November 2021

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ Newark Issue 2021

$2.95

thepositivecommunity.com

15TH ANNUAL NEWARK ISSUE

NEWARK MAYOR RAS. J. BARAKA: IT’S HIS SHOW

Positive Change ON COVID 19: “10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE”

ESSEX COUNTY HONORS LEGENDS TRIBUTE: NEWARK MUNICIPAL COUNCIL PRESIDENT MILDRED CRUMP RETIRES

Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. Esq. Serving God and His Community

They said it couldn’t be done.

We didn’t listen.

We’ve done hard things before, we do them all the time.

For most cancer patients, the usual options are surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.

So we’re working on ways to get the immune system to deploy billions of cancer-killing cells and help more patients survive.

When some people experienced mysterious COVID symptoms and had nowhere to go, our team created the first Center for Post-COVID Care.

It wasn’t that long ago we had to open up your whole chest for heart surgery. Now we’re pioneering a bypass that goes through a few tiny incisions. With this surgery, we can get you back on your feet in weeks instead of months.

So if anyone ever tells you there’s no other way—don’t listen.

Photo Courtesy of the City of Newark

T

he year 2014 feels like a lifetime ago. President Barack Obama was in office and Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” played regularly on every radio station. Americans showed cautious concern about the Ebola virus as it bubbled a continent away. Meanwhile, we mourned the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner at the hands of police officers. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Ras J. Baraka became Mayor of Newark in 2014 and inherited a city at a crossroads with a $93 million budget deficit and the highest crime rate in nearly fifteen years.

Many viewed Newark as another Detroit— a city that had lost touch with its remarkable potential.

Seven years later, Newark is a different place partly due to a double-digit drop in the crime rate and efforts to increase the city’s economic outlook with corporations like Audible, Panasonic, Mars, and others now calling Newark home. And while many changes can come at a cost, like over-policing and gentrification, protecting the people of Newark from both, ranks high on Baraka’s list of priorities.

I asked how he worked to include the citizens of Newark in his efforts to raise the city’s economy. “It’s difficult. We put systems in place like inclusionary zoning ordinances that require affordability. We create an equitable growth commission to set guardrails for different things we do in the city. We try By to create opportunities for Black and brown businesses . . .” he explained. “We’re trying to build wealth here, raise the standard of living, and give people the opportunity to have access to resources at the same time as the city is developing.”

At a time when the subject of policing has been a polarizing one, Baraka’s efforts to find balanced solutions stand out. A staunch advocate for a Citizen’s Complaint Review Board with subpoena power, he also supports the city’s police force. “I’m from Newark. I know the people in these communities, people’s grandmothers and mothers. They want to feel safe in their own neighborhoods. The notion of we’re not going to have a police department just doesn’t work here.” He continued, “You Cover and Content page photos by JMartin Productions have to fight crime, so we do that in a two-fold way. We do it by supporting the police department, but also by creating initiatives—community led initiatives that help

NEWARK ISSUE 2021

CONTENTS 32

38

Mayor Show It’sNewark Mayor Baraka’s Ras J. Baraka

His Show S It’s EShane CPaul NeilT I O N S

Money................................... 22 Health ................................... 43 Ras J. Baraka became Mayor of Newark

Education 52 in 2014............................. and inherited a city at a crossroads with a $93 million budget58 Culture.................................

ON THE COVER:

Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. is dedicated to serving God and his community G TPC_Nov_2021_WF2.indd 14

&also inside Publisher’s Desk............................. 8 Guest Editorial ................................... 12 Guest Editorial ................................... 14 Fitness Doctor ................................. 46 The Last Word .................................. 72 4

The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

deficit and the highest crime rate in nearly

Features

fifteen years. Many viewed Newark as another Detroit—a city that had lost touch with its remarkable potential.

Larry Crump Honors His Mother.................................... 10 Essex County Exec Honors Community Leaders............ 16 Rev. Dr. Soaries on Retirement and Investing........... 22 Are NJ Democrats Listening Now?........................... 24 Sistahs in Business in Newark ................................. 26 Weiss Joins Newark Alliance.................................. 30 GCBNJ See Success................................................. 35 Civil Rights Leaders Birthdays Celebrated............. 36 UMBA Takes Social Action........................................ 37 Newark Beth Israel’s Alma Beatty Health Fair............. 43 Amerigroup: Brick City’s Newest Resident.................... 51 Kean University President Installed................................. 52 Berkeley College Commemorates 90th Anniversary...... 54 Juneteenth Freedom Cruise............................................ 58 Pillar College Hosts Pastors Appreciation Event........... 60 Eric Adams Fundraiser................................................ 65 11/22/21 5:43 PM

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he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com.

Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor

Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor

Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor

Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor

Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor

Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor

Cross and Crown Christian Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor

Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor Agape Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis, President BCT Partners, Newark, NJ Dr. Randal Pinkett, CEO Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor

Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Jr., Pastor Ebenezer Baptist Church, Orange, NJ Rev. H. William Rutherford III, Pastor Elizabeth, NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Patricia Perkins-Auguste Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor

First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist Church of Kenilworth, NJ Rev. Nathaniel Bullock Jr., Pastor

Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor

First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor

Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor

First Baptist of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor

Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor

First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor

Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor

First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor

Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor

First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor

Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor

General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, President

Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor

Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor

Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Senior Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mother A.M.E. Zion Church Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Malcolm J. Byrd, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rev. Danté R. Quick, PhD Hackensack, NJ

Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Timothy E. Jones, Pastor

Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor

Masjid Muhammad, Newark, NJ

Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, East Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., New Rochelle, NY Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Danielle L. Brown, Senior Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. John Baptist Church, Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor

St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor

Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor

St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor

Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor

St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor

Mt. Zion B.C., Westwood, NJ Rev. Bernard Glee, Pastor

St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor

New Beginnings Agape Christian Center, Freehold, NJ Rev. Dr. Andre McGuire, Pastor

St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor

New Garden State Jurisdiction COGIC NJ Bishop William Cahoon New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Pastor

Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor

New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor

Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor

New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor

Harlem Congregations for New Reid Temple COGIC Community Improvement (HCCI) East Orange, NJ Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., President & CEO Bishop William Cahoon Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ North Selton AME Church, Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Pastor Piscataway, NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor

St. Paul Baptist Church, Montclair, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. Paul Baptist Church, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C. Williams, Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the only one that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

ADRIAN COUNCIL PUBLISHER’S DESK

Emancipation Day 2022: Positive Change, Freedom, and the Future

T

he Positive Community Corporation (TPC), a 100% African American-owned media company has remained steadfast to the calling to share “Good News from the Church and the Community.” Year after year, “through many dangers, toils and snares” TPC has delivered results for both the reader and the advertiser by embracing the value and ideals of quality service.

For 21 years, we have been on the front lines of Positive Change in the communities we serve, showcasing the very best in Black life and culture in America. Our freedom journey continues!

Boldly and without reservation, The Positive Community proclaims 2022: A Year of Positive Change! This is an open invitation to all forward-thinkers and the people of God to join us in the great, community-building enterprise of our times.

Now, more than ever, each of us must become advocates for positive change—in our homes, the classroom, the corporations, houses of worship; positive change in our music and in matters of health, public safety, our businesses, finances, public/private institutions and in the arts.

Saving Our Own Community

A year of Positive Change begins on January 1, 2022 with TPC’s Great American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet at the Robert Treat Hotel, Newark NJ. On that day we will honor individuals and organizations who reflect the ideals of community life and American freedom. Our honorees from the NY/NJ region represent the best and brightest in diverse servant leadership roles that are ever committed to peace, world progress and the good of all—Positive Change!

If we the people are to move forward then we must always remember and never forget January 1st as one of the most important dates on the American calendar, especially for African Americans. On that very day in 1863, freedom came to over 3.5 million of our ancestors held in bondage in the Confederate South; 200,000 Negro troops were mobilized to fight alongside the Union Army. With the implementation of President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, the Civil War transitioned from being a war to save the Union into a war to end slavery; a war that cost over 600,000 American lives. And yes, we do owe a debt of gratitude to descendants of those in the Union Army who sacrificed their lives on the battlefields on behalf of American freedom!

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

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In between the traditional church Watch Night services on December 31, and the Juneteenth Holiday, there’s New Year’s Day/Emancipation Day! The Great Emancipation Day observance affords us yet another opportunity to remember and honor the many scarifies of our torch-bearing forefathers and to celebrate a future of enormous potential and endless possibilities; to celebrate our own freedom on our own terms. The theme of this year’s Emancipation Day Awards Banquet: Saving Our Own Community.

A Seat at the Table

Positive Change speaks to the soul; to all of that which is great and good in each of us. Positive Change is a personal choice.

After all, true success, prosperity, health and happiness of future generations, generations yet unborn, will greatly depend upon the quality of our thinking—today We must nurture the ability and the will to articulate and embrace the ideals of love, unselfish service; collective and individual sacrifice for positive change and freedom—now!

On Saturday, January 1, all roads lead to Newark, NJ! It’s the “Function at the Junction” on New Year’s Day—“Freedom Day!” Plenty of good food, entertainment, enlightenment and fellowship. This is an appeal for investment into the survival of our own indigenous community-based media and the Black Press. Buy a ticket ($125.00 per person) or purchase a table for 10 ($1000.00); bring a friend. Reserve your seat at freedom’s table today! Visit our website thepositivecommunity.com to view clips from Emancipation Day 2020.

Throughout 2022, The Positive Community, with the support of corporate advertising and sponsorship, will host a series of special events, intergenerational entertainment activities, conferences and meaningful initiatives that will highlight accomplishments while addressing the needs of the people. Can we count on your support of this noble and righteous cause?

Indeed, the progress of our children and the integrity and dignity of our African American culture, values and traditions—our collective soul—mean everything! Let us now begin to heal; to transform the culture, secure the future, inspire hope and expand our outlook! . . . because a positive community is everybody’s business.

It really pays to care!

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Join

for the

THE GREAT AMERICAN EMANCIPATION DAY AWARDS Saving Our Own Community

A celebration of freedom and progress with music, Bishop Johnny Ray Youngblood good food and fellowship Pastor Mt. Pisgah BC, Brooklyn, NY

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1, 2022 2PM–6PM

Dr. Benjamin Chavis

President & CEO National Newspaper Publishers Association

Newark Kim Ambassador Suzan Debi Mayor Ras J. Johnson Cook Jackson Nesbitt Good Former US Ambassador Hal Jackson's Talented Teens Int. Friends of NJ Legacy Foundation Baraka (Juneteenth)

Grand Ballroom Robert Treat Hotel 50 Park Pl, Newark, NJ 07102 Tickets: $125.00 Per Person: Table of 10 $1000.00

FOR TICKETS CALL 973-233-9200 Proof of Vaccination Required Attire: “Classic Black”

Hon. Mildred C. Crump, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and C. Lawrence Crump Esq.

MILDRED C. CRUMP

20 Years a Councilwoman and so much more . . .

By C. Lawrence Crump, Councilman-At-Large, Newark, New Jersey

I

t is truly a bittersweet moment that I write this article as Councilman-At-Large for the City of Newark, completing my mother’s term as Councilwoman-At-Large. I cried the day she was elected in June of 1994, and I cried the day the City Clerk read her resignation letter. I cried in 1994 because I knew what she had been through to get elected.

Her husband (my father) had died a little more than a year before. I saw the anguish on her face throughout that year, but I also saw her strength and perseverance as she campaigned and won. I cried when her resignation letter was read because I know of the sacrifices, blood, sweat, and tears she went through as an elected public servant for almost twenty years. Council President Mildred C. Crump is not only my mother, but also one of my role models.

Over fifty years ago, my parents moved to Newark and instantly fell in love with the city and its amazing people.

They bought a house and reared a family. They advocated for better schools, safer streets, and stronger communities.

Newark was and is an amazing place to live and work. A longtime community activist, she has been a consummate and consistent advocate for women, children, senior citizens, the disabled, working families, and those in need.

On July 1, 1994, Mildred C. Crump was sworn in as the first African American councilwoman in the history of the city of Newark. On July 1, 2006, she created history once again when she was elected as the first female president of the Newark Municipal Council.

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

For almost 20 years, my mother would say she had the privilege of having the best job in the world. She loved serving the residents of this great city. She would always tell the residents she worked for them, and truly meant it.

The Council President often put her health and well-being second to helping her constituents, and that is why she never considered herself a politician, but a public servant.

She always worked with integrity, remained transparent, and had an open-door policy. Her public service has inspired generations of women and young people to be involved in the electoral process.

Council President Mildred C. Crump travelled extensively, both nationally and internationally, making sure women had a seat and voice at the table. She is also affectionately known as “Momma Africa” for the work she has done for the African Diaspora both in here and in Africa, particularly Nigeria and Ghana.

She loved working with Mayor Ras J. Baraka and her council colleagues to improve the lives of our senior citizens, children, and all of the people who make this city great. I could literally write a book on all of her accomplishments and the people that she helped.

The City of Newark is a better place today because of her leadership. She is the epitome of a servant leader and, while she may no longer be our council president, rest assured she is not gone. You will see her again, sooner than you think. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

Prayer Breakfast honorees

First Lady Linda Carlton and Bishop Rudy Carlton

Erica Seaman and Rev. Louise Rountree

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka

City of Newark

Interfaith Prayer Breakfast

R

Rev. Dr. Lakeesha Walrond

ev. Louise Rountree of the Mayor’s Office for Clergy Affairs hosted the 8th annual Newark Interfaith Alliance Prayer Breakfast at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark. Rev. Dr. Lakeesha Walrond, president of New York Theological Seminary and associate pastor of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, delivered a passionate keynote address. Rev. Lorraine Stancil-Lawson and Mayor Hon. Ras J. Baraka were also in attendance.

Over 450 clergy leaders attended the event to pay tribute to the work and selfless ministry of recently retired Newark Municipal Council President Hon. Mildred C. Crump for her many years of devoted service to her beloved city. —TPC Staff

Rev. Dr. E.T, Byrd and First Lady Byrd

WellCare team www.thepositivecommunity.com

Velma and Lawrence Crump, Esq. and Mildred Crump Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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REV. CONRAD B. TILLARD, SR. GUEST EDITORIAL

Rev. Conrad B. Tillard, Sr. is Senior Minister of Flatbush Tompkins Congregational Church Brooklyn, NY.

A Cautionary Tale, The Bible Tells Us So My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives.”—Proverbs 1:10-18. KJV

I

wish this message would be drilled into the heads of young Black boys in Harlem, Newark, Bedford Stuyvesant, East Orange, and other cities in the tri-state area and throughout the nation. Our youth are getting a different message in shows like Power and BMF (Black Mafia Family).

I got to know former Harlem drug kingpin Albert “Alpo” Martinez and I ministered to him. His death recently caused me to recall my interactions with him. I did not know Alpo well, but I had several meetings with him in the past year and we talked. My message to him was simple: “You’ve served your time, your debt to society; but the community needs to see contrition, humility, and a transformed man, demonstrably different and truly remorseful for the pain, hurt, and misery your past actions have caused.” He always listened respectfully, but I consistently got the sense that he saw it differently. He had done what he had to do in his life and he had to stand firmly on the belief that for him, he was still Alpo, and still a man.

I wish he could have internalized the messages of Proverbs in his childhood or even as a middle-aged man After 25 years in prison, he took responsibility for fourteen murders, including the murder of his closest friend and associate, Richard Porter. He turned state’s evidence against his associate and trigger-man, Wayne “Silk” Perry, who sits in a supermax prison serving a life sentence without any possibility of parole, based on Martinez’ testimony. Some say Perry has become a changed man—spiritual and known as “Brother Nkosi.”

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One night having dinner in Harlem, a friend of Alpo’s approached me and asked if he could bring Alpo over to meet me and take a picture with him. I was conflicted at the very least. I was reluctant and uncomfortable. He had a reputation of murder and treachery. I knew his associate, Wayne “Silk” Perry. We both attended Woodrow Wilson Senior HS in Washington, DC in the early 80s. I know many of Perry’s friends and family from Washington, DC and others who did business with him in the late 80s and early 90s. Alpo and I talked about those ironic connections in our initial, awkward introduction and interaction.

I realized that in that moment, I had a duty to this brother, Alpo, not to negate his humanity—not to see him as a drug dealer, murderer, or snitch, but a child of God who was entitled to hear the Good News. The Gospel is a powerful bulwark, and it is for everyone. Jesus, nailed to the cross at Calvary, ministered to two murders, even as he shared their fate. One asked for forgiveness and He reassured the man he would be in glory with Him that same day. I’m not sure what was in Alpo Martinez’s heart. He did acknowledge faith and his upbringing in the Catholic Church. Perhaps he repented and truly accepted the Lord as his Savior and friend. Let’s pray he did.

I never suffered at the hands of Alpo Martinez, so I can’t judge Richard Porter’s sister, Pat Porter, for reportedly celebrating Alpo’s demise. I also get the anger of those he betrayed, and obviously, the killers had no compassion in their hearts for him, but ministers must minister to those who have lost their way.

Finally, that’s why every Black boy should learn and memorize Proverbs 1:10–18 by rote as a cautionary tale: the fruits of wrong-doing will lead to the fate of Mr. Martinez and too many others; the Bible says it plainly.

Alpo, did say to me, that at only 25 years old and a drug kingpin on the streets of Harlem and Chocolate City when he was arrested in 1991, he “never thought 30 years later the community would lionize and celebrate” his exploits. Perhaps his ignominious death can have a greater impact upon the psyche of Black people in our community—especially young, Black men—to turn us away from sinful and criminal lives, than the celebrated exploits of his ultimately tragic life did. www.thepositivecommunity.com

CHRIS T. PERNELL MD, MPH, FACPM GUEST EDITORIAL

Chris T. Pernell, MD, MPH, FACPM, is Chief Strategic Integration and Health Equity Officer at University Hospital, Newark, NJ.

Getting to Higher Ground

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e will forever define 2020 as the year a novel coronavirus set fire to the globe. Nearly two years later, COVID-19 is still raging—though in recent weeks the national case average plateaued somewhat—there is a mixed picture emerging across different regions of the country. As of mid-November, average new coronavirus cases are hovering around 80,000, about 46,000 Americans are hospitalized, and approximately 59% of the population is fully vaccinated.

In New Jersey, we have seen similar trends. New cases are still above 1,000 but down from nearly 3,000 in early September. Current hospitalizations in our state have dipped below 800 and more than 5.9 million New Jerseyans are fully vaccinated.

While these are welcomed milestones, we cannot afford to celebrate prematurely but rather, we must persist and even advance at a quicker pace. The Delta variant remains poised to destroy life and wreak havoc and recent trends can be reversed during the fall and winter months as more of us retreat indoors and family holidays approach. Over the past two weeks, 21 states have seen a 10% plus surge in daily cases, including New York and Pennsylvania. Bottom-line, how long we stay ahead of the virus and whether or when we’re knocked off course again depends on how well we stick to a multi-layered mitigation strategy and our fundamental understanding of being in this fight together.

Our children need us the most right now. With the FDA and CDC’s early November decision to authorize the Pfizer vaccine for the 5–11 age group, 28 million children are now eligible for the vaccine. For 14 consecutive weeks, the number of cases of children with COVID-19 has been above 100,000. Any child who gets vaccinated will need a vaccine confident adult to execute on that action. Yet 30% of US adults remain unvaccinated.

Polling data from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) suggests that the gap among Black, Latinx, and white vaccination rates may be narrowing with at least 70% in all three groups reporting having received at least one

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

dose in the October report. This happened because of a focus on equity and acknowledging how racism operates to infect every facet of American life. While many understand the more than 750,000 American lives lost are unprecedented, it’s clear more must be done to remove access barriers and to encourage those who lack vaccine confidence and question the integrity of the science and public institutions in general. A hidden toll of COVID-19 is the fact that more than 140,000 children lost a primary or secondary caregiver and Indigenous, Black, and brown children were among the worst impacted.

Pandemics are not novel, but what determines how any society fares is its level of preparedness, baseline fissures, and inequities that marginalize certain groups and how well communities are equipped to endure, fight back, and overcome. While the American story of this crisis is still being written, there are salient lessons and interim wins that should be amplified and built upon to achieve enduring success. We dare not risk the alternative.

Our greatest power doesn’t rest in individuals, but in the whole. It’s collective power. Community power.

People power. And, exercising this power requires all of us to do what benefits the masses, keeps all of us safe, and allows us to get to higher ground. This battle is uphill because it is not only about taming a pandemic, but it’s also about digging up the deepest roots that threaten our collective well-being and change. The time to act is now. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Photo courtesy of Essex County Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. (third from right) dedicates a bronze plaque honoring the late Calvin West, the first Black Councilman at Large in Newark. (L-R) Essex County Commissioner President Wayne Richardson, Deputy Chief of Staff William Payne, Assemblyman Ralph Caputo, former Major League Baseball Executive Leonard Coleman, former Governor James McGreevey, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of the Berger Organization Miles Berger, and former Freeholder President Joseph Parlavecchio.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo Honors Four Essex County Community Leaders ESSEX COUNTY/TPC STAFF long Essex County Way, at the Essex County Government Complex in Newark, four bronze plaques were dedicated by Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo on October 6th. The honorees include late John M. Alati, the late Wynona Moore Lipman, the late Casto Maldonado and the late Calvin D. West.

John Alati was a former government official and co-owner of LaGuardia Entertainment. His plaque begins with a quote from playwright George Bernard Shaw: “I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.” It continues: “John M. Alati brought joy, John M. Alati laughter and a convivial spirit to generations of Essex County residents and beyond.”

Atla produced more than 200 performances each year, including the Annual Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series. John launched and supported the careers of countless musicians, bands and entertainers.

John was active in government and politics, serving in a variety of roles in Essex County and as Chairman of the Irvington Democratic Committee. While he enjoyed

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

serving as an elected official, John took great pride in working behind the scenes to help others, mentoring many young politicians. Proud of his Italian heritage, he worked diligently to promote Italian American culture and history. As UNICO National President, he joined Italian American organizations and the Government of Italy on issues of common interest, elevating the status of UNICO and Italian Americans nationwide.

“Thank you, Joe DiVincenzo, for this wonderful memorial. It was wonderful to hear how much John was loved and respected,” said Linda-Gail Alati, John Alati’s wife.

“I knew John for over 55 years. He was a great friend.

He had the tireless ability to get the best out of people,” former Freeholder President Joseph Parlavecchio said.

The plaque for Lipman begins with her own quote: “If you really want to stand out from the crowd and be recognized by society, then it is the quality of contribution which you make to others that counts.” It continues: “Evelyn Wynona Moore Lipman was the first African American woman to serve as a NJ State Senator.

Wynona Moore Lipman Her election was a milestone event that shattered the glass www.thepositivecommunity.com

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo

Essex County Legends Way, Newark, New Jersey.

ceiling and paved the way for African American and Latina women to view themselves as public servants.”

Senator Lipman’s reputation as a “Steel Magnolia” pointed to her ability to get legislation passed while maintaining her courteous demeanor. Her tenacity allowed over 145 bills to be signed into law, with many of them improving the lives and interests of women, children, families, small businesses, and minorities.

Notable were the Prevention of Domestic Violence Acts of 1981 and 1991, at that time some of the toughest domestic violence laws in the country. She heralded legislation supporting family leave, pay equity and child support enforcement, which served as the foundation for current laws. At Essex County College where she was a teacher, she used her legislative interests to help women, minorities and small businesses gain business contracts.

At the time of her death in 1999, her 27 years in the State Senate made her its most tenured member. Senator Lipman’s pioneering achievements and commitment to the residents of New Jersey are her legacy.

“When you first meet someone, you don’t know their life will have historical implications, but Senator Lipman was that person. She was never afraid to be the first one out on an issue and was never afraid of any opposition.

I can tell you how honored she would have been today,” said Alma Savaria, an attorney who served as the Executive Director of the Commission on Sex Discrimination in the Statutes while Lipman was the Commission’s Chairperson.

“Senator Wynona Lipman was a trailblazer, and I am in awe of how intimately tied into her endeavors without ever meeting her,” NJ State Senator and Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz said about her legislative agenda being very close to Lipman’s and how they both represent the same district. “She was a bridge builder upon whose shoulders many of us stand on today,” she added.

Casto Maldonado was the President and CEO of FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development, Inc. The plaque for Casto Maldonado begins with a quote from baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente: “If you have a chance to accomplish something that www.thepositivecommunity.com

will make things better for people coming behind you, and you don't do that, you are wasting your time on this earth.” It continues: “Casto Maldonado enjoyed a successful career at Prudential, where he strengthened their volunteerism program, Casto Maldonado created a minority purchasing program and engaged in urban and community development initiatives. He carried his interest of helping people to the non-profit sector and, in 1967, was part of a grassroots movement to create FOCUS. This community-minded non-profit organization’s original mission was to provide education, food and job training to Newark’s growing Puerto Rican population.”

He always remained active with FOCUS, serving at various times as the agency’s Executive Director, Board Member, President & CEO and consultant. Because of his efforts, FOCUS grew and evolved into a major safety net providing a wide range of programs and services to assist all residents from youth to senior citizens. Casto also recognized Latinos needed a greater voice in politics and government and he helped to organize Latin communities in various cities. He encouraged younger generations to get involved in the political process and his leadership in this area was recognized at the Federal and State levels. His legacy rests in the many lives he touched and the new leaders he cultivated.

“Mr. County Executive, we are inspired by your idea to honor Mr. Maldonado. It takes a great leader to recognize other leaders and the honor being presented today will make us work with the community even harder than before,” said, Dr. Francisco Dillon, Chairman of the FOCUS Board of Trustees.

“I want to thank the County Executive for honoring someone who is very special to me. My first job after college was working for FOCUS with Casto Maldonado Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Essex County Martin Luther King, Jr. Justice Building and Statue Dedication in Newark on June 17, 2021

Congressman Donald M. Payne Plaza dedicated 2009

as my boss. For the Latino community, Casto represented the American Dream,” said Newark Councilman Anibal Ramos, who also served as Director of Citizen Services.

The plaque for C a l v i n D . We s t begins with a quote from Baseball Hall of Famer Jackie Robinson: “A life is not important except for the impact it has on other lives.” It continues: “In 1966, Calvin West Calvin West became the first African American to be elected as an Essex County At-Large Newark City Council member. Although slight of stature, West was recognized as a Democratic political giant throughout the State for close to 70 years. Dignified, dapper and always engaging, he was a legendary figure.” A product of Newark Public Schools, his heart was always with the people of his beloved city, beginning in 1954 when he founded the Central Ward Young Democrats. The point person for every Newark Mayor and NJ Governor, West mentored and nourished generations of Democratic political figures. Elected as a member of the Addonizio slate when he won his Council seat, he flourished through all administrations, smoothly bringing people together. Calvin had broad experience, including as a reporter for the Newark Evening News, and other New Jersey Afro-American newspapers, and as a member of the U.S. Army.

Former Major League Baseball National League President Leonard Coleman said, “Calvin West treated everyone like family, and everyone sought his counsel.

His contribution was great and he’s much deserving of this honor.” Miles Berger, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of the Berger Organization, commented about the different facets of West’s life–as a loving husband, as someone devoted to his family, as someone who advised

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

NJ governors, mayors and politicians.

“John Alati, Wynona Lipman, Casto Maldonado and Calvin West each dedicated their lives to helping others, improving their community and putting the needs of others before their own. They each impacted the lives of many,” Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. said. “They are deserving of being remembered as Essex County legends and having their names at our government complex will remind people of their contributions,” he added.

Named “Legends Way” in 2008, when the juror’s parking garage was opened, the former 13th Avenue southern side of the Essex County Hall of Records features bronze plaques recognizing New Jerseyans who have made significant contributions to Essex County including: • Major League Baseball Hall of Fame players–Yogi Berra, Larry Doby and Monte Irvin • Pearl Beatty—first Freeholder President under the current form of county government • Kenneth A. Gibson—the first African American mayor of Newark • Lebby Jones—member of the Board of Freeholders and Irvington Township Council • Trish Morris-Yamba—Executive Director of The Newark Day Center and the Fresh Air Fund • Ramon Rivera, who was the founder and former executive director of La Casa de Don Pedro • Monsignor William Lindor, founder and director of New Community Corporation • Philip Roth—author and Newark native • Balozi Harvey—Director of the Essex County Office of Cultural Diversity and Affirmative Action and the Essex County Economic Development Corporation • Dr. Leon Smith—an infectious disease specialist • L aw re n c e “ L o n n i e ” W r i g h t — a t w o - s p o r t professional athlete and Director of Minority and Underrepresented Student Recruitment at UMDNJ • John J. Clancy—who served as the first Director of the Essex County Division of Youth Services www.thepositivecommunity.com

This is the last photograph submitted to TPC by popular photojournalist Zachariah Dais (Risasi), our beloved friend, colleague; a soul brother who passed away on October 14, 2021, at the age at the age of 72. See full obituary at thepositivecommunity.com

On September 14, 2021, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, U.S. Rep.Donald M. Payne, Jr., Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., the Gibson family, and other dignitaries unveiled a statue honoring former Mayor Kenneth A. Gibson, in front of City Hall, located on 920 Broad Street.

• Adrian M. Foley, Jr.-- who served as Essex County Surrogate • Samuel Brummer—owner of Hobby’s Delicatessen and World War II D-Day veteran • Cephas Bowles—WBGO Executive Director • Larrie West Stalks—former Essex County Register • Clement A. Price—Rutgers University History Professor and Newark and Essex County Historian • D. Bilal Beasley—Irvington City Councilman and Essex County Freeholder • Raymond Durkin—long-time Chairman of the Essex County Democratic Committee and New Jersey Democratic Part • Philip Thigpen—Essex County Register and longtime Essex County Democratic Committee Chairman • Thomas Durkin—Essex County attorney • Lena Donaldson Griffith—a cultural arts and civil rights pioneer in Newark and Essex County • Raymond Brown—a civil rights leader and attorney • Superior Court Justice Thomas “Timmy” McCormack—one of the authors of the County’s current Administrative Code and Freeholder By-Laws In additiontotoseveral several buildings and open spaces Innaddition buildings and open spaces in in the CountyGovernment Government Complex the Essex Essex County Complex have have been been named prominent people have named afterafter prominent people who have who influenced i n f lthe u e ndevelopment c e d t h e d eof v eEssex l o p mCounty. e n t o f E s s e x C o u n t y.

• The plaza in front of the Hall of Records and a bronze statue honor Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. • The park next to the Historic Courthouse and statue in front of the Hall of Records honor Barringer High School graduate and U.S. Supreme Court Justice William J. Brennan, Jr. • A plaza in front of the Essex County Veterans Courthouse and a statue honor civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks. www.thepositivecommunity.com

• The plaza and a statue in front of the LeRoy Smith Public Safety Building honor the late Congressman Donald M. Payne, who was the first African American congressman in NJ • The plaza at the south entrance of the Veterans Courthouse and a statue honor former NJ Governor and Essex County Prosecutor Brendan Byrne • The plaza in the Essex County Veterans Memorial

Rosa Parks Memorial, installed at the Veterans Courthouse, Essex County, New Jersey.

Park and a statue honor Jorge Oliveira, a veteran of the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, killed while serving his country in Afghanistan.

• The Veterans Courthouse and the Essex County Veterans Memorial Park are named as a tribute to the men and women who have defended our country and freedoms while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

• The Essex County LeRoy F. Smith, Jr., Public Safety Building is named for the Newark resident who served as Deputy Director of Emergency Medical Services for the UMDNJ for 38 years.

• In Brennan Park is a monument recognizing the late Charles Cummings, the official Newark historian and librarian with the Newark Public Library for over 40 years.

• T he plaza in front of the Historic Courthouse is named for former Essex County Prosecutor James Lordi.

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“We are building modern schools to provide our students with the most upto-date facilities to learn and grow. I am proud of our Essex County Schools of Technology for giving our students the educational foundation for their successful future.”

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive and the Board of County Commissioners are

InvestIng In our students’ future

BY REBUILDING OUR SCHOOLS

Essex County West Caldwell School of Technology was completely modernized and expanded with a new, two-story addition. It was opened in September 2021.

The Essex County Donald M. Payne, Sr. School of Technology is a state-of-the-art, 320,000-square-foot campus that replaced two aging school buildings. It was opened in 2018.

COMING SOON! The Essex County Newark Tech Campus (right) is currently being renovated and will receive a three-story addition with a new media center, cafeteria and classrooms. The Essex County College West Essex Campus (below) is getting a complete makeover. The only building is being replaced with 51,000-square-foot of cutting-edge space. Both are scheduled to open in 2022.

Putting our students

FIRST!

Money

Retirement Education buiness, finance + work

the art + science of learning

By DeForest Soaries

estate and re-invested profits when I sold properties. I invested all additional income I earned from working on corporate boards. At least 75% of the assets I have today I accrued after I was 50 years old. So, to all of my AARP members, it is not too late!

But I have learned a few things now that I am officially retired from my fulltime employment:

I

have learned so much since I retired from my position of senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, New Jersey. All of this learning has been quite profound for me especially because for most of my life, I didn’t actually think I would reach retirement age.

While a sophomore in college, I was kidnapped and almost executed. When you come that close to death at 19 years old, retirement seems an unlikely future prospect. My father died when he was only 47 years old.

He had not been sick, and yet he died from an overdose of anesthesia administered when he went to the hospital for minor tests. Ever since I passed age 47, I have had this eerie feeling of living on an extension of time.

But the main reason I had no clear vision of life in retirement was because I didn’t have any funds to support my retirement when I turned 40 years old. When I was in my twenties, I was preoccupied with community work and too busy looking prosperous to start investing in a retirement fund. I was “woke and broke.”

I spent the first half of my thirties paying for the mistakes of my twenties, and the second half starting to take care of my new family. When I turned forty, I realized I was at least fifteen years late to start saving if I wanted to have enough money to retire comfortably and live a normal life. By the time I was fifty, it was clear that I had to increase my savings and investments significantly if I wanted to retire before I turned 120!

So that is what I did. I started using 55% of my income to cover my living expenses and invested the rest. I invested in funds that had proven to grow investments and achieve above average returns. I invested in real

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1. Social Security and Medicare administrations are the most difficult bureaucracies to navigate that I have ever encountered. Perhaps if I had started learning how to deal with them when I turned 60, I would have less stress dealing with them today. They are horrible but unavoidable.

2. I actually work harder now than I did before I retired.

However, that describes my life from Monday through Friday. I now have weekends – and what a marvelous discovery!

3. Opportunities abound for me now that I am retired. I receive more invitations to speak, consult, write, and serve on boards than I did before. Perhaps I thought people would not have much use for an old man, but I have found the opposite to be true. To the extent that I have recently had to ask some people, “Do you know how old I am?”

4. Young people are much more willing to learn from my experience than I could have ever imagined.

When we consider young people from afar, they appear to be distracted by their devices and wallowing in meaninglessness. To the contrary, I am finding young people of all ages (when you get to my age, everyone is young) to be genuinely interested in my experiences. I started an Instagram group called “My Young People”, to which I forward posts that are meaningful to me and, hopefully, to them. And their responses are fascinating!

I thank God every day for the blessing of retirement. It is worth the sacrifices I made and the working years that I was fortunate enough to enjoy. www.thepositivecommunity.com

New Jersey Democrats— Are You Listening Now? It’s Time to End Racism in Car Insurance!

By John Harmon, Sr., president, African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ and Rev. Dr. Charles F. Boyer, co-founder Salvation and Social Justice; pastor, Greater Mount Zion AME Church

A message to New Jersey drivers:

Many of you are unaware insurance companies determine your auto insurance premium using additional factors other than your driving record. Specifically, your education, occupation, and credit score are proxies used to determine how much you pay to be an insured driver in New Jersey. Another fact you may not be aware of is Bill S-111 passed by the New Jersey Senate nearly a year ago to disallow auto insurers from using these factors.

At the same time, the New Jersey Assembly version (A-1657) remains held up by the Democratic legislature, which refuses to release the bill from committee for consideration for a vote. How ironic, since they have the majority.

There are several other facts we would like to bring to your attention. Using the aforementioned information to determine auto insurance premiums was banned in New York in 2018 and Michigan in 2019. Moreover, New Jersey Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (D) introduced legislation to abolish this practice nationally.

Why has the Democratic leadership not voted to pass the companion bill(A-1657) and advanced it to Governor Murphy for signature? It requires that the Senate and Assembly pass both bills.

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John Harmon, Sr.

Rev. Dr. Charles F. Boyer

Sadly, it has been 17 years since the discovery that the industry secretly employed racist practices to charge much more for those most likely to be poor and people of color because it meant greater profits. Yet today, we have a State Assembly that sits on a bill, which made it all the way through the Senate earlier this year banning the use of these discriminatory rating factors, The truth is, many New Jersey residents don’t realize this racial bias happens right under their noses. Car insurance companies charge millions of safe drivers up to double for their car insurance in some instances because they don’t have a college degree or work at a blue-collar job. Not to mention if they have a low credit score, they too are out of luck.

Unfortunately, insurers are under no obligation for transparency. Car insurance companies continue to base rates on “income proxies,” such as occupation, educational attainment, credit score, and homeownership, thus rewarding high-income drivers with the best rates and penalizing the poor and minorities with significantly higher rates despite how well they drive.

Four years ago, in the race for governor, Black and Latinx voters cast 94 and 86 percent of their vote respectively for Governor Phil Murphy. A significant amount of the Black and Latinx vote went to the Democratic Party across the state. Results from the most recent election were very close for the governor, and several prominent state legislators lost their seats, including Senate President Stephen Sweeney. We cannot point to a correlation between the election results and the inactivity from the Assembly on Bill A-1657. What we can say is that at a minimum, given the overwhelming support from the Black and Latinx community to New Jersey’s Democratic Party, they should have taken action to ban this method of determining auto insurance premiums, which adversely affects Black and Latinx people disproportionately.

The notion that any car insurance company should charge more to those in a worse financial position simply is wrong. www.thepositivecommunity.com

(L-R) Aisha Taylor Issah, Vanessa Freeman, Alexandra Bernard-Simmons and Yandy Smith-Harris

Superpower Panel: (L-R) Khalilah Webster, Jaye Wilson, Kika Wise, Lunic Adisson-Boyd and Dr. Cheryl Wood

Aisha Taylor Issah and Bevy Smith

Event attendees listen to Panelist

Yandy Smith-Harris

Sistahs in Business Do Business in Newark

Bevy Smith gives advice

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Photos: Raymond Hagans

I

t’s a fact: Black, female-owned companies make up the fastest growing entrepreneurial sector in the nation and the New Jersey independent business market is part of that growth. One rapidly growing business designed to help other entrepreneurs is Sistahs in Business Expo (SIBExpo), which wrapped up its 2021 national tour back where it all began in 2018—Newark, NJ. The SIBExpo is the countr y's only multi-city, small business expo created specifically to celebrate, empower, enrich, and support entrepreneurial women of color; the largest and fastest growing demographic of entrepreneurs in the nation. The SIBExpo provides an accessible platform where women of color expand their reach, grow their businesses, meet, and learn from iconic business professionals.

TV personality Bevy Smith and actress Yandy Smith-Harris, both businesswomen, did not disappoint as keynote speakers. Hosts PIX 11 News Anchor Vanessa Freeman and “Think Like A Boss” CEO Alexandra Bernard-

Elisa Fragher owner of Brooklyn Headline Expressions

Simmons kept the pace with lively and informative words of wisdom. Women made valuable business connections, shopped more than 100 brands owned by women of color, obtained signed copies of books from some of their favorite authors, and received real stories and advice from leading women in business.

The brainchild of Founder & CEO Aisha Taylor Issah, a successful entrepreneur, ordained minister, and college professor, the company continues to grow while helping others. Now, that’s a win/win for everyone!—TPC Staff

Bevy Smith signs her new book for Jackie Busbie

The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

Shining Star Kids Salon owner Keisha Hickson www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Newark Alliance Names Evan Weiss as New CEO Seasoned Financial and Policy Expert to Lead Non-Profit

E

van S. Weiss begins as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of the Newark Alliance, on December 1, 2021. He comes to the Newark Alliance, a leading nonprofit dedicated to the ongoing economic revitalization of New Jersey’s largest city, from the administration of New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy where he served as the senior advisor for Financial and Strategic Projects.

“The Newark Alliance is gaining one of the most trusted and gifted economic development minds in the Garden State,” said Governor Murphy. “Evan is a versatile professional who has helped our state develop and execute highly innovative business growth, infrastructure, and economic development programs,” he continued.

“We wish Evan nothing but the best as he moves forward in his career.”

In his role with the Murphy administration, Weiss managed the statewide deployment of economic and infrastructure components of $10 billion in federal stimulus across state and local governments. He was also responsible for the creation and implementation of New Jersey’s $600+ million COVID-19 economic, community, and housing recovery programs, which included rent and mortgage assistance, small business aid, and the first entrepreneur guaranty program in the United States.

Weiss advised on the financing of all major infrastructure and affordable housing initiatives and led successful efforts to create a funding plan for the Gateway Tunnel and the United States’ first purpose-built offshore wind port.

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Before joining the Murphy administration, Weiss served as the founding director of PEL Analytics, a division of the Pennsylvania Economy League, where he helped several states establish Opportunity Zone programs and developed strategic plans and initiatives for major cities including Philadelphia, Trenton, and Scranton.

“I look forward to working collaboratively with Evan as he assumes leadership of the Newark Alliance,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “His skills and acumen in the areas of economic and business development will be an invaluable asset as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuild Newark’s economic vitality.”

Lata Reddy, board chair for the Newark Alliance and senior vice president of Inclusive Solutions at Prudential Financial, said about Weiss, “His strong economic background and extensive experience working with the City of Newark and the State of New Jersey will enable him to serve the Newark Alliance, its members, and our partners well into the future.”

“I am excited and honored to join the Newark Alliance at this time in the city’s trajectory,” said Weiss, a 2013 graduate of the University of Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. “Working collaboratively with our members and board, city leaders, and a diverse community of stakeholders, the Newark Alliance will continue to play a key role in delivering on the vision of inclusive economic growth in Newark.”

—TPC Staff

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

Hon. LeRoy J. Jones, Jr.

Essex County Democratic Committee Annual Golf Outing

H

on. LeRoy J. Jones, Jr. serves as the Chair of the Democratic Delegation to the Legislative Apportionment Committee, and is currently Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee and Essex County Democratic Committee. Prior to this, Mr. Jones joined 1868 Public Affairs (a public relations firm) after a distinguished career as a State Legislator, County Freeholder and municipal government administrator.

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Reverend Dr.

David Je fferson, Sr., Esq. Serving God and His Community for Spiritual Fulfillment and Social and Economic Justice

BY R.L. WITTER

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

COVER STORY

R

everend Dr. David Jefferson, Sr., pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, holds many titles and roles, including teacher, attorney, radio and TV personality, husband, father, grandfather, and activist. However, the one most dear to him is husband to Linda Mouton Jefferson of Jennings, Louisiana whom he first met at Grambling State University. Married for forty-eight years, Jefferson is father to four awesome children and grandfather to nine wonderful grandchildren whom he affectionately refers to as the divine nine. Realizing his own home as the heart of his pastoral and social communities, Pastor Jefferson takes time to rejoice and spend time with his family.

Born in Doyline, Louisiana to the late Rev. Ernest Jefferson Sr., and Mrs. Wrender Jefferson in a home with fourteen other siblings, Dr. Jefferson grew up with a love for family that serves as the foundation of his ministerial vision of “Bringing Families Together around the Word of God.” Knowing education was the key to unlocking his future, Jefferson graduated from Grambling State University and then earned a Master of Business Administration degree in Marketing and Finance from the University of Dayton, Ohio. He also received a Jurist Doctorate of Law from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio and a Master of Divinity from Drew University in Madison, New

Jersey. Awarded a Fellowship in the prestigious Sloan Fellows Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Rev. Jefferson completed the Master of Science in Management degree program in 1989. He is a member of both the New Jersey and American Bar Associations; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated; chairman of the National Action Network for the State of New Jersey; and serves on the Council of Choose Healthy Life, a faith-based not-for-profit established to address health disparities in Black and brown families.

Called by the Holy Spirit into the Lord’s service, Rev. Dr. Jefferson also received a call to action. Seeing and experiencing firsthand how Black people are excluded from programs and deals designed to make money and spread it around communities, Jefferson became impassioned about helping his community culturally, morally, spiritually, and economically.

Dr. Jefferson answered the call to become the third pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark in February of 1995. Under his leadership, the church has grown to a 7000-plus member congregation. He continues to serve today under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, preaching and teaching the WORD of God, with a vision for the church of family ministry and community outreach. Having a heart for young people, Pastor Jeffercont’d on next page

Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. and First Lady Linda Mouton Jefferson with congregation members www.thepositivecommunity.com

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David Jefferson cont’d from previous page

son established a “Young People” focused service, which ministers explicitly to young people and their families.

Focused on “three Es”: Evangelism, Education, and Economic Justice. To strengthen the family unit, Pastor Jefferson has established a men’s fellowship group, “Men Stepping Up,” that reinforces the biblical values necessary for men to become solid foundations for their families and communities. In addition, First Lady Rev. Linda Jefferson leads Daughters of Christ and Women’s Fellowship ministries that serve the needs of women in their faith journey. Metropolitan houses some 30-plus vital, vibrant, vocal, and virtual ministries In striving to improve the plight of Black and other minority communities, Jefferson has aligned with business and political allies in an effort for inclusion in the American dream and, at the very least, equitable treatment and resources. He played a crucial role in advocating for Blueprint Capital Advisors—New Jersey’s only Black-owned financial management firm, when they were treated unfairly during a deal to manage NJ State employee pensions. “We are accustomed to seeing racism’s manifestations in harmful policies that spur police violence, mass incarceration, unfair sentencing, education inequities, housing discrimination, and the like,” Jefferson said. “But racism is wreaking havoc on our prospects for economic justice as well.” His passion, now, is to bring economic equity to Black and brown families.

Unafraid to speak frankly and clearly, Jefferson is a voice for the Black community saying, “We have the right to sit at the lunch counter. Now we need the resources to purchase from its menu. We have the right to enter the establishment. Now we need the path cleared so we

Responding to the work of the Holy Spirit, Pastor Jefferson is leading his flock to greater dimensions in the area of community outreach and evangelism.

Like Nehemiah, Pastor Jefferson has been convicted to rebuild the walls of the city of Newark, uplift families, and restore the community.

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TPC_Nov_2021_WF2.indd 18 The Positive

Community Newark Issue 2021

can own the establishment.” In 2020, he used his voice to hold several virtual town halls with nationally known personalities like Roland Martin, Marc Morial, Philanthropist Robert Smith, Rev. Al Sharpton, Sen. Cory Booker, and many others. These gatherings discussed economic and social justice with themes such as “The Black Church in Pursuit of Economic Justice” and “Economic Justice Is Economic Inclusion.”

Responding to the work of the Holy Spirit, Pastor Jefferson is leading his flock to greater dimensions in the area of community outreach and evangelism. Like Nehemiah, Pastor Jefferson has been convicted to rebuild the walls of the city of Newark, uplift families, and restore the community. To that end, he expanded Metropolitan’s physical campus to include The Willing Heart Community Care Center, a nonprofit center supported by the Heart to Heart Partners Covenant. Out of that center, Jefferson has initiated programs to meet the needs of families: food, clothing, educational supplies and assistance, financial programs, Christian counseling, and other services, as well as providing affordable Christian entertainment for the community. Healthcare equity loomed large in his bailiwick even prior to the COVID-19 scourge in the Black community. It is a mighty task; however, “…

The God of heaven will give us success.”—Nehemiah 2:20 While his humility belies the talents and achievements of the man, God surely has much more in store for Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. to accomplish in service to Him and his community.

11/23/21 www.thepositivecommunity.com

11:34 AM

Photos: Vincent Bryant

(L-R) Rev. Douglas and First Lady Lisa Williams, Zion Hill B. C., Newark, NJ,Rev Louise Roundtree, First Lady Helen and Rev. Dr. George Blackwell III

(L-R) Rev. Dr.George Blackwell III, Vincent Bryant and Adrian Council

Rev. Dr. Ronald L Owens, New Hope Baptist Church Metuchen, NJ

GBCNJ Laymen Mission Project Successful

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ewark’s Good Neighbor Baptist Church hosted the 117th Annual Session of the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, October 8-10. The three-day event brought Baptists from around the state to Brick City, with others attending the various panels, workshops, and programs virtually.

At these sessions, the organization brings together the people who make the church work— clergy, ushers, nurses, arts, music, youth ministries, etc.— providing skills development and best practices for those dedicated to spreading the word of God. One of the most active ministries is the laymen. We had the opportunity to speak with Laymen President Vincent Bryant, who delivered remarks and words of encouragement to the laymen of New Jersey on Auxiliary Night.

During his remarks, Bryant recognized three districts for their outstanding work and support of the laymen movement: • Bethany District: Rev. Dr. Andre E. Brown, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Magnolia; and Benjamin Whipple, Tabernacle Baptist Church, Burlington.

• New Hope District: Rev. Paul M. Graves, Sr., Clearway Missionary Baptist Church, Newark; and James Calhoun, Blessed Assurance Christian Life Center, Newark.

• North Jersey District: Rev. Reginald Steele, St. Paul Baptist Church, Passaic; and Calvin Lee Pearson, Clear View Baptist Church, Newark. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Bryant said he was extremely pleased by the support from across the state organization’s mission project— the purchase of new clothes for the Burn Center Closet of Saint Barnabas Hospital in Livingston, the largest burn center in North America. The clothes are given to patients when they leave the hospital.

A dual effort with the women's department, led

by President Janet Jasper, the donation will supply clothes for years to come according to the burn center director, who was “overwhelmed” by the gift.

(L-R) GBCNJ 1st VP Quinton Joyner, GBCNJ Layman President Vincent Bryant, Nehemiah Bowbre, and NE Region VP Darryl Koon

Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Photos: Seitu Oronde

(L-R) NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton

Civil Rights Leaders Honored with Birthday Celebration

(L-R) Rev. Jesse Jackson, NYC Mayor-Elect Eric Adams and Rev. Al Sharpton

(L-R) NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton

Reverends Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton Honored in Harlem

A

ccording to those who study astrology, people with October birthdays are born under the sign of Libra. Some of the traits assigned to Libra personalities, like the scales that symbolize their sign, are attaining balance, harmony, peace, and justice in the world. That sounds very much like the celebrants at the NAN House of Justice recently—Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson and Rev. Alfred Charles Sharpton, Jr. The two civil rights leaders were feted at a dual celebration on October 22, 2021.

Jackson turned 80 on October 8, Sharpton 67 on October 3. Family, friends, colleagues, and elected officials including NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio attended

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

the celebration. Jackson worked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and later founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) and the Rainbow Coalition.A presidential candidate twice

(1984 and 1988), in 1991, he ran for and won the position of shadow senator of Washington, D.C. (1991-1997), an unpaid position.

Though the party honored both birthdays, Sharpton yielded much of the night to honor his mentor, Jackson, and his more than 60 years of leadership in civil and humanitarian causes. Both men signed free copies of their books.—TPC Staff www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Bruce Moore

(Top row from left), Rev. Geraldine Harris, Rev. Keith Dennis, Min. Juanita Dunbar, Min. John Laguer, Rev. Dr. Wendy Kelly Carter, Rev. Itang Young, Rev. Dr. Thomas Johnson, Rev. Carl L. Washington III, Rev. Dr. Shon Adkins, Rev. Caiapha Rolle, and Attorney Adriene Holder, of the Legal Aid Society, and Alvin Bragg, incoming New York County District Attorney. On the front row, from left, are Rev. Nelson C. Dukes, Rev. Torrance Robinson, Rev. Dr. John L. Scott, Moderator Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe, Pastor Keith Roberson I, and Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III.

C

UMBA TAKES SOCIAL ACTION

iting the biblical call to justice for all people, clergy from the United Missionary Baptist Association of New York City & Vicinity (UMBA) and others, convened at the Gethsemane Baptist Church, Bronx, to “assess the present social, political and judicial climates and take the pulse of the people,” says UMBA Moderator, Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe.

He, along with fellow pastors, ministers, and those involved in justice work, came

together to discuss issues such as voter registration, housing, conditions on Rikers Island, policing, recidivism, and education.

UMBA represents over 170 church and congregations in Manhattan, Bronx and lower Westchester County. The association is a member of the statewide Empire Missionary Baptist Convention of NY. Harlem Pastor, Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington is president. —TPC Staff

Driving isn’t easy, but saving a life is.

Slow down. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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T

he year 2014 feels like a lifetime ago. President Barack Obama was in office and Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” played regularly on every radio station. Americans showed cautious concern about the Ebola virus as it bubbled a continent away. Meanwhile, we mourned the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner at the hands of police officers. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Ras J. Baraka became Mayor of Newark in 2014 and inherited a city at a crossroads with a $93 million budget deficit and the highest crime rate in nearly fifteen years.

Many viewed Newark as another Detroit— a city that had lost touch with its remarkable potential.

Seven years later, Newark is a different place partly due to a double-digit drop in the crime rate and efforts to increase the city’s economic outlook with corporations like Audible, Panasonic, Mars, and others now calling Newark home. And while many changes can come at a cost, like over-policing and gentrification, protecting the people of Newark from both, ranks high on Baraka’s list of priorities.

I asked how he worked to include the citizens of Newark in his efforts to raise the city’s economy. “It’s difficult. We put systems in place like inclusionary zoning ordinances that require affordability. We create an equitable growth commission to set guardrails for different things we do in the city. We try By to create opportunities for Black and brown businesses . . .” he explained. “We’re trying to build wealth here, raise the standard of living, and give people the opportunity to have access to resources at the same time as the city is developing.”

At a time when the subject of policing has been a polarizing one, Baraka’s efforts to find balanced solutions stand out. A staunch advocate for a Citizen’s Complaint Review Board with subpoena power, he also supports the city’s police force. “I’m from Newark. I know the people in these communities, people’s grandmothers and mothers. They want to feel safe in their own neighborhoods. The notion of we’re not going to have a police department just doesn’t work here.” He continued, “You have to fight crime, so we do that in a two-fold way. We do it by supporting the police department, but also by creating initiatives—community led initiatives that help

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka It’s His Show

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

Shane Paul Neil

Ras J. Baraka became Mayor of Newark in 2014 and inherited a city at a crossroads with a $93 million budget deficit and the highest crime rate in nearly fifteen years. Many viewed Newark as another Detroit—a city that had lost touch with its remarkable potential. www.thepositivecommunity.com

LEADERS & LEGENDS

“A lot of the problems the city had and were overlooked, we tackled. We’re changing the image of what people think Newark is, who is here, and what it’s about. People from all over the world, especially Black and brown countries, can come here and feel safe and comfortable.” reduce violence and crime . . . The idea is not to get rid of the police but to control the police. The police should be under the control of the community.”

With religion as an integral part of Newark’s culture, Baraka shared, “While I don’t use it [my faith] to govern, as people believe a myriad of things, what I do understand is that these faith institutions in our community have a great impact. They are organized, and they organize people in our community. These religious leaders are community leaders. They have to be involved in moving the city forward in a way that’s accepting of other people’s beliefs. I believe that we have to have deference to a higher power. I don’t like to mix my personal beliefs with what I’m doing politically, but I do understand there is a power greater than me.”

With less than a year remaining in Baraka’s current term, he didn’t mention the 2022 election in his recent

Seven years later, Newark is a different place partly due to a double-digit drop in the crime rate and efforts to increase the city’s economic outlook with corporations like Audible, Panasonic, Mars, and others now calling Newark home. www.thepositivecommunity.com

State of the City address. However, according to Insider NJ, “No one appears willing or able to step up in opposition to the popular Baraka,” and hints at a possible gubernatorial run in 2025 have surfaced, so we asked the Mayor about his accomplishments and the city’s future.

“A lot of the problems the city had and were overlooked, we tackled. We’re changing the image of what people think Newark is, who is here, and what it’s about,” he responded. “People always talk about the Black Meccas. People talk about places like Atlanta and Harlem; I think Newark has the opportunity to be that as well, in an expansive way. People from all over the world, especially Black and brown countries, can come here and feel safe and comfortable.”

For the next Mayor of Newark, Baraka has this advice, “There are a lot of pitfalls folks should be aware of. A lot of people like the lights, but when they get here, they don’t understand all the other things that come with them. You should really be prepared when you come and take this seat. Make sure you are furthering what the person before you left. It’s always a baton. You have to own it. It’s your show.”

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

Health ideas for wellness

Dancing for health

Mayor Baraka, NBIMC President Darrell K. Terry (center) and NBIMC leadership team

Information table

Newark’s Mt Calvary B.C. health ministry, TPC photographer Deacon Vincent Bryant

NBIMC President Darrell K. Terry (center) with members of hospital security team

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s Alma Beatty Health Fair

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ewark Beth Israel Medical Center is committed to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and to keeping our communities healthy. This summer we are excited to bring one of our most anticipated health fairs into the community...”

Chief Equity Officer and VP, Community Relations for Newark Beth Atiya Jaha Rashidi, RN, MHA, said prior to the event. “We are also honored to work in collaboration with the city of Newark to bring our neighbors ‘Back Together Again’ safely.”

This year’s annual Alma Beatty Health and Wellness Fair, one of Newark’s largest, took place on September 15 at the Marquis “Bo” Porter Sports Complex at 378 Lyons Ave., Newark. Newark Beth Israel Medical Center hosted, in partnership with the City of Newark’s Back Together Again initiative.

The health fair included a COVID-19 vaccination clinic, free health screenings, health information, and special in-person education sessions with expert clinicians. The “Ask a Pharmacist” and the “Meet www.thepositivecommunity.com

the Doctor” information tables were extremely busy.

Attendees enjoyed dance per formances from the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and the Newark Major Heat Majorette and Dance Program.

In addition, special programming for children included Bricks4Kidz, table tennis instruction, photo booths, carnival games, and more. There were special giveaways, raffles, and a food truck corridor. If you missed it this year, be sure to catch this exciting event in 2022.

“We continue to be inspired by the legacy of the late Ms. Alma Beatty, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s first African-American vice president, and a tireless advocate for our patients and our community,” said Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey President and Chief Executive Officer Darrell K. Terry. “It is an honor to host this inperson event and connect with our neighbors on the issues that matter most to their health and well-being.”

—TPC Staff Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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HELP FOR LINGERING COVID SYMPTOMS A new program treats adults who have long-term health effects of the coronavirus.

COVID-19 took the world by surprise.

Now, its aftereffects are providing a new challenge: A significant fraction of patients continue to experience health problems long after initial infection.

“First, we were hit with a tidal wave that was COVID-19. Now, we’re experiencing the next wave, postCOVID syndrome, and we still don’t know what its final damage will be,” says Christina Migliore, MD, Director of Pulmonary Hypertension at the Advanced Lung Disease and Lung Transplant Program at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBI) and a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Dr. Migliore oversees the Post-COVID-19 Recovery Clinic at NBI, working with a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

WHAT IS POST-COVID SYNDROME? Post-COVID syndrome is marked by chronic and sometimes crippling exhaustion, shortness of breath, racing heartbeat and brain fog.

A dry cough, chest pain, anxiety and depression also may be part of the condition.

“Most of our patients say symptoms Christina Migliore, MD

come intermittently and in waves,” Dr. Migliore says. “Even when seated, they may feel fine one minute, and the next they can’t breathe.”

WHO GETS POST-COVID SYNDROME? Even those who had a mild initial course of COVID-19 are vulnerable, and those with lasting symptoms tend to be in their 40s. Twenty percent of patients have debilitating symptoms—and among that hardest-hit group, the majority are women, according to many observational studies, Dr. Migliore says.

Over 80 percent of long-haulers seen at the clinic and in post-COVID syndrome studies have fatigue and shortness of breath, 50 to 80 percent have forgetfulness and more than half experience a racing heartbeat. Low lung function, inflamed heart muscle and kidney dysfunction are less common.

Though tests often show no lung damage and minimal heart damage, “The symptoms alone make this a significant disease,” Dr. Migliore says. “Close to 60 percent of those with severe post-COVID symptoms are unable to return to work.

“If you’ve had COVID-19 and four to six weeks later still experience

fatigue, shortness of breath, dry cough and other symptoms, see your primary care physician,” she advises.

COVID RECOVERY SERVICES A comprehensive workup, including heart, lungs and the nervous system, is often needed to rule out serious side effects or non-COVID-19 culprits. The NBI Post-COVID-19 Recovery Clinic has the depth and breadth to assess and treat patients with severe heart and lung damage or post-COVID syndrome in collaboration with NBI’s Advanced Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant Program cardiologists.

Personally tailored care for adults may include therapy to restore lung function, strengthen the body, improve memory, alter diet or give emotional support.

To learn more or contact the Post-COVID-19 Recovery Clinic at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, call 973.926.4189 or visit www.rwjbh.org/covidrecovery.

Pulmonary problems can take your breath away.

We’ll help you find it again.

Breathing is one of the human body’s most important functions. So when asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis or other lung problems make it difficult, we offer a wide range of treatments to help you breath again. We have one of New Jersey’s largest pulmonary hypertension programs, and the state’s only lung transplant program. Our post-COVID-19 recovery clinic helps people suffering from the long-term effects of coronavirus, and our screening programs can catch lung cancer in its early stages. Learn more at rwjbh.org/lungtransplant

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey.

He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

A Will to Be Healthy

I

believe it is time for the faith community to come to a full understanding that it is the will of God for each of us to live well. 1 Cor 6:19 asks us, “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” We must treat our wonderful bodies with the honor they deserve, thereby honoring God. Our community does a great job glorifying God with our spirit. There is nothing like a worship service at a traditional Black church! The music, the prayer, the praise, and the preaching—each edifies our soul.

But what about glorifying God with our bodies? How do we glorify God with our bodies? I would like to humbly submit, as the owner of the Fitness Doctor AKA FitCare 360º, that we do this by incorporating healthy eating and healthy exercise.

I want to speak to you today about prioritizing your physical fitness. Your first step should be scheduling a physical examination with your doctor. Routine annual testing can reveal hypertension, high blood sugar, elevated

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

cholesterol, cancer, and other chronic diseases. Follow your doctor’s testing recommendations for increased wellness!

Daily physical activity is a huge part of honoring our physical bodies and bringing honor to God. Exercise, or mindful movement, affects your health beneficially in multiple ways. Exercise is not just for weight loss – it strengthens your heart, improves lung capacity, and speeds up the metabolism. Physical activity improves your balance and flexibility and can eliminate back pain. Mindful movement encourages a balanced sleep schedule and improved mental balance.

Increased physical activity can benefit you immensely.

Try walking or jogging three to four days per week, steadily increasing the distance. Properly lifting weights will increase your bone density, muscle strength, and your posture. Exercise at home with only your body weight or use equipment. Invest in your health by purchasing some dumbbells, resistance bands, etc.

Healthy eating is also an essential part of honoring your body. Include vegetables, lean proteins, and lots of water in your daily intake. Save sweets for special occasions and try to eliminate salty foods from your diet. Adding a lot of color to your plate with fresh vegetables is appealing to the eye, to the tongue, and is so good for your body, your temple.

Peace and blessings be with you. God wants you to live well, and guess what? I do, too.

Be blessed, live well and Prosper!

Fitness training is available through the Live Well Church FITCARE program, offered at the Fitness Doctor Studio in Somerset, New Jersey. Please call Karen Beasley at 732-912-4435 to schedule a free assessment.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature. You should consult your physician or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or changing your dietary regimen. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Know the ABCs of Diabetes A

A1C A1C is your estimated average glucose. Find your target with your doctor.

B

Blood Pressure High blood pressure makes your heart work too hard.

Try to keep it under 140/90.

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Cholesterol Bad cholesterol (LDL) can clog your arteries. Keep your LDL level low for a healthy heart.

Learning healthy ways for your everyday life can make a big difference in how you feel.

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• How to watch your blood sugar • How to exercise and be active • Why doctor care is important to follow • How to create healthy habits so you feel better • How to plan healthy meals and snacks

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HONORS

F

or more than 18 months, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our lives more than any of us could imagine, none more than healthcare professionals who consistently risk their lives to protect the lives of others. Facing unexpected challenges, limited staffs, inadequate supplies, and dealing with double, often triple the number of patients needing immediate and intensive care, abiding by their sworn Hippocratic Oath to “…do no

harm,” with courage and grace, they tackled any obstacle to serving or saving a patient.

Sponsored by Aetna, The Positive Community’s Healthcare Heroes campaign salutes the doctors, nurses, aides, EMT’s, cooks, janitors, hospital and healthcare executives and many more who toil in anonymity— selflessly serving…

WE THANK YOU!

To read more about health care heroes visit: thepositivecommunity.com/heathcareheros

Dr. Kemi Alli

Joan Dublin

Dr. Kemi Alli has been CEO of the Henry J. Austin Health Center since 2015. The health center serves the diverse community of the Trenton/Mercer County area, consisting of African Americans and Latin Americans, including Spanish-speaking patients. In addition, there’s a significant number of homeless patients. According to Dr. Alli, 1 in 10 patients are homeless and approximately half qualify as low income. “There were a lot of unknowns.

It was a scary time for staff and patients."

Metropolitan Family Health Network President and CEO Joan Dublin in Jersey City facility manages 56,000 patient visits each year. During the pandemic, Metropolitan lost close to 10% of their staff. Despite the broad challenges, the center never closed. Their patients, who are primarily Hispanic and African American, expressed their relief and thanks that the center stayed open.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Health care Health Health care care Health care as low as $0. as as low low as as $0. $0. as Including low as $0. vision

Cuidado de la Cuidado Cuidado de de la Cuidado de la la salud desde $0. salud salud desde desde $0. $0. salud desde $0.

Incluyendo beneficios de la

Choose Amerigroup Choose Choose Amerigroup Amerigroup Choose Amerigroup for your whole family. for for your your whole family. whole family. for your whole family.

Elija a Amerigroup para Elija Elija a a Amerigroup Amerigroup para para Elija toda a Amerigroup para su familia. toda todasu familia. su familia. toda su familia.

Including Includingvision vision Including vision and dental. and dental. and dental. and dental.

Incluyendo Incluyendobeneficios beneficiosde de lala Incluyendo beneficios de la vista y dentales. vista vistayy ydentales. dentales. vista dentales.

www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj 1024303NJIENAGP 10 20 OMHC# 078-19-50

1024303NJIENAGP 1024303NJIENAGP 1010 2020 OMHC# OMHC# 078-19-50 078-19-50 1024303NJIENAGP 10 20 OMHC# 078-19-50

Photos: Raymond Hagans

Amerigroup: The Newest Resident of Brick City

A

merigroup, a NJ leader in healthcare for over 25 years, has opened a Community Care Resource Center (CCRC) in Newark located at 778 Broad Street.

The Newark CCRC offers the opportunity for both members and non-members to converse face to face with Amerigroup representatives about both Medicaid and Medicare benefits.

Visitors can speak with a representative to find out if they qualify for health benefits through NJ Family Care and/or Medicare and learn about benefits offered through the NJ Family Care program. Assistance in completing the NJ Family Care Application can also be provided and visitors can learn about extra benefits offered specifically to Amerigroup members.

You can learn more about: • Healthcare,dental and vision benefits offered through NJ Family Care, • How to find an Amerigroup provider • Extra Benefits available to Amerigroup members, such as car seats, booster seats, strollers, filtered water pitchers, and diabetic socks • Health education materials • Receive assistance with housing and obtaining food • Assistance with annual renewal of benefits, and more. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Food Distributions - Every first Friday of the month from 1-4pm the Newark CCRC Amerigroup gives away healthy food on a first come, first-served basis to the first 200 families to come to the event.

Amerigroup also operates a CCRC in Paterson located at 236 Main street. All CCRCs are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm.

Stop by Amerigroup's Community Care Resource Center to get the health benefits you need and the extras you want! —TPC Staff

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Photos: Karen Waters and Jay Davis

Education the art + science of learning

(L-R) Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D and NJ Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver

(L-R) Ada Morell, past Chair of the Kean Univ.Board of Trustees, Darlene Repollet, Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D and Matthew McDermott, member of the Kean Univ. Board of Trustees

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D

Kean University President

Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. Installed

T

he Kean University Board of Trustees announced its selection of visionary educator Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D, to lead the institution in May of 2020. One and a half years later, the president’s wife, Darlene, daughters Lauryn and Taylor, Kean faculty and students, state lawmakers, and presidents of other colleges and universities across New Jersey, gathered on October 14, 2021 to celebrate his investiture, which had been delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chosen at the end of a comprehensive national search, Repollet has strong ties to Kean and other New Jersey educational institutions. Repollet received his master’s degree in Educational Administration from Kean in 2000. He also served on the Kean Board of Trustees from 2011 to 2018, assuming the role of secretary as well as chair of Academic Policy and Programs Committee. He began his career as a mathematics teacher and coach in the East Orange School District and held positions as superintendent of the Asbury Park School District and principal of

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Carteret High School for more than nine years.

Before becoming Kean’s president, Repollet served two and a half years as the commissioner of Education under New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, during which New Jersey’s public school system ranked best in the nation by Education Week two years in a row.

He oversaw the shift in remote education amid the COVID-19 pandemic and played a key role in planning for the 2020-2021 school year.

“As I accept this appointment as president, I acknowledge, ‘To whom much is given, much will be required,’” Repollet said in his inaugural speech.

He also pledged to “…foster an environment where students learn, grow, take risks, make mistakes, regroup and keep climbing higher.”

Repollet, Kean University’s first Black president, is a man of many firsts including being the first African American commissioner of Education for the State of N.J. and the first Black principal of Carteret High School. —AAC www.thepositivecommunity.com

Kean University Continued

Essex and Union County Marching Band

Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr., First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, delivers the Invocation.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Darlene (Mrs. Lamont) Repollet with daughters Lauryn and Taylor

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(L-R) Luis Collazo, Adrian Council, Robyn Ince, Busie Matsiko-Andan, NJ Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver; LaTysha Gaines, Kevin L. Luing, Teri Duda, Newark City Council Member Larry Crump; Former President Berkeley College Michael J. Smith; and Bryan Santiago

Berkeley College Commemorates 90th Anniversary

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and those who want to reskill and prepare them so that when they graduate they are going to be hired.”

Oliver, who served as the keynote speaker, also shared her long history with Berkeley College, which she said dates back to 2004 when she was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly.

During her remarks, New Jersey Lieutenant Governor O l i v e r s a i d , “ T h e Sheila Y. Oliver marriage of Governor Phil Murphy and Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver occurred in the Berkeley College building in Newark.” She recalled her first meeting with the New Jersey Governor, which she said took place at Berkeley's Donald M. Payne, Sr. Library. “I wanted to introduce this person who was contemplating running for governor to some of the institutions that existed in our community,” she said.

“I wish you another 90 years of growth, another 90 years of service in our city and in the State of New Jersey,” said Baraka.

Additional festivities were held on September 28, Former President of Berkeley 2021, in the municipalities College Michael J. Smith where Berkeley’s other New Jersey campuses are located: Woodland Park, Woodbridge and Paramus, coinciding with a proclamation issued by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declaring September 28, 2021, as “Berkeley College 90th Anniversary Day.”

Photos: Raymond Hagans

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his tree is actually going to be planted right next to the Tubman monument … that speaks volumes to the mission and vision of the college, making sure that you appeal t o a d i v e r s e g r o u p o f Mayor of Newark Ras J. Baraka people in this city and making sure that they not only come to this school but they also graduate,” said Baraka.

The College was first established on September 28, 1931, in East Orange, NJ. Berkeley marked its return to Essex County with the opening of the Newark campus 15 years ago and has been part of the city’s economic revival.

“Besides our continued focus on student success where the student always comes first, Berkeley College maintains its dedication to being a part of the local community and giving back,” said Kevin L. Luing, Chairman, Berkeley College Board of Trustees, who also noted that since opening in 2006, more than 1,600 students have earned degrees from Berkeley’s Newark campus.

“Berkeley College has been part of (Newark’s) v i b r a n c e . We a r e a h u b f o r technology, we are a hub for employment … we are also the epicenter for higher education institutions,” said Ruiz. “Berkeley has been a part of that fabric.”

Michael J. Smith, former President of Berkeley College, said, “We are of this community.

Kevin L. Luing, Chairman, Berkeley Board of Trustees We t a k e t h e y o u n g p e o p l e

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Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Newark Working Kitchens, in collaboration with local restaurants, has delivered more than one million meals to residents in need — sustaining and strengthening the neighborhood anchors that are powering our city’s comeback.

Newark Working Kitchens needs your support now more than ever.

NewarkWorkingKitchens.com

HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED ISSUES AROUND VIOLENCE AND CRIME? YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

CONTACT THE OFFICE OF VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND TRAUMA RECOVERY FOR HELP, SUPPORT, ADVICE AND GUIDANCE.

973-733-5655

NEWARKNJ.GOV

Culture

music, art + literature

!

Health survival ideas for wellness

Jerry Jacobs, Jack Reyes, Kim Nesbitt Good, Pat Perkins-Auguste and ASM Jamal Holley

By James Frazier Newark News & Community; L-R: Adrian Council, Publisher Positive Crystal Orr, New Story Interim Collaborative President & CEO, Urban League of Union County, NJ and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver.

Black Theater Companies Pivot, Present | In-person Theatre is Back

F

Money

rustrated with the lack of diversity in AmerChurch on Henry ican theater, Ricardo Mohamed Khan and Street. Many performL. Kenneth Richardson conceptualized ers benefited from earthe Crossroads Theatre Company. Since its ly successes on NFT’s founding in 1978, Crossroads has produced stage—the late Chadover 100 works, many of them premiere wick Boseman, Debbie productions by African and African American artists, Allen, Morgan Freeincluding The Colored Museum and Spunk by George C. man, Phylicia Rashad, Wolfe, Jitney by August Wilson, Sheila’s Day by South AfDenzel Washington, rican writer Duma, Ndlovu and many more. Crossroads LaTanya Richardson received the 1999 Tony Award for Outstanding RegionJackson, Samuel L. al Theatre in the United States in recognition of its 22Jackson, Issa Rae, and Ricardo Kahn year history of artistic accomplishment and excellence. many more. Woodie “My father’s heritage is East Indian; my mother is Crossroads Theatre Company King Jr. retired from African-American and so they were bringing together leadership of the illusJuneteenth Reenactment twoHorseman cultures,” said Kahn.

“That’s ethically as well as trious theater at the end of June.

Wayne Johnson of Crazy Faith Riders, E.O.,NJ salutes and delivers the Emancipation Proclamation to New Jersey's Lt. geographically. there was never senseLt. Governor “During firstElizabeth part ofMayor the pandemic, March Governor Sheila Growing Oliver. Frontup, row L-R: Songstress MelbaaMoore, Sheilathe Oliver, Chris Bollwage, and 2020, thatElizabeth we were solely identified byRear: being BlackNJkids I had been Police Director Earl Graves, Elizabeth, Honorin Guard.

Photo credit:thinking John Henryabout retiring,” King revealed.

Camden, New Jersey. Yes, we were Black in Camden, “Then the pandemic increased in time. The offices but our roots are global. What I’ve always wanted to closed down. Then people needed to have shots. I tell people through Crossroads is that it’s about our said, ‘Wait a minute, I don’t want to go back to work. roots. As Black people in this country we should not I’m 83 years old. So, what should I do?’ I thought, I

BY JEAN NASH WELLS forget or even allow people to think this is all of who we needed a young person to run it. And that person was ver 300 supporters of Friends the festivities with a soul-stirring rendition are.” He continued, “There’s much more! The sense Elizabeth Van Dyke, our artistic director. She’s experiof New Jersey Legacy of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” of a connecting, having a theater like Crossroads that enced and understands how to communicate with this Foundation, Inc. and The Mrs. Opal Lee, dubbed “Grandmother connects to many different communities in this coun- generation. And getting that younger person to run it Positive Community celebrated a of Juneteenth” due to her activism to try and around the world is in order for us to redefine and work with me over the last year and five months, proclamation by President Joseph make Juneteenth a national holiday, sent who we are on a larger level.” solidified it for me.”

Biden making Juneteenth a a video message. Beginning in 2016, Mrs. Across the Hudson River, one of the pioneering instiAs millions of people quarantined last year, thefederal holiday in 2021 aboard the Lee walked two and a half miles each year tutions integrating artists of color and women into the aters around the world temporarily closed their doors Cornucopia Cruise Line’s luxurious representing the two and a half years it took mainstream American theater, Woodie King Jr.’s New and we were forced to stay at home without live enthe emancipation message to get to Texas. yacht, Destiny.

Federal Theater (NFT), faces major changes. Found- tertainment. For the first time, the theater found the The celebration continues on January 1, It was a fun-filled “thank you” ed in 1970, NFT began as an outgrowth of a theatre need to compete with social media and streaming at The Positive Community’s annual Great on October 9 to honor the tireless program called Mobilization for Youth. The theatre’s platforms. NFT embraced change, deciding to shift American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet efforts of ambassadors, sponsors, first season opened in the basement of St. Augustine’s theater to the digital space with pre-recorded and live at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark. Among spiritual leaders, and friends who came together to help pass legislation for the Juneteenth bill in New Jersey. the honorees is Sis. Kim Nesbitt Good, entrepreneur and Tony Award-winning songstress Melba Moore added to founding member of Friends of NJ Legacy Foundation.

buiness, finance + work

Education the art + science of learning

Juneteenth Freedom Dinner Cruise

O

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

Waiting to set sail

SVP Industrial Bank Willie Blalock (standing, R) with family and friends.

(L-R) Melba Moore, Gwen Carr (Mother of deceased Eric Garner) and Dr. Albert Lewis

Rev. Stefanie R. Minatee

Kim Nesbitt Goode

Seated L-R: Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver & Melba Moore, Standing L-R: Karen Waters, Kim Nesbitt Good and Min. Louise Rountree, Newark Clergy Affairs

L-R: Kim Nesbitt Good, NJ State Assembly Leaders: Rev. George Britt, NJ ASM Jamel Holley, ASW Verlina Reynolds Jackson, Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, ASW Cleopatra Tucker and ASW Shanique Speight

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Photos: Vincent Bryant

Pillar College Hosts Pastor's Appreciation Breakfast

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illar College hosted their eighth annual Pastor's Appreciation Breakfast at the Robert Treat Hotel, Newark. Always a well attended event and networking opportunity, Pillar connects the faith communities from diverse denominations from throughout the region.

Pillar College President Rupert Hayles Jr. and Dr. Wayne Dyer

Catering for all Occasions: • Weddings •Church Events •General Meetings •Parties •Full Service Catering Kevin Smallwood “Caterer to the Stars”

Two Fish Five Loaves.com

908.227.9065

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

• Outdoor Events/Cookouts •Bar-B-Ques •Fish Fry’s •Thanksgiving Celebrations •Christmas Parties

Mother’s Day Celebration Sunday May 8, 2022 •Amazing Food •Great Entertainment www.thepositivecommunity.com

the hip hop nutcracker

with guest mc kurtis blow dec 18 @ 2 & 8PM

earth, wind & fire

neil degrasse tyson The Inexplicable Universe: Unsolved Mysteries Wed, Dec 1 @ 7:30PM Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson unravels more mysteries of the universe in this cosmically entertaining evening.

the nutcracker State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Sat, Dec 11 @ 3:00PM A magical classic for all ages!

Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, The Nutcracker will fill you with holiday spirit.

Fri, Dec 3 @ 7:30PM See the iconic film on the big screen, followed by a moderated conversation with actor Cary Elwes.

stephanie mills & the whispers Sat, Jan 15 @ 8PM The dazzling Stephanie Mills returns to NJPAC by popular demand!

Tue, Dec 7 @ 8PM; Wed, Dec 8 @ 8PM Earth, Wind & Fire will turn NJPAC into a “Boogie Wonderland” for two nights.

Get your tickets, and “Let’s Groove!”

george clinton & parliament funkadelic with special guests 80th Birthday Celebration Fri, Jan 21 @ 8PM Celebrate 80 years of George Clinton, the “Godfather of Funk” behind Parliament and Funkadelic.

@NJPAC • 1.888.MY.NJPAC • njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561 One Center Street, Newark, NJ

nov_Positive Community .indd 1

11/8/21 4:25 PM

Uzo Aduba

Photo by Madeline Leach

MORE UNBUBBLIEVABLE

THAN EVER !

NOW ON BROADWAY

CLYDE’S LYNN NOTTAGE BY

UZO ADUBA

RON CEPHAS JONES

A NEW PLAY ABOUT SECOND CHANCES AND LAST RESORTS DIRECTED BY

EDMUND DONOVAN

KATE WHORISKEY

REZA SALAZAR

“ IT WILL BLOW YO-OPURRAHMWINFINREDY ! ”

KARA YOUNG

TICKETS: 2ST.COM OR 212.541.4516 HAYES THEATER 240 WWEST 44TH 44TH ST 212.541.4516 @2STNYC 240 STREET @2STNYC

T Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200 New World Stages 340 W. 50th St.

Clyde’s is supported by Art for Justice Fund, a sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, and by Terry and Bob Lindsay, with additional support provided by American Express.

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The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

GazillionBubbleShow.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

“A LONG-BURIED TREASURE.

TROUBLE IN MIND IS EXTRAORDINARILY WINNING AND SCATHINGLY FUNNY.” —PETER MARKS, WASHINGTON POST

NOW ON BROADWAY THROUGH JAN 9 ONLY SM

American Airlines Theatre

227 West 42nd Street 212.719.1300

roundabouttheatre.org

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED SHOWS the fully renovated

coming to

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY!

SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical

Nov. 26-28 With a score featuring more than 20 of Summer’s hits including “Love to Love You Baby,” “Bad Girls,” and “Hot Stuff,” this electric experience is a moving tribute to the voice of a generation.

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE

Dec. 8-9 The critically-acclaimed performance presents the ultimate holiday experience for families, combining Broadway musical and Cirque extravaganza!

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

Jan. 2 A holiday mash-up for the whole family featuring a cast of a dozen dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers, who opens the show with a short set.

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE Jan. 8 Join our intrepid explorer for this roarsome interactive show for the whole family. Discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs!

MEMPHIS JOOKIN’: THE SHOW featuring Lil Buck Mar. 27 This stage show takes you on a journey to the fabled city to chronicle how Memphis Jookin’ emerged from local street dance to international phenomenon.

STNJ.ORG | 732-246-SHOW (7469) Broadway Series Media Sponsor

Official Airline

Photos: Courtsey NY Christian Times

Eric Adams' Fundraiser Rev. Dennis Dillion

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n October 5th, Friends of Eric Adams had a meet and greet reception at the Wyndham Hotel in Manhattan. The fundraiser was hosted by Rev. Dennis Dillion, publisher of Christian Times and pastor of Rise-Up Church, Brooklyn NY. Brooklyn Borough President and democratic nominee, Adams won the election and will be the next Mayor of NYC.

Mayor-Elect Eric Adams

Cultural Narrative Presented to Grace Baptist Church Photo: Raymond Hagans

L-R: Keynote speaker, Rev. Adolphus C. Lacy, PhD, pastor Bethany BC, Brooklyn, NY, Adrian Council and Pastor Dr. Franklyn Richardson.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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ecently, publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. was invited to speak at a special Friday night men's fellowship meeting at Grace Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon, New York. He introduced the Cultural Narrative and briefly spoke about the ideals of positive change, community progress and the future.

After accepting the framed 19x25 poster, Pastor W. Franklyn Richardson pledged that the Cultural Narrative would be proudly displayed in the church vestibule "for all to see and read."

Grace B.C. with a membership of over 4,000, is one of the oldest and largest African American congregations in Westchester County. Rev. Richardson is also board chair of the National Action Network (NAN) and Virginia Union University.

Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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Y M M A R G & !

Y N N O I O T T A S N T HE E S G N I N N I W D R A W A ®

New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St. New York, NY JerseyBoysNewYork.com

CAROLINE, OR CHANGE HAS THAT POWER. IT SHOULD BE EXPERIENCED BY EVERYONE. I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE IT AGAIN.” —Adam Feldman, Time Out New York

EVERYTHING ABOUT IT WILL GIVE YOU CHILLS.” —Linda Armstrong, New York Amsterdam News

“A CANDIDATE FOR

—Helen Shaw, New York Magazine

—Jesse Green, The New York Times

SHARON D CLARKE

Book and Lyrics by TONY KUSHNER Music by JEANINE TESORI Choreographed by ANN YEE Directed by MICHAEL LONGHURST

STRICTLY LIMITED ENGAGEMENT Major support for Caroline, or Change generously provided by Ravenel Curry and Jane Moss.

Underwriting support provided by Roundabout’s Musical Production Fund partners, Andrew Martin Weber and Elizabeth Armstrong.

Studio 54 254 West 54th Street 212.719.1300 roundabouttheatre.org

DAZZLING! A marvelous musical buoyed by thrill-a-minute performances.

P E T E R M A R K S , T H E W A S H I N GTO N P O S T

PRETTY CLOSE TO

PERFECTION! B E N B R A N T L E Y, T H E N E W Y O R K T I M E S

ON BROADWAY AT THE IMPERIAL THEATRE AintTooProudMusical.com PHOTOS BY SAINT Proud Partner of Ain’t Too Proud

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Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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“A feast of Black joy, love and laughter!”

Ayanna Prescod, Variety

Catering for all Occasions: • Weddings • Outdoor Events/Cookouts •Church Events •Bar-B-Ques •General Meetings •Fish Fry’s A NEW BROADWAY COMEDY •Parties •Thanksgiving Celebrations •Full Service Catering •Christmas Parties Kevin Smallwood “Caterer to the Stars”

Two Fish Five Loaves.com

908.227.9065 On Broadway

70

Mother’s Celebration Get aDay SPECIAL TICKET OFFER when you May enter code CBRLM902 Sunday 8, 2022 at TelechargeOffers.com •Amazing Food •Great Entertainment

Circle in the Square, 235 West 50th Street ChickenAndBiscuitsBway.com

The Positive Community Newark Issue 2021

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PRAYER AND WORSHIP SERVICE

SATURDAYS 11:00 – 11:45 AM

CALL LINE 727-731-1201 The Upper Room Ministries is a national call-in ministry housed in New Jersey and dedicated to promoting the spiritual life of believers through worship, prayer and featuring ministers bringing the WORD. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark Issue 2021 The Positive Community

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The Last Word

BY R.L. WITTER

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES!

A

s the 2020 holiday season approached, there had been no trick-or-treating in our neighborhood and we were preparing for our first Thanksgiving without guests. Because neither of us know how to cook small portions, we froze leftovers and had several Thanksgiving dinners throughout the end 2020 and early 2021.

We canceled our 10-year anniversary celebration, which had already been postponed for a year and thankfully (surprisingly after more than a year at home alone together) we’re still married and hoping to celebrate in 2022. Spring brought our vaccinations and afforded us the luxury of a beach vacation during the summer. Sure, we only ate at outdoor restaurants and we wore masks indoors, but it was a welcome reprieve from the isolation of 2020. We socialized on our patio with other vaccinated friends and family members, but some people were always missing.

We haven’t seen any of our favorite younger nieces and nephews since the pandemic began. Without vaccines for those under 12, our interactions have been limited to FaceTime, Zoom, and drive-by greetings where we remain in the car and the kids stay six feet away to regale us with the latest stories from school and the latest dance moves they learned on TikTok. But now, there’s hope on the horizon. With the CDC’s approval of the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 in early November, we’ll be able to see and hug our favorite little people soon! Junie can sit in his uncle’s lap and give him a high-

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five when his favorite football team scores; and Roselle and I can sit at the kitchen table while she draws pictures for me to display on the refrigerator. Our six-year-old nephew, affectionately known as “The Owl,” can finally show us how his two grown-up teeth are growing in and return to his favorite hiding spot under our couch.

Hubby and I have received our booster shots so in December, we’ll be able to watch the old Christmas cartoons into the wee hours of the night and enjoy Christmas breakfast in our pajamas while the sound of sniggles, giggles, and squeals fill the house and gingerbread-crusted smiles look back at us. After an empty house for both Thanksgiving and Christmas, this year we’ll have 8 guests for Thanksgiving dinner and both of our mothers visiting for Christmas. What a joyful difference!

With prices soaring on food, airline tickets, and gas, things might not be as fancy and gifts not as extravagant as they’ve been in years past. However, the gift of togetherness is cheap at twice the price. The blessing of enjoying a cocktail with my mother-in-law and the humiliation of being roundly trounced by Miss America in a game of Scrabble will be greatly appreciated and forever remembered after missing them for nearly two years.

Despite the challenges and hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to modern medicine 2021 will be ending with a bang for us.

We’ll still cook too much food, but at least we’ll have friends and family to celebrate and partake with us and hopefully, take home some leftovers. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Our Country

Our Community

Our Culture Our Music

Our Future!

Streaming LIVE 24/7 America’s Best Music “In ‘Classic’ Black”

Commercial-free

Radio Visit our website: thepositivecommunity.com. Click on the radio tab.

For Forward Thinkers Only. | A Soundtrack to Positive Change—2022!

FEATURING: Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm and Blues, The Negro Spirituals, Soul Music, Hip-Hop, Spoken-Word, Reggae, Afro beat, The Gospel Quartets, Neo Soul, Blues, Rock n’Roll, Songs of Freedom, Country, Soca, Salsa, Samba, Ska, Compas, Dance Hall, Calypso, Smooth Jazz, Pop, Rock, Funk—BECAUSE POSITIVE MUSIC MATTERS!

Today and every day we celebrate the contributions of the 450,000 healthcare heroes of 1199SEIU, and the selfless way they continue to protect and heal our communities.

May their resilience and dedication serve as an inspiration to us all!

Join

for

THE GREAT AMERICAN EMANCIPATION DAY AWARDS Saving Our Own Community A celebration of freedom and progress with music, good food and fellowship

Newark Mayor Ras J. SATURDAY, JANUARY 1, 2022 2PM–6PM Baraka

Dr. Benjamin Chavis

President & CEO National Newspaper Publishers Association

Kim Bishop Johnny Ray Ambassador Suzan Debi Good Youngblood Johnson Cook Jackson Nesbitt Friends of NJ Legacy Foundation Pastor Mt. Pisgah BC, Brooklyn, NY

Former US Ambassador

Hal Jackson's Talented Teens Int.

(Juneteenth)

The National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) Host: Rev. Jacques DeGraff

Grand Ballroom Robert Treat Hotel 50 Park Pl, Newark, NJ 07102 Tickets: $125.00 Per Person: Table of 10 $1000.00

FOR TICKETS CALL 973-233-9200 Proof of Vaccination Required Attire: “Classic Black”