February 2014 by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

February 2014

™ www.thepositivecommunity.com $2.95

Historic Black Churches in New York City

Pioneers in Health

EXCLUSIVE: EXCLUSIVE DR. KHALIL GIBRAN

MUHAMMAD SCHOMBURG CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN BLACK CULTURE

Guest Editorial: Rev. Herbert Daughtry

Black History is American History During Black History Month students throughout the country will learn about the achievements of African Americans throughout American History. But let’s never forget that Black History is American History. African Americans have played a critical role in weaving this rich tapestry we call America. Let’s reflect on the contributions of African Americans in building this nation not just in February, but throughout the year.

“We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race.” Kofi Annan

Former Secretary-General of the U.N.

New Jersey Education Association… working for great public schools for every child.

Wendell Steinhauer, President Marie Blistan, Vice President Sean M. Spiller, Secretary-Treasurer Edward Richardson, Executive Director Steven Swetsky, Assistant Executive Director

Columbia University Celebrates Black History Month Dr. Charles R. Drew As an African American physician during the Jim Crow era, Charles R. Drew faced a number of challenges in pursuing his research into blood plasma, including at Columbia, where he received a doctorate of medical science degree in 1940 from the College of Physicians and Surgeons. But Drew persevered, going on to discover that red blood cells, or plasma, could be separated, dried, and reconstituted, making it possible to “bank” blood for long periods of time. This work led to his development of the world’s first blood bank and improved techniques for blood storage. He also challenged the scientific fallacy of racial segregation in blood donation. To learn more about this key part of our local and national history, visit www.columbia.edu/blackhistory.

Photo: Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

Februar y 2014

CONTENTS

COVER STORY Exclusive: Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad

35 Cover Photo: Brian Branch Price

Features

MONEY ........................................12

Local Businesses Win with Super Bowl ............12

HEALTH ........................................20

Technology Lessons for Winter Weather ...........16

EDUCATION ..................................32

Salute to Excellence: Fritz Pollard Foundation ...18 Pioneers in Black History and Health ..............20 Top Health Care Trends ...................................22 There's Still Time for Love ...............................30 NCAA Dream Concert ......................................32

CULTURE ......................................46

&also inside

Schomburg Center ..........................................35

Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

New York's Historic Black Churches ................42

My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Get Funky with Black Animation! .....................46 GospelFests' Record-Breaking Choir ...............52

Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Jamaican Maroons Celebrate! ........................54

Selah! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Your Power as a Consumer .............................58 100 Black Women ..........................................60 Celebrating MLK in NY & NJ ............................62 4

The Positive Community February 2014

The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Here’s to tUrNING GreAt CHALLeNGes INto GreAter oPPortUNItY For eVerYoNe.

Step by step, America has made important strides toward becoming a more inclusive society. One where everyone has a voice and equal access to opportunity.

At Prudential, that’s an ideal we continue to aspire to every day.

It’s an ideal that helps drive our organization with the diverse perspectives and talents of our employees, some of whom you see here. It’s reflected in the solutions we create, and in the work we do in our communities.

And it’s an ideal that drives an understanding of the needs of our markets – and innovations tied to those needs.

LIV

TR BL

All to help people meet the financial challenges they face today and tomorrow.

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© 2014. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Prudential Financial, Inc. and its affiliates, Newark, NJ, are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers and are committed to diversity in its workplace. Prudential is an Employer that participates in E-Verify. 0256620-00001-00

Unexpected discoveries Unforgettable experiences

at the Newark Museum

Party Time: Re-imagine America A Centennial Commission by Yinka Shonibare MBE

on view thru

11.09.2014 Made possible through the generous support of

Additional support has been provided by Ellyn and Saul Dennison

American Chronicles:

The Art of Norman Rockwell on view thru

05.26.2014 always exciting.

newarkmuseum.org web 49 washington street, newark, new jersey 973.596.6550 711 On-site parking available

tel

tty

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell has been organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. American Chronicles has been made possible by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Publication support has been provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Media sponsorship has been provided by the Curtis Publishing Company and by the Norman Rockwell Family Agency. Conservation support has been provided by the Stockman Family Foundation.

New Jersey C ouNCil for the humaNities

The Newark Museum presentation of this exhibition is made possible by: Major support provided by:

The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation

Official Airline

Supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. This exhibition was made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendation in this exhibition, do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or the New Jersey Council for the Humanities. Triple Self-Portrait, Cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, February 13, 1960, ÂŠ1960: SEPS, Norman Rockwell Museum Collection

Roll Call for PC_Jan_14.qxd:Roll Call for PC Document.qxd 2/18/14 3:06 PM Page 1

GREAT

R C OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.00 each (one-third of the cover price) or support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com

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

Ebenezer B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Jovan Troy Davis, M.Div.

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

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

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

Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor

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

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

Empire Missionary B.C., Convention NY Rev. Dr. Ronald Grant, President

St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe

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

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. Vernon Walton, Pastor Mt. Calvary United Methodist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Tisha M. Jermin Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor

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

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

The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor

First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor

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

Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev. Alfonzo Williams, Sr., Pastor Agape Christian Ministries Worship Ctr. 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 Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Jasper E. Peyton, Interim Pasto Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor

Evening Star B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Washington Lundy, Pastor

First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President

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

Grace & Restoration Fellowship, Paterson, NJ Jerry Wilder, Sr., Pastor

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

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

Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Dr. Gadson L. Graham

Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor

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

Greater Faith Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA Rev. Larry L. Marcus

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

Greater Friendship Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. John Teabout, Pastor

Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem, NY Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor

Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Drek E. Broomes, President & CEO It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Lagree Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Wayland Williams, Jr., Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter

Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor

Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

Businesses & Organizations 125th St. BID African American Heritage Parade American Diabetes Association American Heart Association, Northern, NJ Brown Executive Realty LLC, Morristown, NJ City National Bank Essex County College, NJ Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Medgar Evers College Mildred Crump, Newark City Council Muslim American Chamber of Commerce NAACP New Jersey* NAACP, NY State Conference* New Brunswick Theological Seminary New Jersey Performing Arts Center New York Theological Seminary New York Urban League Newark School of Theology Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Schomburg Center The College of New Rochelle United Way of Essex and West Hudson WBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. WKMB-1070AM

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

“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

REV. HERBERT D. DAUGHTRY GUEST EDITORIAL

Rev. Herbert D. Daughtry is Pastor of House of the Lord Church, Brooklyn, NY

The Need for a Cultural Revolution t’s February once again and time to celebrate our history in this country. There was a time when we turned away from everything black or African. Then, we got ourselves a whole month and as long as we confined our thinking and activities to slavery, Booker T. Washington, and, occasionally George Washington Carver — it was okay. We could even mention Africa as long as it was about jungles, wild animals, and uncivilized savages. Even our Asian, Euro-ethnic adversaries joined our celebration. They would honor us by coming to our programs, where we felt bound to confess how much we loved everybody, even slave masters and their offspring. As soon as February was gone, all too often for too many of us, activities ceased. All of our “African stuff” went back into the closet for another year. For as long as anyone can remember, it was taught that the oppressors/enslavers/racists knew better than the enslaved and the oppressed and that the knowledge of history was a stick of dynamite in their plan to perpetuate the status quo. Conversely, the ignorance of history is the death — mentally and, eventually physically — of any people. The Bible says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The lack of knowledge referenced here relates to history and the God who acts in history. In his book, The Destruction of Black Civilization, Chancellor Williams, quoted a Sumer legend, “What became of the Black People of Sumer?” the traveler asked the old man, “for ancient records show that the people of Sumer were Black. What happened to them?” “Ah,” the old man sighed. “They lost their history, so they died . . .” Our history was not lost. It was stolen as George G.M. James wrote in his book, Stolen Legacy (Reading materials, which should be in the library and required reading for all people of African ancestry, include the abovementioned books, as well as How Europe Underdeveloped Africa by Dr. Walter Rodney; Capitalism and Slavery by Eric Williams; and, everything written by Drs. Ivan Van Sertimer, John Henry Clarke, and J.A. Rogers.). What our enemies could not steal, they distorted and/or eradicated. The importance of history cannot be overemphasized, for history is related to who we are — our identity. Our identity influences everything — our theolo-

8 The Positive Community

February 2014

gy (the study of God), our teleology (study of the purposefulness of nature), our eschatology (our study of the end times), and yes, even our politics. If we would believe we are the children of kings and queens, mighty warriors, scholars, inventors, builders of civilizations, or, in religious terms, “children of God,” a profound self-love and appreciation would suffuse our entire being. We would be driven to resist any oppressive forces that attempt to deny our dignity and our rights and/or the rights of others. The late Dr. John Henrik Clarke told the story of a teenage girl in his class. She was listless, uninterested in school, and on the road to destruction. The staff decided on a strategy; they would relate her to the African Queen Nzinga. They would say, “You must be the daughter of the great Queen Nzinga. You look like her, and you walk like her.” The girl began to manifest remarkable changes. Her posture became erect. Her eyes brightened. She became studious and well-behaved. Once this young lady located herself to a great African Queen, it changed her life. Moreover, it is our responsibility and sacred duty to be knowledgeable about our history and pass it on to our children. Even God expresses concern regarding history. When Joshua took over the leadership of the Hebrew Israelites from Moses, he came to the Jordan River. God gave him instructions on how he was to cross the river. God instructed Joshua that once on the other side, he was to take 12 stones representing the 12 tribes of Israel, and leave them there. So, in the years to come, when the children should ask, “What is the meaning of the stones?” they would be told the great things that God did for their fathers and mothers. Significantly, God places the responsibility upon the parents. “You shall teach them about your history.” It has been said that every generation needs a cultural revolution. If there were ever a generation that confirmed this truth, it is this present bling-bling, violent generation of wasted opportunities, self-absorption, and ignorance of history and culture. We thank God for those of our people, especially those young people, who are grounded in our history and culture and whose lives are committed to making the world a better place for all of God’s children. www.thepositivecommunity.com

A Timeless Posession!

The Grand Jubilee Calendar

he Positive Community’s Cultural Literacy Initiative presents the 2014 Grand

Jubilee Calendar commemorating the 150th sesquicentennial anniversary season of the Great Emancipation. This year’s theme: Faith Freedom and the Future, Coming Up Through Great Tribulation. It’s a celebration of the beauty and dignity of a people. The words and images a reflection of truth and goodness—thoughts and ideals. It is the ecumenical faith and worship experience of the contemporary African Diaspora as seen through the lens of photographer Bob Gore.

Own this precious document as a spiritual and cultural anchor for our times. Value your calendar as a faith/ freedom investment into the health and prosperity of future generations—the next 50 years of freedom! Preview online www.thepositivecommunity.com

Support Cultural Literacy! Invest in the Future—Now! Own the Grand Jubilee Calendar just $19.99 Ask about special bulk/group rates

The 2014 Grand Jubilee Calendar

CALL TODAY: 973-233-9200

Send Check or Money Order to: Grand Jubilee Calendar c/o The Positive Community 133 Glenridge Ave. Montclair, NJ 07042

REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

Rev. Nance is pastor of The Church by the Side of the Road in Passaic, NJ. She is also a radio talk show host and documentary filmmaker.

LISTEN TO THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY HOUR ON WKMB 1070 AM HARVEST RADIO, MONDAYS, 1:30–2:30 P.M. WITH HOST THERESA NANCE.

Ain’t No Stopping Us Now

ey, it’s Black History Month. I looked around and said to myself, "We’re gonna be inundated for 28 days with the contributions and/or achievements of a people who were brought to these shores in a most precarious situation. Yeah, that’s what I said. You would think the educational suits by now would have included this history in the regular core curricula of mainstream education. But, no. No such luck. That’s why we have our own “talking drum” to keep the history alive. But there is a matter of grave concern to this writer. We appear to be losing many of our communication resources that were unique to our community. There’s a dearth of black magazines on the newsstands. Black newspaper publications are an endangered species, so to speak. Remember the Afro-American publications? Oh, there’s more. The demise of these important resources seems to be rule and not the exception, much to my cha-

grin. But I’ve learned and seen that the collective spirit of black America cannot be doused with disappointments, or dampened by that which has been taken or removed. Recently, I was on the program with the Rev. Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant at the St. Luke Baptist Church in Paterson, where the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Clayton is senior pastor. Dr. Bryant reminded the jam-packed audience that the folks on Capitol Hill (legislators) were revisiting the Voting Rights Act. And, you thought folks like Bull Connor were dead. Connor was the commissioner of public safety in Alabama during the civil rights movement. Well, the more things change, the more things stay the same. Many from the larger community used to say, you people should exercise your voting franchise. We did. Now, some of them don’t like it, so as usual, they want to change the rules in the middle of the game. But, do they really know who black folks are? They’re a people who have been despised all over the globe. They set trends that are stolen, create music that is emulated, made hog maws and chitlins’ a delicacy—and survived the Middle Passage to have an African descendant become president of the United States. The late poet Amiri Baraka used to ask the question, “What time is it?” The refrain, “It’s nation time.” Still is ‘cause like Langston Hughes’ character in his classic poem, “Life For Me Ain’t Been No Crystal Stair,” we, too, will keep a climbin’. We have no other choice. We’ve come too far and the haters and hindering hands cannot stop something they never had the power to start.

But, do they really know who black folks are? They’re a people who have been despised all over the globe. They set trends that are stolen, create music that is emulated, made hog maws and chitlins’ a delicacy—and survived the Middle Passage to have an African descendant become president of the United States. 10 The Positive Community

February 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Pride of New York

Borough of Manhattan Community College, Queens College Vice Chairperson, CUNY Board of Trustees President, Philip Berry Associates LLC.

Lowell Hawthorne

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Bronx Community College President and CEO, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill

Robert T. Johnson

City College of New York District Attorney, Bronx County; Former Acting Justice of New York, State Supreme Court

Ayodele Oti

‰

Walter Mosley

City College of New York Award-Winning Author Founder, City College Publishing Certificate Program

Macaulay Honors College at City College of New York Truman Scholar 2011

The City University of New York Celebrates Black History Month.

VISIT WWW.CUNY.EDU 1-800-CUNY-YES CUNY-TV CHANNEL 75

Baruch College Founder, Chairman & CEO Mitchell & Titus LLP

Iyanla Vanzant

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Colin Powell

City College of New York Former U.S. Secretary of State, Former Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff

Bert Mitchell

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Jasmine Hatcher

CUNY Graduate Center NSF Scholar 2013

Philip Berry

Hunter College Award-Winning Stage, Film Actress and Screenwriter

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Eric Adams

John Jay College of Criminal Justice Brooklyn Borough President Former NY State Senator

Ruby Dee

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Shirley Chisholm

Brooklyn College Former Congresswoman and Candidate for Democratic Presidential Nomination In Memoriam

Medgar Evers College, CUNY Law School Best-selling Author, Inspirational Speaker

Money B u s i n ess , M o n e y & w o r k

Four Local Businesses Score Big at Super Bowl MZM president and CEO Marjorie Perry

ost of the attention during Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium focused on the match-up between the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos, and the pre-game events held throughout New York City. However, there are four Essex County small businesses for which the Super Bowl was much more than a game—it meant business. Vonda’s Kitchen, MZM Construction and Management, Eagle Detective Agency and Symphony Printing all won contracts for services they provided in and around events associated with the big game–thanks to the Essex County Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action (SBDAA), which served as the link between the Super Bowl Committee and the Essex County business community. “Small businesses make up the backbone of our local economy and opportunities such as working with the NFL can expose them to larger audiences and help them expand and grow their businesses,” SBDAA Director Deborah E. Collins. Symphony Printing, led by Lee Johnson, said he learned about business opportunities through the Essex County SBDAA. The experience has been very rewarding for Johnson, who has completed several large printing jobs for the Super Bowl and other events related to the game. Besides the contract, Johnson has attended a number of workshops hosted by the NFL, where he has established relationships with other vendors and suppliers, and gained valuable insight from guest speakers, including Disney executives and NFL alumni who now

The Positive Community February 2014

own their own businesses. “Opportunities like this will help us and also help the region,” said Johnson. Would you have thought that a detective agency would find work with the Super Bowl? Well, The Eagle Detective Agency, headed by James Davis, did. Johnson’s agency provided 50 security guards for various venues where pre-Super Bowl events took place and 150 people for the actual game. “This certainly is a big responsibility,” Davis said. “We’ve had to hire additional staff, so this has helped empower and enhance people by putting them to work at a very high-profile event. We’re hoping this will enhance our business and help us receive larger contracts in the future.” Vonda’s Kitchen, owned by Vonda McPherson, worked on several NFL-related events—trade shows for the NFL at the Meadowlands and at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, feeding over 500 people at each event. On game day, she catered the tailgate party at the Meadowlands Racetrack for 10,000 people. McPherson’s relationship with the NFL began with a referral from SBDAA Director Collins, who represented Essex County on the nine-member Super Bowl Business Advisory Board. "She referred me to the Super Bowl Committee and was instrumental in my getting an opportunity to cater the trade shows, which led to my getting the tailgate party contract," McPherson explained. “I thank Essex County so very much for putting my name in the right hands! This experience has been a positive one and I am so grateful for this opportunity.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

MZM Construction and Management, which is led by President and CEO Marjorie Perry, received a contract to remove snow from the seating bowl, concourses, stair ramps and plaza areas at MetLife Stadium. The East Rutherford stadium is not foreign for Perry’s firm, which worked on a project to ensure worker safety during construction of the stadium. "When Super Bowl goes looking, you have to be ready. I was already in their system because I helped build MetLife Stadium and understood the game. When they found this out, they gave me the job,” Perry said. “While acknowledging that it's hard to be a new kid on the block when bidding on Super Bowl XLVIII business, you have to be persistent, attend the workshops and keep bidding,” she noted. The Essex County Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action has a mission to ensure equal opportunity in the procurement and contracting processes of Essex County through strategic partnerships, outreach, technical assistance, and collaborative partnerships. “We are pleased that the NFL Super Bowl Committee recognized the professionalism and first-class services being provided by these four Essex County businesses,” remarked Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo. “These contracts give our small businesses the opportunity to promote their companies and provide jobs for local residents.” For information about future programs, please call the Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action at 973-621-2011. www.thepositivecommunity.com

HEAVY CIVIL CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES

Columbia University Bronx-Whitestone Bridge Bronx River Parkway 7th & 8th Ave Vent Plant

2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes

E.E. Cruz welcomes the participation of disadvantaged, minority-owned, woman-owned, and local (D/M/W/LBE) businesses on all of its projects. E.E. Cruz also recruits female, local and minority union workers. For all projects, we are looking for highly qualified M/W/LBE union workers and D/M/W/LBE subcontractors and vendors certified for heavy civil construction. If you are an M/W/LBE union worker or you are a federal, state, or city certified D/M/W/LBE company involved in heavy civil construction work, please contact us at (212) 431-3993 or dmwlbe@eecruz.com. *** E.E. Cruz is part of a Joint Venture with Tully Construction Co. Inc. on the 2nd Avenue Subway Project and part of a Joint Venture with Nicholson Construction Company on the Columbia University project.

February 2014 The Positive Community

Central Jersey CDC Recognition Breakfast

he Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC) gathered to celebrate their 20th Anniversary during the Annual CJCDC Corporate Recognition Breakfast at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick, New Jersey. There were over 300 attendees who donated and came to support the efforts of this corporation. The breakfast opened with words from the emcee of the hour, Brittni Smallwood, followed by remarks of the Regional President of Southern New Jersey’s Wells Fargo, Brenda Ross-Dulan. Following the breakfast was a ribbon cutting for the DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. Senior Residences located at 630 Franklin Blvd., Somerset, NJ. The 64-unit building named after Dr. Soaries was a project taken on by CJCDC in effort to help seniors and veterans to afford housing in the Somerset Community. “Twenty years ago we embarked upon the mission of revitalizing the neighborhood along the Route 27 corridor south of the St. Peter’s cemetery.” said Dr. Soaries. “Today we celebrate the tangible outcomes of our endeavors. We have never had much money, but from the beginning we have always had a well-defined vision and loyal partners.”

NJ Association Of Black Social Workers Mental Health In The African American Community Conference Keynote: Dr. Sidney Hankerson III

MD., MBA Psychiatrist, Columbia University

March 15, 2014 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.) Breakfast & Lunch

St. John Baptist Church, 2387 Morse Ave, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 WORKSHOP 2 WORKSHOP 1 Starting and Maintaining a Group Traumatic Event and Effects Drew Johnson LCSW Viva White LCSW WORKSHOP 3 In Our Voice (A Recovery Education Presentation) MANI NJ

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The Positive Community February 2014

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One history. Countless heroes. Celebrating our nation’s promise and progress. Black history isn’t just words on a page. It echoes in the footsteps of civil rights marchers. It comes to life with the words of great leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. And it continues to ripple through generations, changing us all for the better. Wells Fargo honors Black history, which is American history. Wells Fargo is proud to present The Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey — Where Art and History Intersect. This nationally touring exhibition helps share the often untold story of African American achievements and contributions to American history. Join us in our celebration and visit wellsfargo.com/kinseycollection to learn more.

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1/6/14 10:18 AM

Five Technology Lessons Learned from this Winter’s Weather

he recent brutal winter weather should serve as a reminder for business owners: even the best-laid plans can be wrecked by natural and manmade disasters. Across the South and Mid-Atlantic, thousands of car accidents, at least a dozen fatalities, and untold numbers of stranded drivers and students were blindsided by the snow and ice that descended on the region. Here are the lessons that CMIT Solutions gleaned from such widespread impacts: 1. In the event of travel restrictions, all companies should be prepared to have employees telecommute. Chambers of commerce across the country reported hundreds of millions of dollars in combined lost revenue, wages, and production due to last week’s major storm. And that makes sense: employee and customer safety should be of the utmost concern when snow and ice descend on an unprepared region... (Click here to read more) 2. Critical business data needs to be accessible to all pertinent parties. Of course, employees can only telecommute if they have access to important business information. Utilizing the cloud to host that data and make it available to key personnel... (Click here to read more) 3. Even in the midst of a snow-pocalypse, business continuity will ensure that your company stands out. When whole metropolitan areas are paralyzed by snow and ice, we all expect many companies to shut down as well. If your business is closed, you should still maintain communication via email, either through smartphones, webmail applications like CMIT RADAR, or cloud-based applications like CMIT Anywhere... (Click here to read more)

The Positive Community February 2014

Is your computer guy driving you crazy? 4. Make sure you or your IT provider are performing regular remote backups. In the event of long-term electrical grid outages or even damage to your physical office, trustworthy backups can be a lifesaver for your business. Off-site backups are often stored in multiple locations to account for the possibility of widespread power failures... (Click here to read more) 5. Develop a disaster recovery plan that covers the “before,” “during,” and “after” phases of a major storm. Before a storm arrives, all employees should be signed up with an CMIT emergency texting Technology service that can immediately is Your Team transmit announcements... (Click here to read more)

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L–R: Actress Devyn Tyler, (12 Years a Slave); Rev. Gregory Jackson, Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ; James Shack Harris; the event’s host, Maruice DuBois, WNBC-TV News; actress Deneen Tyler also in 12 Years a Slave and Samuel G. Freedman

Salute to Excellence

Jerry Reese, Giants’ SVP and GM with his wife, Gwen

Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation presents Johnnie L. Cochran Awards During Super Bowl

The Positive Community February 2014

Photos: Don Small

n the eve of the XLVIII Super Bowl, on Super Bowl Boulevard in Times Square at the Viacom Headquarters, more than 200 African American NFL coaches, senior personnel executives, current and former football players, executives, celebrities, families and friends gathered to celebrate the achievements of persons who displayed outstanding performance through the year on the field and in front offices in the National Football League. This year’s ceremony included presentations of NFL Head Coaches and Executives’ Awards to Katie Blackburn, executive VP, Cincinnati Bengals; Jimmy Raye, Jr., VP of Football Operations, Indianapolis Colts; Paraag Marathe, president/CEO, San Francisco 49ers; Marvin Lewis, head coach, Cincinnati Bengals; Ron Rivera, head coach, Carolina Panthers; Commissioner Paul Tagliabue; Ann Mara, owner of the New York Giants, and recipients of the NCAA Head Coaches’ Awards. Maurice Dubois, news anchor, WCBS-TV, New York, was the master of ceremonies. Highlights of the evening included recognition of James “Shack” Harris, the first African American in NFL history to be drafted (eighth round) as a starting quarterback in 1969 for the Buffalo Bills. “Shack” played for several teams and led the L.A. Rams to the Super Bowl 40 years ago. He is currently a senior personnel executive for the Detroit Lions. Poignant remarks were given by Samuel G. Freedman, tenured professor of journalism at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, columnist for The New York Times, and awardwinning author of seven acclaimed books, most recently, Breaking the Line: The Season in Black College Sports that Transformed the Sport and Changed the Course of the Civil Rights, which chronicles the fierce competition between two rival legendary football coaches, Grambling’s Eddie Robinson, and Florida A&M’s Jake Gaither, and their star quarterbacks, James Harris and Ken Riley. Together they helped change the face of sports in the south and the National Football League during a pivotal time in America’s history. —JNW

Jim Brown, Pro Football Hall of Famer L–R: Harry Carson, Pro Football Hall of Famer and executive director of FPA; James Shack Harris and Samuel G. Freedman

The Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation, which aims to increase access and opportunity for minorities interested in coaching, front office and scouting positions in the National Football League, is named for the first black head coach in professional football. He was born in Chicago on January 27, 1894. In high school, he played football, baseball, and ran track. Pollard attended Brown University, majoring in chemistry, and played half-back on the Brown football team, which went to the 1916 Rose Bowl. He became the first black player to be named to the Walter Camp All-America team. He later played pro football with the Akron Pros, the team he would lead to the NFL (APFA) championship in 1920. In 1921, he became the co-head coach of the Akron Pros, while still maintaining his roster position as running back. Pollard, along with all nine of the black players in the NFL at the time, was removed from the league at the end of the 1926 season, never to return again. He spent some time organizing all-black barnstorming teams, including the Chicago Black Hawks in 1928 and the Harlem Brown Bombers in the 1930s. In 2005, Fritz Pollard was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He appears as a free agent in Madden NFL 09 and Madden NFL 10 and is also a part of the game's Hall of Fame feature.

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Mayor Luis LuisA. A.Quintana Quintana Mayor

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Health

P R E V E N T I O N , T R E AT M E N T & C U R E

Pioneers in Health and Medicine t’s amazing how in 2014 Black History still isn’t recognized as part of American History. Even more incredulous is how the same few people and events are highlighted annually in February while so many fascinating figures and accomplishments seem to go unnoticed and unmentioned. It seems appropriate that as we usher in the age of the Affordable Care Act, “Obamacare,” we recognize that a black president initiated affordable healthcare, just as many medical firsts in America were and continue to be accomplished by people of African descent. In the early 1700s, Onesimus, an African slave, saved thousands of lives in Massachusetts, across America and the world by recounting African medical knowledge to his owner, Cotton Mather. As a smallpox epidemic swept through Massachusetts, killing approximately 15 percent of those it infected, Onesimus explained to Mather that he was immune to the disease because he had been “variolated,” or what we now call inoculated, in Africa. He explained

By R.L. Witter

the centuries-old method that was practiced throughout Africa; it involved extracting material from the pustule of an infected person and, using a thorn to scratch it into the skin of an unaffected person. The inoculation procedure protected most people from becoming infected with smallpox, while others suffered a milder, non-fatal form of the disease. After inoculation, there was only a two percent fatality rate, saving countless lives. Dr. Daniel Hale Williams is another name that all Americans should know and respect. From humble beginnings, he worked his way through medical school, began his own medical practice in Chicago and eventually opened Provident Hospital and Training School for Nurses, the first hospital in America with a racially integrated staff. When a man entered the hospital in 1893 with a severe stab wound to his chest, Williams successfully sutured the membranous sac enclosing the heart, becoming the first person to perform open-heart surgery. Dr. Williams accomplished this without the benefits of a blood transfusion or modern surgical procedures. Years later in the 1930s, Vivien Thomas was hired to do janitorial work in Dr. Alfred Blalock’s laboratory. Thomas’ mental acumen and remarkably steady hands led to him becoming Blalock’s largely uncredited research partner as they pioneered the field of cardiac surgery. Thomas performed an extremely complex atrial septectomy, which later became known as the “Blalock-Taussig procedure.” Despite his talents and accomplishments, Thomas was paid as a lab assistant and even worked part-time as a bartender while developing his surgical procedures until 1946 when he became the highest paid African American on the Johns Hopkins payroll. Thomas went on to hold the position of director of Surgical Research Laboratories and train surgical assistants and surgeons alike in his methods, despite having only a high school education. His students went on to become heads of surgery at various prestigious institutions and Thomas’ work is credited with having con-

Operating room-Frederick Douglass Memorial Hospital, founded in Philadelphia in 1895. National Library of Medicine

20 The Positive Community

February 2014

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Dr. Daniel Hale Williams

tributed considerably to the great reputation of Johns Hopkins University Medical School. Thirty years after his groundbreaking work, Thomas received an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University as restrictions prohibited him from receiving a Doctor of Medicine degree. But finally, Vivien Thomas was called “Doctor” by his students and colleagues. In 2004, HBO made a film based on his life called Something the Lord Made. And African American pioneers in Medicine continue today. Dr. Benjamin Carson became the youngest major division director in Johns Hopkins history, as director of Pediatric Neurosurgery. Dr. Carson is distinguished as the surgeon who theorized and put into practice the idea of using hypothermic arrest to perform the first successful separation of craniopagus twins, twins conjoined at the head. He also perfected the art of hemispherectomy, a procedure in which all or part of the brain is removed to control severe pediatric epilepsy. On the horizon stands Tony Hansberry, II. Hansberry made history in 2009 when he developed an improved suturing procedure that allows patients to be stitched up

Dr. Ben Carson

three times faster after hysterectomies. As if the new procedure wasn’t impressive enough, Hansberry was a 14-year-old high school freshman when he developed it. Now a student at Florida A&M University, Hansberry’s goal is to become a trauma surgeon. Black History is American History and there is so much more to it than what is generally taught in schools or seen in Black History articles and television specials. While we should explore and celebrate it year round, take the time to delve deeper into Black History this month and find yourself amazed and inspired by those who came before, and those who are taking the baton and running full speed, yet gracefully with it.

Tony Hansberry II

FAMU

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February 2014 The Positive Community

By Jean Nash Wells

Top 5 Health Care Consumer Trends for 2014

ith the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, and the advent of the empowered online health care consumer, there are a number of ways that the system is poised for transformation in 2014. Vitals.com is an online resource that enables health care consumer to make informed decisions about the quality and cost of their medical care. The company has come up with five trends for consumers to be aware of in 2014. 1. Wait Times Will Go Up. The demand for even more primary care services will inevitably go up and doctors will have less time to spend with patients in examination rooms and with follow-up care. For patients, it will mean appointments will become harder to schedule and wait times longer. 2. Patients Will Continue to Love Their Doctors. While it may seem counterintuitive that patients will continue to love their physicians even as they make them wait longer, health care consumers are becoming more savvy about choosing a doctor with whom they can build a lasting relationship. Today, more people go online first to research doctors to find that physician who is a better fit for them. In a recent Vitals Index survey, 56 percent of respondents said that they spend several days researching the right physician. And their work is paying off. Forty-five percent described their doctor as “the one.” That’s double the number of people who chose the same response in a similar survey last year. “More people than ever realize that online resources can help them find a better match when it comes to finding the right doctor,” said Mitch Rothchild, Vitals CEO. “Sites like Vitals can help consumers identify the doctors with the characteristics they are looking for, whether it be a good bedside manner or specific hospital affiliations.” 3. Urgent Care and Alternate Care Center Use Will Continue To Grow. In 2014, consumers have more options to choose from than just their primary care physician when they want or need to receive care. Urgent care centers are able to provide quick, walk in medical care for everything from skin irritations to the flu. Currently more than 9,000 urgent care facilities are operating today, with another 700 to 800 slated to open this coming year. At the same time,

The Positive Community February 2014

retailers like CVS and Walgreens have been opening more of their own clinics for access to low-cost care. 4. More Online Appointments. In 2005, only 6 percent of family doctors offered online appointment scheduling. Fast forward to 2013 and about 20 percent of practices allow online appointment requests either through patient portals or online scheduling services like Vitals. While 80 percent of health care consumers still prefer to make appointments “the old fashioned way” - over the phone. Changing demographics and the availability of technology to enable online scheduling will be key in changing consumer behavior. 5. Increase in the Power of Online Patient Reviews: Before we eat out or even choose a movie, many of us take to the web to read reviews and gain a level of confidence in our choice. And in 2014, more will turn to online reviews for comparing doctors, just like we do for other purchase decisions. When it comes to online reviews, most people believe that 5-6 reviews provide an accurate indicator of quality. And the reviews are having an impact. Almost 47 percent of the people who looked up a physician online felt differently about that doctor after viewing their profile. About 40 percent said they felt reassured or more comfortable with their choice after reading the review, while 7 percent said they felt the need to find a different doctor. In fact, as an indicator of quality, patient reviews were considered just as important as a doctor’s years of experience when it came to determining a doctor’s qualifications—both were selected by 76 percent of all respondents. While a doctor’ reputation and experience have always been important, it is clear indication that getting other patients’ feedback online has become a critical part of the selection process. Learn more at www.vitals.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR Kahlil Carmichael is the Pastor and Founder of It Is Well Living Church located in Monroe, NJ. He is the CEO of the Fitness Doctor Inc., a Fitness Rehabilitation and Wellness Consultation company. To contact Kahlil to become spiritually and physically fit visit www.itiswellchurch.com or call 732-921-3746

Zeal for Fitness according to the knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith. I join the Apostle Paul in this sentiment. It is my desire to see our community, our nation and the world grow spiritually and improve physically — void of the false beliefs and misinformation that keep us spiritually and physically unhealthy. Here are a few transformational truths to help you grow spiritually and improve physically in 2014: • Make exercise and prayer a daily habit analogous to brushing your teeth and putting on your socks. • Focus on healthy eating and portion control.

s a pastor and spiritual leader, I often witness faithful people of God zealous to achieve spiritual growth and enlightenment, but not according to knowledge and wisdom. Some of us are serving God for accolades, titles, and positions. Others, (whose motives may be pure) are trying to obtain something which God has already given; love, forgiveness, and acceptance! It has also been my experience as a fitness trainer and counselor to witness individuals who have zeal to improve their health and become physically fit try to do so, but not necessarily according to wisdom and knowledge. Many people, on their quest to lose weight, reverse the effects of obesity related illness or simply get super fit, start off with fervor and zeal only to lose motivation. Sadly, these enthusiastic people (although ardent for results), most often quit. Their reason for quitting? Glad you asked! It’s a lack of proper professional support and information. The Apostle Paul speaks of this type of misinformed zeal for God in Romans 10:1–8 (NRSV): Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. I can testify that they have a zeal for God, but it is not enlightened. For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.

Paul’s heart’s desire is for his fellow countrymen to experience God through faith in Christ. The Israelites (Paul’s countrymen) were zealous for God, but not

24 The Positive Community

February 2014

• Give up sweets and all sugars! That’s right, you heard me!!! • Understand that losing weight through consistent and intense exercise (specific to the individual), proper nutrition laced with discipline, and God’s grace and mercy, is the only way to keep the weight off and live a healthy life. • Get to your house of worship (church, mosque, temple, etc.) every week or according to your tradition. • Make exercise a family event. My wife and all of our children attend the gym as a family and “date night event” • Pray for your enemies! It makes them smaller so you can focus on getting healthy and living life to the full. • Invite me out to your church, house of worship, or faith-based organization to help your group begin or help your wellness program. Email pastor@itiswellchurch.com As we celebrate Black History Month as well as Heart Month this February, I encourage you to continue to get wisdom and understanding concerning your spiritual growth, physical fitness and health! It is my prayer for you, my brothers and sisters, that your zeal for life and your ardent spirit would allow you to live well through faith! Amen Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature. You should consult your physician or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or changing your dietary regimen. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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The Positive Community February 2014

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Aquaponics Program Brings the

politan Resurrection Community Development Corporation in Newark, the Passaic Riverand Back toPassaic Newark nt arm of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, the Lower Cooperating up (CPG), comprising civic-mindedBycompanies working to bring about a Donald Harris or as long as most of on its resi“This program a perfect to fit for “The residents fish exchange with is being iner, are pleased to partner an exciting pilotisproject provide dents can remember, the City the veterans we serve,” said Hu- troduced in order to reduce the a healthy food source. of Newark has been cut off bert Graham, Metropolitan Baptist human health risk associated with

from its most important natural resource, the Passaic River. Decades of abuse and neglect allowed physical and psychological barriers to separate the people from the River and, until recently, it has seemed like that separation would continue with no end in sight. Renewed interest in the River and its recreational and economic potential has spawned a series of initiatives to bring the River back to life and bring the people back to the River. The latest and most exciting project fueling this resurgence is the construction of a new Aquaponics Center on Prince Street that will reconnect people to the River in a unique and powerful way, while providing much needed jobs for City residents. This project is a partnership between the Metropolitan Reassertion Community Development Corporation (MRCDC), which is the development arm of Metropolitan Baptist Church and the Lower Passaic River Study Area Cooperating Parties Group (CPG), a group of companies dedicated to helping clean up the Lower Passaic. In close cooperation with the Veterans advocacy organization, GI Go Fund, and Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the new center aims to hire and train unemployed veterans to run an aquaponics program that will raise hybrid striped bass and vegetables in an area of the City where healthy food sources are badly needed. The program will also provide veterans with training in sustainable landscaping and stormwater management, river restoration and small business management.

Church trustee. “The skills they learn at the Center will be highly marketable and transferrable to other specialties such as landscaping and horticulture.” The Center will be one of a number of pilot projects funded by the CPG as part of a Sustainable Remedy for the Lower Passaic. The main component of the Sustainable Remedy would be the cleanup of the River itself, but this cleanup would be combined with a holistic approach to restoring the Passaic River, including green infrastructure programs like tree planting, green roofs and rain gardens to reduce impacts from stormwater runoff, as well as public infrastructure improvements like new boat ramps, docks and parks to help bring people back to the rejuvenated River. For example, in addition to providing a healthy food source in our City, the Aquaponics program will tackle what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified as the leading source of health risk from River sediment (that’s the contaminated mud at the bottom of the River). When fish from the River feed along its bottom, they become contaminated with pollutants. And while consumption has been banned in the River for years, fish are still caught from the River and eaten; so, one of the goals of the Aquaponics center will be to exchange contaminated fish from the River for clean fish from the Center. Veterans from the Center will visit known fishing areas and offer to exchange clean fish for polluted ones.

the ingestion of contaminated fish,” explained Dr. Amy Rowe, Environmental and Resource Management Agent for Essex/Passaic Counties. “Community members will be educated by the veterans in this program about the risks of eating contaminated fish, as well as all the ways that Newark residents can do their part to help improve the overall health of the Passaic River. In the long term, MRCDC hopes to make this Aquaponics Center an educational center for local schools, so children can learn why it’s so important to restore the River and how they can protect it in the future. “Right now the Aquaponics Center is an exciting program that will bring quick and substantial benefits to our community,” said Graham. “But we have greater ambitions and hopes for this program. We hope to see it flourish and expand and we need our community to come together to help make that happen.”

m project, known as an aquaponics center, will raise hybrid striped bass e) and grow vegetables (hydroponics). It will be administered and supervised onics experts and operated by local veterans, who will be employed and istribute the fish and vegetables.

nvironmental Protection Agency has identified fish consumption as the main alth risk associated with sediment in the River. This project will create a swap for contaminated fish.

onics project is intended to be a smart and fast way to reduce the human caused by the consumption of fish from the Lower Passaic River, while we argeted dredging of contaminated river sediment will secure longer-term

his project just another example of how the Metropolitan Resurrection Donald Harris is the managing y Development Corporation is working with the private sectorand to founding solve problems member of Sustainable Preservation Partners LLC. a better place for us all to live. For further information about the

Aquaponics program or how you can participate in the fish exchange program, please contact Donald Harris at: (908) 644-6840 or email at: dlh1226519@gmail.com.

The Lower Passaic River Study Area Cooperating Parties Group

MORE AT WWW.LOWERPASSAICCPG.COM

WORKING TOGETHER, WE ARE CREATING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR THE LOWER PASSAIC RIVER AND A HEALTHY FOOD SOURCE FOR THE COMMUNITY.

The Metropolitan Resurrection Community Development Corporation in Newark, the development arm of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, and the Lower Passaic Cooperating Parties Group (CPG), comprising civic-minded companies working to bring about a cleaner river, are pleased to partner on an exciting pilot project to provide residents with access to a healthy food source. This interim project, known as an aquaponics center, will raise hybrid striped bass (aquaculture) and grow vegetables (hydroponics). It will be administered and supervised by aquaponics experts and operated by local veterans, who will be employed and trained to distribute the fish and vegetables. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has identified fish consumption as the main human health risk associated with sediment in the River. This project will create a swap of fresh fish for contaminated fish. The aquaponics project is intended to be a smart and fast way to reduce the human health risk caused by the consumption of fish from the Lower Passaic River, while we believe a targeted dredging of contaminated river sediment will secure longer-term protection. Consider this project just another example of how the Metropolitan Resurrection Community Development Corporation is working with the private sector to solve problems and create a better place for us all to live.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.LOWERPASSAICCPG.COM

By Quinita E. Good

Coursing the Waters of Middle Aged Love

here was a time when I hated to see Valentine’s Day come because I didn’t have a valentine of my own. The month of lovers was a month of misery for me and I expended a lot of emotional distress over not having that special person in my life. Now, at 56-years-old and unmarried, I course the waters of relationships very carefully. By carefully, I mean that I watch my tendency to be carried away with potential mates like I might watch boiling water. I don’t want to scorch the pot (lose my sense of self) or lighten the temperature so much that I never feel what it’s like to be in love again. America in the 1950s and 60s labeled women like me “spinsters”—a seemingly lesser form of existence as a woman. Then, spinsters were a phenomenon. Today, we are almost the norm. With fewer male prospects our age, a higher rate of divorce, and even personal choice, women in their 40s, 50s and 60s are defining their singleness in new terms—terms like self-reliance, autonomy, freedom and unconstraint. Somehow, being happy is no longer dependent on having a partner, whether it’s through personal choice or not. For most, the desire for a committed relationship is still there. Our libidos haven’t actually died and the need for companionship still lingers—as it probably does with any human being. Often, we’ve tried to make

The Positive Community February 2014

For most, the desire for a committed relationship is still there. Our libidos haven’t actually died and the need for companionship still lingers—as it probably does with any human being marriage happen in our earlier years, wishing and hoping that this time it might happen. But time goes by and fewer prospects appear and we sign a new lease on life and determine to make the most of it, no matter what. Miraculously—if we pay attention—when we reach the point of resolve, a fresh new perspective surfaces. We begin to count our blessings and recognize our talents and Continued on page 66 www.thepositivecommunity.com

ual

n The Fourth An

A night of heart health information and music.

February 21, 2014 . 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm

In The Ferolie Gallery & Chiang Auditorium at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center . 350 Engle Street, Englewood NJ 07631

Free & Open to All! MC: Liz Black

Featured Guests & Performers

David Thomas

Martin Christie

(WBLS/WLIB Radio)

Soul Tempo

Kersten Stevens

Program Heart 5:30 - 7:00 Soul 7:00 - 9:00 Mark American Heart Month with Celebrate Black History Month a buffet dinner, heart health with Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and information, 1-on-1 conversations Hip-Hop performances & a with physicians & a tour through Community Leadership Awards our “virtual heart unit.” Ceremony.

Education T e ac h i n g , L e a r n i n g , M a k i n g a D i f f e r e n c e

Magaret Wacyk, virtuoso pianist

L–R: Stephanie DeGeneste, Donavon Soumas and Jeffrey King

A Mid-Sunday Afternoon’s Dream Concert

ew Covenant Christian Academy (NCCA), an independent private school with a stellar sevenyear track record, was forced to close its doors this past summer; nevertheless, NCCA continues to dream. The dream is to relocate into the St. Bernard’s school building in Plainfield. NCCA’s closure—precipitated by the school’s landlord—was due to unfortunate and unforeseen circumstances beyond NCCA’s control. Though everyone associated with the kindergarten through twelfth grade leadership academy was displaced, the NCCA, Inc. board of directors refused to go down in defeat. They recognized that the vision to train academically equipped, spiritually minded leaders who will make a difference in the world can come to fruition again, and are working tirelessly to build the broad based financial support needed to re-open New Covenant Christian Academy in September 2014.

The Positive Community February 2014

A Mid-Sunday Afternoon’s Dream Concert, a talent rich event held on Superbowl Sunday at Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church in Plainfield, was more than an opportunity to raise revenue to benefit NCCA’s re-opening. It was a conduit to raise awareness of the school’s penchant for excellence in all its educational endeavors. The audience was treated to an array of outstanding performances geared to bring enjoyment with a special dollop of inspiration and education. The words of French philosopher Anatole France, “To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream. Not only plan but also believe” are etched on the hearts of NCCA students, especially concert opener, Queintard DeGeneste, II, an NCCA double inaugural graduate in ’07 and ’11. Now a junior attending Eastern University majoring in music composition, www.thepositivecommunity.com

Eastern Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s select vocal ensemble Turning Point

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;R: Queintard DeGeneste, II and Chad Seamon

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Kelsey Meyers of Turning Point

two of the three piano selections performed by Queintard were his own pieces. Vocalist Jeffrey King dazzled the audience, as did Turning Point from Eastern University. Virtuoso pianist and author, Margaret Wacyk, who has performed in Europe and the United States, not only played selections by J.S. Bach, but shared information about the intricacies of his great music that shed light into the intentionality of his works to be a tool for communicating with the Divine. New Covenant Christian Academy is trusting Divine help to come through human agents so their dreams will no longer be dashed, but achieved. To learn more about NCCA and ways you can help make their dream to re-open come true, visit www.nccacademy.org or call 908.756.3322.

February 2014 The Positive Community

The Positive Community February 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Khalil Gibran Muhammad in His Own Words: On Hallowed Halls, Hip Hop, Black History and Black Future www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

COVERSTORY

r. Khalil Gibran Muhammad is the Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. He is a historian, cultural commentator, author and the great-grandson of the Hon. Elijah Muhammad. He recently sat down for an exclusive interview with R.L. Witter and The Positive Community to discuss the Schomburg, Black History, cultural appropriation, and the future of black culture. Visit www.thepositivecommunity.com to watch the entire interview and hear his personal views on and experiences with racial profiling, criminalization of black men and more.

On what the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is: The Schomburg is the world’s leading repository for the preservation, the interpretation, the collection, and the study of global black history. I like to say that it is for black people, the nation’s Library of Congress and the National Archives. Frankly, when we think about cultural heritage, we think about museums; we think about historic preservation sites. But we don’t often think about the places we go to study and learn—that have our history. And, there are few places in this country that are as open and as committed to sharing that knowledge with anybody who seeks it. The Schomburg Center is about to celebrate its 90th year . . . Everyone from Langston Hughes to Zora Neale Hurston to James Baldwin to Ruby Dee to Toni Morrison has come through the doors of the Schomburg Center and come out a smarter person, a more creative person, a more inspired person and then went out and changed hearts and minds. And that tradition, and that cycle continues.

36 The Positive Community

February 2014

On his position as Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: Some days it feels like a job—when the weight of administrative burdens fall heavily, when there’s not enough money in the budget, when someone’s had a bad day on the job and it raises to my desk . . . that’s the exception, not the rule. The rule is that every day I get to see everyone from 5-year-olds to 95-year-olds walk through our doors, to seek out information. They go into our galleries, they learn something new, they stop and pause and reflect on the fact that Langston Hughes’ ashes are in our main atrium just outside the main auditorium. At night, the place often comes to life with amazingly smart, creative black folks who come to hear stories about the past, to sing songs, to celebrate our music! It’s a pretty special place in that regard. One of the lessons I’ve learned is that the Schomburg Center has no borders . . . Our resources are truly international . . . Am I surprised when the former president of the Dominican Republic calls and says, “I’m in town; I’d like to meet with the director of the Schomburg,”? Am I surprised when the cultural ambassador from India or Brazil calls and says, “We’d like a special tour of the Schomburg Center,”? I didn’t realize how truly special this place is to people who in other places want to model what we do—want to build libraries and museums that tell the story of African descended people in those particular countries. On the future of Black History: One person immediately comes to mind—his name is Phillip Agnew, the head of Dream Defenders—the organization in Florida that occupied Gov. Rick Scott’s office to call for a repeal of Stand Your Ground Laws in the wake of the Trayvon Martin murder and the Zimmerman verdict. This young man is really something special . . . I’m pretty sure we will hear a lot more from him. I think current leadership of the NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund… her name is Sherrilyn Ifill. I think she’s just very smart, very talented. She is taking on the issues of voting rights and affirmative action and I expect her to be a source of history making and someone we will study looking down the road. Of course there’s the celebrities—the Jay-Zs, the Beyoncés—these sort of second generation celebrities who are able now to make the kind of money that those pioneers—the Harry Belafontes, the Lena Hornes or the Jackie Robinsons weren’t able to make at the level at which money is made today. The jury is still out though, as to whether that money will translate into helping to

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build communities, helping to deal with the problem of inequality in our society. I think their historical legacy will be better secured by seeing how they use their vast wealth as entertainers to help make a difference in the world. On his family’s place in Black History I would say that it’s hard for me to pinpoint the moment where my connection to my family’s history made me a different person . . . I was definitely aware at a young age of who my great-grandfather was. I was aware of the legacy he left behind . . . But, that didn’t easily translate into my sense of Black History or my commitment to being a professional historian. Most of my conscious connection to Black History came, frankly, because of issues that affected my life as a young adult that were consistent with what the Nation of Islam stood for, which is to say, ideas about white supremacy, ideas stigmatizing young black men as potential criminals. But I actually experienced those ideas, confronted them and was in some instances victimized by them. And that’s what fired my commitment and passion to Black History . . . It didn’t take much for me to want to study first for myself, to understand in my own terms what [it meant] to be in the world as a black person. What did that mean to people who did not value black life? And then I had a commitment and desire to want to teach and talk about it and to share it and engage others in that story. On Hip Hop and cultural appropriation: Hip Hop is so important because it is a way to stand in the problem, owning what it is . . . The levers of capital control and power still reside in the hands of white America. For me, the popular culture front suggests that we have to maintain vigilance about who is making deciwww.thepositivecommunity.com

sions and in the interest of whom . . . Even our music— we struggle with independent artists who are more talented, have something more interesting to say, and yet the decision making in our mega media companies is often not ours . . . I used to watch American Idol . . . in the early days . . . But I had to turn it off . . . In the early rounds they were looking for white people who could sing like black people and the black people who sang like black people were not good enough for the show . . . This issue of racial ventriloquism, this way in which the act of performing in a tradition of blackness gives white people more currency, more cool, more access to privilege and power in this nation is an ongoing problem. We inherited it from the past, it continues to be with us today. On the future of Black America: What feels good is that our young people are doing better than ever in terms of their commitment to their education… The truth is that when you look at 16–24year-olds and you look at all the pathways for graduating from high school, they’re graduating on equal par with all of their counterparts. That’s really good news! We have close to 3 million black people who have gone to college as compared to 250,000 just about 30 or 40 years ago . . . We’ve got to continue to tell good stories about our young people and appreciate that they listen to the value of education. But we also have to fight for them, and we have to build the inter-generational relationships that sustained earlier black communities—when mother wisdom and mother wit were valued and at the same time young people were encouraged to do what was necessary to change the world… I’m excited about our young people and their willingness to do the right thing; we just have to do our part to make sure it pays off. February 2014 The Positive Community

Photo: Karen Waters

Edison Job Corps Academy

dison Job Corps Academy recently invited publisher Adrian Council to deliver keynote remarks at their quarterly Community Relations Networking Luncheon. Pictured above, Job Corps executives Leslie Burwell, business and community liaison manager and Wendy White deputy director, present Certificate of Appreciation to Adrian. Guest speaker for March 4th luncheon, former NJ Governor James E. McGreevy.

TOURO COLLEGE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION

FIFTH DECENNIAL CONFERENCE COMMEMORATING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF BROWN VS. BOARD OF EDUCATION THE TIMES CENTER • 242 WEST 41ST STREET • NEW YORK, NY

PLUS

BROWN

DOES RACE STILL MATTER?

SAVE THE DATE

RSVP

MAY 14 - 16, 2014

Email: brownplus60@touro.edu Tel: 212-463-0400, Ext: 5235

The Positive Community February 2014

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William “Joe” Dowdy

1939—2014

illiam "Joe" Dowdy of Newark, N.J., made his transition on Jan. 23, 2014. The celebration of his life was held on Tuesday, February 4, at the Newark Museum. He was laid to rest in Laurinburg, N.C. He was 73 years-old. In his early career he was fondly known as "Joe Bandana," the best hair stylist in Newark. Dowdy, the founder of the Razac Products Company, was a visionary in the hair and beauty industry. He created several products for men and women including the Fulla Wave Cap, the Tie Down Wave Cap and complete lines of hair care products for both men and women. Razac’s perfumed hand and body lotion is sold globally as are many other of the firm’s products. He ls survived by his children (who are all involved in the family business) Darren (Bernadette), Jalil (Corie), Devvan (Raymie), Doran "Bernie" Sloan and Todd Sloan; grandchildren Darren, Elijah, Khail, Khalif, Marselis, D'Avion, Donovan, Kimiko, and Kiara; his sisters Gina Harding and Sakeenah Cooper.

Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson Jr. 1939—2014

ev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, pastor of Thessalonia Baptist Church in the Bronx, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2014. The Newark, NJ native was the president of the Baptist Ministers of Greater New York & Vicinity. He was 73 years-old. Dr. Sampson was the pastor of the Thessalonia Baptist Church since 1982 and in ministry for over 30 years. Prior to entering the ministry, he had a successful career as a chemist and microbiologist. He was also a gifted pianist. A scholar, Dr. Sampson graduated from Central High School in Newark, with highest honors in Science, History, Music, and Distance Running. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University, Graduate Certificate in Science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry in Church Education, both from Drew University, New Jersey and PhD in Urban Education & Psychology from Temple University. Sampson is survived by his wife, Deloranzo Sampson, eight children, 14 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

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Bergen Community College Celebrates

BLACK HISTORY MONTH February 1 – 28, 2014

“Fifty Years Later, Dr. King’s Dream Endures”

Monday, February 10

Poetry Reading Showcasing the talent of student poets 4:45–6:00 p.m., TEC-128D

Tuesday, February 11

“Discovering Your Voice” - Creative Arts Workshop featuring: Abstract Art Impressionist, Sophia Domeville 1:45–3:00 p.m., C-211

Thursday, February 13

Author Joseph Clifton will discuss his novel, “Heat Seeker,” and the genre of science-fiction. A book-signing will follow. 6:30–8:00 p.m., TEC-128D

Tuesday, February 18

Dr. Marcia Cantarella, Author of “I Can Finish College”; Daughter of Civil Rights Activist, Whitney Young, Jr., will lecture on the theme “50 Years Later, Dr. King’s Dream Endures.” Co-Sponsored by Faculty Development. 9:30–10:45 a.m., Ciccone Theatre

Wednesday, February 19

Imam Shahid Abdullah, Researcher, Author, and Community Leader will present “Wealth and Finance in the African American Community - A Historical Perspective.” A book-signing will follow. 6:30–8:00 p.m., Room TEC-128D

Thursday, February 20

“Brown vs. Board of Education” Presented by Nathaniel Briggs, former Bergen County President of the NAACP. Sponsored by the BCC NAACP Campus Youth Chapter. 12:30–2:00 p.m., Room TEC-128D

Wednesday, February 26

David Mills, actor, writer, and poet will perform a one-person show based on the work of Harlem Renaissance writer, Langston Hughes. A workshop will follow. 11:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m.; Room W-226 Recital Hall (West Hall)

For more information, visit www.bergen.edu

Read the complete obituaries at www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

Undergraduate Students • A Catholic college in the Franciscan tradition • Generous scholarship opportunities • Dedicated professors who know you by name • NCAA Division II athletic program • Internship opportunities and career counseling • Residential student community

Adult Degree Completion Students • Accelerated and flexible programs held on campus, online or at our off-campus locations. • Small class sizes – build a sense of community with other adult students.

Graduate Students • Develop credentials, knowledge and leadership skills to advance your career. • Graduate programs include a combination of coursework and fieldwork to prepare you for leadership roles.

LEARN MORE AT AN OPEN HOUSE: UNDERGRADUATE – Sunday, April 6, 2014, 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. ADULT AND GRADUATE – Saturday, February 15, 2014, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. One Felician Way, Rutherford, NJ

SIGN UP ONLINE AT FELICIAN.EDU Student-guided tours depart from the historic Castle on the Rutherford campus and are offered year round, except during school holidays: Monday – Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Register online: felician.edu/visit/campus-tours

One Felician Way Rutherford, NJ 07070 Tel: 201.355.1465 E-mail: admissions@felician.edu felician.edu

Introducing Dr. Howard L. Burrell Special Assistant to the Felician College President

he factors that Undergraduate most influ- Students about the possibility of being a part manufacturer; as a sales representa• A Catholic college in the Franciscan tradition enced Dr. Howard Burrell’s of this exciting vision.” tive, a regional sales manager, the • Generous scholarship opportunities decision to end• Dedicated professors who know you by name his threeDr. Burrell added, “President Pris- corporate customer service manager year retirement• NCAA Division II athletic program and join co and I had an almost immediate and the international sales manager the management team• Internship opportunities and career counseling of Felician meeting of the minds, and I am ex- for a major specialty chemical com• Residential student community College’s new president, Dr. Anne tremely pleased that she has given pany; and as an assistant director in Prisco, were the Franciscan values me this opportunity to support her the New Jersey Department of Labor Students that are an integral partAdult of theDegree qual- Completion as we work together to make an & Workforce Development. • Accelerated and flexible programs held on campus, ity of a Felician College online or at our off-campus locations. education, already good institution of higher He has served in elective posiand the president’s positive vision learning even better.” tions on the Centenary College, NJ, • Small class sizes – build a sense of community with for the future of the college. Dr. Burrell’s formal education, Board of Trustees; the Vernon Town other adult students. “After leaving my position as an background and experiences have ship, NJ, Board of Education; the Students Assistant Director in theGraduate New Jersey prepared him well for the diverse Vernon Township Council; the Board Department of Labor &• Develop credentials, knowledge and leadership skills Workforce responsibilities that he has at Feli- of Trustees for the Sussex County, to advance your career. Development in 2010, I retired. For cian College. NJ, Charter School for Technology; • Graduate programs include a combination of the next three years, I coursework and fieldwork to prepare you for spent my He was born and raised in the Board of Directors for the Sussex time enjoying my grandsons, do- small southern town of Utica, Mis- County Center for Substance Abuse/ leadership roles. ing research related to a college sissippi, during the years when our Addiction Prevention and CounselLEARN MORE AN OPEN course that I was developing and ATnation wasHOUSE: going through the turbu- ing; Board of Trustees for Sunrise occasionally teaching UNDERGRADUATE online and lent Civil Rights Movement and dur- House, Lafayette, NJ, a licensed, – April 6, 2014, – 3:30 p.m. in classroom courses asSunday, an adjunct ing12:30 our p.m. country’s involvement in the non-profit detoxification and treatADULT ANDpriGRADUATE – professor at a nearby four-year Vietnam War. ment center for alcohol and drug Saturday, February 15, 2014, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. vate college. I thought that my days He attended undergraduate dependency; and the Sussex County One Felician Way, Rutherford, NJ of working a daily full-time job were school at Tennessee State University Board of Chosen Freeholders. SIGN UP ONLINE AT FELICIAN.EDU behind me,” explained Dr. Burrell. in Nashville, where he earned a BS However, when he learned that Degree in Business Administration. Dr. Burrell also has been awarded depart from the Dr. Prisco was looking Student-guided for a key ad-toursWhile at Tennessee State,One heFelician was Way a the distinction of being selected as historic Castle on the Rutherford campus Rutherford, NJ 07070 ministrator with a unique of skills member ofduring the U.S. Air Force Reserve a Gates-Ferry Distinguished Visiting andset are offered year round, except Tel: 201.355.1465 and experiences that would support Officer’s Training Corps, and upon Lecturer at Centenary College, and school holidays: E-mail: admissions@felician.edu a range of highly responsible and graduation, was commissioned a has received the NAACP’s Presidenfelician.edu Monday – Friday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. complex managementRegister duties,online: and Second Lieutenant in the Air Force. tial Award for a lifetime of service. serve as the President’sfelician.edu/visit/campus-tours Office liaison While in the Air Force, he served He was nominated by Governor to the college’s Board of Trustees, he as a Special Agent with the Air Force Chris Christie and confirmed by chose to explore this position. Office of Special Investigations; the Senate Judiciary Committee to “During my meeting with Presi- managed the Air Force’s Drug & Al- become one of five Commissiondent Prisco, I learned that she was cohol Abuse/Human Relations Edu- ers on the North Jersey District Wathe college’s first lay president in cation Programs at Air Force bases ter Supply Commission, where he Felician College’s 70-year history,” in the country of Turkey and in the currently serves. Dr. Burrell said. “We discussed her U.S.; and managed an Air Force docIn addition to a Bachelor’s Devision for the college, including tors’, nurses’ and lawyers’ recruit- gree in Business Administration, he her goal of expanding the college’s ment unit. He departed the Air also holds a Master’s degree and a programs and global initiatives, in- Force as a Vietnam-era veteran after Doctorate in Psychology. creasing enrollment and continuing having achieved the rank of Major. “This is indeed a good time in my Felician’s commitment to serve a Dr. Burrell has worked as a buyer life, and a good time to be a part of diverse student body. I was inspired for America’s largest home appliance Felician College,” Dr. Burrell stated. www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

Historic Churches of NYC

ccording to one slave narrative, white folks were so afraid of slaves congregating to worship that “they would come in when the colored people would have prayer meeting and whip every one of them. Most of them thought that when colored people were praying it was against them.” Yet despite this paranoia and the subsequent burning of places of worship, for centuries the “black church” has survived and remains some of the strongest institutions in the African American community.

From playing the role as “safe havens” for runaway slaves during the abolitionist movement to the active HIV/AIDS ministries of today, black churches not only provide spiritual uplift, but have built the foundation on which the struggle for equal rights and justice stands. In celebration of Black History Month, we take a walk down memory lane to some of the oldest and still thriving congregations in and around New York City. But let this not just be an educational exercise… be a part of the history by attend-

ing a worship service during this month or touring one of the other historical sites on our list of famous addresses in New York’s Black History.

ABYSSINIAN BAPTIST CHURCH LOCATION: 132 East 138TH Street, Manhattan SENIOR PASTOR: Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III

T BRIDGE STREET AFRICAN WESLEYAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH LOCATION: 277 Stuyvesant Avenue, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn SENIOR PASTOR: Rev. David B. Cousin, Sr.

he Bridge Street African Wesleyan Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest continuing black congregation in Brooklyn. This unique congregation, located in the heart of Bedford-Stuyvesant, was organized in 1766 and incorporated in 1818. It traces its missionary origins to Captain Thomas Webb, a British convert of John Wesley and the father of Methodism in America. On July 12, 1854 The AWME Church bought the property at 309 Bridge Street from the trustees of the First Congregational Church for $12,000. On December 31, 1862, hundreds of Brooklyn citizens--black and white--flooded the Bridge Street Church to attend the church’s traditional “watch night” service on New Year’s Eve. Parishioners came in such numbers because President Abraham Lincoln had promised to sign the Emancipation Proclamation on New Year’s Day. This was the first day of an historic three-day celebration of freedom at the church. On January 1, 1863, President Lincoln signed the Proclamation and the Bridge Street Church remained open all day as jubilant parishioners arrived and joined in meetings, speeches, prayers and songs. The Bridge Street Church played a prominent role in the anti-slavery movement as an abolitionist meeting place and a “station” on the Underground Railroad as many escaped slaves were sheltered in the church’s basement on their journey north to freedom. In October 1865, Harriet Tubman, the nation’s most famous conductor on the Underground Railroad, visited the church and was hailed for her heroism as a Union scout and nurse.

The Positive Community February 2014

he Abyssinian Baptist Church is the second oldest African American church in New York City. In 1808 a group of African Americans along with a group of Ethiopian merchants refusing to accept segregated seating in the First Baptist Church of New York City got together and formed The Abyssinian Baptist Church. The name was inspired by the ancient name of nation from which the merchants of Ethiopia had come, Abyssinia. It was first located in Lower Manhattan after buying property at 40 Worth Street. It remained there until 1854 and since that time has occupied several locations including 166 Waverly Place in Greenwich Village. The church is famous for its ministers, particularly Adam Clayton Powell, Sr. and his son Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., who became the first African American Congressman from New York City. Rev. Powell Sr. took over the pulpit on Dec. 30, 1908, on the church’s 100th anniversary year and ushered in a new era in the church’s history, known as “The Powell Years.’’ Rev. Powell devoted the first 12 years of his pastorate to the spiritual development and reorganization of the church, while promoting the idea of a model church in Harlem that would respond to the religious and social needs of African Americans. His “social gospel” blended spiritual leadership with social activism and set the tone for the church’s ongoing mission of community service. In 1920, shortly after the start of the cultural movement known as the Harlem Renaissance, Abyssinian purchased lots on West 138th Street between Lenox and Seventh Avenues for the construction of a new church building and community house. In 1937, Rev. Powell, Jr. succeeded his father as pastor and grew the church’s membership from 7,000 to approximately 10,000, making Abyssinian one of the largest and most influential black churches in America and one of the largest Protestant churches in the world. In 1989, Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III became the church’s 20th pastor. His ministry has a pervasive impact on the church and community development initiatives including homelessness, senior citizens and youth empowerment, cultural awareness and ecumenical outreach. www.thepositivecommunity.com

MOTHER AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL ZION CHURCH LOCATION: 140 West 137th Street, Manhattan SENIOR PASTOR: Rev. Dr. Richard Curtis Chapple, Jr.

he Mother African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, New York’s oldest African American congregation was established in 1796 by African-American members of the predominantly white John Street Methodist Church. Although the John Street Methodist Church was abolitionist in its orientation, racial segregation was still enforced in other ways. One A.M.E. Zion historian described it this way: “The colored members were not permitted to come to the sacrament (Holy Communion) until all the white members, even children, had communed.” The church has a long history of social activism and during the tenure of Dr. Benjamin C. Robeson, congregants included his brother, Paul Robeson, Langston Hughes and W. E. B. DuBois. Other famous congregants include Sojourner Truth, who spoke out from the pulpit against slavery. Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass were members of the A.M.E. Zion conference at other congregations. During the years of the Underground Railroad, Mother Zion was referred to as a "Freedom Church" for its active participation in the network. Mother Zion's identification with the abolitionist movement led to it being attacked by an anti-black mob during a three-day riot in 1834. Windows were smashed at Mother Zion, and several black and white churches were set ablaze. The Mother Zion church continues to sponsor a variety of social programs aimed at assisting members of the congregation and the surrounding community. THE CONCORD BAPTIST CHURCH OF CHRIST LOCATION: 833 Madison Street, Brooklyn SENIOR PASTOR: Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson

n the evening of May 18, 1847, four members of the Manhattan-based Abyssinian Baptist Church gathered to establish the Concord Baptist Church of Christ. The Rev. Sampson White (then pastor of Abyssinian Church) and four of his members had grown weary of crossing the river from Brooklyn to Manhattan to worship. The four founding members were: Mrs. Sara Dudley, Mrs. Maria Hampton, Mrs. Hagar Washington and Mr. John J. Washington. Rev. White was called to be their first pastor. Rev. White, a well-known abolitionist, believed strongly in the cause of black freedom and understood the precious power of faith in securing it. He led the Concord congregation in taking an active role in the anti-slavery movement using their homes and the church

Mother AME Zion

Lenox Road Baptist

LENOX ROAD BAPTIST LOCATION: 1356 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn SENIOR PASTOR: Rev. Dr. Kirkpatrick Cohall

he Lenox Road Baptist Church started as a prayer meeting in February of 1871 and had some of its first meetings in the Schoenmakers Hall, now 893 Flatbush Avenue. The church itself was formally organized on March 12, 1872 and publicly recognized as a regularly constituted Baptist Church on April 12, 1872. It initially started as an all-white congregation and continued so up to the early 1970′s. But during the tumultuous social unrest of the 1960’s, the community and the church went through several demographic and socio-economic changes. Large numbers of new immigrants from the Caribbean, Panama, British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, and Guyana were arriving at the same time as the older, mostly white residents were moving out of the community. On December 23, 1975, the 103-year-old landmark church was totally destroyed by fire. This event appeared to have been the catalyst that brought the “old” church and the emerging new membership to a new direction in doing ministry. A worship home during the rebuilding effort was the main need of the church and the community responded by providing a meeting place for Sunday services at the Grand Theatre. The church’s membership continued to grow in spite of the displacement. In 1977 the church installed its first African American minister. From its inception, the church has had a total of 18 pastors. as “sanctuary” for runaway slaves. Rev. White resigned as pastor in 1851 and was succeeded for a short while by Rev. Leonard Black, who was a runaway slave. In 1939, the church secured its current home at Marcy Avenue – a major feat for an African-American congregation at that time. The congregation also established several community-based, care-centered outreach ministries including the Concord Credit Union established in 1950; the Concord Christ Fund established in 1988 with an aim of supporting organizations working for the uplift of Central Brooklyn’s neighborhoods and its people; the Concord Baptist Elementary School; The Concord Home Services for the Elderly; the Concord Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center; the Concord Seniors Residence; the Concord Family Services and the Concord Clothing Exchange. In 1990, the Concord congregation called the 27-year-old Gary V. Simpson to be its 10th Pastor and under his leadership the church continues to immerse itself in a new mission for a changed world. Concord Baptist Church is nationally known as a pioneering church, a teaching congregation and an institution in the Bedford-Stuyvesant community.

Compiled by Ayorinde Credits: The Center for African American Ministries and Black Church Studies; The History of the African Wesleyan Methodist Episcopal Church by Dr. Amos M. Jordan; The NYC Landmark Preservation Commission and individual Churches’ Historical Profiles. www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

UFT 11th Annual Dinner Dance

Daneek Miller, City Councilman and honoree (Frederick Douglass Award for Civil and Human Rights)

L–R: Anthony Harmon of UFT, director and chair of the dinner dance, Congressman Rangel and Karen Alford, V.P. UFT

embers and leaders of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) came together to celebrate Black History Month at Antun’s in Queens Village, New York. Under the theme “Steady the Course,” the organization honored leaders in labor, education and community service. Michael Mulgrew, president. L–R: Angela Artis, UFT staffer; Nia Grinage, scholarship recipient and Martha Lane, UFT staffer Honorees seated, flanked by labor and community leaders

The Positive Community February 2014

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The United Federation of Teachers Salutes

Black History Month

Photos: UFT, Library of Congress

HONORING OUR PAST

PREPARING OUR FUTURE United Federation of Teachers • A Union of Professionals •

www.uft.org

Officers: Michael Mulgrew President, Emil Pietromonaco Secretary, Mel Aaronson Treasurer, LeRoy Barr Assistant Secretary, Mona Romain Assistant Treasurer Vice Presidents: Karen Alford, Carmen Alvarez, Catalina Fortino, Janella Hinds, Richard Mantell, Sterling Roberson

Culture Li f e , M u s ic , A r t & Lit e r at u r e

Original production drawing from “Harlem Globetrotters”

by helene Fox

Collection on Exhibit at the Schomberg

Black Animation Art

ver the past 15 years, Pamela Thomas and her business partner, Loreen Williamson, have assembled one of the most extensive collections of 1970s black animation art in the United States. They have made it accessible to the public through their virtual Museum of UnCut Funk, and, now, a traveling exhibit, “Funky Turns 40: Black Character Revolution,” is on view at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem. The collection consists of more than 300 original production cels, production drawings and storyboards, mainly from animated series that aired during the 1970s. Among the programs represented are Harlem Globetrotters (1970), The Jackson 5ive (1971) and Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids (1972 – 1985). Thomas and Williamson culled approximately 60 pieces from the collection to include in the “Funk Turns 40” show. “We focused on the 1970s because this was the first time there was a group of cartoons with positive images of blacks, and black children as well as other children could see these images on television,” explained Ms. Thomas, a black studies major at CCNY (‘96), who now teaches pre-school in Plainfield, NJ. “As a baby boomer, this was the first time I got to see images I could relate to.” They began collecting animation art when they were partners in an art gallery in Summit, NJ.

The Positive Community February 2014

Original production cel of the main character from Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, an animation series that aired from 1972 to 1985

Original production cel of Valerie Brown of Josie and the Pussycats. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Seeing strong demand for art from Disney and Warner Brothers cartoons, they identified an untapped niche in animation that featured black characters. They developed a network of galleries, dealers and private collectors to alert them when items of interest came on the market. “These series represent an incredible story that needs to be told. We want to start a conversation on why these cartoons are national treasures on tour,” Ms. Thomas added. She noted that many of the programs dealt with real-life issues such as family values, education, friendship, civic duty, personal responsibility and sportsmanship, “but seen through the eyes of children.” The exhibit at the Schomburg runs through June 14. Afterward, it goes on display at the DuSable Museum of African American History in Chicago and, then, the Northwest African American Museum in Seattle. The Museum of UnCut Funk is described as the “planet’s first virtual museum dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the FUNK!” and the “foremost authority and archive of 1970s black culture and all things FUNKY!” Its collection of more than 5,000 items includes—in addition to black animation art—black advertising tins, black Broadway window cards, black coins, black comic books, black movie poster art, black movie press kits and black stamps.

SCHOMBURG CENTER

WINTER 2014

SCHOMBURG CENTER

WHERE OUR STORIES BEGIN AND OUR HISTORY IS TOLD

One of the nation’s premier cultural institutions— where every month is Black History Month— visit us online: Schomburgcenter.org or in historic Harlem! 515 Malcom X Blvd. New York, NY 10037

www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

Rev. Reginald Williams Anniversary Photos: Bruce Moore

L–R: Lady Patricia Arrington, Lady Sandra E. Williams, Lady Lorraine Horne, and Lady Sara Morrison

ozens of clergy leaders, friends, family and members of the mighty Charity Baptist Church in the Bronx came out celebrate the 25th pastoral anniversary of a beloved spiritual leader, Rev. Reginald Williams. In 1984, Pastor Williams entered the Addicts Rehabilitation Center Inc. (ARC) as a client seeking help to overcome his drug addiction. While attending a local revival, Evangelist Peggy Ferguson, of the White Rock Baptist Church, publicly prophesied to him and Mr. James Allen, executive director of ARC, that “God has put you two together, to work together and to help each other. Pastor Williams was subsequently hired by Mr. Allen as executive assistant. During the past 30 years Rev. Williams was promoted to program director and director of operations and given increased responsibilities

L–R: Rev. Reginald Williams, Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe, and Rev. Dr. Carl Washington

including: policy development, contract negotiations, legislative and service advocacy, oversight of the delivery of clinical services and sponsor/developer of all capital projects (6 new constructions and 4 completely renovated buildings.) Pastor Williams is now president and CEO of ARC and chairman of the ARC Foundation. Today, ARC is the oldest, one of the largest and most successful, intensive residential drug-free treatment programs in NY state. In his combined capacity as pastor and chairman, Rev. Williams has developed over 900 units of housing for low-income individuals and families in Harlem and the Bronx. A Harlem resident, Rev. Williams is married to his college sweetheart, First Lady Deacon Sandra Canady Williams and is a devoted father of three children, Naomi Nicole, Tabitha Christine and Jonathan David. —AAC

Standing, L–R: Rev. Hiram Ratliff, Rev. Torrence Robinson, Rev. James Morrison, Rev. Dr. Willie Hairston, Rev. Dr. Lee A. Arrington, Rev. Dr. Carl Washington, Rev. Franklin Chandler, Rev. Tyrone Williams, Rev. Dr. Sean Gardner, Rev. Sterling Hawkins, Rev. Kermit Williams Seated, L-R: Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe, Rev. Gloria Wynn, Rev. Gary Carswell, Rev. Issac B. Graham, Rev. Reginald Williams, Lady Sandra E. Williams, Rev. Dr. Renee Washington-Gardner, Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Rev. Jerome Washington, Rev. Dr. Eugene Rogers, Sr.

The Positive Community February 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

in concert with

CREATED HISTORY AT THE APOLLO THEATER IN A SALUTE TO BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2014

FRIDAY NIGHT IN HARLEM

“LET THE MusIc sAY AMEN”

1. The great Valerie Simpson, recipient of the Mahalia Jackson Gospel Legacy Award performs with the awesome First Corinthian Baptist Church Mass Choir. 2. Dr. Hazel Dukes, President, NAACP NYS Chapters joins with Marci McCall, Community Relations Manager, Emblem Health (Event Sponsor) in giving welcoming remarks.

3 3. Distinguished Gentlemen from

Historically Black Colleges & Universities are honored on the stage

of the Apollo Theater (l-r) Howie Evans, University of Maryland Eastern Shore; Jeﬀ Burns, Jr., Howard University; Frank Savage, Howard University; Rev. Michael Waldrond, Morehouse College; Dr. Enrique Riggs, Central State- University; Robert McCullough, Sr., Benedict College; William C. Rhoden, Morgan State University; and (Marita Monroe) accepting for her husband Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Winston-Salem State University and Winston Majette, North Carolina Central State University. 4. Lalah Hathaway, 2014 R&B Grammy Award Winner rocked the audience with her great voice. 5. Regina Belle, four time R&B Grammy Award Winner was a great crowd pleaser.

A Sold-Out Night of Praise

LIB 1190am recently hosted a soldout night of praise and worship at New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. The event, starring WLIB radio personality and Grammy Award winning Gospel superstar, Hezekiah Walker, featured some of the biggest names in Gospel music—Pastor Marvin Sapp, Tye Tribbet, James Fortune and a host of local church choirs. Photos: Karen Waters

Bishop Hezekiah Walker Pastor Marvin Sapp

Tye Tribbet and his mom, Denice

Skip Dillard, program director, WBLS/WLIB

Sponsors: L–R: Campbell Rudder, Barbados Tourist Authority (BTA); Deon Levingston, WBLS/WLIB; Michelle Hare, State Farm; Norman Seabrook, Corrections Officers’ Benevolent Association; Eusi Skeete, BTA

The Positive Community February 2014

L–R: The Positive Community’s Rev. Theresa Nance and photographer Karen Waters with Bishop Walker

Kimberly Williams, David Jefferson, Jr. and Louella Kemp of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark perform as a trio, “The Jeffersons”

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery Family: L–R: Kristina Newland-Sammy, Latalya Morrison, Monique Hawthorne and Omar Hawthorne www.thepositivecommunity.com

s Come in from the cold! s

Sleeping Beauty • 2/9

A Valentine’s Celebration Fantasia with special guests After 7 • 2/14

RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles • 2/13 Family Tickets

$25

2013–14 Season at a glance

each!

Black Violin • 2/22

The Peking Acrobats • 2/23

Paddy Moloney and The Chieftains • 2/28

Jazz Meets Sports • 3/2

Bill Cosby • 3/7

Hugh Masekela 75th Birthday Tour In Honor of Nelson Mandela • 4/6

FebruArY 2014 Feb 8 My Jazzy Valentine Featuring Hillary Kole, Christopher Gines and LaTanya Hall Feb 9 Sleeping Beauty (complete ballet) Feb 13 RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles Feb 14 Fantasia with special guests After 7 Feb 15 Rhapsody In Jazz: George Gershwin Feb 15 The Tenors Feb 16 St. Petersburg Philharmonic Feb 22 Black Violin Feb 23 Dorthaan’s Place: Jon Faddis Feb 23 The Peking Acrobats* Feb 23 Bill Burr Comedian Feb 28 Paddy Moloney and The Chieftains

* Family tickets $25 each. Use code 25FAM. Restrictions apply.

March 2014 Mar 1 Mammoth Follies Mar 1 Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin Mar 2 Jazz Meets Sports: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bernie Williams Mar 6 Evgeny Kissin, piano Mar 7 Bill Cosby Mar 8 Mystic India: The World Tour Mar 8 Jersey Moves! Festival of Dance Mar 14 Lou Gramm–The Voice of Foreigner Mar 21-23 The Music Man Mar 22 KT Sullivan & Mark Nadler Mar 23 Dorthaan’s Place: Antoinette Montague Mar 23 Theresa Caputo Live! Mar 28 Johnny Mathis Mar 29 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Mar 29 Israel Philharmonic Orchestra Mar 30 Jon Anderson–The Voice of Yes

April 2014 Apr 4 Apr Apr

5 6

Apr Apr Apr Apr Apr

6 19 23 25 27

Apr

NJSO performs The Music of Led Zeppelin Echoes Of Harlem: Duke Ellington Hugh Masekela–75th Birthday Tour In Honor of Nelson Mendela Heart Renaissance Ani DiFranco The Midtown Men Dorthaan’s Place: A Salute to Mulgrew Miller Julio Iglesias

Visit njpac.org for a full 2013-14 schedule 1-888-GO-NJPAC Groups of 10 or more: 1-888-MY-NJPAC World Music Series

PosivtiveComm_7x9.5_2-24.indd 1

youtube.com/njpactv

facebook.com/NJPAC

twitter.com/njpac

Please call our ticket services department to let them know if you require ADA services, particularly if you require wheelchair seating.

1/22/14 3:33 PM

HISTORY WAS MADE! Mcdonald’s Gospel Super Choir Breaks Guinness World Record For The World’s Largest Gospel Choir

Loraine Stancil-Lawson

Photos: Don Sherrill

L–R: Phillip Roberts, Guinness World Records adjudicator; Ronald McDonald; McDonald's Owner Operators Angela Adderly and Nellie Thomas along with producer/director, A. Curtis Farrow

Cissy Houston

istory was made on Friday, January 31, 2014 at the legendary Newark Symphony Hall when a new Guinness World Record for the Largest Gospel Choir was established by The McDonald’s Gospel Super Choir—made up of 1171 singers of all ages, from across the tri-state area and as far away as Philadelphia. This record-breaking event was produced and directed by Emmy Award-winner A. Curtis Farrow. “We did it!” exclaimed Farrow. “We brought the record back to our country where Gospel Music was born! The community really showed up!” The choir performed six songs; “Oh Happy Day” featuring Bishop George Searight of Abundant Life Family Worship Church of New Brunswick, “Amazing Grace”

The Positive Community February 2014

featuring Cissy Houston accompanied by Jazz great Nat Adderley Jr, “Stand” featuring Gospel Great Donald Malloy, “Amen” featuring Gospel Pioneer Milton Biggham, “Let the Church Say Amen” featuring Maurice Johnson and “Total Praise” featuring Lorraine Stancil Lawson. This amazing evening reached a crescendo when the official announcement was made and the theater burst into thanks and praises to almighty God. The previous record of 1,169 singers was held by the London Community Gospel Choir (LCGC), which was joined by gospel singers from across Europe. The event was sponsored by the New York Tri-State Owner Operators Association and McDonald’s Corporation. www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Ted Wilson, Ras Baraka, Woodie King, Jr.

THE PASTORAL INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LOGAN

THE PASTORAL INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LO

Amiri Baraka “CELEBRATING“CELEBRATING A FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL STEWARD A FAITHFUL GOD, THE PASTORAL INSTALLATIONA OF REVEREND JAMES B. LOGA AFAITHFUL FAITHFULCONGREGATION” STEWARD AND Tribute

THE PASTORAL INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LO THE PASTORAL INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LOGAN THE THE THE THE PASTORAL PASTORAL PASTORAL PASTORAL PASTORAL INSTALLATION INSTALLATION INSTALLATION INSTALLATION INSTALLATION OF OFOF OF OF REVEREND REVEREND REVEREND REVEREND REVEREND JAMES JAMES JAMES JAMES JAMES B. B.B. LOG B. LOG B.LO LO L THE PASTORALTHE INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LOGAN

Photos: Seitu Oronde

“CELEBRATING A FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL STEWARD “CELEBRATING A FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL STEWARD AND A CONGREGATION” “CELEBRATING “CELEBRATING “CELEBRATING “CELEBRATING A A FAITHFUL A FAITHFUL AAFAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL GOD, GOD, GOD, GOD, GOD, A ASTEWARD FAITHFUL A FAITHFUL AAFAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL STEWARD STEWARD STEWARD STEWARD STEWARD AN “CELEBRATING A“CELEBRATING FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL AND A AN LAMENTATION 3:23 1 CORINTHIANS 4:2 DEUTERONOMY 28:1 A FAITHFUL CONGREGATION” FAITHFUL CONGREGATION” LAMENTATION 3:23 1 CORINTHIANS 4:2 STEWARD DEUTERONOMY 28:1AN “CELEBRATING A FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL FAITHFUL CONGREGATION” CONGREGATION” CONGREGATION” CONGREGATION” CONGREGATION” FAITHFUL CONGREGATION” LAMENTATION 3:23 1 CORINTHIANS DEUTERONOMY 28:1 LAMENTATION 3:23 LAMENTATION 14:2 CORINTHIANS DEUTERONOMY 28:1 LAMENTATION LAMENTATION LAMENTATION LAMENTATION 3:23 3:233:23 3:23 3:23 14:2 1 CORINTHIANS CORINTHIANS 11CORINTHIANS 1CORINTHIANS CORINTHIANS 4:2 4:24:2 4:2 4:2 DEUTERONOMY DEUTERONOMY DEUTERONOMY DEUTERONOMY DEUTERONOMY 28:1 28:128:1 28:1 28:1 FAITHFUL CONGREGATION” LAMENTATION 3:23

1 CORINTHIANS 4:2 DEUTERONOMY 28:1

LAMENTATION 3:23

1 CORINTHIANS 4:2 DEUTERONOMY 28:1

THE PASTORAL INSTALLATION OF REVEREND JAMES B. LOGAN Qunincy Troupe Newark City Councilman Ras Baraka

“CELEBRATING A FAITHFUL GOD, A FAITHFUL STEWARD AND A FAITHFUL CONGREGATION”

Pastor-Elect James B. Logan and Lady-Elect Virginia C. Loga 11 CORINTHIANS CORINTHIANS 4:2 4:2 DEUTERONOMY DEUTERONOMY 28:1 28:1 Pastor-Elect James B. Logan and Lady-Elect Virginia C. Logan Pastor-Elect Pastor-Elect Pastor-Elect Pastor-Elect Pastor-Elect James James James James James B. B. B. Logan Logan B. B.Logan Logan Logan and and and and and Lady-Elect Lady-Elect Lady-Elect Lady-Elect Lady-Elect Virginia Virginia Virginia Virginia Virginia C. C. C. Logan Logan C. C.Loga Loga Log

LAMENTATION LAMENTATION 3:23 3:23

Pastor-Elect James B. Logan and Lady-Elect Virginia C. Logan

Pastor-ElectSATURDAY, James B. Logan and Lady-Elect Virginia C. Logan MARCH 15 SUNDAY, MARCH 16 SUNDA SATURDAY, MARCH 15 Pastor Installation Luncheon 12:00 noon

Pastor Installation Luncheon SUNDAY, MARCH 16 SATURDAY, SATURDAY, SATURDAY, SATURDAY, SATURDAY, MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH 15 15 15 1515 12:00 noon Sunday Morning Worship Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Installation Installation Installation Installation Installation Luncheon Luncheon Luncheon Luncheon Luncheon 10:45 a.m. BISHOP DONALD HILLIARD, JR. 12:00 noon 12:00 12:00 12:00 12:00 noon noon noon noon Senior Pastor

Sunday Morning Worship SUNDAY, MARCH 16 SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY, MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH MARCH 16 16 16 1616 10:45 a.m. Installation Service Sunday Morning Worship Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Morning Morning Morning Morning Worship Worship Worship Worship 4:00 p.m. REV. DR.10:45 LESTER W. TAYLOR, JR. 10:45 a.m. 10:45 10:45 10:45 a.m. a.m. a.m. a.m. Senior Pastor

Instal SUNDAY SUNDAY SUND SUND SUN4 Installat Installat Instal Insta Inst REV. DR. JE44 4:00 4:00

BISHOP DONALD HILLIARD, JR. DR. LESTER W. TAYLOR, JR. MARCH REV. JESSE T. WILLIAMS, JR. SATURDAY, MARCH 15REV. SUNDAY, 16DR. SUNDAY, MARCH 16Av Cathedral International Baptist Church of Englewood Convent BISHOP BISHOP BISHOP BISHOP BISHOP DONALD DONALD DONALD DONALD DONALD HILLIARD, HILLIARD, HILLIARD, HILLIARD, HILLIARD, JR. JR.JR. JR. JR. Community REV. REV. REV. REV. REV. DR. DR.DR. DR. LESTER LESTER DR. LESTER LESTER LESTER W. W. W. TAYLOR, TAYLOR, W. W.TAYLOR, TAYLOR, TAYLOR, JR. JR.JR. JR. JR. REV. REV. REV. REV. REV. DR. DR.DR. DR. JESSE JESSE DR.JE JE Friends, family and bandmembers celebrate Amiri Baraka Senior Pastor Senior Pastor Senior Pastor Pastor Installation Luncheon Sunday Morning Worship Installation Service Perth Amboy, New Jersey Englewood, New Jersey New YS Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Senior Senior Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Senio Se Senior Pastor Senio Cathedral International Community Baptist Church of Englewood Convent Avenue Baptist Church 12:00 noon 10:45 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Cathedral Cathedral Cathedral International International International Community Community Community Baptist Baptist Baptist Church Church Church of Englewood of of Englewood Englewood Convent Convent Convent Avenu Av A Cathedral International Cathedral International Community Community Baptist Baptist Church Church of Englewood of Englewood Convent Convent Avenu Av Pastor-Elect JamesNew B. Logan VirginiaNew C. Jersey Logan Perth Amboy, Jersey and Lady-Elect Englewood, New York, New York

Photos: Seitu Oronde

Perth Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, Amboy, New New New Jersey Jersey Jersey Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, New New Jersey Jersey

Englewood, Englewood, Englewood, New New New Jersey Jersey Jersey Englewood, Englewood, New New Jersey Jersey

New New New York YY New New York

DONALD HILLIARD, JR. REV. DR. LESTER W. TAYLOR, JR. REV. DR. JESSE T. WILLIAMS, J arlem’s Shomburg Center for ResearchBISHOP in Black MESSIAH BAPTIST CHURCHSenior Pastor Pastor Senior Pastor Culture was the New York destination forCathedral a SeniorInternational 210 CONGRESS STREET MESSIAH BAPTIST CHURCH Community Baptist Church of Englewood Convent Avenue Baptist Chur MESSIAH MESSIAH MESSIAH MESSIAH MESSIAH BAPTIST BAPTIST BAPTIST BAPTIST BAPTIST CHURCH CHURCH CHURCH CHURCH CHURCH BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT 06604 Perth Amboy, New Jersey210 CONGRESS STREET Englewood, New Jersey New York, New York moving tribute for Newark native, the late poet, 210 210 210 210 CONGRESS 210 CONGRESS CONGRESS CONGRESS CONGRESS STREET STREET STREET STREET STREET (203) 368-2405 BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT 06604 author and community activist Amari Baraka. Artists and BRIDGEPORT, BRIDGEPORT, BRIDGEPORT, BRIDGEPORT, BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT 06604 06604 06604 06604 06604 SATURDAY, MARCH 15 SUNDAY,www.mymessiahbaptist.com MARCH 16 SUNDA (203) 368-2405 (203) (203) (203) (203) (203) 368-2405 368-2405 368-2405 368-2405 368-2405 community leaders gathered to Pastor remember the life and SATURDAY, MARCH 15 www.mymessiahbaptist.com SUNDAY, MARCH 16 SUNDAY, MESSIAH BAPTIST CHURCH Installation Luncheon Sunday Morning Worship InstallM www.mymessiahbaptist.com www.mymessiahbaptist.com www.mymessiahbaptist.com www.mymessiahbaptist.com www.mymessiahbaptist.com times of a cultural giant whose insightful continue 210 CONGRESS Pastorworks Installation Sunday Morning Worship Installatio 12:00 noon Luncheon 10:45STREET a.m. 4: to have impact, promoting pride and self-esteem BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT 12:00among noon 10:45 a.m. 06604 4:00 SATURDAY, SATURDAY, MARCH MARCH 15 15 SUNDAY, SUNDAY, MARCH MARCH 16 16 SUNDAY, SUNDAY, MARCH MARCH 16 16 (203) 368-2405 all who encounter hisPastor art. BISHOP DONALD HILLIARD, JR.Worship REV. DR. LESTER W. TAYLOR, JR. REV. DR. JES Pastor Installation Installation Luncheon Luncheon Sunday Sunday Morning Morning Worship Installation Service Installation Service www.mymessiahbaptist.com BISHOP DONALD HILLIARD, JR. REV. DR. LESTER W. TAYLOR, JR. REV. DR. JESSESen T noon 4:00 p.m. 12:00 noon 10:45 a.m. a.m. 4:00 p.m. Pastor Amiri Baraka passed away12:00 on January 9th at age 79. 10:45 Senior Pastor Senior Senior Pastor Senior Pastor Senior Cathedral International Baptist ChurchJR. of Englewood Convent Ave BISHOP BISHOP DONALD DONALD HILLIARD, HILLIARD, JR. JR. REV. REV. DR. DR. LESTER LESTER W. W. TAYLOR, TAYLOR,Community JR. JR. REV. REV. DR. DR. JESSE JESSE T. T. WILLIAMS, WILLIAMS, Cathedral International Community Baptist Church ofJR.Englewood Convent Avenue Senior Senior Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Senior Pastor Pastor Senior Pastor PastorNew Jersey Perth Amboy, New Jersey Englewood, New Yo Perth Amboy, New Jersey Englewood, New Jersey New York, Cathedral Cathedral International International Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, New New Jersey Jersey

Community Community Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Englewood Englewood Englewood, Englewood, New New Jersey Jersey

Convent Convent Avenue Avenue Baptist Baptist Church Church New New York, York, New New York York

MESSIAH BAPTIST CHURCH MESSIAH BAPTISTCHURCH CHURCH MESSIAH BAPTIST 210 CONGRESS STREET 210 CONGRESS STREET BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT 06604210 CONGRESS STREET BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT CONNECTICUT06604 06604 (203) 368-2405BRIDGEPORT, www.mymessiahbaptist.com (203) 368-2405

(203) 368-2405 www.mymessiahbaptist.com www.mymessiahbaptist.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

This traditional dance re-enacts the Jamaican Maroons' specialty: the ambush. It was once a secret ritual of the fierce bands of escaped slaves who won freedom by launching raids on planters' estates and repelling invasions of their forest havens with a mastery of guerrilla warfare.

Blowing of the abeng (cow horn) during celebrations. In times of war it was used to signal messages of impending danger.

Maroons of Jamaica Celebrate

he anticipation in the car was palpable as we crept along a narrow, unpaved mountain road, the driver using extreme caution as we often had to swerve precipitously to avoid oncoming traffic. Our destination was a remote location in the interior hills of Jamaica, West Indies, known as Cockpit country. It is part of the great White Limestone plateau with innumerable conical and hemispherical hills covered with dense scrubby trees, rising hundreds of feet above depressions and sinkholes with sharp, steep sides—the cockpits. The town of Accompong, in St. Elizabeth Parish, is a lush and largely undeveloped region, with plant life found nowhere else on earth. This is where we find Maroons— the New World's first freedom fighters—who inflicted Britain's military with its first defeat in the Americas. The 276th Annual Maroon celebration was being held here on January 6, 2014. One close friend of mine, Leonard McKenzie, had advised me that as a photographer working on the documentation of sacred traditions throughout the African Diaspora, I hadn’t truly explored Jamaica “until

The Positive Community February 2014

Photos and text by Bob Gore you’ve visited Maroon country.” In the past I have photographed The National Dance Theater Company, Rose of Sharon Praise House (Revivalist,) Webster Memorial United Church, Pentecostal Tabernacle, James Mountain House of God of Prophecy, Kingston Parish Church and the School of Vision (Rastafarian). In a practice that became known as “triangular trade,” European slave traders forced Africans onto slave ships. They transported them in horrific conditions across the Atlantic Ocean to work on plantations in North and South America, growing sugar, tobacco and cotton, which were exported to Europe, then arms and wines were delivered back to Africa and the process began again. Between 1500 and 1850 more than 11 million Africans arrived on European-owned plantations. The Maroon people of Jamaica put up fierce resistance to enslavement and escaped from the plantations by forming communities in the hills. The Accompong Maroons specifically used the cockpits to their advantage, navigating these depressions to www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dancing and singing traditional songs are central to the Maroon celebration.

Ceremonial meal of unsalted and unseasoned pork along with roasted yam. The hog used is always pure black and raised for ceremonial purposes. Participating in the meal is believed to bring good luck throughout the year Kindah’ is the name for ‘family’ and that is where the Maroon family has always congregated either to plan for warfare or to celebrate.

hide from the British. Covering themselves with foliage and trees so that they became invisible, the Maroons fired upon their enemies and escaped battle undetected. The British suffered great troop and financial losses forcing them to enter into a formal peace treaty with the Maroons. The annual January 6th celebration in Accompong is held on the birthday of Captain Cudjoe, a Maroon warrior who played a pivotal part in defeating the English army. Throughout the eighteenth century, Jamaican Maroons utilized frontier zones to maintain independence. Frontier zones were desolate, unoccupied areas that no group fully controlled because of the harsh environments. Jamaican Maroon groups lived autonomously from the late seventeenth century until the end of the eighteenth century, due to the inaccessibility of their villages and an expertise in unconventional warfare. In 1739, treaties ended years of fighting with the British colonists. This year, in spite of the heavy downpour, the celebration was joyous with visitors from many places. Among them, Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Hon. Lisa Hanna, www.thepositivecommunity.com

M.P.; other Jamaicans; tourists and a number of Americans—including a woman I know from Harlem. Drumming and singing of traditional Maroon songs began to echo across the surrounding cockpits as the ceremonial meal of unsalted and unseasoned pork, along with roosters, male plantains (horse plantains) and male yams were boiled and roasted. The long secretive Maroons previously guarded their culture against migration and assimilation, but are now going public, sharing their sacred songs, drumming, herbal medicine, talking to ancestral spirits, woodcarving, etc. Maroons are credited with inventing Jamaica's popular "jerk" style of cooking, in which aromatic spices are rubbed or stuffed into meat before it is roasted on an open fire. It was an exciting and uplifting experience for me and if I have my way, I'll be back again next year. To lean more: Google Maroons of Jamaica. See additional photographs at http://bobgore.smugmug.com February 2014 The Positive Community

CORRECTIONS Abyssinian Jazz Vespers Jan-June 2014 Series JANUARY 12 Wycliffe Gordon

n the Winter 2014 issue (page 18) the captions on the photos below were accidently reversed. The correct captions appear on the photos below.

FEBRUARY 2 Edmar Castaneda • MARCH 2 • Alicia Olatuja • APRIL 6 • Black Arts Jazz Collective Jeremy Pelt, Wayne Escoffery, James Burton, Xavier Davis, Dwayne Burno, Johnathan Blake • MAY 4 • Brianna Thomas • JUNE 1 • Steve Kroon Latin Jazz Sextet 4:00 PM | Doors Open 3:30 PM $20 - General Admission | $10 - Seniors & Students Taking place at

THE ABYSSINIAN BAPTIST CHURCH

132 Odell Clark Place | Harlem, NY 10030 Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III – Pastor

Jerome Davidson, owner, Promotions R Us, Princeton, NJ

Ozzie Mendez, president, Menco Business Products

On page 24 we indicated that Walker Memorial Baptist Church was formed in 1981. The correct date is 1881

S AVET HEDAT E S a t ur da y , Ma r c h29, 2014 10A. M. -2P . M.

Newar kLeader s hi pRoundt abl e

WOME NI NBUS I NE S S Be r ge nCommuni t yCol l e ge Pa r a mus , NJ Sponsored by

The Positive Community February 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Bethany Baptist Church Jazz Vespers

www.bethany-newark.org

JAZZ AT BETHANY February Newsletter

Hello and welcome to the February edition of the Bethany Baptist Church Jazz Vespers newsletter!! CONGRATULATIONS to former vespers artist Gregory Porter for winning the 2014 Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Gregory performed at Bethany in August of 2012.

THANK YOU to the faithful Jazz Vespers audience for contributing to the “Suede Shoe Fund” for our beloved Jimmy Heath. Jimmy and Dr. Howard traveled to Brooks Brothers in NYC to purchase the special shoes mentioned on the night of the James Moody Jazz Festival performance at Bethany.

Jazz Vespers Audience: Please continue to pledge your support towards the purchase of a new piano at Bethany.

Next Vespers: Saturday March 1st

DAVID HAZELTINE & FRIENDS 275 West Market Street, Newark NJ 07103

Using Your Power as a Consumer

By: Dedrick Muhammad

id you know that consumer spending equates to 70 percent of our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic activity? Often times this statistic is accompanied by inferences about consumerism and buying power as positive for the growth and stability of our economy. What we hear less frequently is about how this statistic can translate into significant social and economic power to affect change in our communities, change in the businesses we patronize and even change the world. For instance, this year we celebrated the 100th birthday of Rosa Parks, an economic justice pioneer responsible for launching the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a 361-day protest of the discriminatory treatment of African American bus riders. The boycott not only financially crippled the bus company, but led to the Supreme Court case Browder v. Gayle, which declared segregating buses unconstitutional.

The Positive Community February 2014

Similarly, other boycotts have been used to raise awareness around and put an end to unfair labor practices, animal testing, dangerous pesticide use, and other abuses of people and resources. Boycotts are a form of conscious consumerism, also referred to as dollar voting, and a powerful and effective form of activism. And using your dollars to influence business practices is an act that all consumers should consider. As demonstrated during the Montgomery Bus Boycott, African Americans wield significant buying power. According to a report by Nielsen and the National Newspaper Publishers Association, black buying power is projected to climb to $1.1 trillion by 2015. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, we are all connected to the marketplace and its business practices. The NAACP has recognized this, placing economic opportunity and fairness at the core of its work and advancing

campaigns to facilitate diversity and inclusion in leading businesses. In fact, this week, the NAACP launched web advocacy tools to help consumers identify which hotels are most racially inclusive in their employment and procurement. Change begins with each of us making more responsible purchasing decisions. Together we can take the steps necessary to advance a society that is more inclusive, fair and just for all. There are several resources available if you are interested in supporting minority owned businesses, buying green or even just looking for tips on how to start your conscious consumer journey. So, the next time you are about to make a purchase or planning your next event at a hotel, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just think about how that purchase makes you feel in that moment. Give thought to how the decision you make with your money could be the impetus to change that can have perhaps a much longer lasting impact. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Reverend Vernon Walton Says Farewell

he beloved Rev. Vernon Walton, pastor of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Englewood, NJ, led his final worship service as pastor of the historic church. It was standing room only on Sunday, January 12th as hundreds came out in loving support to hear Rev. Walton’s farewell message. His sermon spoke to the soul and spirit about servant leadership; loving, selfless service, “… And He Went a Little Further”. Rev. Walton has been very active in Bergen County over the years, serving as Freeholder, board member and trustee of a number of community organizations, as well as health and education institutions. His ministry has touched and improved the lives of many. Reverend Walton has accepted the assignment to lead the congregation of First Baptist Church in North West Vienna, Virginia.

Rev. Vernon Walton Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Rev. Walton and Deaconess Wilma Hardy

L–R: Ursula Parrish Daniels, Ed.D, executive assistant to the president, Bergen Community College; Rev. Walton and Yvonne Witter, president Bergen/Passaic Chapter 100 Black Women

L–R: Rev. Sheila Burns-Owens, Rev. Jeanette Fisher Caffie and Mother Linda Y. Martin www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Freeholder Chairman David L. Ganz; Dr. Joan Voss, Freeholder Vice Chairwoman and Former Freeholder John Mitchell with Rev. Walton February 2014 The Positive Community

100 Black Women, Inc. Honors Deborah “Beechie” Witcher Jackson L–R: Mary Ann Miller, Founding President NCBW BP and Beechie

Honoree Deborah “Beechie” Witcher Jackson Photos: Edward Chase Images

L–R: Beechie with President Yvonne Witter

L–R: Kay Lucas (Mediasense, Inc.), Arlene Vasquez and Sonya Collins (YWCA Bergen County Board Members) 100 Black Women Bergen/Passaic chapter

n a grand celebration on December 8, 2013 the National Coalition of 100 Black Women (NCBW 100) honored Deborah "Beechie" Witcher Jackson, the longest serving president of the Bergen/Passaic chapter. Jackson served 16 consecutive years on the chapter’s Board of Directors, president of the chapter for 10 of those 16 years and four years on the national Board. The Sunday afternoon brunch, which was held at the Assembly in Englewood Cliffs, was hosted by the chapter’s membership committee chaired by Vice President Jaclyn K. Durant, also a past president. “We wanted to show Beechie our appreciation for her persistent and consistent service, leadership, and support of building and branding NCBW Bergen/Passaic Chapter in our communities,” explained Durant. Past NCBW 100 presidents Rita Williams Bogar and Ursula Parrish Daniels Wilson, PhD. and other NCBW members shared similar sentiments. Some of the highlights of the event were reflections and acknowledgements of Beechie’s term of service by the chapter’s founding and chartering President Mary Ann Miller. A former resident of Teaneck, Miller now resides in Delaware, but wouldn’t have missed this celebration for any reason. Beechie receive many tokens of appreciation and well wishes, but the highest acknowledgement for her service

The Positive Community February 2014

By Jean Nash Wells

to Bergen and Passaic Counties as president of the chapter was the presentation of a Joint Legislative Resolution from the NJ State Senate and General Assembly, Senator Loretta Weinberg, Assemblyman Gordon Johnson and Assemblywoman Valerie Huttle. The presentation was made by Charter Member Jeannette Curtis-Rideau and newly-elected President Yvonne L. Witter. President Witter, who succeeded Beechie, thanked her for her leadership, saying she is “a living legend” in the annals of the 100 Black Women. President Witter expressed her determination to take NCBW 100 to the next level with advocacy programming, expansion of existing community partnerships as well as the building of new ones. Gracious in her acceptance of the praise and recognition bestowed upon her, Witcher Jackson remarked, “My terms as president would not have been as successful as they were without the support of the members of NCBW 100 and the community. I am very proud of all of the chapter’s accomplishments, especially when the chapter at the 2011 Biennial Conference received the Chapter of the Year Award. I look forward to many more years of involvement with NCBW and I am very pleased to now be called “Madame X.” For additional information about NCBW 100, please visit the chapter’s website at: www.ncbwbergenpassaic.org www.thepositivecommunity.com

Spoken Word Artist Cherrie Amour Wins Poetry Award

poken word artist Cherrie Amour, who recently released her first book of poetry, Free to Be Me: Poems on Life, Love and Relationships, presented her award-winning poem "Hermoso Negro" as part of the 2013 Allen Ginsberg Poetry Reading and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, February 1st at the Poetry Center at Passaic County Community College in Paterson, New Jersey. Cherrie’s poem, which received an honorable mention in the Center’s competition, was featured along with the work of several established and emerging poets at the event which honors the literary contributions of Ginsberg - the legendary Paterson, NJ-reared Beat poet and writer who passed away in 1997. Her poem “Hermosa Negro” (Handsome Black Man)— a remembrance of her father, is also included in her debut poetry collection and will be published in the Fall 2014 issue of The Paterson Literary Review. For more Cherrie Amour information, go to: www.cherrieamour.com.

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Spoken word artist Cherrie Amour (r) is congratulated by Maria Mazziotti Gillian (l), executive director of The Poetry Center at Passaic County Community College in Paterson, New Jersey

February 2014 The Positive Community

Celebrating the life of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Angela Davis, political activist

NYC First Lady Charline McGray and Mayor Bill de Blasio

Photos: Seitu Oronde

Rev. Michael Walrond

Rudy Crew, Medgar Evers College president

Harlem

Martin Luther King III with Rev. Dr. Serene Jones

Brooklyn

he annual commemoration of the Martin Luther King holiday—said to be the largest MLK celebration in New York City—took place again at the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn. Co-presented by the Brooklyn Borough President and Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York, the celebration featured a keynote address by author, professor, and activist Angela Davis. In addition, music was provided by José James and the BCCC Singers from the Christian Cultural Center, and a free screening of the documentary Free Angela Davis and All Political Prisoners. Other speakers included Sen. Charles E. Schumer; Rudy Crew, president of Medgar Evers College and NYC Council Speaker Melisa Mark-Viverito. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams served as emcee. The BAMcafé featured “Picture the Dream,” an exhibition of artwork inspired by Dr. King’s message of equality, created by students from NYCHA Saratoga Village Community Center.

The Positive Community February 2014

Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough President

eflecting on what the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday means during the annual service at Riverside Church honoring the fallen civil rights leader, his son, Martin Luther King III remarked, "When we think about a holiday usually it means pause, relaxing. This holiday is not about pausing and relaxing. It's about getting engaged. We did not achieve the realization of the dream last year and so every January, if we do not achieve it in the previous year we start anew.” In addition to the younger King, speakers included the Rev. Michael Walrond, senior pastor of the historic First Corinthian Baptist Church and Dream Center, who was the featured speaker; Riverside’s senior minister emeritus, the Rev. James A. Forbes Jr.; Attorney William Wachtel, founder of progressive policy think-tank the Drum Major Institute and the Rev. Dr. Serene Jones, president of Union Theological Seminary. The theme of the celebration, which was held on Sunday morning, January 19, was “Realizing the Dream: A Call to Conscience “and featured a performance of “Let Justice Roll” by Mark Miller, accompanied by a mass choir including members of the Riverside Inspirational Choir and the Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble. Dr. King gave his historic “Beyond Vietnam” speech condemning the “triple evils of racism, economic exploitation and militarism” at Riverside Church on April 4, 1967. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark

n Wednesday, January 29, 2014, Mayor Luis A. Quintana, the Newark Municipal Council, Business Administrator Julien X. Neals, Esq., and other dignitaries celebrated the City of Newark’s 26th annual “Sing in Praise of King.” In a surprise move, Mayor Quintana presented keynote speaker Dr. Clement Alexander Price, Rutgers-Newark History professor, with framed letters appointing him the official Historian of the City of Newark, in addition to the Key to the City. Dr. Price will chair the committee organizing observances of the 350th anniversary of the City’s founding in May 2016. Dr. Price has been lauded nationally for his brilliant scholarship and moving written works about the modern American experience, which have energized and empowered generations of university students and Newarkers alike. His “commitment to Newark and its people are unmatched, and his wisdom is valued by media, political leadership, and academics alike,” remarked Mayor Quintana.

L-R: Mayor Luis A Quintana, Dr. Clement A. Price and Dr. Price’s wife, Mary Sue Sweeney Price

Newark Boys Chorus School Apprentice Choir sang the National Anthem. At right is Municipal Council Vice President Augusto Amador. www.thepositivecommunity.com

February 2014 The Positive Community

Vaughn Harper

Presents FIRST FRIDAY’s

Newark NAACP Celebrates 100 Years of Service

Friday,January March 7th, Friday 3, 2014 2013

A Monthly Gathering For Mature Adults

Featuring Live Music By:

The Fred Mac Band and DJ Darryl James

Doors Open at 7:30 Admission $20 in Advance $25 At The Door

For Tickets Go To:

Conveniently Located At MIST Harlem 46W. 116th Street New York, NY

The Positive Community February 2014

he national NAACP was founded in 1909 for the purpose of working to achieve equal rights and to eliminate racial prejudice in the United States. In December 1913, 79 men and women came together to form the Newark, New Jersey Branch of the NAACP. The branch was chartered July 7, 1914. Today, the Newark NAACP Branch stands as the second oldest unit and largest branch in the state. In New Jersey, some of the issues confronted by the Newark Branch have included racial profiling, the state takeover of public schools in 1995 and revealing the major health issue the AIDS epidemic presents to the community. Members have diligently worked to monitor and eradicate discriminatory hiring and promotion practices in the public and private sector by educating people of their constitutional rights and exercising lawful action when necessary. “While much has changed, much has not,” noted President Deborah Smith-Gregory. “We remain committed to the principal objectives of the NAACP. We do not live in a post-racial society and the fight for racial equality on all fronts remains a key issue.” Like many of her predecessors, Smith-Gregory has taken on the issue of education as a top priority. “In celebrating 100 years of service, we are reminded of the steadfastness and commitment of past presidents who embraced education as a route toward equity and parity. They believed education to be the strongest method to ensure full participation in the American economy.” The Newark NAACP has many activities planned throughout the year to salute 100 years of community service. The kickoff weekend held in January, featured collaboration with the MLK salute at NJPAC and a teen “Dream Summit.” For more information or to be placed on a mailing list, call 973-624-6400 or email Newarknaacp@gmail. com. For social media updates, like Newark NAACP fan page on Facebook. —JNW www.thepositivecommunity.com

Saturday, March 22, 2014 • 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Conference Keynote Speaker and Miracle Sunday Evangelist:

Ordained minister, emmy nominated executive producer and television personality, judge, author, entrepreneur

ADVANCE REGISTRATION: $25.00/$30.00 (DOOR) $15.00 (STUDENTS) Includes Continental Breakfast and Lunch To purchase tickets and get more information visit www.shilohplainfield.org or call 908.754.3353, X-108

General Admission: $20.00/$25.00 (DOOR) Register for the Women’s Conference and get your ticket for $15.00!

GOSPEL SONGSTRESS

GOSPEL HIP-HOP ARTIST

NANCY JACKSON-JOHNSON

BROTHER HAHZ

SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH

515-521 West 4th Street • Plainfield, NJ 07060

Rev. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Ph.D., Pastor Rev. Sheila L. Thorpe, Assistant Pastor/Minister of Christian Education

Hosted by: LIZ BLACK

RADIO PERSONALITY AND HOST OF “INSPIRATIONS WITH LIZ”

MIDDLE AGED LOVE Continued from page 30

abilities. We discover that a ring on the finger doesn’t necessarily mean harmony, experience a sense of freedom from what other people think and do, and become acquainted with the mountaintop of maturity, spirituality and wisdom. The phenomenal thing about this adventure in learning ourselves is that it actually makes us more attractive to the opposite sex. We no longer exist in a state of neediness. We are able to bring more to the table.

And, we become powerbrokers in the game of negotiation helping to get more of our needs met. Today, when I meet a single man, I’m more interested in how he negotiates his own waters of middle age, not only how he is with me, but how he is when he is alone or with his friends and family. Does he have a personal peace about him? Does he have a personal relationship with his Creator? Does he take good care of himself? Can he manage money

Your Future Is Right Around The Corner ●●●

Are you a natural caregiver or an LPN/CNA ready for the next step? Essex County College prepares students for entry level positions in hospitals and other health care facilities. Our nursing graduates are eligible to take the certification exam (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse.

Essex County College offers three programs of study:

• A.A.S. in Nursing • A.A.S. in Nursing: LPN Articulation Option • LPN Program (Academic Certificate) The Essex Experience:

• Cutting-edge Curriculum Taught by Caring Faculty • State-of-the-art Technology and Facilities • Notably High Pass Rate on NCLEX Exam • Clinical Experience at Local Hospitals For more information call 973.877.1868 www.essex.edu/divisions/nursing/

The ECC nursing programs are accredited by the National League of Nursing Accreditation Commission and by the NJ Board of Nursing

The Positive Community February 2014

well? How does he treat women? Does he have a personal passion for life? Can he converse and interact with me and not seek to dominate me? What does he bring to the table? Does he respect himself? Can he respect me? If the answers to these questions are positive, then, yes, he is attractive to me as well. These are the types of relationships that last and bring joy and contentment to one another’s hearts. A pastor friend of mine once told me that “marriage is ministry.” I whole-heartedly agree, or at least it’s what I want to believe. I have a deep need to attach weight to my own well-being as well as that of others. And, isn’t that the purpose of ministry: to foster healing, to accommodate success, to administer and share peace? Surely, these are characteristics of love. It is difficult to realize these things at younger ages. Often, it takes a bit of living and learning to reach the point where you no longer devour your own self in the search to meet your own needs: the sexual exploits, the greed for material things, and the dismissal of others’ needs in lieu of self-importance. Childish as they may seem, many people have not been delivered from total self-satisfaction. Spinster or not, I find myself more content than I’ve ever been. I’m able to leave work at work; I have the ability to write consistently, uninterrupted by my own demons; I enjoy my family and friends; and, even at this age, I truly believe that life isn’t over yet. Now Valentine’s Day reminds me how much I would like to be in a committed relationship and how much I have to give to that relationship and I smile when I think of the potential within me. So, yes, here I am at 56. Never married, yes; desiring companionship, yes, and scaling the mountain of maturity, thank God! Quinita Edmonia Good is the founder and operator of Qwrites Writing & Editorial Services. She can be reached at qwrites@live.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

JOANNE J. NOELLE SELAH!

Professor Joanne J. Noel, B.A., M.A., M. DIV., DMIN is Assistant Professor of English and Director, Instructional Resource Center at Somerset Christian College

The Tenacity of a Spider: Strategic Perseverance The Itsy Bitsy Spider climbed up the waterspout. Down came the rain, and washed the spider out. Out came the sun, and dried up all the rain And then Itsy Bitsy Spider climbed up the spout again.

any of us are familiar with the nursery rhyme about a daring spider that ascends, descends, and reascends a waterspout. Depending on whether you are talking to a pessimist, optimist, or a realist, the theme of this nursery rhyme is either stupidity bordering on insanity, or tenacity and hope. The miniscule creature embraces the challenge of ascending this waterspout and when the spider encounters the obstacle of the rain, it waits for the right time (up came the sun and dried up all the rain) to attempt the task again. Some see the spider’s determination as stupidity—attempting to go up a waterspout (a gutter attached to a house) makes no sense; it’s insane for a small creature to attempt such a colossal task because it’s an attempt in futility— doing the same thing and expecting favorable results. Others applaud the spider for its tenacity. Some of us are like that itsy bitsy spider, and the waterspout becomes a metaphor for our relationships, our businesses, and the way we do church. We have tenacity, audacity, strength, and determination. But is it channeled in the right place? Should we be climbing up waterspouts or around them? Which waterspout should we climb in the first place? If the waterspout is a metaphor for the experiences we have in life, then questions such as the following make sense: Is the relationship we are pursuing the right one for us? Is the start-up we are pumping money into the one that will yield a profit? Is our way of doing church the best way to maximize our witness and effect? Is our perseverance channeled appropriately? When does perseverance become insanity? I applaud the tenacity of the spider because, if as some suggest, the spider had spun its web on top of that spout and needed to get to it, then the spider had set herself a goal that she was willing to relentlessly pursue before she

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gave up. She had strategic perseverance. Perseverance not channeled strategically can be defined as insanity, but a lack of perseverance can bespeak fear of risk-taking, laziness, and hopelessness. Furthermore, tenacity is neither insanity nor stupidity when it is strategically focused against injustice. The tenacity exemplified by justice fighters is appropriate. For example, it is estimated that about 100, 000 slaves escaped to freedom via the Underground Railroad, and yet Harriet Tubman tenaciously insisted, “If I could have convinced more slaves that they were slaves, I could have freed thousands more.” In addition, although they experienced beatings and arrests, acidic hostility and petrifying hatred, the Freedom Riders (about 400), fighting against Jim and Jane Crow laws in the South, manifested in the form of bus segregation, continued to ride buses through the South despite the potential threat to their lives. The rides began in May 1961, and by September, the tenacity—strategic perserverance— of the riders had paid off; the Interstate Commerce Commission delivered an order to end segregation on buses and the railway. They could have given up on the grounds that the waterspout of injustice was colossal or the hindrances that rained down on them were overwhelming. However, it seemed that the sun of encouragement shown through a vision of a preferred future reality for their sons and daughters. And principles and values rooted in biblical truth encouraged their resolve. The Bible encourages perseverance in general (Gal 6.9; Rev. 2.10; Rom. 12.12), but strategic perseverance is contextual. Each individual has to wisely discern the level of perseverance for each situation, as suggested in the prayer of theologian Reinhold Niebuhr: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” Finally, the spider in the children’s song makes us ponder whether or not our perseverance is stupid and borderline insane, or strategically placed for maximum effect. February 2014 The Positive Community

From Our Hearts to Your Hearts! From Our Hands To Your Hands!

People Helping People . . . Let the Florence E. Browne Funeral Home family care for your family during your difficult season of bereavement. In business since 1912, our full service funeral home is well-known for its compassionate, professional & excellent service. Our staff is always available to assist you through the grieving process.

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The Little Chapel with a Big Heart 68

The Positive Community February 2014

For many years Florence E. Browne has served many communities locally and abroad. Feel free to visit our Funeral Home located in the Village of Harlem, New York. Our Service Family would be more than happy to sit and answer your questions regarding funeral arrangements, cremations & pre-arrangements. In addition, we provide notary services as well as referrals for anyone desiring professional grief counseling.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Hammer South Sudan’s Swords into Plowshares “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” —Matthew 5:14-16 (New American Standard Bible)

esus Christ taught the above words to His disciples as part of The Sermon on the Mount. At another place and time, Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” (John 8:12, NASB) So it is Jesus’ light shining through Christians that should lead others to glorify the God. Christ also preached “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NASB), and commanded Christians to love one another (John 13:34). The Republic of South Sudan, located in East Africa, is the newest nation state on earth. Most South Sudanese people are Christian, according to a 2012 U.S. State Department report and other information I have read and heard. Nonetheless, I think that the internal warfare that occurred within South Sudan from December 2013 through January 2014 was un-Godly. That behavior did not showcase the Light of the Prince of Peace shining through His people. Northern Sudan is largely Muslim. Its ruling class considers itself Arab, although most would pass for AfricanAmerican if they silently walked the streets of South Chicago, Newark, or Central Brooklyn. During the late 20th century and into the early 21st century, when Northern and Southern Sudan were one country (called simply “Sudan”) ruled by the “Arabs” of the north, the people of the south fought for and achieved independence in 2011. Yet, on December 15, 2013, internal warfare broke out in South Sudan. The following is a summary of events: In July 2013, former South Sudan Vice President Rick Machar was ousted from his post. In December 2013, President Salva Kiir accused Machar of attempting a coup d’état. Machar denied the charge and fled. Army defectors and ethnic militia loyal to Machar then warred against government forces for at least five weeks in December through

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January. Ugandan troops fought alongside South Sudanese government forces. The fighting killed approximately 10,000 people; the conflict uprooted some half a million people from their homes. United Nations bases in Southern Sudan sheltered almost 70,000 of those uprooted, and refugees streamed across borders into Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia and Kenya. Given the initially discussed pronouncements of Christ, none of this should have happened in a predominantly Christian nation. But warfare and mass violence have occurred frequently in Africa since European colonialism ended in the late years of the 20th century. Affected countries have included Central African Republic, Chad, CongoKinshasa, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Ruanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan (including Darfur), and others. In earlier centuries, internal African warfare facilitated the transatlantic slave trade even before Europeans were militarily strong enough to penetrate past the African coast. From the 1500s through the 1800s, traditional African nations fought each other and sold captives to European traders stationed at the Atlantic Ocean who, in turn, re-sold those captives into chattel slavery in the Caribbean, South America, and North America. But a predominantly Christian African country should behave differently. I consider it significant that Ethiopia, arguably the oldest “Christian nation” in the world, was the place where, on January 23, 2014, the warring factions in South Sudan signed the ceasefire agreement. Thank God for that signing. Hopefully, peace continues in South Sudan as you read this column in February 2014. Christ commands reconciliation. Prior to His ascension into heaven, Jesus Christ commanded His followers, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit…” (Matthew 28:19, NASB). Today, Christianity is spreading faster in Africa than in most parts of the world. Hopefully this will, in the long run, result in less warfare and mass violence in Africa. I realize, of course, that for many centuries, European and Western Hemisphere nations and peoples who have considered themselves Christian have initiated wars. But we should not copycat them. We should obey Christ. February 2014 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

www.thepositivecommunity.com February 2014

™

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 14, No. 2

SHOW ME SOME LOVE

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

s February flies by in a blur of snow storms, chocolates and Black History, I’d like to take the time to ask you to Robert Dixon Nash show me some and grandson, Dillon love! Sure, we Robert McAuley always hear about St. Valentine’s Day in February, and just try to say the word “February” and not have someone mention Black History to you. But I’m combining the two in a show of love for black culture, black people and black things this month and I’m asking you to join me! As MeShell Ndgeocello once said, “I need some black on black love, Baby!” I’m tired of the media plastering unsavory and unflattering images of my beautiful people on every website and news show and in every newspaper and magazine! Instead of cringing at the latest violence and crime statistics, I want to celebrate Gabe Sonnier, the man who started out as a janitor at a Louisiana elementary school and after going to college and graduate school, is now the principal. Did you hear about California’s Keenia Williams? She is an everyday person just like you and me, except that in October 2011, she witnessed a fiery crash on a highway and stopped, then pulled an unconscious man from the flames, saving his life. As if that wasn’t enough, in January 2014, she witnessed yet another accident on the highway and pulled a woman from an overturned car. Oh, and when interviewed she said, “That’s my God, my Father upstairs — He’s telling me this must be my calling!” God is good! It made me smile to see so many people at the Schomburg on a wintry Friday afternoon, enjoying the “Funky Turns 40” exhibit of 70s African American animation and

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR

Contributing Writers Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Patricia Baldwin Doris Young Boyer Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Glenda Cadogan Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Hubert Williams

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman

The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: news@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.

70 The Positive Community

The Last Word

February 2014

“Motown: The Truth is a Hit.” Is there any better way to spend a cold winter day than with the animation of our youth and the soundtrack of black America? Those exhibitions were much more rewarding than a box of chocolates and definitely much kinder to my hips. Love warms our hearts and our souls in the coldest, darkest weather. Here in the NY/NJ area, we’ve been hit hard by storm after storm this winter. It wouldn’t be so bad if the temperatures would rise enough to melt the snow (like they did for the Super Bowl), but we’ve had no such luck with the weather. But love has warmed my heart during these cold days and nights. First, my younger cousin — the last of my generation — and her husband welcomed a healthy, beautiful baby boy! Little Dillon Robert doesn’t just warm my heart, he MELTS it! A perfect, tiny, priceless bundle of hope and promise. And to compound the love and warmth, Dillon Robert is my Uncle Bobby’s namesake and also the first grandchild for him and his wife, Aunt Josie. Less than two weeks after Dillon Robert’s birth, about 30 members of our family braved cold and ice to gather to celebrate Uncle Bobby’s 78th birthday! Family, friends, food and fun were the order of that special Friday night, and we celebrated Black History by hearing my mother tell stories from her brother’s youth. February for me is no longer just about Black History Month and Valentine’s Day. Going forward, we should all recognize and celebrate those who came before us and their myriad accomplishments and sacrifices. However, we should also laud our present and our future. Let’s make February the month where we mark our everyday efforts and triumphs as milestones in our Black History, Black Present and Black Future. Show me the love! www.thepositivecommunity.com

We’re Coming to AlbAny beCAuse it’s time for A ChAnge. the sCAffold lAW is killing jobs We so bAdly need And killing businesses in our Communities.

it’s time to reform the sCAffold lAW And stop reWArding riCh triAl lAWyers At the expense of our Communities.

The Unfair Scaffold law iS… mAking ConstruCtion sites less sAfe for Workers

forCing our Children into oVerCroWded ClAssrooms And rAt-infested trAilers

We CAn’t hAVe business As usuAl beCAuse We’re in A Crisis.

we need albany To reform The Scaffold law now. Visit www.getnybuilding.com to see how you can help.

rev. jacques Andre de graff

C0-ChAirmen

the new Agenda

louis j. Coletti

president and Ceo of the building trades employers Association

leAdership CounCil Quenia Abreu New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce lloyd douglas Minority Business Leadership Council Walter edwards Harlem Business Alliance michael elmendorf Associated General Contractors of NYS david etkind Interior Demolition Contractors Association monica foster NYS Association of Minority Contractors james heyliger Association of Minority Enterprises

edwin lopez NYC Electrical Contractors timothy h. marshall Jamaica Business Resource Center Cheryl mckissack Women Business Council paul o’brien Building Contractors Association samuel p. padilla, p.e. National Hispanic Business Group nayan parikh Indo-American Architects & Engineers patricia ricketts Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce

tony saporito Mechanical Contractors Association William shuzman Allied Building Metal Industries elizabeth Velez Latino Builders Council edwin lopez New York City Chapter, Inc. NECA kieran Ahern Structural Steel Painting Contractor Association ray mcguire Contractors Association of Greater New York

William rothberg Boilermakers Association of Greater New York, Building Restoration Contractors Association, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors of NY john delollis Association of Wall-Ceiling & Carpentry Industries jerry haber Window & Plate Glass Dealers Association kevin o’Callaghan The Hoisting and Scaffolding Trade Association Vincent Coletti Plastering & Spray Fireproofing Contractors Association

jobs, sAfety And justiCe Paid for by the Alliance for Minority and Women Construction Businesses.

www.amwcb.com

HONOR YESTERDAY WITH CARE FOR TOMORROW This Black History Month, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all start living healthier lives. Black History Month is a time to remember, reflect and celebrate. It is a time when we think about the people who have inspired change and made history. At EmblemHealth we care, and we believe that everyone has the potential to have a positive impact on their family, friends and community. EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care is one way we are here for you. It is a place where you can have a face-to-face conversation and learn how to lead a healthier life. Visit ehnc.com to learn more. Together we can live a healthier today and make history tomorrow.

emblemhealth.com