The Newspaper Of Harlem Rbi | Dream Charter School | Written By Harlem Rbi And Dream Youth
VOLUME 21, ISSUE 1 | FALL 2013
The Newly Crowned Prince Harry of Harlem By Jasmine Moreira, 12th Grade, Lady Yanks When I first heard that Harlem RBI was hosting a special event with an important visitor, the details were very vague. I was told that I would be leading baseball and softball clinics with the other seniors for the students at DREAM Charter School during the visit. That was it. We were left in the dark about who was actually coming and why this was so important to Harlem RBI. Still, I found myself interested in solving this mystery. So I did whatever I could to be a part of this event, including attending preparation meetings with various Harlem RBI staff. Even after the meetings, I was still so curious about who was coming to visit Harlem RBI and DREAM. Every time I asked who was coming, Harlem RBI staff responded by saying he was famous. I never would have guessed that he was a part of the royal family! On the day of the event, I left school early to go to the Field of Dreams. There, I saw a big group of photographers, security guards and policemen. They were all over 101st Street. As I walked toward the Harlem RBI office, I noticed a rope guarding the entrance to the field. I thought to myself, “This person must be really important!” As I walked along 100th Street, a lady noticed my Harlem RBI t-shirt and stopped to ask if I was a part of the event. “Yes,” I replied. Then, with a huge smile on her face, she asked, “Are you excited to meet Prince Harry of Wales?” In my mind I was ecstatic. But I tried to keep my cool. So I said, “Yes! We have been preparing for this day for weeks.” After chatting with her for a few minutes, I met up with the other coaches and coordinators. Once I saw them, I screamed as loud as I could, “The Prince is coming!” Everyone smiled, laughed and cheered. Then, we got ready for the event as our Program Coordinator Josh Van Kirk handed us our nametags and special VIP entrance cards. It was so cool. We went to the field and were assigned the clinic stations. Then, we went to our spots and began the clinics for the DREAM students. The moment came when Prince Harry was about to enter the Field of Dreams. There was a big crowd lined up on East 101st Street. Later on, I found out that my mom was there. That was funny because I had no idea! All the photographers were taking pictures and people were in awe of Prince Harry’s presence. Harlem RBI
Prince Harry visits Harlem RBI to promote a partnership between Harlem RBI and Project Coach.
Board member and New York Yankee Mark Teixeira took Prince Harry to all the different stations. At each station, the kids would explain what the drill and how it helped them become a better baseball or softball player. After that, Prince Harry would try each drill, demonstrating the skills he just learned.
After that, he left our station and we thanked him for coming. As the event finished up, we sat the kids on the field for a ceremony, where we presented Prince Harry with a Harlem RBI jersey so that he would always remember us after that day. Then, we heard a few speeches, ate a scrumptious lunch and took a few photos.
My group was in the batting cages, which I thought was the best place for publicity, since it was enclosed and surrounded by a lot of photographers and it was right by the street. In my group, A DREAM student raised his hand in excitement to show Prince Harry how to bat on a tee. He showed him a proper batting stance, how to line up your knuckles and swing through the ball. After a few practice swings, Prince Harry began to put more effort and power into his hits. We were all surprised at how well he swung the bat! He did well for someone who never played baseball before!
All in all, this experience was a great one because I had the opportunity to teach youth the fundamentals of baseball and softball. I also got to build their confidence and taught them how to have fun with the game. What made this so cool was the fact that a Prince was here and that does not happen every day. It was a privilege to be a part of this great project. I would definitely participate in something like this again. Maybe next time, we can invite President Barack Obama?
Harlem RBI Grows with Us By Julissa Marte, Seventh Grade, Jaguars
I joined Harlem RBI’s TeamBuilders Middle School program in January. Since I am already in the seventh grade, I never had the chance to participate in REAL Kids, Harlem RBI’s elementary school program. I hear nothing but great things about students in REAL Kids, like how attentive, smart and cute they all are! My teammates also talk about their previous experiences in the program, and share all the things they learned and the fun times they had. Before this year, REAL Kids was only available in East Harlem. Now, even more youth can participate in REAL Kids, since the program has expanded to the South Bronx. This is the first time that Harlem RBI has offered a program in a neighborhood outside of East Harlem! This is an awesome step for Harlem RBI and the 1,500 kids they serve each year. Not only will more kids learn how to play baseball and softball, but they will also learn about the life lessons that Harlem RBI teaches, like how to succeed in school, develop healthy nutritional habits and be good teammates. With a South Bronx Field of Dreams yet to come, REAL Kids-South Bronx teams play at Macombs Dam Park, with Yankee Stadium as a backdrop.
Mott Haven, the neighborhood REAL Kids–South Bronx is in, was labeled the second worst New York City
PLAY
LEARN
GROW
neighborhood for a child to live in. I think it is a great idea for Harlem RBI to expand to this area because it means that youth in this neighborhood will have a safe space to do what kids do best: have fun. I am very excited about Harlem RBI expanding to new areas. This expansion means that the Harlem RBI family is growing more and more by the minute. And what I have learned is that we should value our family members no matter where they are from or where they have been. I want to stay a part of this family. One day, I will be able to work for Harlem RBI. I want to help kids the way the program has helped me, by giving me the confidence and determination to succeed in the classroom and on the field, whether it is in East Harlem, the South Bronx or the next Harlem RBI expansion site. Harlem RBI also helps kids discover who they are, what their passions are and how to achieve their goals. Expanding to new communities means that more children can experience this awesome program. More kids will get the chance to learn how to play baseball and softball, get good grades and discover their potential. The South Bronx is just the first step!
HARLEM RBI
100% Graduation for Harlem RBI Seniors in 2013
Can We Have Your Autographs?
BY Essence Torres, 11th Grade, Lady Royals I am a rising senior at Humanities Prep and a Lady Royal at Harlem RBI. Throughout my six years at Harlem RBI, I have attended four graduations. Each graduating class was unique in their own way, but this year’s class was special. Since they are just one year older than me, I felt a closer connection to them and had many opportunities to grow with them. Part of this growth is due to the Harlem RBI staff. They are dedicated to us. They create an environment where all of us, regardless of the grade we are in, can work together as a team to play, learn and grow. And on June 4, the staff’s hard work was on display, as all 39 members of the Class of 2013 graduated from high school. It was a perfect day for graduation. The sun was shining bright. There was a gentle breeze. Harlem RBI even provided sunglasses so the sun would not be in our eyes. Graduation began with a speech from Harlem RBI’s Executive Director Rich Berlin. He thanked everyone for coming and told us how important the graduation ceremony was. Then, a group of parents shared their gratitude to Harlem RBI for helping their kids achieve this milestone. Then, they recognized Program Coordinator Josh Van Kirk for his hard work. Later, Champagne McGrier and Eddie Rosario, two graduating seniors, sang a rendition of “The World’s Greatest” by R. Kelly. I was excited to see them and felt inspired by their voices. After the performance, various Harlem RBI alumni, participants and family members presented graduation certificates and gifts to the seniors. This was a nice touch, because it showed how Harlem RBI serves kids of all ages. Each year it hits me. I know that once a class graduates, I am one year closer to being in their seat and having my name added to the Harlem RBI Success Garden. Next year, I will graduate. I hope my class can inspire someone in REAL Kids, TeamBuilders or high school, just like the past classes have inspired me. Harlem RBI teaches us to play as a team, learn new things and use our skills to the best of our ability while we continue to grow into successful individuals. Thanks to the hard work of previous classes, I, along with my peers, know that all things are possible. The dedication that this community shows to youth helps me believe that I can accomplish anything.
Harlem RBI participants signed baseballs with messages about the impact the organization made on their lives both on and off the field. These baseballs were handed out to guests at the annual Bids for Kids gala on June 17. Read a few below: I learned that we should show integrity at Harlem RBI.
I love baseball because it makes you healthy.
I like reading because I get to gain more knowledge.
Janeya 12 years old, Lions
Arianna 8 years old, Pioneers
Jovonne 9 years old, Bulls
My team helps me to have fun and make friends.
Harlem RBI helps me be brave and confident in everything I do.
Harlem RBI helps me to better myself so I can help those around me.
Nyah 17 years old, Lady Royals
Selase 14 years old, Angels
Harlem RBI helps me to get better grades.
Harlem RBI shows me that I’m able to do things that I thought I couldn’t do.
Chayanne, 12 years old, Ravens
The best part about Harlem RBI is how much the staff cares about you. Reuben 12 years old, Pride
Justin Perez receives his certificate from younger brother, Jaret.
2
Pedro 12 years old, Eagles
Christopher 12 years old, Eagles
I am prepared for a job because of Harlem RBI.
I got accepted to Hunter College! Can’t wait for school!
I like reading because it’s a movie in my head.
Jeremy 16 years old, Monarchs
Gilbert 18 years old, Grays
July 9 years old, Bulls
FALL 2013
DREAM Scholars Were Meant to Fly! By Jolita Brettler, Fourth Grade, Jaguars We recently took our fourth grade state tests. During the week of testing, we watched a video put together by the parents and staff. There was lots of singing and even silly dancing. I laughed a lot! After the video, I felt encouraged. The teachers also painted their nails grey and red to match our testing shirts and the Harlem RBI and DREAM logo. The teachers did this all for the entire third, fourth and fifth grades. I felt so appreciated! On Tuesday, we had to go to the classroom early because we had the state test. That morning, we had a special breakfast of bagels and orange juice. We also received “Smart Water” and notes of encouragement. The notes had phrases like, “You can do it!” and “We believe in you!” Parents wrote us letters too, telling us not to give up because we worked so hard studying for these tests. The best letters came from other DREAM scholars, especially ones in younger
grades. They told us they believed in us and knew that we could do well! The newspapers said it would be the hardest test ever, which made me a little scared. I was very nervous while I was eating. Though I felt scared, I knew that I would do my best. I thought back to the letters that our parents, teachers and classmates wrote. Their kind words helped me calm down and relax. Then, my teacher Ms. Childs explained what the test was going to be like and it did not seem that hard. We had 70 minutes for multiple-choice questions. When Ms. Childs said the word “start,” I jumped to it. I finished the test quickly and checked my work three times. To me, that test felt easy! After the first day, I felt less nervous. I knew that doing my best would help me do well on the tests. I wanted to prove to the DREAM community that I am capable of greatness!
Signs created by the DREAM community and hung throughout the school hallways support the third, fourth and fifth grade scholars as they prepare for their state exams.
Never Too Early to Start Thinking About College BY Gialdri G. Gomez, Fourth Grade, Jaguars Did you know my DREAM Charter School fourth grade class went to Washington D.C. and Maryland to visit colleges? We went on tours and experienced other special things that you will read about. On Wednesday, June 12, we arrived at the University of Maryland, College Park campus. Our first stop was our dormitory for the weekend. We sat on the steps and admired how beautiful the campus was. There was green grass everywhere. Growing up in New York, you do not get a chance to see this type of natural landscape. After a while, our teachers called us to go to our dorm rooms. We had the opportunity to set up our room however we wanted. That part was fun because we got to set them up with our roommates just like we were real college students. Later, we went on a tour of campus. We looked at the classrooms, library and recreation centers. We also got to see a winter indoor stadium where you can play up to six sports!
DREAM fourth graders rub Testudo’s nose for good luck at the University of Maryland.
Publisher Harlem RBI and DREAM Charter School
Harlem RBI Report
Staff Writers Gabby Alvarado Jolita Brettler Paris Cabrera Gialdri C. Gomez Ondrae Jackson Nyah Jarvis Julissa Marte Jasmine Moreira Xavier Perez Naté Robinson Essence Torres
The next day, we got on the bus and went to Washington D.C. to explore the city. First, we stopped at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. We all got to take pictures of the famous statue. Then, we went to the Martin Luther King
Photos Patrick Kolts Xavier Perez Ellen Emerson White Matthew Ziegler Designer Danni Fisher Editorial Offices 333 East 100th Street New York, NY 10029 212.722.1608 WWW.HARLEMRBI.ORG
Jr. monument and read some of Martin Luther King’s famous quotes. My favorite quote was, “Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.” Later, we walked along the reflection pool towards the Lincoln Memorial. On the walk, we got to see baby ducklings in the pool! After visiting the memorials, we made our way to the Smithsonian Native American Museum and the Air and Space Museum to explore fun exhibits and eat lunch. After we ate, we went back to our dorms and reflected about our day on the dorm steps. Finally, we ended the day with fun nighttime games. The day was full of fun learning! On Friday, the last day of our trip, we headed over to Howard University, which was one of the first historical black colleges. We went on a fun scavenger hunt to learn about Howard University and the campus. We all worked in teams with cooperation and mindfulness to complete each step of the scavenger hunt. It was a unique way to learn more about the school and each other! In conclusion, I speak for the rest of the DREAM fourth grade scholars when I say, it was the best trip ever!
Submissions We encourage students and alumni of all ages to contribute to the Harlem RBI Report. Prospective authors should contact the Communications department prior to submitting manuscripts. Please write to the Harlem RBI and DREAM Communications team via email at communications@harlemrbi.org or call 212.722.7105.
3
HARLEM RBI
The BASE Braves the Rain and Completes the 2013 AIDS Walk By Xavier Perez, The BASE, Senior youth leader The BASE has participated in the AIDS Walk New York since 2011. Over the past three years, the team has raised more than $5,000 through various fundraising efforts such as bake sales and outreach to friends and Harlem RBI staff. This year, The BASE was determined to run another successful campaign for the 2013 AIDS Walk on May 19.
The weather was poor on the day of the AIDS Walk. It was raining hard, which was definitely not ideal for a 6.2-mile walk. Despite the conditions, The BASE’s team, which consisted of Harlem RBI participants, staff, volunteers and parents, still showed up. The team made it through with umbrellas, ponchos, garbage bags, raincoats and rain boots and crossed the finish line. Although wet and tired, they were happy to cross the Planning for the AIDS Walk began in finish line to raise awareness for this cause. November 2012 at The BASE’s Second Annual World AIDS Day event. There, the The BASE’s work in raising awareness for team held a bake sale to raise initial funds. AIDS-related issues is not finished. The team The BASE continued to plan and fundraise had an exciting 2013 AIDS Walk campaign for the AIDS Walk throughout 2012 and into and Youth Leaders have already begun to 2013. Youth Leaders participated in and plan for next year. The BASE will raise funds hosted several events to raise money for the throughout the rest of 2013, culminating in walk. Building on the success of previous the 2014 AIDS Walk next May. Youth Leaders years, the team wanted to try different ideas hope to raise more money, register more to raise money. The BASE made paper walkers and continue to spread awareness flowers for Valentine’s Day, sold pastellitos on HIV/AIDS within the East Harlem and piña coladas and held a social media community. campaign for donations. Through all of these efforts, The BASE raised $1,397.
Learn more about The BASE at Facebook.com/TheBASE.HRBI
The BASE’s AIDS Walk team endures wet conditions to walk 6.2 miles for AIDS/HIV awareness.
Monarch in the Morning, REAL Kids Coach in the Afternoon By Paris Cabrera, 11th Grade, Monarchs I joined Harlem RBI back when I was in the third grade. I never thought I would stay in this program. I thought baseball was fun, but I figured once I was old enough, I would just leave Harlem RBI. Yet, I am now in the 11th grade and still here. I fell in love with everything Harlem RBI had to offer. Not only did baseball evolve from a hobby to a passion, I also appreciated the help the organization gave me with my schoolwork. One thing that has remained constant throughout my time here is my respect for my coaches. Coaches have taught me how to play baseball. They have helped me develop skills to use not only on the field, but off as well. Most importantly, they have encouraged me to respect the game of baseball and share my passion with others. Last year, I had my first opportunity to
make an impact on youth in the same way my coaches had on me. I coached the Arenas of the REAL Kids Clemente League. It was a unique experience for me, since this was my first real job. I learned a lot about what it means to be a coach. For example, after our first loss, the team looked very sad. I could tell that the loss was hitting them hard. They felt like they let the coaches down. I knew that feeling. It was something I experienced after my first loss in REAL Kids. I could not let them continue feeling this way. “Hey guys, cheer up!” I said. “This is just one game. We are still proud of you! You guys really gave it your all. This is just one loss, it is not the end of the world!” I added. My words picked up their spirits. Losing made them a more humble and, ultimately, a
stronger team. For me, I finally understood what coaches had to go through every game. Coaching was not just about facilitating practice, setting a lineup or choosing pitchers. It was more than that. There is a whole psychological factor to coaching. As a coach, I needed to boost team morale. I needed to make sure players had fun. That way, they can do their best. This year, I coached again. I coached the Knights in the REAL Kids Clemente League. I wanted to build on my experiences from last year to become a better coach. I also wanted to make sure that my players had a fun summer. This job gives me a chance to be more responsible, and also an opportunity to develop skills that I know will be helpful to me as I finish high school and go to college.
Paris, once a REAL Kids participant, is now a REAL Kids coach in the summer.
THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM SPONSORS 18U BASEBALL BGC Partners Grays Sponsored by BGC Partners
12U BASEBALL EmblemHealth Eagles Sponsored by EmblemHeath
Cantor Fitzgerald Kings Sponsored by Cantor Fitzgerald
12U SOFTBALL Ariel Property Advisors Ravens Sponsored by Ariel Property Advisors
18U SOFTBALL McCord Lady Yanks Sponsored by Kathy Moskal McCord BakerHostetler Lady Royals Sponsored by BakerHostetler 16U BASEBALL Delta Air Lines Monarchs Sponsored by Delta Air Lines Samlyn Capital Pride Sponsored by Samlyn Capital, LLC 16U SOFTBALL KPMG Saints Sponsored by KPMG Harlem Shambles Angels Sponsored by Rebecca Kerr & Timothy Forrester 14U BASEBALL Highbridge Stars Sponsored by Highbridge Capital Management, LLC BCF Tigers Sponsored by Bulldogs Care Foundation 14U SOFTBALL Kensington Comets Sponsored by Kensington Publishing Sawhney Jaguars Sponsored by Margarita & Vik Sawhney
4
REAL KIDS SHARON ROBINSON LEAGUE The Samberg Family Belles Sponsored by Jeff & Debbie Samberg REAL KIDS JACKIE ROBINSON LEAGUE Big Paul’s ABCs Sponsored by Glenn & Susanna Hadden Bewtra Barons Sponsored by Neeraj Bewtra EC Crawfords Sponsored by Eric Childs
MKZS Aztecas Sponsored by Ken & Merideth Rosh
Sumeria Group Dodgers Sponsored by Sumeria Group
Crawfords Sponsored by Tom Lane
Cassidy Turley Coquis Sponsored by Cassidy Turley
Will & Trey Giants Sponsored by Thomas H. Patrick
Hahn Foundation Gigantes Sponsored by Philip J. Hahn Foundation
Thorne Bros. Marlins Sponsored by Nicholas & Nate Thorne
Knights Sponsored by Roberto & Allison Mignone
Starkey Leones Sponsored by Renee Reso Wilf NextGen Lobos Sponsored by The Wilf Family Foundation Bank of America Piratas Sponsored by Bank of America Sheehan Senadores Sponsored by Robert & Elizabeth Sheehan
All-Star Hornets Sponsored by Shiv Chakraborty
All-Stars Tainos Sponsored by The Social Operation, All-Star Committee and Liz Tippens
Schwenkel Knights Sponsored by Robert Schwenkel
DC Kids Tiburones Sponsored by Don & Christina Truesdale
Thunder and Lightning Sponsored by Chris & Kathryn Leonard
OpSec Security Tigres Sponsored by OpSec Security
Rector Park Pilots Sponsored by Josh Brodie
Locos Vaqueros Sponsored by Tom & Giselle Fraser
Go Yard LLC Keystones Sponsored by Go Yard LLC
HANK AARON ROOKIE LEAGUE E/A & Friends Athletics Sponsored by Elyse & Anthony Dreyer and Friends
REAL KIDS CLEMENTE LEAGUE Tiger Global Arenas Sponsored by Scott Shleifer & Tiger Global
Swinging Cardinals Sponsored by Caroline Dries and Friends
KPMG Mets Sponsored by KPMG
Pilots Sponsored by RGL Forensics
Arndt Diamondbacks Sponsored by Christopher & Patricia Arndt
SOUTH BRONX REAL KIDS CLEMENTE LEAGUE Arenas Sponsored by Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation
The Walsh Family Yankees Sponsored by The Walsh Family
Coquis Sponsored by Marc Saiontz
Mighty Pirates Sponsored by Anonymous
Senadores Sponsored by Becky Diamond & Jamie Stecher
Heroes Rockies Sponsored by Shanna Patterson & Ken Sundaresan ALUM TEAM Mariners Sponsored by Pete & Miriam Daneker
Tainos Sponsored by Adam Zotkow Vaqueros Sponsored by Marty Greenspan
SOUTH BRONX SHARON ROBINSON LEAGUE Blue Sox Sponsored by Stuart & Elise Fraser
SOUTH BRONX SATCHEL PAIGE LEAGUE Caimans Sponsored by Kensington Publishing
Red Wings Sponsored by Robert & Elizabeth Sheehan
Rams Sponsored by Stephanie Ruhle Hubbard
SOUTH BRONX REAL KIDS JACKIE ROBINSON LEAGUE ABCs Sponsored by Joe Wladyka
Cubs Sponsored by Frank’s Sport Shop
FALL 2013
Harlem RBI: Harlem RBI Helps D.C. Can’t Stop. Won’t Stop. Play, Learn and Grow by Ondrae Jackson, Harlem RBI Legend The year was 2008. That year, I became a Harlem RBI Legend, a title given to those who have graduated from the program. My journey as a Harlem RBI participant came to an end and what lay ahead of me was a future of the unknown. The organization, which had been an integral part of my life for so many years, was behind me and I was not sure what I was going to do. Who would support me through my academic journey? Who would guide me during times of personal struggle? What would life be like without Harlem RBI? What would happen to me as a Harlem RBI graduate? Unbeknownst to me, Harlem RBI was going to remain an important part of my life for years to come. When I was attending college, the Legends program did not exist, but I still had support from Harlem RBI staff. I could always call the office to get advice or simply catch up. I could also stop by just to be in a comfortable space. With the continued help and support of Harlem RBI staff, I received my Bachelor’s degree four years later in Health Sciences from Howard University with honors. Following graduation, I moved back to New York when Harlem RBI hired me as a full-time AmeriCorps Coaching Fellow in the TeamWorks program. This past winter, during a community service trip to Washington D.C., I connected with two Harlem RBI alumni, Jason Medina and Jose Agosto. Jason and Jose created Ward 7 Baseball, a program based on the Harlem RBI model. Their inspirational work helped me figure out what I wanted to do. I realized how much I loved working with youth. This passion, combined with the opportunity to help Jason and Jose build Ward 7 Baseball, confirmed my decision to go back to school in Washington D.C.
Ondrae Jackson, Harlem RBI Class of 2008, cleans up a field in Washington D.C. during a service trip with Harlem RBI’s high school program.
Starting in the fall, I will be a full-time graduate student at Howard University pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work. This will help me to not only live out my passion, but will also give me the opportunity to develop youth in the same way Harlem RBI developed me. Following this path will help me share the love Harlem RBI showed me to inner-city youth. Helping Ward 7 Baseball will allow me to stay close to a program that already embodies the Harlem RBI spirit. I know that Harlem RBI will be there to support me, and this family will remain in my heart forever. Life at Harlem RBI will never end and I will continue to play, learn and grow as long as I live.
By Nyah Jarvis, 11th Grade, Lady Royals When I first heard about the Washington D.C. trip, I was very eager to seize the opportunity. I knew it would be a great chance to not only help other inner-city youth, but also to visit a place I have never been to before. Harlem RBI staff said that in order to go, our group had to attend planning meetings, but I did not mind. I was willing to do whatever it took to go on the trip. Our first meeting was an icebreaker. We told each other why we wanted to attend the trip. In our second meeting we went over the itinerary for the trip. We discussed the dayto-day plan and got a sense of what we would be doing. The third and final meeting, though, was absolutely inspiring. In this meeting, we watched a clip from the Robin Hood Heroes Breakfast, where a Harlem RBI alumnus, Jason Medina, gave a speech about how his Harlem RBI experience motivated him in his current job as a police officer in Washington D.C. He opened up about his childhood years and how Harlem RBI inspired him to create a program in Washington D.C. called Ward 7 Baseball. He also explained the hardships and struggles that many youth face in Washington D.C. and how he believes that a program like Harlem RBI can create a better learning and living environment for youth. The speech put me to tears. This was a guy who grew up in the same neighborhood as me. He went through Harlem RBI just like me. Now, he’s a successful police officer in Washington D.C. I wanted to emulate his success. Officer Medina’s speech made me even more eager to go to Washington D.C. I wanted to have an impact on the lives of Ward 7’s youth, in the same way that Harlem RBI had an impact on people like Officer Medina and me. I was excited to share the things we learned at Harlem RBI with kids of Ward 7 Baseball, such as proper softball
mechanics, good study habits and how to have fun with baseball and softball. On the day we arrived in Washington D.C., we went straight to a place called Kenilworth Court to do community service. We met up with Ward 7 and collected trash together. While picking up trash, I saw empty bottles, diapers and discarded clothing. This made me sad to see so much garbage near the Ward 7 baseball field. But it also motivated me, because it was not fair that these kids had to play baseball in these conditions. Everyone deserves a beautiful field to play baseball or softball. After finishing up, we ran baseball and softball clinics for the Ward 7 participants. Many of the kids were passionate about playing baseball and softball, so we naturally bonded over our shared interest. Our group also got a chance to explore other areas of Washington D.C. We visited the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the White House and many delicious D.C. area restaurants. We also toured many universities and colleges, such as Georgetown University, University of Maryland and Howard University. After the visits, I decided that I want to attend Howard University after I graduate high school in June 2014. The Washington D.C. trip marked a lot of firsts for me. It was the first time I traveled to our nation’s capital. It was the first time I ran baseball and softball clinics for kids outside of East Harlem. It was also the first time I learned about what it is like to grow up in a neighborhood outside of New York. But best of all, the Washington D.C. trip taught me to appreciate the things that I have in life: my teammates, Harlem RBI and an opportunity to be successful in school. Some kids do not get this chance, and I’m fortunate that Harlem RBI provides that for me.
Lady Royal Nyah Jarvis helps to facilitate a clinic for youth at Ward 7 Baseball in Washington D.C.
Harlem RBI Board of Directors
DREAM Board of Trustees
Kenneth Rosh, Chair David S. Blitzer Todd Builione David Cohen Peter Daneker Katherine DeFoyd Stuart A. Fraser Maria Guadalupe-Sharp Sarah Haga Michele Joerg Bob Kerrey Chris Leonard Kirk McKeown Colbert Narcisse Jaimin Rangwalla Jeff Samberg Vik Sawhney Robert Sheehan David Sobotka Jamie B.W. Stecher Mark Teixeira Margaret Yates Thorne Don Truesdale Gregg Walker
Richard A. Berlin, Chair Ashish B. Doshi Michele Joerg Elizabeth Pawlson Andrés Satizábal Jonathan E. Schmerin Jacqueline Vallejo Eric Weingartner Claudia Zeldin
Harlem RBI Home Run Leadership Council Mark Teixeira, Chair Bill Bartholomay Michael Buckley Ken Burns Charlie Butler Tony Clark Robert Costas Gail Grimmett Daniel M. Healy Keith Hernandez Jeff Idelson Marc Jaffe, Chair Emeritus Roberto Mignone Omar Minaya Sharon Robinson Steve Salem John Scotti
Harlem RBI All-Star Committee Steve Arocho Andrew Aquino Stephen Bellwood Meghan Bracken Daniel Cohen Jared Cohen Rosanna Delia Elyse Dreyer Adam Fisher Nicole Foster Tom Fraser Joyce Fu David Kelley David Kirsch Scott Lefever Chad Martin Michael Moutenot Guy Potvin Perry Rahbar Alberto Reyes Mark Romanczuk Adam Rossol Andrés Satizábal Jake Sloane
Emily Stecher Stephen Swindal, Jr. Brett Tanzman Nicholas Thorne Brad Visokey Joseph Wladyka
5
HARLEM RBI
A Day in the Life of a Harlem RBI TeamBuilder BY Julissa Marte, Seventh Grade, Jaguars I attend P.S./I.S. 50, the school that houses Harlem RBI’s TeamBuilders Middle School program. As soon as I’m dismissed from school, I turn into a Harlem RBI Jaguar. First, I go buy myself a snack before attending my after-school program. Then, I walk up the ramp way to the P.S./I.S. 50 main entrance. I enter the hallway and walk toward the cafeteria. As I do this, other TeamBuilders and staff always greet me. Once I sign in, I sit at the Jaguars table where I catch up with my teammates. We talk about how our week is going, what we are learning in school and where we are going after program. Then, Program Coordinator Carolina leads us for daily announcements. With the other coaches, the Harlem RBI staff tells us what the schedule will be like for the day. Then, Maiesha calls the teams to line up one by one, “The Ravens! The Eagles! The Jaguars! The Tigers! The Comets! The Stars!” Once our team lines up, we walk up the stairs to Journalism Club, taught by Bianca. In Journalism, we write a blog for our team. We explore ideas that are relevant to current events. For example, we wrote a blog post about steroids in
Major League Baseball. We examined the issue and offered our opinions about how steroid use should be punished. This time is a great chance for us to learn more about each other. We share ideas and draw examples from our personal lives. Since we all grew up in East Harlem, there are a lot of similarities in our upbringing. These similarities bring the team together. Even though I am the newest member of the Jaguars, I often feel like I have known my teammates for much longer than four months.
After practice, I usually walk home with some of my teammates and we reflect on our day. We make small talk and learn more from one another off the field. My teammates, coaches and program
coordinators all play a huge role in my daily life. They inspire me to become a person that others look up to. And at the end of the day, I cannot think of better people to spend my time with.
After Journalism, Coach Meghan escorts us to study hall. Study hall is a time to do homework. During this time, my teammates and I always help each other. By doing this, we use one of the important Harlem RBI values: teamwork. If we ever need help with our homework, staff is always there to help us or to find us a tutor. Finally, after study hall, we head to the Field of Dreams for softball practice. We practice with our coaches: Daniel, Kate and Katie. In our group drills, we offer each other feedback and encouragement. By bringing all of our strengths together, we are diminishing our individual weaknesses. A day with the Jaguars is full of teamwork, diversity and fun.
Bids for Kids 2013: Raising My Game to Face My Fear By Gabby Alvarado, 12th Grade, Lady Yanks I watched the raindrops slide down the van windows on our way to Cipriani 42nd Street for Harlem RBI’s annual Bids for Kids gala. My heart pounded against my chest every time I thought about speaking in front of 850 people. “What was I thinking?” I asked myself. After countless rehearsals with other Harlem RBI Legends and positive reinforcement from the event coordinators, my mind and body were still not at ease. I began to ask myself, “How could Harlem RBI ask me, a quiet and shy girl, to give a speech that inspires others to support the organization?” I did not have an answer. Stepping out of the van, all the nervousness began to fade. We walked inside the beautiful Cipriani 42nd Street. I was in awe of the high ceilings and beautiful architecture. We walked to our table, and I saw my place card. A rush of courage surged through my veins. At that moment, I understood that this was a challenge life was presenting before me so that I could grow in confidence and strength. I reflected back to last year. I vaguely remembered the posters and pamphlets that advertised the annual Harlem RBI and DREAM Charter School gala, the organization’s biggest event of the year. Past seniors mentioned that the requirements were to give a speech, an idea that I openly recoiled from. I was never one to voluntarily give a speech for the simple fact that my heart would race and palms would sweat at the mere thought of it. For as long as I can remember, I embraced my introversion and hid within the crevices of my mind. Every time I watched others give speeches with precision and confidence, I longed to
6
have that same skill. I wanted my voice to entice a connection with an audience. As I snapped out of my daydream, I saw bright lights illuminating the entire room, waiters bustling to and fro and the nervous but excited smiles of my teammates staring back at me. I realized that as a Harlem RBI Legend it is my duty to help cultivate change by any means necessary, including stepping out of my comfort zone. When it was my turn to speak, I took the microphone from Gilbert Gonzalez, the Grays’ team captain. I prayed that I would not mess up my lines. My hands were shaking. But once I held the microphone up, a sudden, overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility hit me. This was it. This was the time to motivate the honored guests, especially David Gregory, moderator of NBC News Nightly News and Gary D. Cohn, American University alumnus (where I will attend school this year) and President and COO of Goldman Sachs & Co. It was my time to tell them that Harlem RBI is forever dedicated to instilling fundamental values in future leaders that will achieve excellence and change the world. “I was just a thirteen year old Raven...” I slowly began as the camera stared back at me. Everyone was waiting to hear my story. “...when I understood the importance of team. Our shortstop let the ball roll right between her legs. I was on third as I watched her unravel. But then, we all started to make mistakes. It was like her frustration had this domino effect that made the whole team fall apart. Right then I saw how connected we are, how we affect one another, and how that connection is
Gabby shares a story about teamwork as a middle school Raven at Harlem RBI’s annual Bids for Kids gala.
real both on and off the field. In the fall, I am going to American University, the alma mater of tonight’s honoree Gary Cohn. And even though I am leaving, I am taking with me the relationships I’ve made here at Harlem RBI. My name is Gabby Alvarado, and I’m a Harlem RBI Legend!” Once I finished, I heard a loud round of applause. I could not help but smile, as I had just faced my fear of public speaking and shared a personal story in front of 850 strangers. On the way home, I flipped through the Bids for Kids program on the Eastchester/ Dyre Avenue Bound 5-Train. My eyes were
drawn to the glistening smiles of Harlem RBI youth. Every smile reminded me of my first Harlem RBI game. I recalled stepping out onto the bright green grass, cheering with my teammates and hitting my first triple. My mind was mesmerized by the countless lives Harlem RBI had impacted. At that moment, I hoped my brief speech would have inspired someone to support Harlem RBI, creating more opportunities for youth to play, learn and grow. At the same time, I hope to inspire all those who are reading this to take chances and face fears. Life is not about what you could or should have done, but rather what you can and will do.
FALL 2013
Harlem RBI’s Field of Dreams: The Most Beautiful Field in New York City BY Naté Robinson, 10th Grade, Lady ROYALS I sat down with Baseball/Softball Operations Coordinator and Field of Dreams Manager Yeison Pimentel to discuss his role on the Harlem RBI Grounds Crew. The Field of Dreams is a foundation of Harlem RBI’s community, serving as the symbol of hope for the organization and the community. Yeison and his team take pride in ensuring the field is the most beautiful field in New York City. Naté Robinson: How long have you been with Harlem RBI? Yeison Pimentel: I came to Harlem RBI in 2003 when I was 16 years old. I was here as a player for two years. Then in 2004, I became a Coach in Training (CIT). Since then, I have held a number of different jobs at Harlem RBI in a part-time capacity. I became full-time about three years ago. In total, I’ve been here for nine years. NR: What made you decide to work in field maintenance? YP: One of the reasons is my love for the Field of Dreams and the history behind it. To a lot of people walking by, it is just a pretty field. But I understand the work that Harlem RBI had to put in to build and keep this field. So it’s my job, along with the grounds crew, to make sure we keep the field as beautiful as we can. NR: How long does it take to prepare the field for games? YP: It depends. On a dry day, it can take about 15-20 minutes. But in wet conditions, it can take
up to two hours. After it rains, we have to take out the mud and put in new dirt. I can guarantee one thing, though. If it rains on Friday night, the grounds crew will work as hard as possible to ensure there is a game at 9:00AM on Saturday morning. NR: What does it take to prepare and upkeep the field? YP: Manpower and dirty hands. This is a physically demanding job but my team and I love what we do. The team uses shovels and rakes to make sure the grass and dirt are in the best possible condition. The one other thing we need is water, tons of it. Water makes sure the dirt is moist enough for players to slide on and ensures that the grass grows. We also need a lot of eyes. The field is not large, but with different sets of eyes, we can make sure every inch of the field is in tip-top shape. The whole grounds crew can look at the field and make sure we are not missing any dead grass or puddles that might affect a baseball or softball game. NR: Does field maintenance change with the seasons? YP: Yes, absolutely. We close the field down in the winter after we fertilize it. As you would probably assume, it is tough to grow grass in the winter. In the spring, we put in the most work because of the fungus that grew the previous winter. We have to make sure the grass gets enough water to grow to get rid of that fungus. Then we have to keep watering the grass so that it continues to grow in the summer. NR: Sometimes I see red flags on the field. What are they for? YP: Red flags are a standard for field maintenance. It means that the area can be unsafe or not ready for play. We usually put them up when there is rain to let people know the field is closed. NR: I noticed there is a sprinkler system. Do you operate it manually or is it set to an automatic timer?
Once an abandoned lot, Harlem RBI’s Field of Dreams has become a symbol of the power and potential of the youth and community it serves.
YP: I set it up to get the proper watering. In the spring, I set it so that it waters the field three times a week. It increases in the summertime because of the heat, up to twice per day.
STAY CONNECTED LIKE US! facebook.com/HarlemRBI facebook.com/DREAMschoolNYC
Future journalist Naté Robinson interviews Baseball/ Softball Operations Coordinator Yeison Pimentel.
NR: Is there anything about the field that you would like to change or add? YP: The one thing I’d like to see on the field is a digital scoreboard. I think it can add to every kid’s experience playing on the Field of Dreams. NR: What is the toughest part about working in field maintenance? YP: I think the toughest part is explaining the potential damage someone can do to the field if they are not careful. For example, players can create excessive damage to any field if they play while it is wet. Even though the field may look dry, the potential damage that a player can create may end up taking three to four months to fix. NR: How can Harlem RBI kids help upkeep the field? YP: One thing I would like to see, and it is a dream of mine, is a player taking extra steps to ensure the field is in the best possible shape. My teammates and I did this in college. Once we were done with practice or games, we would clean up the field, the dugout and the batting cages to make sure they were ready to for the next day. I think it is possible to show youth to take pride in their field. This place is a home away from home for youth. I would love to have youth join us in making the Field of Dreams the best looking field in New York City.
Teamwork
BY Kameron Fortson, Sixth Grade, Eagles
FOLLOW US! @HarlemRBI @DREAMschoolNYC WATCH US! youtube.com/harlemrbi2
VISIT US! www.harlemrbi.org dreamschoolnyc.org dreamteam25.org 7
Harlem RBI, a 501(c)3 non profit organization, began in 1991 when a group of volunteers transformed an abandoned, garbage-strewn lot into two baseball diamonds for the youth of East Harlem. Since then, Harlem RBI has grown to serve more than 1,500 boys and girls, ages 5-22, with year-round academic, sports and enrichment programs. For the first time in its 22-year history of serving the community, Harlem RBI expanded its services outside of East Harlem in the summer of 2013 and launched the REAL Kids Program to the Mott Haven section of the South Bronx. Harlem RBI’s comprehensive approach to youth development replaces the barriers inner-city youth typically face with concrete opportunities to build the skills and confidence needed to graduate high school, matriculate to college and break the cycle of poverty. Since 2005, 97% of Harlem RBI seniors have graduated high school, 94% of seniors have been accepted into college and 99% of participants have avoided teen parenthood. In 2008, after 17 years of working in East Harlem and producing exceptional results, Harlem RBI opened DREAM Charter School. DREAM’s mission is to prepare students for high-performing high schools, colleges and beyond through a rigorous academic program that develops critical thinkers who demonstrate a love of learning, strong character, and a commitment to wellness and active citizenship. DREAM Charter School inspires all students to recognize their potential and realize their dreams. Today the school serves 350 students and will grow one grade each year until it reaches capacity at 450 students, grades K-8.
VINCE COLEMAN THANK YOU FOR YOUR 15 YEARS OF SERVICE TO HARLEM RBI.
WWW.HARLEMRBI.ORG WWW.DREAMCHARTERSCHOOL.ORG
LOOK INSIDE! THE NEWLY CROWNED PRINCE HARRY OF HARLEM FRONT PAGE
333 East 100th Street, New York, NY 10029
100% GRADUATION FOR HARLEM RBI SENIORS IN 2013 PAGE TWO NEVER TOO EARLY TO START THINKING ABOUT COLLEGE PAGE THREE MONARCH IN THE MORNING, REAL KIDS COACH IN THE AFTERNOON PAGE FOUR HARLEM RBI HELPS D.C PLAY, LEARN AND GROW PAGE FIVE BIDS FOR KIDS 2013: RAISING MY GAME TO FACE MY FEAR PAGE SIX HARLEM RBI’S FIELD OF DREAMS: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FIELD IN NEW YORK CITY PAGE SEVEN