March 2021

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ March 2021

$2.95

thepositivecommunity.com

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

PASTOR’S WIVES: COPING WITH THE PANDEMIC ESSEX COUNTY EXECUTIVE: LEADING IN VACCINE DISTRIBUTION AKA REGINA FLEMING: HOW SERVICE AND SISTERHOOD HAVE SHAPED HER LIFE

Celebrating Women

The African-American community has a real choice for Governor this year.

THE CIATTARELLI PLAN ADVOCATE for more minority owned businesses and government contracts EXPAND educational opportunities through charter schools REPLACE failing infrastructure and clean up drinking water PRIORITIZE vaccine distribution in minority communities

“Give me a chance to earn your support.”

– JACK CIATTARELLI

PAID FOR BY CIATTARELLI FOR GOVERNOR, INC, PO BOX 427, SOMERVILLE, NJ 08876

Contact the campaign @ www.Jack4NJ.com or 732-639-0821 to learn more or invite Jack to speak with your group or organization.

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MARCH 2021

CONTENTS

SECTIONS MONEY ...................................10 HEALTH..................................23 EDUCATION.............................34 CULTURE ................................36

Features

8

Spotting and Avoiding Unemployment Identity Scams ... 10 Economic Justice Town Hall ..................................... 12 Congresswoman Yvette Clarke Heads Subcommittee .. 17

ON THE COVER: Vice President Kamala Harris shares the same, excited energy of a young girl as they exchange a hug. Harris is inspirational and relatable to people across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic lines.

&also inside

Women in Leadership .............................................. 18 Metropolitan Baptist Makes a Pitch to the People ... 23 Essex County Exec on Frontline of COVID Fight ......... 24 Young People Should Know about Colorectal Cancer ..... 30 Alpha Kappa Alpha Regina Fleming’s Life of Service .... 31 NYC Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter .................... 34 $1M Grant Helps Women in Ministry THRIVE ............ 36 First Ladies Cope During Pandemic ......................... 38 Convent B.C. Is Getting Vaccines into Arms .............. 41

Guest Editorial: ..................................... 8 GBCNJ Announces New Leadership .......................... 42 The Last Word .................................... 46 Cultural Narrative Presented .................................... 43

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The Positive Community March 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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THE BEST OF THE BEST. THAT’S WHAT A MAGNET® DESIGNATION SAYS ABOUT SAINT PETER’S NURSING EXCELLENCE. But this isn’t the first time the compassion, professional dedication and commitment of our nurses have been recognized. Our first Magnet® designation was in 1998. This latest Magnet® recognition marks the sixth consecutive time we have received this honor for nursing excellence.

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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

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

Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Senior Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., New Rochelle, NY Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, Pastor

Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Sheila L. Thorpe, Pastor

Mother A.M.E. Zion Church Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Malcolm J. Byrd, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor

Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor

St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor

Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor

St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. John Baptist Church, Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

BCT Partners, Newark, NJ Dr. Randal Pinkett, CEO

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder

Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor

First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor

Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor

Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor

First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor

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

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

First Baptist Church of Kenilworth, NJ Rev. Nathaniel Bullock Jr., Pastor

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

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

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

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

New Beginnings Agape Christian Center, Freehold, NJ Rev. Dr. Andre McGuire, 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. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., 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

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

Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor

Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor

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

Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor

Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis, President

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

Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, East Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, 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 New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor

St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, 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

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

Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor

New Reid Temple COGIC East Orange, NJ Bishop William Cahoon

United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor

Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., Pastor

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., President & CEO

Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor

Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Pastor

North Selton AME Church, Piscataway, NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors

Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor

It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, 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

cousins, daughters, and friends. selves in her. We also see our mothers, sisters, aunties, sees herself as a Black woman and Black women see ourris is steeped in Black knowledge and Black culture. She hallowed ground of Howard University, The Mecca. Harshe identifies as Black. She reached womanhood on the While Harris is biracial, like former President Obama, stands firmly on Chisholm’s shoulders. only four years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Harris and Harlem classrooms to a seat in the U.S. Congress ication, and tenacity took her from teaching in Brooklyn ever attempted or executed. Chisholm’s principles, dedorate handshake, dap, and fist bump Black folks have Witter Chisholm deserves a Wakandan salute and the most elab-

Leader Leader

Vice President Kamala H arris is eVery Woman Vice President Kamala Harris is eVery Woman

By R.L.

By R.L. Witter Chisholm deserves a Wakandan salute and the most elabBy R.L. Witter orate handshake, dap, and fist bump Black folks have ever attempted or executed. Chisholm’s principles, dedChisholm deserves a Wakandan salute and the most elabication, and tenacity took her from teaching in Brooklyn orate handshake, dap, and fist bump Black folks have and Harlem classrooms to a seat in the U.S. Congress ever attempted or executed. Chisholm’s principles, dedonly four years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Harris ication, and tenacity took her from teaching in Brooklyn stands firmly on Chisholm’s shoulders. and Harlem classrooms to a seat in the U.S. Congress While Harris is biracial, like former President Obama, only four years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Harris she identifies as Black. She reached womanhood on the stands firmly on Chisholm’s shoulders. hallowed ground of Howard University, The Mecca. HarWhile Harris is biracial, like former President Obama, ris is steeped in Black knowledge and Black culture. She she identifies as Black. She reached womanhood on the sees herself as a Black woman and Black women see ourhallowed ground of Howard University, The Mecca. Harselves in her. We also see our mothers, sisters, aunties, ris is steeped in Black knowledge and Black culture. She cousins, daughters, and friends. sees herself as a Black woman and Black women see ourMany of Harris’ friendships were born on Howard’s selves in her. We also see our mothers, sisters, aunties, campus and through her membership in Alpha Kappa cousins, daughters, and friends.

Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. The U.S. vice president Many of Harris’ friendships were born on Howard’s became a member of the oldest Black sorority on the campus and through her membership in Alpha Kappa historic campus where it was founded. She has line sisAlpha Sorority, Incorporated. The U.S. vice president ters, knows how to play spades, and can’t remain seatbecame a member of the oldest Black sorority on the ed when she hears the drumbeat of the marching band. historic campus where it was founded. She has line sisShe’s cooked collard greens and cornbread on camera ters, knows how to play spades, and can’t remain seatand schooled Senator Mark Warner on how to make a ed when she hears the drumbeat of the marching band. proper tuna salad sandwich — with mustard, rebuking She’s cooked collard greens and cornbread on camera him for putting the bread in the microwave instead of the and schooled Senator Mark Warner on how to make a toaster. And we all identified with that moment whether proper tuna salad sandwich — with mustard, rebuking as the mother/auntie/big sister doing the scolding and him for putting the bread in the microwave instead of the instruction, or as the culinarily-challenged person being toaster. And we all identified with that moment whether scolded. as the mother/auntie/big sister doing the scolding and There’s a certain ease about Kamala Harris. She comes instruction, or as the culinarily-challenged person being across as comfortable in her skin and can offer that confiscolded. dence and comfort to other women of color everywhere.

There’s a certain ease about Kamala Harris. She comes Just the other day I was speaking with an old friend, anacross as comfortable in her skin and can offer that confiother Black woman named Kamala. She revealed that afdence and comfort to other women of color everywhere. ter more than 50 years, she has finally begun correcting Just the other day I was speaking with an old friend, anpeople on the pronunciation of her name. “I used to just other Black woman named Kamala. She revealed that afanswer to Camila, CAM-uh-lah, Ka-MAY-luh, or anything ter more than 50 years, she has finally begun correcting else,” she said. “But now, I correct them. I make them repeople on the pronunciation of her name. “I used to just peat it after me until they get the proper pronunciation. answer to Camila, CAM-uh-lah, Ka-MAY-luh, or anything And I’m not just doing it for me. I’m doing it for our else,” she said. “But now, I correct them. I make them revice president, and for every other Black or Brown girl peat it after me until they get the proper pronunciation. or woman with a non-traditional name. I’m demanding And I’m not just doing it for me. I’m doing it for our they put respect on those names for all of us, especially vice president, and for every other Black or Brown girl our vice president.” or woman with a non-traditional name. I’m demanding they put respect on those names for all of us, especially www.thepositivecommunity.com our vice president.”

Kamala Harris is eVery Woman Vice President Leader

V V

ice President Kamala Harris is a game changer.

In one, fell swoop, American History was forever changed by the election of America’s first woman, ice President Kamala Harris is a game changer.

Black, and Asian vice president. She’s also the first gradIn one, fell swoop, American History was forever uate of a Historically Black College or University to hold changed by the election of America’s first woman, the office. She’s also a shining example of how minority Black, and Asian vice president. She’s also the first gradrule has been the American norm. There are five miluate of a Historically Black College or University to hold lion more American women than men according to the the office. She’s also a shining example of how minority 2010 U.S. census. Yet, women still comprise only a minute rule has been the American norm. There are five milfraction of corporate executives and CEOs, House and lion more American women than men according to the Senate members, governors, and other leadership posi2010 U.S. census. Yet, women still comprise only a minute tions. Add race and ethnicity into the equation and the fraction of corporate executives and CEOs, House and fractions become infinitesimal. But that seems likely to Senate members, governors, and other leadership posichange now. tions. Add race and ethnicity into the equation and the Women and girls worldwide are impacted and infractions become infinitesimal. But that seems likely to spired by Harris’ rise to the penultimate political office change now. in the United States. Her appeal crosses racial, socioecoWomen and girls worldwide are impacted and innomic, and ethnic boundaries. The daughter of an Indispired by Harris’ rise to the penultimate political office an immigrant mother and a Jamaican immigrant father, in the United States. Her appeal crosses racial, socioecoHarris is the physical embodiment of the great, American nomic, and ethnic boundaries. The daughter of an Indimelting pot we’ve all heard heralded for more than one an immigrant mother and a Jamaican immigrant father, hundred years. Her ethnically ambiguous appearance alHarris is the physical embodiment of the great, American lows people around the world to see a bit of themselves in melting pot we’ve all heard heralded for more than one her, thus making her seem more approachable and her hundred years. Her ethnically ambiguous appearance alhistoric achievements more attainable for those to come lows people around the world to see a bit of themselves in after her. her, thus making her seem more approachable and her Pundits oft remind us of how Hillary Rodham Clinhistoric achievements more attainable for those to come ton and Madeleine Albright deserve nods for opening after her. the door for women at the highest levels of American Pundits oft remind us of how Hillary Rodham Clinpolitics. They do. But if they deserve nods then Shirley ton and Madeleine Albright deserve nods for opening the door for women at the highest levels of American 8 The Positive Community March 2021 politics. They do. But if they deserve nods then Shirley

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O M E N ’ S H I S TO W IS RY H M ATE THE DRIV R C B E O L I N E R GF N A WE C OR D

IN AMERICAN HOMEBUYING HISTORY 1718:

Women are able to own and manage property – if their husbands are incapacitated (enacted in PA).

1852:

New Jersey Legislature recognizes married women’s rights to their own property.

1981:

The U.S. Supreme Court overturns state laws designating a husband “head and master” with unilateral control of property owned jointly with his wife.

2020:

Single women buyers are the top homebuyers after married couples ( 19% of total home purchases).

Women are DREAMING BIGGER Qualified homebuyers can take advantage of NJHMFA’s First-Time Home Buyer mortgage program coupled with the $10,000 Down Payment Assistance Program to make their homeownership dream a reality.

The $10,000 loan is interest free, requires no payments and is forgivable after five years.

Learn more at TheRoadHomeNJ.com

njhousing.gov NJHMFA is an agency of state government dedicated to offering New Jersey residents affordable and accessible housing.

Money

business, finance + work

Is A Scammer Getting Unemployment Benefits In Your Name?

I

n a large-scale scam erupting in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, imposters are filing claims for unemployment benefits, using the names and personal information of people who have not filed claims. People learn about the fraud when they get a notice from their

state unemployment benefits office or their employer about their supposed application for benefits.

If this happens to you, it means someone is misusing your personal information, including your Social Security number and date of birth. Act fast.

Here are steps that can help you protect your finances and your credit: • • • • •

Report the fraud to your employer. Keep a record of who you spoke with and when.

Report the fraud to your state unemployment benefits agency.

If possible, report the fraud online. An online report will save you time and be easier for the agency to process.

Keep any confirmation or case number you get. If you speak with anyone, keep a record of whom you spoke with and when.

Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report the fraud to the FTC

Some of the additional actions you will need to take are outlined below: Place a one-year fraud alert on your credit, it’s free. Make certain to get your free credit reports, and close any fraudulent accounts opened in your name.

IdentityTheft.gov also will help you add a free extended fraud alert or credit freeze to your credit report. These make it more difficult for an identity thief to open new accounts in your name.

the real person’s account .If this happens to you, the imposters may call, text, or email to try to get you to send some or all of the money to them. They may pretend to be your state unemployment agency and say you received the money in error. This is a money mule scam, and participating in one could cause you more difficulties.

Review your credit reports often. For the next year, you can check your reports every week free of charge through AnnualCreditReport.com. This can help you spot any new fraud quickly.

If you receive benefits you never applied for, report it to your state unemployment agency and ask for instructions. Do not respond to any calls, emails, or text messages telling you to wire money, send cash, or put money on gift cards. Your state agency will never tell you to repay money that way. Anyone who tells you to do those things is a scammer. Every time.

Source: Division of Consumer & Business Education, FTC

One other thing: The scammers usually have the unemployment payments deposited to accounts they control, but sometimes payments are sent to

10

The Positive Community March 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

All Are Welcome!

Join Pillar College during the May 6th

National Day of Prayer Pre-Program Music by Faith Arts Center

8:45am to 10:15am

via ZOOM and FACEBOOK LIVE!

GUEST SPEAKER PASTOR CARTER CONLON

Chairman of the Board and General Overseer of Times Square Church

RSVP: pillar.edu/national-day-of-prayer

NDOP_PositiveCommunity1/2page.indd 1

Inspiring women to embrace a life-changing profession

3/23/21 9:52 AM

Sergeant Alina Gutierrez-Spies and Trooper Kerry-Ann Binns each decided to challenge themselves, undergoing one of the most prestigious, rigorous training academies in the nation becoming New Jersey State Troopers.

Sergeant Alina Gutierrez-Spies is a Hispanic American born in Miami, Florida and grew up in Hamilton, New Jersey. Joining the Army right out of High School she later graduated from Primary Leadership Development Course as the Honor Graduate to become a Sergeant, ultimately putting her in the role of a mission squad leader in Iraq in 2004 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III. Sergeant Spies graduated June of 2008 and is the first female Combat Veteran of the Division. Her experience includes road duty Trooper, Public Information Unit, Recruiting Unit, and now the Outreach Unit. She exhibits the leadership qualities needed to build effective teams and she frequently volunteers to participate in community events and speaking engagements to people of all ages throughout the state.

Trooper Kerry-Ann Binns is a 1st Generation Jamaican American born in Paterson, New Jersey and grew up in Newark. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at St. Peter’s University and began serving her community in the Department of Homeland Security.

Trooper Binns overcame adversity and graduated in June of 2017 at the top of her class in all physical training. After becoming a State Trooper, she continued her education, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Training & Development, Education and Administration from Seton Hall University. She has worked as a road duty Trooper in Troop C and now at Newark Station on the New Jersey Turnpike and is proud to serve and give back to her community. www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2021 The Positive Community

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Economic Justice Town Hall

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ationally syndicated talk show host Roland S. Martin closed out Black History Month hosting one of several economic justice town hall meetings focused on solutions to New Jersey’s economic, health, and educational disparities. More 22,000 viewed the virtual event and thousands more have signed on to the recorded version—amassing over 50,000 total views on multiple digital platforms. You can still link to the event at https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv-RXPjMUPMMr. Martin will be back to host another in the series of virtual town halls on Sunday, April 11 at 3:00pm. Feaured panelists: • The Reverend Al Sharpton — Founder of the National Action Network, Host of “Politics Nation on MSNBC, Author • Robert F. Smith — Billionaire Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, and on the Forbes Wealthiest Americans List • Jennifer Jones Austin — Author, NAN Board Member, and Host of WBLS “Open Line” • John Rogers — The Nation’s First Black Money Manager and Founder of Ariel Capital • Rev. Dr. David Jefferson Sr., Esq. — Pastor of Newark’s Metropolitan Baptist Church and President of NAN New Jersey A powerful exchange of ideas is sure to take place in this third town hall, which grew out of public hearings initiated by NJ State Senate President Stephen Sweeney and NJ State Senator Ronald Rice focusing on supporting Black communities and Black businesses.

The event is sponsored in part by the National Action Network for New Jersey, Wells Fargo Bank, and The Positive Community.

12

The Positive Community March 2021

A Berkeley College education empowers women to change the world.

To learn more visit: https://berkeleycollege.edu/90Years

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BECOME PART OF OUR FUTURE. LEADING. PROTECTING. EVOLVING. FOR 100 YEARS. APPLICATIONS OPEN: 3/28 TO 4/23 Although the process is just getting started, everyone interested in wearing the uniform should begin preparing NOW. Get a head start by learning the REQUIREMENTS and begin your personal physical training TODAY! Go to our website at njtrooper.com to learn more and look for the application opening!!

If you are READY NOW and want to talk with one of our recruiters, visit here and get things moving TODAY! Become part of an evolving tradition. www.njsp.org/recruiting/contact-local-recruiter.shtml Applications open: 3/28 to 4/23 njtrooper.com

LEADING. PROTECTING. EVOLVING.

EOE

2020-2024 General Baptist Convention of New Jersey

14

The Positive Community March 2021

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Clarke Appointed Chair of Powerful Subcommittee The Homeland Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee

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pon her appointment as chair of the Homeland Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke expressed her sentiments. “I am honored to serve on this subcommittee. The salient issue of cybersecurity encompasses everything that pertains to protecting our nation’s sensitive data, intellectual property, and governmental and industry information systems from theft, tampering, and damage.

She continued, “Our society is more technologically reliant than ever before and the spread of false, deceptive, or misleading statements, information, acts, or practices, amplified by the use of technology and social media, threatens the integrity of democratic institutions and the rule of law, which form the foundation of our democracy. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Biden-Harris administration to advance and fortify our nation’s cybersecurity, infrastructure protection, and innovation.”

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee legislates and oversees programs and issue areas of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) mission in cybersecurity, infrastructure protection, and promoting security technologies.

“I am glad Congresswoman Clarke will be leading our Committee’s Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee this Congress.” said Congressman Bennie Thompson, chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security. “After the previous Administration failed to make cybersecurity a top priority in the face of growing and evolving threats, we will have to make up for lost time. There will be a great deal of work ahead to mature our federal network security programs, implement robust chain risk management practices, and evolve the partnership between the Federal government and the www.thepositivecommunity.com

private sector. I have every confidence Rep. Clarke is the right person for the job.”

Yvette D. Clarke has been in Congress since 2007.

She represents New York’s Ninth Congressional District, which includes Central and South Brooklyn. Clarke is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and a senior member of the Committee on Homeland Security.

Our society is more technologically reliant than ever before and the spread of false, deceptive, or misleading statements, information, acts, or practices, amplified by the use of technology and social media, threatens the integrity of democratic institutions, and the rule of law which form the foundation of our democracy. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the BidenHarris administration to advance and fortify our nation’s cybersecurity, infrastructure protection, and innovation March 2021 The Positive Community

17

W Women omenin inL Leadership eadership M M

Martha Martha Nkansah, Nkansah, BSN, BSN, RN-BC RN-BC Nurse Nurse Manager Manager Holy Holy Name Name Medical Medical Center Center

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The Positive Community March 2021

artha artha Nkansah, Nkansah, BSN, BSN, RN-BC RN-BC hashas cared cared forfor patients patients at at thethe bedside bedside and and as as a nurse a nurse manager manager forfor 27 27 years. years.

After After graduating graduating from from thethe Hospital Hospital forfor Special Special Surgery’s Surgery’s LPN LPN program program in in 1994, 1994, sheshe worked worked in in several several New New York York City City hospitals hospitals and and long-term long-term care care facilities. facilities.

She She received received herher RNRN diploma diploma from from Excelsior Excelsior College College in in 2002 2002 and and herher BSN BSN degree degree from from Fairleigh Fairleigh Dickinson Dickinson University University in in 2013.

2013.

In In 2003, 2003, Martha Martha joined joined Holy Holy Name Name Medical Medical Center Center as as a staff a staff nurse, nurse, waswas soon soon promoted promoted to to clinical clinical coordinator coordinator and and to to nurse nurse manager manager in in 2010.

2010.

MarMarthatha nursing nursing is the is the only only profession profession ever ever wanted: wanted: “Nursing “Nursing is the is the best best example example of of giving giving back back without without expecting expecting anything anything in in return. return.

Being Being a nurse a nurse manager manager affords affords meme thethe ability ability to to practice practice bedside bedside nursing nursing and and also also influence influence and and ed-educate ucate thethe next next generation generation of of nurses.” nurses.”

OnOn December December 17,17, 2020, 2020, sheshe waswas one one of of thethe first first frontline frontline professionals professionals to to receive receive thethe COVID-19 COVID-19 vaccine, vaccine, shortly shortly after after it arrived it arrived at at Holy Holy Name.

Name.

InspirInspiringing others others to to receive receive thethe vaccine, vaccine, sheshe points points to to herher personal personal philosophy philosophy to to livelive and and lead lead by by example: example: “We “We faced faced thethe devastation devastation of of COVID-19 COVID-19 and and came came through. through.

Now Now it isit time is time to to choose choose lifelife and and getget thethe vaccine.” vaccine.”

HeHe faith faith hashas been been thethe most most positive positive force force in in herher profession profession explains explains MarMartha. tha.

A resident A resident of of Fair Fair Lawn, Lawn, NJ,NJ, sheshe is ais member a member of of thethe pastoral pastoral team, team, a a teacher teacher of of Bible Bible studies, studies, and and church church secretary/liaison secretary/liaison to to thethe Board Board of of New New Directions Directions Bible Bible Temple Temple in in thethe Bronx.

Bronx.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Tanya Hudson-Murray Managing Director Multifamily Programs New Jersey Housing Mortgage and Finance Agency (NJHMFA)

s the managing director of the Multifamily Supportive Housing and Lending Division, Tanya Hudson-Murray manages a loan portfolio of approximately $900 million. These funds enable the creation of multifamily rental housing for family, senior, and special needs populations. She oversees the day-to-day operations and manages a team of professionals who perform complex financial analyses of mortgage loans and develop innovative financial strategies for new construction and existing multifamily rental properties. Hudson-Murray has served in various other capacities at NJHMFA including director, deputy director, assistant director, loan manager, credit and asset management administrator and credit officer. Prior to joining NJHMFA in 2006, she managed the collateral asset team at Federal Home Loan Bank of New York where she supervised collateral operations staff in completing and approving the day-to-day operations process. In addition to her career in public service, Ms. Hudson-Murray spent over 15 years in the private banking industry.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences majoring in General Studies and Humanities with a concentration in Business Administration from Rider University.

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Dr. Jocelynne Rainey CEO and President Getting Out and Staying Out (GOSO)

r. Jocelynne Rainey is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of management experience and a leader in the workforce development sector in New York City. As CEO and president of Getting Out and Staying Out (GOSO), a leading citywide non-profit serving justice-involved individuals, Dr. Rainey oversees programming which has helped more than 10,000 young men access education, achieve emotional well-being, and secure meaningful employment since its advent 15 years ago. GOSO’s innovative workforce development program, GOSOWorks, has placed hundreds of justice-involved young men in paid internships and internship-to-employment placements in fields including non-profits, food service, construction and building maintenance, and growth industries in the metropolitan area.

Before coming to GOSO, Dr. Rainey was executive vice president and chief administrative officer for the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation (BNYDC), leading workforce development, administration, security, and human resource strategies for the organization. She established impactful partnerships in order to connect the underserved community in Brooklyn with career opportunities in the Yard’s growing industries, eliminating barriers to employment for disadvantaged populations, and increased placements of formerly incarcerated individuals to 20 percent and total workforce placements from 100 to over 500 in eight years.

Prior to her tenure at BNYDC, she was the human resources director for specialty food retailer Agata and Valentina. Dr. Rainey also has held senior positions at Independent Living Association, Home Depot, and Boar’s Head. A graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, Dr. Rainey holds a master’s in administration from Metropolitan College and a doctorate in Leadership from St. John Fisher College. She is a member of the New York City Workforce Development Board, a trustee of the New York College of Technology Foundation Board, and trustee of the Brooklyn Children Museum Board. Dr, Rainey is the recipient of several prestigious honors including being named one of The Network Journal’s 25 Influential Black Women in Businesses in 2016. Dr. Rainey resides in Brooklyn with her husband, Dr. Perry Rainey, a high school principal; and has two adult sons. cont’d on next page

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March 2021 The Positive Community

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WOMEN IN LEADERSIP cont’d from previous page WOMEN WOMEN IN LEADERSIP IN LEADERSIP cont’d from cont’d previous from previous page page

Lesleigh Irish-Underwood MetroPlusHealth Lesleigh Lesleigh Irish-Underwood Irish-Underwood Chief Brand and MetroPlusHealth MetroPlusHealth External Relations Officer Chief Brand Chief and Brand and External External Relations Relations Officer Officer

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rish-Underwood joined MetroPlusHealth earlier this year as SVP and chief marketing officer. She comes to MetroHealthPlus from United Way rish-Underwood rish-Underwood joined joined MetroPlusHealth MetroPlusHealth earlier earlier this year thisas year SVP asand SVP and of New York City (UWNYC), where she served as SVP and chief marketchief marketing chief marketing officer. officer.

She comes She to comes MetroHealthPlus to MetroHealthPlus from United from United Way Way ing officer, and was responsible for innovating growth-driving marketing of New of York New City York (UWNYC), City (UWNYC), where she where served she as served SVP as and SVP chief andmarketchief marketsolutions, accelerating company-wide digital capabilities, and building loying officer, ing officer, and wasand responsible was responsible for innovating for innovating growth-driving growth-driving marketing marketing al donor engagement. Throughout her tenure, she oversaw UWNYC’s B2B solutions, solutions, accelerating accelerating company-wide company-wide digital capabilities, digital capabilities, and building and building loyloyand B2C brand awareness initiatives and implemented creative marketing al donor al engagement. donor engagement.

Throughout Throughout her tenure, her tenure, she oversaw she oversaw UWNYC’s UWNYC’s B2B B2B and communication strategies that strengthened UWNYC’s internal business and B2C and brand B2C awareness brand awareness initiatives initiatives and implemented and implemented creativecreative marketing marketing plan and significantly increased annual revenue. and communication and communication strategies strategies that strengthened that strengthened UWNYC’s UWNYC’s internalinternal businessbusiness A native New Yorker, born in Brooklyn, Irish-Underwool has built her plan and plan significantly and significantly increased increased annual annual revenue. revenue. career on serving New York City’s most challenged and underserved comA nativeA New nativeYorker, New Yorker, born inborn Brooklyn, in Brooklyn, Irish-Underwool Irish-Underwool has built hasher built her munities. “It is a privilege to bring my experience and local-market insights career on career serving on serving New York NewCity’s Yorkmost City’schallenged most challenged and underserved and underserved com- comto the MetroPlusHealth team in support of the plan’s mission of inclusive, munities. munities.

“It is a privilege “It is a privilege to bringtomy bring experience my experience and local-market and local-market insightsinsights customer-centered, quality-driven care,” said Ms. Irish-Underwood. to the MetroPlusHealth to the MetroPlusHealth team inteam support in support of the plan’s of the mission plan’s mission of inclusive, of inclusive, “Lesleigh has that rare combination of strategic thinking, creativity, and customer-centered, customer-centered, quality-driven quality-driven care,” said care,” Ms.said Irish-Underwood.

Ms. Irish-Underwood. management expertise needed to lead the next stage of our brand evolu“Lesleigh “Lesleigh has thathas rare that combination rare combination of strategic of strategic thinking, thinking, creativity, creativity, and and tion,” said MetroPlusHealth President & CEO Talya Schwartz, MD. “Her talmanagement management expertise expertise neededneeded to lead to thelead next thestage nextofstage our of brand our evolubrand evoluents will enable MetroPlusHealth to play an even greater role in the health tion,” said tion,” MetroPlusHealth said MetroPlusHealth President President & CEO & Talya CEOSchwartz, Talya Schwartz, MD. “Her MD. tal“Her taland wellness of all New Yorkers.” ents willents enable will enable MetroPlusHealth MetroPlusHealth to play to anplay evenan greater even greater role in role the health in the health She is a member of the CMO Council’s North American Advisory Board— and wellness and wellness of all New of all Yorkers.”

New Yorkers.” comprised of prominent marketing executives and thought leaders from a She is aShe member is a member of the CMO of theCouncil’s CMO Council’s North American North American Advisory Advisory Board—Board— diverse range of industries—the Brooklyn Tech Alumni Foundation Board, comprised comprised of prominent of prominent marketing marketing executives executives and thought and thought leaders leaders from a from a and Brooklyn Community Board 5. A graduate of Stony Brook University, she diverse diverse range of range industries—the of industries—the Brooklyn Brooklyn Tech Alumni Tech Alumni Foundation Foundation Board, Board, was named one of The Network Journal’s 25 Most Influential Black Women and Brooklyn and Brooklyn Community Community Board 5.Board A graduate 5. A graduate of StonyofBrook StonyUniversity, Brook University, she she in Business in 2018. was named was named one of The one of Network The Network Journal’s Journal’s 25 Most25Influential Most Influential Black Women Black Women in Business in Business in 2018.in 2018.

F FF

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala American Woman Heads Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala World Trade Organization American American WomanWoman Heads Heads World Trade WorldOrganization Trade Organization

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ormer Nigerian finance minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been confirmed as the director-general of the World Trade Organization, after ormer Nigerian ormer Nigerian financefinance ministerminister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been hasconbeen conU.S. President Joe Biden’s administration expressed “strong support” firmed firmed as the director-general as the director-general of the World of the Trade WorldOrganization, Trade Organization, after after for her candidacy.

U.S. President U.S. President Joe Biden’s Joe Biden’s administration administration expressed expressed “strong“strong support” support” “Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings a wealth of knowledge in economics and interfor her for candidacy. her candidacy. national diplomacy,” the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said in a “Dr. Okonjo-Iweala “Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings abrings wealtha of wealth knowledge of knowledge in economics in economics and interand interstatement. “The Biden-Harris Administration looks forward to working with nationalnational diplomacy,” diplomacy,” the Office the of Office the U.S. of the Trade U.S. Representative Trade Representative said in said a in a a new WTO director general to find paths forward to achieve necessary substatement. statement.

“The Biden-Harris “The Biden-Harris Administration Administration looks forward looks forward to working to working with with stantive and procedural reform of the WTO,” USTR said. “Grateful for the a new WTO a newdirector WTO director generalgeneral to find to paths findforward paths forward to achieve to achieve necessary necessary sub- subexpression of support from the US today,” Okonjo-Iweala tweeted. stantivestantive and procedural and procedural reform reform of the WTO,” of the WTO,” USTR said.

USTR “Grateful said. “Grateful for the for the U.S. support was crucial, since the director general of WTO is chosen expression expression of support of support from the from US the today,” US today,” Okonjo-Iweala Okonjo-Iweala tweeted.tweeted. by consensus among the organization’s 164 member states. Okonjo-Iweala U.S. support U.S. support was crucial, was crucial, since the since director the director generalgeneral of WTO of isWTO chosen is chosen would be the first woman to lead WTO since its inception in 1995. by consensus by consensus among among the organization’s the organization’s 164 member 164 member states. Okonjo-Iweala states. Okonjo-Iweala Former President Donald Trump’s administration had blocked Okonwould be would the first be the woman first woman to lead to WTO leadsince WTOitssince inception its inception in 1995.in 1995. jo-Iweala’s candidacy in October, although a WTO selection panel had recFormerFormer President President DonaldDonald Trump’sTrump’s administration administration had blocked had blocked Okon- Okonommended her for the director-general post. jo-Iweala’s jo-Iweala’s candidacy candidacy in October, in October, although although a WTOaselection WTO selection panel had panel rec-had recOkonjo-Iweala served as Nigeria’s foreign minister and as Nigeria’s fiommended ommended her for her the for director-general the director-general post. post. nance minister twice. She worked at the World Bank for 25 years, becoming Okonjo-Iweala Okonjo-Iweala served served as Nigeria’s as Nigeria’s foreignforeign ministerminister and as and Nigeria’s as Nigeria’s fifimanaging director. nance minister nance minister twice. She twice. worked She worked at the World at the Bank Worldfor Bank 25 years, for 25becoming years, becoming Living mostly in the United States since 1973 when she came to study at managing managing director. director.

Harvard, Okonjo-Iweala became a U.S. citizen in 2019.

Living mostly Living in mostly the United in the United States since States1973 sincewhen 1973she when came shetocame studytoatstudy at Harvard, Harvard, Okonjo-Iweala Okonjo-Iweala becamebecame a U.S. citizen a U.S. in citizen 2019.in 2019.

The Positive Community March 2021

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“Together with Governor Phil Murphy and Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli, medical experts and other local partners, we’ve set up a top-notch vaccine distribution program. Safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines are helping us save lives and begin to get life back to normal.”

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

Putting Essex County’s Health First Important COVID-19 Vaccine Information

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura Essex County Board of Commissioners

Vaccine supply is limited. As more vaccines are delivered, we will be able to increase the number of available vaccination appointments and expand vaccine eligibility per New Jersey State guidelines.

The vaccine requires two doses. When you sign-up, you will receive two appointments. It is critical that you attend both appointments.

Reside Residents will be asked to provide their medical insurance information. Their insurance provider will be billed $16.94 for the rst dose and $28.39 for the second dose. If a resident does not have insurance, the cost of the vaccine will be covered by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund. There will be no out-of-pocket expenses charged to residents.

Visit EssexCOVID.org or call 973-877-8456 to check your eligibility and to make an appointment.

Information is available in other languages.

Essex County Vaccination Centers Kmart West Orange 235 Prospect Ave. West Orange, NJ 07052 Municipalities Served: Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Montclair, Newark, Nutley, Verona & West Orange

Essex County College 303 University Ave. Newark, NJ 07102

Municipalities Served: Belleville, East Orange, Irvington, Newark & Orange

Essex County Donald M. Payne, Sr. School of Technology 498-544 W. Market St. Newark, NJ 07105

West Caldwell Tech 620 Passaic Ave. West Caldwell, NJ 07006 Municipalities Served: Bloommeld, Caldwell, Fairreld, Glen Ridge, Newark, North Caldwell, Roseland & West Caldwell For Information in Other Languages: EssexCOVID.org

Municipalities Served: East Orange, Irvington, Newark, & Orange

Livingston Mall (Sears) 112 Eisenhower Pkwy.

Livingston, NJ 07039 Municipalities Served: Belleville, Livingston, Millburn, Maplewood, Newark, Orange & South Orange

Health ideas for wellness

A Pitch to the People Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Photo: Raymond Hagans

L–R: Bishop Rudy Carlton, Deborah Fraizer Howe, Rev. Glenn Wilson, Rev. David Jefferson, Sr., Rev. H. Grady James.

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early a dozen churches in New Jersey’s largest city are part of an initiative urging the community to get the COVID-19 vaccine. It was part of a kickoff for what will be New Jersey’s first and largest faith-based vaccination center in the city. The primary goal is to increase the rate of vaccinations within the Black community, which have been lagging significantly behind statewide. African Americans account for fewer than 4% of those already vaccinated.

“I didn’t want anything to do with it. I didn’t want to get it at all,” Pastor Max Johnson said. But on Monday, Johnson rolled up his sleeve and got his first dose of the vaccine. When asked what changed his mind Johnson said, “My apostolic overseer. He www.thepositivecommunity.com

said he already had the shot and I trust him with my life.”

The vaccination site is a collaborative effort with community leaders and the Choose Healthy Life Black Clergy Action Plan — a nationwide initiative focused on addressing COVID-19 and other health disparities in the Black community. Ten Newark churches have partnered with Saint James Health to offer the vaccine every Wednesday.

Getting the word out is one challenge. The other is supply. “We have been demanding that we would get more vaccine,” said Rev. David Jefferson, pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church. “At this time, we have a thousand people in the queue and as we get the vaccines, we schedule them for appointments,” explained

Nicole Fields, president and CEO of Saint James Health. The faithbased vaccination program will take place at Metropolitan Baptist Church’s Willing Heart Community Care Center.

The plan is to spread the word through church services, social media, and knocking on doors. “Taking the vaccine is better than getting COVID,” is Rev. Jefferson’s pitch to the people in Newark.

Combating misinformation on the vaccine, whether it be coming from social media or word of mouth, is what faith leaders say they are going to zero in on in the next couple of weeks with a campaign that will involve knocking on doors and using various social media platforms to get their message out.

March 2021 The Positive Community

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Darrell K Terry, Sr., President & CEO of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children's Hospital of New Jersey

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. on the COVID Fight Frontline

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L–R: Essex County Sheriff Armando B. Fontorua; Darryl Terry, Newark Beth Israel Hospital; DeVincenzo; and Hon. William Payne. Rev. Joe Carter receives vaccine.

nder DiVincenzo, a partnership with Essex County’s urban clergy works to encourage residents in Black and Brown communities to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Black ministers from Newark, East Orange, and Bloomfield have been with DiVincenzo on the frontline to create vaccine outreach opportunities for their Essex County communities. Clergy members included Rev. Dr. Joseph Hooper and Theresa Hooper from St. Luke AME Church in Newark; Rev. Dr. Kimberly Credit from Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church in Newark; Ruling Elder Warren McNeil from the Newark Presbytery; Rev. Margo Barnes and Pastor Joe Carter from New Hope Baptist Church in Newark; and Rev. Jerry Carter, Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown.

“We want to make sure anyone who wants to take the vaccine has access to it when their turn is called,” said DiVincenzo. “People hold their religious leaders in high regard and often turn to their faith leaders for direction when they have concerns about things happening in their communities.

“When COVID struck, Essex County was the hardest hit of New Jersey’s counties. It set us back,” said DiVincenzo. “Now, we’re on the rebound.” Essex County is operating five major vaccination sites in Newark, Livingston, West Orange, and West Caldwell. Since January 2021, Essex County has administered 87,000 first doses and 47,000 second doses. Now, the COVID vaccine oneshot dose developed by New Jersey’s Johnson & Johnson will be utilized in the county.

“I want to work with all the senior buildings in the urban centers with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine,” said DiVincenzo. “It's easier to vaccinate seniors with one shot than by going back for two shots. Seniors are thrilled to be getting the vaccine.”

To assist county residents affected by COVID economically, Essex County has instituted several programs. The Essex County Coronavirus Mortgage Assistance Program assists homeowners with mortgage payments if there is a

24

The Positive Community March 2021

loss of income due to the COVID pandemic. The $9 million Essex County Small Business Lease Emergency Assistance Grant helps small businesses and non-profit agencies in the county negatively impacted by the Coronavirus pay their rent. The Emergency Food Distribution gives away 1,000 boxes of food each Thursday and 1,500 meals daily to elderly and disabled housebound residents. In addition, Essex County clergy receive 750 boxes of food.

There was even an Essex County collaboration with Lyft to deliver food to seniors at home.

“The coronavirus has created uncertainty and unforeseen challenges for us all. We hope this emergency food distribution helps those families who are struggling,” said DiVincenzo.

A lifelong Essex County resident, DiVincenzo was born in Newark; he attended Jersey City State College. Prior to entering politics, he held jobs in public service in Essex County as a parks supervisor, teacher, and athletics coordinator. First elected in 1990 to the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, “Joey D” as he is affectionately known, became Essex County Executive in 2002.

Photos: Raymond Hagans

BY FERN GILLESPIE

Rev. Joe Carter, Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church, Newark, NJ www.thepositivecommunity.com

People look up to Queen Latifah and all that she has accomplished professionally.

By partnering with her, we are hoping to demonstrate to residents in our urban areas how safe getting the vaccination is.

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he world-renowned star from Essex County, Queen Latifah, sat in a folding chair at Essex Community College in her Newark hometown recently and received her first shot of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

The superstar brought her star power to support the urgency of getting the COVID vaccine into the arms of Essex County residents.

Born Dana Owens and raised in Newark and East Orange by an Irvington High School art teacher mom and a Newark police officer father, the Grammywinning, Oscar-nominated actress and singer is back home in Newark producing and starring in her hit CBS television series The Equalizer.

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and Newark native Queen Latifah

“People look up to Queen Latifah and all that she has accomplished professionally,” stated Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. “By partnering with her, we are hoping to demonstrate to residents in our urban areas how safe getting the vaccination is.”

H

aving grown up around Branch Brook Park, DiVincenzo holds a special fondness for the beautiful cherry blossom trees lining the park. Forget Washington, D.C.’s cherry blossoms, this park has the largest cherry tree collection in the U.S. Each year, the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the 2,700 Japanese cherry trees that burst into spectacular full bloom in April. The annual Bloomfest, which attracts thousands of visitors for runs, rides, and recreation, could not be held this year due to COVID restrictions. However, a ride through the park is still a marvelous experience.

“When we had the festival, it would be a two-week event that would attract hundreds of thousands of visitors,” said DiVincenzo. “I believe in 2022, the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival will be coming back strong.”

Just like Essex County.

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March 2021 The Positive Community

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A Young Heart Transplant Recipient’s Baby Born During the Height of COVID-19

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ladis, 36, speaks softly but that doesn’t mean she shrinks from addressing tough topics. When she met her future husband Gilmer, she told him up front, “if you want a family, I’m not the right person for you.” She was born with a congenital heart disease called cardiomyopathy, the same disease that took her father’s life in his early 30s.

She might have met with the same fate if not for the intervention of the Advanced Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant team at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBI) where she received a lifesaving heart transplant in 2015.

With her new heart came new hope. In 2019, Gladis found out she was expecting! Together with Natalia Hochbaum, MD, her advanced heart failure cardiologist at NBI and Martin Gimovsky, MD, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist also at NBI, Gladis’ risks were closely managed and she enjoyed an uneventful pregnancy.

The risk no one could have foreseen was the arrival of the COVID-19 in New Jersey in the spring of 2020, right when she was due.

When Gladis arrived at NBI in May of 2020 to give birth, she stayed in NBI’s newly renovated maternity suite. Because she was immunosuppressed, she faced an extreme risk of contracting the virus and its complications. The hospital took every precaution to protect Gladis, including having her wear a mask during labor.

Gladis was monitored closely afterwards to make sure she didn’t develop symptoms that might indicate heart failure. “Women with significant cardiovascular disease are at great risk after the delivery,” Dr. Gimovsky notes.

During her daughter’s first hours of life, her husband was instructed not to leave their private room. The new mom knows it was the care she got at NBI that helped ensure a positive outcome. “With the transplant,” she says, “they opened up a new life for me. Now I feel normal, and that makes me feel that I can do anything.”

As for baby Natalia? She soon will be celebrating her first birthday!

Besides you, the greatest Besides you, the greatest Besides you, the greatest care your your baby can receive. care baby can receive. your baby can receive.

Our maternity unit features all private rooms and a Level IV NICU. Our aa Level IVIV NICU. Our maternity maternityunit unitfeatures featuresall allprivate privaterooms roomsand and Level NICU. Bringing a new baby into the world is one of life’s most powerful experiences. At Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, it’s also a Bringing aone. newOur baby into the world maternity is one of life’s most powerful experiences.

At Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, it’sfull also a personal state-of-the-art private rooms to heal bond with your newborn, with Bringing a new baby into the world is one ofunit life’sfeatures most powerful experiences.

Atand Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, it’scouplet also a personal one.

Our state-of-the-art maternity unit features private rooms to heal and bond with your newborn, with full couplet care so you can be state-of-the-art together at all times.

With one the state’s onlyrooms two Level IV NICUs, we’re wellyour prepared to care forfull your baby. personal one.

Our maternity unit of features private to heal and bond with newborn, with couplet care so you can bebirthing together at all times.

With one of the you’ll state’senjoy only two Level IV NICUs, we’re well prepared for your baby.

And our classes support groups, the same level of care, too.

Learn moreto atcare rwjbh.org/maternity care through so you can be together at alland times.

With one of the state’s only two Level IV NICUs, we’re well prepared to care for your baby.

And through our birthing classes and support groups, you’ll enjoy the same level of care, too. Learn more at rwjbh.org/maternity And through our birthing classes and support groups, you’ll enjoy the same level of care, too. Learn more at rwjbh.org/maternity

We’ve taken every precaution, including COVID-19 screenings, temperature checks and mandatory masks, We’ve taken every precaution, including COVID-19 screenings, to ensure the safest environment fortemperature your baby’schecks health.and mandatory masks, We’ve taken every precaution, including COVID-19 screenings, checks and mandatory masks, to ensure the safest environment for yourtemperature baby’s health. to ensure the safest environment for your baby’s health.

HOLY NAME MEDICAL CENTER

Breakthrough COVID-19 Antibody Therapy is at Holy Name Timing is critical so act quickly if you test positive

An interview with Thomas Birch, MD Medical Director, Institute for Clinical Research and Chair of Infection Prevention

Thomas Birch, MD, discusses monoclonal antibody therapy at Holy Name on NBC’s TODAY show.

Holy Name Medical Center was the first in the world to treat a COVID-positive patient with monoclonal antibody therapy in June 2020. Tell us about this breakthrough therapy.

This therapy comprises antibodies developed in a lab from antibodies made by COVID-19 patients. They allow the patient’s immune system to clear the virus, reducing the risk of hospitalizations and death by 87 percent. I join my esteemed Holy Name colleague, Dr. Robert Adair, in recommending this life-saving therapy to communities of color, who have been disproportionately affected by COVID. How does a person qualify for this therapy?

You must have at least one symptom of COVID-19, have a positive test result, AND be at increased risk for complications of the infection, according to these requirements of the FDA: • Diabetes • Chronic kidney disease • Immune disorder or immunosuppressive treatment • Obesity (BMI of 35 or above) • Age 65 or older • Age 55 or older with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, COPD or chronic lung disease

What is the procedure to receive this therapy?

You must act quickly as the antibodies work best when given in the first two to five days after you experience a symptom and test positive. However, they may be given up to 10 days. If you need to be tested, call 201-833-3313 to schedule one in our walk-up/drivethrough testing center. Tell the scheduler you need a same-day test to qualify for the antibodies. If your test is positive, you will be contacted by Holy Name’s telemedicine service to be evaluated for the therapy.

If you already have a positive test, ask your healthcare provider to call 201-541-5971 to refer you for this therapy.

How is the therapy given to the patient?

As a one-time outpatient intravenous infusion lasting one hour, followed by another hour of observation.

You will use a pulse oximeter to monitor the oxygen in your blood at home. Our nurse practitioners will check your progress with telephone monitoring.

We are thrilled to provide this remarkable breakthrough therapy for our community.

Please note that monoclonal antibody therapy is used to treat COVID-19 infection.

It is not the vaccine, which is used to prevent infection.

Ask your healthcare provider to call 201-541-5971 to refer you for this therapy.

718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666

Health care from anywhere Can’t get to a health care provider right now? Holy Name has you covered with North Jersey Telemedicine. You get the care you need, right from home—or wherever you may be. Not sure if it’s allergies or a cold? Worried that scrape or burn might be infected? Need a medication refill? Our primary care and specialty physicians and nurse practitioners are ready to see you, safely and conveniently.

NORTH JERSEY

TELEMEDICINE P O W E R E D B Y H O LY N A M E

Visit NorthJerseyTelemedicine.com to learn more and link to a Holy Name telemedicine provider.

Holy Name Medical Center 718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 - Tel: (201) 833-3000 Copyright © 2020 Holy Name Medical Center, All rights reserved.

What Young Adults Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer

BY DR. MEGHA KOTHARI GASTROENTEROLOGIST AND DIRECTOR OF WOMEN’S HEALTH NEWYORK-PRESBYTERIAN BROOKLYN METHODIST HOSPITAL

C

olorectal cancer is the third most prevalent and lethal cancer for both men and women in the United States. Most cases of colorectal cancer are found in people 50 and over. But there has been a sharp increase of colorectal cancer in adults as young as their 20s and 30s, with the proportion of cases found in adults under 50 increasing to 11 percent in 2013, up from 6 percent in 1990, according to the American Cancer Society.

“The myth that colon cancer is an old person’s disease must be dispelled, as the increasing rate of colorectal cancer among younger adults is now proven.” said Dr. Megha Kothari, gastroenterologist

and director of Women’s Health at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, located in Park Slope. “Physicians and researchers are still working to figure out the root cause of this alarming increase, but what we do know for sure is that regular cancer screenings and healthy lifestyle habits can go a long way in lowering one’s risk.”

In honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, Dr. Kothari shared recommendations to encourage and educate individuals, especially younger adults and African Americans (who have heightened risk for colorectal cancer), to make their colon health a priority and practice healthier lifestyle habits.

Dr. Kothari advises: Know the signs— Colon cancer often has no symptoms in its earliest stages. However, there are some red flags you can be on the lookout for, including, changes in bowel habits for more than a few days (constipation, diarrhea or incontinence), rectal bleeding, traces of blood in the stool, abdominal pain or cramping, weakness, fatigue, decreased appetite and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore the signs, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Know the risks— Risk factors for colorectal cancer include age as well as lifestyle habits. A diet high in red meat and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as obesity, tobacco, and heavy alcohol use, are all predisposed to developing the disease. A sedentary lifestyle as well as having inflammatory bowel disease may also put you at greater risk.

Know your family history— An estimated 5% to 10% percent of colon cancers occur as a direct result of heredity, which means it is crucial to understand your family health history. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with a history of colon cancer or adenomatous polyps, you should begin screening at least 10 years prior to the youngest family incidence.

Take preventive steps— Colon cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancers. Exercise regularly; eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein; and maintain a healthy weight. Limit your alcohol intake, and do not smoke or use tobacco products. Talk openly with your doctor about any health concerns or worrisome digestive symptoms, and ask about the best age to begin colon cancer screening.

Get screened— Colon cancer screening saves lives! Most people need to start their screening at age 45, or earlier if they have risk factors. There are different types of colorectal cancer screening tests available, in addition to a colonoscopy, there are stool based tests that can be done at home.

For more information on colon cancer screenings, prevention, and care at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital please visit: https://www.nyp.org/brooklyn/digestive-and-liver-disorders/colorectal-cancer/screening-and-prevention —Source: NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

regina Fleming: living her Best liFe A Life of Service through God and the Sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

By R.L. Witter www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2021 The Positive Community

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R

egina egina Fleming’s Fleming’s petite petite stature stature belies belies her her status status as as aa giant giant in in photography. photography. Her Her smile smile and and upbeat upbeat egina Fleming’s petite stature belies her status as a giant in photography. Her smile and upbeat greeting greeting convey convey sweetness sweetness and and light. light. Her Her natural natural beauty beauty coupled coupled with with her her impeccable impeccable flair flair for for fashion fashion greeting convey sweetness and light. Her natural beauty coupled with her impeccable flair for fashion and and style style will will definitely definitely garner garner aa second second look; look; but but it’s it’s the the heart heart and and mind mind of of aa champion champion that that will will leave leave and style will definitely garner a second look; but it’s the heart and mind of a champion that will leave an an indelible indelible impression impression on on you. you. an indelible impression on you.

It’s It’s perfectly perfectly apropos apropos then then that that II began began our our conversation conversation with with an an exclamation exclamation of, of, “That “That photo photo of of you you in in that that cape cape It’s perfectly apropos then that I began our conversation with an exclamation of, “That photo of you in that cape isisEVERYTHING!!”

EVERYTHING!!”Regina ReginaFleming, Fleming,simply simplyput, put,isiseverything. everything.She’s She’saarespected respectedbusinesswoman; businesswoman;aabeloved beloveddaughter, daughter, is EVERYTHING!!” Regina Fleming, simply put, is everything. She’s a respected businesswoman; a beloved daughter, sister, sister,aunt, aunt,cousin, cousin,and andfriend friendto tomany. many.She’s She’saaworld worldtraveler travelerand andaaliteral literalglobetrotter globetrotteras asaaworld-class world-classathlete athleterunning running sister, aunt, cousin, and friend to many. She’s a world traveler and a literal globetrotter as a world-class athlete running marathons marathonsacross acrossAmerica Americaand andthe theglobe. globe.She’s She’sbeen beenthere, there,done donethat, that,and andsnapped snappedaaphoto photoof ofit, it,too. too.Her Herjourney journeyhas has marathons across America and the globe. She’s been there, done that, and snapped a photo of it, too. Her journey has taken taken her her around around the the world, world, and and much much of of itit can can be be traced traced back back to to aa storied storied group group of of women women she she admired admired as as aa child. child. taken her around the world, and much of it can be traced back to a storied group of women she admired as a child.

She She made made itit her her mission mission to to become become one one of of them. them.

She made it her mission to become one of them.

“I “Igrew grewup upin inthe theBaptist Baptistchurch,” church,”she sheexplained. explained.FlemFlem“I grew up in the Baptist church,” she explained. Fleming ing recalls recalls being being aa toddler toddler at at First First Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Far Far ing recalls being a toddler at First Baptist Church of Far Rockaway Rockaway in in Queens.

Queens. “All “All the the women women there there dressed dressed up up Rockaway in Queens. “All the women there dressed up and andthey theywere wereso sosmart, smart,intelligent, intelligent,well-spoken well-spokenand andbeaubeauand they were so smart, intelligent, well-spoken and beautiful. tiful. II looked looked up up to to them them and and wondered, wondered, ‘Who ‘Who are are these these tiful. I looked up to them and wondered, ‘Who are these women?’” women?’”Church Churchwas wasaabig bigpart partof ofFleming’s Fleming’slife. life.She Shewas was women?’” Church was a big part of Fleming’s life. She was in in the the little little choir, choir, an an enthusiastic enthusiastic participant participant in in Sunday Sunday in the little choir, an enthusiastic participant in Sunday school, school, and and was was even even the the Sunday Sunday school school treasurer. treasurer. school, and was even the Sunday school treasurer.

“That’s “That’swhen when II first first heard heard about about it” it” she she recalled. recalled.

“That’s when I first heard about it” she recalled.

“It” “It” was was Alpha Alpha Kappa Kappa Alpha Alpha Sorority, Sorority, Inc. Inc. (AKA) (AKA) and and “It” was Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA) and once onceAKA AKAwas wason onFleming’s Fleming’sradar, radar,ititnever neverleft. left.She Shespoke spoke once AKA was on Fleming’s radar, it never left. She spoke with those those women women and and learned learned they they were were members members of of aa with with those women and learned they were members of a sorority. She She knew knew there there were were other other Black Black sororities sororities so so sorority. sorority. She knew there were other Black sororities so she did did her her research research and and found found that that AKA AKA was was the the first first she she did her research and found that AKA was the first Blacksorority sororityand andtheir theirmission missionwas was“to “tobe beof ofservice serviceto toall all Black Black sorority and their mission was “to be of service to all mankind.” Fleming Fleming began began volunteering volunteering at at aa local local hospihospimankind.” mankind.” Fleming began volunteering at a local hospitalwhen whenshe shewas was14 14years yearsold oldand andat atage age15 15won wonthe the“Sum“Sumtal tal when she was 14 years old and at age 15 won the “Summer mer Volunteer Volunteer of of the the Year” Year” award. award. When When she she began began her her mer Volunteer of the Year” award. When she began her college college career career at at St. St. John’s John’s University University and and realized realized there there college career at St. John’s University and realized there was was an an AKA AKA chapter chapter on on campus campus she she exclaimed, exclaimed, “This “This was an AKA chapter on campus she exclaimed, “This isis IT!!”

IT!!” and and set set the the wheels wheels in in motion motion to to become become one one of of is IT!!” and set the wheels in motion to become one of those thosebeautiful, beautiful,intelligent, intelligent,well-spoken, well-spoken,and andwell-dressed well-dressed those beautiful, intelligent, well-spoken, and well-dressed women she she so so venerated venerated for for many many years. years. “You “You know know how how women women she so venerated for many years. “You know how you admire admire someone someone and and then then you you see see them them and and think, think, you you admire someone and then you see them and think, ‘Wow, there there they they are!’ are!’ and and then then II attended attended their their rush rush ‘Wow, ‘Wow, there they are!’ and then I attended their rush andthat’s that’s how how itit began,” began,” she she recalled. recalled. and and that’s how it began,” she recalled.

Alpha Kappa Kappa Alpha Alpha Sorority, Sorority, Inc. Inc. was was founded founded on on Alpha Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was founded on Howard University’s University’s campus campus in in 1908.

1908. The The group group of of nine nine Howard Howard University’s campus in 1908. The group of nine seniors seniors and and seven seven juniors juniors understood understood their their privilege privilege as as seniors and seven juniors understood their privilege as African-American African-American women women being being college college educated educated only only African-American women being college educated only one one generation generation after after the the end end of of slavery. slavery. They They were were deterdeterone generation after the end of slavery. They were determined minedto touse usetheir theirprivilege privilegeand andtheir theirbond bondof offriendship friendship mined to use their privilege and their bond of friendship to toform forman anorganization organizationfor forBlack Blackwomen womento totake taketheir theirtaltalto form an organization for Black women to take their talents entsand andskills skillsback backto totheir theirhometowns hometownsand andunderserved underserved ents and skills back to their hometowns and underserved communities communities in in an an effort effort to to make make aa real real difference. difference. communities in an effort to make a real difference.

Today, Today, AKA AKA members members focus focus on on issues issues such such as as women’s women’s Today, AKA members focus on issues such as women’s health health and and wellness wellness and and supporting supporting the the arts. arts. health and wellness and supporting the arts.

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Fleming leads leads aa full full life life as as aa photographer photographer who who travtravFleming Fleming leads a full life as a photographer who travels the the globe globe visiting visiting exotic exotic locales locales to to capture capture spectacuspectacuels els the globe visiting exotic locales to capture spectacular weddings. weddings. While While professional professional accolades, accolades, friends, friends, and and lar lar weddings. While professional accolades, friends, and familytake takecenterstage centerstagein inher herlife, life,so sodoes doesher herAKA AKAmemmemfamily family take centerstage in her life, so does her AKA membership.In Inaddition additionto tomarking markingspecial specialoccasions occasionsof ofwedwedbership. bership. In addition to marking special occasions of weddings, births, births, graduations, graduations, and and the the like, like, many many highlights highlights dings, dings, births, graduations, and the like, many highlights of Fleming’s Fleming’s life life are are aa result result of of her her association association with with and and of of Fleming’s life are a result of her association with and dedication to to her her sorority. sorority. dedication dedication to her sorority.

“The day day II became became aa member member of of AKA, AKA, II already already had had “The “The day I became a member of AKA, I already had twobiological biologicalsisters; sisters;but buton onthat thatday, day,IIgained gainedthousands thousands two two biological sisters; but on that day, I gained thousands of sisters,” sisters,” she she explained. explained. “Now “Now II had had this this whole whole system system of of sisters,” she explained. “Now I had this whole system ofsisters sisterseverywhere. everywhere.That Thatmoment momentwas wasone oneof ofthe thegreatgreatof of sisters everywhere. That moment was one of the greatest highlights highlights of of my my entire entire life. life. Also, Also, II was was celebrated celebrated as as est est highlights of my entire life. Also, I was celebrated as Silver Star Star for for 25 25 years years of of membership. membership. We We had had pomp pomp aa Silver a Silver Star for 25 years of membership. We had pomp

cont’d cont’d on on next next page page cont’d on next page

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REGINA FLEMING cont’d from previous page

and circumstance and were acknowledged for all of our service in AKA. It was unforgettable.” Another memorable and intensely emotional occasion was welcoming her niece into the sorority. “I brought in my legacy. My niece has grown up with me and the day I got to bring her into the sisterhood was extremely special. I experienced such pride — it was beyond anything I could ever describe.

Now, we’re not only auntie and niece; we’re sorors.”

Passionate about mentoring young ladies, Fleming has enjoyed speaking to high school students and taking young girls on various outings sponsored by the AKAs. “We allow those young ladies to see all of the possibilities they can be… There are so many different ways you can be of service and for me, mentoring young ladies is what I was put on this earth to do. I recall taking a group of young ladies to see Lupita Nyong’o in Eclipse on Broadway, and they made the announcement the understudy would be playing Lupita’s role for that performance,” she said.

“I saw their young faces drop to the floor so I said I’d take them to the side door after the show to get autographs on our Playbills. Well, there was no Lupita, but Oprah Winfrey came out and she came over to my 20 girls and greeted us! They’ll never forget that.”

Melding two passions together has offered Fleming the extraordinary experience of being the North-Atlantic Region regional photographer for Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. “I know one of the things I was put on this earth to do is photograph the history of Black people, but especially Black women. I’ve always loved those black and white photos of our grandparents and great-grandparents whether dressed up for Sunday church or just sitting on a Harlem stoop. And now, I became the person documenting the history of the women of my region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for four years and I have thousands and thousands of photos.” The new regional director asked Fleming to remain involved in the organization’s official photography, so she did. “We changed it to the AKArazzi. I have a vice-chair working with me and we have other photographers who are our eyes and ears and report back to us.”

As an AKA, Fleming has also been able to incorporate her love of fashion into the service the organization does.

“We take pillow cases and decorate them in the way only us AKAs can,” she chuckled. “Then, I sit with my sorors in www.thepositivecommunity.com

their 20s all the way up to their 90s and we sew by hand and on machines so we can make dresses. And we send those dresses to Haiti. We also partner with Soles4Souls to donate gently-used shoes to people all around the world who don’t have shoes to wear. I have walked into rooms where there are boxes of shoes piled from floor to ceiling, filling the entire room. It’s an incredible feeling to be a part of that.” She’s also proud to serve people closer to home. “When we gave out turkeys in Harlem and people came up to me saying, ‘Thank you, Miss. Thank you!’—those moments change lives. WE change lives.”

Fleming reflected upon her introduction to AKA, Inc. through the women she admired at her church.

“These are the two places where you have everything,” she said. “You have women fresh out school, women who own their own businesses, women who are corporate leaders, and everything in between. Stay-at-home-mothers, doctors, lawyers, retirees, and the vice president of the United States of America can all be in one room, sharing their passion for being of service.

How powerful is that?”

The excitement of having Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris as a soror certainly is not lost on Fleming. While she has yet to meet or photograph her personally, she looks forward to the possibility of the opportunity. “I never thought I couldn’t be anything I wanted to be, but having a Black woman and soror holding that office—the fact that I am alive to experience this!” She chuckled and squealed before adding, “I’m sure Black women all over the world are applying to law school in droves and seeking membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. right now.”

Between her youthful, good looks and the excitement, awe, and reverence with which she speaks of her sorority and her sorority sisters, one might easily mistake Fleming for a new member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. However, having reached Silver status and 25 years in the organization, Fleming is looking forward to her next AKA milestone of Gold status—50 years of sisterhood and service. Just as she runs marathon races around the world, she’s going to go the distance with her sorority sisters. Now a member of Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, Regina Fleming is accomplished, well-dressed, beautiful, and well-spoken; young girls in the congregation admire her. As a child she made it her mission to become one of those women. Mission accomplished.

March 2021 The Positive Community

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Meisha Porter Born, Bread and Educated in NYC New York City Public Education the art + science of learning Schools’ Newest Chancellor Born in Queens, New York and comes from a family of educators. She was

New York City Public Schools raised by a single mother who returned to school to finish her degree and Have a New Chancellor become an educator herself; her

upbringing has taught her the power

Meisha Porter: Born, Bred, of public education, and the difference And Educated In NYC one teacher can make.

MM

ayor Bill deayor Blasio Por- Meisha York and comes from a family of educators. She was raised Billhasde appointed Blasio hasMeisha appointed ter—a NewPorter— York City public school graduate a single mother who returned to school to finish her a New York City public schoolby graduand 20-yearate veteran who has led at every level in degree and 20-year veteran who has led at every and become an educator herself; her upbringing he system—the next Chancellor of New City public hasYork taught her the power of public education, and the diflevel in the system—the nextYork chancellor of New hools, and the first Black woman to serve in the role. ference City public schools, and the first Black woman to serve one teacher can make. orter succeeds A. Carranza. first A.person in the Richard role. Porter succeeds The Richard Carranza. Porter The left her position as Bronx Executive Superintenppointed first fromperson within appointed DOE leadership in recent histodent, leading community school districts 7-12 and New Vifrom within DOE leadership , she takes the helm of the largest school district in the sions Affinity schools, covering the entire borough’s 361 in recent history, she took the helm of the largest nation on school March 15 “Today is an historic day for New York schools district in the nation on March 15. “Today is an and 235,448 students. She started her career as ity schools.

Meisha is aYork homegrown NewMeisha Yorker Porter a youth historic dayPorter for New City schools. is a organizer in Highbridge, and joined the Departho knowshomegrown what it takesNew to give every kid the high quality ment of Education (DOE) as a teacher at the Bronx School Yorker who knows what it takes to give ublic school education they deserve,” said Mayor Bill de for Law, every kid the high quality public school education they Government, and Justice, a school she helped lasio.” deserve,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.” conceive and found. After 18 years at the school, where “As a lifelong New Yorker, a product of our City’s public became Principal, she spent three years as Superin“As a lifelong New Yorker, a product of ourshe City’s hools, and a career educator, it is the honor of my lifetime tendent public schools, and a career educator, it is the honor of District 11, which served the Pelham Parkway, o serve asof Chancellor, “saidtoPorter. in Queens, New Eastchester, and Woodlawn neighborhoods of the Bronx. my lifetime serveBorn as chancellor, “said Porter.

Born in Queens, New York and from a family of educators, she was raised by a single mother who returned to school to finish her degree and become an educator herself. Her upbringing taught her the power of public education, and the difference one teacher can make.

Porter left her position as Bronx executive superintendent, leading community school districts 7-12 and New Visions Affinity schools, covering the entire borough’s 361 schools and 235,448 students. She started her career as a youth organizer in Highbridge, and joined the Department of Education (DOE) as a teacher at the

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Born in Queens, New York Meisha comes from a family of educators. She was raised by a single mother who returned to school to finish her degree and become an educator herself. Her upbringing taught her the power of public education, and the difference one teacher can make.

Bronx School for Law, Government, and Justice—a school she helped conceive and found. After 18 years at the school, where she became principal, she spent three years as superintendent of District 11, which served the Pelham Parkway, Eastchester, and Woodlawn neighborhoods of the Bronx. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Culture

music, art + literature

I’m glad to be back home, and so excited for the new journey these 50 sisters in ministry are now on.

Union Baptist Church Pastor Rev. Brian D. Scott

Rev. Dr. Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook

$1 Million Grant Helping 50 Women in Ministry THRIVE

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ifty Black women in ministry, from 7 regions, 11 states and 11 denominations will benefit from a $1 million Lilly “Thrive” Grant to the new partnership between Rev. Dr. Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook and her home church, Union Baptist Church in the Village of Harlem, New York. Black women from the tri-state New York area, the DMV, as well as Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Kentucky will be blessed.

While a student at Union Theological Seminary, Cook, then a member of Union Baptist Church in Harlem, chose Union Baptist for her field placement, under the leadership of Dr. Ollie B Wells. Shortly after, the historic Mariners Temple Baptist Church elected her senior pastor and she became the first Black female senior pastor in the American Baptist Church denomination’s 200 year history.

Later she met the Rev. Calvin Presley, a United Methodist pastor, who asked her to lead a new program, the Black Women in Ministry program, funded by the Lilly Endowment, to help advance and place Black women in ministry. Four decades later, in her fortieth year in ministry, she returns home to Union Baptist Church, now pastored by the Rev. Brian D. Scott, who invited her “back home” to partner and lead the 21st century version of this ministry. Together they have received a grant of $1 million to help establish the Black Women in Ministry REAL THRIVE Initiative (R.E.A.L. stands for Relationship building, Equipping and Expanding, Access and

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leadership and Legacy development). It is part of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Thriving in Ministry, an initiative that supports a variety of religious organizations across the nation as they create or strengthen programs that help pastors build relationships with experienced clergy who can serve as mentors and guide them through key leadership challenges in congregational ministry. Together they will have two cohorts of 25 senior pastors/mentors and church planters, who will help 25 of the next generation of Black women church leaders, primarily from the East Coast, and representing 12 different traditions.

Pastor Brian Scott, who now has 10 women in ministry on his staff, says, “We are delighted to welcome our ‘first daughter’ back home in her fortieth year. What a testament of God’s grace and goodness, and we look forward to being good stewards who provide insight and inspiration, as we all grow together in this post-COVID church world.”

“This is truly a blessing and a stained glass ceiling game changer,” said Dr. Cook, “not only for the 50 women who are now advancing, being blessed and being placed and elevated in parish ministries, but we hope it will help many generations who follow. It’s amazing to go from Union (Theological Seminary) to Union (Baptist Church) on this 40 year journey, from field placement to affecting and impacting the world. I’m glad to be back home, and so excited for the new journey these 50 sisters in ministry are now on. We’ve had our first gathering and it’s electric.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

America’s Best Music; a World-Class Sound!

Streaming Live 24/7: “In Classic Black”

Positive Community Radio As Seen in:

“T

he Positive Community has introduced a big deal playlist that roars with good music; there are no categories or distinctions between their flow: Doowop, bebop, hip hop are family members of the Black Diaspora sharing a cultural, historical and spiritual lineage of music. “We want to play all the music old and new,” said COO and co-founder Jean Nash Wells.

“We want our music to influence younger people to broaden their musical palate and get excited about Black music in its many creative forms, as well as older listeners hearing other genres of Black music they wouldn’t ordinarily listen to.” It is a similar concept to Inner-City Broadcasting early on when it owned and operated WBLS-FM known as “The Total Black Experience in Sound,” a catchphrase used by its program director Frankie Crocker. The radio station WWRL-AM was known as The Sound of Soul/Progressive Radio.”

Ron Scott

Music Critic, NY Amsterdam News

Go to: thepositivecommunity.com and click on the RADIO banner to listen and enjoy!

streaming

24/7

First Ladies

Coping in the Pandemic

A

By Glenda Cadogan

s we slowly inch our way out of this COVID-19 pandemic, people are looking for ways to adjust to new norms. One way is to reflect on what it took to get through a year of social isolation, sickness, death, and grief. Braced against the winds of March and Internation-

al Women’s History Month, we spoke with three First Ladies who have been doing extra duty, not just for their minister husbands, but their families, congregations, and communities. In candid conversation, they spoke of the ups and downs they navigate having to be the hand rocking the cradle while wading through uncharted waters of a pandemic plagued world. Their coping methods varied from buying shoes to watching HGTV with family, couples’ time, and family dinners.

The commonality among them revealed one truth—they all grew closer to their husbands in ways that augur well for how they will handle whatever comes next. In saluting them we embrace all of the wives and mothers who are not just the clichéd “good woman behind the good man,” but the unheralded frontline worker for their families and the defensive line for their congregants.

They are the First Ladies!

Take It to The Lord in Prayer Kyla Slaughter Wife of Rev. Dr. Ronald Slaughter

During the months of May and June, the pandemic took its harshest toll on Mrs. Kyla Slaughter, wife of Pastor Ronald Slaughter and First Lady of St. James AME Church in Newark, NJ. “The pan-

38

The Positive Community March 2021

demic has been a very challenging time for me,” she told The Positive Community. Three months into the stay-at-home mandate Mrs. Slaughter was still getting used to helping her three teenaged children acclimate to the new normal of home schooling. A Georgia native, every summer she would take the children to visit her parents who still live there; that didn’t happen last summer.

And though the church was shut, its ministries were still open for business and the First Lady was supporting the congregation in new ways. Last but certainly not least, she was the first and last line of support for her husband of 18 years. “The simple truth is that I was overwhelmed,” she said candidly. “I felt like I was in a deep hole. Though my husband had slowed down, it was never a full stop since he still had duties with the State. To hold it all together, I desperately needed to find some coping mechanism.” One place of personal solace for Mrs. Slaughter was in the words of her favorite hymn: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” “My favorite part is ‘take it to the Lord in prayer.’ And that’s what I did like I never had before,” she said.

Daily journaling, exercise, and mediation completed her self-care package. According to Mrs. Slaughter, sometimes people forget that pastors are people too. But as a wife she could see how it was affecting her husband. Luckily, in his one “breakdown moment” to date, First Lady Slaughwww.thepositivecommunity.com

ter ter was was present present to to comfort comfort him. him. “Recently, “Recently, two two of of his his minminter was present to comfort him.

“Recently, two of his minister ister colleagues colleagues passed passed away away and and their their homegoing homegoing services services ister colleagues passedItaway and their homegoing services were were on on the the same same day. day. It took took aa toll toll on on him. him. At At that that moment. moment. were on the same day.

It took a toll on him.

At that moment. all all II could could think think to to say say to to him him was, was, ‘Let’s ‘Let’s just just stop!’” stop!’” all According I could think to say to him was, ‘Let’s just stop!’”

According to to Mrs. Mrs. Slaughter, Slaughter, the the pandemic pandemic has has certainly certainly According tocloser Mrs. Slaughter,asthe pandemic has certainly brought brought them them closer together together as aa couple couple and and as as aa family. family. brought them closer together as a couple and as a family.

The The fun fun part part has has been been using using retail retail therapy therapy to to their their benefit. benefit.

The fun part has been using retail therapy to their benefit.

“We “We both both love love shopping shopping so so some some days days the the best best escape escape was was to to “We both love shopping so some days the best escape happy was to go go buy buy aa pair pair of of shoes shoes together. together. The The children children are are also also happy go buy a pairaround of shoes together.

The children are also happy to to have have him him around more more than than usual usual and and are are enjoying enjoying playplayto have him around more than usual and are enjoying playtime time with with him. him. However, However, this this is is not not unique unique to to our our family. family. II time with him.

However, this is not unique to our family.

I think think that that though though we we have have had had aa lot lot of of deaths, deaths, the the pandemic pandemic think that though we have had a lot of deaths, the pandemic brought brought families families closer closer together; together; so so those those of of us us who who are are alive alive brought families closer together; so those of us who are alive should should be be grateful. grateful. We We are are going going to to get get through through this this and and in in should be grateful.

We are going to get through this and in the the meantime meantime my my best best advice advice is: is: don’t don’t hold hold on on to to that that stuff stuff the meantime my best advice is: don’t hold on to that stuff that’s that’s burdening burdening you. you. Take Take it it to to the the Lord Lord in in prayer.” prayer.” that’s burdening you. Take it to the Lord in prayer.”

STRENGTH STRENGTH IN IN FAMILY FAMILY TRADITIONS TRADITIONS STRENGTH IN FAMILY TRADITIONS MRS. DIANNE MRS. DIANNE MONROSE MONROSE MRS. OF DIANNE MONROSE WIFE PASTOR GILMAN WIFE OF PASTOR GILMAN T. T. MONROSE MONROSE WIFE OF Dianne PASTORMonrose, GILMANfirst T. MONROSE For Mrs. For Mrs. Dianne Monrose, first lady lady of of the the Zion Zion Church Church of of

For Mrs. DianneEast Monrose, firstBrooklyn, lady of the first Zion Church of God God 7th 7th Day, Day, in in East Flatbush Flatbush Brooklyn, at at first the the hardest hardest God of 7th Day, in East was Flatbush Brooklyn, at first the hardest part the pandemic dealing with the unknown.

“Initialpart of the pandemic was dealing with the unknown. “Initialpart of thewas pandemic was serious dealing withI the unknown.

“Initially ly II felt felt it it was something something serious but but I did did not not know know to to what what ly I felt itshe wassaid. something serious but Icaught did notinknow to what extent,” “I felt like a deer headlights.” extent,” she said. “I felt like a deer caught in headlights.” extent,”the she said. “I felt like a deer caughtbecame in headlights.”

When When the reality reality of of the the global global situation situation became clearer, clearer, WhenMonrose—who the reality of the global situationtobecame clearer, Mrs. has been married Mrs. Monrose—who has been married to Pastor Pastor Gilman Gilman Mrs. Monrose—who has been married her to Pastor Gilman Monrose for the past 21 years—shifted focus to Monrose for the past 21 years—shifted her focus to safety safety Monrose for the past 21 years—shifted her focus to safety for for her her family family and and congregation. congregation. Questions Questions occupied occupied her her for her“What family and congregation.

Questions occupied her mind: mind: “What would would happen happen with with our our children’s children’s school? school? mind: would “What would happen with our How children’s school?

What What would it it look look like like for for the the church? church? How do do we we not not let let What would it look like for the church?

How thoughts, do we notshe let the fear paralyze us?”

To combat these racing the fear paralyze us?” To combat these racing thoughts, she the feartoparalyze us?”

To combatand these racing thoughts, she turned positive affirmations grounding in her faith. turned to positive affirmations and grounding in her faith. turned to positive affirmationsItand grounding in her faith.

“For “For me me it it was was about about balance. balance. It was was important important to to find find that that “For me it was about balance. It was important to find that www.thepositivecommunity.com

In candid conversation, they spoke of In In candid candid conversation, conversation, they they spoke spoke of of the ups and downs they navigate having the the ups ups and and downs downs they they navigate navigate having having to be the hand rocking the cradle while to to be be the the hand hand rocking rocking the the cradle cradle while while wading through uncharted waters of a wading wading through through uncharted uncharted waters waters of of a a pandemic plagued world. pandemic pandemic plagued plagued world. world. balance between between the the combinations combinations of of uncertainty uncertainty and and fear fear balance balance between the combinations of uncertainty and fear and faith and positive action.”

In his capacity as president and faith and positive action.” In his capacity as president of of and 67th faith Precinct and positive action.”

In hisPastor capacity as president of the Clergy Council, Monrose was out out the 67th Precinct Clergy Council, Pastor Monrose was the the 67th Precinctevery Clergy Council, Pastor Monrose was site out on frontline day, manning a PPE distribution on the frontline every day, manning a PPE distribution site on the frontline manning a PPE and food pantry. every “I fully fullyday, accept that this this is his hisdistribution calling and andsite he and food pantry.

“I accept that is calling he and food pantry.

“I fully accept that thismy is his calling and he does it with passion.

So, I had to soothe fear for his safety does it with passion. So, I had to soothe my fear for his safety does supportive it with passion.

So, Iby had to soothehim my fear for hisall safety with caution reminding to follow the with supportive caution by reminding him to follow all the with supportive by reminding follow all the protocols, etc. In Incaution the meantime, meantime, felthim like to needed—and protocols, etc. the II felt like II needed—and protocols, etc.

In theinmeantime, I felt like I church. needed—and wanted—to do more helping him with the wanted—to do more in helping him with the church. It It was was wanted—to do more Iinstill helping him with the no church.

It was challenging because had my 9-5 job and experience challenging because I still had my 9-5 job and no experience challengingin because I still had my 9-5 job and no experience whatsoever whatsoever in working working remotely,” remotely,” she she explained. explained. “So, “So, II did did whatsoever inthat working remotely,” she explained.

“So, I did my best; and included simple things like making my best; and that included simple things like making sure sure my had best; and thatmeal included simple things like making sure he he had aa healthy healthy meal every every day. day. Moreover, Moreover, II was was deliberate deliberate he providing had a healthy meal every day.he Moreover, I wassodeliberate in a safe haven when came home he could in providing a safe haven when he came home so he could in providing a safe haven when he came home so he could debrief debrief but but also also have have conversations conversations about about things things other other than than debrief but also In have conversations about thingsand other than the pandemic.” holding the family together the pandemic.” In holding the family together and providprovidthe the pandemic.” In for holdinghusband, the family together and providing ing the grounding grounding for her her husband, Mrs. Mrs. Monrose Monrose ensured ensured ing the grounding fortradition her husband, Mrs.dinners Monrosewith ensured they held onto their of family they held onto their tradition of family dinners with their their they children held onto their tradition of family dinners with their two as much as possible.

“HGTV was also two children as much as possible. “HGTV was also aa go-to go-to two children asfamily much could as possible.

“HGTV wasshe alsosaid a go-to that the entire watch together,” that the entire family could watch together,” she said with with the entire has family could watch together,” she said with athat a chuckle. chuckle. She She has served served the the congregation congregation doing doing outreach outreach a chuckle.

She has served the congregation doingher outreach with with positive positive words words of of affirmation affirmation every every day day via via her social social with positive words of affirmation every daya via her social media platforms.

“This pandemic has held mirror media platforms. “This pandemic has held a mirror up up to to media platforms.

“This pandemic has heldAnd a mirror up to our faces and taught us what’s important. that is our faces and taught us what’s important. And that is our our our faces and taught us what’s important. And that is our health, health, family, family, community, community, and and connections,” connections,” she she said. said. “To “To health, family, community, andconnected connections,” sheother. said. “To get through this we must stay to each get through this we must stay connected to each other. We We get through this wefor must stayother, connected to each other.

We must must pray pray not not just just for each each other, but but with with each each other. other. By By must pray not just for each other, but with each other.

By praying together, we can hear our supplications on behalf of praying together, we can hear our supplications on behalf of praying together, we can hear our supplications on behalf of the other and that helps bring us closer.” the other and that helps bring us closer.” the other and that helps bring us closer.” cont’d on next page cont’d on next page cont’d on next page

We embrace all of the wives and We We embrace embrace all all of of the the wives wives and and mothers who are not just the clichéd mothers mothers who who are are not not just just the the clichéd clichéd “good woman woman behind the good man,” “good “good woman behind behind the the good good man,” man,” but the unheralded frontline worker but but the the unheralded unheralded frontline frontline worker worker for their their families and and the defensive defensive line for for their families families and the the defensive line line for their congregants.

They are the for for their their congregants. congregants. They They are are the the First Ladies!

Ladies!

First First Ladies!

March 2021 The Positive Community

39

3 3 3

FIRST LADIES cont’d from previous page

A HUNGER AND THIRST FOR SERVICE MRS. MARY JOHNSON CLEMMONS WIFE OF REV. DR. JOSEPH CLEMMONS, JR.

As a pastor’s wife, Mrs. Mary Johnson Clemmons, first lady of the Historic First Church of God in Christ, Brooklyn, said she has done more praying than ever before. “I have also come to God in a much more reverent way,” she added. “I put everything to God because we have certainly never experienced a time like this.” The first challenge for the Clemmonses, who have been married since 2014, was figuring out ways to reach their congregation and keep them connected.

“We tried to come up with ways in which we can stay in communion, be safe, and observe public health guidelines. The thing is, we did not have a whole lot of time to do so. We made some drastic changes quickly. The first thing we did even before we went to live-streaming our church services was have a conference call with our membership.” Though according to Mrs. Clemmons the direct impact of COVID

Like the other first ladies, Mrs. Clemmons, too, has experienced a renewed closeness with her husband, Pastor Joseph Clemmons, Jr. “Oh yes, the pandemic has certainly brought us closer together as a couple,” she offered. “We talk more, we share with each other, and this has extended into doing more Bible study together.

40

The Positive Community March 2021

Historic First Church of God in Christ, Brooklyn, NY

on their congregation has been minimal (they lost two members), the effect on their lives due to distance and isolation is undeniable. “This pandemic changed our whole perspective on love and service for the community,” she said. “Although these have always been my hallmarks, their importance took on new meaning. As a pastor’s wife I talk to more people than I ever have before. I am a working wife so in order to stay connected with our church community, I’ve also done more texting than ever. I try to talk to at least three people in the congregation every day and beyond that I text people so they know we love and care about them.” Like the other first ladies, Mrs. Clemmons, too, has experienced a renewed closeness with her husband, Pastor Joseph Clemmons, Jr. “Oh yes, the pandemic has certainly brought us closer together as a couple,” she offered. “We talk more, we share with each other, and this has extended into doing more Bible study together. We are working together in uplifting our congregation and community. As things open up, my husband and I are eager to plan ways in which we can be more outward rather than inward in our service. How can we take the gifts we have and get out and serve our community? That’s the question on our minds. It is what we are examining as a couple and as minister and wife. This pandemic has changed our hearts,” she said. “It has made us more aware. So now there is a hunger and thirst to be a resource for and serve our community more than we ever have before.” Her message of hope for this time is simple: “Love! Service! Community!” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Convent Avenue Baptist Church Getting Vaccines into Arms

M

any churches have become pop-up centers for coronavirus vaccinations. On Friday February 26, 2021, Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem, NY served as one of the centers administering the COVID-19 vaccine. Approximately 540 people received

their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. All were scheduled to return to the church on March 19 to receive their second shot. Convent also served as a coronavirus testing site.

Jackie taking the vaccine

Community activist and labor leader, Jackie Rowe-Adams registers for the vaccine

Convent member Peggy Allen proudly shows off her proof of vaccination

thepositivecommunity.com

Come to the Website, Featuring TPC Radio www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2021 The Positive Community

41

Officers GBCNJ 2020 ­‑ 2024 General Baptist Convention of New Jersey

T

he General Baptist Convention of NJ recently announced its new leadership team to serve thru 2024. Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell succeeds Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr. as President. General Baptist Convention is the oldest and largest statewide church and clergy leadership organization serving over 250 congregations.

The Dr. Blackwell administration moves forward under the banner of C. A. R. E. (Compassion, Association, Rapport, and Empathy).

Below is a listing of the Convention’s elected leaders:

Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell

Parent Body

Auxiliary Presidents & Ancillary Support Staff continued

President: Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Good Neighbor BC, Newark, New Hope District

Music and Creative Arts Auxiliary Sis. Crystal Wiggins, Mt. Calvary BC, Newark, North Jersey Districtt

First Vice President: Dr. J. Michael Sanders, Fountain BC, Summit, Middlesex District

Nurses Auxiliary Sis. Mary Ann Darby, Trinity BC, Newark, Kareem, New Hope District

Second Vice President: Dr. Semaj Vanzant, Sr. Second BC, Asbury Park, Seacoast District

Ushers Auxiliary Bro. Eugene Morris, New Philippian BC, Glassboro, The Bethany District Bro. Charles Moore 1st Vice

General Secretary: Dr. James A. Dunkins, Shiloh BC, Port Norris/Vineland, Bethany District

Congress of Christian Education Rev. Shawn Wallace President

Financial Secretary: Rev. Kevin J. White, New Zion BC, Elizabeth, New Hope District

Director of Christian Education Dr. Edward Harper, Macedonia BC, Lakewood,

Treasure: Dr. Ralph M. Branch, Jr., Mt. Calvary BC, Newark, North Jersey District

The Summer Assembly Rev. Zantesah Ingalls, Gallilee BC, Newark, New Hope District

Recording Secretary: Rev. John Gamble, Jr., Smyrna BC, Newark, North Jersey District

New & Young Minister's & Pastors Division Rev. Douglas Williams, III, Zion Hill BC, Newark, New Hope District

Auxiliary Presidents & Ancillary Support Staff

Rev. Curtis Smith

Women's Auxiliary President Sis. Janet Jasper, St. John BC, Scotch Plains, Middlesex District

Executive Administrator Sis. Jackie Carter, Aenon BC. Union, New Hope District

Layment's Department President Bro. Vincent Bryant, Mt. Calvary BC, Newark, North Jersey District

Special Assistant to the President Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree, Good Neighbor BC, Newark, New Hope District

42

The Positive Community March 2021

Foreign Mission.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Cultural Narrative

L

Photo: Raymond Hagans

ong-time community activist Jihadah Sharif met with Adrian Council and funeral director Sam Arnold of Perry's Funeral Home in Newark, NJ to discuss issues, initiatives, and solutions. Adrian presented the African American Cultural Narrative to Mr. Arnold.

The framed poster is proudly displayed on the wall of his office.

Teach the children; advance the culture; secure the future!

Read and download The Cultural Narrative or view the video online.

Go to: thepositivecommunity.com

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March 2021 The Positive Community

43

Because 7JEFP 5SJCVUF UP .BZPS %BWJE %JOLJOT we care ǰF 1PTJUJWF $PNNVOJUZ UIBOLT FWFSZPOF UIBU DPOUSJCVUFE UP UIF NFNPSJBM USJCVUF JO UIF NBHB[JOF UP /FX :PSL $JUZhT íSTU "GSJDBO "NFSJDBO NBZPS %BWJE / %JOLJOT " IFBSUGFMU WJEFP IPOPSJOH UIF MJGF BOE MFHBDZ PG UIJT DPVSBHFPVT MFBEFS BOE OPCMF TPVM MJWFT POMJOF (P Being a mom is a very important job.

UP UIFQPTJUJWFDPNNVOJUZ DPN 4IBSF UIJT NFTTBHF XJUI B ZPVOH QFSTPO UPEBZ

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March 2021 The Positive Community

45

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com

The Last Word

March 2021

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 21 No. 2

Publisher

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales

Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. Marc Williams Burton Waddy NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR

Contributing Writers Patricia Baldwin Glenda Cadogan Fern Gillespie Derrel Jazz Johnson g.r. mattox Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi Rev. Theresa Nance

Photographers

Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Regina Flemming Bob Gore Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Seitu Oronde Karen Waters Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr.

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC

Production Assistant April Davis

The Positive Community Corp.

133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation.

All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

46

The Positive Community March 2021

WOMEN MADE FRESH HISTORY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

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he year 2020 was undoubtedly one for the history books. Around the world, nearly everyone and everything stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While many took the mass quarantine as a time to slow down and take a breath, women around the world —especially women of color— were forced to spring into action to keep their families and the world on track.

During a time when millions lost their jobs, women found themselves working two and three jobs to make ends meet and make it through this unprecedented time. Frontline workers in the health, medical, retail, food service, and delivery fields were deemed “essential” — as though they hadn’t always been exactly that. Suddenly, they found themselves working additional hours and fending for themselves regarding protective gear and childcare.

Those who were able to work from home were reminded of just how essential their roles were, not only doing the daily work that earned their paychecks, but doing that work while homeschooling their children, cooking three meals daily, cleaning the house, and helping with homework, too. One friend of mine, a teacher by trade, had to teach from home via the internet while caring for her grandchildren because daycare was closed. And when classes were finally finished she had to load everyone into the car so they could stand in line at the grocery store and hope to find toilet paper, diapers, etc. before returning home to help with homework and then grade papers and prepare lesson plans.

March is recognized as Women’s History Month. It began as Women’s History Week in 1978 in Sonoma County, California and was given national recognition by President Jimmy Carter in 1978. Now, it is commemorated around the world (although Australia celebrates it in October) to highlight the contributions of women in history

and to contemporary society. I find a certain irony in the fact that the global pandemic began in March 2020.

I’ve been amazed and impressed by my sistas’ entrepreneurship. I know women doing hair and selling plates out of their homes, some cleaning and sanitizing other people’s homes, and others doing laundry from their homes because folks just didn’t trust the local laundromat or couldn’t get there during the often-reduced hours of the pandemic. I’ve seen moms coordinate their schedules to take turns homeschooling their children in “learning pods,” as well as online videoconferencing tutoring to keep kids up to speed with their schoolwork. I know women who have created food pantries from what they and their circle can spare, and let’s not forget that Stacey Abrams and Black women across the country —but especially in Georgia— SAVED this country from another abominable four years and many more unnecessary COVID-19 deaths. And did I mention Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, the Black woman scientist instrumental in developing the Moderna vaccine?

Yeah, I think March 2021 should have an asterisk next to it as SUPER Women’s History Month because while sheroes have been shedding their secret identities and doing the impossible in our communities for years, the past year has been unprecedented. Oh, and we also need to sweep up that broken glass because Kamala Harris shattered that ceiling. www.thepositivecommunity.com

When Whenwomen womensucceed, succeed,everybody wins everybody wins We Weare areproud proudtotocelebrate celebrateallallthe theachievements achievementsofofwomen womenpast, past,present, present, and future. and future.

Positive PositiveCommunity, Community,it's it'sananhonor honortotobebea apart partofofyour event. your event.

wellsfargo.com wellsfargo.com © 2020 © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

All rights reserved.

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Rutgers University – Newark celebrates the visionary, accomplished, and courageous women at our table of leadership… during Women’s History Month and every month!

Among Rutgers-Newark’s many distinguished women leaders are those pictured here: (Top, L to R) Nancy Cantor, Chancellor, Marcia W. Brown, Vice Chancellor for External and Governmental Relations, Sherri-Ann P. Butterfield, Executive Vice Chancellor, Carla Hailey Penn, Senior Executive Associate to the Chancellor, Irene O’Brien, Vice Chancellor for Advancement, (Bottom, L to R) Amber Randolph, Senior Vice Chancellor for Administration and Economic Development and CFO, Corlisse Thomas, Senior Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Taja-Nia Henderson, Dean, Graduate School, Lei Lei, Dean, Rutgers Business School, Jacqueline S. Mattis, Dean, School of Arts and Sciences.