Education is an Investment “Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is a fundamental resource.� -John F. Kennedy
Strong schools make strong communities. NJEA is proud to advocate for an excellent education for every child.
Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vincent Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/Research Director
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May 2010
CONTENTS 58
40
COVER STORY Curtis Farrow Builds on Gospelfest Legacy
Black Leadership Commision on AIDS
Sections Money Caton Flatbush Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Empowerment Sunday. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Digital Empowerment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Education Profile New Essex County College President. . . . . 28 Spelman College Receives $1 Million . . . . . . . . . 33 HCCI Awards Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Culture TPC Hosts Montclair Art Museum Reception . . . . 36 Sister to Sister, Empowering Each Other . . . . . . . 38 Farrow Building Gospelfest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Branch Brook Park Alliance Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Special Section: African-American Heritage Parade. . . . . . . . . . 45–52 Easter in Jamaica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Health Minority Leadership Commission on AIDS . . . . . . 58 NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch Awards . . . . . . . . . 60 Maria Davis: Living with AIDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Grief Counseling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Eye for an Eye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Newark Beth Israel’s Partners in Progress Gala . . 79
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The Positive Community May 2010
&also inside Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Op-Ed: No Excuses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Single, Saved & Satisfied . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gospel Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Ask Dr. Palmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 The Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 www.thepositivecommunity.com
You have a testimony. You want to be a blessing by displaying yours. You want to fellowship with other church choirs. Register for Verizon’s How Sweet The Sound™ 2010 www.HowSweetTheSound.com
If you think you have the best church choir in America, the stage is set for you to rock, clap and sing your way to the title at the 2010 How Sweet the Sound™ gospel celebration. Hurry! Registration ends May 17th. Visit www.HowSweetTheSound.com to show up and show out.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest entry ends 5/17/2010. Each member of choir must be 18 years of age or older as of 1/10/2010 and legal resident of U.S. and D.C. (excl. Puerto Rico & other U.S. territories). Void outside of U.S. and where prohibited by law. For a complete list of rules visit www.HowSweetTheSound.com or call 800.230.0053 to receive a copy. Image courtesy of Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images. Verizon Wireless is the sponsor of the Verizon Wireless How Sweet the Sound Choir Contest. How Sweet the Sound™ is a trademark of Hill, Holliday, Connors, Cosmopulos Inc., D/B/A Erwin-Penland. All rights reserved. ©2010 Verizon Wireless. HSTS3
C1163-PositiveCommunity 8.5x11 4C 5.1
National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Reverend Dr. Julius Scruggs, Convention President Reverend Dr. Washington L. Lundy Vice President North East Region, Director
Reverend Dr. Washington L. Lundy
Reverend Dr. Julius Scruggs
NORTHEAST REGION CONFERENCE 2010 MAY 26- 29, 2010 Hosted by Empire Baptist Missionary Convention of New York
First Baptist Church
Reverend Dr. Washington L. Lundy, President
100-10 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst, NY Reverend Dr. Patrick Young, Pastor
Hotel Information Clarion Hotel LGA Rate: $112.00 9400 Ditmars Blvd East Elmhurst, NY 800.876.2105
Courtyard by Marriott (Headquarters) Rate: $129.00 90-10 Grand Central Pkwy East Elmhurst, NY 888-850-6354 or 718-446-4800
Marriott Hotel
Rate: $139.00 102-05 Ditmars Blvd East Elmhurst, NY 800.882.1043
All rooms Single/Double/Triple/Quad occupancy Sales Tax 14.75% plus $3.50 occupancy tax Distance of all hotels from Host Church: 1 mile For Information: Contact: NBC Housing at ( 718)346-9290/ Toll free (866) 531-3003 Or Mae Henrie at (518) 527-5495
GREAT
T
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
Greater Allen Cathedral, Queens, NY Revs. Floyd and Elaine Flake, Co-Pastors
Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor
Beulah B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Gerald L. Dickson, Pastor
St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Pastor
Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Senior Pastor
Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Pastor
The Cathedral International, Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor
Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor
Essex County College, NJ New York Theological Seminary
Office of Black Ministry Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Exec. Director
St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. William L. Watley, Pastor
Rev. Ben Monroe, St. Albans, NY COGIC New Jerusalem B.C., Queens, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Pastor
General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President
Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor
United Black Clergy of Westchester Inc. Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor
Fellowship Missionary B, C,, Newark, NJ Rev. E.T. Byrd, Pastor
Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Harlem Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Pastor
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Harlem Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Pastor
Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus
Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor
Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Lucille McEwen, President & CEO
Abyssinian B. C., Harlem Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Peekskill, NY Rev. Adolphus Lacey, Pastor
Metropolitan B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor
Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor
Masjid Imam Ali K. Muslim, Newark, NJ Imam Akbar Muhammad
Newark Dist. of AME Church, Newark, NJ Howard Grant, Presiding Elder
Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Senior Pastor
First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor
St Luke B. C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Senior Pastor
Empire Missionary Baptist Church Convention of NY State Rev. Washington Lundy, President
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
First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset, NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor
Paterson’s Pastor’s Workshop Rev. Dr. James Kuykendall, President
Christian Love B..C, Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor
Nazarene Congregational Church, Brooklyn—Rev, Conrad B. Tillard, Pastor St. Paul Community B. C., Brooklyn Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor
Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, 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
New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor
Morning Star B.C. Rev. Washington Lundy, Pastor First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor
City National Bank 125th St. BID Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Schomburg Center American Diabetes Association Birdel's Tapes & Audio, Brooklyn New Jersey Performing Arts Center African American Heritage Parade Committee, NJ Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ WBGO-88.3FM WKMB-1070AM Inner City Broadcasting African American Muslims for Interfaith Relationships (AAMIR) Mildred Crump, Newark City Council American Heart Association, Northern NJ Medgar Evers College Carver Federal Savings Bank New Brunswick Theological Seminary
Businesses & Organizations
Berean B. C., Brooklyn Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor
Newark School of Theology
NAACP, NY State Conference* The Bozeman Law Firm
NAACP New Jersey*
New York Urban League
Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ. Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Senior Pastor
The United Way of Essex and West Hudson
World Gospel Music Association Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder, Newark, N.J.
University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!
The College of New Rochelle
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!
Baptists Convene in Paterson
T
he General Baptist Convention of New Jersey (GBCNJ) held its semi-annual session under the direction of President Guy Campbell at St. Luke Baptist Church in Paterson, where Rev. Dr. Kenneth D.R. Clayton is pastor and 1st vice president of the Convention. Moderator Rev. Gregory Turner of the Shiloh Baptist Association hosted the conference. The theme was “From Visions to Victory—Answering God’s Call.” The Women’s Auxiliary had their “700 Women in White” program. First Lady of the Convention, Dorothy Campbell was the keynote speaker. Lunch was sponsored by City National Bank (CNB), Horizon NJ Health, Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) and Razac. The parent body session began with a social/political action night featuring Mr. Brandon Bric, African-American outreach coordinator for Gov. Christie’s administration.
L–R: Ladonna Carroll, Community Service representative and Laticia Bailey, Community Events coordinator, Horizon NJ Health
Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, pastor of Community Baptist Church, Englewood, NJ and 2nd vice president of the Convention
L–R: Laticia Bailey, Ladonna Carroll, DeMetha Hukins, branch manager, CBN Paterson and Tanika Durham, (CTCA) Photos: Vincent Bryant
Dr. Guy Campbell
L–R: Joan English-Rollieson and Alexis Johnson representatives from Gilda’s Club Black Task Force, NNJ a cancer support network
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The Positive Community May 2010
L–R: Dr. Guy Campbell, Dorothy Campbell, Thelma Scott, Women President, Jackie Carter, 2nd VP
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Women’s Night
Men’s Night
Family Night
ch Night >>
Rev. William B. Moore Chairman Foreign Mission Board National Baptist Convention
Reverend Raiford S. Wheeler Park Avenue Christian Church-D.O.C. Servant/Teacher 1985-2010
“APPROVED BY GOD” 1 Thessalonians 2:4 (NLT) “For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News
Reverend Dr. R.S. Wheeler 25th Pastoral Anniversary Gala May 14th, 2010 - 6:00 p.m. Metropolitan Baptist Church 149 Springfield Avenue – Newark, NJ Guest Preacher: Reverend Dr. Reginald T. Jackson St. Matthew A.M.E. Executive Director Black Ministers Council of NJ ”
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guesteditorial Tiffany’s Fight BY REV. DEDRICK L. BLUE D. Min, senior pastor Ephesus SDA Church, Harlem, NY and president of Adventist against AIDS in Africa
er name was Tiffany, the sweetest nine year old girl I have ever met. She was frail and thin, but had a wide smile and wearied, sparkling eyes. I first met her when she came to my office, plopped in the chair and blurted, “Pastor, will you baptize me?” Tiffany had been from church to church but no pastor would get in the pool with her because she was dying of AIDS. Her birth mother had already died and her adopted parents knew that she was not far behind. Nine-year-old Tiffany was not only fighting for her life, she was also fighting ignorance concerning HIV. She was fighting men five times her size, fighting to find acceptance in the church. Tiffany has been gone now many years, but in the church, persons living with AIDS (PLWA’s) are still treated as the “untouchables” and the disease is considered “the unspeakable.” This is in part because people are illinformed about the disease. But here are some facts. You don’t get HIV from sitting on a toilet, sharing a utensil, shaking a hand, giving a hug, or donating blood to the Red Cross. You don’t get HIV from sitting on the same pew, singing in the same choir, or getting baptized in the same pool. HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is a blood-born disease contracted primarily through intimate sexual contact or through sharing needles with an infected person. I gladly baptized Tiffany, and stood near her while she was dying. I pledged never to forget my precious little Tiffany and her fight to have an informed response to HIV from the church. I have kept my promise to Tiffany and carried her fight to different parts of the world. I have since held in my arms hundreds of Tiffanys, as well as their dying parents, brothers and sisters, whether in the slums of
H
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Nairobi, Kenya, in rural villages in Malawi, in Jamaica, West Indies and Jamaica, New York. Yes! In New York! HIV is spreading in New York City at three times the national rate. According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (2010): • approximately 1 in 70 New Yorkers is infected with HIV, • 1 in 40 African Americans. • 1 in 8 injection drug users. • 1 in 5 black men age 40-49 in Manhattan. The epidemic is increasingly affecting women, who now constitute a third of new AIDS cases—and while Black men in New York City are 6 times more likely to die of AIDS than white men; black women are 9 times more likely to die of AIDS than white women. Like it or not, we are in a fight for survival. This disease now threatens to do what slavery, Reconstruction, and Jim Crow could not do—destroy us. As a people, we have overcome lynchings, bombings, and burnings. We have endured sit-ins, and lock ups. We fought for voting rights, housing rights, and civil rights. We have fought to sit on a bus and in classrooms. We must now fight this disease. We cannot allow this disease to steal from us all the progress that we have made and to exterminate a generation. Too often we have debated how the disease came to be, and have shunned persons because of how they contracted it. Our fight now cannot be against persons, but against disease. We have a public health crisis that requires a public health response, and a spiritual crisis requiring a spiritual response. So, it is time for the church to join hands with public health agencies to prevent the spread of this disease. Let us fight ignorance with truth. Let us continue Tiffany’s fight so that one day soon we will not only be accepting of our Tiffanys in the church, but we will not have to place our Tiffanys in the grave.
May 2010 The Positive Community
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No Excuses . . . It’s Our Turn Now! BY STATE SENATOR KEVIN PARKER nswering the call to create history is at times challenging. But if there is one lesson that history itself teaches us, it is that we cannot be BENJAMIN silent if we are to live up to the legacy of HOOKS those who have gone before us. The recent deaths of Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks, 85 and Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, 98 remind us that we are progressively losing the generation of leaders of the civil rights movement. Dr. Height, the last matriarchal icon of the civil rights era, was often described as “the glue that held the family of black civil rights leaders together.” She carried the torch of racial equality for 40 years as the president of the National Council of Negro Women. Dr. Hooks, as president of the NAACP and an all-round freedom fighter, taught us that self-determination is the essence of freedom. Together, Dr. Hooks and Dr. Height represented an incredible generation of strong-willed men and women who changed the history of this country. As they are laid to rest, we must now look toward a new generation of leaders and thinkers to take us through the next era of the struggle for civil rights. Like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the freedom fighters of the civil rights movement, Hooks and Height did their part in slaying the two-headed demon of racism and poverty. They fought the good fight with all their might. Facing our own economic empowerment monster, we must now develop a generation of strategists to carry on the movement. These are sentiments echoed by both icons who, during their lifetimes, called for help in taking the movement forward. In a published 2008 interview Dr. Height challenged young people to finish the civil rights work she helped start. ”I stress to young people that you cannot just talk about it, you have to work at it,” she said. “You have to see that there is still unfinished business.” Equally comfortable at the pulpit or the podium, Dr. Hooks used both media to throw down the gauntlet at the feet of younger generations. ”If our grandmothers and grandfathers took nothing and made something … if from nothing they created a generation of people that fire couldn’t burn out and water couldn’t drown, what excuse is there today for not moving forward?” The deaths of these two icons call on us to reaffirm our commitment to the struggle of building a more meaningful and fulfilling life for our communities. The African proverb of being able to see further than those who went before us because we stand on the shoulders of giants, has been popularized in our culture. So yes, we are proud and should celebrate the achievements of our great leaders, thinkers and inventors. Both Dr. Hooks and Dr. Height believed in an America where people can exist in their own selfhood but find a common ground on
A
the basis of respect and equality and live together socially, economically and politically. As mightily as two architectural columns, they gave us their shoulders, saying: “lean on me; learn from me.” Now, with their voices amplified by death, they tell us “we have cleared the DOROTHY path, now build a better city, a better IRENE HEIGHT state, a better America.” It’s our turn now to do so. If like Dr. Hooks and Dr. Height we are to leave our footprints in the sands of time, then we cannot drag our feet. As such, it is now our collective responsibility to create an America in which we are judged by “the content of character and not the color of our skin.” However, our efforts will be like fire on ice if we do not use the lives and experiences of these pioneers to fuel our endeavors. More so, we must be resolute in our commitment of civic engagement. You cannot be a silent observer while calling on us as elected officials to effect real change in our legislative halls. You can no longer just pay lip service while covering your mouths. In addition to the power of your vote, you can advocate and demonstrate for the causes to which you are committed. I urge you to become involved in your civic organizations, block associations and church groups. Fill out and return your census forms. Open your doors when census workers turn up. Do whatever it takes but be engaged in the democratic process and make your voices heard. In honor of Drs. Hooks and Height we must take responsibility to become curators of our own destiny. To do so, we must be bold enough, resourceful enough, creative enough, courageous enough to see opportunity where everyone else sees doom. They provided authentic leadership by being zealous advocates of racial equality. They not only talked the talk but in every facet of their lives, they did what it took to realize the day that “the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave-owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood.” Now, it’s our turn. Sixty years ago our grandparents and parents walked for a year during the bus boycotts so we could have the very rights that enable us to work in the jobs we hold today. Now it’s our turn. By sharing their wisdom and experience, Drs. Hooks and Height taught us the infinite power of patience, persistence and power. Now it’s our turn … it’s time to step up and join the chorus of voices singing a new song that we have overcome … today.
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The Positive Community May 2010
Kevin Parker is the New York State Senator representing the 21st District in Brooklyn, which comprises Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Ditmas Park, Kensington and Boro Park. He is also the majority Whip of the Senate. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Harlem YMCA
Summer Camp MY SUMMER WISH LIST. ü New Skills ü New Thrills ü New Friends
YMCA Camp. It’s what kids want for summer.
The Harlem YMCA Summer Day Camp gives children the opportunity to make new friends, develop new skills, learn core values, build self-confidence, appreciate teamwork and grow in self-reliance through supervised activities. Kids can play sports, create arts & crafts, explore science and technology, swim, participate in field trips, and discover the value of our many cultures in New York City. Harlem Y camps are a fun and happy place for kids to enjoy the summer!
er ist ! g e R ow N For more information or to apply for Financial Assistance, contact Latoya Jackson at 212.912.2162 or ljackson@ymcanyc.org. Visit www.ymcanyc.org/harlem to download the 2010 Summer Camp Brochure and registration forms. Harlem YMCA is located at 180 West 135th Street. See you soon!
Harlem School of the Arts
D
espite a fiscal and management crisis that shut it down for three weeks in early April, the highly praised Harlem School of the Arts has re-opened thanks to $1 million in grants and a declaration from songstress Mary J. Blige that she will add her financial support. Charles Hamilton, a partner in the real estate firm of La Cite Development is chair of the new fivemember board of directors. The initial $1 million dollars in grants comes from the Herb Alpert Foundation ($500,000), the Starr Foundation and others. Ephraim Emmanuel, the president of the school's parents association is also on the new board. "Yesterday, we wept," Emmanuel said. "Today, we rejoice and tomorrow... is a time to be vigilant. We cannot let this happen again." Harlem School of the Arts was founded in 1964 by internationally acclaimed soprano, Dorothy Maynor.
BE A ROLE MODEL TO YOUR FUTURE!
Special scholarships (up to 50%) for F-1 students Authorized under federal law to enroll
non-immigrant foreign students ( F-1) and issue I-20.
1-877-319-5358 www.thepositivecommunity.com
May 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.
I Remember Mama other’s Day has been designated for the month of May. But May also is a month when the weather becomes balmy. The days become longer. The smell of freshly cut grass permeates the ether. A young man’s fancy may turn to love or other things but the month is most noted for honoring mothers. What can I say about my own late mother? This extraordinary woman from Wards, SC was not quite five feet tall. She never graduated from high school, knew virtually nothing about the stock market yet she bought some stock in Colgate toothpaste back in the day. Her name was Marie Lewis. I thank God every day that He placed me in the womb of this brilliant woman who understood the value of buying real estate, not because some fast-talking TV salesman said so, but because she knew land was the only thing that increased in value down through the years. Yes, my father was wonderful, too. But this is the month to remember her. She died in November, 2004. The enemy of the mind, dementia, took her away from me, my children, her siblings, her church community and community-at-large. She was 91, don’tcha know—a perfect size 12 even when she died, with exquisite taste in furnishings and in her everyday and formal attire. Boy, was she tough! But her femininity always remained intact, so it was a few hours or days later that one realized they had been cut to shreds by a tiny woman whose petite facade belied her determination to do what she thought was right in any given situation. Was she perfect? Absolutely not. But close enough.
M
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The Positive Community May 2010
My mother and father were among the 49 co-founders of the Community Church of Love in the city of Paterson. And, today she’d be devastated to know this church is facing a sheriff’s sale. You must understand; her whole life centered around the church community, not because she had no other choice. No, indeed, she liked it like that. She also liked to entertain. Since I moved to South Jersey and kept as much as I could of her stemware and other items, I must concede that I’ve broken about two or three of her delicate stemware when I washed them. She used to let them dry upside down on a towel. On Thanksgiving Day our home was filled with both chatter and laughter when my relatives, including my maternal grandmother, aunts, uncles, cousins, et al, filed into our dining room for loving times. I don’t know what I might have become were it not for her firm, disciplined hand and wisdom to allow me to grow as an individual. When I was a kid, she saw that I used my left hand more than the right. Many said to her, “Marie, you ought to break her out of doing that.” She paid no attention and I’ve fared pretty well, left hand and all. She stood on her feet six days a week for 25 years at the U.S. Rubber factory. She was 65 when she retired and entered into a second career as a home health aide because she couldn’t stand the thought of not being active. I forced her to retire from that position when she was 80. She fought me tooth and nail but I was afraid for her to go into some of those creepy areas. Oh, I could go on and on. I see a number of young women and teenage girls who have become mothers either by accident or design and many couldn’t care less about their offspring. Thankfully, I was not placed into that kind of environment and my memories of Mama are as strong and as loving as they were the day she stopped breathing. Yes, I remember Mama. And, the memories are not in the corners of my mind but in the forefront of my consciousness . . . forever! www.thepositivecommunity.com
The Gershwins’® Porgy & BessSM by George Gershwin, DuBose and Dorothy Heyward and Ira Gershwin Photo Credit: Kelly & Massa Photography/Opera Company of Philadelphia and Cory Weaver/San Francisco Opera.
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SONJA GRACY SAVED, SINGLE & SATISFIED
“You Go, Kierra!” had a wonderful conversation recently with a young woman I’ve watched grow up from a promising, vocalist protégée to an urban gospel music heiress in her own right. Kierra “Kiki” Sheard must have been all of eleven years old when I first saw her paired with her mother in their adorable matching jean suits, replicating the crowdroaring rifts, runs and “signature squalls” that mark the inimitable “Clark sound.” Kierra’s all grown up now and highly seasoned since her solo debut CD, I Owe You. I loved talking with the young Clark prodigy about an assortment of things from her unique contribution to modern gospel to her famous family and church-reared background, her strong sense of ethics as a young Christian and hard-working Wayne State University student, youth group leader and emerging “Mamajik” clothes line designer. But it was Kierra’s beyond-her-years-wisdom about the subject of women and singleness that truly blew me away. Kierra, who’s now 22 and bears a gorgeous resemblance to her famous mother Karen—someone she says she’s “always wanted to look like”—shared openly about her singleness and the personal experiences that have inspired it. “They say women mature faster than men. I was young, but for some reason I was experiencing those types of relationships where I was getting hurt and could relate to women when they said ‘You know, he just won’t do right; he just doesn’t understand me.’ So eventually I prayed and I did as the Lord [instructed] me.” It was through God that the lovely Clark protégée says she endeavored to “learn who she was” amidst issues of insecurity and low self-esteem to ultimately understand love of self, love of God, and the true foundations for relational success. “A lot of women go through things where we have a lot of insecurities—and those insecurities can take a huge toll on our mindset. I learned how to be on my own and love who I am and get that relationship I needed with God.” Just when I thought I was filled to the brim with the rich, poignant musings of a woman with more wit about relationships than most older women I know, Kierra went on with a certified critique on what may be the primary reason for abuse and mistreatment in many of the bad relationships women harbor—fatherlessness and the absence of prior “father—daughter modeling” as a guide for positive male-
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The Positive Community May 2010
Kierra Sheard
female relating. “A lot of women who don’t have fathers need to reach out to God and say, ‘Lord, I need a relationship with You and I want You to love me first so I can know how a man is supposed to love me’” Kierra’s strong sense of self, God and awareness of her heritage steels her declaration and realization that she “knows she’s no ordinary woman,” and adds for that matter that no woman is. “The knowledge that no woman is ordinary is something I think every woman needs to know before they attach themselves to a relationship. Get to know who you are, allow God to be the ‘Lover’ of your soul, let Him be your Boyfriend first.” While much credit is to be given to this budding starlet for coming to solid terms about what the foundations of true love are; namely, love of God, love of self, self-respect and order, Kierra amply credits her parents, Bishop Drew Sheard and First Lady Karen, for instilling in her the values that have helped her become a stronger single. “My mom always says to ‘make sure the man loves God more than he loves you.’ That’s something I always remember and as I’m growing that’s what I look for. [But] first it’s about getting to know yourself and loving yourself and spending that time with you and God.” Kierra Sheard—a real winner from wise, strong, stock and a real solid chip off the ol’ Clark block. You go, Kierra! www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Good Friday A Good Day To Consider Others United Way of Essex and West Hudson and Partners Feed the Needy
L–R: Keith Green, United Way, Juanita Daily, Agape Family Worship Center and Adrian Council, The Positive Community
Photos: Vincent Bryant
O
www.thepositivecommunity.com
n Good Friday, April 2, 2010, over 250 volunteers from Agape Family Worship Center and the United Way of Essex and West Hudson joined together to distribute pre-packaged boxes of food and personal items to 400 needy families. Now in its sixth year, this annual event that takes place in the United Way’s parking lot at 303 Washington Street in Newark impacts over 400 families. In addition to the food and toiletries furnished by Feed the Children, United Way distributed various donated items such as clothing and shoes. Agape Family Worship Center is a non-denominational Christian church located in Rahway, NJ with over 4,000 members. Their mission is to proclaim and demonstrate the love of God to the world. Feed the Children is a non-profit Christian charitable organization dedicated to feeding hungry people and supplements almost 485,000 meals a day, worldwide. They deliver food to partner organizations that speed it to over 60,000 groups who work with the hungry. United Way has a network of volunteers united to help solve community problems and meet community needs building stronger communities together.
May 2010 The Positive Community
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FLATBUSH/CATON VENDORS MARKET reating economic development opportunities was one of the primary objectives of former City Councilwoman Una Clarke in her quest for a permanent market to house the street vendors on the busy Flatbush Avenue in the metropolis of Brooklyn. But there were other mitigating factors like the mayor’s crackdown on illegal street vending and the administration’s decision to stop issuing street vending permits. As the first Caribbean American elected to the New York City Council and representing a majority Caribbean constituency, Clarke held a particular passion for the small vendors who were being edged out of the competition by the established store front merchants of Flatbush Avenue. For six and one half years, she advocated and agitated for a permanent home for the vendors. Finally, on a cold January day in 2002, the doors of the FlatbushCaton Vendors’ Market opened to the public.
C
Marie Alexander in praise
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The Positive Community May 2010
By Glenda Cadogan
It was a victory won through sweat and tears. And for veteran vendors like Selwyn Branker, who for years had been waiting to exhale, it was a breath of fresh air. “It was such a blessing,” he said in summing up the experience. “It was so good to finally have a roof over my head.” As a street vendor for three years prior, Branker knew the ups and downs of this outdoor existence far too well. “It was not easy being harassed by the police every day and then having to pack up your goods to return home at the end of the day,” he said. “This is one of the main advantages of being in the market. Now, I get to close up shop when I leave for the day.” But in addition, Branker is also happy to be protected from the elements. “I can work every day of the week even in a snow storm or a thunder shower,” he said. According to Anna Walker, the interim manager of the market, the space was initially designed as a flea market. “But with the recent renovations, we are now a true mini mall,” she said. And with training available from the Department of Small Business Services and the managing agent, the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI), many of the vendors at the market have emerged as micro entrepreneurs. “They receive training in making a business plan, merchandizing, marketing and display,” Walker explained. “As such, many of them have now been able to qualify for small micro entrepreneurial loans.” Voted the Best Ethnic Market of 2009 by the Village Voice, The Flatbush-Caton Market, located at the corner of Flatbush and Caton Avenue, provides a large range of products and services that includes Caribbean spices, continued on next page
www.thepositivecommunity.com
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VENDOR’S MARKET continued from page NA
Anna Walker (center) with vendors at the Back Home Coffee Shop at the market
dressmaking, computer imaging, make-up and manicure/pedicure. “We like to boast that you can come to the market and be dressed from head to toe for any occasion,” Walker said. With some vendors moving on to owning store front businesses, Walker said that there are now applications available for new vendors. However, she emphasized that, according to city guidelines, duplication of services and products is discouraged. “Hence we have just added our new coffee shop and are looking for vendors with specialty services that will be attractive to the tourist market,” she says. The other
requirements to secure a vending permit at the Market include New York State residency and a sales tax ID. None of these were major hurdles for Marie Alexander, a popular Haitian vendor of Caribbean spices. She has been living in New York since 1980 and is one of the first tenants of the Market. In fact, Alexander remembers the years under the big tent in the backyard parking lot, which was the forerunner to the market. ”After I retired from my job I got into vending as a way of helping out my family in Haiti,” she said. In January, when an earthquake devastated her homeland, Alexander lost most of her property. But she is still thanking God that her family was spared. “I thank God for giving me peace,” she said with hands up stretched to the heavens. “My family, they are all alive but living in the back yard. I have to help them.” During the weeks after the earthquake crisis, the market became a point of focus for local relief efforts. In addition to being a drop off location, it provided a place of comfort for its many Haitian American tenants. “We had an event planned for the day following the earthquake,” Walker said. “Everything went on as planned with the inclusion of a trauma van from Downstate Medical Center arranged for by CACCI’s CEO/President, Roy Hastick. All our vendors were here,” she said. “At that time this was a place of safety. It was a place where they found solace during their time of grief. For many of them, it was and is a home away from home.”
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21
Empowerment Sunday 50 Brooklyn Ministers Preach the Same Message: Take control of Your financial Future
T
here is strength in numbers, and no better example of that strength is more evident than when preachers in 50 houses of worship deliver the same sermon on the same Sunday. That historic Empowerment Sunday took place on April 18,
At press conference announcing Empowerment Sunday: Ministers from local churches in Central Brooklyn with Rev. Dr. Robert M. Waterman, Sr. Pastor, Antioch Baptist Church and the Rev. Theresa Lindsay, Overcoming Through Holiness Church; including members from CIBS; representatives from Senator Velmanette Montgomery’s Office and Councilman Al Vann’s Office; top row center is Rhonda Lewis, president of Bridge Street Development Corp. Photo: Jacques Cornell, Happening Photos Inc.
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The Positive Community May 2010
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2010 in the Borough of Churches, Brooklyn, NY. A press conference was held on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at 11:00 AM on the steps of Antioch Baptist Church, 826 Green Avenue to make the announcement. Sixty-three percent of homeowners in New York City are facing foreclosure, loss of jobs, and have no health care. Fifty percent of that number are African American and 20% are Hispanic. Understanding the crisis those numbers represent and that churches are a powerful tool for reaching the people, the Bridge Street Development Corporation (BSDC) in conjunction with the Coalition for the Improvement of Bedford Stuyvesant (CIBS), created Empowerment Sunday to introduce resources available to support the well being of Central Brooklyn communities and encourage them to take control of their financial futures. In additon to the sermon, Empowerment Sunday was meant to move people to be proactive, so counseling sessions were also held at several churches during and after services to help with issues such as foreclosure, mortgages, affordable housing and the Obama administration’s plans to assist homeowners in foreclosure. Congressman Ed Towns, representative from
Brooklyn’s 10th District, who is an ordained Baptist minister, was the guest preacher for the day at First Calvary Baptist Church. Rev. Towns preached a powerful sermon drawing upon his experience working in Congress toward solutions to aid those affected by the crisis in the economy. According to Rhonda Lewis, president of the BSDC, the day was a successful one in that thousands heard the call to action in church—a stamp of approval for many. People are responding and intake has increased substantially. “For many years when the economy was robust, people didn’t think about these things. Now we want to teach them to save and prepare for a rainy day.” Lewis is pleased to have established the link with churches and looks forward to more involvement in the coming months. In addition to First Calvary, some of the other churches participating in Empowerment Sunday were Antioch Baptist, Bridge Street AWME, Cornerstone Baptist, First AME Zion, Metropolitan Baptist, St. Phillip's Episcopal, and The Pentecostal House of Prayer. For further information, please contact BSDC at 718-399-0146. See and hear Rev. Towns’ sermon online at www. thepositivecommunity.
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May 2010 The Positive Community
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Circles of Color
C
ircles of Color (COC) received the "Community Service Award" from the Community Seventh Day Adventist Church in Englewood, NJ. Circle of Color is a business exchange dedicated to actually doing business, as well as networking. L-R: Mistress of ceremony, Dr. Arthorine Walter; COC co-founders, Isaiah and Kayellen Jefferson; Richard Blancfield and Pastor Richard Campbell of Community Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Here Come the
Graduates!
Celebrate with us.
Send photos and bios online to editor@thepositivecommunity.com no later than Friday May21, 2010 for publication in our June issue 24
The Positive Community May 2010
www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Digital Empowerment Summit Focuses On Achieving The Full Potential Of Universal Broadband Access Bob Slade, KISS-FM news director
ADE Chairman, Juilus Hollis with Newark Mayor Cory Booker
H
undreds of New Jersey and New York residents, elected officials, dignitaries and celebrities attended the Newark Digital Empowerment Summit on Friday, April 23 at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Themed “Broadband: Closing the Economic Divide,” the summit, the first of its kind in New Jersey, focused on the JET Agenda (jobs, education and technology) unveiled by ADE Chair Julius H. Hollis as the blueprint for achieving the full potential of universal broadband access. Panelists included FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, Newark Mayor Cory A. Booker, National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial and Senator Rodney Ellis. CNN contributor Mario Armstrong, actor, author and activist Hill Harper and radio host Jacque Reid moderated the panels: “Jobs & Wealth,” “The Wireless Broadband Revolution,” and “The State of Broadband in Minority Communities.” In line with its mission, ADE helps communities like Newark understand the impact of broadband in the lives of their residents and the local economy. Mayor Booker understands.“We live in a radically changing world and ultimately what makes us successful is how powerfully connected we are,” he said. “We must ensure that every community has access to connectivity and we need to make sure that the jobs created from broadband are equally accessible. From virtual classrooms to the implementation of new police crime-fighting technology, we are embracing a bold vision of America, which is in the middle of a digital revolution.” Julius H. Hollis agreed, adding, “Seldom in the history of our democracy, perhaps with the exception being the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, have we witnessed a socio-economic phenomenon of this magnitude, which possesses a faster, innovative and more compre-
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The Positive Community May 2010
hensive ability to improve the quality of life for millions of Americans, as well as the potential to rectify the stark economic inequalities that exist between communities of color and their counterparts located in more affluent American communities.” “Altogether, 93 million Americans do not have broadband at home,” stated FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn. “And adoption rates are much lower among certain populations, including rural Americans, the elderly, persons with disabilities, low-income Americans, African Americans, and Hispanics. Among the 13 million children between the ages of five and 17 who do not have broadband at home, six million are either Hispanic or African American. These disparities won’t just disappear over time if we sit back and do nothing,” The Newark Digital Empowerment Summit occurred just weeks after the FCC released its National Broadband Plan, designed to deliver broadband access to every American. ADE's goal is to educate Americans about the benefits of new broadband technologies and to be a voice of underserved communities to raise awareness of the importance of new technologies regardless of socioeconomic status. The Alliance for Digital Equality, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, is a non-profit, nonpartisan consumer advocacy organization that serves to facilitate and ensure equal access to technology in underserved communities. The Alliance also serves as a bridge between policymakers and minority individuals in order to help the public understand how legislative and regulatory policies regarding new technologies can impact and empower their daily lives. Highlights of the Summit can be viewed by tuning in at www.alliancefordigitalequality.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Edyth Abdullah: At the Helm at ECC
By Glenn Townes
New college president focuses on faith-based initiatives
wo images of Dr. Edythe Abdullah emerge. The first is that of a brilliant educator standing tall at the helm of Essex County College (ECC) in Newark. The second is one of a woman who, despite her newness to the Brick City, is already making a mark as a community activist.
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The Positive Community May 2010
After only a month on the job, Abdullah is still settling into her new office—complete with a bird’s eye view of downtown Newark. However, she is also implementing a niche strategy of obtaining support from churches and other religious entities. She says pious affiliations, at least in part, led to her successful 25-year career in higher education—including nine as president of Florida State College in Jacksonville—-will be replicated in the Garden State—specifically at ECC. “Forming partnerships with faith-based organizations in an effort to foster higher education initiatives to young people is a priority,” Abdullah said in a recent interview with The Positive Community. “In Florida, we partnered with one of the largest historically black churches in the state and hired certified teachers to conduct summer classes and various workshops for students.” Abdullah has already received support from many members of the faith based communities she has targeted for her various initiatives at ECC. “Dr. Abdullah has long demonstrated her commitment to the community college experience and its vital role in serving the educational needs of a highly diverse student population,” said Rev. Reginald T. Jackson pastor of St. Matthew African Methodist Episcopal Church in Orange, NJ. Rev. Jackson is chairman of the Board of Trustees at ECC. Perhaps the big push for support from theologians stretches back to Abdullah’s own varied religious and political background. She is a Baptist born girl, who at one point converted to Muslim and then switched back to Baptist. On the political side, at one time Abdullah described herself as “a Republican for Obama.” However, now she says, “I was a Republican.” Despite the eclectic religious and political past, visibility and a passionate comcontinued on next page
www.thepositivecommunity.com
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EDYTH ABDULLAH continued from previous page
mitment to higher education have remained impenetrable for this talented educator. With a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Florida and undergraduate degrees in religious studies and communications from Valparaiso University in Indiana, Abdullah is not one to just sit behind a desk and delegate orders to staffers. Instead, the divorced mother of four is out and about meeting colleagues, students, community leaders and advocating the amenities of ECC. Initiatives and Challenges Abdullah’s community outreach initiatives are ambitious. For example, discussions are underway with airline carrier, Continental Airlines at Newark Airport for the college to provide specialized training for the aviation workforce—with an eye on the ever-growing area of avionics— electronics for air mechanics. Abdullah says while several issues regarding the project are still being sorted out. “The goal of the program is to assist in developing a diverse technical workforce,” she said. A second endeavor Abduallah is exploring is the Dropout Retrieval Charter High School—a program that will provide an online alternative charter high school for dropouts—-with an ultimate goal of having students not only completing high school but also transitioning to high-
www.thepositivecommunity.com
er education. Abdullah is steadfast in her belief that everyone has the right to education. For example, while in Florida she championed a move that led to Florida’s first charter dropout retrieval high school and managed to secure millions of dollars in state and federal grant funding. She is on track to establish a similar program at ECC. “The college is already recognized for providing viable alternative pathways for out of school youth,” she said. The most notable of these efforts is the Gateway to College program. Abdullah said that an aspect of the new program is to form an alliance between Rutgers University and various community colleges including ECC. She is determined to vastly improve on the high number of students that require assistance with basic math and reading skills prior to entering college. According to various sources, about 96 percent of all first time college students need remedial help. “It shouldn’t be higher than 20 percent,” she said. As for the future, Abdullah said ECC is up for state reaccreditation next year and a thorough analysis of all aspects of the college is underway. “The Essex County College mission resonates with my commitment both to educational access and to the role of the community college in facilitating student and community development in an environment of excellence,” she concluded.
May 2010 The Positive Community
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The Positive Community May 2010
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Spelman College to Receive $1 Million
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pelman College has received a $1 million grant from ExxonMobil Foundation to provide scholarships to black women pursuing technology-related degrees. The Women in Science and Engineering Scholars program is the second contribution from the company to help facilitate the recruitment, retention and graduation of black females pursuing degrees in chemistry, physics, mathematics and computer science. Along with tuition, fees, books, supplies and room and board, the scholarship will provide research training, mentoring and professional development for six students pursuing a major in one of the targeted physical science or mathematics disciplines. Selected annually as ExxonMobil Scholars, the students will participate in 10-week paid summer internships with ExxonMobil or other research-active organizations and have access to research labs at both Spelman and Georgia Tech. Spelman College is the leading producer of black females who go on to earn doctoral degrees in science and engineering,. “This generous investment will help build on that achievement by enhancing our capacity to develop and prepare women for successful leadership in the fields of math and science,” said Beverly Daniel Tatum, Spelman College president. ExxonMobil’s relationship with Spelman goes back to 1884 when company founder, John D. Rockefeller, paid off the $5,000 debt of a school for recently freed black women in Atlanta, while visiting with his wife and mother-in law. That school was later renamed Spelman College in honor of Mr. Rockefeller’s wife’s family. In addition to the Women in Science and Engineering scholarships with Spelman, ExxonMobil develops and supports programs that encourage students, specifically women and minorities, to develop a keen interest in careers in the math and science and related fields. Nationally, ExxonMobil has supported programs such as the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering, the Sally Ride Science Academy brought to you by ExxonMobil, Society of Women Engineers, and Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, among others, designed to promote engineering as a career for women. “ExxonMobil has had a long-term commitment to science and mathematics education and supports educational initiatives to encourage the next generation of engineering scholars,” said Gerald McElvy, president of ExxonMobil Foundation. For more information, visit: www.spelman.edu. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Photo : Ben Kornegay, courtesy of Spelman College
ExxonMobil Provides College with Opportunity to Chart Course for the Future
L-R: Lacey Reddix, ExxonMobil Scholar; Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, president, Spelman College; Gerald McElvy, president, ExxonMobil Foundation; Cornelia Gillyard, associate professor, Chemistry, and scholarship advisor; and Tanisha Billups, ExxonMobil Scholar.
May 2010 The Positive Community
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HCCI 8th Annual Awards Gala “Let Us Break Bread Together”
H
arlem Congregations for Community Improvement Inc. (HCCI) held its eighth Annual “Let Us Break Bread Together awards gala at Harlem’s Gospel Uptown on April 22. The evening was marked by presentations and a celebration of HCCI’s continued support of the Harlem community. Proceeds from the event will benefit the work of HCCI, a diverse interfaith consortium of more than 90 congregations, established to revitalize the physical, economic, cultural and spiritual conditions of the Harlem community. Honorees included Michelle Paige Paterson, New York State’s First Lady; Actor Keith David, Rev. Dr. Dedrick L. Blue, senior pastor, Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church; and Dr. Annie B. Martin, president of the New York NAACP Branch. Tamron Hall, MSNBC-TV anchor hosted the evening.
L-R: Lucille McEwen, Michelle Paterson and Hon. Inez Dickens
Now is a great time to become a first-time homebuyer.
L-R: Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, chair HCCI Board of Directors with NY Governor Paterson
The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers: • 30- or 40- year fixed interest rates that are typically below market; • Financing up to 97%; • Flexible underwriting guidelines; • Down payment assistance (higher of $3,000 or 3% of the loan amount or up to $10,000); • No points; • No financing add ons.
For more information, call
1-800-382-HOME (4663) or visit www.nyhomes.org
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The Positive Community May 2010
THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
L-R: Burt Reimeres, Pier McCall, Cecilia McCall, and Marci McCall with Mrs. Kay Paige and Michelle Paige Paterson
www.thepositivecommunity.com
L-R: Natasha Murphy, recipient of the Cannon Boyd Williams Scholarship Award; NY State Govenor David A. Paterson; Muriel Petioni, MD
L-R: Rev. Dedrick Blue, Dr. Joan Dawson, Dr. William Shillady and George Weldon
Dr. Annie B. Martin, Hon. Inez Dickens and Rev. Patricia Reeburg
L-R: Lynda J. Council, Bernell Grier and Dr. Joan ATS PosComChange4-5x4-5:Nyack 2/11/09 11:40 AM Page 1 Dawson
• Master
of Divinity • Master of Arts • Master of Professional Studies • Certificate Programs L-R: Seated Joyce and Hon. David N. Dinkins Standing, Rev. Dr. Calvin O Butts III and, Eugene Giscombe
An Academically Excellent education that is Socially Relevant and Personally Transforming in an environment that is Globally Engaged and Intentionally Diverse.
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE! Saturday, April 24 2010 • 11:00 a.m. Manhattan Campus, 361 Broadway, New York, NY
L-R: First Lady Michelle Page Paterson with her daughter, Ashley
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Call 800-541-6891 or visit our website at www.nyack.edu/ats to make a reservation to attend. Nyack, NY • New York, NY • www.nyack.edu/ats May 2010 The Positive Community
35
Dr. Clifford B. Janey, superintendent, Newark Public Schools and Laura Urbanelli, director, Montclair Art Museum
Culture L i fe , M u s i c , A r t & L i te r atu r e
The Positive Community Hosts Reception Montclair Art Museum’s African American Exhibit Showcased
T
he Positive Community recently teamed up with the Montclair Art Museum (MAM) to host a reception to showcase the museum’s groundbreaking exhibition, “A Force for Change: African American Art and the Julius Rosenwald Fund.” The exhibition presents the artistic products of Julius Rosenwald’s support and includes more than 60 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by 22 Rosenwald fellows, as well as an original short documentary film. The artists in the exhibition are among the foremost of their era: Elizabeth Catlett, Aaron Douglas, Jacob Lawrence, Gordon Parks, Rose Piper, Augusta Savage, Charles White, Hale Woodruff and more. The exhibit runs through July 25, 2010. The reception was sponsored by PNC Bank.
Tony Vaughn, entrepreneur & music producer, Adrian A. Council Sr., The Positive Community and Kevin Foushee, City National Bank
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The Positive Community May 2010
Photos: Vincent Bryant & Donovan Gopie
Members of the Harlem Symphony Orchestra: Orlando Wells, violin, Yemi Gonzales, violin, Tracey Dixon-Neverson, viola
Lynda J. Council, Rev. Kalil Carmichael, “The Fitness Doctor” and Terri Seeney, manager Corporate Outreach Programs, Panasonic Corporation
MAM Marketing director Michael Gillespie, Gregg Worrell, president Scholastic Children’s Book Division
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Maureen Keeting, SVP Children’s Hospital Foundation and Kate Rains, RN, admin. dir. The Molly Center for Children with Diabetes Hackensack University Medical Center
Levar Riley, owner, Lil Bo Sheep Dry Cleaners; Angela Ridenour, The Positive Community
Min. Kevin Smallwood, chef and owner Two Fish and Five Loaves; Donna Wilson, chief Audience Development Officer, Metropolitan Museum of Art and Jean Parnell, WHCR Radio
Robin Nash and her dad, Bob Nash
Valerie Fund Development Director Lori Abrams and her husband, Andy Lackow
Johnny Parham
Jamilah Bembry, The Positive Community; Tom Bryant, visiting professor, Newark School of Theology; Veronica Black, Rainbow Push/One thousand Churches Connected
Philip Thomas, exec. dir. Newark Symphony Hall; Artie Collins and Theresa deLeon, Vice Presidents at PNC Bank and J.D. deLeon, exec. dir. 21Century Leadership PAC
3 South Mountain Ave. Montclair, NJ 07042 | 973-746-5555 | montclairartmuseum.org
Through July 25
T
he first exhibition to explore the artistic legacy of the Julius Rosenwald Fund, featuring over 60 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by Rosenwald Fellows from 1928 to 1948. Organized by the Spertus Museum, Chicago. Related exhibitions: Exploring Identities: African American Works from the Collection and Martin Puryear Prints: Selections from the JPMorgan Chase Art Collection. The exhibition was made possible by a generous grant from the Terra Foundation for American Art. Major project support was also provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Righteous Persons Foundation, and The Judith Rothschild Foundation. A Force for Change: African American Art and the Julius Rosenwald Fund is presented at the Montclair Art Museum with major support from JPMorgan Chase & Co. Additional support provided by Vance Wall Foundation.
Aaron Douglas, Harriet Tubman, oil on canvas, Bennett College Art Gallery, Greensboro, NC.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
May 2010 The Positive Community
37
Sister To Sister Each Other
Empowering
by Verona Forde Dr. Hazel Dukes, George Faison and Namwiinga
George Faison directing the Duke Ellington School Choir
S
ister to Sister: One in the Spirit held its 9th Annual Empowerment and Health Conference for Women of Color at Mother AME Zion Church in Harlem on April 17. It was a day packed with speakers and entertainment, highlighting women’s issues regarding family, finance, career, health and beauty. Speakers included Rev. Brenda Davis of Paradise
You are Cordially Invited to attend Our
First Lady Sis. Christine Blackshear's Appreciation Celebration On
Sunday, May 16th, 2010 At
3:00 p.m. Greater Zion Hill Baptist Church 3265 Frederick Douglas Blvd. New York, NY 10027 (Corner of 127th Street & 8th Avenue)
R.S.V.P to: Sis. Willie Mae Anderson (646) 221-0461 or
Deaconess Benita Stembridge (646) 238-0818
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The Positive Community May 2010
Baptist Church on “Healing Your Inner Spirit;” Dr. Catherine Fisher Collins of SUNY Empire State on women and incarceration; Dr. Hazel Dukes, president of the New York NAACP on black women in business and government; and New York’s First Lady, Michelle Paterson on health and fitness for women and children. Other highlights included the panel discussion, “Divas Uncorked: Sharing the Wisdom of Our Hearts” featuring Dr. Melva J. Hayden, senior attorney and Assistant Regional Counsel of the EPA; Dr. Fran Cook-Bolden, director of the Skin Specialty Group and the Ethnic Skin Specialty Group; Dr. LaJoyce Brookshire, a doctor of Naturopathic Ministry, and Dr. Kim Nichols, a dermatologist. City National Bank of New Jersey’s Corby Ellis-Mare shared ideas to help kids know how to handle and save money; Jamie Hubert from Prudential Financial spoke about long-term care; Rev. Rosie Jackson of St. Catherine AME Zion Church, Lillian Johnson from Creative Elegance and Alfred Fornay of the Alfred Fornay Institute also covered various topics of interest to the many women in attendance, and Terri McFarlane from the Witness Project shared her personal story of surviving breast cancer. Entertainment was provided by SAGE, an all women jazz, blues and contemporary ensemble, the Duke Ellington School Choir under the direction of George Faison and singer Samuel Bonds. Ladies were also able to shop with black female venders including Merchant Enterprises, Shelley’s Quality Lingerie, Latasia Fine Fashion Jewelry and Clo-vee organic body products. Sister to Sister: One in the Spirit has also partnered with Bushikori Christian Centre in Mbale, Uganda. Explained Founder and CEO, Yvonne Singleton Davis, it is a humanitarian venture “in order to make a positive difference in the corner of our world, one beautiful sister at a time.” For more information, visit "www. sistersoneinthespirit.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Mayor Cory A. Booker (right) and Nets legend Darryl Dawkins (left).
Newark Gets Nets! NBA basketball team will play at Prudential Center
S
tanding on a mock basketball court, Mayor Cory A. Booker welcomed the New Jersey Nets to their new home at the Prudential Center in downtown Newark at a press conference there in March. The state’s premiere NBA franchise will make its home at “The Rock” for the 2010-2011 and 20112012 basketball seasons. Nets legend Darryl Dawkins and Mayor Booker christened the Nets’ home court playing a little one-on-one, but Dawkins, better known to Nets fans as “Sir Slam,” “Dr. Dunkenstein,” and “Chocolate Thunder,” was unable to stop Mayor Booker from scoring a slam dunk.
L-R: Newark Regional Business Partnership President & CEO Chip Hallock, NBA Deputy Commissioner and COO Adam Silver, New Jersey Nets Power Forward Kris Humphries, Mayor Booker, New Jersey Nets CEO Brett Yormark, New Jersey Devils Chairman and Managing Partner Jeff Vanderbeek, Devils Arena Entertainment Partner and Vice Chairman Mike Gilfillan and Ian Eagle, the YES Network’s playby-play TV announcer, who served as the Master of Ceremonies.
More than 3.5 million fans have attended events at the Prudential Center since its opening in October 2007 which is also home to the New Jersey Devils. The Nets move is anticipated to bring even more fans to “The Rock,” as well as 700 jobs to Newark. The Nets announced that they will offer discount season tickets to Newark residents. For more information, go to www.njnets.com. The census worker will NEVER ask enter • •The census worker NEVER toto enter • The census worker willwill NEVER askask to enter • The census your home. worker will NEVER ask to enter your home. youryour home. home. • ASK to see their ID. All census workers • ASK to see their All census workers • ASK to see their ID.ID. All census workers • carry ASK to see their ID. All census workers carry official government badges marked official government badges marked carrycarry official government badges marked official government badges marked with just their name. with their name. with justjust their name. with just their name. The census taker will NOT request your • •The census taker NOT request your • The census taker willwill NOT request your • immigration The censusstatus, taker will NOT request your immigration status, social security number, social security number, immigration status, social security number, immigration status, social security number, income request any documents from you. income oror request any documents from you. income or request any documents from you. income or request any documents from you. The census taker WILL ask for your name, • •The census taker WILL your name, • The census taker WILL askask for for your name, • date The census taker WILL ask for your name, date of birth, phone number, and the of birth, phone number, datedate of birth, phone number, andand thethe ofofbirth, phone number, and names of the people who live withthe you to names the people who live with names of the people who live with youyou to toto names of the people who live with you make sure everyone is counted only once. make sure everyone is counted only once. make sure everyone is counted only once. make sure everyone is counted only once. canmake makea adifference. difference.Being Beingcounted counted Youcan You can can make a difference. Being counted You make a money difference. Being counted You helps NYC get the to provide education helps NYC the money to provide education helps NYC getget the money to provide education helps NYC get the money to provide education and health services, housing and jobs for you, health services, housing and jobs for you, andand health services, housing and jobs for you, and health services, housing and jobs for you, your family and your community for the next 10 your family your community the next your family andand your community for for the next 10 10 your family and your community for the next 10 years! years! years! years!
Didn’t send back your Didn’t send back your Didn’t send back your Didn’t send back your form? Census-2010form? form? Census-2010 Census-2010 form? Census-2010 Please open your door to Please open your door Please open your door toto Please open your door to the Census taker! the Census taker! the Census taker! the Census taker!
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Worried or have Worried have Worried oror have Worried or have questions? questions? questions? questions? Call 311 Call 311 Call 311 Call 311 May 2010 The Positive Community
39
PC_Mag_Mayo_10_v4_FOR_PRINTER:PC_Mag_Feb06.qx5 5/6/10 3:43 PM Page 30
Gospelfest
2010
“It’s God Show” BY R.L. WITTER
Curtis Farrow
A. Curtis Farrow and his team are marking the days on the calendar, counting down to June 19th in anticipation of the annual event that brings together thousands of people to hear up-and-coming artists and established musical legends perform. More than 80,000 people have auditioned with hopes of being discovered or even just included in the renowned talent competition, and thousands of others are thrilled just to be present and enjoy the talent that will be displayed before them. There will be at least one new face at the judges’ table and they will have their work cut out for them in deciding upon a winner. While it might sound as though American Idol is coming to Newark, NJ, it isn’t—at least not on June 19th. No, this is a different talent competition. This is one that has been around for 27 years and features several singers who can bring “chuuch” to the audience. This is McDonald’s Gospelfest, a tradition if not an institution. This is the chance for the best choirs, singers and praise dancers to show out and bring it like only they can. It is a family event with something for everybody and no one needs to worry about explicit lyrics or scantily-clad vixens because McDonald’s Gospelfest simply ain’t that type of show. What type of show is it? Producer A. Curtis Farrow will tell you that it is “an act of God.” Remember that phrase as it might be useful when giving apologies and making
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The Positive Community May 2010
excuses…I personally have some relatives who got dressed last year to attend a wedding ceremony and reception, but “stopped by” Prudential Arena to check out the choirs for a bit on the way to the celebration. The competition began at three o’clock and the wedding ceremony wasn’t until five, so they had plenty of time to hear a joyful noise and then continue on to the aforementioned nuptials—or so they thought. The competition was so fierce and the music was so good, they decided “…we’ll skip the ceremony and go straight to the reception, so we can stay a little longer.” Once the concert started, that wedding reception didn’t stand a chance! They couldn’t leave without seeing Patti LaBelle perform, so they enjoyed the music, got their praise on and sent the wedding gift in the mail. True story. Farrow and his team, Irving Street Rep, have been producing McDonald’s Gospelfest for more than ten years now, so if anybody knows what to expect, it’s him, and he is promising an unforgettable show. “Things are going extremely well so I’m feeling happy and blessed,” he revealed. “There is a choir from Canada that is simply magnificent and one out of Jacksonville, FL—they are incredible! There is also a serious contender from Philadelphia, so the ‘Out of Town’ competition is going to be great, but really hard for the judges. I try not to pick a favorite because I want them all to do really well; they’re all my babies,” he explained. After so many years of producing the show, one would think that Farrow’s team might be on autopilot, resting
www.thepositivecommunity.com
0
PC_Mag_Mayo_10_v4_FOR_PRINTER:PC_Mag_Feb06.qx5 5/6/10 3:43 PM Page 31
on their laurels and cruising through the process. Not so, explained Farrow; “It is more work this year because we’ve got some new things in the program and even more legendary performers. Anyone who has seen McDonald’s Gospelfest knows that every year it gets bigger and better. Every year there is something special and something different.” That’s no empty promise or exaggeration as this year’s concert lineup reads like a who’s who of gospel music and adds a few unexpected twists. Hometown favorites and cousins, Cissy Houston and Dionne Warwick will be making their triumphant return to the Gospelfest stage, as will Hezekiah Walker and Vickie Winans. “Bishop T.D. Jakes will take us to another level,” beamed Farrow. “We’ve never had a message or the Word be a part of the Gospelfest before, so this is the first year.” He continued, “It’s important for people to know that Bishop Jakes will go on at five fifteen on the dot, because some people plan to come later on in the evening for the show. The competition will begin at three and Bishop Jakes will go on at five fifteen. I think people will be amazed at how they are going to leave with such of gift of celebration and so much anointing. He is excited about this and knows it is the first time, so he is going to lay it down!” The performer who might be somewhat unexpected is Roberta Flack. Known for her lush ballads and soft, crystal clear vocals, Ms. Flack may not yet be synonymous with gospel music. Farrow predicted of her performance, “She is going to usher in such a spirit that we are going to have to call in nurses from different churches in the area to help us out!” Farrow went on to give us a hint of what to Roberta Flack expect saying, “She’ll be singing ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ and what better song could she sing during these times we’re facing right now?” In addition to the singing and the message fans will receive, the Praise Dancing competition will be memorable. “The praise dance category has really lifted Gospelfest and gospel music because praise dance is so popular now that every church that I know of now has a praise dance group or team—every one,” Farrow avowed. “Whether it’s liturgical, mime, T.D. Jakes standard, modern or hip hop, they all have a praise dance group.” More than 40,000 praise dancers auditioned for Gospelfest this year and only the best will make it to the stage in Newark.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Cissy Houston
Dionne Warwick
Hezekiah Walker
Farrow also wanted to remind people that the gospel greats will deliver songs and possibly even a few souls at Gospelfest. “Hezekiah Walker—he always brings it to the table and we know that Regina Belle, J Moss, Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson and Kurt Carr & The Kurt Carr Singers are going to bring it, too.” Beyond McDonald’s Gospelfest being an all-day family affair filled with praise, song and dance, it is also a scholarship program for the community that helps minority students get and stay in college and complete their educations with $5,000 scholarships. “It is the number one scholarship program in the McDonald’s system,” explained Farrow. “It speaks to McDonald’s commitment to the community. Nobody else can say they’ve been in the community for 27 years, but McDonald’s has. That’s what they’re all about, community.” So circle the date on your calendar or program it in your phone, PDA or Blackberry. June 19, 2010 promises to be a day to remember at Newark’s Prudential Center. Cancel your hair appointment, hold on to that “new outfit” money and send your regrets to any other invitations you may receive. Plan to be there at 3:00 and don’t plan to leave until the last foot has stomped and the last voice has shouted. You won’t make it to that barbeque, birthday or wedding that day because you’ll be singing and rocking with Curtis Farrow and thousands of other McDonald’s Gospelfest fans. Get your tickets to see Bishop Jakes’ show, Cissy Houston’s show, Dionne Warwick’s show or Roberta Flack’s show. Get out of your seat for Hezekiah Walker, Kurt Carr or Regina Belle’s show. Get there by any means necessary because you can’t miss this show. Said Curtis Farrow, “It is God’s show, it really is.” Don’t miss the special “2 for 1” ticket offer for McDonald’s Gospelfest in Newark, NJ at the Prudential Center! Through May 15, order tickets online through Ticketmaster or in person at the box office and use the codeword “MOM” to receive one free ticket for each $75.00 or more ticket you purchase! From May 15-May 23, use the codeword “THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY” at the box office only, to receive the same 2 for 1 offer! May 2010 The Positive Community
41
Cherry Blossoms Star at Branch Brook Alliance Gala
E
Essex County Executive Joeseph DiVincenzo and Micheline Davis, St. Barnabas Healthcare System Photos: Vincent Bryant and Shelly Kusnetz
ssex County Branch Brook Park’s flowering cherry tree collection, now restored to its place as the largest and most varied in the nation, was unveiled at the Branch Brook Park Alliance’s 10th Annual Cherry Blossom Gala on April 13, 2010, at Nanina’s in the Park in Belleville. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. received the Civic Award of Caring for his initiative in undertaking the five-year long restoration. New Jersey Devils and the Prudential Center’s Jeff Vanderbeek and Michael Gilfillan received the Corporate Award of Caring for their support of the design and oversight of the project. The restoration was triggered by a tree inventory commissioned by the BBPA in 2004 that discovered the original collection was down to less than 1,000 trees. The Park now boasts 4,000 trees in 14 varieties—more than are in Washington D.C. The collection builds on the original 1928 gift of 1,985 trees by Caroline Bamberger Fuld. The latest additions with masses of trees in naturalistic settings and a lengthy blooming cycle fulfill her vision of a display surpassing that in the nation’s capital.
Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura; Gloria Buck, Assemblywoman Speaker Sheila Oliver
Governor Chris Christie and Louis Prezeau, president, City National Bank
L–R; Calvin West, Gabe Laconte and Jean Nash Wells, The Positive Community
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The Positive Community May 2010
Barbara Bell Coleman and 2009 Cherry Blossom Dinner Chair Angelo Genova
Branch Brook Park Alliance trustee Robert Curvin, Ph.D and wife, Pat
Branch Brook Park Alliance Trustee Maria Vizcarrondo and her husband, William Vasquez with Teresa Ruiz, NJ State Senator
Gloria Buck, trustee with Mary Sue Sweeney Price, director, Newark Museum
www.thepositivecommunity.com
PC_Mag_Mayo_10_v4_FOR_PRINTER:PC_Mag_Feb06.qx5 5/6/10 3:55 PM Page 16
THE POSITIVE POSI T IVE E COMMUNI COMMUNITY TY
Gospel T Top o op 10 0 Rank Rank
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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Marvin Sapp p
6 ERITY E 6ERITY 2ECORDS Her Here e I Am 2ECORDS Bishop Paul S. Morton ,IGHT Cry Your Last Tear Fred Fr ed Hammond Hammo ond 6ERITY 6 ERITY E 2ECORDS 2ECORDS Love Unstoppable U Donnie McCurklin 6ERITY Wait on the Lord 2ECORDS BeBe & CeCe e Winans -ALACO Still Williams Bros. Blackberry Still Here The Joy Wonders Won nders CSS Production I Ha Had ad a Pr Problem oblem Production The Echoaires Ecko Transformation Hezekiah Walker Walker a 66ERITY EERITY 2ECORDS Souled Out 2ECORDS Barnes Family Reunion !IR Vol. I & II 'OSPEL
NEW CDs CD s TO T W WATCH! ATCH! Farrell Farrell McFadden Untouc Untouchable chable Isaiah 54.17 Wiilson Brian Courtney Wilson
All I Need
James Fortune & Fia F
Encore Encore
#OMPILED BY P Y
Birdel’s Bi r del’ s Tapes Tapes a s & Audio Inc.
535 Nostrand Avenue Avenue v Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY FOR THE BEST IIN N GOSPEL MUS MUSIC IC
(718) 63 638-4504 38-4504 Brooklyn’s Brooklyn’s s #1 # Soul Shop
www.thepositivecommunity.com
BY PATRICIA BALDWIN KIRK WHALUM—THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JAZZ CHAPTER III
Grace and Peace! t almost 8:00 p.m. on a spring evening in New York, Mr. Kirk Whalum called me to make sure I was alright. After explaining that I was fine, a little behind schedule and just entering the building, I thought to myself, “Wow that speaks volumes right there—of a humble man, a gentleman who is filled with the love of God.” I was excited to meet the eight-time Grammy nominated, two-time Stellar Award winning tenor sax minstrel and influential man of God. He’s known for recording with singing legends like Nancy Wilson, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Barbara Streisand—the list goes on and on. He has performed on soundtracks for successful movies such as Boyz N the Hood, Grand Canyon, Prince of Tides and The Bodyguard (oh by the way, he toured with Whitney Houston for seven years). Currently, Mr. Whalum is promoting his highly anticipated new 2-disk CD, The Gospel According to Jazz III and was kind enough to sit down with me for an interview.
A
continued on page 57 May 2010 The Positive Community
43
Gran Piatta d’Oro host GHCC’s Round Robin Summer 2010
It's Gonna Be
HOT! ON SALE NOW!
Voza Rivers, GHCC with Natalie Clarke Photos: Seitu Oronde
Patti LaBelle Saturday • June 5 • 8 pm ON SALE NOW! Amy Kiros, owner Gran Piatto d’Oro, Winston Majette, GHCC and Gilberto Petrucci
Donna Summer
Wednesday • August 25 • 8 pm Tickets at mayoarts.org Box Office • (973) 539-8008 100 South Street, Morristown, NJ Connect with us on
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The Positive Community May 2010
T
he Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) held their monthly "Round Robin" event at the Gran Piatto d’Oro restaurant on April 26. The Round Robin, an extension of GHCC’s popular Joints are Jumping promotion encourages Harlem business owners and individuals to support restaurants in their community. In addition to the delicious Italian cuisine at Gran Piatto d’Oro patrons were treated to musical entertainment by Keith "The Captain" Gamble and his band, courtesy of Harlem Arts Alliance. The Round Robin will continue at various restaurants in Harlem through August. The next event is scheduled for the Lenox Lounge on Monday, May 24th from 6pm to 8:30pm, located at 288 Malcolm X Blvd. For more information visit greaterharlemchamber.com. www.thepositivecommunity.com
SPECIALAAHPCSECTION Message from the Chairman
W
e thank God for His gifts of willingness and perseverance. My late mother, Jean L. Bernard’s, credo was never more applicable in my life than in the past year. For her words were my driving force, “keep moving forward.” It is only through these blessings that we’re embarking upon the 44th Anniversary of our Heritage Celebration. During this period of austerity, political campaigns and financial ruin, securing sponsorships in New Jersey has been the most challenging to date. Nevertheless, the joy is in the journey.
There is no coincidence that our 2010 theme is “Ujamaa… Cooperative Economics… We Need Each Other.” In order for our Committee’s Calendar of Events to thrive, in perpetuity, our most viable Anchor Sponsor must become the African American Community itself. We as a people need to examine the necessity for cooperative economics and building wealth in our communities. Families continue to miss out on the American dream because they fail to start early on with a plan of financial solvency. As generations have come and gone, many have obtained a higher degree of financial comfort, but the majority of African Americans still need to be educated concerning cooperative economics, community economic development and wealth building. Without the support of the New Jersey Education Association as our Premier Sponsor we could not have implemented our traditional and highly anticipated Calendar of Events. We are extremely enthusiastic with securing the participation of the US Census. We have worked in partnership with them to highlight their “It’s In Our Hands” Campaign.”It is serendipitous that God guided us to our theme this year before we knew of the Census theme, which is conceptually aligned for the betterment of our community. We also received key support coming from Wachovia Bank, Saint Barnabas Health Care System, Optimum, Fedway Associates and AARP. Given the austere economic climate we are experiencing, we salute these sponsors for providing the resources required for our Committee to continue implementation of a first class celebration of our heritage and culture. We also thank our media partners for publicizing and covering our events. These sensitive partners are Kiss FM, Hot 97, WBLS 107.5, Cablevision and The Positive Community Magazine. In closing, I pray God’s blessing upon all who gather for this year’s celebration in person, watch the Cablecast or listen to the WBLS radio broadcast. This year we endeavor to educate and encourage our community to embrace cooperative economics. We salute our Co-Grand Marshall’s, Mary Evelyn Singleton and Isabel Hughes (posthumously) and entrepreneur extraordinaire Feldman “Mootsie” Middleton for their tireless, committed and selfless service to our community. Peace & Godspeed, Donald Bernard, Sr. Chairman, African American Heritage Parade Committee, Inc Board
of
Trustees
Donald Bernard, Sr. Diane Lewis Carol Boyd Will J. Heard Khary Orr* Shawii Johnson Howard J. Scott Bridgette Turner Yolanda Van Fleet
Technical Advisors Linda W. Brashear Karen Waters
Dianthe Dawn Martinez Carl Sharif
*posthumous
www.thepositivecommunity.com
May 2010 The Positive Community
45
SPECIALAAHPCSECTION
When families and When families and schools work schoolsour work together... children together... our children are the winners!
are the winners!
NEW JERSEY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
Joyce Powell, President
NEW JERSEY EDUCATION ASSOCIATION Barbara Keshishian, Vice President
Wendell Steinhauer, JoyceSecretary-Treasurer Powell, President Vincent Giordano, Executive Director Barbara Keshishian, Vice President Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/ Wendell Steinhauer, Secretary-Treasurer Research Director
Vincent Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/ Research Director 46 The Positive Community May 2010
www.thepositivecommunity.com
SPECIALAAHPCSECTION
2010 African American Heritage Statewide Parade dedicated to Earl Graves, Sr.
Founder, Black Enterprise Magazine The promotion of Graves Jr. to CEO represents the transition of Earl G. Graves Ltd. to the next generation of leadership. His formal title is president and CEO. Graves was an administrative assistant to the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy from 1965 to 1968. After Senator Kennedy’s assassination, Graves formed his own management consulting firm to advise corporations on urban affairs and economic development. His firm’s clients included major multinational companies. In 2002, Fortune magazine named Graves one of the 50 most powerful and influential African Americans in corporate America. He holds a seat on the board of selectors of the American Institute for Public Service, the Advisory Council of the Character Education Partnership, the board of the Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, the board of The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, and the national advisory board of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. He is also a trustee of Howard University, the Committee for Economic Development, the Special Contributions Fund of the NAACP, and the New York Economic Club. Graves was appointed to serve on a presidential commission for the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and was a civilian aide to the secretary of the U.S. Army from 1978 to 1980. m e ric a n H e
ri t
e
Af
ri
AAHP Salutes the 2010 Grand Marshalls
nA
ag
ca
Pa
ra
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arl G. Graves Sr. is the founder and publisher of Black Enterprise magazine and a nationally recognized authority on black business development. In 1972, he was named one of the 10 most outstanding minority businessmen in the country by the president of the United States and received the National Award of Excellence in recognition of his achievements in minority business enterprise. He is also listed in Who’s Who in America and was named one of 200 future leaders of the country by Time magazine in 1974. Today he is chairman of Earl G. Graves Ltd., parent corporation of Earl G. Graves Publishing Co., publisher of Black Enterprise magazine—a business-service publication targeted to black professionals, executives, entrepreneurs, and policy makers in the public and private sector. Black Enterprise magazine has been profitable since its 10th issue and yearly sales are steadily increasing. The magazine has a paid circulation of 525,000 with a readership of more than 3.9 million. It is carried on board most major airlines and can be found on newsstands nationwide. Since 1997, the magazine has been a five-time recipient of the FOLIO: Editorial Excellence Award in the business/finance consumer magazine category. In January 2006, Graves named his eldest son, Earl “Butch” Graves, the company’s new chief executive officer.
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Feldman “Mootsie” Middleton Isabel Jeanne Hughes*
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*Posthumous
Mary Evelyn Singleton*
May 2010 The Positive Community
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US Navy Band Makes First Visit to Newark In Honor of Master Chief Carl. M. Brashear
Photos highlighting Lauren Brashear sponsor (grand daughter) of the USNS Carl Brashear pictured with Admiral Gary Roughhead Photos: Courtesy of General Dynamics Nassco
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ne of Navy Band Northeast’s premier ensembles, Navy Band Northeast’s Marching Band consists of 40 highly talented professional Navy Musicians. Whether marching down 5th Avenue in New York City, or performing at military graduations and ceremonies, the Marching Band performs for an 11-state area of responsibility and is sure to instill pride and patriotism during each and every performance! Under the direction of Lieutenant Carl Gerhard and led by Drum Major, Petty Officer First Class Ryan Hudson, Navy Band Northeast’s Marching Band personifies the quality and professionalism of today’s United States Navy.
Mayor Cory Booker and other dignitaries as tributes are paid to Parade Honoree Master Chief Carl M. Brashear
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Cooperative Economics...
UJAMMA We Need Each Other
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May 2010 The Positive Community
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May 2010 The Positive Community
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Newark Watershed Conservation & Development Corporation
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NJ College Promise
Action Network
Our Voices, our future... a stronger New Jersey The College of New Jersey
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NEW NEWJERSEY JERSEY NEEDS STRONG, STRONG, AFFORDABLEST S NEW JERSEY NEEDS STRONG, AFFORDABLE STATENEEDS COLLEGES & AFFORDABLE UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITIES UNIVERSITIES
New NewJersey Jersey College Promise PromiseActio Acti New Jersey College Promise Action Network is a grassroots effortCollege to promote promote affordability, affordability, quality quality and and op promote affordability, quality and opportunity at the nine state colleges and and universities, universities, including including Montclai Montcl and universities, including Montclair State University.
Membership Membership thenetwork networkisisfree freea Membership in the network is free and open to students and adultininthe residents theGarden GardenState. State.AsAs residents of the Garden State. As a member, you willresidents receive ofofthe information, information, periodic periodicaction actionalerts alertsa information, periodic action alerts and invitations to special events. Your Youradvocacy advocacy isisneeded neededtotosuppo supp Your advocacy is needed to support Montclair State University’s future. Thank you in advance, Shivaun Gaines Director of Government Relations Montclair State University
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May 2010 The Positive Community
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Good Friday Service at Webster Memorial United Church
My Easter In Jamaica
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or longer than I care to remember, I have wanted to produce a documentary on African American worship traditions. While my work on the subject has been published in several books and a number of articles, I had long abandoned any hope for my dream project. Then, a friend who heads the Caribbean International Network, a New York City cable programmer, latched on to the idea. He thought that the theme would appeal to his audience and suggested that I produce a series of short segments on worship in Jamaica over Easter. Although I had only a few weeks to plan, I jumped at the offer. Our production team was from the Caribbean International Network’s ZYNC TV’S NEW YORK LINKZ. It was comprised of Director Eion Saunders and host KaSheba “KaJa” Johnson; I served as producer. Jamaicans are a religious people with more churches per capita than any other country. Though all major faiths are rep-
Text and photographs by Bob Gore
resented, it is overwhelmingly Christian and predominately Protestant. Good Friday and Easter are the most celebrated days on the Christian calendar with special observances taking place all over the island. Our work focused on five events offering a unique sampling of the faith and traditions of this island paradise. Our first shoot, at Webster Memorial United Church, was the Good Friday morning service and presentation of “The Cross for all Seasons,” a musical drama about the crucifixion. It was an elaborate, full costumed program, led by an ensemble of clergy from other congregations and the Jamaican Council of Churches. Later in the morning the production team attended a filled-to-capacity musical service at Pentecostal Tabernacle. With an extensive repertoire and ample soloists, the choir sang no less than fifteen selections from top arrangers and ensembles, ranging from James Cleveland and Donnie McClurkin to Thomas A. Dorsey. Bishop
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On Good Friday evening we visited the Kingston Parish Church to attend “Call to the Cross,” a compelling musical with a cast of seventy performers, produced and written by Professor Thomas Hope with support from St. Margaret’s Church in Liguanea. The setting was magnificent; a gothic edifice with forty-foot columns and massive archways on each side the sanctuary. The pastor, Bishop Don Taylor, dedicated the proceeds from the performance to children’s programs in the Kingston area. The Bishop is well known from his years of service in New York City. On Saturday we attended the weekly celebration held by the Rastafarian School of Vision, one of the major divisions in the faith. It was held in Papine Square, one of Kingston’s bustling shopping areas. Each week the faithful from the region gather for a three-hour ceremony incorporating robust chanting, scripture readings, singing and drumming. It was a warm and inviting family observance open to all. For those unfamiliar with this tradition, author Howard Campbell provides a brief insight: “Jamaica is the home of Rastafarianism, a religious movement spurred by the beliefs of famous Jamaican Marcus Garvey and inspired by an Ethiopianist reading of the King James Bible. Rastafarian beliefs are Christian, with a Jamaican twist. Ethiopian Prince (Ras) Tafari is at the center of the religion; Rastafarians believe him to be the messiah. In 1932 Tafari was crowned emperor [taking the name] Haile Selassie. Selassie himself claimed lineage from the biblical Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. Garvey’s followers proclaimed him to be a prophet, as he had spoken of an Ethiopian leader who would take control and who would be the messiah. Selassie became their messiah, having ascended to the throne as Garvey predicted.”
Bishop Don Taylor www.thepositivecommunity.com
The Cross for All Seasons”
Easter Sunday began with the six o’clock performance by the National Dance Theater of Jamaica. The program, “Morning of Movement and Music,” was choreographed by Rex Nettleford and directed by Barry Moncrieffe. It was dedicated to the recently deceased Mr. Nettleford, the cultural icon and scholar who founded the Dance Theater and who served as its artistic director. The eighty-minute performance incorporated music, historic themes and stunning costumes from Jamaican and African American history. “This sold out, sunrise program has become a tradition for many families,” observed Bridgette Casserly, who has volunteered with the dance company for more than thirty years. She added, “I believe the dancers put forth an even greater effort to memorialize Rex.” Our worship tour culminated with Easter service at one of my favorite houses of worship, James Mountain Church of God of Prophecy in Sligoville, where Pastor Walsh and the congregants greeted us like family. This small church with a big spirit is situated atop a scenic plateau in the countryside of St.Catherine Parish, an hour outside of Kingston. This was my second visit to this rural church in the in the past few months; some readers may recall my recent article on it for this publication. Following the service, Ms. Walsh, the church’s first lady, served our production team bun and cheese, a traditional Easter treat. The trip was a joy and success. Stephen Hill, CIN’s CEO, the person who made it all possible, put it this way, “CIN is proud to document the unique aspects of Jamaican life and this is one our most important projects. In our individual ways we are a very faithful people. Easter is a time to share our worship experiences with one another and with the world.”
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The Riverside Theatre, Voza Rivers/New Heritage Theatre Group and Walk Tall Girl Productions present the New York Premiere of
GET YOUR COPY or send a gift to a friend...
Written and performed by Obie Award Winner Daniel Beaty Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright Daniel Beaty gives voice to a community of men, those who love them, and what it means to be black and male in America. Opening Night May 7, 2010 at 8pm Distinguished Guest Dr. William “Bill” Cosby The Riverside Theatre 91 Claremont Ave at 120th St (One block west of Broadway) Special Previews May 4, 5, 6 at 7pm Performances May 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 at 8 PM • Saturday, May 8, 15, 22 at 3PM Sunday, May 9, 16, 23 at 3PM General Admission $20.00 Purchase tickets 212 870 6784 or www.theriversidetheatre.org
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A family publication you’ll be proud to have in your home...read about the progress and development of the contemporary church community, plus entertainment, health, education, reviews, business, and much much more...delivered monthly. Join the Roll Call to progress. For bulk delivery to your church or organization. Call 973-233-9200 Send check or money order to: The Positive Community, 133 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042 Subscribe online at www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Gospel Train from page 43
He (Whalum) has performed on soundtracks for successful movies such as
Boyz N the Hood, Grand Canyon, Prince of Tides and The Bodyguard (oh by theway, he toured with Whitney Houston for seven years). He approached me with a beautiful smile and outstretched arms; his greeting was very sincere. He exudes humility, love and a hip, relaxed swagger that’s cool. TPC: It is indeed an honor to finally meet the legendary jazz all around minstrel. You can tell that this CD is family oriented and sealed with love. Thank God for the connection and you being their foundation for the family. KW: There are artists that make administrative decisions, but I on the other hand wanted my family, my closest friends to just get together and jam. This is really special and it took (kind of) courage because some would say it’s kind of obnoxious to use just your family, but they delivered the goods and it was a blessing. My family are my inspirations and they have a voice that the world should take notice of; I’m proud of them. I have my two nephews (Kenneth Whalum, III and Caleb, The Bridge); my brother who sings with Lalah Hathaway (Kevin Whalum); my uncle (Hugh “Peanuts” Whalum), who plays the trumpet and is a singer who has that unorthodox gospel sound—like Nat King Cole. Many people ask me how my music is building the kingdom with no lyrics. I have to tell them (for the world) before it (music) gets into your heart; it has to go through your ears to your brain. But gospel music can detour and go through your ears into your heart and prepares the person’s heart to receive the truth of the gospel. When we pray, we believe that it’s breaking up the fallow ground so that when someone ministers to them in words, it’s that much easier to accept. TPC: What took so long to get to Chapter III, which was due in 2008? KW: I have so many projects going on at the same time— then you have to raise the money to do it, because this was self initiated. Chapter I was born out of a grieving period from being dropped from Columbia records. It was 12 years, and then I was dropped unceremoniously. My wife was a minister for me, because I was going to have a pity party and she called and asked me, what can you do now, that you couldn’t do on the label? And I wanted to give the word and tell the world that God is good to me. The Baptist www.thepositivecommunity.com
convention was a big contributor to this ministry. Also, I don’t multi-task very well, I need to finish one thing before doing the next. TPC: Being a PK (preacher’s kid), it took a lot of roads to get to this place to know your calling. On the last song “Running Away,” you give a personal testimony. What was the influence of that song and the secular songs and how did you make them minister? KW: Actually that’s Kevin again. He wanted to off the top of his head just minister to the people that it doesn’t matter where you came from, you can come back right where you are. Come to Christ and He will accept you and love you. Most “closer” songs are very mellow and laid back. There is an exception to this rule, (in Jazz) we can take songs and twist them with the agenda to be still and hear God. The secular material, I have to give that back to Kevin; I’m passing him the ball again. I asked Kevin what kind of songs would you take and twist around to make them minister, and he chose “Make Me a Believer” and “Ta Ta You Jesus” (chapter 2). When people shut themselves off and say “Well here is gospel, and here are worldly songs,” weigh it out. Like “You Are So Beautiful (to Me),” uh excuse me? I’m talking God, even if you are talking to your loved one. It’s love, and love is a godly message. “(I’m everything I am) Because You Loved Me”—who else can love you more than God? It’s vertical when you talk to God, but horizontal when you deal with person to person. It’s like the cross; the message of love is about vertical and horizontal aspects. TPC: Give us a final thought about ministry. KW: I was told long ago, “Don’t worry about being a conventional preacher, who ministers in a pulpit. What you do will impact people in a totally different way. To those who won’t go to church, if they like to read or listen to music, it will capture them; so you are still ministering, just in the way that God chooses for you in your gifts.” I’m blessed to continue to do this [for] so long, but I’m doing what I love. God has given me grace and placed people to push me along to tighten up the rough edges. I am grateful to have learned what I’ve learned, met and played with awesome people who God placed me with—My family is blessed and I couldn’t ask for more. So what is up next for Kirk Whalum? The self-proclaimed non-multi-tasker is currently working on a Donnie Hathaway tribute CD, a degree in Theology and a memoir. Also, by the time you read this Mr. Whalum will be the CEO of the Staxx Music Academy. If you love jazz, you have to get this CD; but if you want to feel like you were at the live recording, get the DVD. To those who are not jazz fans, let this be the first seed. I promise, it will minister to you in an unconventional way because it’s all the good news—The Gospel According To Jazz III. May 2010 The Positive Community
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Health
P R E V E N T I O N , T R E AT M E N T & C U R E
National Black Leadership Commision on AIDS
By Glenda Codagan
frican Americans represent 13 percent of the national population but 50 percent of all new cases of HIV/AIDS infection. In addition, black women, according to 2007 data released by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), represent over 60 percent of all new cases among heterosexual women. That’s the bad news. The good news is that the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA), whose work at the ground level has generated many significant changes in the past two decades, continues to move an aggressive agenda to help reduce the numbers in the black community. With committed and influential leaders such as President/CEO C. Virginia Fields and Chairman, Rev. Calvin. O Butts, NBLCA is specifically designed to educate, inform and empower local leaders to respond to the HIV/AIDS crisis. A policy, education, training and awareness, organization, NBLCA is the oldest and largest non-profit organization of its kind in the United States. Established in 1987 and headquartered in New York City, the NBLCA has 11 chapters (affiliates) in Tampa, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Detroit, and six other cites in New York State. All chapters are chaired by African American clergy members who have influence and strong voices in their respective communities. In 2008, Fields took over the helm of the organization from its founder and past president for 22 years, Debra Frazier-Howe. With her brand of passionate leadership, Fields has placed the organization’s advocacy efforts on the fast track and is vigorously moving its national and local agendas. A former Manhattan Borough President and New York City Councilmember, Fields brought the full brunt of her experience and knowledge in government to the position. “When I step into something, I bring everything I got,” she tells The Positive Community. “I now have a first hand view of the policies that need to be addressed and I am committed to putting the spotlight on what is happening in the black community.”
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During her tenure as Borough President, Fields commissioned the first comprehensive study on health disparities in the city. As an elected official, she allocated funds to support the work of many community-based organizations focused on health issues. However, she acknowledged having a skewed view of the impact of HIV/AIDS in the black community until she was “targeted” to lead the organization. “Debra Frazier-Howe approached me to head up this organization because she felt that my experience in government, my commitment to healthcare issues and my professional background as a social worker were a good fit in terms of the direction the organization was moving,” Fields explains. “But I had no real idea of the impact of HIV/AIDS within the black community and the lack of policies that needed to be addressed in an effort to focus on this epidemic. So inicontinued on next page
C. Virginia Fields
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tially, I refused the offer. However, once I agreed to meet with her and heard the staggering numbers, I was trapped.” Fields folded on her previous exit strategy of moving into a lobbying position and hit the ground running with an aim of “moving the ball further down the lane. I recognize that I am an issues person,’ she says. “This was an opportunity for me to mobilize people around an issue that can change lives. To me it is a continuum of my life’s work” At present, the NBLCA is pushing a three-pronged agenda at both the national and local levels. “Even after 30 or so years, the central message of HIV/AIDS is still the same,” she says. “Education, education, education. People need to know the facts—HIV/AIDS is preventable, but there is still no cure; safe sex is critically important and HIV/AIDS is disproportionately affecting the African American community. Secondly, know your status by getting tested and finally people need to get involved by carrying the message to their block and tenants’ associations and other civic and social groups.” Despite the organization’s committed efforts in promoting this agenda and its impressive accomplishments of service, it is still faced with eradicating this sense of complacency that has become pervasive in the black community. “One of the biggest barriers right now is how do we change this attitude that HIV/AIDS is no longer a problem, “ she says, adding, “People need to be aware that this is still a big problem. If you are not convinced, just look at the most recent report from the CDC which shows that annually, since 2006, the new cases of HIV infection have risen to 56,000.” Moreover, stigma, discrimination and shame, are
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wrapped together as a fire-breathing three-headed monster that threatens to burn out the best efforts of HIV/AIDS workers and advocates. “Another sobering figure contained in the CDC report is that there are 25 percent of people who are infected but do not know it,” she says. “This means that they have never been tested because they do not want to know. We need to remove these barriers and break down these walls of discrimination and shame if we are to turn this thing around,” says Fields. The other good news coming from the NBLCA camp is that increasingly, the black clergy has been stepping up to the call not just by creating HIV/AIDS ministries, but in areas of advocacy as well. “There are four major annual HIV/AIDS observances in the country –National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day; National Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS; National Testing Day and World AIDS Day,” says Fields. “In addition to holding programs and events around these times, many ministers are getting involved in testing and education. They seem to have gotten the message that the African American community is unduly affected and has responded to the call to action.” This activism was further energized in January with the appointment of Rev. Butts to the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. A self-confessed “possibletarian,” Fields says that she is fueled by a sense of hopefulness that committed effort can make a difference. “I am a praying person and I do believe that we are given blessings to pass them on,” she says “And in my life, I’ve truly been blessed.”
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(L-R) Garry A. Johnson, 1st VP; Wilma BrownPhillips,Health Committee co-chair; Sharon B. Mannheimer, MD; Geoffrey E. Eaton, president Mid-Manhattan Branch NAACP; Babette Hudson, Health Committee chair; Kenneth Butler, Health Committee member and Sandra May Flowers, Health Committee member
NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING AND HIV/AIDS PROGRAM AT HARLEM HOSPITAL CENTER
he NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch convened its monthly general membership meeting at the Harlem Hospital Center’s (HHC) Herbert G. Cave Auditorium. Mid-Manhattan welcomed a tremendous turnout of members, potential members, health advocates and community leaders at their annual celebration of National Women’s History Month, with a special tribute called: “Love in a Time of HIV, Honoring “Sheroes” in the Struggle with HIV/AIDS.” The tribute highlighted the strengths of ordinary women winning the fight and surviving with HIV/AIDS. Branch President Geoffrey E. Eaton, along with Babette Hudson, chair and Wilma Brown-Phillips, chair and co-chair of the Health Committee, presented a captivating program of celebration and awareness. Following a spirited welcome by HHC’s Executive Director, Dr. John M. Palmer, the audience participated in a powerful Black History Video tribute rendition of “Balm In Gilead, Inc.’s Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which displayed historic Civil Rights luminaries and events both past and present. In her presenation, guest speaker, Dr. Sharon Mannheimer, chief of Infectious Disease noted the
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alarmingly high rate of HIV/AIDS cases in recent CDC data and recent studies by Harlem Hospital Center’s HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness unit. The data depicted the grim reality of the increase of the disease among minority women, black men, teenagers and seniors throughout the nation and particularly in Harlem. Three brave women, Brenda Lee Curry and mother and daughter, Susan and Cristina Rodriguez, (founders of SMART University and Smart Youth, respectively) were honored with “Sheroe Awards.” In spite of their own challenges with this disease, the three continuously make great contributions, creating awareness of HIV/AIDS—finding ingenious ways to cope, help, educate and inspire others to move forward and live meaningful lives. Documentaries on the lives of these courageous women were shown. The Rodriguez’ were featured in the BBC documentary, Love in the Time of HIV, which aired on the Showtime Cable Network. The NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch program was sponsored in part by the Vivian L. Potter HIV/AIDS Ministry of Canaan Baptist Church, which is partially funded through a grant from the Black Leadership Commission on AIDS. www.thepositivecommunity.com
New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation
115 West 116th Street Second Floor Near Lenox Avenue In the Village of Harlem 212-961-5740
Generations+/Northern Manhattan Health Network
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HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER OFFERS AN IMPORTANT PIECE OF ADVICE LISTEN TO YOUR HEART
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iredness became a way of life for Patricia Lawrence. Everything was a struggle. She was out of breath, retained fluid, couldn’t sleep at night or even lay flat. Her health negatively impacted her life. Patricia gave up her job at the Division of Youth and Family Services. She couldn’t take care of her family to her liking. She said it was particularly hardest for her daughter who juggled helping her mom and going to college full time. It was also difficult for her 12-year-old son. “I couldn’t sit in the stands and cheer for him at basketball games, like other parents,” said Patricia. “I would try to go but it would take a lot out of me.” Her primary care physician recommended Robert Berkowitz, M.D., chief of Heart Failure at Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC). “Patricia came in comatose. A catheterization revealed she had pulmonary artery hypertension - a very dangerous disease,” said Dr. Berkowitz. Patricia was in intensive care for 45 days. “A couple of times, I didn’t think I was ever going to come out,” she recalled. “Dr. Berkowitz was a godsend. He knew the illness.” Flolan, administered intravenously 24/7, is Patricia’s miracle medication. Everyday she prepares her next day’s dose and she maintains two working pumps at all times. While using one, she carries the backup in a shoulder bag as a life-saving precaution. “In the past, people with pulmonary artery hypertension disease just died. Patricia left here very much alive,” said Dr. Berkowitz. “I’m feeling wonderful. Now, I can be at every game for my son and cheering like I should be,” said Patricia. The Heart Failure Program, a division of the Heart and Vascular Hospital at HUMC, is recognized as a leader in
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heart failure initiatives, due to excellence in heart failure care, as cited in projects such as the Pursuing Perfection Initiatives, and Premier Pay-for-Performance, and by HealthGrades. The program utilizes a multidisciplinary approach which has developed innovative ways to improve outcomes for heart failure patients. HUMC developed the Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension Program in response to an epidemic of heart failure in the United States. It is also a Pulmonary Hypertension Program focusing on all causes of pulmonary hypertension and is expert in diagnosis and treatment of this disease which can lead to failure of the right side of the heart. The Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension Program at HUMC can be reached at 201-996-4849. HUMC is one of the nation’s leaders in providing high quality, safe cardiovascular care. Its commitment to providing the best care continues with construction of a new, stateof-the-art Heart and Vascular Hospital, a “hospital within a hospital.” This brand new facility will house state-of-the-art equipment and programs which will really set it apart from many heart centers and heart programs. The Heart and Vascular Hospital will integrate preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services, with a special focus on cardiovascular disease management and breakthrough research. Inpatients and outpatients will be treated for all types of cardiac and vascular diseases, including heart problems, such as blocked arteries and irregular heartbeats; peripheral vascular disease; and neurovascular diseases, such as stroke and aneurysm. Housing all these services within one specialized location will allow for more efficient, effective patient care. To learn more about Hackensack University Medical Center, please visit www.humc.com. www.thepositivecommunity.com
SPECIAL HEALTH SECTION
HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER THANKS NEW JERSEY’S PHYSICIANS FOR RANKING OUR MEDICAL CENTER
THE NUMBER ONE OVERALL TOP HOSPITAL IN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY Inside Jersey and Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., one of the nation’s most respected healthcare research and information companies, have joined together to present New Jersey’s Top Hospitals. Castle Connolly reached out to physicians throughout the state and asked them to name the best hospitals for various medical conditions, as well as overall care. Congratulations on these well-deserved recognitions to the entire Hackensack University Medical Center Team!
HUMC ALSO WAS RANKED:
1 1 # 1 # 1 # 2 # 2 # 2 # 3 # #
Breast Cancer Prostate Cancer Pediatric Cancer Hip/Knee Replacement Coronary Bypass Congestive Heart Failure Neurological Disorders High-Risk Pregnancy
For a renowned physician affiliated with Hackensack University Medical Center, call
Hackensack University Medical Center Proudly serving the community since 1888.
www.humc.com
Kings County Hospital Center Message from Antonio D. Martin
Senior Vice President/Executive Director In February 2009, I had the privilege of being appointed as the Senior Vice President of the Central Brooklyn Family Health Network and Executive Director of our “anchor” facility, Kings County Hospital Center. I am proud to have the opportunity to help advance the history of this great institution which has served Brooklyn and New York City since its founding in 1831. We have been pioneers on many fronts and our $450 million reconstruction over the past decade has given us the resources for state-of-the-art medical care in the heart of Brooklyn, including a Diabetes Resource Center, Wellness Center, and Sleep Disorders Center. In 2009, our outstanding team of doctors and midwives delivered nearly 2,700 infants in our modern mother-baby unit. We handled 26,442 hospital admissions and 715,413 ambulatory care visits, including adult, pediatrics and mental health. However, federal health care reform will be a major force in driving down hospital and ER visits. The focus will shift decisively toward disease prevention and wellness. As part of NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), we are committed to the core mission of providing quality health care for all those in need, regardless of their ability to pay or their immigration status. Despite great financial challenges facing us, and facing health care providers everywhere, we remain steadfast in this commitment. Furthermore, my leadership team has been charged with enhancing our customer service, so that respect and dignity are accorded to every single patient and every visitor who enters our doors. We have dedicated ourselves to ensuring that the excellent clinical care which we provide is accompanied by supportive services which help to empower patients to be more active in managing their own care. In the coming months, you will see us more visibly in the community and we will be looking to the faith-based community to play an important role in promoting health education. As the black church has done historically to rally the community on major civil rights and humanitarian issues, we seek your partnership to fight for a healthy community, especially for our children’s benefit. We urge you and your church family to join us on Saturday, June 19th, for our Annual Health Fair. Let’s join forces to strengthen the medical, mental health and spiritual well-being of our community!
“Always Here When You Need Us”
“Kings County Hospital Yo u r H e a l t h C o n n e c t i o n ! ”
F AM I LY - CE NT ERE D S E RV I CE S • Blood Pressure Screening • Diabetes Info./Blood Glucose Test • Stroke Risk-Assessment • Pediatrics, Asthma Screening Saturday, June 19, 2010 * 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. CLARKSON AVENUE (bet. New York Ave. - East 39th St.) Brooklyn, NY 11203
• Pediatric Obesit y Information
INFORMATION: (718) 245-3910
• Health Insurance Information
• Behavioral Health Services • HIV Rapid Test & Treatment Info.
Kings County Hospital Center
“Always Here When You Need Us” • Primary Care Outpatient Clinics
Comprehensive Care for the Entire Family Unique Specialty Clinics Nationally Recognized Centers of Excellence
• Diabetes Clinic & Resource Center • Parkinson’s Center of Excellence X X X •
Sleep Disorders Clinic: Adult, Peds.
• Stroke Center • Beha vioral Health, In-/Outpatient
I NT ER-DENOM I N AT I ON AL P AST OR AL SERVI CES DEP AR T M ENT (71 8) 24 5-370 7
• HIV/AIDS Ca re & Prevention Svcs. • Level 1 Trauma Center, Adults • Level 1 Trauma Center, Pediatrics
welcome you to our modern facility, with “ We a rich history of service since 1831. Our highest organizational priority is respect for our patients, our visitors and one another. Antonio D. Martin Senior Vice President/Executive Director
Kings County Hospital 451 Clarkson Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11203 (718)
245-3131
www.nyc.gov/kchc
”
Central Brooklyn Family Health Network Sites Dr. Susan Smith McKinney Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (DSSM) (718) 245-7000 DSSM—Neponsit Adult Day Health Care (718) 634-1400 East New York Diagnostic and Treatment Center (Primary Care) (718) 240-0400
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SPECIAL HEALTH SECTION
Living with AIDS Maria Davis
“I’m not weak, nor am I a victim”
BY R.L. WITTER
ifteen years ago, HIV/AIDS was thought of as a gay men’s disease. It hadn’t hit the AfricanAmerican community yet and black women weren’t concerned about contracting the virus through heterosexual sex. Fifteen years later, HIV/AIDS is spreading most rapidly among heterosexual black women, and yet many still do not seem concerned. Maria Davis is concerned. She is concerned for herself, for you, your children and the rest of the community. “We have to stop this nonsense, the silence is killing us,” she says as she confirms with another party their plans to pass out condoms and information on 125th Street the day following our interview. Davis is a woman with a purpose—on a mission and always on the move. She is currently preparing her team, the “MAD Soul Runners,” for AIDS Walk New York on May16. “I’ve already got about 110 people walking with me,” she said; you can hear the pride and resolve in her voice. You can hear the same pride as she tells you that she will also be participating in the NYC Marathon in November. She completed the endurance run for the first time in 2009 with a time of 7:46:20, which is not nec-
F
<<God has kept me here for a reason and it is not for me to say what I am and am not going to do,” she vowed. “If He gave me breath and life to continue to be here, then it is my job tod do this—to go and speak.>>
essarily impressive at first glance. The fact that Davis has been living with HIV since 1995 and still completed the marathon is a formidable testament to her strength. “I’ve got strength; I trust in the Lord, that’s who I lean on— that’s my strength right there. He said my weakness is His strength and that’s what I live by. I’m not weak, nor am I a victim…” Davis can tell you the date she was diagnosed. She went for a routine physical for a life insurance policy on October 16, 1995, which included a blood test. “It never crossed my mind,” she recalled of the idea of being infected with the HIV virus. On November 1, 1995, a little green return-receipt card changed her life as it signaled the arrival of the letter that would inform her of her HIV status. “It was a letter from Prudential saying, ‘Dear Ms. Davis, we are sorry to inform you that you have the HIV antibodies in your bloodstream. Please seek further help.’” It took some time for it to sink in; Davis decided the letter was sent in error and wrote upon it, “THIS IS A LIE.” Sadly, it was not. Prior to that moment, Davis had been preparing for her 35th birthday celebration. As a former model and successful, well-known music promoter, it would be a starstudded affair with people like Mary J. Blige, Queen Latifah and Jay-Z in attendance (Davis was featured on Jay-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt on the track, “22 Twos”). No one would know or even suspect that Davis was HIV positive. But soon enough, they would all know, and so would the world because Davis would not go gentle into that good night. No, she would rage, rage against the dying of the light. “God didn’t make us to live in fear, He made us to be warriors and that’s how you learn to be a warrior, through your circumstances in life—whatever they may be,” she explained. “It’s not for you to stand back and say ‘I have no control over my life.’ Yes you do! continued on next page
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MARIA DAVIS continued from previous page
As long as God gives you breath and life and He gives you another day to live, you can always change your circumstances. “Everybody, including myself, thought that God was preparing me to be on the stage or entertainment business—but that’s not the stage He was preparing me for,” opined Davis. “He was preparing me for the stage of HIV because he needed my boldness... He needed somebody like that in the world of HIV/AIDS.” Davis’ boldness and passion helped her battle and beat an opportunistic infection and 103 degree fevers for weeks in a hospital bed. It was then that she came to realize her mission, “God has kept me here for a reason and it is not for me to say what I am and am not going to do,” she vowed. “If He gave me breath and life to continue to be here, then it is my job to do this—to go out and speak.” And speak she does on panels, in schools, on college campuses, at fundraisers and through her organization, “Can’t Be Silenced,” as well as First Corinthian Baptist Church. She appeared in a Bristol-Meyers Squibb advertising campaign to educate the public about people living with AIDS and has been featured on BET’s The Naked Truth 2 and Down Low Exposed, both dealing with
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She appeared in a Bristol-Meyers Squibb advertising campaign to educate the public about people living with AIDS and has been featured on BET’s The Naked Truth
2 and Down Low Exposed, both dealing with HIV/AIDS education. HIV/AIDS education. Davis also speaks to random young people she encounters in her day to day dealings. “If I had teachers doing what I do—going into schools at the time of the epidemic when it really hit—if our community had taken it seriously and we had gone out and done everything we could, I wouldn’t have HIV today,” she tells them. “One day I’m going to die—I mean we’re all going to die eventually—but I am going to die because of something related to a virus inside me. I might look good today, but I still get sick. You might look good today, but if you get a cold, a bug or flu, you don’t look so good. But with me it’s different. Your cough, your flu might be pneumonia for me. My immune system is fragile,” she said. The next thing I head was, “You don’t do things like that! That is somebody’s grandmother…” The phone became muffled and words became unintelligible. After a moment or two her warm voice came through the phone again, “Are you still there?” Funny, that was the question I was about to ask her. Always the warrior and one to look out for others, Davis saw a group of young women at a gas station beating an older woman. Without hesitation or thought for herself, Davis was out of her car and into the thick of things as she, joined by two other good Samaritans, pulled the aggressors away from the older woman and then chastised them for their thuggish behavior. “You don’t get blessed like that,” she said and advised them to calm down, then waited while the victim got on her way. “It takes a village,” she said as she got back into her car. We are all blessed to have Maria Davis as part of our village. May 2010 The Positive Community
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Get Healthy, Harlem! at St. Luke Medical Group
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ike any community, Harlem has its own unique set of health concerns. Here, the doctors of the new St. Luke’s Medical Group primary care practice, located at 147th Street and Frederick Douglass Boulevard, provide important information on how you can improve your health and the health of those you love. At St. Luke’s you’ll find experts to help you to deal with common medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, diet and exercise and for your overall health. They even have an expert in aromatherapy. A major problem in the urban communities is asthma. Dr. Jessie Fields answers the most asked questions about this potentially life-threatening disease.
Q: How common is asthma in Harlem? A: Asthma is very common in Harlem. Approximately 25 percent of children and 14 percent of adults in Central Harlem live with asthma. Q: What is asthma? A: Asthma is a chronic condition of the lungs that happens when your airways are prone to narrowing. This narrowing makes it hard for the breath to move through the lungs normally. Asthma causes “attacks” that make it difficult to breathe and result in shortness of breath, high-pitched wheezing, chest tightness and cough. While you and your doctor can figure out what triggers your asthma, scientists don’t yet know exactly what causes asthma in the first place in some people. Q: What triggers an asthma attack? A: Dust mites (tiny insects that live in dust), pet dander (tiny flakes of skin from pets that get caught in their fur), molds, cockroaches, cigarette smoke, perfume, strong-smelling cleaning products and air pollution, whether at home, work or school, are all common triggers. Some people find that their asthma kicks in when they have an upper respiratory tract infection, cold or flu. Others find that exercise or extreme emotion can trigger an attack.
Q: What medicines treat asthma? A: Some people with asthma take oral medications, but medications you spray directly into your mouth and inhale deeply are the main treatments for asthma. Correct use of the inhaler delivers the medication straight to the lungs, where it can work to open up airways and control symptoms. In general, there are two types of inhalers—rescue inhalers and maintenance inhalers. Rescue inhalers are used during an attack and provide quick relief by relaxing tightened muscles around your airways. Maintenance inhalers are used on a daily basis even when you are symptom-free. Maintenance inhalers prevent and reduce swelling in your lungs and airways that can lead to attacks. Q: What else can I do to control my asthma? A: If you have asthma, you must become an active partner with your doctor in managing your condition. Your doctor will help you figure out what triggers your asthma and how to best avoid those triggers. Your doctor will also write out an asthma treatment plan, which will include what medications to take, if you should measure your breathing at home (using a simple, handheld device called a peak flow monitor), what your peak flow monitor readings should be, and when to visit the doctor for regular checkups. At each visit, you and your doctor should review your asthma treatment plan for possible updates. You should also show your doctor how you use the inhaler to be sure that you are using it correctly.
Jessie Fields, MD, is a doctor at St. Luke’s Medical Group, located at 147th Street and 2771 Frederick Douglass Boulevard. To learn more about the group’s services, visit StLukesMedicalGroup.org or call (212) 690-0303 to make an appointment.
St. Luke s
at 147th St. St. Luke s Medical Group
YOU’VE BEEN COMING TO ST. LUKE’S FOR YEARS. NOW WE’RE COMING TO YOU. OUR DOCTORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL GROUP IS OPENING A NEW PRIMARY CARE PRACTICE AT 147TH STREET. So getting the expert, day-to-day medical care you deserve is as simple as calling to make an appointment. Plus, our staff is just as diverse as the communities we serve. Visit us on the Web at StLukesMedicalGroup.org
2771 Frederick Douglass Blvd. at 147th St. Call us at (212) 690-0303.
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Good Grief “This is not a cold. You will not get over it. You will learn to adjust to the loss you have suffered.”
ECHOES gives the bereaved an opportunity to heal By g.r. mattox ven when it’s expected, the death of a loved one can be a traumatic experience. When the passing is unexpected; when one loses a child or a beloved parent; when a friend or family member is killed, the experience can be indescribably devastating. Grief—the keen mental suffering, sharp sorrow and painful regret that comes with loss, will come to each of us at one time or another. Depending on how we cope with our loss, the pain of death can be eased, while illustrating the meaning of life. Grief counseling, a specific form of therapy that helps an individual recognize normal aspects of the grieving or mourning process and cope with the pain, can be offered by clergypersons, counselors psychologists or social workers. It is generally directed toward positive adjustment following the loss of a loved one. There is no shame in needing help in dealing with the pain of loss. Bereavement counseling responds to emotional pain that is equally as devastating as physical pain and should be approached with the same sense of urgency. A place where the adjustment and healing can begin for people in our community just happens to be the only free-standing grief Beverley facility in the State of New Jersey. Henderson Hartsfield ECHOES-The Grief Center, located in Orange, is a place where the journey from bereavement begins for people of all ages. Beverley Henderson Hartsfield, ECHOES executive director, signed on to this project about 10 years ago at the request of its founder, funeral director Macon T. Cotton, Jr. Telling her he was “tired of seeing families fall apart after I bury their loved ones,” he wanted her help in establishing a grief aftercare program. Hartsfield, who is a registered nurse by profession and a coalition builder by avocation, served as the first female executive director of 100 Black Men of New Jersey. She has done groundMacon T. breaking work in the area of black Cotton, Jr. infant mortality and has held the post
of president and board chair of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies of Essex, Inc. for 20 years. To prepare herself for the project, she closeted herself in what is now the ECHOES facility and after concentrated research and training was granted certification by the American Academy of Grief Counseling. She visited the Grief Share Ministry at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Church in New York to observe how that successful ministry works. Bearing in mind the cultural and ethnic diversity in the community, she wrote a three-inch thick manual that covered everything she thought she would encounter in dealing with people who are dealing with grief. “There’s not much out there,” she said. “Everything I saw did not reflect my community and the people I serve.” From examples and research, Hartsfield and ECHOES have developed groups for surviving spouses, parents and children. Outreach to schools, churches and interested groups is a major part of her work. When catastrophes like Hurricane Katrina and the Haitian earthquake occur, her schedule is overflowing with clients. The violence that children encounter is an issue that is addressed with a special degree of compassion. Hartsfield has counseled children who have seen dead bodies on their way to school and personally witnessed murders. Individual counseling is done by appointment, and not always in the office. Clients are met at cemeteries, diners, malls—anywhere the individual feels comfortable enough to speak their feelings. As a nurse, she recognizes when more help than ECHOES can provide is needed and will suggest referrals in those areas. Thoroughly professional yet empathic to her client’s feelings, she nonetheless gives it to them straight: “This is not a cold. You will not get over it. You will learn to adjust to the loss you have suffered.” A non-profit organization open to the public, the service is offered by Cotton Funeral Service, Inc. and has flourished under Hartsfield’ s direction with support and encouragement from Mr. Cotton, who recently opened a continued on page 92
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Health Care Reform:
What’s in it
for You?
Help serve meals at a shelter
Help a child learn to read
Help someone reach for the sky
Resources to help you decode the new law
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s a part of our effort to help Americans understand the impact of the recently enacted health reform package, AARP has launched new on-line resources for people with questions about the new law. These are user-friendly tools designed to provide straightforward, reliable information so you can make the best decisions for yourself and for your family. The AARP Bulletin's new "Health Care Reform Explained" column -- available at www.aarp.org/getthefacts - - provides practical answers to questions submitted by visitors. Each week, AARP is answering the top questions about the new health care reform law e-mailed by readers to HCRquestions@aarp.org. AARP's Get the Facts website hosts a user-friendly quick guide to understanding the benefits of the new health care law, as well as fact sheets in plain language on various topics including prescription drugs and long-term care. The website offers information both for people in Medicare and for those with private health insurance and all the materials can be printed right from the website. You’ll see the new "Health Care Reform Explained" column which follows the model of the AARP Bulletin's "Ask Ms. Medicare" column, the go-to consumer information resource for millions of people who navigate the ins and outs of the Medicare program. Go to www.aarp.org/getthefacts today and check back often! AARP's web site will be continually updated with answers to the latest questions sent in by consumers to HCRquestions@aarp.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com
IT TAKES JUST A LITTLE TO GIVE BACK A LOT TO YOUR COMMUNITY. Create The Good® helps you find opportunities to make a difference, on your time and your terms. Whether you have five minutes or five hours to spare, a little time goes a long way. For ideas and information, go to CreateTheGood.org.
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Healthcare with “Heart & Soul”
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nglewood Hospital and Medical Center’s commitment to care is not confined to an examination room or a patient’s bedside. Through its Department of Community Outreach, led by Manager Phyllis Brown, Englewood Hospital strives to help people of all ages live healthy, active, and happy lives in their own communities. “Our goal is to contribute to better health and a higher quality of life for our neighbors,” says Ms. Brown. “We do this by participating in health fairs, offering free screenings, and hosting events that bring awareness to obesity, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and other health risks facing the African-American community.”
Growing a Tradition The annual Heart & Soul Music Fest demonstrates the Medical Center’s unique approach to blending education and culture to encourage community health. In 2009, more than 300 people attended the inaugural Heart & Soul Music Fest. The highlypraised event featured health information and screenings, followed by a concert that celebrated the African-American experience through gospel, rhythm and blues, jazz, and hip hop music. The festival was such a success that a children’s version of the program, the Heart & Soul Too! Youth Fest, was held earlier this year. Over 200 young people came out to participate in interactive health and fitness programs, learn the importance of developing healthy habits, and enjoy educational entertainment from special guests including Jordan Coleman, Bruce Harper, and the Hip Hop Culture Center in Harlem. “It’s very important to encourage our young people to embrace health, education, and culture,” says Ms. Brown. “They are the future of our community and now, more than ever, they face many of the same health and social concerns as our adult population. This is the time to educate them about healthy living and lifestyle choices.”
Join Us! The 2010 Heart & Soul Music Fest will celebrate Juneteeth, the national observance the abolition of slavery in the United States. “Juneteenth commemorates African American independence, achievement, and culture,” says Ms. Brown. “The very same ideals we celebrate and promote through Heart & Soul.” True to its roots, the event will meld health information with performance. The “Heart” portion of the June event will feature a “Virtual Heart Unit” – an educational, interactive exhibit showing the continuum of care following a heart attack – as well as blood pressure and other health screenings. The “Soul” segment will be a program and concert hosted by WLIB’s Liz Black, featuring Davell Crawford, Like-Minds, Rev. Leo & the Uplifters, Hip Hop Culture Center in Harlem, Curvey Simmons, and RNS. “The Heart & Soul events are near and dear to my heart,” says Ms. Brown, “They embody the kind of outreach we do best – engaging our neighbors to be proactive about health and wellness in a way that is relevant to their life and consistent with their values.” The 2nd Annual Heart & Soul Music fest will be held on Friday June 18th at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, 350 Engle Street, Englewood, NJ 07631. It is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 5:30 PM for mingling, hors d'oeuvres, and health information. The show begins promptly at 7:00 PM. For more information, visit EnglewoodHospital.com. Ms. Brown can be reached at (201) 894-3589 or phyllis.brown@ehmc.com.
My emergency: a heart attack. When daddy’s chest began to hurt, mommy called 911. An ambulance took daddy to Englewood Hospital’s new Emergency Care Center. The doctor took us all to a special room right away. Mommy says they took really good care of him. Now daddy’s better, and we play all the time. Englewood Hospital is my favorite hospital! Our #1 priority is giving patients the highest quality emergency care in a safe, compassionate environment. Now we’re providing that care in a new, state-of-the-art facility offering minimal wait times; 40 large, private rooms; skilled emergency care physicians; award-winning nurses; and a dedicated imaging center. Englewood Hospital has more top doctors* than any other hospital in northern New Jersey, and has been rated #1 in N.J. and #3 in the U.S. for heart attack survival.** For more information, visit englewoodhospital.com.
The new
mergency Care Center
*As reported by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a healthcare research company. ** Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 2008 data
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Healthfirst Health Tips
Keeping Hypertension
under Control
Once you have been diagnosed with hypertension —also known as High Blood Pressure (HBP)— you will need to modify your lifestyle and change your eating habits. It is likely that your provider will prescribe you medication to keep your hypertension under control, but there are quite a few other basic effective measures you can take to lower your high blood pressure.
Quick Tips: Avoid high-sodium processed foods. These include cured and smoked meats, and some pre-packaged, frozen and canned foods. Replace salt with herbs and spices. Experiment with herbs such as onions, garlic, basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, and onion and garlic powders. Eat potassium-rich foods. Sources of potassium include fruits such as cantaloupes, bananas, watermelon, and oranges, as well as potatoes, spinach, and zucchini.
Read food labels. Any ingredient with the word sodium in it, such as disodium phosphate, or monosodium glutamate (MSG) means that the food might have high sodium content. Exercise regularly. Maintaining a healthy body weight and exercising are both very important in controlling blood pressure. Limit consumption of alcohol. People with HBP should limit alcohol consumption to no more than one ounce per day. Remember high blood pressure has no symptoms, visit your provider on a regular basis to ensure your blood pressure is below 120/80. Cited Source: http://www.americanheart.org/ presenter.jhtml?identifier=593 Source: http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2010/ A-Population-Based-Policy-and-SystemsChange-Approach-to-Prevent-and-ControlHypertension/Report-Brief-Prevent-and-ControlHypertension.aspx
Quick Facts on High Blood Pressure Medicines: • High Blood Pressure medication will help control and lower blood pressure. • Taking your medicine regularly will bring positive results to your well-being. • Don’t ever stop taking medicine on your own without your provider’s consent. • Take your medicine at the same time each day to prevent missed dosage.
• It is recommended to take your medicine after you brush your teeth or along with meals. • Unfortunately, all medications have side effects and it affects everyone differently. Do not stop taking your medicine due to the side effects, instead contact your provider immediately.
To learn more about Healthfirst , call: 1-866-GO-FOR-HF (1-866-463-6743) TTY 1-800-662-1220 (for the hearing or speech impaired). Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 6:00pm. ©2010 HF Management Services, LLC.
www.healthfirstny.org
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At Healthfirst, all the pieces fit. With more than 20,000 doctors and specialists, and all of New York’s top hospitals to choose from, Healthfirst provides you with the quality healthcare you deserve.
we put your health first
To learn more about Healthfirst, call:
1-866-GO-FOR-HF (1-866-463-6743) TTY 1-800-662-1220 (for the hearing or speech impaired)
Monday through Friday, 8:00am – 6:00pm ©2010 HF Management Services, LLC.
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Monique S. Roy, M.D
An Eye for an Eye Study focuses on eye problems in African Americans Story and photos by g.r. mattox iabetes can result in many devastating effects on the body – from amputations to loss of sight and kidney failure. African Americans with diabetes are two to three times more likely to suffer from these life altering outcomes than are diabetic Caucasians. The leading cause of blindness among 20- to 64-yearolds with diabetes is a degenerative condition called diabetic retinopathy in which the blood vessels of the retina of the eye are damaged. Almost everyone with type 1 diabetes, and 70 percent of type 2 diabetics will experience some degree of retinopathy. A report published in the January issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals, states that high intakes of calories and sodium appear to be associated with the progression of retinal disease among African Americans with diabetes. The study, conducted at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), assessed 469 patients between 1993 and 1998 and again in a follow-up between 1999 and 2004. Participants completed a food frequency questionnaire, had a complete eye examination, underwent blood testing and had photographs of the retina taken to determine the progression of the condition. Monique S. Roy, M.D., of the New Jersey Medical School, UMDNJ was one of the doctors conducting the
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study. “One particular factor we have identified when we collected information was with diet. In what people were eating on average over time, there was a connection between calorie intake and changes in the eye,” she explained. “Nobody had ever looked at early-onset diabetes and its complications in African Americans,” Dr. Roy noted. “Being in Newark we felt it was our duty to the community…it was an important thing to do. Furthermore, we had some information from the Blindness Registry done back in the 1960s that showed that African American women with diabetes were three times more likely to become blind from the disease.” Genes a factor The UMDNJ study, supported by grants from the National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD, and a Lew Wasserman Merit Award for Research to Prevent Blindness, Inc., also sought to determine if there are genes that may contribute to the development of diabetes or the severity of diabetic retinopathy. A long duration of diabetes, poor blood sugar control, and high blood pressure are associated with severe diabetic retinopathy in African Americans with type 1 diabetes. However, those pathologies alone do not explain why some African American diabetic patients get severe eye problems, suggesting that there are genetic factors responsible for the severity of the disease. “We think they (genetic factors) are important and are currently studying just how important they are,” Dr. Roy said. “We’ve found some strong associations between some genes and complications, but we don’t know quite yet how important they are, and we are in the process of doing that.” What people need to know is that damage to the eyes due to diabetic retinopathy can be reversed. “It’s not like you have problems and it’s going to get worse and we will never be able to do anything about it,” the doctor continued. “The eyes can get better by controlling the sugar, blood pressure and obviously by controlling what you eat. If there are problems such as bleeding into the eye or leakage we have treatment to restore useful vision.” The role of diet Because diet is such a factor, the UMDNJ Clinical Nutrition & Patient Services Department works with diabetic patients in maintaining their sight and overall health. Assistant Director Janet Reid-Hector, Ed.D, RD, CNSD, says that in addition to having annual eye exams, people with this long term complication must maintain tight control of blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels. If one’s blood sugar level is over seven percent, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels should be monitored closely. “Every 10 percent decrease in elevated HbA1C is associated with a 39 percent decline in the risk of diabetic retinopathy,” she said. Dr. Reid-Hector also urges patients to indulge in doctor-approved physical activity for 30 minutes to an hour a day, and to stop smoking. www.thepositivecommunity.com
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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
The Secret Self Who Lives Within Us All Dear Dr. Palmer The number of people in high places who fall from grace is growing. Isn’t it terrible that these people say one thing and end up doing another? —Signed, What Were They Thinking? Dear What Were They Thinking: Over the years, we have seen a kind of theater and the spectacle of people who are famous come into prominence and then fall. They have fallen because of personal secrets that they had, or personal behaviors that were unknown, and only came to our attention because of a tipping point event. We can name those most famous who are interesting to us now: Tiger Woods, Eliot Spitzer, and former Governor Rod Blegojevitch of Illinois. Consider the irony that Bernard Kerick, who provided leadership to all NY City jails, is now in jail himself. While Governor Mark Sanford of South Carolina remains in office, his secret life damaged his credibility, destroyed his marriage, and embarrassed his children. Many former elected officials of the City of New York are in jail right now, convicted of breaking the law because of misbehaviors that were surprising to everybody. We have to understand that public figures who fall from grace are no different from you and me. And if we think they are, then we are not www.thepositivecommunity.com
taking a close enough look at our own lives to understand that part of the human condition. I’ll put it this way: we all have a secret self. And what we need to learn from these so-very-public falls is that our secret selves may be heading us for a fall if we don’t watch it. What is this secret person having us do that is against our own avowed morals and deeply held beliefs? Who is this secret self that would have us endanger our public self by behaving in a way that contradicts everything that we say we stand for, we pledge to stand for, and we do stand for? Be it marriage vows, taking a vow to serve the public as an elected official, or in the case of priests, taking a vow to serve as the personal representative of God. So in response to your question about the rise and fall of our elected officials, here is my answer: Public figures fall because they are human. We all need to be careful that our secret selves aren’t setting us up for the same fate in our personal lives with our loved ones or in our business lives. How many businessmen and businesswomen have presented themselves as good people, only to be found to be frauds and thieves? And they didn’t get in those positions because people thought they were frauds and thieves. They got in those positions because there was evidence that they were indeed good businessmen and businesswomen. They fell short because they didn’t understand
or estimate how close the behavior of that other self was to exposing them to the kind of ridicule and disgrace that they have had to experience. The secret self usually operates at the periphery of our own consciousness. Sometimes we are totally unaware that we are behaving in a way that is going to lead to our downfall because we have many mechanisms to excuse it, to deny it, to distance ourselves from it. The behaviors that will bring our downfall are not unlike addictive behaviors. We minimize their impact on ourselves and our families, but over time, our credibility is destroyed, our relationships, and finally our reputations. We may even lose our freedom because of the way the secret self literally tears at the integrity and the beliefs that we have practiced in public. The lesson that we need to learn from the downfall of public officials is to examine, and understand the importance of, our own secret selves. We need to figure out how to deal with our own secret self before it brings us to a downfall. People who are famous are human just like us. 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.
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Newark Launches Rx Discount Card Photo: Vincent Bryant
Save up to 65% on your family’s prescriptions! City of Newark FREE DISCOUNT Rx CARD
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• Card is ready-to use • Individuals or families can use • 59,000 participating pharmacies • All chain pharmacies in network • Many independents in network • Save up to 65% on prescriptions • No paperwork to fill out • No limits on usage • No health restrictions • Can be used immediately • Everyone is accepted • No fee ever charged for the card • No expiration date • Save on brand & generic drugs • Covers drugs not covered in health plans • Covers many pet prescriptions Go to www.coast2coastrx.com/newarknj to find a pharmacy, for drug pricing, to print a card and for more information.
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Coast2Coast Rx Card City of Newark, NJ Name: _______________________________ Member ID: (give your 10-digit phone #) Note: add 01, 02 or 03 for primary, spouse & dependents after Member ID
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The Positive Community May 2010
L-R: Newark Councilman Oscar James, Child and Family Well-Being Director Maria Vizcarrondo; Marty Dettelbach, Financial Marketing Concepts; Mayor Cory Booker; Jeffery Lewis, president, Heinz Family Philanthropies, Newark Municipal Council President Mildred Crump and Council Member Carlos M. Gonzalez
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ayor Cory A. Booker along with Newark Municipal Council members, Heinz Family Philanthropies President Jeffrey Lewis and Financial Marketing Concepts Chief Marketing Officer Marty Dettelbach announced the launch of the City of Newark Prescription Discount Card recently. Newark became one of three cities in the country to offer a special prescription drug discount card to all residents, regardless of age and with no health or income restrictions. The City of Newark Rx Card became a reality on April 8 when Mayor Cory Booker, members of the Municipal Council and card sponsors, the Heinz Family Foundation and Financial Marketing Concepts, held an official launch. The new card will provide Newark residents with access to lower cost prescription medication—regardless of insurance—at a wide array of City drug stores, including all major chains and most independents. The card also offers substantial discounts on lab fees and tests, and provides assistance with some expenses not covered by Medicare. “We are expanding our partnership with caring organizations to find local solutions to the national health care crisis,” Mayor Booker said. In some cases, the free discount card may offer better pricing than certain health insurance plans, so residents should compare pricing even if they have insurance. In addition, some medications that not covered in health plans may be covered by the Newark Rx Card. This new initiative builds upon the NewarkHealthPlus and Newark Rx programs, which the City of Newark launched last year in partnership with Heinz Family Philanthropies and other organizations. In addition to CVS, Duane Reade, Rite Aid and Walgreens the card is available at Newark City Hall, libraries and independent pharmacies. www.thepositivecommunity.com
SPECIAL HEALTH SECTION
Newark Beth Israel Medical Center Photos: Donovan Gopie and Peter Richter
Host Partners in Progress Dinner
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ewark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey hosted the Sixth annual Partners in Progress awards dinner, a special event designed to reflect on the efforts of those individuals and institutions that have dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to the city of Newark and its future. The event was held on Wednesday, April 21 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. “Each year Partners in Progress recognizes the commitments that our honorees have made to Newark through investment in the artistic, educational, civic, business, and healthcare of the community,” says John A. Brennan, MD, Executive Director of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC). “We are proud to recognize their outstanding accomplishments.”
R–L: Honoree Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian, Christian Love Baptist Church, Irvington and Ronald J. Del Mauro, CEO, Saint Barnabas Health Care System.
Newark Public Schools Jazz Ensemble
L–R: Steve Audabato Jr., Ph.D and his dad, Steve Sr.
Lawrence P. Goldman, president/CEO, NJPAC
L-R: Vaughn McKoy, president PSEG Foundation; honoree Ralph A. LaRossa, president/COO, PSE&G and Peter G. Veringro, member Sills, Cummings & Gross PC
L–R: Irvington Mayor Wayne Smith, Rev. Milton Biggham of Mt. Vernon B.C. Newark, Hon. L. Grace Spencer, 29th Assembly District; L-R: John A. Brennan, MD, executive director, NBIMC; Micheline Davis, VP for Government Affairs St. Barnabas and Darrell Terry, Sr. VP Newark Beth Israel
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May 2010 The Positive Community
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StayingHealthy
WITH NEWARK BETH ISRAEL MEDICAL CENTER
Amazingly fun. Remarkably effective! KidsFit Newark This highly successful pediatric wellness, weight loss and healthy lifestyle program from Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center has expanded to the community of Newark and will begin a first-inthe-state obesity prevention pilot program for the 503 kindergarten through 8th grade students at Maple Avenue School in the South Ward. The program has a wellness and healthy lifestyle focus that is tailored to the nutrition education needs of children and families living in the urban environment. The pilot program, made possible through a grant from Merck Pharmaceuticals and the support of Scholastic Books, will focus on obesity prevention by providing a registered dietitian on site, after school wellness and exercise programs, and assistance with planning healthy school lunches. KidsFit Newark began in 2007 in the Pediatric Health Center at Children of Hospital of New Jersey. The 8-week hospitalbased program aimed at treating obesity and its complications includes visits with a physician, social worker, exercise physiologist and registered dietitian. Each two-hour session includes behavior modification, techniques to help build self esteem and exercise that can be followed at home. The registered dietitian conducts a complete nutritional evaluation, provides nutrition education, and helps children and families develop healthy and affordable eating plans. For More Information Please call 973.926.2663 to join KidsFit Newark and learn what can be done in your community.
201 Lyons Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112
www.saintbarnabas.com
1.888.SBHS.123
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Aetna and "Magic" Johnson are Honored by New York Academy of Medicine
Bruce Booth (NYAM Board of Trustees), Dr. Lonny Reisman (Aetna), Dr. Jo Ivey Boufford (President of NYAM), Magic Johnson, and Ed Lewis (NYAM Board of Trustees; Chairman and Founder of Essence Communications).
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n Thursday, April 22, 2010, The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) paid special tribute to NBA basketball great Earvin "Magic" Johnson and Aetna during its 16th Annual Gala at the Pierre Hotel. Mr. Johnson, a community activist and successful entrepreneur, was the recipient of NYAM's first-ever Urban Health Champion award in recognition of his national, award-winning HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention programs and for his commitment toward economic development in some of the nation's most underserved communities. NYAM honored Aetna for their longstanding leadership in two areas that are closely aligned with NYAM's mission to advance the health of people in cities: the company's pioneering work to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in health care access and treatment, and their innovative efforts to improve the health literacy of consumers and providers. Dr. Lonny Reisman, Aetna's Chief Medical Officer, accepted the award on behalf of Aetna. "Our two honorees tonight share NYAM's vision of healthier cities," said Jo Ivey Boufford, President of NYAM. "Both Magic Johnson and Aetna, through its charitable foundation, have addressed issues central to the work and mission of NYAM, particularly in their work to eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in health and healthcare through education, prevention, and disease management initiatives." Mr. Johnson, who spoke at length about his experiences working to address both health and economic www.thepositivecommunity.com
issues in underserved communities, focused on the need to encourage and enable people in urban communities to make healthy eating and lifestyle choices, and expressed his desire to partner with NYAM on this and other urban health issues. "Tonight, I think I found the partner and the right organization to team up with, to go do some great work with," Mr. Johnson said. "You have the resources, I have the trust and the loyalty of those who live in urban America, so it's great that we can come together and form a partnership so that we can help people of color living in those communities." Dr. Reisman spoke about Aetna's commitment toward addressing some of our nation's most pressing urban health issues. "Aetna is committed to addressing today's most challenging health issues, including healthcare disparities, childhood obesity, and health literacy," Dr. Reisman said. Nearly 300 guests attended the event, including leaders in the fields of health, science, business, finance and government. Special guests included New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Richard Daines, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Assembly Member Felix Ortiz, City Council Member Gale Brewer, Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Kate Levin, Deputy Commissioner of Health Andrew Goodman, and former Manhattan Borough President C. Virginia Fields. Other guests included Kenyan Ambassador Zachary Muburi-Muita and South Korean Ambassador In-kook Park. May 2010 The Positive Community
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“Lose the love handles–grab a pan handle.” – Earvin “Magic” Johnson
NB:10”
A little bit of exercise, along with healthy eating, goes a long way to helping you feel better. For delicious recipes and other health tips, go to
www.communityvitality.com .
© 2010 Aetna Inc. Community Vitality is a health literacy initiative for the public from Aetna and Magic Johnson Enterprises. 2010063
MAGICJOHNSON ENTERPRISES
Youth Fitness Challenge Championship in Newark Horizon NJ Health Partners with Joetta Clark Diggs Foundation & City
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he City of Newark partnered with the Joetta Clark Diggs Sports Foundation and Horizon NJ Health to host the inaugural Fitness Challenge Championship for City youth aged 10-13, on Saturday, April 10, at Nat Turner Park. Each of Newark’s Recreation Centers fielded a team of four boys and four girls. The teams trained every Wednesday beginning February 3 in a variety of activities to demonstrate their endurance, physical strength and agility. In addition to the mental and physical challenges for the teams, friends and families took advantage of health screenings, music, and face-painting for kids at the park. Prizes were awarded to the Recreation Center that drew the highest number of supporting fans. Teams finishing first through third received trophies, as did their individual members, while participants on teams finishing fourth through sixth received medals. The “Horizon Sun Award” was given to the participant who earned the most points for their team. “They have an excellent role model in Mrs. Clark Diggs and will be involved in activities and competitions that can motivate, involve, teach and, hopefully, inspire
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them to see that their lives can be improved with a healthier lifestyle. These kids will not only finish strong in body and spirit – they will be better for the experience,” said Karen L. Clark, president/COO for Horizon NJ Health. “We are proud to be a part of a program that challenges young people to become more active and involved.” The Fitness Challenge is an easily administered program in which boys and girls compete together in a series of physical fitness and mental strength events. This free, exciting new program provides boys and girls, 10 years of age to 13 years of age, the opportunity to compete in a program designed to challenge their fitness and academic skill sets in a fun and competitive environment. The Joetta Clark Diggs Sports Foundation and Horizon NJ Health are excited about this new program and the fitness/academic skill sets that the children will develop through their involvement in this initiative. “I know the importance of having a fit body and mind, and this program will focus on those areas. It’s always exciting to see Newark youth get involved and active at our events,” remarked Mrs. Clark Diggs. May 2010 The Positive Community
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Healthy Shopping for Healthy Meals Grocery Shopping With A Plan That Ensures Healthy Selections Is Your First Step Toward Good Nutrition.
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By Mia James
ou may already be aware of the benefits of good nutrition (such as improved strength, weight control, and better immune function), but making the first steps toward healthy eating habits doesn’t always seem so straightforward. According to Nhu Huynh, RD, clinical oncology dietician at Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) in Philadelphia, ensuring that your meals are wholesome and nutrient-packed isn’t so mystifying after all; it all starts with making smart choices at the grocery store. “It’s hard to cook healthy meals unless you have the right ingredients in your kitchen,” Huynh explains, which is why she stresses the importance of shopping with a plan that guides you toward healthful whole foods and away from less beneficial processed choices. Here, she leads us through a typical grocery store and tells us where to go and which types of products to add to our shopping carts: A basic guideline is to start by shopping the perimeter of the store and plan to make the majority of your selections in these areas. Head to the produce aisle first, to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables. Huynh suggests picking out a variety of produce in the “colors of the rainbow”— a selection of hues represents a range of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Another helpful hint she offers is to buy fruits and veggies that are in season, as these are likely to taste better and be less expensive. Then make your way to the fish and poultry section, where you’ll pick up high-protein foods. Here Huynh encourages lean meat and poultry selections and recommends wild-caught fish when available instead of farm-raised seafood. Types of fish known to have higher levels of mercury, including large, predatory fish like swordfish, tilefish, shark, and king mackerel, should also be avoided. Next, you’ll pass through the dairy aisle, where Huynh points toward low-fat choices, like one percent or skim milk and low- or non-fat yogurts and reduced-fat cheeses, which she says, can make good snacks. As you choose dairy products, carefully read labels to make sure
you’re avoiding products—yogurt in particular—with a lot of added sugar. Your next stops are the aisles containing breads, pastas, cereals, and other grains. This is another section where Huynh encourages careful study of labels. Your goal is to find products that are 100 percent whole-grain with little or no sugar added. Huynh also applies her five-ingredients-or-less rule to grain products to help you avoid processed items. And when you choose breads, pastas, and cereals, keep in mind that these foods can help you increase your fiber intake, so check labels for fiber content. For example, Huynh says cereals should contain 4 to 5 grams of fiber per serving. Now it’s time to venture further into the interior aisles of your store, which—though not where the bulk of your shopping should take place—can still offer many healthful choices. The frozen foods section, for example, can hold convenient, and sometimes less expensive, alternatives to fresh produce. “Fruits and vegetables in the frozen aisle can be perfectly fine,” Huynh says, though she again reminds to check labels for undesirable additives like sugar and salt. Now take a turn into the canned and dried foods aisle where you can find healthy pantry staples like tuna (packed in water, not oil), nut butters, olive and other oils, vinegar, and protein-packed, high-fiber beans. Once your kitchen is stocked with nutritional food choices, you’re ready to prepare a wholesome, delicious meal. For more information about the important role nutrition plays in cancer care and the integrated, patientcentered approach offered at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, visit cancercenter.com.
Surround yourself with an approach that works.
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America®(CTCA) the commitment we make is a commitment for life. You’ll see it in your care team - cancer experts who build a custom treatment plan around your needs.You’ll see it in your treatments cutting-edge oncology, support therapies and some options you may not even know exist. You’ll see that we never stop our quest to help you win your fight against cancer. Call 888-767-0216 to speak to a CTCA Oncology Information Specialist or go to cancercenter.com
© 2010 Rising Tide, Kft.
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Calvary Hospital’s African American Heritage
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ounded in 1899, Calvary Hospital is the nation’s only fully accredited acute care hospital devoted to providing palliative care to adult advanced cancer patients regardless of their race, religion, or economic status. In 2009, Calvary cared for more than 5,500 patients and families through inpatient and outpatient care, care of complex wounds, hospice, nursing home hospice, and home care. Calvary serves about 12% of all individuals who die of cancer in the New York metropolitan area each year. The average length of an inpatient stay is 26 days. Our patients came from across the New York tri-state area and from other places. They range in age from 21 and up, with a majority (82%) over the age the age of 55. Minorities (Asian, African American, and Hispanic) make up 46% of all inpatients.
What distinguishes Calvary from other healthcare facilities is its focus on principles on compassion, respect for the dignity of every patient, and non-abandonment of our patients and families. The Hospital’s primary goal is to address the physical, psychological, and spiritual needs of the patients and their families. Calvary partners with patients’ families to promote quality of life, address pain management and other symptoms, and help prepare both the patient and loved ones on what to expect in the final days of life. People are often unaware of the role African-Americans – especially women -- have played in our success. In the early 1960s, Calvary created a rigorous sixmonth training program for cancer care technicians (CCT), who learn how to help people with advanced cancer achieve the best possible quality of life. These talented, dedicated health care professionals are responsible for skin care, assistance with feeding, patient safety, and overall comfort of Calvary patients. Despite a marketplace of steadily escalating healthcare costs, Calvary’s CCT program has become a national model of appropriate, cost-effective, and competent palliative care, and helped the Hospital achieve a reputation as an international leader in palliative care. Many of Calvary’s first CCT graduates were AfricanAmerican. Today, African-American women continue to be the backbone of this program, comprising the majority of Calvary’s current team. Hundreds of people have graduated to date from this program. Many became CCT instructors for us, worked here for decades, and/or went on to become nurses. African-American nurses and doctors have also played an
important role in Calvary’s success over the years. Additionally, St. Martin De Porres, the son of a Spanish nobleman and an African woman, is the patron saint of Calvary. In addition to a 200-bed hospital in the Bronx, Calvary cares for inpatients at its Brooklyn satellite at Lutheran Medical Center. When it opened in 2001, our Brooklyn Satellite became the first “hospital within a hospital” in New York State. To date, Calvary has cared for more than 3,270 patients and their families there. Staffed entirely by Calvary employees, patients at our Brooklyn satellite receive the same hallmark care that patients receive at our main facility in the Bronx. The patient and staff population reflects the diversity of the greater New York area. The Hospital’s Pastoral Care Department is fundamental to its commitment to care for the whole person. Its staff consists of pastoral care providers of all faith traditions – priests and religious, rabbis, ministers, and lay people – who are trained to attend to the spiritual needs of our patients and families. It offers a special ministry to Spanish-speaking people. Pastoral care providers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Year-round bereavement support groups for adults, teens, and children are also available at no charge. Calvary@Home offers home care, hospice, and nursing home hospice for patients suffering from advanced cancer and other chronic and acute terminal illnesses. Home care is available in the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, and lower Westchester, and hospice services in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, as well as Nassau, Westchester, and Rockland counties. Calvary’s hospice services are also available in 25 nursing homes located throughout the greater New York area.
At Calvary’s Center for Curative and Palliative Wound Care, a team of experienced physicians, surgeons, and certified wound care nurses has helped more than 800 patients to date with complex chronic wounds caused by complications of diabetes, cancer, venous and arterial disease, and other illnesses. The Hospital’s excellence in patient care has been recognized by the health care industry. The Joint Commission, the world’s leading healthcare accrediting agency, granted Calvary Hospital and Calvary@ Home its Gold Seal of Approval™. Year after year, Calvary also ranks among the top one percent in patient satisfaction among 7,000 hospitals in the country. For more information about Calvary Hospital, please call (718) 518-2300; for more information about Calvary@Home, call (718) 518-2465; or visit www.calvaryhospital.org.
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.)
SPECIAL HEALTH SECTION
PARTNERSHIP THAT BUILDS VALUE
Common Foot Problems By Dr. Sharon Barlizo, Director, Wound Care Clinic Foot Center of New York
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Terence L. Byrd is the Vice President, Executive Director, of Healthfirst NJ. He joined Healthfirst NJ in August of 2009 and has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Terence has extensive experience in the New Jersey healthcare market with organizations that serve low-income populations.
TPC: How would you introduce Healthfirst NJ to The Positive Community readers? TB: I am proud to introduce Healthfirst NJ to The Positive Community and share my enthusiasm about opportunities for us to change healthcare in New Jersey. At Healthfirst NJ, our mission to improve the health and wellbeing of low-income communities drives us to partner with hospitals, doctors, and local organizations that share a common goal of improving the lives of these communities. TPC: How did Healthfirst NJ get its start? TB: In 2007, Healthfirst NJ opened its doors as a notfor-profit, hospital-sponsored managed care organization offering Medicare Plans in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic, and Union counties. Additionally, in August of 2009, we received the license to offer NJ FamilyCare/ Medicaid as an addition to our line of products and services. Since then, Healhtfirst NJ has grown considerably and has established itself as a community-based organization dedicated toward improving the quality of care in our service areas. TPC: Does Healthfirst NJ have plans for statewide growth? TB: Yes, an expansion that will offer our products and services throughout the state is targeted for completion in 2011. TPC: What do you believe sets Healthfirst NJ apart from other health insurance companies? TB: One of the things that sets Healthfirst NJ apart from other organizations is our effective collaboration with our hospitals, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), provider network, and community organizations. Our outreach efforts and partnerships are extesive. www.thepositivecommunity.com
number of foot conditions are called “common” because they can affect anyone at any age. However, people with certain conditions—such as diabetes and hypertension—are at higher risk of being more severely affected by some of these conditions, or exposed to complications. It is important to be aware of their symptoms, so that you can take the necessary steps to remedy them as soon as they appear. Fungus: Inside your shoes where it is warm, dark, and moist, fungi can easily grow on your feet. Dry skin, redness, blisters, itching, and peeling can result. Over-the-counter anti-fungal powders or creams can help. If the condition does not improve within 2-4 weeks, see your foot doctor. Corns and calluses: Caused by pressure when the bony parts of your feet rub against your shoes. Over-the-counter medications are not indicated for people with diabetes or circulation problems. See your doctor. Continued on next page These commitments have helped us tremendously to cultivate and offer healthcare programs and services in the communities that need it most. TPC: Can you share some examples of partnerships you’ve established? TB: Healthfirst NJ values the partnerships it’s established in the community. For us, it’s all about developing outreach programs that help to improve the health and well-being of our members and reinforce our commitment to the communities we serve. To support our mission, Healthfirst NJ formed a partnership with Reach Out and Read, a not-for-profit organization with a focus on promoting early childhood literacy. This program provides reading books at enrolled medical facilities to children under the age of five years old that live in low-income areas. Healthfirst NJ continues to sponsor the Newark Bears. Our sponsorship supports the Newark Bears’ endeavors in the community such as their Youth Clinics that encourage children ages 8-16 to exercise, develop leadership and team building skills. In addition, our relationship with the Newark Bears has allowed Healthfirst NJ to sponsor our first Little League team in East Orange, NJ. These partnerships help us to exercise our mission and positively impact our communities. May 2010 The Positive Community
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Continued from previous page
Warts: Skin growths, they are sometimes painful and may spread if not treated. Bunions. Develop when the joints in your big toe no longer fit together. They become swollen and tender. Bunions tend to run in families. If a bunion is not too painful, wearing special comfortable shoes may help. Physical therapy and shoe inserts can also bring relief. Medicines can help with pain, but sometimes surgery is needed to relieve the pressure and repair the toe joint. Ingrown toenails: Caused by the nail breaking into the skin. If you have trouble bending or cutting your nails, your foot doctor can cut your nails appropriately. Hammertoe: Caused by A shortening of the tendons that control toe movements. The toe knuckle grows and pulls the toe back. This can affect balance. Spurs: Calcium bumps that grow on bones of your feet, caused by stress on the feet. Standing for long periods of time, wearing badly fitting shoes, or being overweight can make spurs worse. Swollen Feet. May be a sign of more serious health problems. If swollen feet and ankles persist, see your doctor. Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Change shoes, socks or stockings often. .. And, most importantly, if you have diabetes or hypertension, see your foot doctor at least once a year, before foot problems appear.
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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.
90 Day Jumpstart Week 4 Continue focusing on portion control, increase intensity of cardio. (If you are walking add running intervals) THE NEXT 30 DAYS Week 1 Streamline your diet; give up unnecessary fats and empty calories (like soda)
90! ver the past several months we have spent a lot of time examining many of the underlying causes that may prevent us from going to the next level in our health and fitness. My hope is that you have looked at some of the challenges that were roadblocks to your success and are now ready to press your way through them. It says in James 2:17, “Faith without works is dead.” The following tips will help you step out on faith and jumpstart your fitness routine. Get on track just in time for the summer and stay on track for life!
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Week 2 Increase intensity of cardio and extend cardio session by five minutes Week 3 Slightly increase amount of weight for strength training routine by at least ½ to 1 pound Week 4 Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day The Final 30 days Week 1 Change your Cardio routine-Do a different cardio exercise for every 35 minute session.
THE FIRST 30 DAYS Week 1 Focus on Portion Control and Track Calories and increase water, fresh fruits and vegetables Week 2 Begin engaging in cardio (walking, running, kickboxing etc.) activity at least three times weekly for 30 minutes per session Week 3 Begin engaging in a total body strength training (light weights) routine twice weekly (along with cardio) for at least 15 minutes per session www.thepositivecommunity.com
Week 2 To stay focused, review your goals and refer back to them frequently. Week 3 Extend strength training session to 20 minutes! Week 4 Reevaluate where you are and make adjustments accordingly. Celebrate and give God the glory! 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. May 2010 The Positive Community
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SPECIAL HEALTH SECTION
“Patients should plan healthy meals with a variety of foods that has unrefined carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber and a moderate amount of monounsaturated fats and omega -3 fatty acids,” Dr. Reid-Hector counsels. “Generally, a healthy meal plan includes at least 2-3 servings of non-starchy vegetaDr. Roy with patient Kenneth Woodard bles; 2 servings of fruit; 6 servings of whole grains, beans, and starchy vegetables; 2 servings of fat free or low-fat dairy and 6 oz. of lean meat, fish, poultry, tofu or other meat substitute.” Kenneth Woodard, a Newark resident and former Continental Airlines employee, has been coming to Dr. Roy for 20 years. A Type 1 diabetic, the changes in his sight began in 2003. “My vision was getting blurry, it was gradual, and I really couldn’t tell what was wrong; I just knew I was squinting a lot to see, he explained. “I would wake up in the morning and my sight was blurry; it would clear up and get blurry again. Then one day I was playing basketball; I took a break and went to lay my head back and I saw lines running down through my eyes. I didn’t know it at that time but that was the bleeding in my eye. I came to Dr. Roy and she told me I needed laser surgery.” Although he will be undergoing some more laser sur-
gery soon, Woodard, who is also a dialysis patient, said that that right now his vision is good. “For me, Dr. Roy was a lifesaver and she really takes care of my eyes.” As far as diet is concerned, he will admit to slipping now and then: “I do love my lasagna.” Participants needed for continued study To further study the genetic factors as well as the other aspects of diabetic retinopathy, Dr. Roy is currently looking for 250 participants within the next year. To participate patients must be African American, with early onset (before aged 30) diabetes and continually on insulin since their diagnosis. “We are looking to analyze the data, bring the study to a conclusion and make some recommendations,” she said. Dr. Roy has some tips for diabetics with or without eye problems that all individuals should note. “Eat less, and eat without salt,” she advises. “We don’t really need salt, because salt is in all foods. Now, if you have less salt in the food, maybe the food won’t taste as appetizing and your hunger will lessen but you will tend to eat less, therefore lowering your calorie intake. Also, something as simple as drinking water before a meal will curb your appetite, and that will also cause you to eat less.” For further information about the study or for those wishing to participate, please call 973-972-2029 or e-mail roymo@undmj.edu.
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third funeral home, this one in Jersey City. “ECHOES has developed a cadre of resources and has the ability to put people in touch with persons and organizations that are able to provide needed services,” he said. “It is there not only to assist our clients with bereavement and grief issues, but is there to serve the entire community.” ECHOES was there for Geri Holman when she needed them on more than one occasion. Her niece, Dorothy Williams couldn’t find a support group to help her following the murder of her son, so she started a group for survivors of murdered children. Williams passed away and Hartsfield worked with Holman to keep the group going. In 2006, after receiving hospice care at home, Holman’s husband of 40 years succumbed to prostate cancer. Now she began receiving counseling. “After he died I was devastated,” she said. “It’s one thing to know about death; it’s another thing to watch somebody die, and it took a toll on me.” There is no specific way to grieve and grief has no expiration date. After four years, Holman is still in counseling and still becomes emotional talking about the death of her husband, “I don’t know if I’ll ever be whole again,” she said with a slight crack in her voice, “but each day I get a little better. Without Echoes I wouldn’t be as far as I am.”
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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD
Reflections on African Liberation ay 25 is celebrated as African Liberation Day in several African countries and among many conscious African-Americans. The day commemorates colonized Africans attaining independence from European colonial powers. Most of Africa, after being colonized by Europe from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, achieved independence during the late 50s and early 60s. Eighteen African countries became independent in 1960, and therefore celebrate 50th anniversaries of independence this year, 2010. These include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, Congo-Kinshasa, Cote D’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, and Togo. Several of these, at some point after independence, changed their former colonial appellations to national names of their own choosing. For example, Dahomey became Benin and Upper Volta became Burkina Faso. The means of achieving independence were mostly peaceful: agitation and negotiation. But a handful of African countries, mostly concentrated in Southern Africa, turned to “armed struggle” when peaceful efforts to break free from European colonialists failed. These included Southwest Africa (now Namibia), Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau. These countries fought their way to liberation during the 70s and 80s. While liberation involves struggle between separate peoples—one dominant and the other dominated—revolution involves struggle within a single nation, hopefully to bring about justice and equality among that nation’s people. The struggle of South Africa’s black majority to wrest control from the white minority that had held power for three centuries contained aspects of both liberation and revolution. It was revolution in that the struggle took place among South Africans, rather than against a foreign power. But it was liberation in that the white South African minority – the Dutchdescended Afrikaners and the persons of Britishdescent–effectively constituted separate peoples than the darker Africans and Asians whom they exploited. Therefore, the ultimate establishment of majority rule, finally led by the African National Congress and Nelson Mandela, was a revolutionary victory as well as one of liberation. Some African countries that achieved liberation from colonial powers in the mid- to late 20th century now need revolutions in the early 21st century to alleviate internal blackon-black oppression, corruption, and violence. Hopefully, these revolutions will be peaceful, yet thorough enough to bring about lasting internal change.
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“Liberation” and “revolution” are ideological, political terms. Now let’s talk theological. To be completely effective, ideological solutions must be pruned by God’s will. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit . . . the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.”–John 15:1-2, 4(New American Standard Bible) Political liberation from Europe did not end all African problems. Indeed, independence exposed internal issues for which Europe could not wholly, if at all, be honestly blamed. Witness the rampant corruption throughout much of present day Africa and the massive killing, rape, and displacement in the Eastern Congo and Darfur. These problems resemble–and may be historical extensions of—the intraAfrican warfare and exploitation that made the massive precolonial Trans-Atlantic Slave trade possible. “Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck in your brother’s eye.”–Matthew 7:3-5 (NASB) So the European colonialists were guilty. But Africans will see that picture better after we clean up our own mess. Moreover, beyond liberation from Europe, Africa needs spiritual liberation—as does the broader world−as in “…deliver us from the evil one.” (Matthew 6:13, New International Version). Rather than revolution primarily along socialist, capitalist, or even Nguzo Saba lines, Africa needs revolution along Christ lines, as in “if you love Me you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15, NASB). God’s commandments extend far beyond the familiar ten. They also include admonitions through Christ, the Law, and the Prophets to practice justice, make peace, refrain from oppression, help the poor, exercise sexual fidelity (the best long-term antidote to Africa’s HIV/AIDS epidemic), and seek reconciliation (essential for ending mass violence in Darfur and the Eastern Congo). God’s will concerns nations as well as individuals. Let us, on May 25, 2010 and afterward, do what we can, large or small, to be part of the solution. Let’s work actively toward God-centered liberation, revolution, and improvement in the Motherland and throughout the African Diaspora. Let’s act like salt, the preservative of the earth that Christ said His followers are, and serve as a conduit for His Light. May 2010 The Positive Community
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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY
www.thepositivecommunity.com April 2010
Vol. 10, No. 5
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
YO OUTH ENTREPRENEUR LEADERSHIP LEA ADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT T PROGRAM YOUTH g invittes the Children and Y oouth Ministries of our local Thee Positive Communityy magazine invites Youth churches chuurches to participate in this exciting new neew initiative! Thee Youth Development involve Yoouth Entrepreneur Leadership De evelopment Program endeavors to inv volve our youth in entrepreneurship enttrepreneurship and the economic and social s development of our communities. communitiees. Thee Youth Development following: Yoouth Entrepreneur Leadership De evelopment Program entails the follow wing:
Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson
p magazinees monthly at $1.00 1) Participating Churches will agree to purchase a minimum of 100 magazines per copy (1/3 of the cover price).
Herb Boyd Glenda Codogan
2) At least one member of one of the Ch Children/Youth hildren/Y Yoouth Ministry will take responsibility respo onsibility to:
Toni Parker Helene Fox Photographers Bob Gore
copy; a) selll the magazine @ $2.00 per co opy; b) tithe 10% of the profit of selling the magazine;
Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall
c) save 10% of the profit; ofit for an entrepreneurial endeavor orr worthwhile event; d) use the remaining 80% of the pro profit and
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.
experieences with this program that will be published pu ublished in The e) write an essay about their experiences Positive Community magazine inn print and/or online. 3) The Positive Community magazine will w help to document the participants’’ progress in selling the magazine, opening a bank account accounnt and using the monies to sponsor an event or respecctive ministry or for some other worthy worthhy purpose. entrepreneurial activity for the respective w also include a photograph(s) of the the participant(s) in 4) The Positive Community magazine will the magazine in print and/or online. 5) Parents will be asked to give permission permisssion for their children or adolescent too participate in this program. The parents would be expe expected cted to encourage their child or teen too take responsibility in accordance with thee expectations of the program. Positive Positive Community Community is is excited excited about about the the Youth Youth Entrepreneurship Entrepreneurship Program Program and and the the positive positive implications it it has has n ot only only ffor or our our youth youth but but our our churches churches and and communities communities as as well. well. implications not We llook ook forward forward to to sspeaking peaking w ith you you further further about about how how your your church church can can be be a part part ooff this this We with exciting exciting new new program! program!
The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for
For m ore information information contact contact Faith Faith Jackson Jackson (973) (973) 233-9200 233-9200 For more
unsolicited materials.
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The Positive Community May 2010
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