March 2010 by The Positive Community

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

March 2010 www.thepositivecommunity.com $2.95

CELEBRATING WOMEN! HARRIET MICHEL

Making a Difference for Minority Business

EXCLUSIVE New York State First Lady Michelle Paterson Speaks

It’s happening at

Columbia in March

Monday, March 1

Café Arts: What Do You Do With Music? 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PicNic Market & Café 2665 Broadway at 102nd Street

Discussion with Brad Garton, composer, professor of music and director of Columbia University’s Computer Music Center. $10 per person. Limited seating. For more info, call (212) 222-8222 or email cafearts@columbia.edu.

Tuesday, March 2 The Role of Nuclear Weapons in the 21st Century—China, Russia and the United States 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. 1501 International Affairs, Morningside campus

The Weatherhead East Asian Institute and the Harriman Institute present the Hugh Borton and Philip E. Mosely Distinguished Lecture on Eurasia, with Morton H. Halperin, senior advisor, Open Society Institute. For more info, call Caroline Hasegawa at (212) 854-6916 or email cb2469@ columbia.edu.

Wednesday, March 3 Lecture: The Protest Psychosis: How Schizophrenia Became a Black Disease 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 754 Schermerhorn Extension, Morningside campus

Jonathan M. Metzl, associate professor of psychiatry and women’s studies, University of Michigan, explores the interactions between psychiatry, gender and culture. For more info, contact the Institute for Research on Women and Gender at irwag@columbia.edu or (212) 854-3277.

This Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War 6:00 p.m. Faculty Room, Low Library

Drew Gilpin Faust, president of Harvard University, will discuss her award-winning book This Republic of Suffering: Death and the American Civil War. Registration required. To register, send an email to lehmancenter@columbia.edu.

Thursday, March 4 How Does Music Free Us? Afro-Asian Revolutionary Concepts in New Music 7:30 p.m. 301 Philosophy, Morningside campus

Forum with composer and author Fred Ho. For more info, call (212) 851-1633 or email ym189@columbia.edu.

Lecture: The Ivory Tower: A History of an Idea About Knowledge and Politics 6:15 p.m. Second Floor Common Room, East Campus, Morningside campus Speakers: Steven Shapin, Harvard University, and Craig Calhoun, director, Social Science Research Council. No tickets or reservations required. For more info call, (212) 854-8443 or email heymancenter@columbia.edu.

Friday, March 5

Woman’s Basketball vs. Yale

7:00 p.m. Levien Gymnasium, Morningside campus

Thursday, March 11

Artist Talk: Aki Sasmato 6:30 p.m. Dodge Hall, Morningside campus

Tickets start at $8. For more info, call (888) Lions-11 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

Sasmato, the 2010 Whitney Biennial Artist, will discuss recent work. Limited seating. For more info, call (212) 8544065 or email arts@columbia.edu.

Open Mic: Read-In/Speak-Out on Haiti

Lecture: Architecture Inside-Out Series: Carbon Democracy

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. East Gallery, Maison Française (Buell Hall), Morningside campus Speak out about the earthquake and recovery, or read a work of Haitian literature or a work on Haitian history or culture. English, French or Kreyol. To sign up, email Huewayne at haw2122@columbia.edu. Voluntary contributions will benefit the There is Hope Coalition at Columbia University and Partners in Health.

Composer Portraits: Sebastian Currier

8:00 p.m. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus The performance includes the world premiere of a Miller Theatre commission, along with an encore performance of a 2006 Miller commission played by pianist Christopher Taylor. Tickets $7–$25. For more info, call (212) 854-7799 or visit www.millertheatre.com/events.

Monday, March 8 Café Science: The Conqueror Worm: What Model Organism Genetics Tells Us About Life

6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PicNic Market & Café, 2665 Broadway at 102nd Street Speaker: Nobel laureate and Columbia professor of biological sciences Martin Chalfie. $10 per person. Limited seating. For more info, call Stephanie Allred at (212) 851-7809 or email sa2695@columbia.edu.

Tuesday, March 9 Prayer as Politics: American Muslim Women, Religious Leadership, and Media Representations 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 801 International Affairs, Morningside campus

A discussion with Juliane Hammer, assistant professor of Islamic studies, George Mason University and author of Palestinians Born in Exile: Diaspora and the Search for a Homeland. For more info, call (212) 851-0781 or email info@ircpl.org.

Wednesday, March 10 The Grand Tour Orchestra 8:00 p.m. Italian Academy, 1161 Amsterdam Ave.

Columbia’s Italian Academy for Advanced Studies presents the Grand Tour Orchestra. Free reserved seating. To reserve seats, email rw2115@columbia.edu. For more info, contact Rick Whitaker at (212) 854-1623 or rickawhitaker@ gmail.com.

6:30 p.m. 114 Avery, Morningside campus

Speaker: Timothy Mitchell, professor, Department of Middle East and Asian Languages and Cultures, Columbia University. For more info, call Benjamin Prosky at (212) 854-9248 or email gsappevents@columbia.edu.

Saturday, March 20 26th Annual Harmony Sweepstakes A Cappella Festival 7:00 p.m. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus

The Harmony Sweepstakes has been delighting audiences for more than a quarter century and continues to grow in popularity. Tickets $19-$25. For more info, call Colette Thompson at (718) 222-3339, or visit www.millertheatre/ com/events or www.harmonysweepstakes.com/newyork.

Monday, March 22 Café Social Science: Shaded By Fear: A New Look At the New Deal 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PicNic Market & Café, 2665 Broadway at 102nd Street

Discussion with Columbia professor of political science and history Ira Katznelson. $10 per person. Limited seating. For more info, call (212) 222-8222 or e-mail cafesocial science@columbia.edu.

Tuesday, March 23 History Never Dies: Northeast Asia’s Troubled Present Noon to 1:30 p.m. 918 International Affairs, Morningside campus

Speaker: Alexis Dudden, associate professor, Department of History, and director, Foundations of Humanitarianism Program, University of Connecticut. For more info, contact Caroline Hasegawa at cb2469@columbia.edu or (212) 854-6916.

Thursday, March 25 State of the Planet 2010: Meeting the Challenges of Climate, Poverty and Economic Recovery

All-day event Roone Arledge Auditorium, Lerner Hall, Morningside campus This conference, held every two years by Columbia’s Earth Institute, brings together innovative thinkers and leaders from many academic disciplines as well as media, government, public policy and business. This year’s event—held simultaneously in Beijing, New Delhi, London and Nairobi—will be webcast with interactive features. For more info, and to register for the New York event, visit www.stateoftheplanet.org.

All events are open to the public. This is a sampling of them. For additional events or general information, visit www.columbia.edu or call (212) 854-2871. For Columbia sports info, visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

Thursday, March 25

Creative Writing Lecture Series 7:00 p.m. Philosophy Hall, Morningside campus

Join author Lydia Davis as she gives a talk on the writing craft: “A Beloved Duck Gets Cooked: Innovative Forms.” Limited seating. For more info, call (212) 854-4391 or email arts@columbia.edu.

The Continuing Financial Crisis: Perspectives from The North and the South

Noon Davis Auditorium, Schapiro Center, Morningside campus Speakers: Columbia professor and Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz; Prabhat Patnaik, professor of economics, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; and Jomo Kwame Sundaram, founder and chair, International Development Economics Associates. Registration suggested. For more info, call (212) 854-8443 or email heymancenter. columbia.edu.

Saturday, March 27 William Schuman Award Concert: Pauline Oliveros 8:00 p.m. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus

The Columbia University School of the Arts William Schuman Award recognizes the lifetime achievement of an American composer. Dean Carol Becker honors Pauline Oliveros. Tickets $7–$25. For more info, call (212) 854-7799 or visit www.millertheatre.com/events.

Monday, March 29 Exhibition Opening and Debate: Operators’ Exercises: Open Form Film and Architecture

6:30 p.m. Arthur Ross Architecture Gallery, Buell Hall, Morningside campus Discussion of Polish art in the 1970s with Krysztof Wodiczko, Lukasz Ronduda, Felicity Scott and Mark Wasiuta. For more info, call Benjamin Prosky at (212) 8549248 or email gsappevents@columbia.edu.

Wednesday, March 31 Women’s Tennis vs. Cornell

2:00 p.m. Dick Savitt Tennis Center, 575 W. 218th St. Tickets start at $8. For more info, call (888) Lions-11 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

Getting to Columbia The Morningside Heights campus is located at 116th Street and Broadway. By subway: No. 1 train to 116th Street station. By bus: M4, M11, M60 or M104.

Council of Korean Churches of Greater New York New York City Ms. Hazel Dukes President THE TRUSTEES OFOF THEBOARD BOARDOFOF TRUSTEES NEW YORK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY NEW YORK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY NAACP New York State Conference THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF

Seventh Annual Seventh Annual Urban Angel AwardsGala Gala Urban Angel Awards Seventh Annual

ISISHONORED AND PLEASED HONORED AND PLEASED NEWTHE YORK THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY TO PRESENT BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF TO PRESENT Maria Elena Girone THE 2010 URBAN ANGEL AWARDEES: IS HONORED AND PLEASED THE 2010 URBAN AWARDEES: NEW YORKANGEL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Mrs. President and Chief Executive Officer TO PRESENT IS HONORED AND PLEASED The Puerto Rican Family Institute THE 2010 URBAN ANGEL AWARDEES: TO PRESENT

Seventh Annual Urban Angel Awards Gala Urban Angel Awards Gala

Ms. Carla A. HarrisNew York City Ms. Hazel Dukes Managing Director, Investment CouncilMs. ofManagement Korean Churches of Greater New York Hazel Dukes President New York City Morgan NAACP Stanley New York State Conference President Council of Korean Churches of Greater New York

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NAACP New York State Conference

New York City Mrs. Maria Elena Ms. Girone Hazel Dukes

tion 6:00 pm; Dinner 7:00 pm

Council of Korean Churches of Greater New York Council of Korean Churches New York THENew 2010 ANGEL AWARDEES: York URBAN Cityof Greater

The Very ReverendPresident Donald Reilly, O.S.A. andF. Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Maria ElenaPresident Girone Ms. Hazel Dukes The Puerto Rican Family Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Prior Provincial NAACP New York State Conference President The Puerto Rican Family Institute Province of St. Thomas ofNAACP Villanova Ms. Carla A. Harris New York State Conference

April 20, 2010 Marriott Marquis AprilNew 20,York 2010 1535 Broadway 45th Street New York Marriott at Marquis New York, New York 1535 Broadway at 45th Street Silent Auction and Reception 6:00 pm; Dinner 7:00 pm

New York, New York April 20, 2010 SilentYork Auction and Reception 6:00 pm; Dinner 7:00 pm New April 20, Marriott 2010 Marquis th 1535 at 45Marquis Street New Broadway York Marriott th New York, New York 1535 Broadway at 45 Street Silent Auction and Reception 6:00 pm; Dinner 7:00 pm New York, New York Silent Auction and Reception 6:00 pm; Dinner 7:00 pm For more information,

Ms. Karen Leahy at

Mrs. Maria Elena Girone Managing Director, Investment Management Ms. Carla A. Harris Morgan Stanley President and Chief Executive Officer

Managing Director, Investment Mrs. MariaManagement Elena Girone The Puerto Rican Family Institute Morgan Stanley President and F. Chief Executive The Very Reverend Donald Reilly, O.S.A. Officer Prior TheProvincial Puerto Rican Family Institute

Ms. A. Harris The Very Reverend Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. Province of St. Thomas ofCarla Villanova Managing PriorDirector, ProvincialInvestment Management Ms. Carla A. Harris Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Morgan Stanley

Managing Director, Investment Management Morgan Stanley The Very Reverend Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. Prior Provincial The Very Reverend Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Prior Provincial Province of St. Thomas of Villanova contact For more information, contact 212.870.1203 kleahy@nyts.edu Ms. Karen Leahy ator 212.870.1203 or kleahy@nyts.edu

For more information, contact Ms. Karen Leahy at 212.870.1203 or kleahy@nyts.edu 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500 New York, NY 10115 Tel: 212-870-1211 Fax:Drive, 212-870-1236 475 Riverside Suite 500 NewURL: York,www.nyts.edu NY 10115 E-mail: online@nyts.edu Tel: 212-870-1211

Fax: 212-870-1236 URL: www.nyts.edu E-mail: online@nyts.edu

475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500 New York, NY 10115 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500 Tel: 212-870-1211 New York, NY 10115 Fax: 212-870-1236 Tel: 212-870-1211 URL: www.nyts.edu Fax: 212-870-1236 E-mail: online@nyts.edu URL: www.nyts.edu E-mail: online@nyts.edu

For more information, contact Ms. Karen Leahy at 212.870.1203 kleahy@nyts.edu For more information,orcontact Ms. Karen Leahy at 212.870.1203 or kleahy@nyts.edu

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March 2010

CONTENTS 32

Features Dynamic duo pins success on Harlem . . . . 18 Harriet Michel: A Lifetime of Service . . . . . 24 Rutgers Lecture Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Advancing the Second Reconstruction . . . . 29 Gnerational Shift at NAACP . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 A Muslim womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey of self discovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 The Multicultural Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Fortunate Observer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Book Review: Brainwashed . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Go Green: Avoiding Marketing Hype . . . . . . 60

&also inside COVER STORY MICHELLE PATERSON: IN HER OWN WORDS Paterson photos courtesy Office of Governor Paterson

Roll Call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Guest Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 The Blood Speaks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Single, Saved & Satisfied . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Financial Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Gospel Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Ask Dr. Palmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Fitness Doctor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 The Last Word. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Celebrate National Reading Month by sharing a book with a child Reading is the most important thing you can do to help a child learn. Here are a few tips for getting started: ■ Choose good books. Encourage children to select books they like as well as trying out different kinds of books. Use your local library, exchange books with other families, and use suggested reading lists offered by your child’s teacher or school librarian. ■ Create reading spaces. Help your child create a special place to keep his or her books. Find comfortable, well-lit places to read. ■ Make it a habit. Invite your child to read with you and to you every day to help build a lifelong love of learning.

NJEA members: working to make public schools great for every child. Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vincent Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, NJEA Assistant Executive Director/Research Director

Apostle William Brown Chairman & CEO Miracle Mountain Christian Resorts

VIP Suites w/Jacuzzi Overlooking Apostolic Square

Junior Suites w/ 11/2 Bath Overlooking Canaan Lane

“Sermon On The Mount”

Christians of all Denominations Hold Their Retreats, Conventions & Outings at Miracle Mountain

Miracle Mountain newly built 600 seat a/c church available for your congregational worship & praise fellowship.

“For Spiritual Growth”

Spacious Single And Double Rooms. Extra Cots Available.

Dr. C.R. Johnson 650 seat a/c conference center available for your lecture & seminars

Single • Double Junior Suites w/1 1/2 Bath VIP Suites w/Jacuzzi All rooms equipped w/television, A/C, private baths and telephone

Over 120 Beautiful Air Conditioned Rooms Worship Facilities Conference Centers Olympic Swimming Pool Fitness Center Elegant 700 Seat Grand Ballroom Indoor & Outdoor Resort Facilities

Reserve your special date!

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Gift Shop features an array of souvenirs, books and gifts.

Take a stroll through the Beautiful Country Setting.

Meditate and enjoy God’s great outdoors.

Call (212) 722-5488 or Fax (212) 722-6563 E Mail: mmresort@aol.com

www.miraclemountaincr.org

GREAT

R C oll

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

all

TO PROGRESS

he following clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions have committed to the purchase of at least one hundred magazines per month at $1.00 each (50% off the cover price) or support this publication through the purchase of advertising for their events, services or consumer products. THIS IS ONLY A PARTIAL LISTING.

Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Beulah B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Gerald L. Dickson, Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Pastor Office of Black Ministry Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Exec. Director General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President United Black Clergy of Westchester Inc. Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Harlem Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Pastor Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Lucille McEwen, President & CEO Manhattan District AME Churches Rev. Harold Rutherford, Presiding Elder Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, N.J. Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Paterson’s Pastor’s Workshop* Rev. Dr. James Kuykendall, President Nazarene Congregational Church, Brooklyn—Rev, Conrad B. Tillard, Pastor St. Paul Community B. C., Brooklyn Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor St. John AME Church, Harlem Rev. James E. Booker Jr., Pastor The New Hope B. C., Newark Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor

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

Greater Allen Cathedral, Queens, NY Revs. Floyd and Elaine Flake, Co-Pastors St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Pastor The Cathedral International, Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. William L. Watley, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Fellowship Missionary B, C,, Newark, NJ Rev. E.T. Byrd, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Abyssinian B. C., Harlem Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Metropolitan B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Masjid Imam Ali K. Muslim, Newark, NJ Imam Akbar Muhammad Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Senior Pastor St Luke B. C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Senior Pastor First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset, NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor Christian Love B..C, Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Berean B. C., Brooklyn Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor

World Gospel Music Association Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder, Newark, N.J.

Schomburg Center

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor

Birdel's Tapes & Audio, Brooklyn

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

Windows Over Harlem

Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Rev. Ben Monroe, St. Albans, NY COGIC*

American Diabetes Association

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

African American Heritage Parade Committee, NJ Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Amerigroup New Jersey, Inc.

New Jerusalem B.C., Queens, NY* Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Pastor

Davis Chiropractic, NJ

New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor

WBGO-88.3FM

Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Harlem Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Pastor

Apel Travel/Alken Tours, Brooklyn

WKMB-1070AM Inner City Broadcasting

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

African American Muslims for Interfaith Relationships (AAMIR)

Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Peekskill, NY* Rev. Adolphus Lacey, Pastor

The Committee to Preserve Our Heritage and Tradition—Harlem, Muhammad Idris, Chair; Anna Muhammad, Committee Member

Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY* Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor Newark Dist. of AME Church, Newark, NJ* Howard Grant, Presiding Elder First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ* H. Grady James III, Pastor

Businesses & Organizations

Community Bank of Bergen County, Garfield, NJ Mildred Crump, Newark City Council American Heart Association, Northern NJ Medgar Evers College Carver Federal Savings Bank

The Bozeman Law Firm New York Urban League

New Brunswick Theological Seminary NAACP, NY State Conference*

The United Way of Essex and West Hudson

NAACP New Jersey*

University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ

National Black United Fund*

The Sharing Network

NJ Horizon Health*

The College of New Rochelle Essex County College, NJ New York Theological Seminary

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

Newark School of Theology

Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ. Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Senior Pastor

125th St. BID

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

City National Bank

Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce

* New to the Roll Call

All of the above have embraced a practical community building ideal that encourages self acceptance, self reliance and self respect.Enroll your church, business, school or organization today. Contact The Positive Community at 973-233-9200 or e-mail at rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. Building community and economy dollar by dollar. Join the Great Roll Call to Progress today because a positive community is everybody's business . . . it really pays to care!

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guesteditorial Why I am no longer running for re-election BY GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON Governor, New York State

or twenty-five years I have been privileged to serve the people of this State in the Legislature and in the Governor’s office. I have fought for New York’s families and against the special interests looking to maintain the status quo. And as I said in my State of the State Address earlier this year, every decision I make comes down to one simple question —am I doing what’s right for the people of New York. It hasn’t always been easy, but through it all I never forgot my oath of office or my fundamental responsibility: to serve the people of New York in good faith and with deep integrity. I have closed more than $33 billion in deficits and helped rescue New York from the brink of insolvency. I have laid the foundation for our State’s economic recovery and for New York to lead a New Economy based on knowledge, technology and innovation. I have leveled the economic playing field, by increasing opportunities for Minority and Women Owned Businesses. I led the fight to overhaul the Rockefeller Drug Laws, taking kingpins off the streets and reuniting families torn apart by a flawed and misguided war on drugs. And I enacted historic reforms to our pension system, our public higher education system, our health insurance system, and our public authorities. These and other accomplishments will improve the lives of New Yorkers not only in the short-term, but for generations to come. But much work remains, and until very recently I fully believed that I would have the opportunity to continue that work in a full four-year term. However, I am not ignorant of political reality. I have spent long enough in politics to know that sometimes you have to stop striving to serve, and step back gracefully. And that time has come for me. Over the course of the past few weeks, it became apparent that continuing my candidacy for governor would have distracted me from doing the business of the people,

www.thepositivecommunity.com

and right now New Yorkers cannot afford to have a chief executive focused on anything else. At the same time, I welcome a full and thorough investigation into the actions of myself and my administration. I have never abused my office, and I am confident that when the facts come out the truth will prevail. I intend to serve every remaining day of my term, and I intend to do so with humility and a fierce determination to do what’s right. This office deserves no less. This state deserves no less. And the people I represent deserve to know that their governor is their greatest advocate. They also deserve to know the truth about the state of our state, and I will continue to speak openly and honestly about where we are and where we are going. The challenges we face together are historic. Meeting them will require those of us in elected office to put aside partisan politics and work together for the benefit of the people of New York. We still face massive budget deficits. New Yorkers are still losing their jobs. Families continue to have trouble making ends meet. And businesses are still struggling to make payroll. New Yorkers need a leader who can spend every minute focused on these problems – and every other problem that crosses the Governor’s desk on a daily basis. Each one of them is important, and each decision affects the lives and livelihoods of millions of people. Every Governor from John Jay to Franklin Roosevelt to Nelson Rockefeller has shouldered this burden. It has been the great honor of my life to be a part of this extraordinary legacy, and I will always be grateful to the people of New York for allowing me to serve as their leader during such a transformative period. Throughout my career I have tasted success and failure. I have known triumph and adversity. But through a quarter century of service, I never abandoned my personal judgment for expediency or convenience. My heart has always been with those I have been fortunate to represent, and my commitment to this State and to the people of New York will remain as firm as ever. March 2010 The Positive Community

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REV. JOHNNY RAY YOUNGBLOOD THE “BLOOD” SPEAKS

Rev. Youngblood is the pastor of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Brooklyn

In Praise of God’s Gift—Woman n a sense, the month of March is the time set apart to celebrate one of God’s gift—Woman. The Bible is specific about God’s gifting Woman for companionship, not competition—but companionship. The celebration is in order because one of God’s reputations is that God is the giver of every good and perfect gift, so, from a spiritual man’s perspective, “Thank you, God, for Woman.” Good—of God and Perfect —as an individual at a given time, space and purpose. Good and perfect as mother; good and perfect as wife; good and perfect as friend; good and perfect as co-worker, good and perfect as a person, etc. The thing about March is that if the recipient does not celebrate the gift, our times testify to the fact that the gift will celebrate herself as an individual and as a group. Again, God be praised for “The Gift.” As we all know, these are the best of times and the worst of times. For while this time of thanksgiving is warranted, there are clouds of confusion in the skies of today; for there are gender wars and rumors of wars. Confusion characterizes the human contract. Society has become sovereign and purpose (raison d’être) is defined only in terms of the immediate. The eternal ramifications of being women, as well as men— of being human—have been lost in the scramble for immediate significance. Oppression is being recognized on every front as the ever present threat to any of humanity—color, class, gender, ethnicity, etc., but rather than being obliterated, it is being transformed and transferred. Discussions around oppression have become a shell game so the devil only changes its visage, but as a rose by any other name is still a rose and a thorn by any other name is still a thorn, oppression by any other name is still oppression. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth (lex talionis) never leaves room for open discussion and healing, it merely results in survival of the fittest/most popular. It is my prayer that men and women will one day be able to sit down together at the table of humanity and study war no more. Again, thank God for God’s Gift.

I NEW MONTHLY COLUMN!

In a sense, the month of March is the time set apart to celebrate one of God’s gifts—Woman. The Bible is specific about God’s gifting Woman for companionship, not competition—but companionship.

The Positive Community March 2010

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Brooklyn Catholic Schools Spread Love

he aftershocks of the Haitian earthquake vibrated in the hearts, lives and classrooms of Saints Joachim and Anne Catholic School in Queens Village, NY. The students, 80 percent of whom are of Haitian descent, became a part of this tragic event. The school’s Black History Celebration, although overshadowed by grief, was a tribute to the resilient spirit and courage of people of African ancestry. The students were involved in many creative projects, dance and vocal performances and art. The activity that touched the hearts of their school community was the YouTube video the students created for the victims of the devastating earthquake In another part of town located in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, St. Francis of Assisi School students

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from the Caribbean nations and West Africa accomplished an outreach to the community. The school’s dance group visited a nursing home and using the music from some Ghanaian folk songs and African American spirituals, they shared their gifts and talents providing an exciting afternoon for the residents. At Queen of All Saints, located in the heart of Fort Greene in Brooklyn, students were given the opportunity to honor their rich culture, heritage and ancestry. It was a magical time as students acknowledged the endless list of poets, politicians, scientists, musicians, artists, actors, civil rights leaders, athletes, etc. who have imparted their lasting and timeless ingenuity, skills, and talents—enriching not only American culture, but the entire world as well.

March 2010 The Positive Community

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REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

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

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

Art Exhibit Focuses on Black Church here’s an old adage: “freedom just ain’t free.” The extraordinary exhibit created by photographer/writer/curator Jimmy Richardson, his pictorial masterpiece speaks volumes about the road fraught with pain and sorrow as the black church emerged from the shadows of societal rejection to a leading spiritual, economic and social institution. Actually, the exhibit is titled, Freedom Boulevard: The Black Church, We Are Living Stones. Richardson has taken nine area churches from the city of Paterson, one from Newark and another from Passaic and carved out a historical retrospective about each entity and the contributions they’ve made right in their own corners of the world. The churches include: The First African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, the Community Baptist Church of Love, the Greater Bibleway Church, Canaan Baptist Church, Second Baptist Church, St. Luke Baptist Church, Calvary Baptist Church, Gilmore Memorial Tabernacle, the New A.M.E. Zion Church, all of Paterson; the St. James AME Church of Newark and The Church By The Side Of The Road in Passaic. According to Richardson, he came to the realization that little was published in local archives about these churches, making it virtually impossible to learn of their historic evolution. For instance, he said the First African Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest black church in Passaic County, founded in 1834. Four days before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, he visited the Community Baptist Church of Love at the behest of the late pastor, the Rev. Frederick LaGarde, Sr. Educator and leader of Pres. Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s kitchen cabinet, Mary McLeod Bethune, visited the Calvary Baptist Church in 1953 and civilrights pioneer Rosa Parks visited the city twice by invitation from LaGarde when a street and school, respectively, were named after her. Calvary is considered the mother of churches amongst black Baptist churches in the city and St. James AME Church, under the tutelage of the Rev. William Watley, PhD., stands as a progressive church that spirals upward because of Watley’s unique vision. So, you’re wondering how The Church By The Side Of

The Positive Community March 2010

“. . . if you’re in the Paterson area by accident or design, trek on down to the Paterson Museum, 2 Market St., to see this breath-taking exhibition.” The Road was included amongst these stalwart, historic landmarks? We’re less than 20 years old but Richardson understood that the building that houses about 150 folks was previously a drug den inundated with crack vials and dirty needles - a shell, if you will, with dirt floors and unfinished studs. It was an eyesore to the community and a haven for drug addicts for more than 17 years. With sweat equity and monetary resources, God enabled us to house a multi-faceted ministry while maintaining a family-like ambiance. Therefore, if you’re in the Paterson area by accident or design, trek on down to the Paterson Museum, 2 Market St., to see this breath-taking exhibition. Chandeliers dangle from the ceiling, placed there by Jimmy himself. Portraits of honored pastors and their churches are embossed across the museum walls and there is a mural-sized picture of St. James that gives one a feeling of actually being in the sanctuary itself. In a word, awesome! The Herald News and The Record, two local daily publications covered the exhibition. The Herald News published a feature story about the display, and Jimmy, on the front page of the newspaper...above the fold. Very important. The Record published the story on the front page of the local section of the paper and from that article, Jimmy was asked to exhibit his wares at an upcoming gospel fest in May at Gilda’s Club in Hackensack named after comedic genius, Gilda Radner. Jimmy is also working on taking his show on the road nationwide, thank you very much to other museums/organizations. This remarkable native son of Paterson is on his way. He has, in my judgment, earned the thunderous applause that has gone forth. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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SONJA GRACY SAVED, SINGLE & SATISFIED

“Woman, Thou Art Loosed”

“B

ishop! Bishop! Bishop!” was almost all one could hear some years ago when famous mega-church preacher Bishop T.D. Jakes published his best-selling book Woman, Thou Art Loosed! All of the women I knew in churchdom were buzzing about Bishop Jakes’ book that was spot-on in addressing many women’s needs for effective, emotional healing. Dozens of sisters I know carried cherished, dog-eared copies of “Loosed!” stashed in the zipped linen sections of their leather pocketbooks. I confess I snatched up my own copy too and then brought Jakes’ other books like God’s Leading Lady and Promises from God for Single Women. I enjoyed Jakes’ scriptural address to women on breaking free from the emotional chains that bind us. I believe that beauty, exultant personhood and distinction are an inalienable part of every woman’s makeup. For me, that is painstakingly demonstrated from the very last creature God sculpted, Eve, to the Lord Jesus’ sensitive and respectful approaches to the women He befriends in the Scriptures. And it was Jesus, who, after a powerful, healing encounter with a woman who’d been sick for over a decade declared, “ . . . woman, thou art loosed!” It is those four words wellknown in Christendom that boosted Bishop Jakes’ rise on best-seller lists worldwide. I mention Jakes’ work to connect to the “womanhood” ideal this Women’s History Month and how I am more fully appreciative of all of the privileges I enjoy due to the exploits of women who came before me. And while I am apt to be reminded this month of the impacting contributions made by European and American female “movers and shakers” from Joan of Arc to Jacqueline Onassis, I’m making it my personal prerogative to memorialize Queen Candace, Harriet Tubman, Madame C.J. Walker and Toni Morrison too in this celebratory tribute to incredible, indomitable women. And while women from all cultures indeed have achieved tremendous accomplishments in every sphere of human endeavor, my blackness and the history my

The Positive Community March 2010

blackness bequeaths me, makes me particularly appreciative of the achievements of black women. It was those strong, ancestral women who conquered the double yoke of two indignities—being black and female—that helped pave the way for me today. To traverse the fate of shivering, naked slaves on the auction blocks of early Jamestown and bookmark American history in the most critical arenas of influence—in education, Mary Jane Patterson (the first black woman to receive a B.A. from Oberlin College in 1862); in religion, Julia A.J. Foote (an early 19th century evangelist); for freedom, abolitionist Harriet Tubman; in literature—Phyllis Wheatley (America’s first black woman poet); in aeronautics – Bessie Coleman (first black licensed woman pilot); in entertainment—Hattie McDaniel (first black female “Oscar” winner); in medicine—Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler (first black female doctor); in government Shirley Chisholm (first black female U.S. Representative); and for space, man’s final frontier— Mae Jemison (America’s first black female astronaut) was simply astonishing and to make their mark on the world in a fraction of the time they spent as chattel in America’s dehumanizing slave trade is amazing. The fortitude of women in general and the irrepressible, abounding spirit of African-American women in particular is astounding. We are the marvelous, maternal drivers of a people once regarded as “no people” and repudiated as a race without a history or intelligence or any native beauty of our own. But through the process of time—hard, horrifying, humiliating times—the female compeer of a forbearing, fighting people helped define and elevate a glorious race of survivors. We did it through God’s strength and remembrance, and through a uniqueness of persevering womanhood that is incontestably all our own. Women’s History Month is my personal marker for memorializing all women—my ancestry’s women especially—wayfaring women who’ve come a long way—from slavery’s physical and mental chains and pains to strident, bombastic historic gains—we are women who have defied unimaginable repressions, women who have been dimensionally and marvelously “loosed.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

re A e W OPEN HOUSE w. FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS

Sat Mar 27th 9:30 am Sat Apr 24th 9:30 am Wed May 19th 6:00 pm The Atrium Main Campus 303 University Ave. Newark, NJ 07102 973/ 877-1941

IA EC

S ES

Financial Aid (FAFSA) Workshops Bring your 2008 (for Summer I) or 2009 (for Summer II and after) Tax Return(s) with schedules. Dependents will need their parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tax info as well. Saturdays 10am. Wednesdays 6pm.

Let Justice Be Done by Jean Nash Wells The panelists for Dreams From Our Fathers L-R: Judge Felix R. Neals, his son, the Honorable Julien X. Neals; Candace Kelley, Esq., moderator, former host for NJN's Another View; Tamara Britt, Esq., her dad Judge Randolph Jackson; Judge Harold Fullilove Sr. and his son, Judge Harold Fullilove Jr. Photo Credit: Barry Gray

Newark Public Library Exhibition focuses on Lawyers

iat Justitia: Let Justice Be Done, The History, Struggles, and Civil Rights Accomplishments of African American Lawyers & Judges, is the theme of the an exhibition at the Newark Public Library now through March 20, 2010. The experience of early African American lawyers who were subjected to racism as they attempted to capture and deliver elusive justice for African Americans

EXPLORE THE SACRED LANDS OF

ETHIOPIA

WHERE OUR HISTORY IS YOUR HISTORY

Explore Lalibela The Eighth Wonder of the World

Visit Gondar The Camelot of Africa

Experience Axum Home of The Ark of the Covenant

Email: nick@seeyouinethiopia.com Toll Free: 1-800-486-8359 • Call for Pastor’s Honorarium

Visit: www.seeyouinethiopia.com/religion

The Positive Community March 2010

is explored, along with the evolution of black lawyers and judges in the professional work place. The exhibition also acknowledges and celebrates legal practitioners who are pioneers in the field and principal players in major legal cases that changed the landscape of America—several of whom are from the greater Newark community. Among those featured in the exhibition are Attorneys David Dante Troutt, Junius W. Williams,Vivian Sanks-King, Paul Robeson, Percy Sutton and Barack Obama. As addenda to the exhibition two panel discussions were held. The first How Do We Navigate Race and Racism in the Age of Obama? was held on January 27. Moderated by Jacquelyn R. Rucker, Esq., panelists were Dr. S. E. Anderson, of the Brecht Forum Board of Directors and David Dante Troutt, Esq., Professor of Law at Rutgers University School of Law. The second panel discussion Dreams of our Fathers, on February 24, was a conversation about lawyers: their lives, the values that shaped their successes, and the struggles they overcame. Panelists included Judge Harold Fullilove Sr. and Judge Harold Fullilove Jr.; the noted retired New York State Administrative Law Judge Felix R. Neals and his son, Honorable Julien X. Neals, corporation counsel for the City of Newark; and Judge Randolph Jackson, author of How to Get a Fair Trial by Jury and Black People in the Bible and his daughter Tamara Britt, Esq. A lively discussion among the panelists and the audience revolved around many issues including parenting. Elders and youngsters on the panel agreed that a strict attention to upbringing is what contributed greatly to their success. Candace Kelly served as moderator. The exhibition and panel discussions were curated by Sandra West. The Main Newark Public Library is located at 5 Washington Street. For more information call (973) 733-7784 or visit www.npl.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Call about our special Mother’s Day brunch packages.

May 7–9 Celebrate Judith Jamison’s 20th anniversary as Artistic Director with these captivating works...

Friday & Sunday: Matthew Rushing’s Uptown Ronald K. Brown’s Dancing Spirit Alvin Ailey’s Revelations

Jamar Roberts Photo by Andrew Eccles

Saturday: Judith Jamison’s Hymn Judith Jamison’s Among Us (a new work co-commissioned by NJPAC) Alvin Ailey’s Revelations

JUDITH JAMISON ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Masazumi Chaya ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Upcoming events Sat, Mar 27 at 7:00 Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Company Explosive dance inspired by the African American experience

2009–2010 njpac.org

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Thu, May 6 at 7:30 Judith Jamison Legacies & Legends An intimate evening of moderated conversation

Money

B u s i ness , M o ne y & w o r k

BELOW: Gail Richards, Former President Bill Clinton and Sharon Joseph

Dynamic Duo Pins Success on Harlem Gail Richards’ and Sharon Joseph’s Harlem Lanes

hen most 18-year-old girls were obsessing about pom-poms and prom dresses, Gail Richards was finishing a Political Science degree at Long Island University. By twenty-three, she had earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Hunter College and was working toward a Ph.D. at NYU. To say that people had great expectations of her is an understatement, but not even she knew what form her greatness would take. She only knew that she wanted to help her community. Fast forward to 2010 and Harlem Lanes, Richards’ joint business venture with her niece, Sharon Joseph, is celebrating its fourth anniversary, but there were several years in between and getting here was not without its obstacles. “I think it was more difficult because we are

The Positive Community March 2010

women,” explained Richards. “Going out and finding funding, some people were surprised we were women… But once it was done and we were here, the community has been extremely supportive and there is a sense of pride that we have done this.” Richards and Joseph should be proud; they are the only African American female owners of a bowling alley in the entire country. That’s no small feat when you consider the fact that there are more than 6,000 bowling alleys in America, and more than 400 in New York. Did I mention that there had not been a bowling alley in Harlem since Lenox Lanes closed 30 years ago? Add to that the fact that neither woman had a background in entertainment (Richards was a clinical psychologist and Joseph was a financial advisor) and that their business www.thepositivecommunity.com

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2010

MAJOR EVENT SPONSORS, CORPORATE EXHIBITORS & VENDORS Don’t miss this great opportunity to be a part of the

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KEY PUBLIC EVENTS INCLUDE: SUNDAY, JULY 25th

“A Great Day In Harlem” Saluting Percy Sutton

THURSDAY, AUGUST 5th

NYC Economic & Business Development Conference

Urban Fashion Showcase

TUESDAY, AUGUST 10th

NYC Senior Citizens Day SATURDAY, AUGUST 14th

“Summer in the City” • College Fair and Expo • “Dancin’ in the Streets” • Urban Fashion Show • “Uptown Saturday Nite” Saluting Teddy Pendergrass

SUNDAY, AUGUST 15th

HARLEM DAY Children’s Festival •

A crowd shot of HARLEM DAY

Saluting “The Children of Haiti”

•NYC Health Village •Outdoor Auto Show •Tri-State Jr. Tennis Championships • 3 Stages of Live Entertainment SATURDAY, AUGUST 21st

The Family Health Walk-A-Thon & The Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run

The start of the Harlem 5k Run

HARLEM WEEK 2010 FROM

Jazz Great Ornette Coleman

created jobs in Harlem and helps keeps Harlem dollars in the community, and their accomplishment becomes even more impressive. To call Harlem Lanes a bowling alley doesn’t seem to do it justice. First off, one has to consider its location at at 2116 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. overlooking 125th Street. Harlem Lanes occupies two floors directly beneath the historic Alhambra Ballroom (which hosted legendary performers like Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday) and boasts 24 lanes, a lounge, a sports bar, a café and VIP rooms for various private parties and celebrations. “We do all kinds of events,” explained Richards. “We do children’s birthday parties, adult birthdays, bachelorette parties, corporate and not-for-profit events—there’s something for everyone. That was one of the reasons we chose to do a venue like this, so it could be all-inclusive. You can be two or 92 here and still have an enjoyable experience.” The Harlem Lances experience also includes other things you might not expect to find at your average bowling alley, such as an extensive menu that includes BBQ shrimp and spring rolls, karaoke, live DJs, jazz nights and help with homework for neighborhood kids. “We have an unofficial program for children within our community to encourage them to do well academically.” You can hear the pride in Richards’ voice as she talks about it. “I think that is tantamount to breathing for our children.” Neighborhood kids can earn free bowling and food privileges by maintaining passing grades in all of their subjects, and Richards checks report cards. “‘D’ is not a passing grade so they must have at least a ‘C’ or better. It’s gotten so popular that our staff has become involved in helping to tutor them.” She beamed when talking about one particular student; “Irving, he’s been with us all four years now and he came in last week so excited saying, ‘I passed my math SATs, Miss Gail!’” Despite all that Harlem Lanes offers and does in the community, Richards explained that business is being affected by the current economic downturn. “This economic climate has impacted us…I’m hoping that we can continue to keep our doors open and we really need everyone’s support because it is a struggle in this recession.” To remind people they are still there and the spectrum of activities and services they offer, Harlem Lanes will offer a community appreciation day in the coming weeks. “We’ll be celebrating our fourth anniversary, so you can come in and bowl for free! There’ll be activities like Guitar Hero and karaoke, and we’ll be saying ‘Thank you—thank you for having us here and for supporting us.’” When asked about future plans and if additional locations or franchises were on the horizon, Richards was both optimistic and resolute; “We are trying to stabilize things and make sure this is here and running well and will be here for the next thirty years. We want to be anchored.” For more information visit their website: www.harlemlanes.net or call 212-678-BOWL(2695)

JULY 25TH - AUGUST 25TH For sponsorship, marketing, sales, or corporate exhibit information please call Ms. T. Smalling or Mr. E. Causey at 212-862-8477

visit us at www.HARLEMWEEK.com

IS A PROUD MEDIA SPONSOR OF HARLEM WEEK 2010

March 2010 The Positive Community

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Fitness

Financial

Affordable financial solutions for everyday people BY LARRY NASH

#1 A Living Trust This is the first in a series of articles dealing with important and sensitive financial issues that affect a great majority of people these days. In the coming months, we’ll discuss the importance of good credit—building it, rebuilding it and restoring it; the use of pre-paid cards to stay out of debt; the very real danger and consequences of identity theft, and starting this month, the need for good estate planning e all know how difficult it can be to accept the fact that sooner or later, we are all going to die. What’s even more difficult is to actually sit down with family members and loved ones before it happens to make plans for the inevitable. No matter how rich or poor you may have been in life, almost everyone has something of value to leave behind, so decisions about who gets what and what goes where should be made before that fateful day. No matter how much or how little is left, you should take steps now to insure that it’s passed down to your loved ones according to your wishes.

Why you Should Consider a Living Trust Most people assume that if they have a will, everything will be taken care of. Unfortunately, that assumption usually is wrong. You see, wills are subject to probate. Probate comes from the Latin word, “probatum,” which means to try, test, or prove. Essentially, this means your heirs will have to go to probate court to prove that your will is legally binding. During that process, all your assets and liabilities become a matter of public record and the will can be challenged by just about anyone. We all remember the late model and actress Anna Nicole Smith challenging her billionaire, octogenarian husband, J. Howard Marshall’s will after his death. Not only did it cause his family a lot of pain and embarrassment to hear about their late father’s “honeymoon” antics with Miss Anna Nicole in open court; it also cost them millions of dollars in legal and attorneys fees. While a will is helpful in personal matters like naming a guardian for surviving minor children and should be a part of an estate plan, a Living Trust is the best way to insure that your tangible assets are protected and preserved for your loved ones.

The Positive Community March 2010

What It Is A Living Trust could have protected the Marshall family from being dragged through that distasteful situation and even if you’re not a billionaire, it can help protect your loved ones, too. With a Living Trust, you transfer your assets to a trust during your lifetime and once they are part of the trust, they are no longer subject to probate. Remember, probate court takes over all your assets when you die and settles all debts and claims first, no matter how frivolous, before finally distributing what’s left to the proper beneficiaries. Even if you were leaving a portion of your estate to your church, it would still have to go through probate first. Whether you’re rich or poor, whether you leave a million dollar estate or a few hundred dollars, probate court gets theirs first, before your family or loved ones. Your Are in Control Even though your property is now part of a trust, you as the Grantor or Trustee who created the trust, still retain full control over everything in it such as stocks, bonds, real estate, cars, personal effects, etc. A Living Trust is also known as a Revocable Trust because it may be changed, modified, or cancelled at any time during your lifetime. After your passing, it becomes irrevocable and the assets are distributed according to your exact wishes. Along with a Living Trust, a good estate plan should also include financial, and medical Power of Attorney documents that will allow you to decide now what you want done if you become incapacitated and incapable of making your own decisions later. Remember, when Judgment Day comes, you don’t have to be rich to protect and provide for your loved ones after you’re gone, just smart! Larry Nash is the President of Financial Fitness; an Illinois-based company that provides affordable financial solutions for everyday people, including Wills and Living Trusts. Their family of services can be accessed securely online from the comfort of your home by visiting, www.vrtmg.com/financialfitness. When needed, arrangements can also be made for a representative to come to your home, business, or church in person. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Community Welcomes Gregory J. Calliste New chief administrative officer of St. Luke’s

“T

his is unusual,” said Archbishop James Roberts of The Cathedral of St. Thomas. What he was referring to was an enthusiastic community reception held recently with a two-fold purpose: first, to introduce Gregory J. Calliste as the new chief administrative officer of St. Luke's Hospital, and secondly, to seek support for the new medical practice on 147th Street and Frederick Douglass Blvd. that St. Luke’s will open in April 2010. Marian Y. Scott, director of Community Health Education for St. Luke's and Roosevelt Hospitals, spearheaded the initiative to bring over thirty community leaders together for the event. Mr. Calliste talked about his focus on making St. Luke’s a model hospital and the “hospital of choice” that the Upper Manhattan communities would be proud to call their neighborhood hospital. He outlined his five main goals as excellent patient care, patient satisfaction, staff satisfaction, community satisfaction and fiscal viability. “To accomplish these goals,” he explained, “St. Luke’s is further developing partnerships with local community-based organizations —health, social, educational, religious and political.” The new St. Luke’s Medical Practice will operate Monday through Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm and provide services specifically focusing on reducing the incidence of diseases that plague the Central Harlem community such as diabetes, asthma, obesity, hypertension, and heart disease. “The community healthcare needs are constantly being evaluated and services will be added at this center as appropriate,” Calliste stated. Frank J. Cracolici, president, St. Luke's and Roosevelt Hospitals , explained that the hospital is focused

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By Verna Forde Photos: Seitu Oronde

Dr. Kris F. Erskine, Senior Pastor of Bethany Baptist Church and Gregory J. Calliste, Chief Administrative Officer of St. Luke’s Hospital

Archbishop James Roberts, Eileen Lovett, Gregory J. Calliste, Marian Scott, Director of Community Health Education and Frank Cracolici, President, St. Luke's and Roosevelt Hospitals

on meeting its community's primary care needs. “We are building new centers, like the one on 147th Street, and partnering with organizations such as Ryan Health Center or the Thelma Adair Health Center at 124th Street, because we understand that collaboration is the key to success in Harlem.”

Cracolici emphasized that St. Luke’s growing primary care network in Harlem will focus on an equally important issue: providing care with dignity and respect for cultural diversity. “We will look for community feedback on this and all issues,” he said. “It is what this community deserves.”

March 2010 The Positive Community

Photo: LaRue List

NJ Governor Honors Students

n recognition of Black History Month, the New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Lt. Govenor Kim Guadagno invited several students from around the State to honor them for their accomplishments in literary assignments in school. The Governor encouraged the students to continue their progress in writing and applauded the parents, teachers, and community leaders whose support helped make their achievements possible. Each student received a Certificate of Achievement and enjoyed the added surprise of being given a guided tour of the Governor's personal office by the Governor himself.

Recipes for a Long & Spirit-Filled Life

106

-year-old Sarah Carter Brown and her great niece, Caryl Lucas, author of Aunt Sarah's Recipes for a Long & Spirit-Filled Life, receive a resolution and flowers from Walter Bryant, chief of staff for Newark Council President Mildred Crump, and Odessa Prindle, the councilwoman’s aide. Lucas and Carter discussed their inspirational book during the Newark Public Library's recent Black History Month program before a standing room only crowd. Aunt Sarah’s Recipes is available at www.caryllucas.com On March 20, Aunt Sarah will visit the Passaic Public Library from 1pm to 4pm for a Women's History Month celebration and book signing.

A strong community is our greatest asset. We believe communities are built on the goodwill and energy of the people who belong to them. That’s why we’re proud to support The Positive Community. To find out how we can help you, call our Millburn Wealth Management office at 973-218-2204.

The Positive Community March 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

100 Black Men Gala Focus: Restoring Health & Building Bridges ABOVE: Mark Wager, president of Empire BlueCross Blue Shield.

Paul Williams, executive director, Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and Leslie Wyche, the unofficial Mayor of Harlem Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad

ver 300 people were in attendance at the 30th Annual Benefit Gala of the One Hundred Black Men, Inc. of New York City (OHBM), which was held at the New York Hilton on February 25. In keeping with the organization’ s focus on the health issues of the African American community, three leaders in health care were honored. They are Dr. John Agwunobi, senior vice president of Walmart Health & Wellness; Dr. Kenneth Olden, founding dean of the CUNY School of Public Health and Mark Wager, president of Empire BlueCross Blue Shield. Errol Pierre was honored as Mentor of the Year. Errol is sales manager at Empire BlueCross BlueShield (the youngest and first African American)and a part-time student at New York University, studying for a master’s degree in Health Management & Policy. He mentors students as part of Fordham University Alumni mentoring program as well as OHBM’s Eagle Academy charter school.

William and Tabitha Brown of William Brown Assoc.

Jenel Byrd with Philip Banks, president, OHBM

Preston Wilkins Martin & Rodriguez Manhattan Office 65 Broadway, Suite 508 New York, New York 10006 Phone:(212) 809-0000 Fax: (212) 809-4753 Long Island Office 55 Post Avenue Westbury, New York 11590 Phone:(516) 429-6149 Fax: (212) 898-9034

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.

New Jersey Office 76 South Orange Avenue, Suite 300 South Orange, New Jersey 07079 Phone:(973) 763-0399 Fax: (973) 763-4077

Personal Injury • Criminal Litigation • Employment Law • Wills & Estates • Real Estate Representing Not for Profits and Small Businesses

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March 2010 The Positive Community

Making a Difference for Minority Business NMSDC's Harriet Michel By R.L. Witter

artin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: what are you doing for others?” Harriet Michel could go on for quite a while telling you just that, but she won’t. Instead, she’s more apt to tell you what still needs to be done and offer to brainstorm how the two of you can make a difference. Mrs. Michel is nothing if she’s not humble. While she will acknowledge the importance of the work she does, she simply sees it as having the privilege of doing something meaningful that she enjoys. Michel is the president of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and has held the position for more than 20 years. Who better to tell us more about the organization and what it does? “The NMSDC is almost 40 years old… It came out of the Chicago race riots and corporations wanted to show good faith. They wanted to show the black community—and at that time it was only the black community—they cared and wanted to integrate them into their corporations,” she explained. “From that has grown a very large national and international organization that has over 3,000 corporations and other buying organizations such as universities, transit authorities, hospitals and others,” she added. There are also more than 17,000 certified minority suppliers of various sizes in various lines of business and over the past three years, corporate buyers have procured more than $100 billion in goods and services from thousands of minority-owned businesses. While some say that November 2008 ushered in the beginning of “post-racial America” and that the need for such organizations and programs like Affirmative Action has waned, Michel firmly disagrees. “We take affirmative steps to encourage corporations to utilize minority suppliers; we take affirmative steps with minority suppliers to better position themselves so they are better able to get contracts from corporations… But the negative context of Affirmative Action that ‘these people are getting contracts because they are a minority’—nothing could be further from the truth. These minority businesses are meeting the standards, certifications and conditions that any other supplier who is providing products and services for major corporations must meet.” Over the years the NMSDC has grown, as has its breadth and reach. With current operations in 37 U.S. cities, Canada, England, China and Australia and South Africa soon to be on

The Positive Community March 2010

board, the NMSDC has provided employment for and changed the course of thousands of minority-owned businesses. With expansion also came greater inclusion, which opened the doors for Asian American, Native American and Hispanic American minority-owned businesses as well. Said Michel, “If you’re not a corporate procurement person or a minority businessperson that is trying to sell to a corporation you wouldn’t even know that an organization of this size and this influence even exists, so it’s very important to me that people understand that while they may not know of us, the Chryslers, Fords, Xeroxes, Coca Colas and IBMs of the world are part of our organization and very much support what we do.” Prior to joining the NMSDC, Michel—who holds degrees from Juniata College in both Criminal Justice and Sociology— held several other high-profile positions, such as Program Officer for the National Scholarship Service and executive director of the New York Foundation, which made her the first African American woman to head a major foundation. She also served as president of the New York Urban League, director of the Department of Labor’s Office of Community Youth Empowerment Programs/ CETA, and established the Women Against Crime Foundation at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Now, after more than 20 years with the NMSDC, Michel is looking forward to exploring a new chapter in her life and has announced her retirement. She www.thepositivecommunity.com

While she will acknowledge the importance of the work she does, she simply sees it as having the privilege of doing something meaningful that she enjoys.

Mayor Cory A. Booker, The Newark Municipal Council The Office of Neighborhood Engagement and the African Commission presents:

had originally planned to retire in January 2009, but reconsidered and extended her tenure through June 30, 2010. Explained Michel, “I knew that 20 years seemed like a good time to go out the door, but as the economy tanked and since our entire revenue comes from corporate dues and I am so highly identified with the organization, the board felt that my leaving at a time when corporations were probably looking for excuses to back off…wouldn’t be a good time for new leadership to be tested.” The board was right, as Michel acknowledged, “In 2009 when a lot of other notfor-profits hit a very rocky period, we had a very strong year.” Not one to “retire on the job,” Michel began 2010 by having her photo on the inside cover of a February Walgreen’s coupon book, in celebration of Black History Month. The books kicked off the national chain’s “Community Corner” initiative by highlighting products made by minority-owned businesses and were available at more than 7,000 stores across the country. “Fifty years ago, Walgreen’s was one of those lunch counters at which the early civil rights students sat-in. And of all those other companies [involved in the sit-ins] like Kresge’s and Woolworth’s, Walgreen’s is the only chain that still exists. So 50 years later, here they are with a special promotion about their black products. I just think the irony in that shouldn’t be missed.” Despite her myriad accomplishments and accolades, Michel did not hesitate when asked what she felt was her greatest contribution thus far. “First, my children—I’m very proud of my sons. They are loving and just men who care about people.” Beyond her family, Michel cites her life of service as the other achievement of which she is most proud. “Every job I’ve ever held throughout my career has focused on issues of equity, parity and justice for people of color—every job I’ve ever held. That I’ve been able to move the needle in some small way so that people of color—particularly African Americans—are able to benefit from what I’ve done… I’m very proud of that.” Looking toward her future and the idea of retirement, Michel shows no signs of slowing down. “My brain is far too active and my body is in good enough shape that I’m not interested in sitting at home,” she remarked. “My passion and my heart is in Haiti and with what is going on in Haiti now, I could end up working on economic development projects—long-term solutions that empower people so they don’t have to line up three times a day with a cup in their hand.” In the meantime, Michel plans to enjoy her family, her husband Yves, her sons Gregory and Christopher and their wives and children. “I’m waiting for something to come to me that sounds interesting and as long as it doesn’t take me totally away from my granddaughters, I’d be willing to consider it.”

Harriet Michel Jump

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 201 0 The Positive Community March 2010 The Positive Community

Education

T e a c h i ng , L e a r n i ng , M a k i ng a D i ffe r ence

Photos: Vincent Bryant

Dr. Clement Alexander Price, professor of History and director of the Rutgers Institute on Ethnicity, Culture, and the Modern Experience at Rutgers University.

Laboring in the Vineyard: Scholarship and Citizenship

Rutgers University hosts 30th Anniversary of the Marion Thompson Wright Lecture Series

n this special two-day celebration (February 19h and 20th) of the thirtieth anniversary of the Marion Thompson Wright Lecture Series, Rutgers University has invited back previous Marion Thompson Wright Lecturers from the past thirty years to assemble and speak to the 2010 theme, Laboring in the Vineyard: Scholarship and Citizenship. The lecture series was co-founded in 1981 by Dr. Clement Alexander Price, professor of History and director of the Rutgers Institute on Ethnicity, Culture, and the Modern Experience at Rutgers University and Giles R. Wright, from the New Jersey Historical Commission. Over the past 28 years, the conference has drawn thousands of people to the

L–R: Lynn Mcfarland, Jeannine LaRue, Dr. Price and Micheline Davis

The Positive Community March 2010

Rutgers-Newark campus in observance of Black History Month, and has attracted some of the nation’s foremost scholars and humanists who are experts in the field of African and African American history and culture. One of the oldest and most prestigious events of its kind, the MTW lecture series offers a forum for scholars and non-academicians to share their thoughts and exchange ideas and sustains wide public interest in history, the humanities and life-long learning. The annual conference was named for East Orange native Dr. Marion Thompson Wright, a pioneer in African American historiography and race relations in New Jersey, who served for many years on the faculty of Howard University. An honors graduate of

Newark’s Barringer High School and Columbia University’s Teachers College Class of 1938, she was the first professionally trained woman historian in the United States. Among the esteemed Lecturers were Annette Gordon-Reed, Rutgers University-Newark and New York Law School and author of Writing the Lives of the Enslaved: Monticello and the American Imagination; Eric Foner, Columbia University; James Oliver Horton, George Washington University; Lonnie Bunch, National Museum of African American History and Culture; Nell Painter, Princeton University and Bernice Johnson Reagon, National Museum of American History,Smithsonian Institution and American University. For more information visit http://www. ethnicity.rutgers.edu. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Cornel West at Rutgers

ace and Democracy in the Age of Obama was the subject of a lecture and discussion featuring Dr. Cornel West at Rutgers University on February 24. The event was in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the creation of Rutgers’ Africana Studies Department. One of America's most provocative public intellectuals, Cornel West has been a champion for racial justice since childhood. His writing, speaking, and teaching weave together the traditions of the black Baptist Church, progressive politics, and jazz. The New York Times has praised his "ferocious moral vision." Currently the Class of 1943 Professor at Princeton University, Dr. West burst onto the national scene in 1993 with his bestselling book, Race Matters, a searing analysis of racism in American democracy. Race Matters has become a contemporary classic, selling more than half a million copies to date. In West’s long awaited life story, BROTHER WEST: Living and Loving Out Loud, he offers a compelling exploration of his heart behind the human mind. Themes include Faith, Family, Philosophy, Love and Service. Cornel West has published 19 other books and has edited 13 texts. West also offers commentary weekly on The Tavis Smiley Show from PRI (Public Radio International). He was an influential force in developing the storyline for the popular Matrix movie trilogy and has served as its official spokesperson, as well as playing a recurring role in the final two films. Dr. West graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and has a Ph.D. from Princeton. In introducing him, Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, pastor of Bethany Baptist in Newark and chair of Rutgers Board of Governors said of West “…he has elected to infuse liberating ideas—in print and voice— for the purpose of making change in the human heart.” In his speech, a tour-de-force of emotions, gyrations, and deep intellectual concepts on subjects as varied as pop culture, the blues and the bible, West always returned to his constant theme inviting and challenging his audience to live a life seeking and giving love and justice. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dr. Cornel West with Dr. Richard L. McCormick, president, Rutgers University Photos: LaRueList

Rev. Dr. M. William Howard pastor of Bethany Baptist in Newark and chair of Rutgers Board of Governors

March 2010 The Positive Community

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“As an eight-time Emmy Award winner, I am extremely proud of my accomplishments in music. But my success wasn’t complete without a high school diploma. Bergen Community College’s GED Program helped make this dream a reality.” Hunter Hayes GED Graduate, Saxophonist and Vocalist Bergen Community College

Success Isn’t Complete Without an Education. Hunter Hayes chose to pursue his passion for music over graduating from high school. More than forty years later, Mr. Hayes, a saxophonist and vocalist, has performed with music artists such as Kool & the Gang and earned eight Emmy Awards for writing the theme song to the television show “Due Process,” but he was determined to receive a high school diploma. Mr. Hayes enrolled in classes at Bergen Community College’s GED Program at the Philip J. Ciarco Jr. Learning Center in Hackensack. He was honored as an inspirational graduate and received his diploma at the College’s GED graduation ceremony in February. As a role model for students, Mr. Hayes believes dreams do come true, especially when you pursue them with an education.

www.bergen.edu

H A C K E N S A C K

P A R A M U S

M E A D O W L A N D S

Photos: Vincent Bryant

Board of Trustees: L-R: David Harris, Esq., Lowenstein Sandler PC, Roseland, NJ; Dr. Thomas A. Bryant, Ph. D., Visiting Professor, The Newark School of Theology; Rev. Erik Soldwedel, Chaplain's Dept., Christ Hospital, Jersey City, NJ; Board Chair, Mr. Geoffrey Brooks, Managing Director, BNY-Mellon Bank, New York, NY; The Rev. Lauren Ackland, M.Div., Rector, Grace Church, Madison, NJ;The Rev. Douglas Bendall, Ph.D., President, The Newark School of Theology; Adrian A. Council, Sr., Publisher, The Positive Community, Montclair, NJ.

Planning retreat at Grace Episcopal Church, Newark. Not present: Rev. Janyce Jackson, Rev. Dr. Martin Oguike, Ms. Pamela Parker McGee, Rev. Diane Rhodes and Dr. Mark Seglin

By The Rev. R. Douglas Bendall, Ph.D

Newark School of Theology Advancing The Second Reconstruction

nspired by the theology and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and The Civil Rights Movement, The Newark School of Theology has been offering seminary level classes in Newark since 1997 to inner-city ministers, church leaders, and laypersons. Our goal is to provide the foundations in Bible, theology, and counseling that are required for effective urban ministry to persons who are unlikely to matriculate at more traditional schools of theology. Dr. King and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, an honorary member of the Board, are the icons that guide the work and ethos of NST. Our work has shown us that there are a number of residents in Newark and nearby cities who have the ability and desire to complete their undergraduate education but lack the means and opportunity to do so. The Board, therefore, has established the goal of developing The Newark School of Theology into a four year liberal arts college of theology. Our plan is ambitious. We seek to provide our students with intellectual and spiritual foundations for responsible citizenship and economic prosperity by offering a balanced liberal arts education. The Civil Rights Movement has been described as the Second Reconstruction. The defeat of the Jim Crow apartheid system that was established following the withdrawal of Federal troops in the South in 1877 has re-ignited African American hopes for full equality. Yet where are we as a community at this point in time? Despite the election of the first African American president and the emergence of powerful Black leaders at every level of government, far too many African Americans still suffer from lack of educational opportunity, poverty,

www.thepositivecommunity.com

and poor quality of life. We have a moral imperative to reach out to our brothers and sisters in urban communities who have been left behind in the advances that many African Americans have made as a result of the struggle for civil rights. It is generally recognized by historians that the failure to distribute land to the ex-slaves was the leading cause of the failure of Reconstruction in the South. Lack of economic security led to the reversal of the newly won political rights of black citizens. We are faced with a similar circumstance. There must be an economic base for African Americans in order to realize the hopes for full equality that the NAACP and the Civil Rights Movement advanced. President Obama has shown the way towards the realization of these hopes, in his case a Harvard education with straight A’s. It is of the first importance that, as we live and work in Newark, East Orange, Irvington, and other urban communities, we recognize that we are in the presence of persons who, given the opportunity, are able to become the teachers, business leaders, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, effective ministers, and other professionals that our community needs. Recognizing the talent and untapped intellectual potential that is present in Newark and nearby communities, The Newark School of Theology is committed to offering a high quality liberal arts education at an affordable price to all--but especially to those who have been left behind in our nation’s advance toward full equality for all its citizens. The Newark School of Theology is located at Two Park Place, Newark, NJ March 2010 The Positive Community

One Ward - One Family The West Ward Collective Hosts Its 2nd Annual Parent Academy

he West Ward Collective (WWC) is sponsoring its 2 Annual Parent Academy on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at West Side High School from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. The WWC was founded by Ronald C. Rice to assist citizens, agencies and businesses in the West Ward to improve the quality of life.

The Parent Academy is FREE for Newark residents and conducted in partnership with the Newark Public Schools’ West Region. It is designed to increase parental involvement. Special keynote addresses will be conducted for mothers and fathers separately, followed by concurrent workshops. The US Census will make a special Kick-Off Census 2010 presentation. Fathers Make A Difference Panelist include Principal Baruti Kafele (Author, Motivating Black Boys To Do Well In School and Life), Junius Williams (Director of the Abbott Leadership institute, Lavarr Young, Director of Fathers Now, and Founder Ronald C. Rice. (Panel Moderator) Raising Children In Turbulent Time s– A group discussion will be conducted by the Raising Him Alone Campaign, a national organization focused on creating learning communities for single women raising male children. The speakers include Cassandra Mack (Author, Single Mother’s Little Book of Wisdom and Raising Him Alone Campaign Contributor), Kumari Davis, Certified Social Worker, and Wilhemina Holder (Abbott Institute and Local Newark Community Activist) and Darlene Reynolds (WWC Director and Moderator). Concurrent Workshops –parents attend based on their particular interests:  Improving Reading And Writing In Grades K-5  Fixing Family Finances  Teaching African History At Home  Keeping Your Child Safe From Gangs  Preparing Youth For College  How To Cook And Eat To Live: Preparing Healthy Meals  Understanding Your Child’s Personality Type  Maximizing Potential of Special Needs Children  Don’t Get Mad Get Paid: Child Support Enforcement Meal & A Movie - A special partnership with the US Census, Wells Fargo Bank, Applebees Restaurant and Newark Screens Theater provides vouchers for lunch and a movie for the first 200 parents. Registration forms are available at any Newark Public School’s Parent Liaison office or the West Ward Collective. Call The West Ward Collective at (973) 732-3220, Matt Stevens Education Coordinator, for more information.

L–R:Saundra Parks, The Daily Blossom, Mrs. Alma Rangel, Hasani Pratts, Carla Harris, Rosanna Troiano, Dr. Marcella Maxwell Ph.D and Sasha Greene

Ladies who Lunch

Photos: Margot Jordan

Support American Heart Association

now could not keep the ladies (and a few gents) away from the recent New York City Go Red For Women Luncheon. Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s national movement to make women aware of their risk for heart disease. The luncheon celebrates New York City’s women of influence joining together to raise awareness and funds to support education and research programs specifically targeted to address heart disease and stroke in women— their #1 and #3 killers. The luncheon, at the Waldrof Astoria, kicked off with a leadership discussion moderated by Dr. Mary Ann McLaughlin, Board President of American Heart Assoc. NYC. and Prof. of Cardiology Mount Sinai Medical Center. Pearls of wisdom flowed from Carla Harris, managing director of Morgan Stanley; Martine Reardon executive VP of Marketing, Macy’s; Deborah C. Wright, chairman/CEO of Carver Bancorp and Sylvia Nelson Paul, Customer Marketing manager at Merck. Early birds walked away from this enlightening session with autographed copies of Carla Harris’ book Expect To Win. Attendees enjoyed a keynote speech by Go Red Ambassador Amy Shorin Silverstein. A partner with the American Heart Association in its GO Red www.thepositivecommunity.com

campaign for six years, Macy’s this year created an exclusive “Little Red Dress” design to raise money for the cause. A portion of the $69 retail cost of the dress will go to the American Heart Association. The dress will be available in Macy’s until March 21, 2010.

L–R: Sylvia Nelson Paul, Customer Marketing Manager, Merck; Deborah C. Wright, chairman & CEO of Carver Bancorp; Carla Harris, Managing Director of Morgan Stanley; and Dr. Mary Ann McLaughlin, Board President of American Heart Assoc. NYC., Professor, Cardiology Mount Sinai Medical Center

Nyack College Announces the BS in Nursing Starting Fall 2010 Nyack College is academically excellent, globally engaged, intentionally diverse, personally transforming and socially relevant.

Call:

Apply online:

800.336.9225 www.nyack.edu Nyack, NY March 2010 The Positive Community

In Her Own Words Michelle Paterson

By Glenda Codogan

he only certain outcome from the whirlwind that is sweeping the Governor’s Mansion in Albany, is that David Paterson will not be seeking reelection as the state’s Chief Executive. But when the dust finally settles at the end of his term, his wife, Michelle Paige Paterson, is hoping that history will be kind to him and people will see that he was a person who “made hard decisions at a hard time.” Mrs. Paterson told The Positive Community in a wide-ranging one-on-one interview, “My wish is that David’s legacy will be that he kept this state going strong and made hard choices when no one else would. That’s the thing I want people to remember.”

The Positive Community March 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

coverstory “Being First Lady is not an experience that many people get to have,” she remarked. “In this position, you get to meet a lot of wonderful people and you also have an opportunity to do something good for the community. Like the proverbial ‘good woman behind every good man,’ Mrs. Paterson has extended her towering mother’s arms to shelter the entire family through what has been a rocky ride as a first family. She refuses to be bitter about what some say is a media assassination of her husband. However, she does get a little vinegary about what she says are the public misconceptions about the man she has known for the past 28 years. “People always say that Dave is a nice guy. But they say it as though there is something wrong with that. Being a nice guy does not mean that you are not strong or that you do not know what’s going on,” she explained. “What I know is that David has always been a good legislator and a good governor. In fact, he is a strong governor,” she added. She further described the person she knows as David Paterson. “David is one of the smartest people I know,” she asserted. ”He’s very sensitive and cares a great deal about other people. Throughout his career he has really tried to help other people, which has not always been a good thing for him. So really, for me, the hardest thing is to see how wrong the press has been in portraying my husband.” Michelle and David were married in 1992, ten years after they first met on a double date at a Temptations concert. At the time of their marriage, Governor Paterson was just beginning his life in elected politics as a State Senator. In 2008, they were tossed onto the center stage of New York politics when David ascended as Governor with the mid-term resignation of Eliot Spitzer. Mrs. Paterson views these circumstances through biblically tinted lenses. “I often tell people that neither David nor I asked to be in this spot,” she remarked. “But for some reason, we were chosen to be here. We may not know what that reason is right now but I am confident that God will show us at some point. And we will also know what we are supposed to learn. I really do believe that, and that gives me strength.” A career health professional and self professed life-long health enthusiast, it was only natural that as First Lady, Mrs. Paterson gravitated toward health issues for her personal platform. In this regard, she envisioned a healthier New York and launched the “Healthy Steps to Albany” program, but not before conquering the challenge of making the first family’s home a healthy one. “I believe that all things should be done in moderation,” she said of her family’s eating habits. “So it’s not that I tell my family that we can never have a slice of pizza, but we focus on portion sizes and eating fresh fruits and vegetables.” However, two items that will not be found on the Paterson’s grocery list are sodas and white bread. “When I first met David, he drank a lot of soda. But, it is not something that I give to our two children and over the years he, too, has completely weaned himself off this,” Mrs. Paterson proudly said. Despite her full and active schedule as a director at a managed care program on Wall Street and being First Lady, Mrs. Paterson still finds www.thepositivecommunity.com

time to enjoy the pleasures of being a wife and mother by preparing dinner for her family on weekends. “Whenever I have the time (she does not enjoy cooking in a rush), I like cooking David’s favorite meal of collard greens, cabbage, macaroni and cheese and baked chicken.” Add to that her own favorite of turkey and stuffing and every weekend could be Thanksgiving dinner at the Governor’s Mansion. On March 1, Mrs. Paterson and her team kicked-off the 2010 edition of Healthy Steps to Albany. This program is a challenge to 6th 7th and 8th Graders in the state and is an effort to combat childhood obesity. “At one point I worked at a community hospital in Harlem and it was there that I first began to see and understand childhood obesity,” she explained. “I was hearing about five and sixyear-old kids who were developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. That concerned me.” Determined to launch a grassroots response to the epidemic, Mrs. Paterson put together a challenge to get kids walking. The program started with 3,000 kids in Harlem who were given pedometers and encouraged to count their steps. The class with the highest amount of collective steps in six weeks gained a free trip to Albany, lunch at the Executive Mansion and a visit to an organic farm. The following year, the program was extended statewide and involved 26,000 kids from the upstate region including Rochester, Albany and Buffalo. This year, more than 362,000 middle school students from the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island, Westchester and Rockland County are eligible for the challenge. As an historic First Lady, Michelle Paterson has taken the good with the bad. “Being First Lady is not an experience that many people get to have,” she remarked. “In this position, you get to meet a lot of wonderful people and you also have an opportunity to do something good for the community. In this regard, it has been a good experience for me. But because I am such a private person, the other parts have always been a struggle.” Regarding her own legacy Mrs. Paterson said, “I want to be remembered as the First Lady who tried to do something good and make a difference in the lives of our children.” No one knows for sure when the mighty wind of Albany will settle on the Paterson administration. But during the past two and one half years, New Yorkers have seen Michelle Paige Paterson seize the day and boldly step into the class of women that Maya Angelou describes as the Phenomenal Woman. There are many who are hoping that another verse from the poet’s pen will ring true for the Patersons: You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise. March 2010 The Positive Community

CHURCH NIGHT NETS VS. PISTONS TH FRIDAY, MARCH 26 @ 8:00 PM SAVE on tickets to see the Match-up of Brook Lopez, Devin Harris, & the NETS as they battle Ben Gordon & the Detroit Pistons. There will be a post game concert featuring Gospel recording artist Tye Tribbett, immediately following the game.

Receive a Nets Drawstring Bag with every ticket purchased!

For more information or to order tickets contact: Rick Lottermann@ 201-635-3128 or Email rlottermann@njnets.com Box Office Price $175.00 $115.00 $100.00 $66.00 $40.00

Your Price $89.50 $59.50 $52.00 $30.00 $22.00

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Location Lower Level Center Court Lower Level Side Court Lower Level Corners Second Level Centers Rows 1-15

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-------------------------------TEAR OFF FORM BELOW AND MAIL OR FAX IN YOUR ORDER--------------------------Name ________________________________________________________________ Group _______________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________ City __________________________________State______________ Zip___________ Day Phone ____________________________________________________________ E-mail Address_________________________________________________________ CC ___________#__________________________________ Exp ________________ Signature ______________________________________________ Date ___________ Make check or money order payable to: Nets Basketball Game Nets vs. Pistons

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Mail to: Nets Basketball Attn: Rick Lottermann 390 Murray Hill Parkway East Rutherford, NJ 07073 OR Fax to: 201-635-3300 Total Amount Due

Tickets are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are subject to availability. No refunds or exchanges on tickets purchased. Tickets and Nets Drawstring Bags will be mailed to the address provided above. All games are played at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford NJ.

For more information or to order tickets contact: Rick Lottermann @ 201-635-3128 or e-mail rlottermann@njnets.com

Culture M u s i c , A r t & L i te r a t u r e

A Generational Shift at NAACP

By Jean Nash Wells Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad

Roslyn M. Brock, Chair, NAACP Board

Benjamin Todd Jealous, president & CEO NAACP

Julian Bond, retiring Chairman

Hasel Dukes, president, NY State chapter NAACP

Roslyn Brock with her mother Eladies Sampson and brother Sgt. Ronald Glover Newark PD

At 44, Roslyn Brock Is Youngest Board Chair

pon her election at their annual meeting at the New York Hilton on February 20, Roslyn Brock, 44, became the youngest woman to serve as Chair of the NAACP’s Board of Directors. Over the past 25 years she has served the NAACP in several capacities including youth board member, Youth and College State Conference president, board member, and vice chair to the Board of Directors. Brock also created the annual NAACP Leadership 500 Summit, and has served as Chair of the Board Convention Planning Committee. “As the NAACP ushers in a new generation, it is a great honor to be elected Chairman of the Board of this esteemed Association,” said Brock. “We are blessed with the opportunity to lead the fight for civil and human rights into another century, and I am honored to help the NAACP issue the clarion call while ensuring the future legacy of this great organization.” “We’re looking at a generational shift in our communities,” continued Brock. “We have a 48-year-old President in the White House, an NAACP President who was 35 at the time of his election, and a 44-year-old Board Chair. The wisdom of those who stood the test of time got us to this point, and the youth will lead the future success of our movement.”

Julian Bond, age 70, declared his retirement as Chairman for the past 10 years last August making way for Brock’s candicacy, which he heartily endorsed. “The time has come for me to step down as Chairman of the Board and I cannot think of a better person to pass the torch to than Roslyn M. Brock. Ms. Brock understands first-hand how important youth are to the success of the NAACP. She was introduced to the NAACP 25 years ago when she served the NAACP as a youth board member and Youth and College Division State Conference President. She represents the next generation of civil rights leaders,” said NAACP Chairman Emeritus Julian Bond at the press conference announcing Ms. Brock’s election. “Today we have elected the youngest Chairman in the history of the NAACP. This historic election, at the beginning of our second century marks a generational shift in the civil and human rights movement. Ms. Brock is a fierce advocate for social justice, who is squarely focused on addressing the crises of today and winning the victories of tomorrow, said NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Todd Jealous, who is 37. “I am proud to be standing with Roslyn M. Brock as the new Chairman of the NAACP Board, and I thank Julian Bond for his twelve years of service.” Brock and Jealous are the youngest ever Continued on page 46

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March 2010 The Positive Community

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BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

The Positive Community March 2010

t 7:33pm, I was rushing across the Marine Bridge trying to make it to the concert of a lifetime, which would start at 8:00 pm. It was so long since I’d been to Brooklyn College that I couldn’t remember how much longer it was going to take me to get there and as I sped along, I prayed not to hit any pedestrians! I didn’t want to be tardy for this Holy Ghost party, so I was thankful to make it on time. Upon entering the Walt Whitman Theater, I spotted a couple of members from my church who came out to hang, too. Finally in my seat at 7:56 pm, I glanced at my surroundings to make sure everything looked alright... Let’s see, three standing microphones in the center, two background mics on the left side, a mic next to the Roland keyboard and the Hammond B organ because you know Ms. Twinkie never leaves home without it! People of every age are excited about the sisters who belted out favorites like “You Brought the Sunshine,” “Name It Claim It” and the original praise song, “Hallelujah.” At 8:33, when I didn’t think I could wait any longer, the lights dimmed and it was time … I was excited because at long last, my aunties (well, in my head) took the stage! Jackie, Dorinda and Karen took their positions while Dorinda’s daughter, Nikkia, assisted Twinkie to her seat at the keyboard and they got it started with “Blessed Life.” The Clark Sisters! These women are ageless, they all look great—hair tight, faces beat (that means their make-up was flawless) and dressed up in their various

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shades of brown. As I peeked over to look at the background singers, I was wondering, ‘Is that…?’ And sho ‘nough, Karen introduced Jackie’s daughter, Angela, and Karen’s daughter, KiKi (who has lost a significant amount of weight and looks fabulous herself). Ms. Jackie began singing “I’ve got an angel watching over me, keeping me from all hurt, harm, and danger…” Dorinda stopped the music to minister and reminded us that we are protected. She quoted the 23rd Psalm, “Yea though I walk through the valley…” and yup, she went in and preached up in that theater! I can recall, meeting Dorinda Clark-Cole when she came to Queens to preach and let me tell you, she is an anointed vessel of God and she let God have His way that night! Soon, the saints were shouting and dancing—it was on! As Karen continued to minister, they went into their 2008 Grammy Award- winning song, “Blessed and Highly Favored.” In awe, tears filled my eyes as Ms. Karen reminded us that when you think you’ve got it bad, there is always someone worse off , then prayed for the people in Haiti. The next tune, “I Tried Him and I Know Him,” with the unmistakably wonderful influence of “Mama,” Dr. Mattie Moss-Clark, gave the next generation, Ms. Kiki and Ms. Angela, a chance to showcase their gifts and represent the younger Clark family members. Next up was

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my jam, “Looking to Get There (Heaven)!” “Oh what a day it will be/Savior’s face I’ll see/Walk the streets of gold/Homeland I’ve been told/Made up in my mind/Nobody turn me around/Heaven is the place where I wanna’ be and I wanna’ see everything he has prepared for me/Looking to get there!” Yeah, that was it for me –I was jamming! As if I could stand any more, the ladies then transformed into an all girl band with Karen on drums, Dorinda on keyboards, Jackie was on the side praying in the spirit and Twinkie worked that Hammond organ— She shut it down, tore it up and killed it! Karen mesmerized us with her echo style singing on “Is My Living in Vain” and on “You Brought the Sunshine,” Ms. Jackie—who is well into her sixties— danced the crisscross like she was a teenager—You go girl! “Praise Him/ Hallelujah” ended the concert and everyone left feeling full of the Holy Spirit and that they had a great time. Even if you have all the CDs of these lovely ladies and know every word of their songs, nothing compares to seeing The Clark Sisters live and alive! The power that filled the stage was a palpable. The beauty in ministry of these ladies is that they let God’s Glory take center stage and that made it a wonderful evening. Thank you!

March 2010 The Positive Community

Liberation

by the Veil Rev. Julius R. Scruggs

Nurah Amat’ullah

osalie Ferguson arrived in the United States in 1986 with $200 in her pocket and a dream in her heart. She also had two parallel goals: to expand her educational opportunities and make a better life for the 3-year-old daughter she left behind in her native Trinidad & Tobago. She accomplished both goals in record time and along the way she discovered a new world—she embraced Islam and became Nurah Amat’ullah. In a move that was uncharacteristic of her former personhood, Amat’ullah made the choice to wear the traditional Islamic veil. “Contrary to what a lot of people believe, the hijab is not a statement of religiosity or a symbol of oppression,” she said. ”In fact, some of the most devout, spiritually connected and grounded Muslim women I know do not wear the hijab. But what the hijab did for me is to shift my conversation with the world in general and with men in particular,” she explained. “It gave me ownership of my body in a way that I could choose with whom and how I wanted to share it. It was very empowering and liberating.” W.E.B. Dubois popularized the concept of ‘double consciousness,’ but in Amat’ullah’s case as a black, Caribbean-born, Muslim woman, she lives in a world of triple consciousness. But even in the face of constant challenges within the Islamic community and externally, Amat’ullah remains fearless in her quest to be what some say is impossible – a liberated veiled Muslim woman. “As a Muslim woman of African decent, I have been catching hell long before 9/11,” she says. ”In fact, the September 11 attack that redefined Islam in America didn’t alter the daily struggles in my life. What it meant is that the space of marginalization in which I have lived for so long became more crowded. Of course, I still get patted down at the airport every time I travel, but not more than I have grown accustomed to.”

The Positive Community March 2010

A Muslim Woman's Journey of Self Discovery By Glenda Cadogan An Archival Librarian at the Schomburg Library in Harlem, Amat’ullah reinvented herself in 1997 when she founded the Muslim Women’s Institute for Research and Development (MWIRD), a multi-service, faith-based non-profit organization. According to Amat’ullah, MWIRD was born as a result of an untimely combination of divorce and empty nest syndrome. She explained: “My daughter, Daniella—who by now had joined me in the United States—was leaving home at the same time that I was getting divorced. Suddenly I was alone and with lots of time on my hands.” Amat’ullah began spending some of that time at a Mosque in the Bronx which had a mushrooming West African population. “There was little to no support system for these new immigrants, especially the women who had the double dilemma of economic hardship and illiteracy,” she said. “To feed their families, they were going to the food pantries in the area but because they could not read English, were taking home food that was outside of the Islamic diet.” Amat’ullah was inspired to start a hunger relief program that was culturally sensitive. Thus, MWIRD was born. Amat’ullah is the executive director of the organization, which is headquartered in the Highbridge section of the Bronx and runs two food pantries and a public health awareness program, as well as a range of transitional services for new immigrants. On her journey of self-discovery and personal development, Amat’ullah has made several landmark stops. In 2000, she journeyed to Mecca to complete the Hajj, one of the six pillars of Islam. “This was an eye-opening experience which cemented my covenant with the Divine,” she reminisced. “As a Hajja, I constantly ask myself ‘How does what I do reflect what I claim to believe?’” This month, Amat’ullah will register yet another milestone achievement when she defends her doctoral thesis at the New York Theological Seminary. Her employees at MWIRD are eager to order a special desk plate that reads “Hajja Nurah Amat’ullah, Ph.D.” Despite her many accolades, awards and the success of her organization, Amat’ullah maintains her modesty and commitment to the Divine will. “There is a verse in the Qur’an which loosely translated says, ‘to feed them expecting no thanks in return.’ I embrace this teaching to the point that my only aim is to leave humanity better than how I found it,” she said. “I am comforted by the fact that if I live and do good in this world, then my daughter and my two grandchildren will be the beneficiaries, Insha’Allah.” (God willing). www.thepositivecommunity.com

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March 2010 The Positive Community

Eighth Annual Let Us Break Bread Together Awards Gala Honorees Keith David Actor & Harlemite Rev. Dr. Dedrick L. Blue Senior Pastor Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church Dr. Annie B. Martin President of the New York NAACP Branch Michelle Page Paterson New York’s First Lady

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ew Vision Full Gospel Baptist Church at the Cathedral in East Orange, NJ recently celebrated 16 years of ministry. Bishop André L. Jackson, pastor. The occasion was marked by a concert featuring Lady Tremaine Hawkins with a special guest performance by Rev. Marcia Sapp. Bishop Jackson is pictured above with Lady Hawkins.

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The Positive Community March 2010

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March 2010 The Positive Community

The Multicultural Church: A Relevant Church

By Dr. Joanne J. Noel, M.A., M.DIV.

hen I introduced race and racism in a discussion during coffee hour at the church in which I had been preaching for three years, I noticed a white parishioner grimacing. I was perturbed, but I refrained from making a terse comment. I sensed that the parishioner was uncomfortable engaging in difficult conversations. This response was especially significant, I thought, because it marked the eve of the electoral race between now President Barack Obama and Senator John McCain. The parishioner’s response to the conversation made me wonder how effectively, if at all, I had embodied multiculturalism and exposed parishioners to a different way of seeing and being that reflected an inherent Christian ethos. As the church’s second female pastor in its 200 years of existence and its first black pastor, I wondered if I had been true to my authentic self, or if I had allowed my zealousness to serve to nullify my authentic self. Did I simply follow the form of worship specified by the denomination? Did I simply mimic values and ideas that were Eurocentric? Did I simply “wear the mask that grins and hides”? How did my uniqueness as a black Caribbean-American woman from the land of ‘steel band, calypso, and limbo’ offer the congregation an interpretive framework for understanding who God is and advance in positive and healthy ways their own spiritual and theological formation? Did I in any way help them to embrace a multicultural approach to ministry? What does multiculturalism signify to them and how is it significant for the church? My understanding of multiculturalism is political; it presupposes the presence of privilege and power of the hegemonic culture and requires a space for the intentional embrace and inclusion of those who may be considered marginalized. Hence, multiculturalism is the valuing, embracing, and affirming of people (the Other) from different cultures, ethnicities, and nationalities. Such valuing presupposes inclusion of such folks in the church’s leadership,

liturgy, and decision-making processes. In the Christian church, ‘valuing’ ought to go beyond a mere acknowledgment of the sanctified Other in the worship service through words of welcome or a hug; it goes beyond merely allowing the sanctified Other to sing in the choir; it involves establishing procedures, policies, and practices to ensure the intentional involvement of the sanctified Other in the administrative/leadership function of the church. The praxis of multiculturalism at a church delineates one way of making visible those who are on the church’s periphery because they don’t look or sound like the church’s majority. For those who don’t know, the existence of different races and cultures at a church does not mean that that church is a multicultural church. I argue for a distinction between multiple cultures and multiculturalism. The presence of multiple cultures points to the church’s diversity, but it does not indicate that the church is a multicultural church. As a result of immigration, (legal or otherwise), we have many cultures present at the church. The question is: How can ministry become even more relevant with the presence of the sanctified Other? In Where the Nations Meet, Stephen Rhodes points out that words are important in how we discuss diversity because use of the wrong term can make us express something completely different from what we intended. This is important because some churches use the terms ‘diversity’ and ‘multiculturalism’ interchangeably. Does use of the term diversity mean that a multicultural ethos is present? Multiculturalism is a political term because it connotes a way of seeing and being—an ethos; whereas, diversity tends to indicate the mere presence of an assortment. Rhodes indicates that diversity presumes there is a common truth expressed differently. Diversity presupposes unity. I think his assessment is accurate as it relates to the church. We can speak of a church as being diverse in nationality, ethnicity, socio-economic strata, age, education, and political affiliation, but faith in Christ provides the foundation for our unity. Nevertheless, in promoting unity, we should refrain from the inclination to make the church a melting pot. The body of Christ is not one colossal foot; it has hands, feet, mouth, ears, and eyes. “If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be?” (NRSV, 1 Cor.12.17). With use of the metaphor, I am implying that unity does not presuppose that we don’t recognize and celebrate differences, but the notion of unity suggests that we affirm and value Christian folks from different races and cultures in our congregation by using their gifts and talents in advancing the kingdom of God—the Church’s major purpose. In what ways have the cultures of sanctified Others been affirmed, valued, and celebrated in your church’s curriculum- the Christian Education curriculum, the worship service, the administration, and the church’s events and programs? If and when the sanctified Other is acknowledged, is it an afterthought, or as a result of intentional inclusiveness? In what ways have sanctified Othcontinued on page 56

The Positive Community March 2010

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March 2010 The Positive Community

Fortunate Observers Youth Sunday in Jamaica, West Indies Text and Photos By Bob Gore

usiness travel often affords me the opportunity to explore local communities, and when I’m on the road over a weekend, I especially enjoy visiting local houses of worship. Attending new gatherings is spiritually rejuvenating, offering rare insights into our culture and traditions. I am continually intrigued by the similarities in spoken and musical traditions represented in all varieties of African American worship. Over the years I’ve been a very fortunate observer. Clergy and worshipers sense the sincerity of my work and have been accommodating beyond my expectations. It is a high honor to be allowed to photograph in this most intimate of settings.

Such was my good fortune on my last visit to Jamaica. One evening, a fellow dinner guest heard me discuss my interest in photographing religious events, and offered to introduce me to her father who was a pastor. This chance discussion led to an extraordinary experience the following Sunday. James Mountain is the latest congregation in the Church of God of Prophecy in Sligoville, St. Catherine, Jamaica. Sunday morning was sunny and warm – typical of Jamaica. Sun poured through the unfinished windows in the cinderblock sanctuary. The worshipers were inviting, the preaching was robust and the hymns were very familiar. My friend Leonard McKenzie and I were introduced by Rev. Walsh as international journalists and allowed the great privilege of photographing the entire service. The day’s program was reminiscent of similar services from my past. Youth Sunday is always a joyous worship occasion; an audience filled with proud parents, edgy youth leaders and carefree children smiling through their readings, speeches, songs and sacred dancing. Such gatherings are also cloaked with heightened tension, especially among those given the responsibility of preparing the young people. Hope, pride and expectation flowed through the congregation. All in all, the program was a delight to young and old alike. One presentation was particularly noteworthy. The centerpiece was delivered by a twelve-year-old who confidently read his text and delivered a soul stirring short sermon. During the standing ovation a woman next to me leaned over and whispered: “Me believe say de bowy a go be a preacha one day.” I replied, “Amen.”

<<I am continually intrigued by the similarities in spoken and musical traditions represented in all varieties of African American worship. Over the years I’ve been a very fortunate observer. Clergy and worshipers sense the sincerity of my work and

Church of God Prophecy James Mountain Sligoville, Jamica, West Indies Rev. Lebert Walsh, pastor

The Positive Community March 2010

have been accommodating beyond my expectations.>> www.thepositivecommunity.com

worldchurch After the service Rev. Walsh guided us on a walking tour of a number of local historic sites. We also used the time to discuss the work of the church. Sligoville has a rich history and is well known for being the first “free village” occupied by ex-slaves in Jamaica. On August 1, 1834, Howe Peter Brown, Marquis of Sligo and also Jamaica’s governor, implemented the proposed Emancipation Act. Hence the town, Sligoville, was named in his honor. There are many points of interest in this primarily rural community. The area contains a number of historic churches and remnants of mansions once occupied by wealthy landowners. The area itself seems to be going through somewhat of a renaissance. New construction is occurring, as is the vibrancy that comes from economic growth. There is a growing sense of optimism, with churches playing a major role in the community’s transformation. The Church of God of Prophecy is a Cleveland, Tennessee based organization with one million members worshipping in more than 10,000 churches in 125 nations. Ninety percent of its global membership is outside of North America. The church defines its ministry this way: “In contemporary theological terms, the Church of God of Prophecy is a Protestant, Evangelical, Wesleyan holiness, Pentecostal movement that believes in man’s freewill regarding salvation.”

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March 2010 The Positive Community

NAACP

Continued from page 35 to lead the 100-year old organization. In addition to her work with the NAACP, Brock is vice president at Bon Secours Health Care in Marriottsville, MD, where she is the company’s chief spokesperson on government relations, advocacy and public policy. She was with the W. K. Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek, Michigan working in health programs for 10 years prior to joining Bon Secours. A magna cum laude graduate of Virginia Union University, Brock has a master’s degree in health services administration from George Washington University, an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Master of Divinity degree from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. “I have enjoyed my time as Chairman of the Board and the people with whom I have worked with over the past decade. I will continue to treasure this as a singular experience and continue to be active in the NAACP as a member of the National Board of Directors,” concluded Bond. “There will never be another Julian Bond, and there will never be another Myrlie Evers-Williams. Those of that stature in the civil rights movement have made untold contributions, sacrificed and invested in us, and it is up to us to take it the rest of the way,” concluded Brock. “We need to lead and leave it better than we found it…that’s the huge challenge.”

The Positive Community March 2010

Rev. Dr. Ben Monroe

COHFAMM: Serving up Food for the Body and the Soul

n the last Wednesday of each month, Rev. Dr. Ben Monroe can be found in Rosedale, Queens, feeding bodies and souls with his new program, The Cold or Hot Food and Music Ministry. After three years recruiting volunteers, holding training workshops and raising the consciousness of the community the program is full swing. Seniors enjoy the monthly breakfast served up by Rev. Monroe and COHFAMM between 8:00 and 11:00 a.m. at the USA Diner, 243-03 Merrick Blvd., where they receive food for the body and the spirit.

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FACES OF BLACK HISTORY

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Esteemed media pioneer Bill McCreary, with McDonald’s owner operators Ron Bailey and Mason Smoot.

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Sandra Bookman (WABCTV), Brenda Blackmon (MY 9) News and Lynn White (WCBS-TV) were hosts for the luncheon.

s they have for the past seven years, McDonald’s New York Tri-State Area Restaurants celebrated men and women who have impacted the black community through their achievements and positive examples. This year’s campaign honored Black Media Legends at a luncheon at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in Manhattan and the 2010 Faces of Black History poster, the centerpiece of the campaign was unveiled. The full color commemorative posters were available free of charge at the 600 area McDonald’s during Black History Month. This year’s honorees were James “JB” Brown,CBS Sports; Art McFarland, WABC 7; Bill McCreary, (formerly of) Fox 5; Ken Singleton, Yes Network; Dari Alexander, Fox 5; David Ushery,WNBC 4; James Ford, WPIX 11; Cheryl Wills, NY1; Michael Coleman, News 12 Long Island; Ken Grimball, News 12 Long Island; Charles Hobson, PBS; Ed Lover, Power105.1 FM; Bob Slade, 98.7 KissFM; Gerry Luke, Fox 5; Tracy O. Emory,CBS 2; Carl J. Brinson aka “Tiny Prince,” Trend Publishing Co, Inc., Don Thomas, New York Beacon and Thomas H. Watkins, The Challenge Group. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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March 2010 The Positive Community

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GLENN TOWNES BOOK REVIEW

Dispelling myths about Blackness riveting new book by advertising guru Tom Burrell tackles the usually toxic topic of race relations and the imagery of Blackness in America. The book, Brainwashed—Challenging the Myth of Black Inferiority, is an in depth and chillingly revealing look into how others—namely white Americans—view African Americans. Burrell, a 45-year veteran of virtually every aspect of the advertising industry, uses his experience and deftness as a businessman to tell a cogent story of just how society’s opinions, views and perceptions of a race of people are formed by the images portrayed in the media. He writes, “The marketing of black inferiority and white superiority as building blocks for the founding of America is a chicken that has finally come home to roost. Now we must ask ourselves: Did the world’s greatest brainwashing campaign work?” Burrell, according to some in the often contentious and cutthroat world of marketing and advertising is known not only for being a crafty and shrewd businessman, but also being blunt and direct. He parlays all of these talents into driving home a point about how black Americans have labored and toiled under a cloud of black inferiority/white superiority for centuries—stretching back to the days of slavery. He writes, “To be blunt: disproportionate black family dysfunction is directly linked to American chattel slavery, the Founding Fathers, and the barbaric entrepreneurship of a nation.” He adds, “In layman’s terms, the black family had to be destroyed and the first order of business was to annihilate the black family’s designated protector—the black man.” Contrary to Burrell’s assertion that the bulk of current and past problems African Americans face come from repeated negative images portrayed in the media, other noted African American scholars and authorities disagree. For example, the book, The End of Blackness by Debra J. Dickerson notes that many African Americans remain bitter and angry. Dickerson said blacks are so mired in the past wrongs done to them that they are unwilling, and/or unable to move forward and work to improve their status. She writes, “Blacks simply do not know how to be absent oppression.” A live debate between Burrell and Dickerson about who bears the blame for perpetuating the myth of Black inferiority would indeed be a salacious, palpable and lively discussion! To that end, the one drawback of the book, however, is that the author does a lot of finger pointing and seemingly blames others for things that some might say can be attributed to our own mistakes and gaffes as a race.

The Positive Community March 2010

At any rate, Brainwashed is an intense and solidly written book that raises awareness about how others see us as people and as African Americans. Burrell is to be commended for writing a book that pits two widely held, yet diametrically opposite clichés against one another. The hackneyed expressions, “Seeing is believing” and “Don’t believe anything you read and only half of what you see…” will resonate with readers throughout the book. It is an effective tool that makes Brainwashed thought-provoking. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Curtailing Childhood Obesity Risk Factors Must Be Addressed Even Before Birth

fforts to prevent childhood obesity should begin far earlier than currently thought—perhaps even before birth—especially for minority children, according to a new study that tracked 1,826 women from pregnancy through their children's first five years of life. Most obesity prevention programs—including the national initiative recently launched by First Lady Michelle Obama—target kids age 8 and older. Scientists at the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute's Department of Population Medicine, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, now say that factors that place children at higher risk for obesity begin at infancy, and in some cases, during pregnancy. Their research also suggests that risk factors such as poor feeding practices, insufficient sleep and televisions in bedrooms are more prevalent among minority children than white children. "This early life period—prenatal, infancy, to age 5–is a key period for childhood obesity prevention, especially for minority children," says Elsie Taveras, lead author of the study and an assistant professor of population medicine at Harvard Medical School, as well as the director of the One Step Ahead Program at Children's Hospital Boston. "Almost every single risk factor in that period before age 2, including in the prenatal period, was disproportionately higher among minority children." For the study, which appeared online March 1 in the journal Pediatrics, researchers interviewed 1,343 white, 355 black and 128 Hispanic pregnant women at the end of the first and second trimesters, in the first few days following delivery, and when the children were 6 months and 3 years of age. The women also completed questionnaires when the children were 1, 2 and 4 years old. When compared to Caucasian women, the researchers

The Positive Community March 2010

found that minority women were more likely to be overweight when they became pregnant and Hispanic women had a higher rate of gestational diabetes, both risk factors for childhood obesity. Although the prevalence of two other risk factors—smoking and depression—during pregnancy was higher among African-American and Hispanic women, those rates dropped considerably when the researchers adjusted for socioeconomic status, suggesting that at least those two risk factors may be impacted by income and education levels. When researchers looked at other risk factors during children's first five years, they found that AfricanAmerican and Hispanic infants are more likely than their Caucasian counterparts to be born small, gain excess weight after birth, begin eating solid foods before 4 months of age and sleep less. During their preschool years, the study suggests, minority children eat more fast food, drink more sugar-sweetened beverages and are more likely to have televisions in their rooms than Caucasian children. One commonly held theory is that the presence of these and other risk factors is caused by limited access to health care, poverty and low educational levels. However, when Taveras and her colleagues adjusted for socioeconomic status, they found that the prevalence of many of the risk factors remained the same. More likely, Taveras says, the risk factors stem from behaviors and habits passed from generation to generation or that may be culturally embedded. "For a lot of patients I see in my clinic, it's intergenerational—for example, the grandmother in the home is influencing how her daughter feeds her own child." That's especially true when it comes to at what age mothers begin giving their infants www.thepositivecommunity.com

solid food or when the mothers decide to stop breastfeeding, Taveras says. "Sometimes trying to tackle those intergenerational influences can be very difficult, but actually, it's promising that some of the areas where we did find disparities are modifiable," Taveras notes. "Anyone who works with families of young children, including pediatricians and child care providers, can work on these issues." The far more difficult task would be to address problems that are related to socioeconomic status. In this study, that didn't play as large a role because participants had access to good prenatal and pediatric care for their children and were well-educated. "We found these striking disparities even in this population, where we had racial and ethnic minority families who were of relatively higher education and income," she says. "Imagine what the disparity would be in a population that's of lower socioeconomic status." That's a question Taveras plans to tackle next. The goal now is to look at other novel risk factors that might be more common among minority populations—including those that will likely be tied to income and education. "All of the risk factors that we examined in this study were known factors that have been published in the literature, including some of our own literatures," Taveras says. “But there are risk factors that are still understudied, that we have a sense are more common, and that's where we plan to go next.”

Bereavement Group for Men at Calvary Hospital

alvary Hospital, which is devoted exclusively to providing palliative care to adult advanced cancer patients, recently formed a bereavement support group for men who have lost their spouse/partner, parent, child or sibling; are separated or divorced; or are dealing with their own health issues. Each group will focus on handling stress and sadness, managing loneliness, rebuilding self esteem, and dealing with relationships. The Program is free and open to the public. “We are forming a group for men based on the feedback we have received from those who attend our other groups,” said Dr. Sherry R. Schachter, Calvary’s director of Bereavement Services. “Many men do not feel comfortable attending bereavement groups where emotions are usually shared. Instead, the focus of their grief tends to be more cognitive than it is expressive. Our goal with this new group will be to create a safe place to help men manage their grief by problem solving rather than discussing their feelings.” The Men’s Group takes place every other Tuesday from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the hospital, 1740 Eastchester Road, Bronx NY 10461. For more information, contact: Dr. Sherry R. Schachter at (718) 518-2125 or sschachter@calvaryhospital.org

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Children’s Aid and Family Services has been helping children whose families are unable to care for them since 1899. Our professional foster parents, like Jeanette and rodney, are committed to helping vulnerable adolescents lead independent, fulfilling lives. In fact, their careers are being parents. they live with teenagers and provide a stable, nurturing home environment. If you are in a committed relationship, want to be a positive role model to vulnerable teenagers and provide them with a loving, stable, family home life, we’d like to hear from you. To learn more, call our recruitment specialist at (973) 762.5887. Our professional foster parents live in agencyowned homes, receive salaries and generous benefits. Support is provided every step of the way.

March 2010 The Positive Community

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JOHN M. PALMER Ph.D. ASK DOCTOR PALMER

John M. Palmer, Ph.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist with a practice in New York City and is presently the Executive Director of Harlem Hospital Center and the Renaissance Health Care Network

When Disaster Hits, Will You Be Ready? Dear Dr. Palmer September 11, Hurricane Katrina and Haiti and Chile earthquakes. When faced with a disaster, how can we move from being a victim to being a survivor? —Signed, Survivor. Dear Survivor: Disasters are regular occurrences, and we now speak of them as “when” types of happenings as opposed to “what if” types of happenings. Normally, we live in denial that a disaster will strike and one catches us by surprise. For most, being prepared is the last thing on our minds. If we are unprepared, when (not if, but when) a disaster strikes, it can take years to re-build our lives. Here are some tips and strategies that I hope that you never have to use: . Be Prepared For The Worst Have equipment that allows you to hear or watch the news at all times, such as a battery powered radio or television. Keep fresh batteries available. If you are being warned to leave the area, gather your family together, and get out. Keep an emergency supply of cash secure but readily available in small bills, none bigger than $20. Keep your gas tank always at least half full. Store all important original papers and vital records in a bank or fire/waterproof locked box that can be easily grabbed. Include copies of all of your banking information and account numbers.

The Positive Community March 2010

Improve your Chances of Survival Prepare a “Go Bag” stocked with the necessities you and your family will need. Each one must have an identification tag. Involve Your Family In the Planning and Preparation Process Just as world-class athletes rehearse mentally for events, we need to rehearse disaster response. When a disaster strikes elsewhere, use it as an opportunity to discuss what you and your family would do if a similar disaster happened to you. Schedule regular discussions with your loved ones about unique scenarios that your family will have to navigate to successfully outlast a disaster. Twice a year, your family can practice responding to the following questions: If we become separated, where will we meet? How will we communicate? What are our emergency telephone numbers? Plan where you are going to meet after a disaster if your home becomes unsafe. Choose two places, one just outside your home and one outside your neighborhood in case you are told to evacuate. Children must be taught how to identify themselves in the event that you become separated. By four years old, most children can memorize and repeat very clear information about their last names, addresses and phone numbers. The point is to make sure that you regularly prac-

tice with your children so that they remember how to identify themselves and their family. Do they know their mother’s and father’s first and last names? A good survival tactic for an elderly person is a medical alert or alarm system worn as a pendant or a bracelet. These systems are monitored and could be an extra level of safety during a disaster. Slow and Steady There is so much to learn about survival planning. I encourage you to proceed slowly, but steadily. Spend a few dollars a month purchasing items for your Go Bag. Spend an hour or so having an “emergency preparedness conversation” with your family members. Take a first aid course. Read about and practice survival skills. Become an expert on emergency preparedness. When a real emergency happens, you and your family will be grateful that you took the time to prepare.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature and cannot substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Even if a statement made about health is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms. This article should not be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine. Readers are strongly advised to seek the advice of a qualified medical professional. Have a question for Dr. Palmer? Write to him c/o The Positive Community magazine, positive.corp@verizon.net.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael is the owner of The Fitness Doctor, Inc., a Personal Training, Consulting and Wellness company. To contact Kahlil, call 732-921-3746 or visit his website at www.Thefitnessdoctor.com.

Are You Ready for the “Next Level?” e have adopted as a theme in our ministry for 2010, “Next Level Living.” In thinking about what this means, the Lord has impressed upon me that it simply means living in a way that glorifies God in all areas of our lives, including our health and fitness. What I realized is how often we are stopped in our tracks from pursuing the next level in healthy living because we are uncomfortable in doing so. This resistance also affects other worthy and obtainable pursuits. I recently heard someone say that there can be no real or lasting change without discomfort. Want to do the work that you love? Why not volunteer in the field until something opens up for you even if it means giving up part of your weekend? Do you want to realize a lifelong dream and purchase a home? Maybe you need to stop eating out as frequently and take your lunch to work to save money. I am reminded of the story of Esther in the bible. She was chosen to be queen and could have easily ridden off into the sunset and lived a life of luxury, but there was a catch, something that threatened to disrupt the peace of her now comfortable life. Instead of turning away from her challenge, which meant going against a law created by her husband (that might result in her death) in order to save her uncle, she faced the challenge head on. In 4:16 she says, “If I perish, I perish.” Esther sought God and then fasted. She found favor with her husband and saved her uncle and the community he was connected with. What would have happened if Esther had decided she did not want to be uncomfortable? Are you finally ready to lose weight? Will you wake up a half hour earlier or go to bed after everyone else when the house is quiet so that you can get your workout in without interruption? Will you scale back on visits to the hair salon in order to hire a personal trainer, or trade looking at the game for an actual visit to the gym? I recently had a conversation with a busy mom who has made significant progress in her weight loss efforts. I wanted to know what had finally clicked for her, I was surprised when she replied with sadness, “I have spent some of the best years of my adult life seriously overweight and I can’t get those years back. I am going forward no matter what!” This woman often works out after

The Positive Community March 2010

a 12 hour work day. I am sure there are many moments when she would rather forget about her workout and relax on the sofa, but her desire to live life on the next level and not waste any more time propels her to keep going and push! I encourage you to not give up and turn away from your desire to live a better and healthier life, just because you are temporarily uncomfortable. Remember, next level living requires next level thinking and next level decisions!

FIT COMMUNITY Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, 1:30PM

St. Phillip’s Church Staten Island, NY Fitness for Life Presentation

Mondays at 7:00AM

It is Well Living Church The Word and Workout Bible Study The Word: 7–7:50PM The Workout: 8–8:35PM

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:45–10:15AM and 10:30–11:00AM

JFK Rehabilitation Center

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

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MULTICULTURAL CHURCH Continued from page 42 ers been valued and affirmed in their particularity or uniqueness? ers their particularity orand Let been me justvalued clarify and that affirmed I am in noinway endorsing a valuing uniqueness? Let me just clarify that I am in no way affirming that is outside the moral codes and principles of theenbiblidorsing a valuing and affirming is outside theOther’s moral cal text, but I am advocating one that that is predicated on the codes andofprinciples of the biblical text, of but I amasadvoconfession sin, repentance for sins, reception Christ Savior, cating one that is predicated on the Other’s confession and acceptance into the church. of sin, repentanceinfor reception Christ as Savior, Multiculturalism thesins, church bespeaks of radical hospitality. Afand acceptance into the church. ter the sanctified Other has been received into the church through themember’s church bespeaks radical the Multiculturalism rites of baptism, theinnew class, and the right hand hospitality. After the sanctified Other has been received of fellowship, what provisions are instituted to secure his/her full into the church through the rites of baptism, the new inclusion and participation? member’s class, and the right handjobofoffellowship, what While some churches do an excellent advancing the kingprovisions are instituted to secure his/her full inclusion dom because of a prevalent multicultural ethos, others still need to and participation? ask the question: in what ways have there been representations of While some churches do an excellent advancOtherness in the church’s theological perspectivesjob andof pedagogical ing the kingdom because of a prevalent multicultural approaches? Other churches, in spite of the rich diversity present in ethos, others still need to ask their congregation need to ask: howthe havequestion: we shown in thatwhat we value ways have there been representations of Otherness in all cultures within this congregation? the church’s theological perspectives and pedagogical approaches? Other churches, in spite of the rich and Dr. Joanne J. Noel, M.A., M.DIV., DMIN is assistant professor of English diversity present in their congregation need to ask: director, Instructional Resource Center at Somerset Christian College. how have we shown that we value all cultures within this congregation? Dr. Joanne J. Noel, M.A., M.DIV., DMIN is assistant professor of English and director, Instructional Resource Center at Somerset Christian College.

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The Positive Community March 2010

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What a remarkable feeling to provide the spirit of living to a patient who is dying. A smile. A hug. A daily bouquet of ﬂowers. A scrumptious meal. Praying together. Staying together. Does this sound like a place where people come to die? Or rather…come to live? This unique hospital called Calvary provides patients and their families with a continuance of a quality of life they deserve… the very best kind. The fact is, all Calvary employees take extraordinary pride in their jobs. From the expert nurses, doctors, and cancer care technicians to the leadership of the administrative staff to the various support personnel there is one, unifying, common goal: to be sure that Calvary Hospital will always be the haven Where Life Continues for those at the end of their life. We also make sure that family members have a haven of companionship with round-the-clock caregivers and friends who will never abandon them. It is emotional, psychological, and spiritual care and comfort we call the “spirit of living.” Call and speak with one of our nurses today at 718-518-2300.

1740 Eastchester Road • Bronx, NY 10461 • (718) 518-2300 • www.calvaryhospital.org Calvary Hospital Inpatient Service • Outpatient Services • Calvary@Home (Home Care/Hospice) Center for Curative and Palliative Wound Care • Satellite Services at Lutheran Medical Center, Brooklyn NY 11220 (Calvary@Home programs are Medicare-certified and contract with most major insurances.)

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The Positive Community March 2010

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March 2010 The Positive Community

GoGreen GoGreen Photo: Tree & J. Hensdill, courtesy Flickr

S A V I NSGA VOI U NR G POLUARN E P TL — A NSETTE— P SBTYE PS TBEYP S T E P

GREEN GREEN ENERGY ENERGY GUIDE GUIDE

From the Editors of E/The Environmental Magazine EARTHTALK No Cost Noand Cost Low and Cost Low Ways Costto Ways SavetoMoney Save Money and Energy and Energy

here is no excuse here is not no excuse to do your not part. to doItyour doesn’t part.take It doesn’t a greattake deala of great timedeal or money of timetoorpitch money in and to pitch helpin and help

Green? Natural?

keep our planet keep our beautiful planetand beautiful more importantly, and more importantly, functional for functional ourselves forand ourselves the generations and the generations to come. to come. Check out these Checkeasy out no these costeasy or low no cost cost or tipslow to cost maketips your to make life and your thelife entire andworld the entire a greener worldplace. a greener place.

Avoid marketing hype when seeking NO COST NOwholesome COST COST LOW COST nutrition forLOW your kids

• Install showerheads low-flow and showerheads sink aerators and to sink reduce aerators to reduce • Turn off everything • Turn off not everything in use: lights, not TVs, in use: computers, lights, TVs, etc.computers, etc. • Install low-flow hot water use.hot water use. • Check furnace • Check or air conditioners furnace or air(AC) conditioners filters monthly, (AC) filters and clean monthly, and clean andparents weatherstrip • Sealgive andwindows weatherstrip and doors windows to keep and heat orto keep or replace needed. or replace Dirty as filters needed. block Dirty airfilters flow through block airyour flow throughmany your• Seal times up trying to find thedoors snacks thatheat or ood writerasMichael Pollan recommends steering conditioning airfrom conditioning escaping. from escaping. heating and cooling heating and cooling increasing systems, your increasing energy billyour andenergy billtheir and air kids like and settle for popular junk foods instead.” She clear of foods thatsystems, advertise their green attributes • A water tank•insulation A water tank wrap insulation costs about wrap $20 costs andabout helps $20 holdand the theshortening equipment’s thelife. equipment’s life.of reasoning, stresses the importance of teaching kids which snacks to helps eat hold the onshortening their label. According to his line heat inside. Add heat pre-cut inside. pipe insulation pre-cut pipe to they exposed insulation to exposed going obepipes going • During hot amonths, •fruit During keep hot window months, coverings keep window closed coverings on the south, closed south, and which to avoid early inAdd life so that canpipes sidestep why give a child roll-up when you can give him or on the into your water into heater—it your water is cheap heater—it and easy is cereals, cheap to install. andfor easy If example, you’re to install. If you’re east,ofand westeast, windows. andprocessed west In winter, windows. letfoods the In winter, sunneed in. let to theadversun in. sity problems altogether. Nuts and dry her a piece fruit? Only starting with anstarting uninsulated an tank, uninsulated the energy savings the energy shouldsavings pay should pay • Glass fireplace Glass doorsfireplace help stopdoors heathelp fromstop being heat lostfrom up the being chimlost up the chimare good alternatives towith chips and othertank, junk food. tise what’s natural•about them, whereas an apple speaks for the improvements for the improvements in just a few months. in just a few months. ney. Close the ney. fireplace Closedampers the fireplace whendampers not in use. when not in use. According to California-based pediatrician and author for itself, providing wholesome nutrition without the • Use mastic (a • Use gooey mastic substance (a gooey applied substance with a applied paintbrush) with not a paintbrush) duct not duct • Activate “sleep” • Activate features “sleep” on computers features and on computers office equipment and office equipment William Sears, who markets his own line of healthy kids need for marketing hype. tape to seal alltape exposed to seal ductwork all exposed jointsductwork in areas joints such as in areas the attic, such as the attic, that power down thatwhen power notdown in use. when Turn notoffinequipment use. Turn off during equipment long during long snacks called Lunchbox Essentials, parents should make But most of us depend on the occasional packaged crawlspace, orcrawlspace, basement. Insulate or basement. ducts Insulate to improve ducts yourtoheating improve your heating periods of non-use. periods of non-use. sure that any snack foods they give their family members or processed food, so choosing between the lesser of system’s efficiency system’s and efficiency your own comfort. and your own comfort. • When cooking, • When keep cooking, the lids on keep pots. theBetter lids onyet, pots. useBetter a microwave yet, use a microwave provide both fiber and protein, which giveloss thebyfeeling of two evils oven sometimes hasinstead. to be the way to go. If a product • Storm windows • Storm can reduce windows heat canloss reduce by 25–50 heat percent 25–50 during percent the during the instead. oven fullness, and taste good as well. He adds that parents should lists natural ingredients on its label—anything from real winter. Plastic winter. sheeting Plastic installed sheeting on theinstalled inside also on the helps. inside also helps. • Dress appropriately • Dressfor appropriately the weather,forand theset weather, your thermostat and set your to thermostat to learn to read labels they can tell which products contain fruits, vegetables and topossible cereals, grains and other • Look for the •ENERGY LooksoforSTAR the ENERGY label, found STAR onlabel, more found than 40 on more different than 40 different the lowest possible thenuts lowest comfortable setting. comfortable On winter setting. nights, On put winter an nights, put an hydrogenated oils, artificial colors, preservatives and highhealthy foods you can recognize without a food dictionas TVs, furnaces, such as TVs, cell phones, furnaces,refrigerators, cell phones,air refrigerators, air extra blanket on extra theblanket bed andonturn thedown bed and yourturn thermostat down your more. thermostat more.products such products corn syrup—all which ary on hand—it’s better than a food onof AC. fructose conditioners and conditioners more. ofand more.should be avoided. • In summer, use •probably In fans summer, whenever use fans possible whenever instead possible ofreliant AC. instead • Take five-minute • Take showers five-minute instead showers of baths. instead Do only of baths. full loads Do only full loads As a last resort for especially finicky kids, parents can artificial flavors and sweeteners. Incandescent bulbs that are light outdated; bulbs 95 arepercent outdated; the 95 percent energy the energy using thewhen clothes the clothes orhealthy dishwasher. washer or dishwasher. “One when way for your kidsusing towasher enjoy snacks is to get findIncandescent packagedlight snacks might look likeofjunk food of but goes to heating used goes the to bulb, heating adding theunwanted bulb, adding heatunwanted to certain your home heat to your home • Switchon to naturally cold • Switch water insweet totop coldloading water energy-inefficient in top loading energy-inefficient washing them started foods,” says Christine Steen- washing are used actually healthy and nutritious, including infor-theof summer. Replace the summer. your five Replace most your usedbars. five lightmost bulbs used with light ENERGY bulbs with ENERGY machines to save machines energytoand save up energy tosells $63menus and a year—detergents up toand $63 shopa year—detergents fordahl of Kid Approved Meals, which brands fruitinroll-ups and granola Look in the STAR compact STAR fluorescent compact fluorescent to save $60 bulbseach to save year$60 in energy each year in energy for cold mulated water get forfor cold clothes water justget asclothes clean. justpreparaas clean. ping lists mulated to parents looking guidance in meal snack aisle of your localbulbs natural foods market for such These light costs. bulbs These uselight two-thirds lesstwo-thirds energy and less lastenergy up 10 last up to 10 •Lowermost the temperature •Lower theontemperature your water heater. on your Itwater should heater. be set It should at beitems, setcosts. at and tion. “Since kids crave sweets…naturally sweet foods don’t be afraid tobulbs ask use store personnel forto and times times dimmers, longer. Use timers, dimmers, and motion detectors and motion on indoor detectors on indoor “warm,” so that “warm,” a thermometer so that aheld under running held under water reads runningnowater reads no longer. Use such as fruits are perfect,” she says.thermometer Real bananas, oranges, recommendations. It’s important totimers, take your child’s and outdoor lighting. and outdoor Consider lighting. safer,Consider more efficient safer, more ENERGY efficient STAR ENERGY STAR more than 130more degrees. than 130 degrees. apples, cherries, strawberries and other fruits are popular nutrition seriously. Whether your children realize it or torchiere lampstorchiere rather than lamps halogen rathertorchieres, than halogen which torchieres, can cause which can cause • Only heat or •cool Onlythe heat rooms or cool you the need—close rooms youvents need—close and doors vents of and doors of with most kids. “You can mix in yogurt or even make a fruit not, you are setting patterns that will enable them to live fires. Halogen fires. bulbs Halogen are expensive bulbs are to use. expensive to use. unused rooms.unused rooms.

smoothie with some milk and a drop of chocolate or other natural flavors,” Steendahl suggests. “One thing towww.thepositivecommunity.com recognize about children is that if they try www.thepositivecommunity.com enough types of natural and healthy snacks, they will find one that they enjoy,” says Steendahl. “The problem is that

The Positive Community March 2010

healthier and longer lives.

SEND YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONS TO:

EarthTalk, P.O. Box 5098, CT 06881; Community Community NA Positive June Westport, 2009 The June 2009 The PositiveNA earthlink@emaagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php www.thepositivecommunity.com

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Resurrection Women ince March is Women’s History Month, let’s review Jesus’ salient female followers around the time of his crucifixion and resurrection. My chronology begins before Passion Week. John chapter 11 records that when Jesus’ friend Lazarus died, Jesus told Lazarus’ bereaved sister Martha, “Your brother will rise again.” (New International Version) Martha replied, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” (NIV) Christ responded, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die . . .” (NIV) Jesus then resurrected Lazarus, foreshadowing Christ’s own imminent resurrection. Martha unintentionally provided conversational cues for Jesus to make a foundational point. Not long after, one day before Palm Sunday at a dinner honoring Jesus in Bethany, Martha’s sister, Mary, poured a pint of expensive perfume on Jesus’ head and feet, and wiped it with her hair. When some who were present complained that the perfume could have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor, Christ answered that Mary was preparing him for his burial. Mary’s action provided the cue for Jesus to remind the disciples of his upcoming crucifixion. (Mark 14:1-9; John 12:1-13) After Jesus was arrested, interrogated, and beaten, as the authorities led him to Golgotha to be crucified, the large crowd that followed included women who mourned and wailed for him. Jesus told them, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. For the time will come when you will say, ‘Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ . . .” (Luke 23:27-31, NIV). At the crucifixion, standing among those who knew Jesus, were many women who had followed him in Galilee and to Jerusalem to care for his needs. These included Mary Magdalene, Jesus’ mother Mary, Jesus’ aunt, and the mother of disciples John and James, Zebedee (Matthew 27:55-56; Mark 15: 40-41; Luke 23:49; John 19:25-27). Later that Friday, as Joseph of Arimathea laid Jesus’ linen-wrapped body in a tomb cut out of rock and rolled a stone against the entrance, two of the women sat opposite (Matthew 27:55-61; Mark 15:40-47; Luke 23:49-55). Sunday at dawn, when some of the women returned to the tomb, they saw that the stone had been rolled away. An angel, who had terrified the guards posted by the Sanhedrin, told the sisters not to fear, informed them that Jesus had risen, and invited them to view the spot where his body had lain. Then

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the angel instructed the ladies to tell the disciples that Christ had gotten up and that they would see him in Galilee (Matthew 28:1-7; Mark 16:1-7; Luke 23:56 through Luke 24:7). The angels also reminded the women that before they had left Galilee, Jesus had told them he would be delivered into sinful men’s hands, crucified, and rise on the third day. The sisters remembered this when reminded (Luke 24:6-8). As the women ran to carry out their instructions to inform the disciples, the risen Christ himself met them and repeated the instructions (Matthew 28:8-10). The women reported all this to the Eleven and the others. John’s gospel both differs from and parallels the narratives of the women at the tomb recorded in the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). Among the differences, the synoptic gospels state that the women brought spices to anoint Jesus’ corpse at dawn on Sunday morning, while John reports that on Friday Nicodemus had brought a myrrh and aloe mixture and that he and Joseph of Arimathea had wrapped the body in spices and linen before its entombment (John 19:3842). John mentions only Mary Magdalene at the tomb on Sunday morning, while the synoptic gospels list more than one woman. The synoptic gospels report one Sunday trip to the tomb by the women; John reports two Sunday trips by Mary Magdalene. John reports Christ telling Mary Magdalene not to hold on to him because he had not yet returned to the Father (John 20:10-17); the synoptic gospels lack this conversation. But John parallels the other gospel writers in reporting that there was female presence at the tomb on Sunday morning, communication occurred between angel and woman, and communication happened between Jesus and woman during which Jesus provided instructions to be relayed to the disciples. The differences are not necessarily contradictions. The event sequence is essentially the same. The apparent differences likely reflect differing emphases among the gospel writers. John’s writing throughout his book is generally more personal and more spiritual. His concentration on Mary Magdalene exemplifies the more personal and his mentioning Christ speaking about ascending to the Father exemplifies the more spiritual. Moreover, having written later than the other gospel writers, John tends to fill in the others’ blanks–somewhat like 20th century news commentator Paul Harvey’s The Rest of the Story. That said, I conclude that Mary Magdalene actually moved with the other sisters, but John zeroed in on her role. March 2010 The Positive Community

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

The Last Word www.thepositivecommunity.com March 2010

Vol. 10, No. 4

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Contributing Writers Sonja Gracy Dr. Phillip Bonaparte Dr. John Palmer Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Rosemary Sinclair Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Herb Boyd Glenda Codogan Toni Parker Helene Fox Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Herb Glenn Vincent Bryant Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: positive.corp@verizon.net Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © 2009 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.

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The Positive Community March 2010

BY R.L. WITTER he pages of the March issue of The Positive Community are graced by several incredibly brilliant, talented and accomplished women, which seems apropos as March is Women’s History Month. While these women have varied achievements, educations, passions and visions, two common threads can be found that connect them to the other women we celebrate this month: they are all quite charming and they all have made a difference. Actress Loretta Young once opined, “A charming woman doesn’t follow the crowd. She is herself.” While that sentiment is clearly represented in these pages, sadly, it all-too-often is absent in too many of our sisters we see daily. Whether it be the scantily-clad video vixen on television or the apathetic mother who lets her children run rampant in the supermarket or the streets, we have all encountered these women at some point or another and shaken our heads in disapproval and sometimes in disbelief. But what do we do? How do we address the issue and bring about positive change? It begins with self and with the power of community! For one thing, we must comport ourselves not only as savvy and sage women, but as ladies. I promise you that none of the women we celebrate this month achieved what she did by behaving as anything less. Times have changed enough that we rarely have the pleasure of seeing or hearing a lady on television, in a movie or as a reference in a song. Instead, our senses are assaulted by women who as “Rudy” from Fat Albert used to say, “…remind me of school in the summertime—No class!” One might actually begin to think that “lady” is a four-letter word—well, it is, but not in that sense. And speaking of four-letter words— and in some cases three and five-letter words, have you actually listened to how most women speak today? Not only am I taken aback by the usage of words once reserved for the lexicon of truckers and sailors, but what about the way we women refer to one another? When did we stop addressing each other as “Sister Jones” or “Miss Sally”

and stoop to calling ourselves bitches, hoes and tricks? My grandmother used to advise me, “Keep your words soft and sweet in case you should ever have to eat them.” For me, lady just seems as though it would taste better. Grandma also told me that “it doesn’t matter what people call you—it’s what you answer to that matters.” Well if I don’t address people with them, you can be certain that I don’t answer to those crass terms either. We live in a world where images of hyper-sexualized women and media messages that praise style over substance wield unprecedented influence over our impressionable youth, who will believe what they see and hear, then later emulate it unless we intervene. How can we expect dignity and respect of our children if we do not set the example? While we cannot control the way others behave in the presence of our children, we can control ourselves. And like it or not, our children are always watching and listening to us—always; and if they don’t hear us use such language, they are less likely to use it themselves. Well, at least in our presence. In the last forty years, women have made strides to level the playing field and broken glass ceilings in corporate America. Statistics show that today’s black women are increasingly better educated and earning more money than many of their male counterparts, which speaks to the resilience, brilliance, dedication and tenacity of the black woman! But success, particularly in the entertainment field, should not be contingent upon the degradation and dishonoring of the black woman. We as black women must counteract the negative stereotypes and depictions in the media. We may not be able to control how they portray us in music, movies and television, but we most certainly can decide how we conduct ourselves in our daily lives. Author Compton Mackenzie once wrote, “Women do not find it difficult nowadays to behave like men, but they often find it extremely difficult to behave like gentlemen.” While it might not be our ultimate goal, behaving like gentlemen would at least be a start. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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March 2010 The Positive Community