June/July 2019 by The Positive Community

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J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 9

CONTENTS

SECTIONS MONEY ................................... 11 HEALTH................................... 16 EDUCATION............................. 35 CULTURE ................................ 45

Features Win, Rock, Rule! ...................................................... 11

28 ON THE COVER:

Cover photo: Bob Gore

Congressman Hakeem Jeffries: Even when the Brooklyn native is down, he’s never out

Wells Fargo Funds Grameen .................................... 12 Sistahs in Business ................................................. 13 AA Chamber Honors Women .................................... 14 Newark Public Lecture ............................................. 16 Harlem Seniors Chat & Chew ................................... 18 Historic Bethany Baptist Celebration ....................... 19 Newark’s Senior Fashion Show ................................ 20

SPECIAL SECTION: 37

Two Events That Changed Brooklyn .......................... 24

HOORAY FOR THE GRADUATES!

Clergy Meet with Elected Officials ............................ 30

&also inside

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

LaKeesha Walrond Leads NYTS ................................ 35 Saunders Joins Parole Board ................................... 43 Honors at the Newark Museum ............................... 45

My View ............................................. 10 Turtle Back Zoo Gala ............................................... 46 Fitness Doctor .................................... 22 NJ UMBC Meets ...................................................... 48 Gospel Train ....................................... 54 Gospelfest Honors Aretha ........................................ 49 The Way Ahead .................................. 57 Children Are Our Future ........................................... 50 The Last Word .................................... 62 4

The Positive Community June/July 2019

Mastering Microsoft Word ....................................... 60 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Universal values. Personal attention. The students at Touro NYSCAS come from all walks of life, but share the same inner drive—and we’re here to help. No matter your background or intended future, we’ll give you the support you need to turn your goals into real achievements.

Learn more at NYSCAS.Touro.edu 212.463.0400 x55500 Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, visit www.touro.edu

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GREAT

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MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

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

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

Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor

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

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

Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor

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

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

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

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

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor

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

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

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor

Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor

Agape Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry

Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Jr., Pastor Elizabeth, NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Patricia Perkins-Auguste Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY

Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor

Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Baptist of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor

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

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

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor Mt. Zion B.C., Westwood, NJ New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. John Baptist Church, Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor St. Paul’s B.C., Montclair, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. Paul Baptist Church, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor

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

Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor

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

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

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

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

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, East Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C. Williams, Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

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

ERIC C. ADAMS GUEST EDITORIAL

Your Body, Your Temple Ministering for Total Health: Mind Body and Spirit

eing in “good health” is not just a matter of the physical fitness of the body. It encompasses a holy trinity, if you will, of the mind, body, and spirit being in healthy and harmonious alignment. This places our faith leaders in the unique position of having a moral obligation to minister to the total health of their congregations, ensuring that while they are supporting the faithful in receiving nourishing food for the soul, they are helping congregants fuel their bodies and brains with a nutritious menu to live by, as well. By modeling healthy behaviors while guiding their congregations in wellness and spirit, our faith leaders have the opportunity to restore hope for those struggling with their physical well-being. My own health seemed hopeless just two years ago when I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. I nearly lost my eyesight, and was thought to have permanent nerve damage. But I am a living witness to the transformative power of food, as I can now share that after deciding to switch to a whole-food, plant-based diet, my symptoms reversed in just three months. It taught me an important lesson: chronic disease is not hereditary, it’s dietary. Just ask my mother; she reversed her diabetes without taking any medicine. Scripture reminds us our bodies are temples of God: when we honor our bodies, we honor Him. In my capacity as Brooklyn Borough President, I work daily to serve as an advocate for such initiatives as promoting vegan lifestyles, cutting the salt/curbing the sugar, and pushing for local, public schools to adopt Meatless Mondays menus — all in an effort to make our kids, communities, and planet healthier. We all know the church repast after Sunday service is an important and cherished tradition, providing an opportunity for worshippers to fellowship together. Typically, however, the food is high in sodium, sugar,

8 The The Positive Positive Community Community

June/July 2019 2019 June/July

Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams (center-right) joined with faith leaders from across the Borough to launch the Clergy Healthy Lifestyle Challenge last year. L-R: Pastor Laurel Scott of Newman Memorial United Methodist Church; Pastor Trevor Hyde of Berean Baptist Church; Nahed Abuella of Multicultural Community Organization of New York; Reverend Marilyn Jackson of Unity East Church Center; Sakibeh Mustafa of The Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC); Pastor Gwen Dingle of Pentecostal House of Prayer; Pastor Joseph Turner of Ninth Tabernacle Beth-El, Gilda Caputo-Hansen of TBHC; Pastor Gilford T. Monrose of Mt. Zion Church of God 7th Day; and Elisa Hligar of Christian Cultural Center.

saturated fat, and trans-fat. And though lovingly prepared, it is causing us genuine harm. The science is crystal clear on the power of a wholefood, plant-based diet for reversing chronic diseases. People who eat vegetarian or plant-based diets are at reduced risk of developing health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and even certain forms of cancer. This science should now be tested and practiced in our church kitchens and at church-sponsored events whenever a menu is prepared. I am calling on our faith-based leaders to lead the charge. My office has been proud to partner with faith-based institutions in the past to promote healthy lifestyles. Last year, our office joined with the Brooklyn Hospital group of Brooklyn clergy to announce the Clergy Healthy Lifestyle Challenge, a 12-week program that aimed to involve faith leaders in a healthy lifestyle program that provides tools to get healthier and, in turn, spread the word — and the guidelines they learn — to their communities. One participant, Reverend Fred Lucas, was so inspired by our challenge he convened a health ministry to continue the conversation around a healthy lifestyle. Our office assisted him, providing funding to bring a dietician to speak to his ministry. We’re not stopping there. In the fall, we will co-sponsor a plant-based summit at Christian Community Center in East New York, one of the largest churches in Brooklyn. The event will feature talks, panel discussions, and exhibitions focused on how adopting a plant-based lifestyle is good for your body, your soul, and the earth. We must do all we can to help one another along on the way to good health. And the journey might be a marathon, rather than a sprint, but what’s important is that you get started. www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

T:7”

I’m still here because NewYork-Presbyterian is here. T:4.75”

Raymond came in with an aortic tear. He left with a new way to live.

506 6TH STREET BETWEEN 7TH AND 8TH AVENUES

RAYMOND Brooklyn, NY Survived an aortic tear

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Round: FINAL

2nd Sunday - youth Sunday holy communion..............................................8:00 am tribe leaders...........................................................9:00 am church school leaders......................9:00 am 3rd Tuesday board of trustees...........................................7:00 pm 4th Friday family night (members only)...........7:00 pm 4th Sunday anointing.....................................................................8:00 am

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

Rev. Nance is a retired pastor, radio talk show host, and documentary filmmaker.

No More Teachers, No More Books, Our Schools are Receiving Dirty Looks

t’s been sixty-five years since the United States Supreme Court declared school segregation unequal and unconstitutional in the landmark ruling Brown v. Board of Education. At the time it seemed American education would be forever changed and justice would be coming swiftly to the classrooms used by poor, brown, and black American boys and girls. If we fast forward to the twenty first century, we will find schools are once again segregated and it was done

54 The Positive Community 10

June/July 2019

by cultural setbacks, not by laws on the books. It was done stealthily as whites left the cities for the suburbs and took with them the tax dollars that paid for what were once the good schools. Now, they’re known as “inner city” or “minority majority” schools and the students are called “underprivileged” and “underserved.” Anyway, the late actress Ruby Dee said she wasn’t sure that landmark decision had become the be-all end-all it was to have been. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said the issue was not about desegregation, it was about access; access to better schools, better books, cosmetically beautiful schools with manicured landscapes, and the smell of new paint when you return to school in September (but somehow our schools got lead paint). Today we have watched the erosion of all we fought for. All somebody fought for. Those same urban schools still lack resources and usually have their cultural programs deleted. Removing music, art, and dance is bad enough, but the afterschool programs, too? And why aren’t there more teachers and administrators who look like us? We keep hearing about the disciplinary disparities between white and non-white children in school. Could that maybe have something to do with the people deciding the discipline and any personal biases they might hold? And what about the school budgets in these areas? We’re not asking for world-class labs and Olympic-sized pools. We just want the little, red schoolhouse to have doors on the bathroom stalls in the girls’ lavatories, decent food for the students, and maybe gym, music, or art classes. We thank those stalwart students who put their lives on the line for freedom in 1954. But, it is still an uphill climb for generations yet unborn because we want those in charge to do the right thing. Where did we go wrong? That is the rhetorical question. We are regressing, and we didn’t see it coming. Education is still the way out for the poor kid, the black kid, and the immigrant kid. It’s been sixty-five years and counting. Where do we go from here? www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Win Rock Rule Women's Empowerment

NJ Senator M. Teresa Ruiz

Leon Ellis

Another Successful Dee C. Marshall Event

L–R: NJ Secretary of State Tahesha Way; Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche, founder of Live Richer Academy; Dee C. Marshall, founder of Win Rock & Rule Women’s Empowerment and CEO of Diverse. Tiffany received the Win Rock & Rule Game Changer Award

Faith & Love Fuel His Vision By Glenda Cadogan

he’s a powerful speaker and motivator and champion of women and her annual event, Win Rock & Rule Women’s Empowerment attracts scores of women who want to be like Dee. The filled to capacity event on April 5, 2019 at the Prudential Conference Center in Newark featured thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

speakers and facilitators from a wide range of industries providing valuable information on careers, potentials, and possibilities for living a more rewarding life. The event was sponsored by Prudential, Newark Beth Israel, and Newark CEDC. Summer 2017 The Positive Community 17 June/July 2019 The Positive Community 11

Wells Fargo Award $400,000 to Grameen America Funds will support low-income women entrepreneurs in Harlem and Newark

L–R: Jill Monum, senior director, Corporate Partnerships & Engagement at Grameen America; Deborah Smith, NY, NJ, CT Community Affairs manager, Wells Fargo; Alethia Mendez, vice president, Operations & Program Strategy at Grameen America; Mindee Barham, vice president of Development at Grameen America; and Catherine Domenech, New York Community Relations senior consultant, Wells Fargo.

ells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) awarded New York-based Grameen America $400,000 in grant funds and $7.5 million in lending capital through the Wells Fargo Works for Small Business: Diverse Community Capital program. The Diverse Community Capital program awards lending capital and grants to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), like Grameen America, which in turn deliver responsible, affordable financial products to diverse small business owners who do not typically have access to conventional financing. Wells Fargo has now exceeded its initial $75 million commitment for the Diverse Community Capital program, and an additional $100 million from the Wells Fargo Foundation has already been pledged to continue the program at least into 2020. With the latest round of funding, Wells Fargo reaffirmed its commitment to CDFIs serving urban centers, like New York, recognizing the importance of supporting diverse small businesses in the nation’s largest cities. “Diverse female small business owners in Harlem and Newark who would not otherwise have access to the resources needed to start or grow their businesses will now have resources through our support of Grameen America,” said Deborah Smith, Community Affairs manager for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. “The Diverse Community Capital program is just one of the ways we’re proud to support the growth of the local economy.” The grant will support Grameen America’s growth in Harlem, New York, and Newark, New Jersey, enabling the organization to reach a diverse population of low-income

The Positive Community June/July 2019

women entrepreneurs with their microloan and assetand credit-building programs. In Harlem, the funds will enhance program operations and oversight, staff training and expansion, and technical support. They anticipate reaching over 1,700 African-American women entrepreneurs by the end of 2020 with $9 million in microloans. In Newark, the funds will help Grameen America’s young branch there, allowing the organization to expand its staff and programs to reach the city’s diverse communities. Their goal is to reach over 2,500 low-income women entrepreneurs in Newark by the end of 2020 with over $14 million in microloans. “This funding is crucial to our efforts to expand opportunity for women living in poverty in Harlem and Newark,” said Andrea jung, president and CEO of Grameen America. “We will be able to reach more women entrepreneurs who want to build their businesses, create jobs, and help revitalize local communities.” Across the country, Diverse Community Capital awardees have closed more than $391 million through more than 8,000 loans to diverse small business clients. Diverse small businesses that received loans from awardee CDFIs have retained more than 21,000 jobs and created more than 15,000 jobs as a result of accessing the capital and development services they needed. The Diverse Community Capital program is a collaboration between Wells Fargo and Opportunity Finance Network, a national network of CDFIs. Opportunity Finance Network offers a social capital component of the program, which focuses on helping CDFIs grow stronger through activities including in-person networking, mentorship, consulting, and peer learning. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Sistahs in Business

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Sistahs In Business Expo CEO Aisha Taylor

Media correspondent Khalilah Webster, SIBEXPO Founder and CEO Aisha Taylor Issah, and actress Vivica A. Fox

BY TEVRA FRANCIS

n a spring Saturday in New Jersey, over 1,200 people gathered at the Sistahs In Business Expo to shop, network, and be inspired! #SIBEXPONJ on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at the Robert Treat Hotel in downtown Newark. With its mission of celebrating and supporting entrepreneurial Women of Color, the event included over 100 women-owned businesses, food from local eateries, music, speakers, and informative panels featuring successful local business women and published authors. Actress, author, and entrepreneur, Vivica A. Fox and relationship expert Charreah Jackson each delivered inspiring talks, then bantered with their fans while signing

Vivica A. Fox, author of Everyday I'm Hustling with members of Newark G.A.L.S, Inc.

copies of their most recent books. It was not only a day of fun and fellowship for all, but an informative and lucrative one for many participating businesses. #SIBEXPONJ was definitely the place to be on that Saturday and it will be back next year! Photos: Toks Aadesanya and Raymond Hagans

Pretty Girlz Love God, LLC

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June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: NJ Schools Development Authority CEO Lizette Delgado Polanco; CCA Director of Business Development and Community Affairs and keynote speaker Chrystal H. Stowe; Newark Alliance President/CEO, Aisha Glover; AACCNJ Founder, President and CEO John E. Harmon, Sr.; JSSB Consulting Founder/CEO Joanne Brooks; and Covenant Business Concepts, LLC President/CEO Willie Mae Veasy

Women Who Empower Honored by African American Chamber

he spotlight was on “Women Who Empower” at the awards luncheon hosted by the African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ (AACCNJ) on May 9, 2019 at Pines Manor in Edison, NJ. In her

SAVE THE DATE

keynote, Chrystal H. Stowe, CCA director of Business Development and Community Affairs, confirmed the event title in no uncertain terms. Awards went to five Women Who Empower: Joanne Brooks, founder/CEO JSSB Consulting; Linda Coles, Media Relations manager, NJM Insurance Group; Aisha Glover, president/CEO, Newark Alliance; Lizette Delgado Polanco, CEO NJ Schools Development Authority; and Willie Mae Veasy, president, CEO Covenant Business Concepts, LLC.

Presents a

Newark Public Lecture Series

Prosperity, Spirituality & Overcoming Challenges Guest speaker

Rev. Dr. Deforest “Buster” Soaries

Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Newark Public Library 14

The Positive Community June/July 2019

L–R: Jacqueline Baptiste (AACCNJ), Leon Baptiste of LB Electric; Marjorie Perry, MZM Construction; Aisha Glover, Newark Alliance; and Ramellle Massey, Massey Insurance

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June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Health ideas for wellness

R–L Rev. Louise Rountree, director, Newark Ecumenical Clergy Alliance; Dr. Robert Johnson, Michellene Davis, Saana Kelly, Walter Douglas Stephen Ball, Wells Fargo

Dr. Johnson

Michellene Davis interviewing Dr. Johnson

Newark Public Lecture

obert L. Johnson M. D., FAAP Dean of NJ Medical School and Interim Dean, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School received a warm welcome as featured lecturer at the sixth installment of the popular Newark Public Lecture Series on May 14, 2019. These events at the Newark Public Library, presented by The Positive Community and The Newark School of Theology (NST), feature perspectives and important topics necessary for our communities to grow and prosper. The subject of Robert L. Johnson’s lecture — Health, Spirituality, and Social Impact: Health Advocacy in the 21st Century. In his address Dr. Johnson addressed health disparities in African American communities, especially among the male population, and access to quality healthcare for all. He spoke about education and the pivotal role of our faith institutions in promoting health advocacy. Michellene Davis, Esq., executive vice president & chief

corporate affairs officer, RWJ Barnabas Health joined Dr. Johnson in a “fireside chat,” a post-lecture discussion. Stephen Ball, Wells Fargo senior vice president, State and Local Government Relations, Northeast Region delivered remarks. Wells Fargo sponsors the lecture series. Walter Douglas, COO of NJ Medical School introduced the guest lecturer. Twelve-year-old Sanaa Kelly recited the “Cultural Narrative.” Reverend R. Douglass Bendall, PhD founder and president of The Newark School of Theology gave closing remarks. Special thanks to Newark Municipal Council President, Hon. Mildred C. Crump and our community partners: Wells Fargo; RWJ Barnabas Health; New York Life; Newark Ecumenical Clergy Alliance; National Association of Health Service Executives (NAHSE), NJ Chapter. See lecture and photos online: www.thepositivecommunity.com — TPC Staff Photos: Karen Waters, Raymond Hagans, Vincent Bryant

The Positive Community June/July 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Ms. Davis presenting Cultural Narrative framed poster to Dr. Johnson

Jeffrey Gyan, of Canfield Scientific, Inc.; Grace Ibitamuno, MD/PhD candidate, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Rutgers School of Public Health; Kaylyn Kendall Dines, of Marketing and Communications at Mount Sinai Health System (NYC); and Moses Salami, Marketing Communications at Holy Name Medical Center. Gyan, Kendall Dines, and Salami are members of the New Jersey chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE NJ).

Susie Sulmers-Fryer, New York Life Members of National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE, NJ Chapter)

L–R: Adrian Council, Jr., TPC; Walter Douglas; Rev. Evans Spagner, General Baptist Convention, NJ

L–R: Rev. Dr. Marilyn Harris, president, United Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ; Walter Douglas, Michellene Davis, Rev. Douglas Bendall, Newark School of Theology; Stephen Ball, in front Hon. Mildred C. Crump. www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Wells Fargo Team June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Chat and Chew with Harlem Seniors L–R: Charles W. Shorter, LMSW, executive director Ryan Health Centers/Adair and Fredrick Douglass with Ebone M. Carrington, MPA CEO/COO Harlem Hospital

ouncilman Bill Perkins in partnership with Harlem Advocates for Seniors, Inc. Central Harlem Senior Citizens Centers, Inc. hosted a Chat and Chew: A Day of Food & Fellowship with our Harlem Seniors. The day of fun took place at Howard Bennett Park on West 135th St. on May 15. Special thanks to WellCare, Community Board #10, and NYC Health+ Hospitals/Harlem.

Pillar College National Day of Prayer & Faculty Symposium Photos courtesy of Pillar College

L–R: Bishop Donald Hilliard, Cathedral International and Dr. David Schroeder, president Pillar College

L–R: Dr. David Schroeder, president Pillar College; Mildred Crump, Newark City Council president; Dr. Ralph Grant, vice president MBA Development; and Bishop Donald Hilliard, Cathedral International

of the National Day of Prayer focused on Christcentered lectures, workshops, and panel discussions on pertinent issues in academia, the church, and contemporary culture.

od, America, and Politics: Faith and Ethical Practices. Pillar College had a lively discussion amongst clergy and scholars at the Robert Treat Hotel on May 2, 2019. The college’s observance

The Positive Community June/July 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Historic Bethany Baptist Church Celebration Pastor Adolphus C. Lacy 5th Anniversary

he Reverend Adolphus C. Lacey, PhD celebrated his fifth anniversary as pastor of the historic Bethany Baptist Church in Brooklyn. Reverend David K. Brawley, pastor, St. Paul's Community Baptist Church, Brooklyn joined in fellowship for the celebration. Pastor Lacey’s fifth anniversary was celebrated in five events on five days beginning with Community Worship on May 15. The activities continued with Faith in Action, the Anniversary Gala, and Stay @ Home Tea & Prayer, culminating with two celebration worship services on Sunday, May 19. Dr. Lacey's work extends beyond the walls of the church. He serves as spiritual advisor to the NY Justice League and is a member of East Brooklyn Congregations; the National Action Network; and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Believing in the equality of gifting, Dr. Lacey affirmed the need for gender-inclusive ministries and ordained Minister Deah Harriott, the first female minister in the longstoried history of the Bethany Baptist Church. L–R: Reverend David K. Brawley and Reverend Adolphus C. Lacey

www.thepositivecommunity.com

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Newark’s 30th Annual Senior Fashion Show

ity Council President Mildred Crump, Mayor Ras Baraka, and the Newark City Council hosted the 29th Annual Senior Citizens Fashion Show and Cultural Extravaganza on May 10, 2018 in the ballroom of the Best Western Robert Treat Hotel. More than a few hundred seniors dressed in their Sunday best fashions filled the room. The free luncheon event brought together seniors from every corner of the city. The event is one which draws in members of the city government including members of the city council and fire and police departments, who enjoy showing off on the runway to the delight of appreciative seniors.

L–R: Newark Council President Mildred Crump, Honoree Gladys Cartagena Eskridge, Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, Deputy Chief Derrell Elliott, and Rev. Louise Rountree

Newark Council members, L–R: Anibal Ramos, Eddie Osborne, Luis Katana, Monica McIver, Council President Mildred Crump, and NJ First Lady Tammy Murphy

The Positive Community June/July 2019

L–R: Irene Daniel, Rev. Ralph Grant, and Rev. Louise Rountree www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

United HealthCare Staff

L–R: Mayor Ras Baraka, Council President Mildred Crump with former Councilman Rev. Ralph Grant of Pillar College

New Jersey residents, learn how you can get

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10/17/18 12:49 PM

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

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

Instructed and Inspired to Live Well

here is nothing more powerful than the voice of a father. It’s powerful because it is the father’s voice that gives instruction and correction to the children within his sphere of influence. Instruction is defined as to give a direction or order. Most men are great at giving orders and direction. Especially when we (men) truly believe the directive or instruction is helpful or solves a problem in the lives of people we love. A responsible father who desires to protect and raise his children—whether he is with their mother or not— should use his powerful, yet loving, voice as a tool to give instruction. Yet this same voice must decrease at times to receive instruction, instruction that might just save our lives. This is a problem for many men. Most men find it difficult to receive and follow instructions given by an authoritative figure. Perhaps the lack of following instructions is the reason for health disparities in men, especially black men. • Black men live 7.1 years less than other racial groups. • They have higher death rates than women for all leading causes of death. • They experience disproportionately higher death rates in all the leading causes of death. • 40% of black men die prematurely from cardiovascular disease as compared to 21% of white men. With such staggering statistics, one would think black and brown men would be open to the wise counsel and directives offered by our pastors, physicians, and other health care professionals such as fitness trainers and health coaches. The question must be asked, why do we often disregard directives such as eat healthy, exercise consistently, and make regular visits to your physician? Perhaps we have stopped listening because listening that is restorative requires that we listen with our hearts. James E. Miller says listening with your heart invites you to stay open to another, even if their feelings are much

22 The Positive Community

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different from yours, and even if the expression of those feelings is stronger than you think. In other words, we can receive instruction from others even if we do not like or agree with the instruction given. Someone once said, “Instruction should inspire!” Perhaps it is difficult for most men to follow instruction because some view instruction negatively. When receiving instruction, let us look to use that instruction as a means or way to help us live well, live whole, and live free. So, the next time your physician offers instruction and direction to losing weight and eating healthier. Receive the instruction and be inspired to create a healthier you. Do it for the ones you care about, especially your children. Give that belated Father’s Day gift to yourself and keep giving it all year long. Your body and loved ones will thank you for it. 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 www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Two Events That Changed Brooklyn and Impacted the World

Wiki Commons

There were two major events that helped change the face of Brooklyn and beyond: police killings and the Atlantic Yards project. Randy Evans/Arthur Miller

n November 1976, a 15-year-old black youth was shot and killed by a white NYPD officer. The following year, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. The community was furious and demanded action. Four men had been meeting for months, trying to understand why Brooklyn—with its huge, diverse population of people of African Ancestry—was so powerless. The four men, former Assemblyman Al Vann; the late Dr. Sam Penn; Mr. Jitu Weusi, also deceased; and I provided leadership under the banner of Concerned Leaders and Citizens to Save Our Youth. In December, we called for a citywide economic boycott—Black Christmas ’77.

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June/July 2019 June/July 2019

By Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry Founding Chair Downtown Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance

There were three targets: the business community, the courts, and city government. We had three objectives: perpetuating the memory of Randy Evans, creating a movement, and empowering black people. After almost a year of boycotting, the business community agreed to ten demands which included the Randolph Evans Crisis Fund and the Randolph Evans Scholarship Fund. They agreed to fund a scholarship of $1,500 for ten college bound students for five years. After that, we continued the program with a ceremony each year. Saturday June 22, 2019, we celebrated 40 years of continuous Scholarship Awards Ceremonies. Significantly, we achieved our objectives. From the deaths of Randy Evans and Arthur Miller (who was killed by a choke-hold on June 14, 1978), we created a movement that did empower the people. Also, organizations emanated from the energy of the movement. New York City Black United Front (July 1978), Black Veterans for Social Justice (1979), National Black United Front (1980), African-American Clergy and Elected Officials (1989)—which helped to elect David Dinkins, NYC’s first black mayor). In September 1983, Rev. Jesse Jackson met with black leaders of New York at the House of the Lord Church to help him decide if he would run for the presidency of the U.S.A. And many other organizations were created, and existing organizations were enhanced. In addition, the political landscape changed as black people were elected to office. Today, there are two Congress members, Hakeem Jefferies and Yvette Clarke; Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams; N.Y.S. Attorney General Letitia James; N.Y.C. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams; Assemblyman Charles Barron (who was my chief-of-staff in the 1980s); and many other elected officials. Atlantic Yard Project

n June 2005, a group of organizations signed the Atlantic Yards Community Benefit Agreement (C.B.A.) with Forest City Ratner Companies. A C.B.A. is an agreement entered into by community leaders with developers who propose developments in their communities. In our particular case, each signatory carved out the area of their concerns and made demands i.e. jobs, construction, businesses, affordable housing, etc. The following is what we (the Downtown Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance) negotiated: www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Health and Wellness Center: Our research indicated Health research that in theand FortWellness Greene, Center: BrooklynOur area, which isindicated contiguthat to in the the proposed Fort Greene, Brooklyn area, which is contiguous development site, the infant mortalousrate to the development site, the infant mortality wasproposed comparable to some underdeveloped counity rate wastherefore, comparable to some aunderdeveloped countries. We, negotiated state-of-the-art health tries. We, health facility. Wetherefore, officially negotiated opened thea state-of-the-art Health and Wellness facility. We opened the andMethodist Wellness Center. Newofficially York Presbyterian andHealth Brooklyn Center. New York Presbyterian and Brooklyn Methodist are the providers. are the providers. Arena-related Programming Arena-related Programming • Tickets Program: Our package included 50 upper

There are three projects which still need to be fulfilled. There are three projectsInitiative: which still need to be 1. Intergenerational consisting of fulfilled. daycare

1. Intergenerational consisting of indaycare for children, youth,Initiative: and senior citizens, all an adfor children, youth, and senior citizens, all in an adjoining complex. joining complex. 2. Gallery: We negotiated a gallery to house the histo2. Gallery: negotiated a gallery to house thearea history of theWe CBA, along with the history of the of ry of the CBA, along with the history of the area of Downtown Brooklyn, which was a hotbed of aboliDowntown Brooklyn, which was a hotbed of abolitionist activity. tionist activity. 3. Open Spaces: We were concerned about the aes3. Open We wereYards concerned the aesthetics Spaces: of the Atlantic Project about and surroundthetics of the Atlantic Yards Project and surrounding areas. So, we negotiated our participation in the ing areas. So,beautification we negotiatedofour in the upkeep and theparticipation area. upkeep and beautification of the area. It is mind-blogging to contemplate how far-reaching is mind-blogging contemplate how far-reaching theItimpact of these two to events, Randy Evans/Arthur Millthe impact of these two events, Randy Evans/Arthur Miller and the Atlantic Yards Project have made on the world, er and the Atlantic Yards Project have made on the world, especially Brooklyn. In the 1960s, Dr. William Jones was especially In the 1960s, was chairman, Brooklyn. I was executive vice chair,Dr. andWilliam Rev. Al Jones Sharpton chairman, I was executive vice chair, and Rev. Al Sharpton was youth leader. For historic continuity, it is important was youththe leader. For historic continuity, it isI important to note, successful negotiations (which led) were to note, the successful negotiations (which I led)arm were learned in Operation Breadbasket—the economic of learned in Operation Breadbasket—the economic arm of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Southern Christian LeaderDr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference. ship Conference.

Photo Photo by Cindy by Cindy Similien-Johnson Similien-Johnson

• bowl Tickets Program: Ourbowl package included upper tickets, 4 lower tickets, and a 50 suite for bowl tickets, lowerand bowl tickets, a Barclay’s suite for practically all 4 games events heldand in the practically all games and events held in the Barclay’s Center. Center. • Events Program: The developers agreed that the • community Events Program: The the developers that at thea can secure arena foragreed ten events community the arena tencommunity. events at a reduced ratecan withsecure all profits going for to the reduced rate with all profits going to the community. • Meditation Room: We made the unusual request for • aMeditation Room: the unusual request for meditation roomWe in made the arena as a symbol. I am a meditation in the arena as acountry symbol.with I ama told that it is room the only arena in the told that it room. is the only arena in the country with a meditation meditation room. We negotiated funds for a community foundation, We would negotiated funds a community foundation, which provide grantfor money to organizations workwhich would provide grant money to organizations work-

ing with the neediest in our community. This is our fourth ing the neediest in our community. This is our fourth yearwith in operation. year in operation.

L–R: Greenland USA Vice President, Scott Solish; NY Presbyterian Hospital SVP, Joseph Ienuso; DBNA Associate Director, L–R: Greenland President, Solish; NY Presbyterian Hospital SVP, Joseph Ienuso;Daughtry; DBNA Associate Director, Chyann Starks; USA Exec.Vice Director DBNA,Scott Sharon Daughtry; Founding Chair DBNA Rev. Dr. Herbert Rev. Dr. Karen S. Chyann Starks; Exec.NY Director DBNA,Brooklyn Sharon Daughtry; DBNA Rev. Dr.COO, Herbert Rev.Alan Dr. Karen S. Daughtry; President Presbyterian MethodistFounding Hospital,Chair Robert Guimento; NY Daughtry; Presbyterian, Lee and Daughtry; President NY Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Robert Guimento; COO, NY Presbyterian, Alan Lee and Lorenzo Daughtry-Chambers. Lorenzo Daughtry-Chambers. www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

June/July 2019 The Positive Community June/July June/July 2019 2019 The The Positive Positive Community Community

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From The Pen of Bishop-Elect Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood To Whom It May Concern,

his announcement is made rooted in eight (8) years of research along with conversation, after conversation, after conversation, with clergy respected and revered. I am sure that more than I have recognized an almost mad-rush to the biblical office of Bishop. I preached on Sunday at 6am, June 23rd, my birthday and the day of my 2nd Ordination; Acts 2 verse 12. My heart’s query was that of the crowd-what does all this mean? With no harm intended, wherever I looked, turned or traveled; there was a Bishop here, a Bishop there and all of a sudden Bishops everywhere! What does all this mean?

I have learned through the years, that obedience is better than sacrifice; that tribulation works patience; and that waiting on The Lord for direction is the way to go. So, in January 2019, a commitment was made to study and be tutored around this Sacred Office of Bishop. A prominent pastor spent time with me, opening my eyes via questions about my already historic ministry; questions about my style and thought processes and questions about the demands that would be placed upon me, were I to submit to what he called this “Elevation” to office. For several months we worked together, and I got good traction on walking this path of service (The New Testament Bishopric). In due time I made the choice of my Chief Consecrator, met with him, and was deluged with information and inspiration. The Right Reverend Bishop Emilio Alvarez, PH.D. is my choice. Reverend Dr. Emilio Alvarez Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese of Christ the King in the Union of Charismatic Orthodox Churches. So far it has been an adventurous walk. I ask for your prayers that the abiding presence of the Holy Ghost will be manifested in my promotion to greater service.

Kevin Parker NYS Senate

21st Senate District Congratulations to U.S. Representative and Democratic Caucus Chair Congressman Hakeem Jeffries. Your leadership on economic and social justice issues on behalf of communities of color is admirable, and your ascension as the Caucus Chair is more than deserving of this honor. PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF KEVIN PARKER

www.thepositivecommunity.com

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

A KNOCK DOWN IS DIFFERENT FROM A

“A

knock down is different from a knock out.” So goes the Hakeem Jeffries remix version of a Winston Churchill quote which says: “Success is not final and failure is not fatal. All that matters is the courage to continue.” For Congressman Jeffries, the fifth highest ranking Democratic in United States House of Representatives, this is his go-to expression when the sweat of politics or life in general furrows his brow. Undoubtedly, the Brooklyn Congressman knows a thing or two about knock downs. As a young lawyer, he twice ran for a seat in the NYS Assembly and lost. “Those were difficult moments,” he says. “But then I realized that in any field of endeavor the people who achieved the highest degree of success have had moments of challenge. Those who achieve are the ones who persevere toward their goal, recognizing that though they may have been knocked to the ground, they needed to get up and keep moving toward the finish line.” Subsequently, Jeffries won an Assembly seat and served there for six years representing the 57th District. In 2013, he handily won the mandate as the representative of the 8th Congressional

KNOCK OUT By Glenda Cadogan

District, serving Brooklyn and parts of Queens—considered one of the most diverse districts in the nation. Once in Washington, Jeffries’ rise was nothing short of meteoric. He evolved into a prolific legislator, a passionate people’s advocate, and a skillful negotiator all rolled into one while serving on hard-hitting committees like House Judiciary and Budget. His election by his peers as chairman of the House Democratic Caucus in 2018 put him in position to possibly become the next Speaker of the House. The accolades began rolling in; his face time in the national media increased and some began referring to him as “the Barack Obama of Brooklyn” and “the changing face of Washington.” But Jeffries’ self-description is a bit more modest and pointed. “As a public servant I have endeavored to work hard on behalf of the communities I am privileged to represent,” he says, adding, “I am thoughtful in my approach and determined to get things done in a manner that improves the quality of lives for my constituents. In that sense I would simply say I’m hardworking, thoughtful, and determined.” Growing up in a union household in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, Jeffries and his younger brother were raised in Cornerstone Baptist Church, located a short ride cont’d on next page

www.thepositivecommunity.com The Positive Community June/July 2019

Wikepedia Commons

Congressman Hakeem Jeffries Chair of the Democratic Caucus

June/July 2019 The Positive Community 27 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Hakeem Jef fries cont’d from previous page

Bob Gore

away in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of the borough. “The rhythm of Central Brooklyn is an important part of the person I have grown into today. My coming of age followed a parallel track with the rise and influence of hip-hop in the 80s and its maturation into the 90s,” he explained. “Growing up in a community-centered institution like Cornerstone—where I am still a member—is an incredibly critical foundation in my life. The Black Church is important to the journey of African Americans in this country and it played a similar role in my growth and development.” So in Jeffries’ world, the seeming dichotomy of church and hip-hop was nonexistent. Not surprising then that as a noted orator, the Congressman can likely recite a verse from Thantopisi and in the next breath bust a rhyme from The Notorious B.I.G. It is this colorful tapestry of history that gives the Brooklyn Congressman an enlivening brand of sensitivity as a politician and informs his impassioned work in areas like Criminal Justice Reform. Jeffries was the lead sponsor on the cutting edge legislation in the last Congress

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June/July 2019 June/July 2019

that gave rise to the signing into law of the FIRST STEP Act. Under this law, $375 million was allocated over five years to help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully transition back into society. It includes assistance in job training, education, vocational services, substance abuse treatment, and mental health counseling necessary to gain the skills to reenter and become productive members of their communities. The legislation has been called “the most meaningful criminal justice reform effort in a generation.” According to Jeffries, he is delighted the bill “rolls back some of the draconian, so-called ‘tough-on-crime’ measures passed during the failed war on drugs. FIRST STEP has already resulted in more than 1,000 people released from prison, the overwhelming majority of whom are from the African and Caribbean American communities,” Jeffries said with pride. “Finally some measure of justice.” In his formative years, Jeffries was a product of Brooklyn Montessori School in Park Slope, which was a haven for working class families. He later attended Midwood High School in Flatbush. One word made the difference in what could have been the story of Hakeem Jefferies, M.D. as opposed to Hakeem Jeffries, J.D. “On my way into Midwood I explored the possibility of pursuing a career in medicine,” he recalled. “On my way out of Midwood I realized this was unlikely because of this one word: physics. So, I shifted my focus to subjects where I excelled the most like American History. After graduating Law School, Jeffries enjoyed a prolific legal career before throwing his hat in the political ring. On any given day, the Congressman can be found hard at work fighting against the current administration’s policies—foreign and domestic—he sees as not good for our country and protecting our civil liberties. But, there are days when he is happy to put down the political football for a baseball and have fun. “I find great joy in participating in the annual charitable congressional baseball game between Democrats and Republicans,” he said. “What I enjoy most are the weeks of practice leading up to the game. We are out on the field at 7:00 in the morning and there is such incredible camaraderie. It’s not that I am claiming credit, but I am pleased that for the six years I’ve been participating, the Dems won five times,” he quipped. Married and the father of two teenage boys, Jeffries also enjoys regular family outings to the movies. The genre of choice… you guessed it, superheroes. So a word of advice to anyone journeying to Nationals Park to witness this year’s Dems vs. Republicans baseball game: if you see a player in left field get knocked down while on a run for a ball, know if his name is Hakeem Jeffries, he is by no means knocked out. www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Photos: Bruce Moore

L–R: Rev. Reginald Bacchus; Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry; Minister Damarys Butler; Watchful Eye Founder Divinah “Dee” Bailey; and Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman, president AACEO

L–R: Rev. Dr. Herbert D. Daughtry, Sr. and Rev. Dr. Allen K. Hand, Sr., pastor, Trinity Community Missionary B.C.

Clergy and Elected Officials Meet at Antioch B.C.

he African American Clergy and Elected Officials Organization is the sole organization in the state of New York where pastors, priests, ministers, elected officials and community stakeholders meet monthly to exchange information on community issues on all levels of government.

Founded in 1989 with its mission for Clergy and Elected Officials to serve, strengthen and empower the parishioners and constituents of Brooklyn, through advocacy and participation in areas that we determine that social and economic injustice exists.

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638 Macon Street, 3rd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11233 Tel: 212-736-0404 / 917-620-1311 Email: barfieldmedia@gmail.com www.barfieldny.com

, President & CEO E 30 The Positive Community

June/July 2019

Tel: 212-736-0404 / 917-620-1311 Email: barfieldmedia@gmail.com www.barfieldny.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Executive Board Executive Board

Executive Board

Reverend Dr. Robert M. Waterman Reverend Dr. Robert M. Waterman President Reverend Dr. Robert M. Waterman President President Latrice Walker Assemblywoman

Latrice Walker ViceAssemblywoman President Assemblywoman Latrice Walker Vice President Vice President U.S. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

ViceU.S. President Congressman Hakeem Jeffries U.S. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries Vice President Vice“Dee” President Divinah Bailey Chief Operating Officer Divinah “Dee” Bailey Divinah “Dee” Bailey Chief Operating Officer Officer Chief Operating Assemblyman Walter T. Mosley Public Policy/Communications Assemblyman WalterT.T.Mosley Mosley Assemblyman Walter Director Public Policy/Communications Public Policy/Communications Director Bishop Ismael Claudio, Chair Director Faith Leaders Programming Bishop Claudio,Chair Chair BishopIsmael Ismael Claudio, Reverend Gwen Dingle, Co-Chair Faith Programming FaithLeaders Leaders Programming Faith Leaders Programming

Reverend Gwen Gwen Dingle, Reverend Dingle,Co-Chair Co-Chair Honorable Robin K. Sheares FaithLeaders Leaders Programming Faith Programming Parliamentarian Honorable Robin Robin K. Honorable K.Sheares Sheares Reverend Dr. Gwendolyn Hadley-Hall Parliamentarian Parliamentarian Secretary

June 2019

June 2019 In Tribute to My Congressman Hakeem Jeffries:

In Tribute to My Congressman Hakeem Jeffries:

In Tribute to My Congressman Hakeem Jeffries: It is with great pride and appreciation that we pause to pay tribute to It is withHakeem great pride andOur appreciation thatFriend. we pause to pay Congressman Jeffries. Leader and He, who hastribute to It is with great pride and appreciation that we pause to pay tribute to Congressman Jeffries. andhisFriend. He, who has always taken time toHakeem listen and addressOur theLeader needs of community. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries. Our Leader and Friend. He, who has Throughout political he and has been a constant leader on the always his taken time career, to listen address the needs of his community. always taken time to listen and address the needs of his community. frontline. No issue his too small to becareer, addressed with been skill and expertise.leader For Throughout political has a constant Throughout his political career, he hashebeen a constant leader on the on the this and more. We say: frontline. too small be addressed with and expertise. For frontline. No No issueissue too small to be to addressed with skill andskill expertise. For more. thisthis andand more. We We say: say: THANK YOU. BE BLESSED MY LEADER!

THANK YOU. BE BLESSED MY LEADER! THANK YOU. BE BLESSED MY LEADER! Moses said to the Lord, “May the Lord, the God who gives breath to all living things, appoint someone over this community to go out and come in before them, one willLord, lead out them in,who sobreath the Lord’s Moses said to Lord, the “May theand Lord, thewho God gives Moses said to who the “Maythem the Lord, thebring God gives tobreath all to all people will not be likeover sheep without a shepherd.” living things, appoint someone this community to go outtoand in come in living things, appoint someone over this community go come out and before them, one one whowho will lead andout bring so thein,Lord’s before them, will them lead out them andthem bringin,them so the Lord’s Numbers 27:15-17 people will will not benot like without a shepherd.” people besheep like sheep without a shepherd.” Numbers 27:15-1727:15-17 Numbers

Reverend Dr. Dr. Gwendolyn Reverend GwendolynHadley-Hall Hadley-Hall Dee Bailey, Pastor Vivian Donaldson Secretary Secretary Treasurer Pastor Vivian Donaldson Founders Pastor Vivian Donaldson Treasurer Rev.Treasurer Dr. Herbert Daughtry Rev. Dr. Gardner C. Taylor Founders Honorable Annette Robinson Founders Rev. Dr.AlHerbert Honorable Vann Daughtry Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Herbert Gardner Daughtry C. Taylor Rev. Dr. Gardner C.Robinson Taylor Honorable Annette Honorable Honorable Annette Al Vann Robinson

Honorable Al Vann

Dee Bailey,

Chief of Operations

IMPACTFUL LEADER RESOLUTE ADVOCATEÂ GALVANIZING COMMUNITY SERVANT

CONGRESSMAN HAKEEM JEFFRIES

As the New

Negations & Financial Specialist

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Education the art + science of learning

Rev. Dr. LaKeesha Walrond Leads New York Theological Seminary into a New Era

ccolades poured in upon the announcement by the New York Theological Seminary (NYTS) Board of Trustees that Rev. Dr. LaKeesha Walrond had been appointed as its new president. The appointment marks an historic milestone for the 119-year-old institution as Dr. Walrond is its first African American female president. Her appointment marks a new era for the Seminary’s increasingly diverse and multi-faith community. Dr. Walrond’s more than two decades of leadership in academia and ministry will help shape new and distinctive programming to enhance the Seminary’s reputation. Attributes that distinguish the Seminary are its emphasis on ministry and mission, its openness to both women and men, and its diversity of denominational and cultural traditions represented in its student body and alumni. Walrond is mindful of the institution’s tradition and is looking forward to leading it into a new era. “As I assume the presidency, I think about becoming the first female and the first African American female, and the great responsibility that accompanies this historic moment. My hope is to work collaboratively with the faculty, staff, students, and board members to make NYTS a world renowned theological institution for preparing students for urban ministry,” Walrond said. “The former administrations set a bar I will strive each day to surpass, as I challenge myself and the NYTS community to make this historic and revered Seminary greater and grander.” “NYTS is truly blessed to have found such a dynamic and well-prepared leader,” said NYTS Presidential Search Committee Chair and Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees Jeffrey C. Slade, M. Div., J.D. “I have no doubt she will lead the school to new heights and great success.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

NYTS Board of Trustees Chair Rev. Dr. Lawrence Hammond added, “Dr. Walrond is truly the one that God has sent in this ‘Kairos Moment’ to lead our institution to its next level of academic excellence based on a solid foundation of vision and faith. We are extremely excited to have her join us in our ongoing pursuit of making NYTS a leader in theological education within the urban context.” “I have watched Dr. Walrond evolve in her ministry for decades,” said Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, senior pastor of the historic Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon and chairman of Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC). “We in the faith community are inspired by her unparalleled devotion to ministry and advocacy!” Dr. Walrond served as executive pastor of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, New York and held senior leadership roles at Zion Temple Church in North Carolina and Lakewood Elementary School in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Walrond earned her Ph.D. in Special Education and Literacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds a Master of School Administration, a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Master of Divinity, and an undergraduate degree from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. She has authored two books, and enjoys time with her husband, Michael Walrond, Jr., and two children. Dr. Walrond said she was proud “to have the opportunity to show all women that there are still many opportunities to be ‘the first,’” and she hopes her presidency can serve “as an example of what intelligence, discipline, and determination can bring.” June/July 2019 The Positive Community

"Public

Ways to Prevent Summer Learning Loss for Elementary Students UNITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

BY KAREN ALFORD

uring the usual two to three month summer vacation for most students, summer learning loss, also known as “summer slide,” can occur. Summer slide refers to the academic ground students lose over the course of the summer, particularly regarding reading and math skills. It’s not a given though; there are things we can do to diminish the impact of the summer slide on our children. We know education doesn’t have to take place in the classroom. We can use our homes, neighborhoods, and communities as vehicles for learning, doing, and growing. There are many free and low-cost ways to keep children active, engaged, and learning to prevent summer slide. Parents and guardians are their children’s first teachers, so they know how to do this. The goal is to make sure your children read, do math, make art, and enjoy music so when they reenter the classroom, they can pick up where they left off. Starting at home, that can mean helping an adult cook, with your child doing the measuring and reading the recipe. That’s math and reading, and the best part is you can have fun together and get to eat whatever you’ve made! It’s a way to introduce new foods and expand your child’s palate. Our children will not be young forever, so really honoring the time we have with them as parents is important. Put down your cell phone, make time to just cuddle and read – and you can do that with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders just as well as you can with your pre-K kid. That lets your children know that they’re safe and they matter. There’s no substitute for when parents read with their kids, and kids read to their parents – it instills a sense of pride. Educators suggest parents have books on tables and floors, so children can access them and “read, read, read!” Other recommendations include daily reading and playing number,

The Positive Community June/July 2019

word, sight, and alphabet games. One teacher advises starting with just 10 minutes of reading each day, slowly increasing to 20minutes and discussing with your child what they’re reading, who the main character is, how the character solved a problem, and how the story ended. Lessons can be informal, try having children read street signs, subway stops, and posters. A science lesson can be as simple and rewarding as planting a seed and having children draw pictures of the transformation from seed to plant to vegetable, keeping track of how many days it took for their beans or seeds to sprout. Be sure to save time for journaling; a regular composition notebook your child can decorate with favorite characters might inspire them to write. Kids can keep a record of what they are thinking, dreaming about, or doing. Their journals can include mementos of places they’ve been and poetry about the sights and sounds of summer. These notebooks are also the places your budding artist can capture visual memories and sketches. For real-world math, let your child practice purchasing items and asking how much change back he or she will get. For math fluency, make flash cards with basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division exercises, or downloading free flashcards at www.factmonster.com/math/ flashcards for drills. We are fortunate to live in a world-class city filled with museums and educational institutions, many of which are free for children or free certain times and days of the week. Make sure to use all of the resources in our communities. That includes taking advantage of your local public library or main branch library, a source for great books (and air conditioning) and a place for read alouds and other activities for young learners. Both the Brooklyn Museum and the Metropolitan Museum have suggested admission

rates for New York residents, which means pay what you wish. The Queens Museum is free for children 18 and younger and the list goes on. Visit mommypoppins.com/ny-kids/free-timesat-nyc-museums for a full listing of all the free cultural institutions. Bring along a notepad and pencils for your children to draw the artworks that inspire them and let them choose the art they like best. Encourage them to make up a story to go with the art and draw it. Summer is a great time for music and movement activities. There are also free music events over the summer – visit mommypoppins.com/new-york-city-kids/ free-activities/free-outdoor-concertsfor-families-this-summer-in-nyc for some, or you can just turn on the radio and make your own Zumba class or do your own two-step together! Remember to send kids outside to play with their peers. They’ll be more fit if they’ve been outside running around playing tag, “red light, green light 123,” and creating their own games. We don’t want children in front of a screen too much, but there are some excellent educational games, so when you do permit screen time, check out the resources at www. verywellfamily.com/best-free-educational-websites-for-kids-3129084. Working full time? It may not be too late to enroll your child in a free summer instructional program provided by the New York City Department of Education, with free meals and field trips. Talk to your school principal or parent coordinator and visit www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-in-summer-school/summer-academy for more information. Summer is meant to be a time to rest and renew and we want kids to do that! Just make sure your kids stay sharp in their skills in some way each day. While slowing down and enjoying the warm summer months is important, children can still walk into school prepared for September. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Drexel University Dr. Samuel Cook Hometown: New York City Degree: Doctor of Medicine (MD)

�oora� for the

Graduates!

Accomplishments: Graduated from Johns Hopkins in 2014, and on May 17, 2019 received a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Drexel University.

Seated & Center: Ronald Cook; former United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom under President Barack Obama Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook (AKA Sujay); and their children (l) Christopher and (r) Dr. Samuel

Career path: He began a residency at Hofstra/Northwell Hospital Center on July 1, 2019 and wants to specialize in Oncology surgery. Today there are just three black doctors in the U.S. who perform this surgery. Christopher Cook graduated from Princeton in 2017 and now works as marketing director for Hotel Connections.

Metropolitan College of New York Thomas Brian Lee Hometown: New York City Degree: Master’s in Education Accomplishments: WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR CAN MAKE. Thomas left behind a lucrative career in corporate business to find his purpose. With an accelerated degree from Metropolitan College of New York, he was able to earn a Master’s in Education in just one year. Now, as a teacher, Thomas is helping to shape the lives of firstgraders in the South Bronx. Get started on YOUR path to becoming a leader in education. The Master’s of Science in Education: Dual Childhood 1-6/Special Education offers the TOC II Scholarship benefits, with the TEACH Grant and the Presidential Scholarship for up to $15,500 in total tuition assistance for those who qualify.

Montclair State University Kaylah Nash Hometown: Montclair, NJ Degree: Bachelor of Arts Major: Theater Studies focus in Screenwriting and Directing Accomplishment: Co-directed the play Fefu and Her Friends Career goal: "I want to write and direct plays and films focusing on black and brown life from the perspective of my peers that don’t only speak about our oppression." www.thepositivecommunity.com

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Why CSE? •

Student to faculty undergraduate ratio: 13:1

•

One-on-one attention

•

Close knit community

•

12 NCAA DIII teams

•

STEM programs

•

Financial aid

•

One of US News & World Report’s “Best Ethnic Diversity” colleges

For more information:

Visit us online: www.cse.edu Call us: 973-290-4413 Email us: apply@cse.edu

The Talent Pipeline for Your Business Starts with Berkeley College Since 1931, professional organizations of all types have depended on Berkeley College graduates and interns to strengthen their teams. Today, that tradition is stronger than ever. In addition to our exceptional Career Services department, Berkeley offers an M.B.A. in Management and a Corporate Learning Partnership program that benefits companies and employees. We’re confident you’ll recognize the rigor and real-world practicality of our programs, and the readiness of our students and graduates.

For more information, contact Marc Thompson, Associate Director, Business Development at MT@BerkeleyCollege.edu or 973-278-5400 ext. 4168

Find us @BerkeleyCollege and #BerkeleyCollege

Berkeley College reserves the right to add, discontinue, or modify its programs and policies at any time. Modifications subsequent to the original publication of this document may not be reflected here. For up-to-date and detailed information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu and view our catalogs at BerkeleyCollege.edu/Publications. For more information about Berkeley College graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed programs, and other important disclosures, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu/disclosures.

BerkeleyCollege.edu

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Uncommon Preparatory Charter High School Nicole Jones Hometown: Brooklyn, NY College she will attend: Vassar College Major: History Accomplishments: Questbridge Scholar. Interesting fact: Will be the first in her family to complete a college degree. “I always knew I wanted to go to college. When I was a kid, I always had these dreams of different careers in mind – doctor, lawyer – and my mom always told me I had to go to college for that, and coming to Uncommon was the best decision.”

Medgar Evers College 2019 Commencement Scholars Medgar Evers College’s 48th commencement June 5, 2019 at Barclays Center

Luan Emilaire Hometown: New York City (Emigrated from Saint Lucia) Degree: Bachelor of Science Major: Accounting

Dawnnel Northe Hometown: New York City Degree: Bachelor of Science Major: Social and Behavior Science

Accomplishments: 2019 MRC Valedictorian. Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society, National Association of Black Accountants, The National Society of Leadership and Success, and a volunteer with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs. She has made the President’s List and the Dean’s List three years in a row, and she currently works as an assistant manager at an orthopedics medical practice in Manhattan.

Accomplishments: Associate Degree Scholar (Liberal Arts). A first-generation college student, Dawnnel attended school full-time while tutoring middle school students. She consistently made Dean’s List, successfully completed the CUNY Service Corps program, and worked with the Adult Learning Program at City Tech. Northe currently works for Community Counseling and Mediation as an afterschool instructor at Boerum Hill for International Studies, teaching voice and creative writing to middle school students, and intends to pursue her PhD.

Career goal: Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Career goal: Elementary School Teacher

www.thepositivecommunity.com

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

�oora�

Essex County College

Graduates! for the

Pyetra Camargo Hometown: Newark

Sena Dzirasa Hometown: East Orange

Major: Political Science Degree: Associate in Science in Criminal Justice

Major: Mathematics Degree: Associate in Science

Accomplishments: Valedictorian for the Class of 2019 with a 4.0 grade point average. While in Essex County College, she was named to the All-USA New Jersey Community College Academic First Team and was one of ECC’s Voices of Opportunity in the New Jersey Council of County College’s 2018 Ambassador Program.

Accomplishments: Class of 2019 Salutatorian, graduating with a 4.0 grade point average. She was vice president of the College’s Society of Women Engineers Club, vice president of Hallmarks in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and headed the Math Club Tutorial Services.

Career goal: Master’s in Public Administration and then apply for law school with her career goal of becoming an attorney.

Career goal: Transferring to Rutgers University-New Brunswick where she will major in Mathematics and minor in Economics. She also plans to earn advanced degrees in finance and computer science, with a career goal of becoming a financial analyst.

William Paterson University Tanaija L. Abram Hometown: Newark, NJ Major: Communication (Broadcast Journalism) Degree: Bachelor of Arts Accomplishments: Working full time for the Essex County Register while attending school full time and on the Dean's List with all A’s. Career Plan: To work for one of the top radio stations in the tri-state area as a radio producer/radio personality. “I thank my Lord, family, and friends for their support and every day motivation to get my degree.”

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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�oora�

College of St. Elizabeth Theresa Marie Lewis Hometown: Staten Island, New York Degree: Master of Arts Major: Counseling Psychology with a Concentration/Speciality in Mental Health Counseling

Keynote speaker, David Clowney, IV. '11, a retired wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL) stands proud with Theresa Marie Lewis and her two children, Christian Lewis, 5, and Malachi Lewis, 3

Accomplishments: Honors graduate. Certified Sexual Assault Advocate for Morris Cares in New Jersey, PSI CHI International Honor Society member, former president of CSE Chpt of Psi Chi (2018), former editorin-chief of CSE Journal of Behavior Science (2018), trainer of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and Behavioral Modifications for individuals with Austim Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (ID/DD

for the

Graduates!

Career goal: Licensed Professional Counselor "Life grants us teachable moments that if applied correctly, we will learn a lesson that will never be forgotten. During those teachable moments people may say 'when there's a will there's a way'. In times of resiliency I will always say, 'when there's a way, Theresa will find it'. #BeBrave #BeEnough #behumble #BeTheresa.

Berkeley College Edwin Fleurant Hometown: Brooklyn, NY Major: Internet Technology Management Degree: Bachelor of Science Accomplishments: Interned at Marvel Studios in Greenpoint, Brooklyn; has received job offers from New York University and the National Security Agency; serves in the U.S. Army Reserves. Career Plan: Help the nation’s cybersecurity and help youth in information technology and business.

Berkeley College graduation was held at the Prudential Center on May 10, 2019

“The important lessons I’ve learned are that I’m more than I think I am and to take every failure as an opportunity to grow myself and develop.”

2,200 students were awarded diplomas

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June/July 2019 The Positive Community

NYSCAS of Touro College

�oora�

Gerard Placide Hometown: Originally from Trinidad and Tobago Degree: Associate's Degree Major: Liberal Arts

for the

Graduates!

He will attend Baruch College in September to earn a BA in Public Policy. Accomplishments: Gerard is an award-winning gospel singer, and a U.S. Army veteran. The G.I. Bill gave him the opportunity to go to college. While he’s hesitant to discuss the specifics of his experiences in the military, which he admits were extremely difficult, he does credit them for giving him the courage to be bold. Gerard is currently employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs in a work/study program. At Touro he found a community of support. He recalls that Marina Meshman helped him improve his English. Dean Timothy Taylor and Lorinda Moore “took special care of me.” Ira Weinstock “opened up my appetite to learning about government.” William Lewis “built me from the ground up in terms of writing.” And Guiseppe Infante “is like a big brother to me.” Career goal: Advocate for veterans and immigrants.

General Baptist Convention of New Jersey Photos: Vincent Bryant

eneral Baptist Convention of New Jersey (GBCNJ) held their Semi-Annual Session at New Zion BC in Elizabeth, NJ where Rev. Kevin White is host pastor. Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, senior pastor of Enon Tabernacle in Philadelphia, the largest congregation in the city, delivered the keynote sermon on The Code of the Righteous Warrior: 10 Laws of Moral Manhood for an Uncertain World, which is also the title of his newly published book.

L–R:‑ Rev. George Blackwell, pastor Good Neighbor BC, Newark; Rev. Jerry Sanders, Fountain BC, Sumit NJ; Dr. Waller; and Dr. Lester Taylor, Jr. pastor Community BC, Englewood, NJ and president GBCNJ.

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Saunders Joins Parole Board Photo: Karen Waters

L-R: Hon. Lorraine Pullen, retired Middlesex County Superior Court Judge; Rev. Kenneth L. Saunders, Sr.; his son, Kenneth L. Saunders, Jr., and his wife Shirley; Sheriff Mildred Scott, Middlesex County; and Mayor Brian C. Wahler, Piscataway Township. Well-wishers observe in rear.

riends and family gathered on Sunday, May 26, 2019 to witness the swearing in of Rev. Kenneth L. Saunders as a member of the New Jersey State Parole Board. Saunders is the retired pastor of North Stelton AME Church in Piscataway, NJ. All screenings at the Newark Museum unless otherwise noted. SCREENINGS

YOUTH CINEMA

Wednesdays

Mondays, 10:30 am July 8, 15, 22, 29 The Newark Public Library

2 0 19

June 26, 5 pm OPENING RECEPTION (with pop-up roller rink) RSVP@newarkmuseum.org for reception only 6:30 pm: United Skates

Wednesdays, 1 pm July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14 POP-UP FILMS

July 3, 6:30 pm Made po

ssible by

Losing Ground

Robeson Center, Rutgers-Newark 350 Dr. MLK Blvd. July 10, 6:30 pm Sammy Davis, Jr: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Gotta Be Me July 17, 6:30 pm

Rafiki

FREE A

DMISS

ION me, firs t seate d

First co

newarkmuseum.org #ReelBlack #NMBFF #BlackFilm #NewarkMuseum Listings subject to change

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July 24, 6:30 pm

72 Hours: A Brooklyn Love Story? and Girls on the Reel July 31, 6:30 pm Boyz N the Hood Featuring, Donald Bogle, Film Historian, award-winning author CLOSING RECEPTION RSVP@newarkmuseum.org for reception only

Sundays, 12:30 pm July 14

African Cinema curated by the African Film Festival NY

July 28 Latino Cinema curated by Mike Rodriguez, Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce Foundation of Essex County The NMBFF is made possible by

49 Washington Street Newark, NJ 07102-3176 973.596.6550 TTY 711

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

Culture

music, art + literature

BY KRISTIN CURRY

The Newark Museum

Gala Co-Chairs Natalie B. and Obie L. McKenzie Senior VP of Corporate External Affairs at RWJBarnabas Lou LaSalle Photos: Raymond Hagans

ark Grier, vice chairman of Prudential Financial, Inc.; John Schreiber, president and CEO of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center; and American Express were honored at the Newark Museum’s 2019 Legacy Gala on Saturday, May 11 for their long-time support of the Museum and the community. Natalie B. and Obie L. McKenzie served as gala co-chairs. • Mark Grier was the inaugural recipient of the Philanthropic Leadership Award. This award recognizes leaders who have consistently incorporated philanthropic strategies and efforts into their personal lives and professional careers, and inspire others to do the same. Grier has been a champion of the Museum’s mission as well as a cultural ambassador for organizations throughout the community. • John Schreiber received the Museum’s Medal for Meritorious Service, which recognizes commitment to the betterment of communities and the education of those who live throughout the region. His leadership at NJPAC broadened accessibility to the arts for thousands of children and adults throughout the state, and helped make Newark a destination city. • American Express accepted the Newark Museum Commemorative Medal Award, in recognition of its significant commitment to arts and culture in the community.

The Newark Museum Director/CEO Linda Harrison

L–R: Newark Arts Council Executive Director Jeremy Johnson, and Director of the Newark Public Library Jeffrey Trzeciak

L–R: Victor Davson, founder Aljira Contemporary Art Gallery; and John Schreiber, president and CEO, NJPAC

Barbara Bell Coleman

Jazz artist Stefon Harris; his wife Shanè, VP The Prudential Foundation; and Rutgers University, Vice Chancellor Marcia W. Brown

2019 Honorees: L–R: NJPAC President & CEO John Schreiber, Newark Museum Director Linda Harrison, American Express representative, and Prudential Financial Vice Chairman Mark B. Grier www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Vivian Scott Chew with her husband Musical Director Ray Chew

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

“Join us for a family-friendly evening under the stars watching great movies from the top deck of our Zoo parking garage. It’s a great way to spend a summer night and experience Turtle Back in a completely different way. While here, take advantage of the Zoo’s extended evening hours for Family Nights this summer.” Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. ssex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and the Zoological Society of New Jersey Essex County Executive celebrated the 56th anniversary of Essex County Turtle Back on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the Park Savoy and the Board of Chosen Freeholders in Florham Park. All proceeds raised are used to supInvite Youport to Explore Turtle Back Zoo. “We have made tremendous strides transforming Turtle Back into a first-class facility with natural habitat themed exhibits, recreation opportunities, and visitor amenities that make learning fun. Our gala was an opportunity to thank some very special people whose support has made this transformation possible,” he added. Honored for their support: New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy; Kevin P. Conlin; Kevin Cummings, chairman/ CEO of Investors Bank; Ralph Izzo, chairman/president/ CEO of PSE&G; Barry H. Ostrowsky, president/CEO of RWJBarnabas Health and chairman/CEO/president of L–R: NJ Governor Phil Murphy and Essex County Executive Joseph Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. “Joe D” DiVincenzo, Jr.

Turtle Back Zoo Gala

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.,

BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR|RAIN CANCELS|GATES OPEN AT 7:30PM|FILMS BEGIN AT DUSK TURTLE BACK ZOO ADMISSION IS NOT INCLUDED

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

A Dog’s Way Home

Beethoven

Aquaman

Dumbo

Spider-Man: Into Jumanji: Welcome the Spider-Verse to the Jungle L–R: PSEG VP Rick T. Thigpen and daughter Madeline Thigpen L–R: SVP Wells Fargo Private Bank Robert Ross and Essex County with Joe DiVincenzo, Democratic Chairman LeRoy Jones SmallJr. Foot Wonder Park

As part of your trip, join us for Family Night where the Zoo has extended hours to 8:00pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays from July 3rd to August 29th. Take advantage of the late hours when temperatures are cooler and the workday is over. Follow Us! @TurtleBackZoo

Share with Us! #officialturtlebackzoo

www.essexcountynj.org

ESSEX COUNTY TURTLE BACK ZOO

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052 973-731-5800 ~ www.essexcountynj.org/turtlebackzoo

L–R: Calvin D West, Netty Lombardi, and Miles Berger

The Positive Community June/July 2019

Governor Murphy with Calvin D. West www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Raymond Hagans

Be a Fan! Turtle Back Zoo

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive and the Board of Chosen Freeholders Invite You to Explore

BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR|RAIN CANCELS|GATES OPEN AT 7:30PM|FILMS BEGIN AT DUSK TURTLE BACK ZOO ADMISSION IS NOT INCLUDED

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

A Dog’s Way Home

Beethoven

Aquaman

Dumbo

Wonder Park

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Small Foot As part of your trip, join us for Family Night where the Zoo has extended hours to 8:00pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays from July 3rd to August 29th. Take advantage of the late hours when temperatures are cooler and the workday is over. Be a Fan! Turtle Back Zoo

www.essexcountynj.org

ESSEX COUNTY TURTLE BACK ZOO

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052 973-731-5800 ~ www.essexcountynj.org/turtlebackzoo

Share with Us! #officialturtlebackzoo

President Rev. Dr Marilyn M. Harris with Adrian Council, Sr., publisher of The Positive Community holding the Cultural Narrative poster

FRONT ROW (L–R): Rev. André Milteer; Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, past president; Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris, president; Rev. Robert Morrast; Rev. Roosevelt Pinston; and Rev. Rahmin Wynn BACK ROW (L–R): Rev. Alfred Steele, host pastor; Rev. Carolyn Steele host co-pastor; Rev. Kenneth Clayton, past president; Rev. Linwood McNeil; Rev. Vernon Miller

United Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ

nited Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ, led by Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris, hosted their Semi Annual Session at Seminary B.C. in Paterson, NJ, Rev. Alfred Steel host pastor. The theme of the conference: Pursuing the Promises of God (1 Samuel 30:8). Guest preachers included Rev.

Dana P. Owen of Messiah B.C., East Orange NJ; Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, pastor St. Luke B.C.; and Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, St. Paul B.C., Montclair, NJ. On the second night of the three-day session, Publisher Adrian Council introduced the African American Cultural Narrative to the group’s membership. Photos: Karen Waters

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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McDonald’s Gosepelfest Pays Tribute to Aretha Franklin

Mayor Baraka and Curtis Farrow present award to Franklin Family

he 37th Annual McDonald’s Gospelfest returned to Newark’s Prudential Center Arena on Saturday, May 11, 2019. This year's event celebrated the life and legacy of the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. An All-Star gospel cast including Tamar Braxton, Yolanda Adams, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Shirley Caesar, Fred Hammond and the Greater Allen AME Cathedral Mass Choir paid tribute Ms. Franklin. In recognition of Franklin’s impact on the gospel community, her family received a commemorative plaque from the Governor Phil Murphy. Producer/Director Curtis A. Farrow joined with McDonald’s to bring this phenomenal celebration to life for the 20th year. He has received two Emmy awards for producing McDonald’s Gospelfest in 2000 and 2001 and eleven nominations in 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011 through 2014, 2016, and 2017. In February of 2014, Farrow was responsible for the organization, planning and execution of the homegoing services for the

late Whitney Houston and most recently, he produced the homegoing services for the late Aretha Franklin, which were seen around the world. Curtis Farrow credits everything in his life to his strong belief in God. Photos: Karen Waters Jay Davis, Justin McGibbon and Vincent Bryant

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka with gospel artists The Group Fire

Curtis A. Farrow with Governor Phil Murphy and his wife, First Lady Tammy

NYC Councilman Andy King presents proclamation to Franklin Family

and The Newark Municipal Council

The Positive Music Matters Neighborhood Concert Series

North Ward – Wakeman Ave. and Arlington Ave. 8/1/ 2019 South Ward – Murray St. and Brunswick St. 8/8/ 2019 East Ward – Liberty Park / Chestnut and Hennessy St. 8/15/ 2019 West Ward – West End Park / 100-104 West End Ave. 8/22/ 2019 Central Ward – Montgomery and Barclay St. 8/29/ 2019

6:00 pm — 9:00 pm

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Rain Dates 8/2/2019 8/9/2019 8/16/2019 8/23/2019 8/30/ 2019

June/July 2019 The Positive Community

North Stelton AME Children Are Our Future

Co-Pastors Eric & Myra Billips

n observance of Children’s Day on May 19, 2019 at North Stelton AME Church in Piscataway, NJ., Co-Pastors Eric and Myra Billips spoke about the accomplishments of the congregation’s young people. Highlighting messages of encouragement, hope, and faith for the future through the sharing of “The Cultural Narrative” an atmosphere of optimism filled the air. Photos: Karen Waters

30+ MUSICAL ACTS FEATURING

EDDIE PALMIERI BETTYE LaVETTE CHRISTIAN McBRIDE MARK WHITFIELD JOEY DeFRANCESCO QUINCY PHILLIPS MIKE LEE A SONG FOR ALL OF US

EMMET COHEN TRIO ISAIAH THOMPSON TRIO ED PALERMO BIG BAND MICHELA MARINO LERMAN JULIAN LEE: GEMINI MATTHEW WHITAKER

+ MORE!

Sis. Claudette Lanneaux with grandson, Edwin Akira Camacho, III The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Our American Story IN CLASSIC BLACK

R E A D I T, S P E A K I T, T E A C H I T, O W N I T

T O D AY !

The Great African American Cultural Narrative

The African American Cultural Narrative

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

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

Teach the Truth! Teach the children their American story in just 281 words! . . . And may they commit this very narrative to memory,and pass it along. Affirm the positive—our claim on the American Dream! Own this beautiful 25x19 poster with a rich, majestic, presidential blue background color in large print; which includes images of two American presidents, alongside images of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, poet Maya Angolu and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Frame this poster and proudly display it on the walls of your home, office, places of business; in the classrooms and your houses of worship; in barbershops, beauty salons and restaurants. Your $10.00 investment will pay dividends one thousand fold when you teach it to a young child and in return, they speak it back to you. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Order your copy today for only $10.00; 2 for $15.00. Become a valued contributor to The Story about Our Future—today! Special Rates for Bulk Purchases. Include $7.60 for priority shipping and handling. Tax included. Send Check or money order to: The Positive Community Corporation, 133 Glenridge Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042 PayPal and Credit Card accepted Order by phone 973 233 9200

Order online: www.thepositivecommunity.com

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The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Everybody Loves A PARADE!

Scenes from The African American Heritage Parade and Festival Newark, New Jersey May 26 2019

Photos: Raymond Hagans

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June/July 2019 The Positive Community

PATRICIA BALDWIN

Dr. Ronald Grant, Sr.: Unsung Grace & Peace Family!

“I

Love You Lord and I lift my voice to worship You. Oh, my soul, rejoice! Take joy, My King, in what You hear and let it be a sweet, sweet Sound in Your ear.” Did he have recordings? Not on his own. Did he have Stellars or Grammys? No again. Dr. Ronald Grant. Sr. was more than the front man of gospel music; he was the push that everyone needs to become who they are. He was known as the King of Open Mic (especially in Manhattan/Harlem) and some would say this is where he finished strong. However, Ron Grant invested decades of his life into making sure people discovered, challenged, and reached their full vocal potential. He was the world’s best vocal trainer if you could get him, and you had to be referred. He lent his abilities to singers like Mariah Carey, Faith Evans, Usher, Carl Thomas, and Mary Mary among others. Grants’ musical history began at Fountain Christian Church (now Fountain Christian Center, Inc.) in Brooklyn, NY as a children’s choir participant, then musician’s assistant, and eventually musical director. Soon his career took him to stage plays as an original cast member of Vy Higginsen’s Mama I Want to Sing and Let The Music Play-Gospel. Afterward, he returned to his home church, which was always important to Ronald, because he knew he had an obligation to God and a responsibility for his commitment. Ron eventually became a senior A&R executive for Sony Music under the leadership of Tommy Mottola and nurtured top-selling gospel and secular hit makers as well. Working with Sony he headlined showcases, touring Thailand (where he is famously loved), Japan, and the UK. Grant closed every performance singing “I Love You Lord” as his prayer, giving the glory back to God no matter where he was. Ronald believed you can create an atmosphere with your voice. He explained, “God created this world with the sound of His voice; your tones, pitches, and volume can command an audience to pay attention to you... We

The Positive Community June/July 2019

Ron Grant invested decades of his life into making sure people discovered, challenged, and reached their full vocal potential. He was the world’s best vocal trainer if you could get him, and you had to be referred. are to be like Christ and anyone who hears me will know I’m an heir of God.” The proof was evident in the various trips Ronald made. Not only did he arrive safely, but he made it home in time for Sunday’s service to continue his calling, as Head Musical Director of FCC Dr. Ronald Grant, Sr. It’s true, only what you do for Christ will last and your legacy will be remembered forever. Thank you, Ron — for loving me, pushing me, seeing greatness in me as a little girl, talking, yelling, and teaching me, listening to me, showing me, and making me your assistant. I am humbled and forever grateful that you were a part of my life. I pray you are proud. Rest Easy.

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A MUST-SEE!

“

YOU KNOW JACKIE ROBINSON. NOW MEET TONI STONE.” –PETE HEMPSTEAD, THEATERMANIA

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD. BUT IT’S HER GAME.

Photo: Joan Marcus

By LYDIA R. DIAMOND Directed By PAM MacKINNON Based on Curveball: The Remarkable Story of Toni Stone by Martha Ackmann.

THROUGH AUGUST 11 ONLY LEAD SPONSOR

A joint initiative by Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association.

HAROLD AND MIRIAM STEINBERG CENTER FOR THEATRE/LAURA PELS THEATRE

111 WEST 46TH STREET ROUNDABOUTTHEATRE.ORG

Commissioned by Roundabout Theatre Company and Samantha Barrie, supported by The Educational Foundation of America. Major support for Toni Stone is provided by the Laura Pels International Foundation for Theater and the Edgerton Foundation New Play Award. This production is supported, in part, by the Laurents/Hatcher Foundation, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

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June/July 2019 The Positive Community

gladys knight

with special guest will downing

aug 29

iyanla vanzant Acts of Faith Remix Tour Fri, Jun 21 @ 7:30PM A new interactive event with the acclaimed spiritual teacher.

beres hammond Sat, Aug 10 @ 8PM A night of feel-good reggae with Beres Hammond and friends.

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

Jun_PositiveCommunity.indd 1

bring it! live The Dance Battle Tour Sat, Jul 13 @ 8PM An all-new live tour featuring the stars of Lifetime’s Bring It!

savion glover directs the tap dance kid Fri, Sep 13 @ 7PM Sat, Sep 14 @ 7PM Sun, Sep 15 @ 2PM The Tony Award® winning tap master directs student artists in the hit B’way musical that launched his career!

anthony hamilton & jazmine sullivan Fri, Aug 9 @ 8PM Contemporary R&B with two of the music’s most acclaimed stars!

the roots Sat, Nov 16 @ 8PM Cutting-edge R&B, funk, jazz and hip hop with Tonight Show house band The Roots with A Christian McBride Situation.

dance series

5/30/19 2:59 PM

MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Helping People in Need of Housing “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’”—Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

esus instructed his followers to help people in need. A present day, Bible-based gospel song says: “The race isn’t given to the swift or the strong/It’s given to the one that endureth and holds on/I won’t give up/ No, I won’t turn around/No, I am going to hold on.” In autumn 2017, East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC) and the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) organized approximately 6,000 people who rallied in rain at City Hall Park in downtown Manhattan to press New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to build 15,000 new units of affordable senior housing on underutilized New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) land and other vacant sites, and to free up a large number of (presumably unused) NYCHA units. The goal was to provide housing for as many as 50,000 people on the NYCHA waiting list or in shelters. As of June/July 2019, little or nothing has been done to significantly increase the number of available affordable public housing units, nor to broadly improve public housing conditions. Accordingly, on Wednesday, June 12, 2019, church folks held a rally at Gracie Mansion to advocate for the same housing issues. Pastors affiliated with Metro IAF and pastors associated with EBC are urging the Mayor to allocate funds to NYCHA for senior housing. The City’s website reports the city government is moving to do so on six land sites, including four owned by NYCHA and two owned by the Housing Preservation Department (HPD). Reports indicate acquisition of these six publicly-owned land sites may absorb $100 million of City of New York funds. Sources other than the New York City government would have to supply the rest of the half billion dollar price tag. The Mayor’s critics insist the deal was for $500 million of New York City government money. EBC/IAF says its understanding is the six sites were just a start and the allocated $500 million will go further than that. Rev. David K. Brawley, pastor of EBC member congregation St. Paul Community Baptist Church, is reported to have said, “At this time, ladies and gentlemen, let’s thank

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God for our mayor today who is committing resources to senior affordable housing and has committed publicly to working with Metro-IAF for senior affordable housing.” Let’s not trip over the large dollar figures being discussed. Let’s acknowledge, however, that “all things are possible through God for those who believe,” and that, as the Bible states, whatever we do for the least of God’s people we do for Him. Our objective is not to swag and wave money in the air, but to serve people who have little economic means but are in much need of housing. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize: decent housing for people in need. June/July 2019 2019 The The Positive Positive Community Community June/July

MEADOWLANDS

June 20- July 7

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Thu, June 20 OPENING NIGHT/ PREVIEW NIGHT 6 PM–12 AM $8 Admission | $22 Mega Pass A free “Come Back” ticket will be issued* Fri, June 21 DOLLAR DAY 6 PM–1 AM $10 Admission | $2 Parking | $2 Games $2 Rides | $2 Select Food/Drink Items Wed, June 26 KIDS GO FREE NIGHT 5 PM–12 AM FREE admission for kids 12 & younger Mon, July 1 CHEAP CHEAP NIGHT 5 PM–12 AM $5 Admission | $25 Mega Pass Fri, July 5 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL (4:30 PM–6:30 PM**) 5 PM–12 AM $8 Admission | $32 Mega Pass Sun, July 7 GIVEAWAY DAY/CLOSING NIGHT 2 PM–12 AM FREE Giveaway!

FIREWORKS JULY 3 & 4 CHILDREN UNDER 34” ARE ALWAYS ADMITTED FREE! Everyone needs a ticket to ride the rides

PARKING: Mon–Wed: FREE Thu–Sun: $5 | June 21: $2 July 3 & 4: $5

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The Mega Pass includes admission and an unlimited ride hand stamp Not valid on live animal rides or special attractions like the Batcopter. *Patrons who purchase a ticket at the box office will receive a complimentary “Come Back” ticket. The ticket will be valid only for admission on June 24, 25, 27 or July 2. **To get the Early Bird Special, patrons must purchase an admission ticket or Mega Pass before 6:30 PM. After 6:30 PM, ticket pricing reverts to regular pricing, which is $12 admission; $36 Mega Pass.

OVER 150 RIDES & ATTRACTIONS

HARLEM WEEK_EXhibit_2019_.PostiveC.qxp_Layout 1 6/6/19 9:16 AM Page 1

ExhibitorS & VendoRS are inviteD TO PARTCIPATE IN THE NORTHEAST REGION’S LARGEST FAMILY FESTIVAL

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For general information on exhibiting or vending, call Mr. Preston or Ms.Gordon at 212-862-7200 or via email at exhibitor@harlemweek.com. For sponsorship & partnership opportunities please contact Mr. Causey at 212-862-8477 or via email at ecausey@harlemdiscover.com.

www.HARLEMWEEK.com is a Proud Media Partner of HARLEM WEEK 2019.

Tips, Tricks, Timesavers and Shortcuts for Better Use of Microsoft Word

hatever your level of proficiency with Microsoft Word, a little extra knowledge can transform the way we use the word processing program. CMIT Solutions has collected 10 of our favorite tips, tricks, timesavers, and keyboard shortcuts. Most of these suggestions work with all versions of Word, but some are exclusive to newer versions like Word 2013, 2016, or the newly released 2019 edition. 1. Timesaving keystrokes The holy trinity of Microsoft Word are: press Ctrl + C to copy, Ctrl + V to paste, and Ctrl + X to cut to make editing a breeze. Instead of slowly pecking at the keyboard to select text or clicking and dragging with your mouse, you can press Ctrl (in Windows) or Command (on a Mac) and click on any word to select a whole sentence. Alternatively, double click on a word with your mouse to select it for easy editing; triple clicking will select a whole paragraph.

5. Change a document’s formatting. Turn a document from an external source into something that works better for you by pressing Ctrl + Space or the Clear All Formatting button to alter an entire document instead of fixing one attribute at a time.

2. Zoom in or out. To focus on specific words and sentences zoom in on your Word window to 150%. To see the entirety of a document at a quick glance zoom out to 75%. Either way, use the Window > Zoom button to choose the setting that works best for you — or look for the “100%” tab with a slider at bottom right of the document to easily zoom in or out.

7. Use your preferred font. You can choose the default font — this command differs by version, but the most reliable way is to click Format > Font, select the attributes you want, and then click Default.

3. Assess the complexity of your text. In addition to grammar and spelling tools, Microsoft Word comes with the baked-in ability to quantify a document’s reading level using the Flesch Reading Ease Test and Flesh-Kincaid Grade Level Test. These measure the length of your sentences and paragraphs, the difficulty of your words, and the overall ease with which readers can digest your text. This is particularly important in this SEO-driven day and age, when search engine algorithms rank web content by its complexity. To test your text, click on Options > Proofing and make sure the “Show Readability Statistics” box is checked. (On a Mac, navigate to Preferences > Spelling and Grammar.) 4. Save a Word file as a different type of document. When you Save a new file or click Save As, you’ll see a drop-down menu that offers the ability to save under a multitude of file formats. Whether it’s a PDF file that locks down editing abilities or an HTML doc created specifically for the web, Microsoft Word has you covered.

6. Add hyperlinks to your document. Highlight the words you want to serve as the blue, underlined text, then press Ctrl + K . This is another important part of today’s SEO strategy and an easy way to turn your text into a living, breathing document.

8. Change the way numbers, dates, and other quirky characters are displayed. If you like your numerals to display a certain way— say “2nd” or “1/4”—click the drop-down menu that automatically appears when you type such strings of characters, then select the AutoFormat as You Type box. Alternatively, you can click File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect options menu and change the way certain characters show up. 9. Find any word in an instant. Instead of using your mouse to navigate to the Find command, click Ctrl + F to either open the window in older versions of Word, or move the cursor automatically to the Search in Document menu that always appears in the toolbar in newer versions. If you need to replace certain words or characters, click the dropdown arrow on the Find menu’s magnifying glass and click Replace to automatically replace a certain word or phrase with a different word or phrase you specify. If you’re looking for extra productivity and efficiency boosters, or you’d like to learn more about how the Microsoft Office suite can impact on your day-to-day work, contact CMIT Solutions today. We’re here to help you IT work for you, not against you.

CMIT Solutions of Northern Union 973.325.3663• 800.399.CMIT www.cmitsolutions.com/nunioncounty 60

The Positive Community June/July 2019

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Website

Always something going on!

Greetings, Ladies, My name is Michele Davis. I have written a new devotional book that is geared towards women from all walks of life and cultures, Christians and nonChristians alike.

RCDCU Annual

Bike to Fight Prostate Cancer Saturday, September 21, 2019 8:00AM to 3:00PM

RAIN OR SHINE

I wanted to capture the essence of their character of through colors, this is what I envisioned. The name of the book is A Woman of Valor: Eight Colorful Devotions that Reflect the Character of Woman. Below is a sample of what my book is about: RED

Symbolizing that you are a woman of noble character; your relationship with the Lord is extremely vivid, like crimson. You avoid those who are negative, who are not going in the same direction as you. You have a zeal for learning and expanding your horizons. “The Lord is my strength and song, and he has become my salvation.” Psalm 118-14 The New Internatioanl Bible The book is available for purchase on: Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, XulonPress.com, ebay.com, Christian Publications, Apple itunes.

My website is • www.awomanofvalor.org You can also contact me at • mickeydcreations@gmail.com and (917) 992-8937 www.thepositivecommunity.com

RIDES FOR ALL LEVELS: 30 and 50 mile ride for the experienced rider $45.00 10 miles for the casual fun rider $35.00 3 mile walk/ride in Colonial Park $15.00

Start/Finish at Franklin Middle School 415 Francis Street • Somerset, NJ 08873

Delicious lunch, music and awards at noon Register online at www.active.com or www.rcdcubike.com June/July 2019 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com

June 2019

Vol. 20 No. 5

Publisher

BY R.L. WITTER

AM I A CHRISTIAN?

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales

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

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

Photographers

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

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC

Production Assistant April Davis

The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

62 The Positive Community 62 The Positive Community

The Last Word

Jume/July 2019 June/July 2019

never thought I would think those words, much less utter them aloud. But here I am, middle-aged, decidedly blessed, and feeling more strongly rooted in my faith than ever before in my life. And I’m asking myself that question. It’s not God’s Word that has me questioning my Christianity; nor do I question His love. Nothing there has changed. I still love The Lord and believe in His divinity, His grace, and His mercy. I understand these things are the only reason I am breathing, walking, and living a good life. Prayer is a huge part of my life. In our home, we not only pray before meals and bedtime, but throughout the day. Sometimes it’s a brief prayer for strength or patience. Lately, we’ve been praying quite a bit for the health and welfare of ailing friends and relatives. But most often we give prayers of thanks. We are thankful for our lives, our love, our health, our home, our faith, our families, our jobs, our friends and myriad other things. So nothing has changed there, either. What has changed for me is that I no longer want to be associated with many of the people who call themselves Christians. I was raised with Christians who were kind and generous. They strove to be honest and faithful, and were unafraid to call out dishonesty, cruelty, and the like. These were the Christians who were kind to me at church and always had a smile for me when I saw them outside of church. These were the older ladies who called me “Baby” and tended to my scraped knee when I fell off my bicycle on their block. These are the people who prayed for my husband when he was ill, and showed up in voluminous numbers

last year to comfort my family when both my father-in-law and my dad passed away. Too many of the Christians I see now are championing cruelty and immorality, and doing so in the name of a politician, not in Christ’s name. How do you protest to keep people in subhuman conditions without proper food or medical attention? How do you claim it is God’s will that people from other countries suffer the consequences of violence and poverty? The Christians who helped form my Christian values embodied the following scripture: “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…” — Philippians 2:130 ESV If being a Christian today means embracing the antithesis of these things, then I don’t think I am a Christian anymore. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children. So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love. Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered. If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

Call: 1-888-FIDELIS Click: fideliscare.org/everychildcovered Visit: A Fidelis Care community office near you. Search for locations at fideliscare.org/offices

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)

TTY: 711

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.