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Dear Friends, Welcome to our Eighth Annual Celebration of Community Service Awards Banquet and Gala. Tonight, we recognize the contributions of those who selflessly devote their time and energy to improving and changing the lives of others. Tonight you will be introduced to a very distinguished group of people from all walks of life. And although they come from a variety of different backgrounds, they all share the same level of commitment to their communities. This year’s Trailblazer Award recipients are members of the Tuskegee Airmen Greater Philadelphia Chapter. They are: Bertram Levy, Roscoe Draper, Dr. Eugene J. Richardson Jr., Pierce T. Ramsey, William M. Cousins, James R. Williams, Major John L. Harrison, Henry L. Moore, and the late Luther H. Smith and Ben Calloway. The Tuskegee Airmen was the first African-American flying unit in United States military history. They risked their lives to fight for our freedom and serve their country. The 2010 Community Service Award honorees are: Michael Basher, Marsha Ellis, Paulette Blackson Royster, LaVerne McNear, Gregory Moses, Vincent Grant, Alice Payne, Patrol Officer Adrian Hospedale, and Capt. Daniel MacDonald III. We are honored to present this year’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award to Betty Harris of Betty Harris Homes, Inc.. Our honorees are leaders in their communities, neighborhoods and professions and they exemplify the spirit of community service all year long. I would also like to thank Brown’s Shop Rite, Crown Cork & Seal, PECO Energy, Keystone Mercy Health Plan, Laborer’s Local District Council of Philadelphia, Verizon, Sunoco, Community College of Philadelphia, Milliron & Associates, PA Amusement, Cement Masons, GMEREK & Associates, Health Partners and Richard Allen Preparatory School, for supporting this year’s Community Service Awards Banquet and Gala. This event would not be possible without them. Again, welcome to this momentous occasion and enjoy the evening!
Sincerely, Ronald G. Waters Member, PA House of Representatives 191st Legislative District Chairman, PA Legislative Black Caucus
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The Menu
The Salad Course
Romaine Lettuce with Roma Tomatoes, Shaved Parmesan Vinaigrette Dressing
Dinner EntrĂŠe
Chicken Marsala Creamy Seasoned Mashed Potatoes Accompanied by Fresh Broccoli Spears Warm Rolls and Sweet Cream Butter
Dessert
New York Style Cheesecake Drizzled with a Fresh Raspberry Coulis
Beverage
Water, Coffee, Tea, Iced Tea Available Upon Request
Musical Prelude
Programme
“Stroke of Midnight”
Mistress of Ceremonies
Lori Wilson NBC 10 Anchor
Entrance of the 2010 Honorees
(Please remain seated while the honorees are escorted to their seats) Welcome
The Honorable Ronald G. Waters State Representative, 191st Legislative District
Invocation
The Honorable Louise Williams-Bishop State Representative, 192nd Legislative District
The “Spoken Word”
Lyssen
Introduction of Keynote Speaker
The Honorable Ronald G. Waters
Keynote Address
The Honorable R. Seth Williams District Attorney, City of Philadelphia
Presentation to Keynote Speaker
Representative Waters
Award Presentation
Representative Waters Audrey Gill President, Community Friends Networking Together
Presentation of 2010 Community Service Awards Presentation of the Trailblazer Award The Tuskegee Airmen - Philadelphia Chapter Presentation of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Humanitarian Award Betty Harris, Betty Harris Homes, Inc. Presenation of Check Remarks
Representative Waters & Audrey Gill Representative Waters & Audrey Gill
Dinner is Served Entertainment Provided by “Stroke of Midnight” The Blessing
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Mistress of Ceremonies Lori Wilson
Lori Wilson joined the NBC 10 News Team on November 28, 2005, as a general assignment reporter, substitute anchor and a contributor to NBC 10’s lifestyle and entertainment show, “10!” During the relaunch of “10!” on May 23, 2006, it was announced that Wilson would be the official co-host of the show with Bill Henley. In September 2006, Wilson moved over to “10!” full-time, where she continues to co-host with Henley. Aside from assisting with developing exciting new segments for the show, Wilson can be seen every weekday during the 5PM news introducing the “Today On 10!” segment. Before joining NBC 10, Wilson worked from 2002 to 2005, as a morning anchor, weekend anchor, entertainment reporter and general assignment reporter at WGCL in Atlanta, Georgia. Prior to joining WGCL, Wilson was a news anchor and health reporter at KSLA in Shreveport, Louisiana. Wilson’s love for writing and storytelling is what led her to choose a career as a television news broadcaster. In 1997, she began an internship at WGCL (formerly WGNX), and shortly after starting her internship she landed her first television-broadcasting job at WCIA in Champaign, Illinois. A native of Columbus, Indiana, Wilson has a B.A. in Journalism from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). Aside from writing, working out and cooking, Wilson enjoys mentoring the next generation of journalists. Wilson resides in the Philadelphia area. For more information contact: Jo Anne Wilder Director, Press & Community Relations Phone: (610) 668-5793 FAX: (610) 668-7092 Email: joanne.wilder@nbcuni.com
Eva Blackwell NBC 10 Publicist Phone: (610) 668-5790 FAX: (610) 668-7059 Email: eva.blackwell@nbcuni.com
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Special Guest Lyssen
Poet, Philosopher, Lyrical Soultress
Lyssen is elected a Legendary Wizard of Words and powerful voice of modern day challenges. In addition to being a victorious poet, life philosopher, spirit mentor, and self awareness advocate, Lyssen has developed a worldwide audience that implores her translation of heavy day-to-day living into lifelong wisdom. Glowing with grace, elegance and style at all times, Lyssen continuously provides an amazing interpretation of self and world destruction, with a unique technique that launches solutions through her speech and memoir. Executing her calling through a variety of venues, she has marked diverse stages ranging from NBA pregame shows to spiritual organizational events. Taking her crafts to a whole other level, she has combined her corporate leadership expertise, philosophies, and lyrical essence to exposed corporate America to the power of poetry through local and national motivational presentations. Lyssen’s approach has encouraged several artists, executives, and communities to welcome and develop positive expressions of emotions and mind-sets; Her power of words is an example of the essential influence for music of all genres and the outlook of the world. Her work carries on with her radio show “Lyssen Worldwide” on Philadelphia’s WNWR 1540AM, which is designed to educate, motivate and recreate the artistic and constructive influence to global radio. Calling ALL POETS, SINGERS, DANCERS, STREET PREACHERS, DJ’S AND those that RAP”, along with those that just simply enjoy the ART before and after the beat, to become part of this world wide transformation and Lyssen - Poet, Philosopher, Lyrical Soultress
Keynote Speaker R. Seth Williams
District Attorney, City of Philadelphia
District Attorney R. Seth Williams, was sworn in on January 4, 2010, as Philadelphia’s first African-American district attorney. He is also the first African-American district attorney ever elected in the state of Pennsylvania. Seth Williams is a true Philadelphia success story. Given up by an unwed mother and placed in foster care, Seth was blessed to be adopted by a devoted and loving family. He grew up in a hard-working West Philadelphia neighborhood, the only child of Imelda Williams and the late Rufus O. Williams who emphasized the importance of community service his whole life. A proud Philadelphian, Seth’s long list of accomplishments started at a very young age. After graduating from Central High School in 1985, Seth attended Penn State University where he served as President of the Black Caucus and later as President of the Undergraduate Student Government, representing all 57,000 undergraduate students. From Penn State, Seth was on to law school at Georgetown University, where he graduated with distinction as a Public Interest Law Scholar in 1992. After graduation Seth’s dedication to public service brought him home to Philadelphia, where he joined the District Attorney’s Office. In the ten years he served as an Assistant District Attorney, Seth was repeatedly promoted, including his appointment as the Assistant Chief of the Municipal Court, where he supervised the 30 newest prosecutors. He also created and led the Repeat Offenders Unit with the goal of reducing the high percentage of crimes committed by repeat offenders. His extensive trial experience includes 37 jury trials, more than 1,500 bench trials and more than 2,500 felony preliminary hearings. In 2005 Seth was appointed Inspector General of the City of Philadelphia. As Inspector General, Seth was responsible for the investigation of all allegations of corruption, fraud, waste, abuse and employee misconduct among municipal workers and companies doing business with the city. Seth left the position of Inspector General in 2008 with praise from Mayor Michael Nutter for his groundbreaking work as the city’s municipal corruption watchdog. Seth went on to take a position as counsel at the Center City law firm of Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & Young. Seth continues to serve his community as an educator and volunteer. He is an adjunct professor at Neumann College in the Strategic Leadership Master’s Program and is an adjunct professor and Advisory Board member at Penn State Abington. Seth is also proud to serve his country as a Major in the Judge Advocate General Corps of the United States Army Reserve. Seth is also proud to serve on the boards of several community organizations, including the Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Overbrook Park Civic Association & Town Watch, St. Cyprian Catholic Church, the St. Martin de Porres Foundation and the West Philadelphia Y.M.C.A. Seth lives in West Philadelphia with his wife Sonita, and is the proud parent of three girls-Alyssia, Taylor and Hope.
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The Honorees
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Community Service Award Michael Basher
Michael Basher has been in the retail food industry for 33 years. The best part of his career has been at Brown’s Family ShopRite, where he’s been for the past ten years. Mike has held a variety of positions but has always loved the community involvement that comes from serving many thousands of people each week. Mike jumped at the opportunity when asked by Jeff Brown, President and CEO of Brown’s Super Stores to lead his Community Affairs Department. In this current position he coordinates over 3000 events per year with their human resource team. He is involved in the “Goods for Guns” program – a gun exchange initiative with the Philadelphia Police Department, works on an innovative program to hire ex-offenders and successfully bringing community, political, religious, social, business, school and neighborhood leaders together to solve diverse and complex problems. Mike is well known in Philadelphia for having the only supermarket “ShopRite” tractor trailer in the Southwest neighbor pride parade which hands food out of the back of the trailer. Speaking of tractor trailers of food, he works every year with the GPUAC in packing, donating and handing out over 1000 Thanksgiving dinners. He has also coordinated the feeding of thousands at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service event. Mike serves on several boards throughout the Philadelphia area to include. The Christian Street YMCA, ACANA -“African Cultural Alliance of North America and The Philadelphia Alliance. Mike works with UpLift Solutions, a 501c3 non-profit formed to assist governments, non-profits and the supermarket businesses in resolving “food desert” challenges in the United States. Mike has a few other loves in his life; his friends, family, a wife in which he feels he has been truly blessed with the sweetest, prettiest, most carrying, inspirational, friend, mother to his 3 daughters which are also following her example and also his church family at Berean Bible Chapel where he has served as Elder, Treasurer and now Assistant Pastor. Mike is extremely proud to serve his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the community in which he works and lives.
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Community Service Award
Paulette Blackson Royster
Paulette Blackson Royster is a native of Southwest Philadelphia. Noticing the absence of leadership in her community and wanting to improve the quality of education for children, Paulette gave of her time, knowledge, gifts and talents to bring a school that would develop leaders. Paulette led the charge in organizing the Southwest Leadership Academy Charter School, 7101 Paschall Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19142. For two years, Paulette served as executive director and principal. Sequentially, the school made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for 20082009; a great accomplishment for the students and school. Currently, Paulette serves as the Director of Development and Partnerships for the school. Paulette is a highly motivated individual with very high expectations. She worked as a Non-Teaching Assistant, teacher, facilitator, mentor, and building coach for the School District of Philadelphia. In 2004, Paulette retired from the School District of Philadelphia to work for Victory Schools, Inc., as an Academic Coach and a Curriculum Instruction Specialist. Paulette is a block Captain. She is also founder and president of Philadelphia Together Works (PTW), a non-profit community based organization creating a safe, enriched, and a powerfully positive community through neighborhood togetherness and youth development. Paulette coordinated and worked with youths, seniors, and others community service workers in the neighborhood to distribute the Globe Times, our neighborhood newspaper. She is involved with many community and civic organizations to ensure that all pertinent information is disseminated throughout the community. Paulette is working on Project Exposure; a project that is committed to exposing children to an array of career explorations that will broaden their horizons and change their view of the world. Paulette believes, “If you think it, than you can.� Her future goals include loving her first grandchild, Tobias Prince, establishing more leadership schools, community development and building partnerships and what ever she can to make the community a better place to live. Paulette is a graduate of West Philadelphia High School. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University and a Master of Education from Cheyney University. Paulette is very thankful to God for all of her Blessings.
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Community Service Award Marsha Ellis
Marsha Ellis was born in the City of Philadelphia. She is the only child born to Jesse F. (deceased) and Margaret L. Barlow-Spady. She received her education in the Philadelphia Catholic and Public Schools and the Bucks County Public Schools. She also is a graduate from Delaware Valley School for Medical Assistant. She has been employed with Best Buy for 11 years, starting out as a part time cashier. After transitioning into the Administrative role, she became involved in various organizations within Best Buy to promote diversity. When Best Buy rolled out the Wolf (Women in Leadership) program, Marsha seized the opportunity to get involved. She held a leadership role for her two-year commitment and introduced the women of Best Buy to several powerful women in leadership, including Charlotte Council, Deputy Commissioner of Philadelphia Police Department. This encouraged the women of Best Buy to have a voice and to use it. As a result of Marsha’s efforts more woman are now in roles that were once traditionally dominated by men. Marsha’s passion has always been to help others however she can. She has been instrumental in helping Best Buy to connect with the community they serve. With the support and assistance of her District Manager, Marsha was able to help Best Buy support several organizations, including Willow Grove Branch of NAACP Scholarship Banquet, Cradle of Hope, a transitional home for young mothers, which she is now a board member, Shadow Trax, non profit organization specializing in stop the violence in Philadelphia with the youth, Philadelphia Cares, where numerous families have been adopted over several holidays and school cleanup, Progressive Life Center supporting foster children, Abington Township Police Athletic League, and State Representative Ron Walters community endeavors. Marsha is also Best Buy’s Career day representative for Glen Mills School. She uses her passion for people to positively encourage the youth while providing them with Best Buy’s career opportunities. Marsha is a member of the Destiny Christian Church. She is the proud mother of three children; Nicole; Michele and James and three grandchildren, Calvin, Jasmine and Aliyah. Marsha plans for the future is to return to school and pursue a college degree in Human Resources, and continue the community service that she has such a passion for.
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Community Service Award Vincent Grant
In 1999 when Vincent “Casey” Grant’s son found a loaded weapon in his backyard – a gun later found to have been used in a nearby shooting in the Eastwick section of Southwest Philadelphia - Grant saw the need for change. With elderly citizens afraid to walk the streets due to corner drug dealing, and children unable to play safely on Eastwick streets, he called the 12th Police District for information on starting his own Town Watch group. Grant and four neighborhood volunteers met and decided to wear uniforms to look more professional and proudly proclaim who they were. The men felt they could reach more ground on bikes, going in places the police did not normally patrol. The 12th Police District donated the bikes and the Eastwick Bike Patrol was born. Since then, the organization has grown in leaps and bounds in numbers and effectiveness. The impact on the community was almost immediate. After the Bike units started patrolling, there was far less drug activity reported and fewer break-ins. Soon the military-type volunteer group was being asked to patrol outside of Eastwick and into the Kingsessing area of Southwest Philadelphia. They’ve done so, patrolling the streets from Kingsessing Recreation Center, 50th Street and Kingsessing Avenue over to Malcolm X Park at 52nd and Pine Streets, and making constant reports to the 12th Police District. Crime seems to move when these men and women appear dressed in black. Soon because of his Eastwick Bike Patrol, one of two such bike units in the city with the other being in the Northeast, Grant was being asked to speak to various communities about how to start similar patrols. For his effort, Grant, a 14-year employee of the Philadelphia Housing Authority, was honored with awards such as the Governor’s Crime Prevention Award, the Outstanding Service Award from Town Watch Integrated Services, the Service Award from the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, sponsored by State Rep. Ronald G. Waters, the Floyd Chapman Community Service Award from the 954 Garden Civic Association and the Global Youth Service Day Award from Helping Others, Inc. Grant is a 1978 graduate of Ben Franklin High School and a longtime block captain and committeeman in the Ward 40A, 45th Division under Ward Leader Ed Thornton. He has been married to Philadelphia Police Officer ww Grant for 14 years. The couple lives with their three children Avery, Andre and Abriea in the Eastwick section of the city.
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Community Service Award
Gregory Hassan Moses
Gregory Hassan Moses is a life-long resident of Philadelphia, and has resided in Southwest Philadelphia for more than thirty years. He began his professional career as a city investigator in 1977and served as a Philadelphia Deputy Sheriff, a Special Investigator, and later as Special Projects Administrator/Investigator in the Philadelphia City Controller’s Office while simultaneously serving as a Senior Psychiatric Technician. Greg attended the Philadelphia School system. He received a Bachelor’s of Science Information Technology degree from Peirce College in 2005 with many honors. While attending there he served as President of the colleges XAE-Alpa Iota Honor Society for two terms, and remains a lifelong member. He is a long time member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church at 50th & Woodland Avenue whose Pastor is Reverend Cedric H. Jones. There he serves as the leader of several youth ministries to include; Sunday School Superintendent (Juniors), Supervisor of Junior Ushers, and Supervisor of the West Philadelphia Youth Commission for Mt. Zion, Mr. Moses has served as a Ward 40B Democratic Committeeman, for more than twenty-five years, currently holding the position of Ward Chairman. He was also appointed as one the first Police Advisory Committee Members at the 12th District Police Station. In 1991 he founded the “Southwest Association for Involvement and Development,” Civic Association. In cooperation with the 12th Police District Greg has been instrumental in orchestrating programs that provide food to the needy, relief for home owners facing foreclosure and economic development projects. Greg has received numerous awards that span twenty-five years for his community and civic service. He is a Board Member of the Richard Allen Preparatory School, Director of the Southwest A.I.D. Civic Association and a Block Captain. Greg believes that we should always be a doer and not a dodger in our community, a helper and not a hinderer, and to work together for the betterment of all. He is the father of six wonderful children, three young ladies and three young men and the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren whom he loves dearly. He is currently assisting his nineteen year old daughter Monise in obtaining her Civil Engineering Degree at Widener University.
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Community Service Award LaVerne McNear
LaVerne McNear is the first woman and African-American vendor in Philadelphia. She has been called the “Queen of Vending” because of her more than 40-year history of vending. LaVerne started vending with just a dollar and a milk crate in the subway in the late 1960’s. The tape marks where her merchandise was displayed can still be seen. LaVerne possesses a very pleasant demeanor but is a woman of deep strength. This strength enabled her to persevere in the midst of cold weather, competition with other vendors, and her struggles with the City of Philadelphia. As a vendor, she had to fight to keep her location at 10th and Market Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. From her perspective, 10th and Market is more than just a location where she sells merchandise, it has been a personal landmark around which many of her life’s significant events have occurred including the upbringing of her son Mark, and the birth of her first grandchild, Markayla. In addition to these personal events, she has fed the homeless, listened to many troubled people, and even brought smiles to people from all walks of life all from this special location. She has also been mistreated and even arrested for fighting for her rights. People may see LaVerne as just another vendor on a corner, but she has a story which will soon be told as her book is a work in progress. She has experienced several struggles, but through it all she is still standing by the grace of God. LaVerne is a true survivor. She is also a giving person, often passing on the knowledge her experiences have taught through the years. LaVerne believes she is successful when others become successful with the help that she provides. She has always been gifted with her hands from sewing to crocheting. She has achieved several accomplishments through the years. Most notably, she began making flags for the late President General, Mr. Redmond Battles of the Marcus Garvey Headquarters in North Philadelphia. By 2008 LaVerne became the Official Flag Maker. Her flags have been sent all over from Washington, DC to Africa. She has been interviewed by Channel 6 news, by WURD and WHAT radio stations, the New Observer, the Black Star and the Philadelphia Weekly newspapers. LaVerne acknowledges the following people for helping in her success as a vendor: the late Cecil B. Moore, Lucien E. Blackwell, Georgie Woods, Milton Street, John Street and those who fought in the struggle to make vending what it is today. She also thanks State Representative Ronald G. Waters for this award. Most of all LaVerne gives all Honor and Glory to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
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Community Service Award Alice Payne
Alice Payne was born, raised and educated in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. As a young person, she was always involved in serving and making a difference in the community. As a high school upperclassman she was very active in her school’s volunteer efforts in teaching the less fortunate. She attended a finishing school in Chicago while living with her grandmother where she learned to work with people of all racial backgrounds which would later prove to be invaluable experience. She attended Antioch University and later received her Master’s degree from Cheney University. Alice married and moved into Yeadon borough and became the mother of three children. She worked as an effective educator for the Philadelphia School District. While living in Yeadon, Alice served her community as block captain and worked with people in the community as part of the Yeadon Civic Association. She also was the first African-American woman to be a school board administrator in Yeadon Borough. Even more notably, in 1973, Alice Payne founded an organization called the Optimistic Senior Citizens. She noticed that there were many older citizens with various skills and abilities who had no place to go to utilize these talents. She set out to solve this problem and fought through much opposition due to the racial climate in Yeadon during the 1970s. With the help of an Episcopal priest and several other ministers, Alice Payne went before the Yeadon borough court and was granted authorization to operate her organization from Borough Hall. The Optimistics grew in popularity and membership began to increase to the point of relocation. The organization moved to 936 Church Lane, desegregating this area of Yeadon. Alice Payne’s organization still operates at this location and consists of 73 older citizens rendering medical and educational services to the community. Now as an older citizen with music training, Alice Payne has developed programs to help enrich both the young and the old. She created the Piano Program which teaches seniors the basic skills they need to play the piano. She also established the Sister to Sister Program. This much needed program teaches etiquette, personal health and hygiene, appropriate dress and grooming, cooking, music, and foreign languages to girls ages 12-18 to prepare them for their future. In addition to actively serving these members of her community, Alice Payne is also a board member of the National Council of Negro Women and sits on the executive board of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in Yeadon and Darby, Pennsylvania.
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Community Service Award
CPT. Daniel P. MacDonald III
Captain Daniel P MacDonald III was appointed to the Philadelphia Police Department on February 24th, 1992. He began his career as a Patrol Officer in the 16th District. His other assignments included: Detective East Detective Division, Sergeant in the 12th District, Internal affairs North Central Detectives, East Detectives; As a Lieutenant in the 25th District and the Narcotics Field Unit. He was promoted to Captain in 2003 and was assigned as the Commanding Officer of the 12th District in September of 2003. Born and raised in Philadelphia, his educational accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from AMU in Management. He has successfully completed training through Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Drug Unit Commander’s Academy. He is also the graduate of numerous military schools. He is currently enrolled in a Masters Degree program in International Relations and is Scheduled to Attend the FBI National Academy later this year. Captain MacDonald has an innovative community policing focus that partners with and empowers the residents in Southwest Philadelphia to reduce crime and violence though nontraditional policing programs. Captain MacDonald has opened the Police Station to the residents of the community as more than a government building. In Partnership with Representative Ron Waters and other political figures the district has been used to hold job fairs, conduct community meetings, food drives, cloths drives, and Christmas Parties for the underprivileged. He has developed partnerships with businesses, schools, and members of the clergy within the community to deal with issues, crime, and emergencies, which have reduced crime every year since he took command and have improved the quality of life throughout the area. Captain MacDonald Volunteers hundreds of hours a year to speak at community events, Churches, schools, and for the first time by a police captain in Southwest Philadelphia, at the local Mosques. He promotes, encourages, and facilitates 12th District police officers in volunteering both their on and off duty time to mentoring children in the community and schools. In Partnership with Judge Dougherty he developed a juvenile community court that identifies at risk children and rather than turn them into offenders has them partnered with positive community role models providing community service. This program also provides the children and their parents with access to government programs and services to prevent them from becoming future offenders. In this coming year Captain MacDonald and Police officer Joe Young are rolling out a new police scouting program run out of the District with police officers volunteering their own time to mentor children in the community. Captain MacDonald is also a member of the United States Army Reserves where he was promoted to Lieutenant in 2009. He has served two tours in Iraq. In addition to leading soldiers in combat operations he trained of hundreds of Iraq police officers. He Developed and conducted a civil military operations training program for senior Police and Iraqi military Officers and wrote much of the Iraqi Army and national police CMO doctrine, which is now taught and used throughout the country. Captain Macdonald is the recipient of numerous Police, Civilian, and Military awards and citations.
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Community Service Award Adrian T. Hospedale
Police Officer Adrian T. Hospedale is a resident of the Overbrook section of Philadelphia. He has been employed as a Philadelphia Police Officer for 16 years in the 12th Police District. Adrian served as a Beat Officer for two years, walking through Southwest Philadelphia’s rough-and-tumble streets. Residents and shop owners credit him with restoring their faith in police and bringing peace to the area he patrols daily: Chester Avenue to Kingsessing Avenue, from 54th Street to 58th. His compassion, professionalism and dedication are that which makes the community a safer and vibrant place to live. Officer Hospedale has stated “All of my life, I just wanted to make a difference”. Officer Hospedale has a true passion for helping troubled youth and making an impact in their lives. He is the Co-Founder of the Choice Program, which mentors youth for a better future, and also serves as a mentor to youth at the Hardy Williams Charter School. Officer Hospedale has received the most prestigious award that a Philadelphia Police Officer could receive. He is the recipient of the 2009 George Fencl Award. He has also received other community service awards and accolades such as the Merit Award, official commendation from the Philadelphia Police Department, awarded by former Police Commissioner Sylvester Johnson, and the eighth Senatorial District Certificate of Recognition, awarded by Senator Anthony Hardy Williams. Other awards include the Youth mentoring from the Cornerstone Christian Academy and John P. Turner Middle School, to name to name a few. He is a graduate of Faith University and Seminary in Clinton Maryland, where he received his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Theology. He has been called to serve as Associate Pastor at Agape Christian Chapel, under the leadership of Pastor Melvin Floyd. He is anointed and gifted to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. He uses this gift to evangelize the lost and lead souls to Jesus Christ. He is surrounded by the love and support of family. He is the father of one son, Adrian Jr. (AJ); his mother, Audrey Hospedale, one brother, Ernest; one sister, Ernesta; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.
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TRAILBLAZER AWARD 17
The irmen Tuskegee A The Tuskegee Airmen were dedicated, determined young men who enlisted to become America’s first black military airmen, at a time when there were many people who thought that black men lacked intelligence, skill, courage and patriotism. They came from every section of the country, with large numbers coming from New York City, Washington, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia and Detroit. Each one possessed a strong personal desire to serve the United States of America at the best of his ability. Those who possessed the physical and mental qualifications were accepted as aviation cadets to be trained initially as single-engine pilots and later to be either twin-engine pilots, navigators or bombardiers. Most were college graduates or undergraduates. Others demonstrated their academic qualifications through comprehensive entrance examinations. No standards were lowered for the pilots or any of the others who trained in operations, meteorology, intelligence, engineering, medicine or any of the other officer fields. Enlisted members were trained to be aircraft and engine mechanics, armament specialists, radio repairmen, parachute riggers, control tower operators, policemen, administrative clerks and all of the other skills necessary to fully function as an Army Air Corps flying squadron or ground support unit. The black airmen who became single-engine or multi-engine pilots were trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field (TAAF) in Tuskegee Alabama. The first aviation cadet class began in July 1941 and completed training nine months later in March 1942. Thirteen started in the first class. Five successfully completed the training, one of them being Captain Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., a West Point Academy graduate. The other four were commissioned second lieutenants, and all five received Army Air Corps silver pilot wings. From 1941 through 1946, nine hundred and ninety-four pilots graduated at TAAF, receiving commissions and pilot wings. Black navigators, bombardiers and gunnery crews were trained at selected military bases elsewhere in the United States. Mechanics were trained at Chanute Air Base in Rantoul, Illinois until facilities were in place in 1942 at TAAF.
TRAILBLAZER AWARD
Four hundred and fifty of the pilots who were trained at TAAF served overseas in either the 99th Pursuit Squadron (later the 99th Fighter Squadron) or the 332nd Fighter Group. The 99th Fighter Squadron trained in and flew P-40 Warhawk aircraft in combat in North Africa, Sicily and Italy from April 1943 until July 1944 when they were transferred to the 332nd Fighter Group in the 15th Air Force. The outstanding record of black airmen in World War II was accomplished by men whose names will forever live in hallowed memory. Each one accepted the challenge, proudly displayed his skill and determination while suppressing internal rage from humiliation and indignation caused by frequent experiences of racism and bigotry, at home and overseas. These airmen fought two wars - one against a military force overseas and the other against racism at home and abroad. The airmen who did not go overseas and trained at Selfridge Field, Michigan as bomber crew in the 477th Medium Bombardment Group experienced a great deal of racism. These highly trained military officers were treated as “trainees” and denied access to the base officers’ club, an act contradictory to Army regulations. There was a rather heated reaction and the Group was transferred to Godman Field, Kentucky. The unfair treatment and hostility continued at Godman Field and in early 1945, the group was transferred to Freeman Field, Indiana where the hostilities finally reached a climax. When black officers tried to enter the Freeman Field Officers’ Club, against direct orders for them to stay out, one hundred and three officers were arrested, charged with insubordination and ordered to face court martial. The court martial proceedings were quickly dropped against one hundred of the officers; two officers eventually had their charges dropped and one officer, Lt. Roger “Bill” Terry, was convicted. Fifty years later, on August 12, 1995, at the Tuskegee Airmen National Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, fifteen of the original one hundred and three officers that were arrested received official notification that their military records had been purged of any reference to the Freeman Field incident. Also, Mr. Terry’s court martial conviction had been reversed and his military record cleared. The remaining officers received instructions for clearing their records. After the war in Europe ended in 1945, black airmen returned to the United States and faced continued racism and bigotry despite their outstanding war record. Tuskegee Army Air Field continued to train new airmen until 1946, with women entering the program in several support fields. Large numbers of black airmen elected to remain in the service but because of segregation their assignments were limited to the 332nd Fighter Group or the 477th Composite Group, and later to the 332nd Fighter Wing at Lockbourne Air Base, Ohio. Opportunities for advancement and promotion were very limited and this affected morale. Nevertheless, black airmen continued to perform superbly. In 1949, pilots from the 332nd Fighter Group took first place in the Air Force National Fighter Gunnery Meet at Las Vegas Air Force Base, Nevada. During this period, many white units were undermanned and needed qualified people but were unable to get the experienced black personnel because of the segregation policy. The newly formed U.S. Air Force initiated plans to integrate its units as early as 1947. In 1948, President Harry Truman enacted Executive Order Number 9981 which directed equality of treatment and opportunity in all of the United States Armed Forces. This order, in time, led to the end of racial segregation in the military forces. This was also the first step toward racial integration in the United States of America. The positive experience, the outstanding record of accomplishment and the superb behavior of black airmen during World War II, and after, were important factors in the initiation of the historic social change to achieve racial equality in America.
These were the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II. They accepted the challenge!!
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TRAILBLAZER AWARD
The Tuskegee Airmen with the Aircraft They Flew in World War II, the P-51D William M. Cousins Henry L. Moore Roscoe Draper Pierce T. Ramsey
Major John L. Harrison Dr. Eugene J. Richardson, Jr. Bertram Levy James R. Williams Luther H. Smith, Posthumously
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In LovingMemory Captain Luther H. Smith Luther H. Smith Jr., 89, who flew 133 missions in Europe as a Tuskegee Airman before being captured near the end of World War II, entered eternal rest on December 9, 2009 Capt. Smith, of Villanova, survived the war to have a long career as an aerospace engineer for General Electric Co. His death was attributed to complications from an infection. “My personal good fortune took a turn, on Friday, Oct. 13, 1944,” he wrote in 2001. That day, the engine of his P-51 Mustang caught fire, and he bailed out over Yugoslavia. German soldiers pulled his mangled body from a tree. Days after then-Lt. Smith was captured, an SS officer stood over his hospital bed and asked him, “You volunteer to fight for a country that lynched your people. Why?” Before he was liberated in May 1945, he said, he was often asked by the Germans why, as a black man, he was fighting for the United States. “He would become indignant and respond that he was proud to serve his country,” his son, Gordon, said. Growing up in Des Moines, Iowa, Capt. Smith’s heroes were the military pilots who delivered the mail in open cockpit planes. He wanted to join their ranks, but there were no black military pilots. World War II gave him his opportunity. In 1942 he joined a squadron of black Army Air Force pilots training at a segregated base in Tuskegee, Ala. From January 1944 until his capture, he flew missions in fighter planes, and was credited with destroying two enemy aircraft in aerial combat and 10 aircraft in ground strafing missions. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross; an Air Medal with six Oak Leaf Clusters; a Purple Heart; the Prisoner of War Medal: and the Congressional Gold Medal among other honors. He weighed 70 pounds when he was liberated, and spent two years in military hospitals in the United States before being discharged as a captain in 1947. He underwent numerous operations on his right leg and had to wear an orthopedic lift in his shoe. “He must have been in discomfort, but he was stoic and never, ever complained,” his son said.
TRAILBLAZER AWARD
“Dad never thought he did anything special. Ninety percent of what I know about his war experiences, I’ve learned in the last 10 years,” Gordon Smith said. In 1995, Capt. Smith accompanied President Bill Clinton to Europe with six other veterans for the 50th anniversary marking the end of World War II. He served on the Architect-Engineer Evaluation Jury to select the design for the National World War II Memorial in Washington, which was dedicated in 2004. That year, Capt. Smith headed the 60th anniversary celebration of the Tuskegee Airmen’s greatest achievement - escorting American bombers on 200 missions in Europe without a loss of a single bomber to enemy fighters. He and two other veterans were featured in the 2006 documentary On Freedom’s Wings: Bound for Glory, the Legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum in Media. “Luther convinced me in 2004 that the museum needed to produce a documentary on the Tuskegee Airmen,” said Media Mayor Bob McMahon, one of the museum’s founders. Capt. Smith often spoke to school groups about his war experiences, McMahon said. Capt. Smith grew up with eight siblings. When he was 13, he and his brother Howard found $5 in a field. Though it was the height of the Depression, he persuaded his brother to spend the money on their first plane ride. From then on, he regularly walked the five miles to the airport, where he did odd jobs for the chance to be with pilots and occasionally fly with them. He studied engineering at the University of Iowa, then enrolled in the Civilian Pilot Training Course, a program to train pilots in case of a national emergency. The emergency came with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. After the war, Capt. Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Iowa in 1950. That year, he married Lois Gordon. The couple moved to Schenectady, N.Y., when he took a position with GE. In Schenectady, he chaired the local chapter of the NAACP. In the late 1950s, Capt. Smith transferred to GE’s aerospace division in Philadelphia. In the years until his retirement in 1988, he was involved in projects for the Air Force, the Navy Submarine Command, and NASA. He published numerous papers and was awarded two patents. While at GE he earned a master’s degree in engineering from Pennsylvania State University. From 1975 to 1995, Capt. Smith was division chairman for the Society of Automotive Engineers Aerospace International. He and his wife traveled to society meetings around the country and in Canada and Australia. He served on the board of Delaware County Community College and was former vice chairman of the Radnor Township school board. In addition to his wife and son, Gordon, Capt. Smith is survived by a daughter, Deborah; three sisters; and a brother. By Sally A. Downey Inquirer Staff Writer
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Rev. Dr., Martin Luther King Jr.
Humanitarian Award Betty Harris
Betty Harris, is a sensitive, loving and caring person. She opens her home (Betty Harris Homes Inc.), not only to the community children, but also to abused and neglected children. She has been a foster parent in cooperation with DHS, the Spanish Speaking Organization and Bethanna for more than 15 years. Betty has always had a vision of opening a youth home. This dream derives from her unconditional love for children. It is written, “ without a vision, the people will perish”. And Betty has a big vision for young girls. She envisions a girl’s home that will provide young ladies with options and alternatives and be built on love, stability and protection. Betty believes that as we move towards the future, we must not forget that these children will be the care takers of tomorrow. Betty is a member of the First Corinthian Baptist Church and possesses a strong faith that the Lord will help her carry out the vision He has given her. In her efforts to keep children off the streets and productive, Betty formed, “Betty’s Little Angels”, a praise dance group of children ages 5-13 and during the summer of 2009 Betty provided day camp for 45 children. Betty also serves as a volunteer with State Representative Ronald Waters office, and Deputy Helen Hellon-Divers, and many other organizations that provide support to young people, seniors and those that are homeless. Betty has received numerous Community Service Awards from the Spanish Speaking Organization, DHS, Bethanna, the 12th District Police Station, the Southwest Community, Commonwealth of Pa, Legislative Black Caucus, Los Hermanos, and the Philadelphia Eagles. And in 2008-9, Betty was awarded Foster Mother of the Year and was the recipient of the 2008 Philadelphia Eagles Community Quarterback Award. In 2009, Betty was invited to the Eagles Training Camp as a result of her tireless work in the community. She was presented with a signed football and jersey from Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid! Betty is married and has three children, seven step-children, two adopted children, and is a foster parent to more than one hundred children. Her goals are to inspire and encourage children to realize that they can achieve anything…to “reach for the stars”! Her moral, strength and integrity shines through the care she shows for all children.
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The Honorable Ronald G. Waters COMMUNITY FRIENDS NETWORKING TOGETHER & Creating A Village Congratulate the Tuskegee Airmen-Philadelphia Chapter 2010 Trailblazer Award Recipients William M. Cousins Henry L. Moore Roscoe Draper Pierce T. Ramsey Maj. John L. Harrison Dr. Eugene J. Richardson, Jr. Bertram Levy James R. Williams Luther H. Smith, Posthumously
Betty Harris 2010 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Humanitarian Award Recipient
and the 2010 Community Service Award Honorees Michael Basher Capt. Daniel MacDonald Paulette Blackson Royster LaVerne McNear Marsha Ellis Gregory Moses Vincent Grant Alice Payne Patrol Officer Adrian Hospedale
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In Loving Memory HARDY WILLIAMS April 14, 1931 January 7, 2010 For more than forty years, as a lawyer, state representative, state senator, and nationally known leader, Hardy Williams was a vociferous advocate for the rights of all people. The dramatic and straight talking father of independent political movement in Philadelphia, Hardy Williams was not afraid to challenge “politics as usual� by breaking party and racial lines and standing up for what he thought was right.
I n Loving Memory
Representative Waters salutes our honorees who have entered into eternal rest
Your legacy of service lives on in our hearts, in the community and in the many lives of the people you impacted during your time with us. Thomas Gary
2009 Community Service Honoree
Glenda Christopher 2007 Community Service Honoree George Eldridge
2006 Community Service Honoree
Catherine Terrell
2005 Community Service Honoree
Johnny Sample
2002 Trailblazer Award Recipient
Benjamin Powell
2002 Community Service Honoree
Patricia “Pat� Walls 2002 Community Service Honoree
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2010 Corporate Sponsors
Our heartfelt appreciation to the corporate sponsors whose generous support helped to make this event possible.
Brown’s Shop-Rite Crown Cork & Seal Laborer’s District Council of Philadelphia PECO Energy Company Keystone Mercy Health Plan Verizon Community College of Philadelphia Milliron & Associates PA Amusement Cement Masons GMEREK & Associates Richard Allen Preparatory School Sunoco Health Partners Thank you for your participation.
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Acknowledgements
A sincere appreciation to the following individuals for their assistance and support in making this event a success:
Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition Community Friends Networking Together Creating A Village Renaissance Philadelphia Hotel Philip Levin Company Leaping Lion Photography Lyssen, Poet, Philosopher, Lyrical Soultress Stroke of Midnight Murell Limousine Company Stephane Jean-Baptiste, CEO & Creative Director, Nouveau Concepts Dauphin County Vo-Technical School-Horticultural Department
The Honorable Louise Williams-Bishop The Honorable Vanessa Brown and Staff Betty Lee Audrey Gill David Adams Germaine Brown Denise Green Elaine Carter Helen Hellon-Divers Tyrone “Cakes” Sims John Walker John “Yah Yah” Phillips Tyrone Sims, Phillip Simmons Jr. William Smallwood, Evan Jones
Toni Smiley Toni Tolliver Audrey Harris Germaine Brown Peggy Paumer Nakia Goodman Leslie Lewis Margaret Holden Sheila Johnson JoAnn January Sonia Church Isis S. Harris Constance Hawkins Rajan Muhammad.
I also want to extend my sincerest appreciation to the staff of the 191st Legislative District and the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus Shana Walker, Legislative Assistant Helen Walker, Legislative Assistant Valerie Smallwood, Legislative Assistant Florence “Penny” McDonald, Office Manager Akeela Roland, Legislative Assistant, PA Legislative Black Caucus April James, Chief of Staff
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The PA Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) Congratulates the 2010 Community Service Award Honorees
The PLBC is comprised of the 21 African-American House and Senate members elected to the Pennsylvania General Assembly. The purpose of the PLBC is to advance the interests of AfricanAmericans, and other minorities, and create public policy that ensures justice for all Pennsylvanians.
The Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition (G.P.U.A.C.)
Proudly Supports the
2010
Celebration of Community Service Awards Banquet To all of the honorees, we thank you for serving and meeting the needs of your community. Our Mission
GPUAC unites government, business, neighborhoods, and individual initiative to improve the quality of life in the region, build wealth in urban communities, and solve emerging issues. GPUAC 1207 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 717-215-851-0110 Sharmain Matlock-Turner, President/CEO
Community Friends Networking Together Organization Executive Board Audrey Gill JoAnn January Sheila Johnson Marie Thompson David Adams
President Vice President Secretary Financial Secretary Treasurer
Advisory Board Rajan Muhammad Tamara Staley
Members Sonia Church Isis S. Harris Constance Hawkins
Our Mission Community Friends Networking Together Organization is an outreach organization dedicated to embracing, supporting and developing multi-faceted endeavors that unify, strengthen and improve our immediate and surrounding communities.
Congratulations to The Tuskegee Airmen – Philadelphia Chapter 2010 Trailblazer Award Recipient William M. Cousins Henry L. Moore Roscoe Draper Pierce T. Ramsey Major John L. Harrison Dr. Eugene J. Richardson, Jr. Bertram Levy James R. Williams Luther H. Smith, Posthumously
Betty Harris, Betty Harris Homes, Inc 2010 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Humanitarian Award
and the 2010 Community Service Award Honorees Michael Basher Capt. Daniel MacDonald, III Paulette Blackson Royster LaVerne McNear Marsha Ellis Gregory Moses Vincent Grant Alice Payne Patrol Officer Adrian Hospedale
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Gmerek
Government Relations, Inc.
The Locust Court Building, 212 Locust Street Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA 1710 Tel: (717) 234-8525 Q Fax: (717) 234-8812 Q www.ggrgov.com
We are pleased to support the 191st Legislative District – Community Service Awards Dinner and Banquet We would also like to extend our congratulations to all the award recipients for their significant contributions.
The Locust Court Building, 212 Locust Street Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA 1710 Locust Court QBuilding 212 Locust Street SuiteQ600 • Harrisburg, PA 17101 Tel: (717)The 234-8525 Fax: •(717) 234-8812 www.ggrgov.com
Tel: (717) 234-8525 • Fax: (717) 234-8812 www.ggrgov.com
A college degree A good job A promotion A new skill It’s possible
Congratulations! State Representative Ronald G. Waters and the
Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition
Congratulates Justin Watson, Southwest Leadership Academy Orin Stevens, Southwest Leadership Academy Kristen Mack, Southwest Leadership Academy For Their
Academic Excellence
State Representative Ronald G. Waters The Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition Community Friends Networking Together and Creating A Village Salute the Accomplishments Of the Tuskegee Airmen Greater Philadelphia Chapter William M. Cousins Roscoe Draper Major John L. Harrison Bertram Levy, Henry L. Moore Pierce T. Ramsey Dr. Eugene J. Richardson, Jr. James R. Williams Luther H. Smith, Posthumously Thank you for your service and sacrifice
Congratulations to The Greater Philadelphia Chapter
Tuskegee Airmen
on receiving the191st Legislative District Community Service - Trailblazer Award.
Proud Sponsor
MILLIRON ASSOCIATES Government Relations • Legislative Law Since 1979
200 North Third Street • Suite 1500 Fulton Bank Building • Harrisburg, PA 17101
Phone: 717-232-5322 www.millironassociates.com
Congratulations & Best Wishes to
Gregory H. Moses On receiving the 2010 191st Legislative District Community Service Award. We thank you for your more then (25) years of hard work on behalf of the community.
We all Love You, Pray for your health, & Prosperity! Honorable Anna C. Verna, Council President, Anne Brown, Leader Ward 40B & Members, James Harris, Assist. Director Southwest A.I.D. and members of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church and Ezekiel Baptist Church
Congratulations To our Brother Gregory H. Moses Giving thanks always for all things unto God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Gregory we are so proud of you and your many years of community service. We would like to quote you with your favorite saying “If I can help somebody than my living will not be in vain� May God always be given the glory. We love you love you now and always. Your Brother and Sisters Clifford J. Moses Delores Moses-Augustus Shirley Moses-Davis Cynthia Moses Linda Moses-Nelson
The Trustees, Staff Staff&& Students TheBoard Board of of Trustees, Students of of
The Richard Allen Preparatory Charter School The Richard Allen Preparatory Charter School Congratulate Our Board Member
Congratulate Our Board Member
Gregory H. Moses on receiving Gregory H.theMoses
191st District Community Service Award. We’re proud of you the work Onand Receiving theyou have done! Theresa Ann Johnson, President-Protem District Community Service Award 191st Lawrence F. Jones, Jr., M Ed, CEO
We’re proud of you and the work you have done! Theresa Ann Johnson, President-Protem Lawrence F. Jones, Jr., M Ed, CEO
My Office can Help With... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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State Representative Ronald G. Waters 191st Legislative District 6027 Ludlow Street, Unit A, Philadelphia, PA 19139 Phone: 215-748-6712 Fax: 215-748-1687 328 Irvis Office Building-PO Box 202191 Harrisburg, PA 17120-2191 Phone: 717-772-9850 Fax: 717-783-1516