Back to School 2021 by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ Back to School 2021 thepositivecommunity.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL ISSUE

COVER Positive

LEGACY FOUNDATION SALUTES JUNETEENTH AMBASSADORS MICHELLENE DAVIS: ALL THE RIGHT MOVES TONY AWARD WINNER IRENE GANDY

Change

Meet NYC Public Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter REDISCOVERING CHARLIE PARKER WITH STRINGS

BACK TO SCHOOL 2021

CONTENTS SECTIONS Education ............................. 16 Culture ................................... 29

Features Victorious NYC Democratic Candidates ..................... 10 Boyers Welcomed to Lead Great Mt. Zion .................. 11

NY Honors Essential Workers .................................... 14 Health Executives Connect .........................................15

Cover photo by Regina Fleming

ON THE COVER:

Cover Story: Meisha Porter Makes History As NYC Schools Chancellor

&also inside

Publisher’s Desk ................................ 8 Fitness Doctor ................................. 12 The Last Word .................................. 46

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

Michellene Davis Making Moves ................................16 Hooray for the Graduates .......................................... 23 Tribute to Charlie Parker ........................................... 29 Bethany Farewell ..................................................... 36 Rev. Albert Morgan’s 35th Pastoral Anniversary .......... 37

Irene Gandy Gets Her Tony ........................................ 40 BedStuy Welcomes Cultural Museum of African Art..... 42

HCCI Hosts Harlem Revive ........................................ 44 19th Annual ImageNation Outdoors Festival ............. 45 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Community Lending celebrates

National Black Business Month

We know that as a minority-owned small business, you might feel overlooked by banks. Our Community Lending team, however, sees you. We're standing by ready to provide you with the guidance and tools you need to successful manage and even grow your business.

Every small business has their plans. Let’s talk about yours.

Go to Valley.com/PositiveCommunity to learn more.

VLY3042_TPC August - Community Lending/National Black Business Month Full Page Ad .indd 2

7/29/21 1:16 PM

his will be a 3-day Virtual Experience that is designed to help you expand in ministry, or in the marketplace. Our speakers will be sharing growth strategies and structures needed for survival in a pandemic and beyond. Including a Class on Social Justice.

Why you should register for #LCLG?

.. . ..

You will hear from ministry leaders, and entrepreneurs, who have “boots on the ground” with a successful track record. • All of our practitioners have successfully thrived in,

and survived this pandemic.

• You will get innovative strategies to put in your ministry and/or marketplace toolkit, that will ensure sustainability and longevity.

Workshop Topics include…

• God in the Ghetto

• Carrying Out the Vision in Fiscal Affairs • The Next Chapter – Do You Have Enough Money • A Blended Approach – Praise and Worship, Litanies and Liturgy Old and New • The Absolute Necessity of Technology in These Times

The Power of Your Yes! On to Your Next Maintaining Relevance Supporting the ministry and the vision of the Senior Pastor Taking Good Care of Business How We Made It!

And more........ Register today at www.donaldhilliardjr.org Sign up your entire team.

ADRIAN COUNCIL PUBLISHER’S DESK

SAVING OUR OWN COMMUNITY

The Cultural Narrative, Education and Positive Change!

he Positive Community’s (TPC) African American Cultural Narrative poster series will enter into its 10th year in 2022. Since it was first published in 2012, thousands are now in possession the poster. Over the years TPC has introduced this “new language of freedom” to scores of churches, clergy leadership groups and cultural organizations in New York and New Jersey. And our team continues on as bearers of glad tidings about our American story, with even better news about a future of awesome potential and possibilities! A healthy and prosperous future awaits generations to come if only we commit to know and teach our own story—now! What more can be said about the Cultural Narrative document; it speaks for itself. Hardly a single sentence has been altered since it was first written almost 10 years ago. Graphic design changed only once. What was first written back then is as true today as it will be even 50 years from now. The Cultural Narrative is the truth about who we really are. This is our story; our narrative— it belongs to us! The Great Emancipation

The Cultural Narrative came in existence in anticipation of the Emancipation Proclamation’s 150th anniversary on January 1, 2013. Indeed, January 1st, is one of the most important dates on the American calendar especially for the African American people. On that day in1863, freedom came to over 3.5 million of our ancestors in bondage in the Confederate South; 200,000 Negro troops were mobilized to fight alongside the Union Army. With the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation, the Civil War transitioned from being a war to save the Union to a war to end slavery; a war that cost over 600,000 American lives. And yes, we do owe a debt of gratitude to decedents of those in the Union Army who sacrificed their lives on the battlefields on behalf of American freedom! On December 31st, New Year’s Eve, thousands of churches across America will host Watch Night service. A tradition that dates back 160 years, it began when slaves gathered in prayerful anticipation of New Year’s Day when President Abraham Lincoln’s executive order, the Emancipation Proclamation, would take effect.

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

Teach the Children

In this year, Juneteenth, already a state holiday in New Jersey has now become a national holiday. It is absolutely crucial that we come to an increased understanding of and appreciation for origins and destinies; cause and effect. Juneteenth is to Emancipation Day, what Easter is to Christmas. You cannot have one without the other. After all, just what is Watch Night without Emancipation Day? The great Cultural Narrative provides simple answers to the complex question: Who are we; and where do we go from here? The cultural narrative is the story of a people; our claim on the American Dream in just 281 words! The Cultural Narrative is a story for all communities, races and cultures to embrace. Let’s teach this to the children and our dear grandchildren. Teach it in the home, the church and in the classroom. Ideally, let us do all we possibly can to see to it that by the age of 13, every child would know how to read, speak and comprehend this narrative. This invaluable story must be committed to memory; it must never be forgotten. Save the children; secure the future; advance the Race! The progress of our children and the integrity of our African American culture, values and traditions—our collective soul—mean everything. In these matters, always remember this: we the people are sovereign! The only way we can ever be denied of our own blessings and freedom is if we deny them for ourselves! Positive Change

The dawn of a new age for positive change is now upon us! For our people, Emancipation Day is about community progress, intelligent patriotism and self-determination—Red, White and Blue; Juneteenth holiday is about family, community, cultural pride and true liberty—Red, Black and Green. Save the Date! On January 1, 2022, The Positive Community’s Third Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards will take place live at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, NJ and /or on virtual platforms. The event will recognize individuals and organizations, who through a demonstration of loving, unselfish service reflect the ideals of community life and American freedom. Our honorees represent the best and the brightest in diverse, servant leadership roles who are ever committed to peace, world progress and the good will of all—positive change!

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The African American Cultural Narrative

frican Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years). On January 1, 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law, signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born. One hundred years later in August 1963, at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial, as he led hundreds of thousands to a March on Washington, seeking an end to discrimination and 90 years of Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full and equal citizen’s rights for the people in what has been called “the Second Emancipation.” Forty years after Martin Luther King Jr.’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elected its first black president, the Honorable Barack Obama (2008). In the 100 years between the first and second emancipation, in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching, and enduring the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, education, medicine, invention, sports, and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature, and theater. Indeed, original American art forms and a popular culture which has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! And that is our story—the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race—revealed!

An Extraordinary History Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation, and triumph that we must never, ever forget! This is the very story we must tell our children and ever be remembered for all future generations. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation must tell our story and sing our greatest songs to each other and to the entire world! We must remind ourselves over and over again of the noble struggle, human dignity, sacrifices and wisdom of our torch-bearing forefathers; of our goodly heritage, our divine inheritance; our great music legacy—Positive Music Matters! This is our story—the cultural narrative—a new language of freedom; a springboard toward a great and prosperous future; a spiritually enlightened ideal. A vision of hope, opportunity, and progress; liberty and happiness; health and wholeness—peace and goodwill! WE’VE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH…!

—Adrian A. Council, Sr.

L-R: Manhattan DA-elect Alvin Bragg, Rev. Al Sharpton, and NYC Democratic mayoral nominee Eric Adams

Victorious NYC Democratic Primary Candidates

aturday, July 9, 2021 at National Action Network’s (NAN) House of Justice in Harlem, NY: Rev. Al Sharpton welcomed Democratic mayorial nominee Eric Adams and Manhattan DA elect Alvin Bragg at their first joint appearances since both were victorious in the NYC Democratic primary.

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

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Boyer’s Called to Lead Greater Mount Zion A.M.E

Salvation, Social Justice Headquartered at Historic Church

First Lady Rosalee and Pastor Rev. Dr. Charles F. Boyer with Dr. Harriet Green Richardson, head of the Steward Board

hen Rosalee and Reverend Dr. Charles Boyer begin their new assignment to lead the historic Greater Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church in Trenton, they brought with them Salvation and Social Justice (SandSJ), the organization they founded. “Given our work to liberate Black people in New Jersey from systemic bondage, it is a great privilege to serve and be headquartered at such a historic Black church,” Charles Boyer said. “I am grateful to Bishop Gregory Ingram and Elder Robert C. Wade for entrusting us with this awesome congregation. We seek to honor the church’s past, see it into the future, while we also honor the legacy of my predecessor Reverend Frank Smart.”

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Previously the pastor and first lady of Bethel A.M.E. in Woodbury, the Boyers founded and headquartered SandJ there. Now, the organization will have its headquarters in the first Black church in Trenton that was part of the underground railroad in 1811. With its illustrious history, Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E. is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of advocating for true equity for Black communities across the state. It has a history of leading community advocacy. “We are honored to be leading this historically rich congregation in being at the forefront of discipleship and community activism. This is not a new endeavor for this church. Greater Mt. Zion has a rich history of civil rights leaders on the frontlines,” remarked Rosalee Boyer. One such leader was Sister Edith Savage (1924-2017), known for her activism alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the Urban League Guild. Sis. Savage and many other members paved the pathway for Greater Mt. Zion to be impactful during this season of reimagining how the Trenton community, and state as a whole, can be more equitable for all.

Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

Season of Revival your trainer. Exercise is not just for weight loss; other benefits are bodily stamina and minimizing the effects or appearance of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. As you exercise, endorphins course through your body, elevating your spirits naturally as the physical training improves the conditioning of your heart and muscles. Your joints are strengthened, flexibility and endurance are increased, and you begin to thrive as your body starts to work as intended. You are indeed wonderfully made! (Psalm 139:13) Please follow these Fitness Doctor tips, and as always, get your physician’s approval before starting an exercise plan.

he fall season is approaching. Children are poised to return to school, excited and ready to learn. After the unprecedented events of last year, I believe children and parents are happy things are returning to normal. It is a time of renewal, when minds are strengthened, neural pathways are flowing with information and the experiences that make us who we are. It is a time of revival, pure and simple. Revival is defined as “an improvement in the condition or strength of something”—in this case, the minds of students. As the pastor of a thriving church community, I have just led my congregation in a health and healing revival. There were speakers on how to manage our health insurance and the connection of the mind, body, and spirit to our physical health. We immersed ourselves in worship and renewed our commitment and dedication to God. It was truly awesome. Revival is often considered only a spiritual exercise, but we can have revival in all parts of our lives— especially the physical. As the Fitness Doctor and a certified trainer, I have thoughts on physical revival. It is beneficial to stay current and have the newest recommendations on health and bodily training. The current recommendations by medical professionals are that daily physical activity is essential to our well-being. You have to move! Mindful movement of your body is needed to sustain physical health and encourage mental balance. Plan your physical activity—take a walk during the day, schedule and keep your appointment with

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

• Exercise regularly, start slow. Consider getting a certified personal trainer. • Monitor your diet; eat mostly vegetables and lean proteins. Try to eliminate things harmful to your wellbeing, like excess sugar. • Drink plenty of water daily. Your body doesn’t work well without it. • Try to get at least seven hours of sleep nightly. During your deepest sleep, your body is replenishing itself. Be blessed, live well and Prosper!

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

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

Monoclonal Antibody Therapy is most effective within the first 5 days of symptoms (in some cases, up to 10 days)—so you must act fast: G E T T E S T E D . G E T T R E AT E D . G E T B E T T E R .

To schedule a COVID-19 test call 201-833-3313 To be evaluated for treatment call 201-833-3495 No prescription is needed.

Single, one-hour infusion treatment Reduces severe complications and hospitalizations by 70% Shortens the duration of symptoms by up to 4 days Most people feel significantly better in as little as 48 hours Monoclonal antibody therapy is available at no cost to patients, whether or not they have insurance.

718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 Copyright © 2021 Holy Name Medical Center. All rights reserved. *Medical conditions that place people at higher risk for COVID-19 complications: age 65 and older, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease, immune disorders, immune-suppressive treatment. This is not a complete list. Contact Holy Name for more information.

Learn more at HolyName.org/AntibodyTreatment

B:5.25" T:3.4" Sandra Lindsey, the first person in the U.S. to receive a COVID-19 vaccine

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New York Honors Essential Workers

Over 100,000

March Down the Canyon of Heroes Here for you. Now and always.

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2021 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105. ®

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fter more than a year of hard work and heartache, Wednesday, July 18 marked a moment of celebration for New York City’s essential workers: Hundreds of nurses and health care workers, transit and sanitation workers, cooks, and educators marched in the sweltering heat in a parade to honor them, as streams of confetti poured down and crowds cheered thanking them for their strong will and bravery. First responders showed great bravery and selflessness during this Covid 19 pandemic. Sandra Lindsay, the first person in the United States to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, was honored as the parade’s grand marshal and remembered as the brave soul who wanted to prove the vaccine was safe for all. “Not to be the first one to take the vaccine,” Ms. Lindsay, 52, told the New York Times, “but to inspire people who look like me, who are skeptical in general about taking vaccines.” She received her first shot on December 20, 2020. The second 21 days later. The parade kicked off at Battery Park and travelled down Broadway’s Canyon of Heroes. With 14 floats and 240 different groups of essential workers totaling over 100,000 marchers, it was one of the largest tickertape parades in history. According to the CDC, the COVID vaccines do not guarantee full immunity, but if one does contract the virus even though fully vaccinated, the effects are much less severe, frequently showing no symptoms at all. However, medical professionals caution everyone to continue to wear masks since so many people refuse to be vaccinated and continue to go maskless. The COVID vaccine protects vaccinated people against the Delta variant as well, an even deadlier version of COVID (which has contributed to a surge of COVID around the globe), and the same precautions apply. “GET VACCINATED AND CONTINUE TO WEAR A MASK!” That’s what essential workers want you to do... then they won’t need another parade! www.thepositivecommunity.com

Front row L-R: Anthony Winston, Atiya Jaha-Rashidi, Byron Smith, Lauriel Porter Back row: Chase Stuart, Wendell Alexis, DeAnna Minus-Vincent, Moses Salami, Franck Nelson, Sean Baptist

L-R: Chapter President Wendell Alexis and Sean Baptiste

L-R: Chapter President-elect Franck Neslon and Moses Salami

Guests listen at the NASHE NJ mixer event at McLoone’s Boathouse

L-R: Moses Salami, Anthony Winston, and Atiya Jaha-Rashidi

Health Executives Connect

he National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) NJ Chapter took the opportunity to reconnect with its members at McLoone’s Boathouse in West Orange, NJ. Sean Baptiste, chief HR officer at RWJBH Medical Group, was the guest speaker covering a range of topics regarding his professional journey. In addition to the new NAHSE leadership changes,

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Chapter President Wendell Alexis discussed the election process for committees under the new administration of President-elect Franck Nelson. “NAHSE NJ always seeks to deepen the connection within our professional communities, not only at the executive level, but also the graduate level. We invite all healthcare students and professionals to join us in elevating those connections.” Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

Michellene Davis: The Hero We Need Now and Always By R.L. Witter

hen Michellene Davis, Esq. last graced the cover of The Positive Community, she was using her superpowers as senior vice-president for Policy Development and Government Affairs at Barnabas Health to advocate for policies and programs to improve healthcare for people and communities of color. She was determined that if Barnabas was “going to be in this community, we need to be of this community.” Eight years later, the stakes are even higher and the situation more dire as the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus spreads across the country, especially in minority communities. Taking the fight to a more personal level, Davis now presides over National Medical Fellowships (NMF) as president and CEO with an approach to help defeat the virus now and improve healthcare in minority communities for the future. We spoke on a July afternoon. COVID numbers were steadily increasing across America. President Biden missed his goal of 70% of adults with at least one dose of a COVID vaccine and rumblings about mask mandates in schools percolated. With skepticism about the vaccines from the outset, two particular groups lagged behind in getting the jab: Christians and African Americans. “There’s a history of earned distrust of the medical community and I certainly understand that, but please understand, we [Black people] don’t get this (COVID-19) and lose our sense of taste and smell; we get this and die… It is deeply concerning,” Davis cautioned.

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

Having worked in healthcare and health equity for many years, Davis understood the importance of vaccination early on in the pandemic. “On this side of COVID, I had to more than issue a statement,” she explained. “I need to be able to say I did everything to move equity forward and everything I could to take care of my mother.” Her mother, Ruby, with Alzheimer’s requires constant care. Davis was surprised to learn

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– M I C H E L L E N E D AV I S –

“Minority physicians are so important in this time because mainstream media finally started talking about things I’ve been living for years around health equity, healthcare disparity, and the social determinants of health—which I’ve always called the political determinants of health because they were designed by policy,” the current aide, described as “the best my mother has ever had,” was not yet vaccinated. She is aware of people “waiting to see” if there would be side effects. “I know one side effect of not being vaccinated,” she told one person. “COVID.” There are religious arguments against the vaccine, too. As a devout woman of faith and a “delighted” member of Elmwood United Presbyterian Church under Pastor Maria Crompton, those arguments don’t sit well or align with her experiences as a Christian. “I can’t imagine this loving God—who loved us enough in order to sacrifice his son—would decide ‘You didn’t see through the science so I’m going to banish you to damnation.’ I don’t see how that lines up with the character of God that’s described in His word.” Davis recommends vaccination to anyone who asks and offers some insight from her work with medical professionals. “You remember when there was a shortage of ventilators last year? We likely will not see a shortage of ventilators this go-round but it is not because the Delta variant no longer makes it difficult to breathe; it is because the Delta variant is a much swifter killer. It is much more transmissible, and it can kill within three to five days… In addition, these individuals are much younger. We’re seeing this in thirty-year-olds.” Making Changes

As the virus took hold of the world and changed life as we knew it, Davis made changes. “I had to do more.” Now, as NMF president and CEO, she is addressing a deep root of the problem with medical care and minorities in America. “When you go into your physician’s office, you traditionally have to fill out a form that asks not just about you and what you’re currently experiencing, but whether you’ve ever experienced certain issues, certain ailments, and certain occurrences,” she explained. “But more than that, it will also ask you about your parents, ask if anyone in your family suffered from cancer, hypertension, or diabetes. There’s a reason for that. In order to treat you properly, a physician must not merely www.thepositivecommunity.com

look at what you are dealing with right now in order to make a diagnosis. They also need to know whether or not there is a propensity based on historical precedence of illness that runs in your family.” Correcting Historical Disparities

That’s where her work at NMF comes into focus. “We find ourselves in the midst of a global pandemic and an international reawakening around racial and social justice. One of the interesting things for those of us who have been in the health equity space for many, many years is that we knew something like a pandemic was not going to be a great equalizer like so many in the elected sphere began calling it, but that it would be the great magnifier. And it was going to magnify the structural inequities that have been laid bare as a result of the pandemic.” Davis continued, “Those structural inequities have always been there.” NMF’s mission is to provide scholarships and support for underrepresented minority students in medicine and health professions. “Minority physicians are so important in this time because mainstream media finally started talking about things I’ve been living for years around health equity, healthcare disparity, and the social determinants of health—which I’ve always called the political determinants of health because they were designed by policy,” Davis said. She also pointed out that we don’t have to look to “history” to show the disparities people of color face in medical care. She cited infant and maternal mortality in America and the fact that when delivering their children, two of the most famous and wealthiest Black women in the world, Serena Williams and Beyoncé, suffered life-threatening issues related to hypertension. “What we know through studies is that Black babies and Black mothers live longer when they have Black doctors. If, in fact, we know that, what are corporations, healthcare systems, and everybody else doing about the need to have more Black doctors?” cont’d on next page Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

In addition to incubating the pipeline for more doctors of color from vulnerable backgrounds, at NMF, Davis is creating a racial traumainformed mentoring effort and an emphasis on supporting mental health. “Our medical students are dealing with the pandemic and racial and social justice issues, but they’re also doing it while they’re in medical school,” she explained. Michellene Davis cont’d from previous page

Black & Brown Doctors and High Racial Trauma

Her passion was clear as she laid out an argument that could have been argued in the U.S. Supreme Court (Did I mention she holds a law degree from Seton Hall?). “We know when we have more bilingual Black and Brown physicians from communities that are historically underrepresented in medicine we get higher patient involvement and patient compliance. We know that when a doctor comes from a vulnerable community and treats people from similar communities, they tend to have a more holistic approach in viewing their patient. As a result of that, we know that not only do they try to write a prescription, but they also try to make certain there is access and opportunity for folks to get to their doctors’ appointments We know they also ask things like, ‘How are you able to eat this month?’ We know there is a natural basis of cultural confidence heightened. So, if we know this, why are we not doing more to change this—to ensure that pipeline is not just shored up, but bolstered?” She also touched on the emotional and mental health issues facing Black and Brown people during this time in our history. “In the midst of this pandemic and what I call high racial trauma, it’s really important you have a physician whose cultural competence is such that they understand the impact and effect of being the individual who falls in the category that is at the worst possible level in every health category. That they also understand that because there’s been a recent racial shooting or police brutality, that also may be affecting you—that they are sensitized to the weathering of racism.” In addition to incubating the pipeline for more doctors of color from vulnerable backgrounds, at NMF, Davis is creating a racial trauma-informed mentoring effort and an emphasis on supporting mental health. “Our medical students are dealing with the pandemic and racial and social justice issues, but they’re also doing it while they’re in medical school,” she explained. “I want to make certain I am shoring up our scholars by

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

michellenedavis.com

placing a proper focus on building a community of support for them, as well as ensuring an emphasis on having more individuals to go into areas of specialty focusing on mental health.” As the pandemic continues and the world keeps on spinning, Davis is committed to the morals and values her parents, Ruby and Duval Davis, instilled in her. Dedication to helping others and advocating for justice and equity come honestly and run deep. “In order to bring about change to systems and structures, we need to make certain there is a pathway to change who controls those systems and structures,” she said with resolve. “I did not come to NMF just to create or support the pipeline of physicians of color from vulnerable communities. I came to make certain those physicians of color become physicians in healthcare leadership, to change those systems and structures.” Michellene Davis—still a superhero. However, in addition to her cape, she now wears a mask. Godspeed, Ms. Davis. www.thepositivecommunity.com

APC Excellence. Access. Affordability.

Berkeley College • Bryant & Stratton College • The College of Westchester • Five Towns College • Island Drafting & Technical Institute • Jamestown Business College • LIM College • Monroe College • Plaza College • School of Visual Arts • The Swedish Institute

Learn more about APC’s history and impact at apc-colleges.org

A D V E R T O R I A L

New York’s Proprietary Colleges Have Long History of Strong Academic Outcomes

ou have probably never heard of the Association of Proprietary Colleges (APC), but you likely know some of their member institutions. APC is made up of eleven degree-granting, proprietary colleges located throughout New York State. Proprietary colleges are one of the state’s four sectors of higher education (SUNY/ CUNY/Independent) and like all colleges in New York, they are fully accredited and governed by the state’s Board of Regents. The majority of APC member colleges are found in the greater New York City metro area and include Monroe College (Bronx), Plaza College (Queens) as well as Berkeley College, LIM College, the School of Visual Arts (SVA), and Swedish Institute all located in Manhattan. Just outside of the city, you will find the College of Westchester and Five Towns College (Long Island). APC member colleges serve more than 26,000 students

and maintain above-average student outcomes. Offering associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees in numerous in-demand fields, program completion rates across APC member colleges are strong. New York’s degreegranting proprietary colleges have the highest graduation rate for full-time students earning associate level degrees across all sectors of higher education as well as strong ontime Bachelor’s graduation rates for all students. These colleges are New York focused, educating students for lifelong careers that are in demand in New York. Ninety percent of students attending APC member colleges are from New York and more than 80 percent of those students stay in New York after graduation to live and work. They also employ more than 6,000 people and are strong economic drivers in their local communities. To learn more about the Association and its members, visit: https://apc-colleges.org/

Be proud

Berkeley College graduates are part of the diverse workforce that keeps the tristate area thriving. David Brown Entrepreneur, CEO, President, DBTS Trucking Services Inc.

Michelle Dunn-Dawes Manager of Laboratory Services, MTA New York City Transit

Nancy Robles Executive Vice President, Operations and Compliance, Eastern Funding, LLC

Diana Jordan Certified Surgical Technologist University Hospital, Newark, NJ

Edwin Fleurant Cloud Engineer, Google

A D V E R T O R I A L

Berkeley College Offers Students a Flexible Approach

erkeley College is gearing up for the fall semester, which starts on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, by inviting students to come back to campus. The College encourages vaccination as the best method to protect against the COVID-19 virus, but will not mandate vaccination for students to attend in-person classes. Masks are required for all individuals, vaccinated or unvaccinated, inside all campus buildings and on all College shuttles. “With vaccination rates high in New York and New Jersey and stringent protocols for disinfection and social distancing still in place on our campuses, students can begin safely returning to in-person classes,” said Michael J. Smith, President of Berkeley College. “As we have done over the last two academic years, we are monitoring the situation closely and will update our policies as needed to prioritize the health and safety of the Berkeley College community.” The State of New Jersey will require certain state and private healthcare facilities to ensure their workers are fully vaccinated, or will implement weekly testing programs for those workers who are not fully vaccinated. Though the requirements for each site will vary, students in the Berkeley College School of Health Studies who are required to complete a clinical rotation must adhere to these requirements. “Whether their courses are in-person or online, our faculty and staff are on hand to help students through every step of their journey – from teaching and learning – to Academic Advisement and Career Services,” added Smith. “During the fall 2021 semester, Berkeley College students

will have the opportunity to select the course schedule that best meets their program requirements as well as their learning styles and preferences,” said Marsha A. Pollard, PhD, Berkeley College Provost. “Students may choose to attend their classes in-person, remotely, or through a hybrid modality, which consists of a combination of online and on-site courses. Certain courses, such as lab courses within Berkeley College’s School of Health Studies, have a required on-site course component.” Town Hall meetings with students, faculty and staff are planned for August. Smith said he will resume his in-person Chat & Chew sessions, through which students have the opportunity to share their college experiences and feedback. He said students should make an effort to reacquaint themselves with their campus. “Visit the library, join a club, schedule a tutoring session, or take time to get to know another student,” he said. Berkeley will maintain health and safety efforts to decrease the risk of infection, including frequent sanitization and implementing social distancing requirements in classrooms and common areas. All students, faculty and staff who are new to the College must complete a virtual health and safety training before arriving on campus. Additionally, the full range of Berkeley College student support services and resources remain available both on-site and online, including the Library, Academic Advisement, Office of Career Services, Student Development and Campus Life, Office of Disability Services, Center for Academic Success and the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs.

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annah Muhammad graduated from Virginia Union University, an HBCU with a Bachelor’s in English and a minor in Marketing. She intends to pursue a career in publishing.

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In school during COVID, it was difficult for me to figure where my life was going. It seemed like the world was getting more and more unpredictable especially for those of us who were trying to get jobs. I have heard there are more jobs available now than before the pandemic. But, for a job in my field, I need 3-7 years of experience to obtain an entry-level position. I don’t have that experience. Fortunately, luck was on my side. My dad has a parttime job as an Uber driver. One day he began talking with a passenger and bragging about his family. That passenger happened to be Jean Wells, editor of The Positive Community magazine. When he told her that I would graduate this year and was interested in the publishing field, she gave him her card and said that I should come and see her when I graduated.. Well, I have been out of college for a little more than two months and already have a paid internship and it’s at The Positive Community.

Jean Wells’ Story

Rooted.

Innovative. Courageous.

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I was exceptionally pleased when I received the call from Jannah and that she decided to intern with us. So many times people fail to follow up and so miss an opportunity. Our goal is to grow our business so we can provide more opportunities for young people like Jannah. We trust that Jannah is learning. And will look back on this experience as positive as she pursues her career in publishing…maybe even here at The Positive Community. Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

Covered by her Comforter

NYC Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter By Glenda Cadogan | Photos: Regina Fleming

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

– MEISHA PORTER –

“When I am grappling and thinking about decisions to be made, I am doing so both as a parent and a chancellor.”

espite her eminent qualifications and experienced background for the job as schools chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, Meisha Porter comes with her own added layer of protection and guidance. It’s the daily self-application of the 91st Psalm of David. “Every night before I go to bed, I cover myself in the words of the Psalm,” Porter told The Positive Community. Thus every day she is reminded that: “She who dwells

in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Porter made history when she accepted the position of schools chancellor in March, 2021 as

the first African American woman to lead the nation’s largest public school system. A graduate of Queens Vocational and Technical High School, Porter comes from a long line of educators; however, she has uniquely worked at every level in the New York City Public School system having held positions as teacher, assistant principal, principal, district superintendent, and executive superintendent. She brings all of those voices to the table in a moment when the city needs it the most. However, she believes that among her greatest assets for the top job is being the parent of a New York City Public School student. “When I am grappling and thinking about decisions to be made, I am doing so both as a parent and a chancellor,” she said. “I would not open a school system for my own child that I would not want to open for the 1.1 million students we serve. And if I did not believe our schools were safe, I would not be sending my 16-year-old daughter— who has been back since we reopened in March.” Married with one biological child, Porter is also an “honor mother” of three other girl children, one of whom is the daughter of her best friend who succumbed to cancer 10 years ago. Born and raised in Far Rockaway and Jamaica, Queens, Porter described her school experience as: “that of every New York City public school kid. I did not have a lot of privilege and, in fact, was eligible to be on every list from free school lunch to housing. That’s why it’s such an honor and a privilege for me to land in this role at this moment in time.” Though Porter “landed” safely in the position on March 15, the fact is she has a very short runway with the approaching departure of Mayor Bill DeBlasio, who appointed her to the position. That aside, she is composed by her vision of greatness for the New York City Public School system. “My vision is not about four months,” said Porter, adding, “It’s about what our school system needs and what our children deserve.” cont’d on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

Meisha Porter cont’d from previous page

Porter’s repute as a visionary is unquestionable. She helped to conceptualize and launch the creation of the Bronx School for Law, Government, and Justice, the first Urban Assembly School. While at the helm as executive superintendent, graduation rates in the Bronx increased and outperformed all other boroughs. “That was a great opportunity for us to imagine and create what we wanted for our children,” she said. It’s this legacy that Porter takes into Tweed with her. “People say to me what a crazy time it is to become schools chancellor. I counter that with, what an important moment to become chancellor; a moment when New York City really needed someone to step up. Moreover, someone who understands these experiences from the perspective of a student, a parent, and an educator. We need to be wrapping ourselves around our children both academically and emotionally,” she said. “This pandemic has been hard on children and their families. So though we have to assess their learning, we also must make sure they are emotionally and mentally ready to be in learning spaces.” Asked to give her professional assessment of academic performance during the pandemic, Porter responded with a “glass half full” approach. “I operate things from an asset based position,” she explained. “I think about what our children have gained and learned during their time away from the classroom and how we can build on that. Our students have learned how to leverage technology extraordinarily well. Our teachers have learned individualized learning and support for students. So to me, the idea is that the best way to approach this moment is to lean into what our students have learned and complement academics with social and emotional support and enrichment activities.” With a bold leadership style she calls uniquely “Meisha,” Chancellor Porter is awed by the beauty of her huge, blended family of 13 brothers and sisters. “I always lead as my authentic self,” she revealed, adding, “In all aspects of my life I am always Meisha. I believe people appreciate that authenticity.” She also has a collaborative style that has served her well throughout her 25-year career as an educator. “I don’t think we always have to agree, but we do need to understand the why of the decisions we make. The aim is to do our best so that even with the varying perspectives, we understand how different constituencies experience those decisions we make. In that way, we can make the best ones.” Porter described her first day on the job back in the spring as being “absolutely overwhelmed by the enormity of the position. The first challenge facing me was what summer was going to look like for our students. I knew that it could not be like any other summer. So I jumped right in knowing that we had to open our schools. That has been my focus since I sat in the seat as chancellor.” And so it will be on September 13 when all 1,800 New York City public schools fully reopen for the first time in about 18 months.

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

On the hot button issue of vaccinations, Chancellor Porter said her office is taking a multi-layered approach to safety. “We have been encouraging vaccinations for both students and teachers, getting the word out and making our vaccine buses available in every community. But we are also ensuring that all schools have a 30-day supply of PPE and filters, air purifiers, and hand sanitizers are available. Thankfully, we are not asking schools to take this out of their budgets, but as a system we are supplying them with the resources they need to keep our students safe.” According to Porter, in her varying roles in the school system she has always experienced an excitement about the first day of school. “Since my elementary school days I would experience those kinds of emotional butterflies when school is about to reopen. And I still do. I can only imagine what it’s going to be like this year. This is going to be the most exciting first day of school I will ever have and I am so looking forward to it.” So, here’s something we can expect will be happening on the night of September 12, 2021. After Chancellor Porter has snuggled under her comforter, she will pull another covering for herself and the millions of children and teachers she leads and hopefully sleep well with the promise that: “He will give angels charge over you to keep you in all your ways.”—NKJV Psalms 91:11–12 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Culture

music, art + literature

Health

Charlie Parker With Strings

ideas LIVE Performance byfor wellness Donald Harrison, Jr & Amadi Azikiwe By Ron Scott

Money

he iconic alto saxophonist and composer Charlie Parker was so phenomenal it seems as though he still lives. Musicians record his compositions; some chose buiness, finance + work the alto just because it was his instrument, and when he is mentioned in conversations it sounds as though they are speaking of a deity. Parker, also known as “Bird,” created the swift, blazing tempo called bebop, which lit up the instruments of his co-founding bandmates trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, pianist Thelonious Monk, guitarist Charlie Christian, and drummer Kenny Clarke.

I did play trombone in the high school jazz band and really liked it a lot,” said Azikiwe. “But since classical music has been 99% of my life, I will have to do my homework. But this is a unique opportunity to reconnect and learn a the art + science of learning tremendous amount of music.

Education

– Amadi Azkiwe –

“For this project I am immersing myself into a different world. I have been getting familiar with Donald’s music and his timing.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

While Parker is known for his intense dexterity, in 1950 under the auspices of producer Norman Granz, he released two of the arguably most beautiful albums in jazz history entitled Charlie Parker with Strings (Mercury Records). Both albums (all standards) featured Parker in the configuration of a small, classical string section and a jazz rhythm section, rather than his standard bebop quintet. They were Parker’s most popular sellers during his lifetime, and were admitted to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1988. For Parker’s centennial + 1 celebration (cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic), composer and alto saxophonist Donald Harrison, Jr. will collaborate with violinist, music director, and founder of the Harlem Symphony Orchestra Amadi Azikiwe in a live performance of Charlie Parker with Strings. You can hear those memorable, beautiful jazz standards at the annual Charlie Parker Jazz Festival on August 28 in Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park. Harrison, the 2022 NEA Jazz Master recipient and creator of “nouveau swing,” a blend of jazz with R&B, hip-hop, rock, and soul; says he is ready to swing on the classical side. He has performed with 200 jazz masters and created three influential styles of jazz. He has also cont’d on next page Back to School 2021 The Positive Community 29

Charlie Parker cont’d from previous page

Donald Harrison

performed with the Ohio State University Orchestra, accompanied by strings for a similar project. “I was looking around online for a classical musician and found Amadi,” says Harrison. “I was impressed by his YouTube performances so I called him and we discussed the project. I am looking forward to the collaboration.” Harrison’s quartet: pianist Dan Kaufman, bassist Nori Naraoka, and drummer Joe Dyson accompanied by Azikiwe and 11 members of the Harlem Symphony Orchestra and the quartet perform a few orchestrations of his original music plus some of his “nouveau swing” music. During a recent telephone interview, Azikiwe noted Harrison had called him to explain the Parker project and asked if he was up for the challenge? “Of course, I said yes; my father was a trumpeter and I did play trombone in the high school jazz band and really liked it a lot,” said Azikiwe. “But since classical music has been 99% of my life, I will have to do my homework. But this is a unique opportunity to reconnect and learn a tremendous amount of music.” The music director says he was first introduced to Parker’s music at the conservatory. “After listening I was convinced he was the greatest saxophonist to ever live,” stated Azikiwe. “For this project I am immersing myself into a different world. I have been getting familiar with Donald’s music and his timing.”

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

Harrison, the 2022 NEA Jazz Master recipient and creator of “nouveau swing,” a blend of jazz with R&B, hip-hop, rock, and soul; says he is ready to swing on the classical side. He has performed with 200 jazz masters and created three influential styles of jazz. He has also performed with the Ohio State University Orchestra, accompanied by strings for a similar project.

Azikiwe, an accomplished conductor, violist, concerto soloist, chamber musician, orchestral musician, and instructor, started the Harlem Symphony Orchestra in 2004. He felt Harlem needed a classical orchestra so he just called 23 of his friends and they began performing locally at churches like St. Mark’s and Convent Baptist Church. In 2006 they were invited to perform a chamber concert in the British Virgin Islands. However, the symphony’s big media break came in 2007 when they were asked to perform at the world-famous Apollo Theater. They were so impressive, Jonelle Procope (then president and CEO of the Apollo Theater Foundation) invited them to appear on an annual basis. Unfortunately, they have not performed there in over a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Sharing our programs with the Harlem community has been incredibly gratifying,” said Azikiwe. Both musicians only planned one rehearsal With Harrison saying, “One rehearsal should be enough.” Azikiwe agreed, “Yes, we are professionals so it will work out.” On August 25, Conversation: A Bird with Strings featuring Harrison, Azikiwe and the musicians discussing their Charlie Parker with Strings concert takes place at the Jazz Museum in Harlem (58 West 129th Street). I am privileged to moderate the discussion, and we are all blessed to revisit the genius of Charlie Parker. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

Bethany Farewell By jannah MuhaMMad

he spirit of love was in the air at on July 24. Family, friends, and colleagues gathered to celebrate Alice Turner on her retirement from Bethany Baptist Church in Newark. After 35 years of dedicated service as church secretary for three pastors—Rev. Dr. James Scott; Rev. M. William Howard, Jr.; and Rev. Dr. Timothy L. Adkins-Jones; Ms.Turner has moved on to assist Atty. William Ewing at his law office in Montclair, NJ. Ms. Turner is a member of Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark where Rev. Dr. David Jefferson is senior pastor.

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

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Photos: Karen Waters

Reverend Dr. Albert Morgan

Reverend Dr. Albert Morgan and Karen Waters

L-R: Bridgeton Council President Edward Bethea, Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan, and Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly

Reverend Dr. Albert Morgan’s 35th Pasoral Anniversary

n Sunday, June 27, Union Baptist Temple in Bridgeton, New Jersey culminated their celebration of Reverend Dr. Albert L. Morgan’s 35th Pastoral Anniversary. The day also included the celebration of his seventieth birthday. The final presentation was given by Mayor Albert Kelly and Mr. Edward Bethea, council president of Bridgeton. The city government found Pastor Morgan’s contributions to the citizens of Bridgeton worthy of renaming the street on which the church stands after him. Union Baptist Temple

www.thepositivecommunity.com

is now on the corner of Reverend Dr. Albert L. Morgan Place and Martin Luther King, Jr Way. Pastor Morgan is grateful to his family, the Bridgeton community, and his friends that traveled from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas to celebrate his milestone anniversary and birthday. He is still excited to see what God has planned for him and his people! See full story and more online.

Go to: thepositivecommunity.com

Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

B:3.4" T:3.4" S:3.4"

Correction: In our last issue the President of Essex Count College was incorrectly identified. The correct caption is below the photo.

Ruben Santiago-Hudson

L-R: NJ Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver speaks with Al Bundy, executive director of Institutional Advancement at Essex County College and Dr. Augustine Boakye, president Essex County College at the MLK Justice Building in Newarek

Blair Brown, Edie Falco & Marin Ireland

T:9.5"

B:9.5"

S:9.5"

For current protocols and COVID-19 test requirements, visit ManhattanTheatreClub.com/protocols

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

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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

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Irene Gandy

Gets Her Tony!

Theater legend Honored with prestigious Award

By Fern Gillespie

heatre legend Irene Gandy has attended the Tony Awards on Broadway for almost 50 years. As the only Black female press agent member of ATPAM (Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers), she would be backstage working the press for her iconic clients like Lena Horne, James Earl Jones, and Al Pacino. She’s even hit the Tony Awards stage to pick up an award as a producer of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill starring Audra MacDonald. This year, it’s different. She will be onstage receiving the prestigious Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre. Gandy began her career in 1968 as a publicist with Douglas Turner Ward and Robert Hooks for the acclaimed Negro Ensemble Company. The NEC had a union publicist, Howard Atlee, but there were no Black publicists on Broadway and they wanted a trainee. “I knew I was not going to get the job. I’m an old movie buff and the only thing I knew was Mae West talking about her press agent,” she recalled. “I wound up interviewing Howard and that’s how I got into publicity.”

It’s About Relationships

When Atlee told her to go to sleezy Times Square and deliver her first press release to the New York Times’ famed theatre critic Seymour Peck, she dressed in her legendary fashionista style. “I was in the New York Times lobby wearing brown suede hot pants, brown suede boots, pink pockets, and a pink Apple Jack hat.” She would not leave until she met Peck. “When he saw me, Sy said ‘Who are you holding up my deadline?’ And I said ‘Who are you keeping me waiting an hour and a half?’ That began my relationship with him. We were kissing and hugging after that.” For Gandy, successful press relations is about oldschool relationship building. “The thing is, I know

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

everybody. I know their mothers. I know their dogs. I talk to the press people all the time—not only when I’m working on a show,” she explained. “I respect the press people. We have coffee during off-season. We talk all the time. I’ve known most of the press people since they started and I keep that relationship.” This includes being a frontline advocate for the Black press. “I’m very respectful of the Black press. Always. When we have press days and media days, I make sure the Black press is included,” she stressed. “I call celebrities’ press agents and tell them they should be involved with Harlem Week. They have to do the Amsterdam News. I let my voice be known.”

Not to Namedrop, but…

Over her 50-year career, Gandy’s wit, wisdom, style and storytelling have impacted over 100 Broadway shows including August: Osage County, Glengarry Glen Ross, Radio Golf, Bubbling Brown Sugar, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Lena Horne: The Lady and her Music, and The Wiz. She has been a go-to publicist for legendary playwrights David Mamet and August Wilson. She promoted Samuel Jackson and Denzel Washington during the early stages of their careers. In addition to her work in theater, she worked as associate director of Special Markets for CBS Records, with such artists as Earth, Wind and Fire; The Jacksons; and Labelle. As vice president of Jeffrey Richards Associates, her recent productions include The Great Society, China Doll, Fiddler on the Roof, American Son, and You Can’t Take It With You. American Son star Kerry Washington demanded that Gandy head her community affairs outreach. In 2008, she became the first female press agent to be immortalized with a Sardi’s caricature. A fashionista known for her furs, in 2015 she launched a signature collection featured in Vogue magazine and will www.thepositivecommunity.com

debut a Lady Irene Fur line in 2022.

Gandy Gives Back

Although Broadway shut down during COVID, Gandy, a stroke survivor, rallied press, friends, and celebrities to give back. “During the pandemic there were food insecurities. I got my celebrity friends to donate thousands of dollars’ worth of food,” she said. “We partnered with Silicon Harlem so they could put laptops in families that had multiple kids, and laptops into the hands of seniors. We partnered with Harlem School of Nursing so families could see their elders.” “Irene has donated a lot of time giving back to the community,” said Voza Rivers, her co-producer of the national tour of Sarafina. Both Gandy and Rivers are on the board of Harlem Week and New Heritage Theatre. “She shares her success with young people and people in the community,” said Rivers.

Honors

Irene Gandy with David Alan Grier

advising Ricardo Khan at Crossroads Theatre in New Jersey. Interestingly, this year’s Broadway line-up of new plays—seven in total—are all written by Black playwrights. “Black theater companies have always—and without any revenues— are still bringing quality productions to communities,” said Gandy.

Gandy’s many honors in recognition of her impact include the National Action Network’s “Woman of Excellence Award; Vanguard Award from Black to Broadway Productions, Pioneer Award for BLACK PRIDE NYC, NAACP-LGBQT David Weaver Prize for Excellence in the Arts, and Café Mocha’s “Salute Her” Media Legend Award. Irene’s induction into the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center as part of The League of Professional Theatre Women’s Oral History Project on Film and Tape Archive is a lasting, public recognition of her work.

Irene and Mira Gandy

And Family, too.

Irene Gandy with Kerry Washingon

The Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre is also honoring Woodie King and veteran stage manager Beverly Jenkins. All three have Broadway and Black theater credentials. Currently, Gandy and Rivers are www.thepositivecommunity.com

While Irene was working Harlem Week, her daughter, artist Mira Gandy, was representing her on a special journey to Ghana. She escorted Viola Fletcher, 107, known as “Mother Fletcher”; and her brother, Hughes van Ellis, 100, known as “Uncle Red”; survivors of the 1921 Black Wall Street massacre in Tulsa Oklahoma. The Ghanaian government invited the Fletcher family to experience the Motherland. Mira, a University of Southern California grad and a visual artist, examines issues related to women, identity, and race. A community cultural activist, she is the founder of the Gandy Art House, which provides creative and healing arts projects for youth, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. Mira has helped her mother in the arts since childhood. “My daughter is my success,” said Gandy. “Mira is my excellence in life.” Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

L-R: Ambassador Jerry Kansis Kwabena and Rodney Leon

L-R: Honorable Diane Richardson, Honorable Stefani Zinerman, Councilman Robert Cornegy, Al Vann, Eric Edwards, NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie

Cultural Museum of African Art (CMAA) to be Built in BedStuy Gift from NYS Assembly Makes It Possible

early 70 people gathered in a sun-filled room at Beford Stuyvesant Restoration Plaza (BSRC) where NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblywoman Stefani Zinerman presented a $1 million check to Eric Edwards, founder and executive director of the Cultural Museum of African Art (CMAA). The gift will allow construction of a permanent home for the museum at BSRC. Curated by Edwards over the course of 50 years, CMAA contains more than 3,000 African artifacts, from all 54 countries on the African continent, spanning more than 4,000 years of human history. Restoration Plaza sits at the center of African culture in Brooklyn. Chosen to design the museum, world renowned architect Rodney Leon spoke about the many values the museum brings to Restoration Plaza as its newest cultural member. Leon also served as architect of the African Burial Ground National Monument (ABG) in Lower Manhattan, as well as the “Ark of Return,” a permanent installation at United Nations Plaza. Anatolio Mba, Ambassador of Equatorial Guinea and longtime supporter of CMAA, highlighted the important role stories of origin carry during

Photos: Noa Hines

L-R: Eric Edwards and Ambassador Anatolio Mba

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

his remarks. Brooklyn Ambassador Jerry KansisKwabena, from the office of the Brooklyn Borough President; and Lee Church, representing US Congressman Hakeem Jeffries; expressed their gratitude that CMAA will have a powerful presence in the community as it welcomes young people through its doors over the course of any given day. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer sent resounding words of congratulations and support for CMAA via video recording. BSRC will serve as home to CMAA’s “Survival Exhibition” featuring approximately 220 artifacts jointly curated by Edwards and multidisciplinary artist Sanford Biggers, whose work installed at Oracle, Rockefeller Center, 2021 was also inspired by artifacts from the collection. “The historic 56th District is a global destination for art and culture. We are home to the AUDELCO and Obie Award-winning Billie Holiday Theatre in Bedford Stuyvesant and the Weeksville Heritage Center in Crown Heights,” said Assemblywoman Zinerman during her remarks. “Therefore, it is only fitting that after years of searching, the Eric Edwards Collection will finally become an integral part of our artistic landscape.” Assembly Speaker Heastie agreed adding, “The preservation of history, specifically African American history, has often times been overlooked. Investments like these ensure that African art and its rich history can be studied and enjoyed by future generations. I am honored to have worked with Assemblywoman Zinerman to make this grant available to the Cultural Museum of African Art (CMAA), and thank CMAA for their efforts in keeping our legacy alive. www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

L-R: Manhattan Borough President Hon. Gale A. Brewer, Esteban Munoz, and Associate Professor Dr. Victoria Ngo.

Danita, manager of the Bradhurst Superfoodtown, serving the community.

Dr. Theresa Mack (back center) and Mt. Sinai staff provide testing for a community resident.

Damon Griffith, 8, receives a painting lesson from Harlem-based artist Gwendolyn Black.

A resident signs for up the CUNY Graduate L-R: Rev. James A. Booker with HCCI President and CEO Dr. Malcolm A. Punter. School of Public Health and Health Policy.

L-R: Shana Harmongoff, Earnestine M. Bell-Temple, Carlisa Brown Simons.

L-R: Associate Professor of Community Health and Social Sciences and Deputy Director of the IMH Center at CUNY Dr. Victoria Ngo and students.

HCCI Hosts “Harlem Revive: A Community Day of Unity” Focus on Community Health & Wellness at Jackie Robinson Park

n Saturday, August 17, 2017, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) presented “Harlem Revive: A Community Day of Unity,” a social, emotional, spiritual, and financial health revival for Harlem community residents. Focusing on health and wellness, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Superfoodtown of Bradhurst, Sun River Health, Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York Test & Trace, CUNY School of Public Health, NYPD PSA 6 Team, H&N Insurance Agency and Financial Group, Inc. sponsored the festive event. Civic leaders, elected officials, and of course, the community turned out for the event. “This year, it was extremely important for us to come

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

together and demonstrate unity,” said HCCI President/ CEO Malcolm A. Punter. “The past year and a half have been difficult for us all. But through events like Harlem Revive!, we are able to re-engage the community and demonstrate the strength found in unity.” Celebrating 35 years of service, HCCI is an interfaith consortium of congregations committed to the comprehensive redevelopment of the Harlem community. Since 1986, HCCI has been committed to the holistic revitalization of Harlem by providing economic development opportunities and empowerment of Harlem residents to rebuild their community. To learn more about HCCI programs please visit www.hcci.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

THE 19TH ANNUAL IMAGENATION OUTDOORS FESTIVAL

Free Film Screenings and Music

mageNation Cinema Foundation’s 19th Annual ImageNation Outdoors Festival kicked off Friday August 13th and continues through September 10th. The month-long program offers free film screenings and music in outdoor venues! This year’s festival includes a sidebar, the Rejoice/Resist Festival on August 29 and 30. ImageNation was also proud to be honored by Harlem Week on Saturday, August 14th at St. Nicholas Park. This summer’s official slate includes: The Kids Night Out program featuring The Wiz and copresented by East River Plaza. System K, Renaud Barrett’s stunning documentary about street artists in Kinshasa; the 2019 Academy Award-winning short film Hair Love by Matthew Cherry will also screen; as well as short works by New York City-based filmmakers including: Christine Turner’s Betye Saar: Taking Care of Business; two films from HCCI Filmmaker Training Program -- Sheila Prevost’s Dusk, Mask, Soul and Ashley Denise Robinson’s Dead Beat; and Adventures of Booga and Mommy by Jermaine Smith will also be featured in the festival. A new partnership with the Rejoice/Resist Festival will feature a sidebar including a block party with an outdoor art exhibit, vendors, a panel discussion on activism, and screenings from the RIZZLE/ RejoiceResist film collection on Sunday, August 29th.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

On Monday August 30th, Black Public Media will copresent PBS’s award winning film The Neutral Ground, a documentary about memory, monuments, and America’s confederate past. This year, ImageNation Outdoors is supported by Bronx Terminal Market’s Films on the Rooftop, East River Plaza, Black Public Media, Harlem Week, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Rejoice/Resist Film Festival, and the Frederick Douglass Blvd. Alliance. A host of media and outreach partners including: the Harlem News, The Positive Community, Harlemworld, Harlem 2020, Experience Harlem, Harlem OneStop, Reelblack TV, Kids Passport to Adventure, Urbanworld, Injoy Enterprises and more, support this community affair. Launched in 2002 with a single screening for 300 people, ImageNation Outdoors has grown to draw nearly 10,000 attendees each summer. ImageNation Outdoors is the only summer-long festival dedicated to films and music about the Black global experience. “Post COVID-19, we are excited to return to a more robust outdoor season,” says ImageNation founder Moikgantsi Kgama. “This year is all about fun! We programmed a NYC indie horror premiere, anime, lots of family-friendly kids programs, and shorts from local directors. There’s something for everyone!” Visit ImageNation at: www.imagenation.us Back to School 2021 The Positive Community

The Last Word BY R.L. WITTER

FINDING A BIT OF MUCH-NEEDED HOPE

often turn to music to keep me company while I work. Sometimes it offers inspiration, other times it’s just some background noise to help pass the time and keep me on track. While my husband is all about the beats, I’ve always been more interested in and connected to lyrics. Lately, I’ve been feeling down. The isolation due to COVID-19 has finally permeated my shell of reading, crocheting, cooking, and doing jigsaw puzzles. I’ve had to take breaks from social media. While my friends and family have been enjoying the summer together on the Vineyard and Fire Island, or gathering for cookouts in a cousin’s backyard, Hubby and I have been spending an incredibly hot and wet summer in Arizona. The dry heat touted in odes to desert living is nowhere to be found. Instead, it’s been 105° days followed by evenings and overnights of thunderstorms that shook the house and lightning that caused prolonged glimpses of daylight. The moisture begat weeds, which encouraged allergies and insects. Thus, we’ve been relegated to staying inside with the air conditioner on full blast; not quite ideal for socializing during this pandemic. I’ve found myself humming and singing Dionne Farris’ 1997 hit, “Hopeless” repeatedly. “They say I’m hopeless/Like a penny with a hole in it/They say I’m no less/Than up

The Positive Community Back to School 2021

to my head in it.” I have been feeling hopeless regarding the pandemic. We’ve been vaccinated and more than careful (thus only socializing outdoors). One of the most difficult parts of this whole thing has been not seeing the young children in our lives. We’ve not seen our favorite 6-year-old since March 2020 and have yet to meet his 3-month-old sister. While Zoom and FaceTime are great, they’re simply not the same as coloring at the kitchen table with our favorite four- and seven-year-olds. And we’ve not enjoyed Sunday football with their parents because the kids aren’t vaccinated. Thankfully, late August brought FDA approval for the Pfizer vaccine, which will hopefully inspire more adults and teens over 16 to get the jab. The emergency use authorization for 12- to 15-year-olds opened up the possibilities for us to see our older nieces and nephews, and we’re grateful. Now, as we contemplate booster shots and the fact that we will continue to live with COVID for an indefinite amount of time, there’s a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel. No, the younger kids still cannot be vaccinated, but perhaps they can be better insulated by older siblings, teachers, and parents who are all vaccinated, thus lowering their risk of infection until they, too, can be vaccinated. As we say goodbye to our Arizona summer, we look forward to enjoying fall afternoons of football and grilling, and being able to hear about the latest high school happenings in person. Now, I’m humming a different tune, one by India Arie: “There’s hope/It doesn’t cost a thing to smile/ You don’t have to pay to laugh/You better thank God for that.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

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The Positive Community Back to School 2021

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Back to School 2021

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The Last Word