

Where innovative heart research becomes personalized heart care.

Our Heart and Vascular Center leads the region in advancing cardiovascular care. With the brightest physicians, more than 150 research scientists and over 200 clinical trials, our groundbreaking treatments are improving lives today and ensuring better outcomes tomorrow.

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THE INNER-CITY NEWS - November 08, 2023 - November 14, 2023

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Restrictions apply. Only available in areas within range of applicable 4G LTE cellular signal. Limited to Xfinity Internet customers with 800 Mbps service or higher and compatible Xfinity Gateway. Storm-Ready WiFi device requires Xfinity Battery Backup, included in price. Fully charged Xfinity Battery Backup will provide up to 4 hours of power to the Xfinity Storm-Ready WiFi device. Device runs on cellular 4G LTE (data plans not affected).

During outages, internet will be reduced to speeds up to 30 Mbps download / 7 Mbps upload. Actual speeds will vary and are not guaranteed and may be impacted by a variety of environmental and other factors, including network congestion. Xfinity does not guarantee that 4G LTE will be available in all locations or that a connection will be obtainable. Storm-Ready WiFi may not be compatible with all changes in the network.

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