September 2012 Issue by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

September 2012

www.thepositivecommunity.com

$2.95

Brooklynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boys & Girls High School on an Upward Trajectory

Focus on Education

“We know our community. We live here.” Dr Philip Bonaparte, Chief Medical Officer, Horizon NJ Health “I feel the need to make a difference, not only in my life, but in the lives of others. I am involved in health issues facing predominantly the African-American and Latino community. I understand what it’s like to come from humble backgrounds. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield lives in New Jersey and we believe in access to quality healthcare for every resident. To me......it’s as important as breathing air.”

Horizon NJ Health can help you and your family, too. If you are uninsured, enroll in our NJ FamilyCare or NJ FamilyCare Advantage plans. To see if you’re eligible, call 1-877-4-KIDS-NJ.

Horizon NJ Health Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ® Registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®’ and SM Registered and service marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2011 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

You maY not be in it foR

the moneY (but Lord knows you’re going to needit.)

Just because you’ve chosen the path of God instead of the money trail doesn’t mean you should forsake your financial future. That’s where we come in. We’re MMBB. For over 100 years we’ve been offering investment, retirement and insurance benefits just for those who serve the church, both ordained and lay. To learn more about us and our financial products, visit www.mmbb.org or call 1-800-986-6222. Isn’t it time your money started working as hard as you?

Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling.

SEPTEMBER 2012

CONTENTS SECTIONS MONEY ............................................16 EDUCATION......................................29 HEALTH............................................51 CULTURE..........................................61

Features Brooklyn Boys & Girls H.S Revamps . . 29 Cover photo: President Barack Obama visits with Evan McRae, a nine-year-old Make-A-Wish recipient from Brooklyn, N.Y., in the Oval Office, July 19, 2012. McRae's mother, Gwendolyn McRae, and godmother, Darlene Harrison, accompanied him during the visit. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

&also inside

The Struggle for Freedom . . . . . . . . . . 33 Social Media: Too Much of a Good Thing? . . . . . . . . 37 Countdown to Freedom: Little Known Black History Facts. . . . . 42 Redemption, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

From the Publisher’s Desk . . . . . . . . . 11 Obesity and Women’s Health . . . . . . . 51 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 On Call. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Siblings: Dirden Brothers Work Together, Play Together . . . . . . . 61

Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Harlem’s Fire Hose Baptism. . . . . . . . 70

Spirit & Image . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Gospel Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Trinidad & Tobago Celebrate 50 Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Sistas Going Strong Off-Broadway . . . 74

The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

50 Years of Jamaican Independence. . . . . . . . . . . 76

Back-to-school for parents, too! Start your school year on the right foot by getting more involved in your child’s education. Here are some tips for parents. Provide resources at home for reading and learning. Families should have books and magazines on hand and read with their children each day. Set a good example. Families should show their children that they believe reading is enjoyable and useful. They shouldn’t spend all their time in front of the TV. Encourage children to do their best in school. Families must indicate that they believe education is important and that they want their children to do the best they possibly can at school. Emphasize academics. Many families get caught up in athletics and extracurricular activities, when academics should be their first concern. Support school rules and goals. Families should take care not to undermine school rules, discipline, or goals. Use pressure positively. Families should encourage children to do their best, but they should not apply too much pressure by setting unattainable goals or by involving them in too many activities. Call teachers early if there is a problem so there is still time to improve the situation.

When families and schools work together, our children are the winners!

New Jersey Education Association… working for great public schools for every child. Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vince Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/Research Director

doctor of ministry degree at

new york theoLogicaL seminary The Doctor of Ministry degree, granted by New York Theological Seminary (NYTS), is an advanced professional degree appropriate for clergy and lay professionals with significant ministry experience who desire to deepen and improve their ministries through a disciplined and integrative process of action, reflection, and research. The Rev. DR. FloyD h. Flake The Doctor of Ministry Congregational Ministries cohort presents:

Leadership for economic deveLopment with Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake, Adjunct Professor

Year One: Week 1: October 9-13, 2012 Week 2: Feb. 18-22, 2013 Week 3: June 24-28, 2013 Year Two Week 4: October 14 - 18, 2013

program objectives The primary objective of the program is to develop professional competencies, critical skills for reflection, the capacity for advanced theological research and interpretation, and effective interpersonal skills for service. The program is designed especially to prepare church leaders for customized ministries in the context of a multicultural, globalized, and increasingly urbanized world. The Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake is a leading proponent of the policies that make local community and economic development more achievable. Visit our website for additional DMin. tracks. Rolling admission, registration each September

NYTS | 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500, New York, NY 10115 | (T) 212.870.1211 | (F) 212.870.1236 | www.nyts.edu

GREAT

R C OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

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

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

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Kippie C. Brown, Pastor

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

First AME Zion Church, Brooklyn, NY Dr. Darran H. Mitchell, Pastor

Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ. Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor

First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Brunswick, NJ

New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper

Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem, NY Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor

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

Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Drek E. Broomes, President & CEO

St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor

It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Jesus Christ Family Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Jason Sumner, Senior Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Harlem Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

White Rock B.C, Edison, NJ Jason D. Greer, Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Zion Hill B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. Douglass L. Williams, III, Pastor

Businesses & Organizations

New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor

Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor

Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor

St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor

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

St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

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

The Annual Session of the United Missionary Baptist Association (UMBA) will convene

Rev. Lee A. Arrington Moderator Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr. Rev. Lee A. Arrington 1st Vice Moderator Moderator Rev. Dr.Rev. Anthony Lowe Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr. st 2nd Vice1Moderator Vice Moderator Rev. Dr.Lee Anthony Lowe Rev. Shepherd 2nd Vice Moderator Recording Secretary Rev. Shepherd Lee

Rev. Dr.Recording Calvin Kenrick Secretary Assistant Recording Secretary Rev. Dr. Calvin Kenrick

Assistant Recording Rev. Keith A Bolden, Sr. Secretary Financial Secretary Rev. Keith A Bolden, Sr.

Secretary Rev. Dr.Financial Jesse Williams AssistantRev. Financial Secretary Dr. Jesse Williams

Assistant Financial Secretary

Rev. Patricia A. Morris Corresponding Secretary Rev. Patricia A. Morris

Corresponding Secretary

Saturday October 6 thru Friday, October 12, 2012 at New Mt. Zion Baptist Church 171 West 140th Street, New York, NY 10030

Saturday, October 6, 2012 Annual Session Concert (6pm)

Thursday, October 11, 2012 Moderators Night

Rev. Arrington will deliver his Annual Address/Sermon

Rev. Dr. Sean P. Gardner, Sr. Rev. Dr. Sean P. Gardner, Sr. Treasurer Treasurer

Rev. Wayne A. Williams Rev. Wayne A. Williams AssistantAssistant Treasurer Treasurer Rev. Willie Hairston Rev. L. Willie L. Hairston Chief ofChief Staff of Staff Dr. F. Renee F. Gardner Rev. Dr.Rev. Renee Gardner ProgramProgram Chair Chair

Host Pastor Dr. Carl L. Washington

Moderator Rev. Lee A. Arrington

The Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., Ist Vice Moderator The Reverend Dr. Anthony Lowe, 2nd Vice Moderator For further information and full session schedule please visit our website www.umbachurches.org. UMBA HEADQUARTERS: Paradise Baptist Church 23 Fort Washington Avenue New York, New York 10032 Office (212) 781-3311 Fax (212) 787-7125

UMBA HEADQUARTERS: Paradise Baptist Church 23 Fort Washington Avenue New York, New York 10032 Office (212) 781-3311 Fax (212) 787-7125 se Baptist Church 23 Fort Washington Avenue New York, New York 10032 Office (212) 781-3311 Fax (212) 787-7125

EMPIRE BAPTIST MISSIONARY CONVENTION

117th r

tobe Monday, Oc

ION

ANNUAL SESS

, 2012 6 2 r e b o t c O 22 - Friday, Register today for the First

Women In Ministry Hour Dialogue with

Rev. Dr. Martha Simmons,

Thursday, October 25, 2012 2pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm

Creator of the African American Lectionary

GUEST PREACHER Rev. Dr. Jasmin Skulark, Pastor Shiloh Baptist Church, York, PA

All Women Clergy Are Welcome! Pastors, Ordained, Licensed, Seminarians, Ministers-in-Training

Sheraton at the Falls | 300 3rd Street | Niagara Falls, New York 14303 Registration is $25 for Female Clergy; $15 for Supporters Rev. Ronald Grant, President Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Rev. Lisa D. Jenkins Women In Ministry 2012 Coordinator

For more information, email ElDiJaeMinistries@gmail.com or call 646.450.6187 Like us on Facebook Women in Ministry (Empire Baptist Missionary Convention) Follow us on Twitter @EmpireBaptWIM

ADRIAN COUNCIL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

Join us for a unique, entertainment experience that’s enlightening, inspirational, life- affirming and fun—promoting health and happiness! Net proceeds to benefit Hal Jackson’s Youth Development Foundation/Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens.

Back to the Future: In Classic Black his issue marks the 13th anniversary of The Positive Community magazine. My business partner, editor and chief, Jean Nash Wells, our staff, and I are most grateful for the prayers, support and encouragement from so many— readers, churches, advertisers, vendors, friends and family. Through God’s grace and mercy, we continue to sustain and expand a vision of hope and opportunity; peace and goodwill for all! Recently, I accepted a role as New Jersey Chair of the Grand Jubilee Committee as we prepare a year-long celebration and observance of the sesquicentennial, 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. Founding members are: Newark City Councilmember Hon. Mildred Crump; Sis Nellie Suggs, General Baptist Convention of NJ; Jeannine LaRue, consultant, and Marcia Brown, Vice Chancellor at Rutgers Newark. We are now engaged in an awesome venture of projecting a vision for a positive African American community 50 years into the future and beyond! Two thousand thirteen (2013) is also the 50th anniversary of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s “March on Washington.”

A New Year It is our committee’s primary objective from this day thru December 31, 2012 to press forward the idea of concluding Watch Night service in African American congregationsincluding all denominations—with a single prayer, hymn and a reading of the “cultural narrative” in the Countdown to Freedom (see inside back-cover). Imagine the profound and timely impact this exercise could have as our people welcome 2013 in preparation for the next 150 years of freedom. On New Year’s Eve, together we will praise and worship God Almighty for His guidance and protection; and praise our ancestors, members of The People of God, for their prayers, struggles and sacrifices that we may see this day in freedom! On that night, we will pray for wisdom, knowledge and courage as a supreme act of faith, to ensure the dignity, hope and prosperity of future generations. Let this be a New Year that will proclaim and establish an enduring tradition that will be fondly remembered by our descendants on the eve of the bicentennial anniversary of the Great Emancipation (2063). “We’ve Come this Far by Faith” is the theme of the Grand Jubilee Committee’s year-long campaign. The Emancipation Proclamation—the abolishment of slavery—is one of three great historic events (including the Revolutionary War/Declaration of Independence and The

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Civil War) that transformed the soul of this nation. Spiritually, there is no other race whose story so mirrors the biblical experience in the Book of Exodus than that of the African American people. Possiblities and Potentials Together, through scripture, prayer and song, we will inaugurate 2013 as the Dawn of a New Age of Freedom—a future of possibilities and potentials! There is no cash investment required to join this noble, most patriotic cause! It only seeks a sincere, committed heart that bends toward the ideals of freedom and progress! On Friday September 28 at 7pm, The Positive Community and WBLS will host The Hal Jackson Memorial Dance Party-In Classic Black at Newark Symphony Hall’s historic Terrace Ballroom. Hal Jackson is a founder of Inner City Broadcasting’s WLIB/WBLS, a cultural icon who recently passed away at the age of 97, just weeks before he was to be honored by the Guinness Book of World Records for 75 years in radio. Hal would never tire of reminding us that he was the last to interview Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his radio show at WNJR. The next day, Dr. King travelled to Memphis to join the protests of striking sanitation workers. On the night of King’s assassination, Mr. Jackson was in Newark hosting a show and dance at Weequahic High School. He would proudly tell the story of how he averted a panic and near riot by appealing for calm and guiding the students to a safe, peaceful exit from the gymnasium. Life-affirming Music As a Black Radio pioneer, DJ and air personality Hal Jackson introduced us to the soundtrack of our most progressive years—songs of freedom, unity, cultural pride, peace, goodwill and love; a life-affirming music that we danced to. In this setting we will formally launch our committee’s Emancipation Awareness Initiative. Encourage your friends, family and neighbors to join us! Let’s commit ourselves to preserving Hal Jackson’s great legacy and the success of our young people! Join us for a unique, entertainment experience that’s enlightening, inspirational, life- affirming and fun—promoting health and happiness! Net proceeds to benefit Hal Jackson’s Youth Development Foundation/Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens. So, “B there or B square” … dress to impress—In Classic Black.

September 2012 The Positive Community

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.

School’s In

chool Daze was director Spike Lee’s movie concerning the African-American Greek (fraternities/sororities) organizations on a fictional college campus in the South. Well, school itself has begun across these United States and who knows what the world of academia can expect either in the elementary or secondary school systems. I am concerned about students in general, African American students in particular. Some districts don’t have the financial wherewithal to disseminate the proper resources to our early learners. So many much-needed programs find themselves with slashed budgets and classroom teachers are being asked to make bricks with straws, so to speak, without the assistance of administrations or their immediate supervisors. For the sake of public disclosure, I am an adjunct professor at an area junior college where remedial courses are a necessity for many youngsters coming from urban center school districts. The grammar falling from the lips of some of these education neophytes is deplorable and a few don’t care, much to my chagrin. I attended two in-service training sessions this past summer with the hope that we who teach can better

12 The Positive Community

September 2012

serve this population—a population that deserves an education as much as anybody else, thank you very much. At the church, we are working on better ways to strengthen both the academic and social skills of the youngsters entrusted in our care. And, I make it mandatory that their parents become an integral part of the processes. Why not? These are their kids. During the Summer Olympics in London, I watched Gabby Douglas and many of our other African American bronze, silver and gold medalists speak with such wonderful articulation that I was bursting with pride. These youngsters have accomplished excellence not only in their chosen sports, but also in diction, grammar and poise; a job well done indeed. I was proud of not just their physical prowess, but the way they carried themselves. We might as well face it. There’s much work to do in getting our youngsters prepared for the cold, cruel world they’ll face. Even when they come to the table with everything society said they needed to be successful —like President Barack Obama—they’ll still be challenged by detractors who use skin pigmentation to demean their humanity and make short shrift of their intellect. Be that as it may, they still have to produce. Every youthful person will not, repeat, NOT be a rap mogul who flies to Paris or visits the Cannes Film Festival. Every youngster will not find themselves on nonsensical reality shows where the bottom line is to make bundles of money and create high ratings for the network. Some will simply have to be contented with a 9 to 5 gig, a brown bagged lunch and two weeks of vacation. But the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continue to ring in my ears. I’m paraphrasing, but he said, “If you’re a street sweeper...be a good one, etc., etc.” So, let’s get to steppin’ and roll up our collective sleeves to do the grunt work for those coming behind us so that they will know they really do come from the gorgeous mosaic and the vivacious village.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

41st Annual New York Urban League

Football Classic

MORE THAN JUST A GAME New York Urban League is proud to announce it will return home to Yankee Stadium for the historic Football Classic where Hampton University and Morgan State University will meet on November 17, 2012. Join us as we introduce new exciting activities to this classic event. Your support of this game will continue to support the scholarship and educational programs provided by the League. Since its inception, proceeds from the game have helped to leverage over $20 million in Whitney M. Young, Jr. Educational Scholarships awarded to nearly 4,000 college bound students.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! New York Urban League Box Office

204 West 136th Street New York, NY 10030 P: 212.926.8000 ext. 222 F: 212.283.4948

Family Festival! Visit our website for more details about the Family Festival, including Kids Kick It!, a Pep Rally, a Vendors Fair and more…!

E: Football@nyul.org

For more locations visit

www.NYULFootballClassic.com  Group rates available in every section!

You can take the subway directly to Yankee Stadium!

To 161 Street – Yankee Stadium

The General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc. Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr. Convention President P.O. Box 47 Palmyra, New Jersey (856) 824-9429

1st Vice President

Seacoast Baptist Association, TheMissionary General Baptist Convention ofInc.

Rev. Kenneth D. R. Clayton 139-145 Albert M. Tyler Place Paterson NJ 07501 (973) 684-3203

Reverend Alexander Brown, Moderator (Host)

New Jersey, Inc. General Baptist Convention of NJ, Inc.

2nd Vice President Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor 224 First Street Englewood NJ 07631 (201) 569-7485

Reverend Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., President

SEMI-ANNUAL SESSION th

General Secretary

108 ANNUAL SESSION

Rev. Dr. Leo H. Graham 239 George Street New Brunswick NJ 08901 (609) 324-2751

Assistant Secretary

April 1719, 2012 Schedule of Events: Saturday, October 6, 2012, 8:00a.m. – 3:00p.m............. Youth Explosion (Youth Director will be mailing information to Churches and Directors) Theme: Visions to Victory “Answering the Call To Leadership” Saturday, October 6, 2012, 6:00p.m...... Ushers & Nurses Annual Session

Rev. Dr. Edward D. Harper 126 Wyncrest Road Marlboro NJ 07746 (732) 536-6115

Treasurer

Rev. Dr. Richard Pollard 40 Eastern Parkway Hillside, NJ 07205 (908) 686-6477

Financial Secretary

Pilgrim Baptist Church Romans 1:1‐6

Rev. Dr. Milton L. Hendricks 829 Tilton Road Pleasantville, NJ 08232 (609) 646-1815

President Emeritus

Sunday, October 7, 2012, 7:00p.m............. Superintendents & Directors Banquet at Sheraton Hotel 6 Industrial Way East, Eatontown, New Jersey

Rev. Dr. Calvin McKinney 419 Harrison Street Garfield NJ 07026 (973) 478-1033

Women’s Auxiliary Mrs. Thelma Scott 107 Baltimore Avenue Bridgeton NJ 08302 (856) 455-3371

Congress of Christian Education Bro. James Clark 452 Franklin Street Hillside NJ 07205 (973) 926-2365

Layman’s Movement Bro. Douglas Davis 204 Coudert Place So. Orange NJ 07079 (973) 634-3403

Host Association Host Church: Pilgrim Baptist Church “We know our community. 172 Shrewsbury Avenue Christian Fellowship Red Bank, New Jersey 07701 We live here. ReverendHost Pastor: Rev. Linwood McNeil Terrence K. Porter, Pastor ”

732-747-2343 Sis. Deadra Gibbons, Women’s Auxiliary, President Dr Philip Bonaparte, Chief Medical Officer, Horizon NJ Health Rev. John Shore, Jr., Moderator

Nurses Ministry

Sis. Serita Lanham 78 Union Street Jersey City,NJ 07304 (201) 434-7670

Hotel: Sheraton

“I feel the need to make a difference, not only in my life, but in the lives of others. I am involved in health issues facing predominantly the African-American and Latino community. I understand what it’s like to come from humble backgrounds.

Ushers Ministry

Deacon Johnnie Thomas 326 Park Place Irvington, NJ 07111 (973) 372-5050

Congregational Baptist Church 399-411 Bergen Street Newark, NJ October 071038—12, 2012 Annual Session…… Monday,

6 Industrial Way East Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell Jr., Convention President Eatontown, New Jersey 07724

Rev. Dr. Guyresident. Campbell, Jr. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield lives in New Jersey and we believe in access to quality healthcare for every To me......it’s as important as breathing air.” President, GBCNJ

732-542-6500

Room

Horizon NJ Health can help you and your family, too. If you are uninsured, enroll in our NJ FamilyCare or NJ FamilyCare ADVANTAGE plans. Reservation: Give of Event; General Baptist Convention of New call 1-877-7NJ-HEALTH (1-877-765-4325) To seeName if you’re eligible,

Theme: From Visions to Victory – Answering God’s Call Parking Subtheme: Answering the CallFree to Evangelism Isaiah 6:8

Horizon NJ Health

Jersey, Inc.

Community Baptist Church of Englewood

Celebrates its

80th Church Anniversary

C H O S E N JOHN 15:16

Church Anniversary Celebration Schedule Saturday, September 22nd, 2012 Luncheon - Royal Manor, Garfield, NJ 07026

Keynote Speaker

Rev. Gerald Lamont Thomas Shiloh Baptist Church Plainfield, NJ 07060

Sunday Worship Service September 23rd, 2012

Morning Services

8:00 & 11:00 am Rev. Dr. Anthony M. Chandler, Sr. Cedar Street Baptist Church Richmond, VA 23223

Evening Service 6:00 pm Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.

First Baptist Church Lincoln Gardens Somerset, NJ 08873 Community Ba ptis t Church of Englewood 2 24 F irs t Str ee t, Eng lewood, NJ 0 763 1 Re v. D r . Les ter W. Ta ylor , Jr .â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Se nior Pas tor 2 01 .56 8 .636 9 |F AX: 20 1 .568 .3512 |WWW.CBC OF E.NET

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

Golden Krust Awards Fifteen Scholarships

LEFT: 2012 Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne Golden Krust Scholarship Recipients L–R: Ana Costa, graduate of Mt. Vernon High School; Jennifer Glen, graduate of Alexander Hamilton High School; Lyan-Joy Lugay, graduate of Alexander Hamilton High School; Nyasha Nzingha Waller, graduate of Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School; Rachel Graham, graduate of Valhalla High School; Joel Burt-Miller, graduate of Bronx High School of Science and Rachael Cato, graduate of Dwight Morrow High School.

RIGHT: Herma Hawthorne (Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne GK Foundation Board Member) presents a basket of goodies to scholarship recipient Joel Burt-Miller along with Golden Krust executives Lorraine Morrison, Lorna Hawthorne, Velma Hawthorne and Lowell Hawthorne.

ifteen exceptional young men and women from New York, New Jersey, Georgia and Florida all have one thing in common—they are college bound students and recipients of scholarships courtesy of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill. Based upon essays they submitted, which were graded by a panel of judges for originality, creativity, grammar, content and community involvement, the students were chosen from dozens of applicants.

Golden Krust, the nation’s largest Caribbean franchise chain, awarded the scholarships at its headquarters in the South Bronx as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to give back to the communities in which its franchises are located. Since 2005, The Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne Golden Krust Foundation (named in honor of the parents of Lowell Hawthorne, the company’s founder and CEO) has awarded over 150 scholarships to graduating high school seniors, as well as students at

The Positive Community September 2012

Mr. Hawthorne’s alma mater, Oberlin High School in Jamaica, West Indies and established a $100,000 endowment toward scholarships to students with high aptitude who demonstrate financial need over a period of seven years at the Bronx Community College. In January 2010, the company pledged $100,000 to the University of the West Indies, the oldest, fully regional institution of higher learning in the Commonwealth Caribbean, to cover tuition costs for five students per year for a period of eight years. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Our Community Partners, Our Friends Welcome to the Community. sincere “thanks” to the following businesses, Our poster, The Great Countdown to Freedom (see in-

® corporations AmeriChoice of New Jersey,and Inc. institutions—community is now UnitedHealthcare have said “yes” The Positive Communitypartners—that Plan. But changing our name hasn’tto changed all the Community’s Countdown tostill Freedom, a cultural reasons New JerseyGreat families choose us. You get the same doctors, literacy initiative. the same access to specialists, the same large network of hospitals. As America the observance ofPlan the says 150th Changing our name approaches to UnitedHealthcare Community anniversary, the sesquicentennial of the Emancipation you’re part of a bigger community, over 3.3 million members strong, Proclamation on January 1, 2013, The Positive Community all across the country. So, New Jersey families can be confident is embarking upon a journey, a quest to discover the real they’ll receive the same great care.

meaning of freedom. Our hope is to inspire the dawn of a new age of progress and wisdom among our readers! Welcome to the Community. Call 1-866-322-1194 (TTY: 711) We will pursue this course through a search for knowlfor edge, information about UnitedHealthcare an increased understandingCommunity of the valuePlan. of literacy, education and culture in community life. (see thepositivecommunity.com MLK/Winter Issue, pg.11).

side back cover) contains a Cultural Narrative that tells our story, the genesis of the African American people in this land. We will accomplish much in advancing the cause of literacy, education and freedom if families, Sunday school programs, civic organizations and community institutions that touch the lives of young people would post and hold discussions on this story that tells us where we came from and who we are now as a people. Ideally, as a rite of passage, every child should have the ability to read, comprehend and speak the Cultural Narrative by the age of 15. Within this narrative—our American story—are the seeds of a positive community-building ideal: self-acceptance, self-reliance and self-respect!

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Queens College

Zora Neale Hurston (Barnard College 1928, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Student 1934–35) combined literature with anthropology, employing indigenous dialects to tell the stories of people in her native rural Florida and in the Caribbean. One of the most widely read authors of the Harlem Renaissance, she is best known for her novel Their Eyes Were Watching God.

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M. Moran Weston II (Columbia College 1930; Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 1940, 1969). The longtime rector of one of Harlem’s most prominent churches, Weston co-founded Carver Federal Savings Bank—the largest independent financial institution in the United States owned by African Americans. Weston was also the University’s first African American trustee. Columbia University Archives The Blanton-Peale Institute is a multifaith, non-sectarian educational and service Attorney General Eric Holder (Columbia organization that was founded in 1937 by NYTS has long been challenging College 1973, Columbia Law School 1976) worked for the the internationally famous pastor and author, the historic divides in NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund the summer the Rev. Norman Vincent Peale (of Marble theological education between after theory he graduated from law school. A former University Collegiate Church), and the eminent and practice, between trustee, Holder is the first African American attorney genpsychiatrist Dr. Smiley Blanton. the academy and the church, or eral of the United States one of the most experienced between theology andand other government lawyers ever named to the position. Blanton-Peale continues today to bring together spirituality and Columbia University disciplines of learning. To do so psychotherapy in programs that provide for psychological, emotional and effectively, the Seminary has spiritual health. Among its educational offers are a full residential often developed partnerships Robert L. Carter (Columbia Law School 1941), after serving training program that leads to licensure in psychotherapy or marriage with various other institutions in the U.S. Armyofduring World War II, became chief strateand family counseling, as well as a pastoral studies program. education or with organizations gist and lead counsel on the landmark Brown v. Board of committed to practical training Lonliness ~ Depression ~ Spiri...providing and learning. Education case. He succeeded Thurgood Marshall as general Individual counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Psychotherapy Educational Fund tual ~ Unhappines ~ Psychoanalysis in 1956, arguing For the past three decades, the and winning 21 of 22 cases before the Crisis ~ Training ~CommunicaDustin Ross/Columbia Couple and Family Counseling U.S. working Supremewith Court. Seminary has been University Parenting/Divorce Counselingtion ~ Therapy ~ Training Blanton-Peale Institute in Group Therapy partnership provide(Columbia resources College 1983) Lonliness ~ Depression ~ SpiriPresident BaracktoObama Psychiatric Evaluation to students, partner churches, was inaugurated as the nation’s first African American tual ~ Unhappines ~ Medication Management and others in the wider religious president on Jan. 20, 2009. A gifted orator and writer, community. Options include both Assessment and Referral Crisis ~ Training ~Communicahe organized his campaign with unparalleled grass roots degree and nondegree offerings. Trauma Therapy tion ~ Therapy ~ Training Lonlisupport and brought out record numbers of voters to the ...Our multidisciplinary team polls across the country. nessincludes ~ Depression ~ Spiritual ~ Eileen Barroso/Columbia Psychiatrists University As one observer has put it, with Unhappines ~ Psychoanalysis these efforts NYTS is actively Crisis ~ Training ~Communicaseeking “to redefine theological Social Workers education as we know it.” Pastoral Counselors tion ~ Therapy ~ Training LonliMONDAY - THURSDAY andof Family To learn more about thisMarriage key part our Therapists ness ~ Depression Spiritual ~ 8:00 AM - ~ 9:00 PM

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In 1947, Marie Maynard Daly (Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 1947) became the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry. Best known for research geared toward practical applications for health and nutrition, she investigated the effects of cholesterol, sugars and other nutrients on the heart. Daly also taught biochemistry at Columbia’s College of Physicians and Surgeons.

et’s mobilize and leverage our own creative talents, gifts expertise and resources to the mutual benefit of all. We invite forward thinking and community-minded businesses, corporations and institutions to join us as community partners—stakeholders— in this venture. Save the children, save the people, save the country! Celebrate heritage, community pride and dignity! Celebrate literacy, education and culture! Together, let us begin—right now—to prepare ourselves for the next 150 years of freedom—the dawn of a new age…because a positive community is everybody’s business…it really pays to care!!

local and national history, visit

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September 2012 The Positive Community

CMIT Solutions CMIT Solutions of Northern Union County

Recent Antivirus Patch Fiasco Highlights Pitfalls of Unvetted, Automatic Updates

recent update from a well-known consumer and enterprise antivirus software vendor left numerous users without Internet connectivity and/or unable to make changes within the program’s control panel. Unfortunately, problems caused by software patches are all too common. Though often intended to fix performance or security issues, companies sometimes push patches out before they’ve been thoroughly tested. Even software giants like Adobe and Microsoft aren’t immune. Users of CMIT Marathon have Microsoft critical and security updates managed by the service. Engineers at CMIT’s Network Operations Center thoroughly vet and test these updates to identify issues before they are pushed to our clients. It all happens behind the scenes without interrupting workday productivity. As a best practice, consider discussing your patch management process with an IT Service Professional. If you have any questions, contact CMIT, for additional information on how our services can benefit you.

While the antivirus vendor eventually corrected the damage by issuing another patch, business customers in particular lost both time and money from both the disruption to service as well as the effort required to troubleshoot and fix the problem. CMIT Solutions has the answers to all your technology questions, from Windows tips and tricks to malware protection to cloud computing. Contact us for a free, NO-OBLIGATION TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT, and you’ll understand why CMIT Solutions is the trusted technology advisor for 1000s of small businesses across the nation.

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The Positive Community September 2012

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Financial Education Seminars ● Bank On It! ● Money Matters ● To Your Credit ● Financial Recovery For more information or sign-up for a seminar*, contact the branch nearest you! City National Bank • New Jersey Branches Southside Branch Linda Campbell-Aaron Branch Manager 1080 Bergen Street Newark, NJ 07112 973-923-2005

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Swinging in the Sunshine Montclair Jazz Festival Showcases Professionals and Jazz House Kids

Preston Pinkett; Jazz House Kids student; Lovett Hines, director of Jazz House Big Band II; Melissa Walker; headliner Joe Lovano Photos: Barry Gray and Vincent Bryant

Beth Siegel, Jazz House Kids board member; Preston Pinkett; Scott Weiner, Jazz House Kids board member; Melissa Walker; Penny Joseph, Panasonic; Walter Bond; Margarethe Laurenzi, Jazz House Kids board member

City National Bank team

ity National Bank brought a day of swinging and exceptional music to the New Jersey metropolitan area at the 3rd annual Montclair Jazz Festival, Saturday, August 18 in the city’s Nishuane Park. The festival featured Joe Lovano, Christian McBride, The Bronx Horns, Dave Stryker’s Blue to the Bone, Michele Rosewoman’s Quintessence, and Radam Schwartz’s ORGAN-ized. Produced by Jazz House Kids under the direction of jazz vocalist and recording artist, Melissa Walker and with creative direction from bass virtuoso Christian McBride, the Montclair Jazz Festival featured world-class artistry in a family-friendly environment. “What started out as an end-of-summer camp concert for our kids and their parents has blossomed into a free major summer music event,” beamed Melissa Walker, president and founder of Jazz House Kids. “We see the festival as a wonderful gift from our organization and its supporters to music lovers across the tri-state area.” City National Bank, the festival’s first presenting sponsor, plays a pivotal role in strengthening urban communities. “Their mission beautifully aligns with ours at Jazz House Kids, and we are thrilled to have them as a partner in making communities stronger through the power of music,” said Walker. The festival is also supported by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. The Lindeblad School of Music of Pine Brook, New Jersey www.thepositivecommunity.com

Preston Pinkett and Melissa Walker, president & founder, Jazz House Kids;

and the Lindeblad family generously donated a Steinway grand piano for use at the August 18th festival and music lovers were treated to a lineup of that featured a unique trio with saxophonist and composer, Joe Lovano, Grammy-winning bassist and artistic chair of Jazz House Kids, Christian McBride and drumming sensation Billy Drummond. Some of the best Latin jazz and salsa horns on the worldwide music scene today and originally one of the mainstays of Tito Puente’s Latin ensemble, the Bronx Horns brought Latin dance music to the festival for the first time. More than 100 students from the Jazz House Kids Summer Music Workshop were showcased throughout the day and the entire artist faculty of Jazz House Kids Summer Jazz Workshop were featured in three of the professional bands —Blue to the Bone; Quintessence, ORGAN-ized. WBGO Jazz 88.3FM’s on-air hosts Sheila Anderson and Gary Walker were on hand to emcee, adding jazz knowledge and expertise as only WBGO can. Fans brought lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets to enjoy a day of sun, fun and music, and food and craft vendors were a popular option for last-minute attendees and those who just couldn’t resist the aromas. For more information about the Montclair Jazz Festival, visit www.montclairjazzfestival.org, visit the Facebook page or call 973-744-2273. September 2012 The Positive Community

A Voice for the People NJ Black Issues Convention Celebrates 30th Annual Leadership Conference

Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. NJBIC Lifetime Achievement Award

NJBIC Chair Elease Evans

NJBIC Conference Chair Jerome C. Harris

ommunity leaders and activists will mark the 30th Annual Black Leadership Conference, a state-wide forum, September 27- 29 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick, NJ. Conference Chair, Jerome C. Harris, states that the 2012 Annual Leadership Conference is a significant milestone in the history of NJBIC. It is a time to celebrate our shared legacy of unity, survival and progress. NJBIC’s success is the result of the work of many organizations and dedicated individuals. The many achievements of NJBIC include: New Jersey’ South African divestiture legislation, establishment of the Office of Minority Health at the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), legislative redistricting, Community Change Awards and the New Jersey Non-Partisan Voter Engagement Project. To celebrate the 30th anniversary milestone, NJBIC has enlisted speakers from the public, private, non profit, and education sectors to present the most current information on a number of topics. Experts will discuss issues surrounding NJBIC’s four task force areas: health and human services, education, law and public safety, economic opportunity and security. Conference speakers are: Dr. Molesi Asante of Temple University; Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr. of Cathedral International; NJ State Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver; Dr. Antoinette Ellis-Williams of New Jersey City University; Rev. Charles Atkins, chaplain with the N.J. Department of Corrections; Terry Melvin of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr., pastor, First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. Health issues are the focus on September 27. Health professionals and providers will present the most current information on heart disease, diabetes, and disability services, as well as Social Security and Medicare. NJBIC

The Positive Community September 2012

By Clyde C. Allen Chair, Elease Evans, notes that the main objective is to explore issues surrounding minority health to identify best practices, establish effective partnerships and offer preventive solutions and information that helps to close the health disparity gap. Youth and business sessions are set for Friday, September 28. The future of higher education will be discussed as well as a jobs focus during a panel on “Putting New Jersey Back to Work.” Recognition of the core volunteers from the staff of the late Donald K. Tucker occurs at Thursday evening’s 30th Gala Celebration Reception. The NJBIC Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Projects that are to receive the prestigious Community Change Awards are The Daily People’s Protest Campaign for Jobs, Peace, Equality and Justice; NJ Social Innovation Institute; the East Ward Joint Block Association Community Garden and Mom2Mom-UMDNJ. A celebratory rally is slated for Saturday’s Leadership Family Unity Breakfast and Forum where participants will discuss non-partisan voter registration, voting rights protection, voter education, and enjoy a keynote address by Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. of the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. Events of this magnitude require dedicated supporters. NJBIC is pleased to note the committed sponsors supporting NJBIC’s 30th Anniversary Leadership Conference that include AARP-NJ, Barnabas Health, PNC Bank, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, GEICO, Wellcare Health Systems, PSE&G, NJEA, NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities, NJ AFL-CIO, Bank of America, East Orange General Hospital, Cablevision, SEIU 1199, The Positive Community, Comcast, Atlantic City Electric, CWA NJ, and Community Education Centers, Inc. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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September 2012 The Positive Community

Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Brooklyn Boys & Girls High School ON AN UPWARD TRAJECTORY By Glenda Cadogan

Principal Bernard Gassaway and Chancellor of NYC Schools Dennis Walcott at Boys and Girls H.S. graduation.

he story of Boys & Girls High School in Brooklyn could have read something like this: “After the legendary rule of Frank Mickens, one Bernard Gassaway took over as principal, fired half the teachers and changed the name of the school.” And so it would have been if the NYC Department of Education (DOE) had its way. But it didn’t. Not under the rule of Bernard Gassaway, who has a history engraved in the school whose initials he carries. And so, BG—Bernard Gassaway, took on the task of turning B&G—Boys and Girls— into a model community high school. In doing so, he has scripted his own third person legacy. “I want people to say that there was a true renaissance that began when Bernard Gassaway came back to Boys & Girls High School,” he explained. “That he shared the vision of Frank Mickens and continues his great legacy. Because Bernard Gassaway understood the concept of sustainabil-

ity, he wanted the seeds he planted to grow long after he left. That’s why he went to great lengths to get buy-ins, not just from students and staff, but parents and the community at large so that everyone had a vested interest in what went on at Boys & Girls High School.” It may take years to manifest, but every day, as Principal Gassaway walks the halls of the Bed-Stuy school, he breathes life into this legacy. In 2009, Gassaway, a former teacher at Boys & Girls took over the school that had been steadily declining after Mickens retired in 2004. “Before Mickens died, I told him that one of two things was going to happen,” he recalled. “If the powers that be allowed me to come back to Boys & Girls as principal they would be crazy to do so, and I will be crazy to take it.” It turns out the DOE was “crazy” enough and offered him the position; he was “crazy” enough and took it. He continued next page

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September 2012 The Positive Community

BOYS AND GIRLS HIGH SCHOOOL continued from previous page

came in knowing that he had a Herculean task to fill the very large shoes of Mickens, the charismatic, no-nonsense principal who took the troubled school to national recognition as “the Pride and Joy of Bed-Stuy.” However, in the four years after Mickens retired, the school’s graduation rates plummeted to an all-time low. By the time Gassaway took over, it had landed on the state’s list of failing schools and was on the cutting board. The circumstances at the school were the perfect formula for closing —students ill-equipped to graduate, graduation numbers down, attendance low and incidents of violence high. The writing was on the wall and the death knell was tolling. The call from DOE was “Get the scores up or close the doors.” An alternative was possible, however. Gassaway was offered what seemed like an easy pass. Under the “Restart” intervention model, he could change up to 50 percent of the teachers, filter in betterequipped students and get $4 million toward consultancy and training. Initially, Gassaway seemed to be grabbing for the carrot, but when he learned that he would also have to change the name of the school, he turned the whole deal down. In regard to the $4 million, Gassaway explained, “It made no sense to me to take money that could not be

used for the things we needed. Why would I spend money on consultants to tell me what I already knew?” he asked rhetorically. Even as he agreed to take over the helm, he was acutely aware of the problems lying in wait at 1700 Fulton Street. “I knew that I would have to fight students, parents and even members of the community and the Board of Education,” he said. But what he found was much worse. “What I didn’t realize is that the young people would be so far behind and that teachers—who in a school like Boys & Girls were predominantly people of color—would be so negligent and incompetent.” The situation was painful. But his passion was stronger than the pain, so he stayed the course. “I was smart enough to know that I could not fill the shoes of Frank Mickens but that I could stand on his shoulders.” And so he did. Patterning his actions after Mickens, who was both revered and feared for walking the school with a claw hammer and bullhorn, Gassaway began to clean house. In his first three years he fired and replaced nine teachers whom he considered to be part of the problem. He reported what he believed to be systemic cheating on the part of administrators in his attempt to clean the “muddy data waters.”

“I knew that I would have to fight stuBernard Gassaway

dents, parents and even members of the community and the Board of Education,” he (Gassaway) said. But what he found was much worse. “What I didn’t realize is that the young people would be so far behind and that teachers—who in a school like Boys & Girls were predominantly people of color—would be so negligent and incompetent.”

30 The Positive Community

September 2012

www.thepositivecommunity.com

“The key elements needed for a successful school are competent teachers, effective leadership, involved parents, motivated young people and an engaged and invested community,” he said. “I know what it takes to turn around a school like Boys & Girls. There are other people who know the formula as well but they lack the courage to make the tough decisions because they are afraid to lose their jobs. So they put job security ahead of the well-being of students. I have no such fear.” With an enrollment of 1,500, about 80 percent of the student population at Boys & Girls receives some form of public assistance. “Part of the problem is a breakdown in the family and in some cases, a disconnect with the community,” Gassaway explained. “If you have a child in a home where education is not valued, then that is going to translate into not doing well in school. But we try to teach these students that there is no substitute for hard work and we help them develop a plan for life after high school.” He has done so by introducing new programs and forging community partnerships. He has also established a clergy council and introduced programs such as the Early Scholars Program where incoming freshmen can obtain up to 20 credits toward an associate degree. The

In Gassaway’s vision, Boys & Girls will be the epitome of a community high school. “I want Boys & Girls to become a school of choice where people are knocking on our doors like they are at Brooklyn Tech,” he stated. “The difference is that I am not going to do it by taking the cream off the top. I want to be able to educate every child who comes to our doors.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

school’s employment program guarantees every student a job once they maintain their academic standard. The CARE Center, a physical location at the school that houses 15 social services, has been receiving a lot of attention. The Center provides services in job training, mental health care, substance abuse and academic enrichment. The Scholars’ Academy started at the beginning of this school year, providing an avenue for 150 highly motivated students. In Gassaway’s vision, Boys & Girls will be the epitome of a community high school. “I want Boys & Girls to become a school of choice where people are knocking on our doors like they are at Brooklyn Tech,” he stated. “The difference is that I am not going to do it by taking the cream off the top. I want to be able to educate every child who comes to our doors.” And in the Gassaway formula there have been dividends. The graduation rate —though well below the national average— is up to 45 percent. This and other indicators show that Boys & Girls High School is on an upward trajectory toward its destination to once again being “the Pride and Joy of Bed-Stuy.” September 2012 The Positive Community

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Columbia and and City City Expand Expand Columbia Program am for for Minority, Minority, Women Women and and Progr Locally Based Based Contr Contractors actors Locally

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atherineJallim Jallimhas hasowned ownedher herown ownconstruction constructionbusiness businessforfor1111 atherine yearsand andthought thoughtshe sheknew kneweverything everythingthere therewas wastotoknow. know.Then Then years shewas wasaccepted acceptedinto intoColumbia ColumbiaUniversity’s University’stwo-year two-yearconstruction construction she mentorshipprogram, program,where whereshe shelearned learnedeven evenmore. more. mentorship has“helped “helpedmy mycompany companyimprove improveininmarketing, marketing,networking, networking,itsitssafety safety It Ithas program,”she shesaid. said.“I“Ihave haveincreased increasedmy mybonding bondingcapacity capacitysince sincelearning learning program,” howtotododoit ithere, here,and andI Ihave havereceived receivedsixsixcontracts contractssince sincejoining joiningthe theproprohow gram.” gram.” Columbiahas hasa arigorous rigorouscommitment commitmenttotominority, minority,women womenand andlocal local Columbia (MWL)business businessenterprises enterprisesand andsupports supportsthis thiscommitment commitmentthrough througha avarivari(MWL) initiatives.The Theconstruction constructionmentorship mentorshipprogram programwas wasformed formedininconconetyetyofofinitiatives. junctionwith withNew NewYork YorkCity’s City’sDepartment DepartmentofofSmall SmallBusiness BusinessServices Services(SBS) (SBS) junction January2008. 2008.Since Sincethen, then,professionals professionalsfrom from5353firms firmshave havegraduated graduatedand and ininJanuary garneredmore morethan than$60 $60million millionininconstruction constructiontrades tradeswork workwith withthe thecity city garnered andColumbia. Columbia. and “Fromthe thebeginning, beginning,our ourvision visionwas wastotocreate createa mentorship a mentorshipprogram programthat that “From wouldbenefit benefitMWL MWLfirms firmsininthe theconstruction constructiontrades tradesindustry industryand andhelp helpidenidenwould tifyfirms firmsthat thatmight mightbebeable abletotowork workwith withColumbia Columbiaororother otherlarge largeinstituinstitutify tionalfirms,” firms,”said saidJoe JoeIenuso, Ienuso,executive executivevice vicepresident presidentofofColumbia ColumbiaUniverUnivertional sityFacilities. Facilities.“We “Wehave havebeen beensuccessful successfulininboth bothregards.” regards.” sity Thetwo-year two-yearmentorship mentorshipprogram programincludes includesacademic academicwork workininsuch suchtoptopThe marketingand andcommunications, communications,disputes disputesand andnegotiations, negotiations,insurance insurance icsicsasasmarketing andbonds, bonds,asaswell wellasasproject projectplanning planningand andsustainability. sustainability.Professionals Professionalsinin and theprogram programwork workonona acase casestudy studyand andareareassigned assignedmentors mentorsfrom frombig bigconconthe structionfirms firmstotohelp helpthem themlearn learnthe thechallenges challengesofofbidding biddingononlarge-scale large-scale struction projects.When Whenthey theycomplete completethe theprogram, program,participants participantsreceive receivea acertificate certificate projects. fromColumbia’s Columbia’sSchool SchoolofofContinuing ContinuingEducation. Education. from

“Thecity cityhas hasmade madetremendous tremendousprogress progressininexpanding expandingthe the “The opportunities available to minority and women business opportunities available to minority and women business ownersunder underMayor MayorBloomberg’s Bloomberg’sleadership, leadership,but butthere thereisis owners stillmore moretotodo,” do,”said saidRob RobWalsh, Walsh,commissioner commissionerofofthe the still city’sDepartment DepartmentofofSmall SmallBusiness BusinessServices. Services. city’s “Withpartners partnerslike likeColumbia, Columbia,wewewill willcontinue continuetotohelp help “With minority-and andwomen-owned women-ownedbusinesses businessessucceed.” succeed.” minority“Asa asmall smallcompany companywewelearned learnedhow howtotoretain retaingood goodemployees, employees,totopropro“As moteour ourbusiness, business,and anddemonstrate demonstratecredibility credibilityasasa acompany,” company,”said saidYam Yam mote Gurung,ofofHarlem-based Harlem-basedJ&Y J&YElectric Electricand andIntercom IntercomCo. Co.Inc., Inc.,who whois ishalfhalfGurung, waythrough throughthe theprogram. program.“Since “Sincethe themarket marketis issosocompetitive, competitive,wewehave havetoto way constantlyimprove improveour ourskills skillstotogain gaina competitive a competitiveadvantage.” advantage.” constantly Lastyear, year,the thecity cityexpanded expandeditsitsminorityminority-and andwomen-owned women-ownedbusiness business Last efforts,which whichhad hadpreviously previouslybeen beenconfined confinedtotothe thepublic publicsector, sector,totoinclude include efforts, opportunitieswith withprivate privatecompanies companiesand andorganizations. organizations.Columbia Columbiais isone oneofof opportunities foundingpartners partnersininthe theCorporate CorporateAlliance AllianceProgram, Program,a apublic-private public-private 1111founding partnershipthat thataims aimstotoconnect connectMWL MWLparticipants participantstotoopportunities opportunitieswith with partnership corporatepartners. partners.“The “Thecity cityhas hasmade madetremendous tremendousprogress progressininexpanding expanding corporate

winners of the 1 Case Study Competition, integral of the construction mentorship program, awards. TheThe winners of the YearYear 1 Case Study Competition, an an integral partpart of the construction mentorship program, holdhold theirtheir awards. Gurung, Electric Intercom Company David Muñoz (mentor), Skanska Building Kimberlee FromFrom left:left: YamYam Gurung, J&YJ&Y Electric andand Intercom Company Inc.;Inc.; David Muñoz (mentor), Skanska USAUSA Building Inc.;Inc.; Kimberlee Kelley, Artisan Construction; Jorge Barbosa, U. Arias Corp. Kelley, Artisan Construction; Jorge Barbosa, U. Arias Corp.

theopportunities opportunitiesavailable availabletotominority minorityand andwomen womenbusiness businessowners ownersunder under the MayorBloomberg’s Bloomberg’sleadership, leadership,but butthere thereis isstill stillmore moretotodo,” do,”said saidRob RobWalsh, Walsh, Mayor commissionerofofthe thecity’s city’sDepartment DepartmentofofSmall SmallBusiness BusinessServices. Services.“With “With commissioner partnerslike likeColumbia, Columbia,wewewill willcontinue continuetotohelp helpminorityminority-and andwomenwomenpartners ownedbusinesses businessessucceed.” succeed.” owned TheUniversity’s University’sgoal goalis istotospend spendatatleast least3535percent percentofofallallconstruction construction The dollarswith withMWL MWLfirms firmsand andhave haveatatleast least4040percent percentofofitsitsconstruction constructionla-ladollars borforce forcemade madeupupofofwomen, women,minorities minoritiesand andlocal localworkers. workers.“We “Wehave havesome some bor themost mostaggressive aggressivegoals goalsaround,” around,”said saidLa-Verna La-VernaFountain, Fountain,vice vicepresident president ofofthe ConstructionBusiness BusinessServices Servicesand andCommunications. Communications.“It“Itwould wouldbebeimimforforConstruction possibletotoachieve achievethem themwithout withoutthe theactive activesupport supportofofour ourMWL MWLAdvisory Advisory possible Councilmade madeupupofoflocal localindustry industryexperts expertslike likethe theGreater GreaterHarlem HarlemChamber Chamber Council Commerce,the theHarlem HarlemBusiness BusinessAlliance Allianceand andthe theNew NewYork YorkWomen’s Women’s ofofCommerce, ChamberofofCommerce.” Commerce.” Chamber ColumbiaUniversity Universityhas hasreceived receiveda anumber numberofofaccolades accoladesrecently recentlyforforitsits Columbia groundbreakingwork. work.InInMay, May,the thefacilities facilitiesdepartment departmentwas wasrecognized recognizedforfor groundbreaking outstandingadvocacy advocacyononbehalf behalfofofthe theMinorityMinority-and andWomen-Owned Women-OwnedBusiBusioutstanding nessEnterprise EnterpriseCommunity. Community.Fountain Fountainherself herselfreceived receivedthe theMinorityMinority-and and ness Women-OwnedBusiness BusinessEnterprise EnterpriseAdvocate Advocateofofthe theYear YearAward AwardininJune. June. Women-Owned AndTanya TanyaPope, Pope,executive executivedirector directorofofConstruction ConstructionBusiness BusinessServices, Services,was was And namedananOutstanding OutstandingWoman Womanbybythe theNational NationalAssociation AssociationofofProfessional Professional named WomenininConstruction. Construction. Women additiontotothe theconstruction constructioncertificate/mentorship certificate/mentorshipprogram, program,the theEuEuInInaddition geneLang LangEntrepreneurship EntrepreneurshipCenter CenteratatColumbia ColumbiaBusiness BusinessSchool Schoolcontinues continues gene offera atwo-year two-yearprogram programproviding providingspecialized specializedassistance assistancetotoa awide widerange range totooffer MWLfirms. firms.The TheUniversity Universityalso alsois isexpanding expandingitsitsrole roleasasthe thehost hostofofthe the ofofMWL firstand andonly onlySmall SmallBusiness BusinessDevelopment DevelopmentCenter Center(SBDC) (SBDC)serving servingHarlem Harlem first andUpper UpperManhattan, Manhattan,which whichwill willprovide providetechnical technicalassistance, assistance,training trainingand and and supporttotoentrepreneurs, entrepreneurs,small smallbusinesses businessesand andnonprofit nonprofitorganizations organizationsinin support thelocal localcommunity. community. the

Visithttp://news.columbia.edu/mwl http://news.columbia.edu/mwltotolearn learn Visit moreabout aboutColumbia ColumbiaUniversity’s University’sMWL MWLinitiatives. initiatives. more

The Struggle for Freedom Continues: Let Us Live To Make Men Free By Dr. Linda Caldwell Epps

African American Soldiers in the Civil War

Photo: civil-war-journeys.org

oted founder of Tuskegee Institute, Booker T. Washington was a boy of nine in Virginia when the slaves on his plantation were freed. He recalled:

As the great day drew nearer, there was more singing in the slave quarters than usual. It was bolder, had more ring, and lasted later into the night. Most of the verses of the plantation songs had some reference to freedom . . . Some man who seemed to be a stranger (a United States officer, I presume) made a little speech and then read a rather long paper—the Emancipation Proclamation, I think. After the reading we were told that we were all free, and could go when and where we pleased. My mother, who was standing by my side, leaned over and kissed her children, while tears of joy ran down her cheeks. She explained to us what it all meant, that this was the day for which she had been so long praying but fearing that she would never live to see.*

This January we will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. This Proclamation is commonly thought of as the first legal document that freed the slaves. In truth it was only the first step in doing so —but, it was a very important first step. This should be a time of special relevance to all citizens and believers in freedom and equal opportunity for all of mankind. It should be of particular importance to African Americans for whom the Proclamation was issued. Unfortunately I find most people unaware of the anniversary or, even worse, apathetic about the need to recognize this anniversary. I am trying to understand why we feel we can afford to ignore such an important marker of the history of African people in the United States. In July 1863 Frederick Douglas wrote: "Once let the black man get upon his person the brass letters U.S., let him get an eagle on his button, and a musket on his soldier, and bullets in his pocket, and there is no power on earth or under the earth which can deny that he has earned the right of citizenship in the United States." www.thepositivecommunity.com

In a biography of General Ulysses S. Grant published in 1928, Mr. W. E. Woodward stated: “The American negroes are the only people in the history of the world, so far as I know, that ever became free without any effort of their own… the Civil War was not their business. They had not started the war nor ended it. They twanged banjos around the railroad stations, sang melodious spirituals, and believed that some Yankee would soon come along and give each of them forty actress of land and a mule.” ** Although the reference might be old and we would like to think this kind of archaic thinking belongs to the past, we have had ample evidence that this country, in many minds, is stuck in the 19th century as far as race relations are concerned. When I see t-shirts and bumper stickers saying “Any white man for president in 2012” or “N*ggers, It is the White House,” the longing to forget the past amongst African American people in particular is troubling. We are not post-racial and we cannot afford to forget our past, for that past is living with us today. Bethany Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, in conjunction with The Positive Community and The Harlem Book Fair—Newark is hosting a series of programs and trips that commemorate this 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. I encourage other churches, educational institutions, and community organizations to engage and facilitate programs to recognize the importance of the Proclamation and link it to this very precarious time when the.2012 election is looming. The second emancipation—the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s—brought us a few steps closer to achieving equality and freedom but the struggle continues. The future of true freedom is at risk. Lack of access to good schools, affordable health care and chronic unemployment are a threat to the ability to exercise those rights that are legally accessible to all. The Emancipation Proclamation is one of the greatest documents of all time. It laid the groundwork for the end of slavery and colonialism, not just in this country, but worldwide. I leave you with these words from the anthem of the Civil War, “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”: In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea, With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me: As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free, *www.mygrowthplan.org/Biographies/BookerT.Washington.htm ** James M. McPherson, The Negro’s Civil War, New York, New York, Vintage Books, 1993, p. xv ***^“Civil War Music: The Battle Hymn of the Republic”http://www.civilwar.org/education/history/on-the-homefront/culture/music/the-battlehymn-of-the-republic/the-battle-hymn-of-the.html. Retrieved 2012-08-05

September 2012 The Positive Community

Plainfield Youth Summit

outh Organization for Unity (Y.O.U.) of Plainfield, NJ held its second annual weekend Youth Summit in May of this year. The free weekend was planned by the youth for the youth and designed to promote peace, prosperity and unity among their peers. The theme of the summit was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Finding Your Voice.â&#x20AC;?

Members of the dance group Dance Floor Ownerz of Piscataway, and The Connect of Plainfield.

William Gary, founder of New Horizons College Club in Plainfield and recipient of the Youth Summit 2012 Community Leadership Award

Youth Summit 2012 organizers

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The Positive Community September 2012

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CUNY Rising_PosComm 8/20/12 1:22 PM Page 2

CUNY

John Jay College for Criminal Justice

RISING MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS SUPPORT RECORD ENROLLMENTS — AND HELP BOLSTER THE CITY’S ECONOMY.

ueled by unprecedented enrollment increases in the past decade, The City University of New York is generating needed construction and renovation programs that support both modern facilities for current and future generations of students and economic development in New York City. From 2001 to 2011, total full-time and parttime enrollment at CUNY campuses grew from about 197,000 to 270,000 — an increase of more than a third. During that same period, enrollment at the University’s community colleges increased a stunning 48 percent, from about 63,000 to more than 94,000. Today CUNY serves some 540,000 students at 24 institutions, including nearly 270,000 in adult, continuing and professional education. More top students are factoring into the mix. Last fall, the University accepted about 20,200 applicants with a high school GPA of 85 or above — that’s 7.8 percent more top applicants than the previous year and a remarkable 104.5 percent rise from the fall of 2002. “More high-achieving students than ever are recognizing the opportunity for a world-class education at CUNY,” said University Chancellor Matthew Goldstein.

20% of all NYC Construction To meet student demand, CUNY’s capital program currently has about $2 billion of projects in the pipeline, from modern laboratories to major renovations of historic buildings. Buoyed by lower construction costs, these projects collectively account for an estimated 20 percent of all construction activity today in New York City. Over the lifetime CUNY Advanced Science Research Center at City College

of the work, these projects will generate an estimated 14,000 jobs and provide about 1.9 million square feet of space. “CUNY is providing a powerful economic stimulus for the entire city,” said Iris Weinshall, Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning, Construction and Management. Since fiscal year 2008-09 — the beginning of the last recession — the University, with the support of the state and city, has invested $2.7 billion in capital projects across 24 institutions. Leading the way among the major new projects: • City College — CUNY Advanced Science Research Center and City College Science Facility The new CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, scheduled to open its doors in 2014, will provide a 206,000-square-foot research facility, among the most advanced in New York. It will support the concept of an integrated University, providing state-of-the-art laboratories for the University’s top faculty in nanoscience, photonics and environmental remote sensing. A second science building will provide new facilities for City College’s Science Division. • John Jay College — Multi-Use Facility This 600,000-square-foot structure, which opened in the fall of 2011, provides a dramatic expansion of the college, designed to match its fast-growing student community. The facility includes new classrooms and lecture halls, modern forensic science labs, instructional and research laboratories, offices, student activities and academic support services. • Medgar Evers College — Academic Building I Opened in the fall of 2010, this new building has helped meet the college’s acute space deficit, providing five floors of advanced classrooms and computer labs for all disciplines, as well as instructional labs and faculty offices for the School of Science, Health and Technology. The winner of a 2012 Building Brooklyn Award from the Chamber of Commerce, the 194,000square-foot structure also houses the college’s glass-domed dining facility. • College of Staten Island — Residence Halls Scheduled for completion next year, two new buildings will house 454 residents in 133 fully

furnished, single- and double-occupancy apartments. The four- and five-story residence halls will help transform the campus environment into a destination of choice for students from a wide geographical area. About half of the new buildings at CUNY are dedicated to science, and a number of these facilities incorporate environmentally sustainable strategies, certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Other major projects include: • The Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College — Created through a public/private partnership — and with the help of the largest gift ever to CUNY— the school’s new home in East Harlem opened its doors last year and includes the CUNY School of Public Health at Hunter College. • North Instructional Building and Library at Bronx Community College — Scheduled for completion in the fall, this innovative facility will enable the college to replace out-of-date instructional space with much-needed, state-ofthe-art classrooms and a modern library. • New CUNY Law School campus — Recently completing its move to Long Island City, Queens, the Law School has renovated six floors in a 14story, environmentally green building, with modern new classrooms, a library, clinic, moot courtroom and offices. • Fiterman Hall at Borough of Manhattan Community College — Opening this fall, the multi-use, 14-floor facility — with dramatic views of downtown Manhattan — replaces the former office building irreparably damaged during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. • New Science Facility at Lehman College — This new building, opening in the fall, is the first of a three-phase facility that will create the cornerstone of sciences at Lehman, showcasing the college’s major strengths in plant science teaching and research.

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Too Much of a Good Thing? Controlling Your Usage of Social Media

lot is being written about the effects of social media on the brain, how it may be changing the neural circuitry, shortening attention spans and reducing deep thinking and creativity. A group of researchers at Rutgers University in Newark, however, point out that to date there is little hard science to prove how social media may be changing the brain’s neural networks. What is known is that social media is now firmly part of our society and we have the choice to control it or not. The key point is whether one is in the driver’s seat or is being pulled along by the technology, notes Dr. Mauricio Delgado director of the Lab for Social Affective Neuroscience in the Department of Psychology at Rutgers-Newark. “For some people it’s a plus. It all depends on the urge and your ability to control it or shut it off,” he says. Dr. Paula Tallal, a Board of Governors professor of neuroscience at the Rutgers Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience (CMBN) and a pioneer researcher in the science of brain plasticity, adds that social media is now a critical part of training people to function well in society. “Social media is training us for the environment we live in now,” she says. She further notes that it is also a great tool for building communities where none existed before. One example is when students in a large lecture class start texting one another after class and end up forming smaller groups that can interact about the course material and other interests. “It’s like the idea behind sororities, fraternities and sports; it’s breaking people into small groups where they can feel connected,” she says. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Courtesy Rutgers University

The question people need to ask themselves, the researchers say, is whether social media is a benefit or hindrance in their lives. “If it’s starting to cause problems in your daily life, if you can’t remember what was said in class because you were busy texting, then you have to consider whether it’s become a compulsive behavior,” says Delgado. Dr. Joan Morrell, a professor of neuroscience at CMBN, who studies the neural circuitry that drives motivation, points out that in cases where social media has become a severe addiction the behavior most likely is masking a deeper issue. “It’s something people turn to but it’s not the problem itself,” she says. It could be an escape from such underlying issues as depression, anxiety or other mental health disorders. “If things are going on in your life that don’t allow you to meet your goals or are interfering with your ability to sleep, eat well and study, you need to reach out for appropriate help,” she says. The reasons why social media can potentially become “addictive” appear to be twofold. First, it’s a social reinforcer, says Delgado. The basic principle of social reinforcement is that people are more likely to perform a specific behavior if it is directly followed by something pleasurable, such as a “Like” on Facebook. Second, just as it has been shown with video games, social reinforcement such as receiving positive comments may be firing up the reward circuitry in the brain. One of the reward circuit’s natural functions is to Continued on next page September 2012 The Positive Community

Show Them the Money HBCU LINKUP and Zinch Connect to Make $2 Billion in Scholarship Dollars Accessible for HBCU Students Alvin Hartley president of HBCU LINKUP

hanks to the omnipresence of the internet and social media, there has been a radical shift in college search, application and admissions processes. Students today are organically embracing their social networks to research, discuss and even apply to their colleges. The African American community has lagged behind in these new and more efficient procedures due to the digital divide and many students are unaware of the opportunities for them within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Not knowing which colleges to apply to can also shortchange the scholarship application process. In an effort to connect social media with scholarship access and information, two established brands in the social college search and admissions space have partnered to combine resources. HBCU LINKUP, an educational and informational social networking website that features a network of HBCUs in addition to other colleges is connecting with Zinch, a networking

SOCIAL MEDIA

Continued from previous page provide a pleasurable feeling in response to outcomes of behaviors that are necessary for sustaining life, such as eating, to encourage repetition of that behavior. Addictions can develop when the pursuit of rewards becomes compulsive or obsessive. The good news with social media, says Delgado, is that it’s a behavioral issue and one most people can attempt to control. “It’s not a drug dependency.” His recommendation is that people should develop a strategy so they don’t end up becoming that person

site owned by Chegg, which allows students to research and begin the recruitment process as well as search and secure scholarships from colleges and universities around the world. “This partnership allows us to not only expand our reach into a broader audience to let more students know about our member colleges,” says Alvin Hartley, president of HBCU LINKUP parent company TMI & Partners, LTD. “We will also be able to provide more resources to help our current members pay for college. This is a win across the board.” Current members of HBCU LINKUP will be able to access their new Zinch resources via a badge on the homepage of HBCU LINKUP.com. Both HBCU LINKUP members and current Zinch members will receive ongoing information and promotions relative to the partnership. For more information on the HBCU LINKUP and Zinch partnership, please contact Tori Allen, tallen@ brainchildassociates.com or 678-884-4008, ext. 701.

who is having dinner with a friend but texting other people. “Just like any behavioral issue, like I drink too much soda, I shop too much, be aware of it and control it. Turn off the alert and vibrate on your phone. Have times when you are not connected to a screen and enjoy the environment and people around you.” For students beginning college, the researchers advise resisting the urge to text and check Facebook while in class. Pay attention to what is being said and turn off the phone. It may not be easy for those who have been raised looking at screens nearly every waking hour, but it is possible.

The Positive Community September 2012

Students, says Morrell, should be mindful that they or their parents are paying for their education after the students worked hard to qualify to meet the admission standards of the university. “Not giving classes and class work their fullest attention will likely undermine their larger goals,” she says. For those who find they are unable to control the social media urge, her strong recommendation is to turn to a mental health professional for help with regulating that behavior. “Sometimes you just need some tools and behavioral strategies to get the most out of life.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Preparing Your Child for High School and Beyond!

Marion P. Thomas Charter School has

5th Grade Openings!

To apply for enrollment contact:  Safe and Nurturing Enroll Your Child Today! To apply for enrollment Jeanette Taylor Environment Jeanettecontact: Taylor Middle School Office Manager • 308 S. 9th St. Newark  Experienced and Talented jtaylor@mptcs.org 973.792.0060 ext. 2 Preparing Your Child for Middle School•Office Manager Teachers High for School and Beyond! To contact:  Interactive Activities To apply apply for enrollment enrollment contact: 308 S. 9th St.  Newark Safe and Nurturing Environment involving Literacy, Math, Jeanette Taylor jtaylor@mptcs.org Experienced and Talented Teachers Jeanette Taylor Science, Computers and Interactive more Activities involving Literacy 973.792.0060 ext. 2 Middle School Office Manager Math, Science, Computers and more Middle School Office Manager  Breakfast and Lunch Served Breakfast and Lunch Served

th th St.  Newark 308 S. 9 308 S. 9 St.  Newark The Marion P. Thomas Charter School: Preparing Students for a Brighter Future Elementary School (PreK-4th Grade) Principal: Remi Dabney  370 S. 7th St.  Newark, NJ 07103 (973) 621-0060 Middle School (5th grade -8th grade) Principal: John Gamble  308 S. 9th St.  Newark, NJ 07103 (973) 792-0060

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

Front row, L-R – art winners Omar Shalabi, Angelia Herrera, Jasmine Standard and Robert Shi. Second Row, L-R – Skip Hartman (AAEA Contest Luncheon co-founder), Karin Buchholz (Director Of Community Outreach & Education At The United States Tennis Association), Barbara Wynn (AAEA Contest Founder), 106th Mayor of New York Honorable David Dinkins, Contest Winners’ Parents

2012 NJTL Arthur Ashe Essay & Art Contest Winners Announced

randon Torres of the Bronx was one of 14 national winners of the 14th annual NJTL Arthur Ashe Essay & Art Contest. The recipients, ages 18 years old and younger, were selected from 1,810 submissions from young people throughout America. To enter the contest, children were asked to write an essay of 350 words or less, or create an art piece, responding to a specific question around Arthur Ashe and his great accomplishments. This year’s question – “If Arthur Ashe were alive today, what do you think would give him hope?” A USTA sub-committee selected the winning essays from over 1,100 submitted based on their knowledge of Arthur Ashe, message clarity, and writing style. The winning art pieces, chosen from over 700 submissions, were also selected based on their knowledge of Arthur Ashe and creativity. “We are truly proud to recognize this year’s Ar-

The Positive Community September 2012

thur Ashe Essay & Art Contest for their ability to define Ashe’s legacy and his passion for uplifting youth through tennis and education,” said Karin Buchholz, director for Community Outreach & Education, USTA. “As students of NJTL chapters from around the country, their work shows the lasting and positive impact that tennis and education have on their lives, which is what Ashe hoped for all along.” Winners received round-trip airfare to New York City for themselves and a parent/legal guardian; two nights stay at the Grand Hyatt 42nd Street, and President’s Box tickets to the 2012 Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day presented by Hess on August 25 at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The weekend concluded with an awards luncheon on August 26, hosted by former New York City Mayor and USTA Board Member David Dinkins, where the winners received an honorary plaque. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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9/11/12

Essex County College Schedules Annual Golf Tournament Benefits Student Scholarships L–R: PNC Bank Vice President Stanley Weeks with NJ State Senator Ron Rice at last year’s event.

ssex County College (ECC) will sponsor its annual Golf & Tennis Scholarship Tournament on Monday, October 1 at the Maplewood Country Club in Maplewood. The tournament, a key source of money for the College Scholarship Fund, features round robin play in both golf and tennis.. “The money raised will help our most-deserving students earn a valuable college education and take the next step forward to achieve their dreams,” said College President Edythe M. Abdullah. “We invite you to renew your commitment to the students of your community college by taking part in this event or by making a gift of personal significance to the scholarship fund. Every day, we hear from students who are unable to continue their college education due to economic difficulties, we ask that you consider increasing your annual commitment to help give deserving Essex County College students an opportunity to succeed,” Dr. Abdullah added. “This is a wonderful event that will also bring hope to some of our students,” said ECC Director of Development Coleen Porcher. “The tournament presents a golden opportunity for companies to use the event as a vehicle for community building while supporting a good cause. It’s also fun for individuals who enjoy playing a round of golf or a lively tennis match to join with us.” The day’s activities begin at 10:30 a.m. and extend through the day, culminating with a reception and awards dinner at the club. A highlight of the evening is the heartfelt testimonies of former ECC students who were able to attend college in part because of the scholarship money generated through the tournament. Individuals can sign up to golf for $325 per person, or for tennis at $200 per person. Corporate sponsorships begin at $250. There are also a number of prize incentives, such as longest drive, offered at the tournament. For more information contact Assistant Dean Leigh Bello de Castro at (973) 877-3484 or via email: bellodecastro@essex.edu. Essex County College, an open access fully accredited community college dedicated to academic excellence, serves the dynamic needs of diverse constituencies through comprehensive educational programs and services. ECC offers multiple resources for academic and career growth at its main Newark campus, West Essex campus in West Caldwell, and satellite centers throughout Essex County. Essex County College enrolls more than 13,000 students who are pursuing credit courses in academic disciplines while thousands more are enrolled in ESL and adult literacy classes, short-term job training, and numerous programs for professional development and personal enrichment. www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

12:08 PM

Little-Known Black History Facts By R.L. Witter t’s September and as we send our children back to school, let’s equip them with more than just new clothes, backpacks, notebooks and pencils. Let’s give them some different school supplies that will pique their interest and curiosity. Instead of waiting for February, start off the academic year with these oft little-known Black History facts: • Allensworth is the only California community to be founded, financed and governed by AfricanAmericans. Created by Allen Allensworth in 1908, the town was built with the intention of establishing a self-sufficient, all-black city where AfricanAmericans could live their lives free of racial discrimination. • Artist Charles Alston founded the “306 Group”, a club that provided support and apprenticeship for African-American artists during the 1940s. It served as a studio space for prominent African-American artists such as poet Langston Hughes; sculptor Augusta Savage; and mixed-media artist Romare Bearden. • Louis Armstrong bought his first coronet at the age of seven with money he borrowed from his employers. He taught himself to play while in a home for juvenile delinquents. • After a long career as an actress and singer, Pearl Bailey earned a bachelor’s in theology from Georgetown University in 1985.

Louis Armstrong

42 The Positive Community

September 2012

• Before he was a renowned artist, Romare Bearden was also a talented baseball player. He was recruited by the Philadelphia Athletics on the pretext that he would agree to pass as white. He turned down the offer, instead choosing to work on his art. • When neurosurgeon Ben Carson was a child, his mother required him to read two library books a week and give her written reports, even though she was barely literate. She would then take the papers and pretend to carefully review them, placing a checkmark at the top of the page showing her approval. The assignments gave Carson his eventual love of reading and learning. • Politician and educator Shirley Chisholm survived three assassination attempts during her campaign for the 1972 U.S. presidential election. • Rap artist Chuck D has a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. • Revenue from musician Nat “King” Cole’s record sales financed a majority of Capitol Records’ success during the 1950’s so much so, that the distinctive Capitol Records building on in Los Angeles became known as “the house that Nat built.” • The St. John Coltrane African Orthodox Church in San Francisco uses jazz musician John Coltrane’s music and philosophy as sources for religious discovery. • Nancy Green a former slave, was employed in 1893 to promote the Aunt Jemima brand by demonstrating the pancake mix at expositions and fairs. She was a popular attraction because of her friendly personality, great story-telling, and warmth. Green signed a lifetime contract with the pancake company and her image was used for packaging and billboards. • In 1967, Robert H. Lawrence, Jr. became the first black man to be trained as an astronaut. Unfortunately, he died in a plane crash during flight training, and never made it into space. www.thepositivecommunity.com

PROFILES

• Heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis led protests against the U.S. Armed forces policies of segregation while he served in the Army during WW II. • Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team during his sophomore year for being undersized. • Harriet Ann Jacobs was a slave who published Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl in 1861 under the pseudonym Linda Brent. The book chronicles the hardships and sexual abuse she experienced as a female growing up in slavery. Jacobs fled slavery in 1835 by hiding in a crawlspace in her grandmother’s attic for nearly seven years before traveling to Philadelphia by boat, and eventually to New York. • History has credited Thomas Edison with the invention of the light bulb, but fewer people know about Lewis Latimer’s innovations toward its development. Until Latimer’s process for making carbon filament, Edison’s light bulbs would only burn for a few minutes. Latimer’s filament burned for several hours. • Cathay Williams was the one and only female Buffalo Soldier, posing as a man named William Cathay to enlist in the 38th infantry in 1866. She

•

served for two years before a doctor discovered that she was a woman, leading to her discharge. Black ingenuity helped devise creative—and effective—plans to escape enslavement. In 1848, husband-and-wife team William and Ellen Craft made it to the North, and eventually England, when she dressed as a white man and he posed as one of her slaves. A year later, Henry “Box” Brown literally mailed himself to freedom in a shipping box during a 27-hour trip from Richmond to Philadelphia. Baseball legend Jackie Robinson had an older brother, Matthew Robinson, who was also a star athlete in his own right. He won a silver medal in the 200-yard dash in the 1936 Olympics—coming in second to Jesse Owens. Architect Paul Williams mastered the art of drawing upside down so that he could sit across from — not next to—white clients who didn’t want to sit side-byside with a black person. Journalist Ida Wells-Barnett refused to give up her railcar seat for a white man in 1884, and bit a conductor on the hand when he tried to force her. She was dragged off the train. She sued the railroad and initially won, but the decision was overturned.

Joe Louis

Lewis Latimer

www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

Tiffany Tucker

Reclaim, Rebuild and Redirect By Glenda Cadogan

Members of Redemtion, Inc. surround NY State Governor Cuomo at the West Indian American Day Parade on Eastern Parkway Brooklyn.

By Glenda Cadogan

Tiffany A. Tucker’s Redemption Inc. Rescues Brooklyn Youth

tiba was a street gang member who had “swag.” He lived in a rough and tumble section of Brooklyn and his conduct was consistent with the influences of his neighborhood. Then he was introduced to Redemption Inc., an academic and community engagement program with a mission to “reclaim, rebuild and redirect.” Half way through the 28-week program, the words of Bob Marley, which form the foundation of the organization’s mission, became true in his life — he learned how to “emancipate yourself from mental slavery.” And though he took a good beating from his fellow gang members, Atiba had the courage to choose college over crime. He is a true representation of what redemption is and feels like. And it is success stories such as his that fuel the enthusiasm of 29-year-old Tiffany A. Tucker, who founded the organization in 2003. Its purpose: to help young people get to and stay in college. “It is people like Atiba and so many others who inspire me as I continue on this journey,” Tucker, president and CEO told The Positive Community. Tucker, a product of the New York City Public School system and a graduate of Adelphi University, started the organization when she was 19-years-old. Frustrated by what she saw as the misguided actions of guidance counselors and school administrators, Tucker, a native Brooklynite, decided to take some definitive action. “While in high school, I saw how many of my peers who missed classes were being encouraged to drop out and get their GED rather than graduate with their class,” she said. “I knew that a lot of them had the desire to graduate but they lacked the support needed to make that a reality. I thought that someone needed to give them the guidance.” That someone, she soon found out, was her. And so Redemption Inc. was born with a mandate of getting young people to college.

The Positive Community September 2012

It started with just one program called College to College. Along with her college friends, Tucker compiled a complete handbook of everything it takes a get to college. They visited the parks, dance halls and everywhere that young people congregated and distributed the material. In 2010 Harvard University listed Redemption Inc. as a “bright idea” and Tucker decided it was time to “own what we were doing. I knew that I had to make the organization sustainable.” In order to do so, she left her job in the public sector and made Redemption a full-time endeavor. Redemption Inc. continues to function as a resource of communication and guidance for youth and now has three major programs and one signature event. Serving over 5,000 students since its inception, there is no cost attached to any of Redemption Inc.’s services or programs. The Redemption Study Hall is a program providing tutoring for young people ages 13-19. The Youth Council consists of students from various high schools in Brooklyn who meet weekly to plan and implement activities, address youth issues and facilitate workshops to encourage their peers. The College Support Network offers continued academic, career, social and emotional support to graduates. The signature event that the organization has held every year since its inception is called, “Get Your Mind Right.” The end of summer event not only distributes free school supplies, but helps students get their minds in gear for the reopening of school and the beginning of a new school year. This year, Tucker took the organization one step further when she teamed up with the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) and 20 other organizations to showcase what they called: “The Good in Brooklyn,” showcasing the borough as a good place to live, grow and raise a family. Continued on page 50 www.thepositivecommunity.com

People of all Nations are invited to attend New York Theological Seminaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Open House

for Women and Men Responding to Their Call to Ministry

October 16 - October 18, 2012 (4:00-6:00 pm) Roundtable discussions with NYTS Community (6:00-9:00 pm) Visit the class(es) of your choice

The City is Our Campus.

Reserve your Life Changing Space at this Special Place Contact: Dr. Cynthia Diaz Director, Student Affairs and Vocational Discernment cdiaz@nyts.edu 212-870-1212

475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500|New York, NY 10115|Tel: 212.870.1211|Fax: 212.870.1236|www.nyts.edu

NYSCAS New York School of Career and Applied Studies

TOURO

COLLEGE

www.touro.edu/nyscas

et’s play with some numbers. Ready? Try this one: According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, an individual who has earned a bachelor’s degree can expect to earn, in the course of a working lifetime, over one million dollars more than a person who has only a high school diploma. That’s an average of $25,000 more a year over a 40-year career. Any way you slice it, that’s a pretty impressive figure. How about another one: In an economy where the overall unemployment rate is now 9.1% (many sources estimate the true rate to actually be much higher), for college graduates that rate shrinks to less than 6%. Whether we like it or not, much of life is about numbers, bottom lines, making ends meet. If the numbers above don’t seem reason enough to get a college education, perhaps you should read them again! At Touro College’s New York School of Career and Applied Studies (NYSCAS), we believe that our school can help put you on the road that will make that kind of economic difference in your career.

Why NYSCAS? Maybe it’s our wide variety of programs, from business to paralegal studies, to human services, to digital multimedia design and more. Maybe it’s because at NYSCAS you instantly become a member of the Touro College family, treated with special concern and care from the moment you enroll to the day you receive your diploma. Maybe it’s our professional staff of advisors who will help you with admissions, program planning, and any concerns you may have during the course of your college education. Maybe it’s our highly skilled financial aid counselors, who will do their utmost to help you get you every dollar you qualify for so that you can afford your education (generous in-house scholarships are also available to those who qualify). Sound good so far? There’s more. One of the great advantages at NYSCAS is convenience. We have a total of 10 convenient locations in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan, each one very close to mass transportation. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening classes—even on Sundays-- all designed to fit the busy

The Positive Community September 2012

schedules that so many of our students must keep up with. So what’s the downside? None that we can see! Yes, it’s college and you are going to work hard for your degree, but as Thomas Paine pointed out in The American Crisis, “What we obtain too cheap, we value too lightly.” And yes, you’ll earn your degree through individual effort, but you’ll never be alone. Our faculty will be there to help you every step of the way, bringing their academic expertise and years of real- world experience to the classroom. Why not give us a call at 718-2-SCHOOL ext. 1003 and make an appointment to come in and speak with one of our admissions counselors? Or drop by one of our many sites whenever it’s convenient for you. You can also log onto our website at www.touro. edu/nyscas and find descriptions of the programs and courses that are available to you. Give us a call! Isn’t it about time that you got into the numbers game yourself? Touro College is an equal opportunity institution www.thepositivecommunity.com

New York School of Career and Applied Studies

Get on the Road to Success!

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x5500 Midtown QuEEnS: 718.353.6400 x107 Flushing 718.520.5107 x102 Forest Hills BROOKlYn: 718.265.6534 x1003

Bensonhurst, Brighton Beach, Flatbush, Kings Highway, Starrett City, Sunset Park Touro College is an equal opportunity institution

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840 North Broad Street Elizabeth, NJ 07208 www.benedictineacad.org

NEXT MONTH:

Gwen Moten's History of African American Music, Part II

Future Leaders Faith-based College Prep for Grades 9â&#x20AC;&#x201D;12 21st Century learning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Free laptop for every student Grads accepted to the Ivy Leagues Rigorous academics, sports, clubs and service Academic scholarships and tuition assistance National Jefferson Award for Public Service

Bring your daughter to an Open House: Sunday, 10/21; Wednesday, 11/7; Saturday, 12/1; or Saturday, 1/5/13. Call Ms. Branco, Admissions, 908-352-0670 x 104 for an appointment.

Young supporters of the NAACP Monclair Branch

At the Harlem Book Fair Photo: Wali Amin Muhammad

Keisha Sutton-James (r) with her mother Charlotte and children Nola (standing) and Shelby enjoy the Harlem Book Fair.

The Positive Community September 2012

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Where Faith & Knowledge Meet The Rutgers School of Sociology and Anthropology &

The Newark School of Theology present

The Bible in Public Discourse The Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Newark (serving

Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties) offer a positive, encouraging and safe environment where children can grow in body, mind, and spirit. Our caring, qualified teachers provide a strong academic foundation. We are deeply committed to helping students develop into productive, responsible adults and citizens with goals and direction. 3 97% of graduates advance to college 3 NJ core content standards met or exceeded 3 High academic standards 3 Christ-centered values

Guest Speaker

Rev. Norman K. Gottwald, Ph.D.

Past President, The Society of Biblical Literature

Wednesday, September 26, 2012 7:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 p.m. Rutgers University, University Club Paul Robeson Campus Center 350 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd Newark, NJ For more information contact

The Newark School of Theology Two Park Place, Newark, NJ Mail: P.O. Box 831 Newark, New Jersey 07101

Telephone (973) 297-0505 www.newarkschooloftheology.org www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

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Continued from page 44 “Every day I get an opportunity to see so many young people in Brooklyn who are doing great things,” she said. “Yet we only hear about the negatives.” So when approached by Thomas Bailey, president of WIADCA to help make a statement on Eastern Parkway, the team marched in the Caribbean parade under the banner: The Good in Brooklyn. There are many other young people like Atiba who have found “emancipation” through their involvement in Redemption Inc. And their lives continue to support Tucker’s vision of “letting young people understand that they are more than what they see in their current environment.” Kevin Louis, a member of the Youth Council, sings his “redemption song” this way: “Redemption put me on the right track, teaching me that you have to do what you need to do now, so that you can do what you want to do later!”

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

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

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The Little Chapel with a Big Heart 50

The Positive Community September 2012

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

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Health P r e v e n t i o n , T r e atm e n t & C u r e

Let’s Get Healthy

Women Who are Overweight or Obese Face Increased Risk of Recurrence of Breast Cancer

omen, it’s time to get real about losing weight and becoming healthy. Extra pounds—even within the overweight but not obese range—are linked to a higher risk of recurrence of the most common type of breast cancer despite optimal cancer treatment, according to a new study published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. The study’s results suggest that extra body fat causes hormonal changes and inflammation that may drive some cases of breast cancer to spread and recur despite treatment. Women who are obese when they are diagnosed with breast cancer have an increased risk of dying prematurely compared with women of normal weight. In this new study, Joseph Sparano, MD, of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s Montefiore Medical Center, in Bronx, NY, and his colleagues across the US cancer cooperative groups compared the health outcomes of obese and overweight patients with others in a large group of women with stage I-III breast cancer who had participated in three National Cancer Institute–sponsored treatment trials led by the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (now part of the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group). All of the trials required participants to have normal heart, kidney, liver, and bone marrow function, thereby excluding patients with other significant health issues. As a result, researchers were able to www.thepositivecommunity.com

disentangle the influence of obesity from other factors affecting cancer recurrence and survival. The researchers found that increasing body mass index—a measure of the body’s fat content—significantly increased women’s risk of cancer recurrence and death, despite optimal treatment including chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. There was a stepwise relationship between increasing body mass index and poor outcomes only in women with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer, the most common type of breast cancer that accounts for approximately twothirds of all breast cancer cases in the United States and worldwide. “We found that obesity at diagnosis of breast cancer is associated with about a 30 percent higher risk of recurrence and a nearly 50 percent higher risk of death despite optimal treatment,” said Dr. Sparano. “Treatment strategies aimed at interfering with hormonal changes and inflammation caused by obesity may help reduce the risk of recurrence,” he added. Editor’s note: Many of us extol the virtues of First Lady Michelle Obama. Although her well received program “Let’s Move” was designed primarily for children to keep them from becoming overweight and obese, we adults can take a page from that book, too. So let’s all honor her work and begin a program of healthy eating and exercise and cut down the number of severe illnesses and deaths caused by cancer. Let’s move! September 2012 The Positive Community

Protect Yourself and Your Family, Get Vaccinated Mary E. O’dowd, Commissioner New Jersey Department Of Health

mmunization is one of the most powerful tools available to protect the health of individuals and our communities. Vaccines are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases that were once common in this country and around the world, including polio, measles, diphtheria, rubella and mumps. Vaccines eradicated smallpox, one of the most devastating diseases in history. Over the years, vaccines have prevented countless cases of infectious diseases and saved literally millions of lives. August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a good time for New Jerseyans of all ages to protect themselves and their communities by catching up on their vaccinations. We never outgrow our need for immunizations. Across the lifespan, from babies to seniors—immunizations reduce disease and save lives. With the new school year approaching, it’s the perfect time to ask your health care provider which immunizations your child needs in order to be up-to-date for back to school. Vaccines are safe, effective and critically important for young children, who are especially vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases. Thanks to widespread vaccinations, many diseases are not commonly seen in the U.S and parents are often unaware their children are still at risk for many serious and life-threatening diseases. Vaccine-preventable diseases such as varicella (chickenpox), measles, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough), and diphtheria can result in hospitalizations and even premature death. Recently, New Jersey and the nation have seen increases in the vaccine-preventable disease pertussis known as whooping cough. Pertussis is a very contagious disease that can cause serious illness and even death, especially in infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated. In 2010, the United States had 25 infants, less than one year of age, die from pertussis and more

The Positive Community September 2012

than half of infants who contract the disease require hospitalization. Infants and young children need their recommended five shots of DTaP for maximum protection. Adolescent and adult booster vaccination with Tdap is important for everybody and especially for those who will be around infants. By ensuring that both children and adults are immunized, we can greatly limit the spread of this illness that can be fatal in young children if not properly treated. Diseases are often brought into this country by people who get infected abroad and can rapidly spread among susceptible individuals in our schools and communities. For example, an imported disease outbreak occurred from June 2009 through June 2010 when approximately 3,500 cases of mumps were reported in New York City, two upstate New York counties and Ocean County in New Jersey. There were 425 cases reported in Ocean County alone. As part of this outbreak, 41 patients were hospitalized. The initial patient for this outbreak was an 11-year-old child who returned to the United States from the United Kingdom. The child became ill while attending a summer camp exposing other campers— who then spread the infection within their communities when they returned home. Vaccine-preventable diseases can have devastating effects on a child’s health. There are far too many stories of parents who chose to space or skip vaccinations and the bad outcomes that resulted. Many of those who survived needed to relearn basic skills like talking, eating and walking, and required ongoing medical care. For more information on the impacts of vaccine-preventable diseases visit http://www.cdc.gov/VACCINes/vpd-vac/ unprotected-stories.htm. It is critical that children and adults get vaccinations in a timely manner. Continued on page 54 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Now I have $280 in credits to buy the health care supplies I need. That’s one less thing for me to worry about. If you have Medicaid and Medicare Parts A and B, find out what you could be missing. You could get more benefits than Original Medicare with UnitedHealthcare® Dual Complete™ (HMO SNP). Our benefits include:

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UnitedHealthcare® Medicare Advantage plans are offered by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company and its affiliated companies, a Coordinated Care plan with a Medicare Advantage contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Limitations, copayments and coinsurance may apply. Benefits may vary by county and plan. The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefits. For more information contact the plan. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/co-insurance may change on January 1, 2013. H3164_120508_173004 File & Use 05142012

NJ12-DU001_3416729

Summer of ‘Eating for Good Health’

mblemHealth has joined with Harvest Home Farmer’s to promote its “Eating for Good Health” program. Along with the fresh fruits and vegetables, now through November, shoppers can learn how to prepare them in the healthiest ways at Harvest Home Farmer’s Markets in Community educator the Bronx, Brooklyn, Harlem and Queens. Community educooking demonstration cators use foods from the farmer’s markets to prepare delicious and nutritious dishes during cooking demonstrations held right out in the open. The events are sponsored by EmblemHealth, which also provides on the spot health and wellness screenings. “Good health starts with excellent nutrition. It’s a privilege to work with Harvest Home to offer families fresh fruits and vegetables from nearby farms and promote better eating. Good nutrition helps hold down extra weight, which can lead to heart disease and diabetes,” said William A. Gillespie, MD, Chief Medical Officer, EmblemHealth. Harvest Home Farmer’s Market (HHFM) is New York State’s largest operator of farmers markets in high-need, low income communities. Maritza Wellington Owens, Harvest Home Farmer's Market CEO, founded the non-for-profit in 1993 “Our goal with Harvest Home is to make the farmer’s market a community gathering center, where residents can shop for nutritious food, participate in activities and education programs, and spend an enjoyable time socializing with friends and family,” she explained. HHFM currently manages a network of eighteen (18) markets reaching 180,000 shoppers a season.

VACCINATIONS continued from page 52 Most childhood vaccines should be given by age two, with some follow-up doses at ages four to six. Immunizations are important for older children, too. In addition to ensuring childhood vaccines are current, adolescents need tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis vaccine to protect against meningococcal disease. College students living in dormitories need meningococcal vaccine. Older adults may need tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, shingles, or pneumococcal vaccine. All individuals may need other immunizations, too, depending on age, vaccination history, medical conditions, high-risk exposures, or type and location of travel. Check with your health care provider on what vaccinations you may need based on your individual situation. Vaccines are the safest and most effective tool we have for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases—they protect both the people who receive them and those with whom they come in contact. The Department of Health encourages all people to protect their health by being immunized against infectious diseases. More information about immunization requirements is available through the NJDOH website at www. state.nj.us/health/cd/imm.shtml. Information about vaccines and recommended schedules is available through the CDC website www.cdc.gov/vaccines.

The Positive Community September 2012

Harlem resident Maria Alemina gets a free health screening from Chris Peralta, program specialist in EmblemHealth’s Health and Wellness department, at the Mt. Morris Park Historic District Market.

The following is the schedule for the Harvest Home Farmer's Markets: Bronx Mt. Eden Avenue Market - Thursdays through Dec. 20, 2012 Cooking Demonstrations begin continue through Oct. 25, 2012 Claremont Park, Mt. Eden and Morris Avenues Brooklyn Coney Island Hospital Market - Fridays through Nov. 16, 2012 Cooking Demonstrations begin July 13, 2012 through Oct. 26, 2012 Ocean Parkway between Avenue Z and Shore Road Harlem Mt. Morris Park Historic District Market Saturdays through Nov. 17, 2012 Cooking Demonstrations continue through Oct. 27, 2012 120th Street and Lenox Avenue West Harlem Farmer’s Market – Tuesdays through Nov. 20, 2012 Cooking Demonstrations continue through Nov. 20, 2012 137th Street and Broadway Queens Roy Wilkins Park Farmer’s Market Saturdays through Nov. 17, 2012 Merrick and Baisley Boulevards For more information, please visit www.harvesthomefm.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Ovarian Cancer Q&A Dear Dr. Bonaparte: I heard that ovarian cancer has been called “the cancer that whispers.” I did get a Pap test and a mammogram, along with other health screenings, but what are the signs or risks of ovarian cancer? —Anna Dear Anna: Congratulations on working to keep healthy and getting the needed preventive screenings, like the Pap test (also called a Pap smear). However, a Pap test only screens for cancer of the cervix and not ovarian cancer. Although your doctor may have performed a pelvic exam to check your ovaries, unlike a mammogram and Pap test, there is no routine method to screen for ovarian cancer. Describing ovarian cancer as a silent cancer seems about right. For years, ovarian cancer was considered a subtle or vague cancer with few known signs during the early stages of the disease. Women did not know that they had this type of cancer until the cancer was in its late stages. That is why it is so important to learn about this disease. Remember, speak with your doctor, gynecologist and other healthcare professionals on a regular basis; talk about your health concerns and family history. At present, women who do not have or show any signs of ovarian cancer are not usually screened. Some signs may be a hint of possible ovarian cancer, but the signs and symptoms are often like those of other, noncancerous conditions, such as digestive system (intestinal) or bladder problems. Some warning signs may include any of the following symptoms:

56 The Positive Community

September 2012

• Vaginal bleeding (mostly in women after the change of life (post menopause) or vaginal discharge not normal for you • Pain, discomfort or pressure in the stomach or pelvic area • Feeling full rather quickly during meals • Swelling or bloating • Continued heartburn, upset stomach or gas • Loss of appetite • Lower back pain • Constant low energy • Change in bladder or bowel habits, such as frequent need to pass urine, constipation or diarrhea If you have any of these signs or symptoms every day for more than a couple of weeks, talk with your doctor. Know what is normal for your body. When present, ovarian cancer symptoms can continue to worsen over time. In recent years, treatments for ovarian cancer have become more effective and the best results are seen in the early stages of the disease. In fact, the American Cancer Society data show that, with diagnosis and treatment in the earliest stages of the disease, the five year survival rate is more than 90 percent. Although every woman is at risk, older women are more likely to get the disease than younger women. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) note that about 90 percent of women who get ovarian cancer are older than 40 years old. The majority of cases are found in women 60 years old or older.

Some factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cancer include: • A family history of cancer: breast, colon or ovarian (mother or sister, etc.) • Gene mutations • Hormone replacement therapy after menopause. The longer the replacement therapy, the higher the possible risk • Advancing age (post menopause) • Having never given birth • Obese women with too much body fat, particularly in their teen years • Previous cancer diagnosis Some factors may lower your risk of ovarian cancer in varying degrees: • Using birth control pills for three years or longer • Tubal ligation (most often performed to prevent pregnancy); a hysterectomy when the uterus and possibly the cervix are removed or by having both ovaries removed • Giving birth to one or more children, especially before age 30 • Breastfeeding, especially for one year or more As I mentioned, speak with your doctors or healthcare professionals, who all have your continued health as their goal, as well. For more information, visit: CDC website at: http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/pdf/ovarian_facts.pdf and the National Cancer Institute at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/ovarian/Pat ient/page3#Keypoint3. www.thepositivecommunity.com

East Orange General Hospital Annual Golf Classic Monday, September 24, 2012 Maplewood Country Club 28 Baker Street Maplewood, NJ 07040 For more Information please contact: Shekera Robinson at (973) 266-2925 robinsonsh@evh.org

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September 2012 The Positive Community

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

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

Lose Some Weight have been helping people get healthy and fit through exercise for close to 20 years; to God be the glory! And what I have learned over those wonderful years is that emotional and spiritual weight loss must occur before or simultaneously alongside the efforts of physical weight loss. I cannot tell you the countless number of individuals I have met and counseled concerning the proper way to lose weight, improve their health through exercise and healthy eating or simply live fit. And the ones who experience radical change —a new perspective on life, reversal of obesity related illnesses, energy and other transformational life changes— are the ones who agree either consciously or subconsciously to lose some emotional and spiritual weight along with the physical. Hebrews 12:1 says, “…let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…” While an elevated cholesterol level is a serious physical weight that hinders us from living life to the fullest, so does the emotional weight of shame. The inability to fully engage in a game of tag with our children or grandchildren is a physical weight that impedes relationship

with our loved ones, as does the emotional weight of anger. The embarrassment of excessive weight gain over a period of time keeps us self-conscious and limits new experiences within our lives as does the emotional weight of fear. But do not worry, there is hope! Simply get fit from within. Access your faith and focus on the Spirit within to help you lose weight physically, emotionally and spiritually. One of the things that we have done at our church, It Is Well Living Church in Monroe Township, New Jersey, is combine physical exercise with our time of spiritual nourishment! We have what we call “The Worship and Workout Bible Study” every week! From the months of April-October, we meet outside at the local park/track and workout physically and spiritually. After we lift up His name in praise spiritually, we lift resistance weight bands to build strength physically. While on your quest to reverse obesity related illnesses through exercise, healthy eating, and regular doctor visits with a good physician, I encourage you to lose some physical weight and get healthy. Please do not forget to pray without ceasing, attend church regularly, and call on the Spirit of God to help you lose some spiritual weight as well. “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own! For you were brought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and your spirit, which are God’s.” (1Corinthians 6:19-20, World English Bible) Here is a tip from my new book coming this fall, Get Fit from Within: “When going for a walk or brisk run listen to the bible on audio or your favorite sermon! Whatever you decide to listen to, allow what you hear to inspire your soul and transform your life!” 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.

58 The Positive Community

September 2012

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Believe that you can be happy, healthy and in control of your life.

AARP and you, continuing the journey. Nurturing the mind, body and soul is the greatest way to achieve the best life for our families. That’s why we proudly support the members and activities of churches and other religious institutions throughout the nation. We share your passion for strengthening both family and community and help celebrate their blessings by living a balanced life. We look forward to continuing to help every generation live life to the fullest. To discover all of the community efforts we support, visit aarp.org/blackcommunity.

DATE: 03/26/2012

LIVE: 7.375” x 10”

CREATIVE DIR:

PC_postHW_2012_Layout19/12/121:35PMPage1

& Share a brief glimps of HARLEM WEEK 2012: “The Best Ever!”

NY City Economic Development Day • August 9 and the Percy E. Sutton Harlem 5k Run for Peace & NYC “Walk For Peace In Our Communities” • August 25 Images from the

Co-sponsored by Postive Community

1. NYC Economic Development Day Business Luncheon dais. 2. Runners line-up for Percy E. Sutton 5K Run for Peace 3. (l-r) Lloyd Williams joins with NYS Senater Bill Perkins, Mary Wittenberg, NY Road Runners, Rev. Jacques DeGraﬀ, Canaan Baptist Church , NYC Councilman Robert Jackson, Marci McCall, Emblem Health, Joey Morant, Jazz Trumpetier, and “Dr.” Bob Lee, WBLS-FM at the Start of the “Walk for Peace in Our Communities” 4. Hundreds of participants “Walking For Peace” 5. (l to r) Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly, “Dr.” Bob Lee, Jackie Rowe-Adams, Harlem Mothers S.A.V.E., Congressman Charles Rangel, and Inspector Rodney Harrison start the “Peace Walk” 6. Distinguished guests at the NYC Economic Development Day International Business Conference: Hon. Herman G. Lamont (Jamaica Consul General), Hon. George Monyemangene (South African Consul General), Hon. Fumio Iwai (Deputy Consul General Japan in NY) 7. The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce President, Lloyd Williams welcomes the guests at the Business Awards Luncheon. 8. Great attendance and diversity at the Economic Development Day International Business Conference For more info visit w w w.HARLEMWEEK.com or call toll-free 1-877-427-5364

The Positive Community September 2012

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Culture L i f e , M u s i c , A r t & L i t e r at u r e

Brother

to Brother

by g.r. mattox

Siblings Play Siblings in Red Bank Brandon Dirden

hen Brandon J. Dirden made a sensational debut at Two River Theater earlier this year, his hotheaded and heartwarming portrayal of “Youngblood” in Jitney, set seamlessly among the other characters, adding exciting animation to the acclaimed August Wilson play. After finishing the run, he appeared on Broadway in Clybourne Park. This month, Dirden returns to the Red Bank, NJ stage for the season launching production of Topdog/Underdog, and this time he’ll be working with someone he knows only too well. Brandon will be performing opposite his younger brother, Jason Dirden, in Topdog/Underdog. The real-life brothers play lovingly competitive siblings Lincoln and Booth— names given to them as a joke by their father. Brandon’s Lincoln and Jason’s Booth live a hand-tomouth existence; each day Lincoln, the older brother who like his namesake, is actually a man of impressive wit and wisdom, puts on a top hat, and fake beard and goes to work in a run-down arcade where tourists come for the www.thepositivecommunity.com

Jason Dirden

chance to shoot Honest Abe. Booth, also mirroring his namesake, is obsessed with the three-card monte hustle. He constantly practices throwing the cards, but because of his jittery demeanor and two left hands, never reaches the skill of his older brother, who gave up that hustle. “I believe Lincoln is a man of large appetites,” Brandon said in describing his character. “He knows sometimes that it’s not the best for him, so he’s in constant struggle to keep himself in check. We see him fighting the fight and it’s quite a journey. “Hopefully what I want to bring to Lincoln is the truth in that; you see him in his ugliness and his beauty and his potential for good and bad and hopefully you’ll understand what drives him to do the things he does. These characters have a lot of love and dignity and compassion although we may not always agree with their choices,” he continued. “So I think it’s really important that we see these characters for who they are because it may give Continued on page 78 September 2012 The Positive Community

NJPAC’s most exciting season ever is about to begin. new jersey performing arts center o n e c e n t e r s t r e e t , n e wa r k , n j

Be a part of it.

for Love of Moody: a Jazz celebration featuring

george Benson The Manhattan Transfer David sanborn and more

Fri, Oct 19 at 8:00 Miles Davis and gil evans: still ahead

Porgy and Bess, Sketches of Spain and Miles Ahead 3 classic LP’s, each performed live by an all-star ensemble! Sat, Oct 20 at 8:00 Christian McBride, Artistic Advisor Sponsored by

Co-presented by

for the full TD Moody Jazz festival schedule visit njpac.org

More upcoMing perforMances

a night in Motown with en vogue, The four Tops, Darlene Love & more sat, oct 6 at 7:00

DruMLine Live!

Mike epps

aretha franklin

Jamaica at 50: Ky-Mani Marley, Third World, and Maxi-priest

george clinton with parliament funkadelic and Morris Day & The Time

fred Hammond

Darlene Love & friends

fri, nov 30 at 7:00

from the creators of the hit film fri, oct 26 at 8:00

sat, Dec 8 at 7:30

I’m Still Standing Tour fri, nov 2 at 7:00

Melding gospel with funk and soul fri, Dec 21 at 8:00

only nJ appearance! sat, nov 10 at 8:00

with cissy Houston sat, Dec 22 at 8:00

For tickets and full 2012-2013 season schedule visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC

PositiveCommunity_7x9.5.indd 1

8/22/12 5:48 PM

AME 1st District Welcomes New Spirit-Filled Leadership By Rev. James E. Booker, Jr. Newly consecrated Bishops Rev. Reginald T. Jackson and Gregory Gerald McKinley Ingram

“D

r. Jessica and I have come to make a difference in the First Episcopal District of our great church—The African Methodist Episcopal Church,” stated the 118th elected and consecrated Bishop of the AME church, Bishop Gregory Gerald McKinley Ingram. He and his wife, Episcopal Supervisor, Dr. Jessica Kendall Ingram, addressed an enthusiastic congregation of more than 1,500 as they greeted the First District at the Annual Christian Education Congress held in Dover, DE. “My appointment to the First Episcopal District is proof positive that God answers prayer,” Bishop Ingram continued. “To have the privilege of presiding in the place where African Methodism began is simultaneously exhilarating, challenging and humbling. But rest assured, God has prepared me to build on the foundation of committed service to the least, the last and the lost that was so aptly laid by our founding Apostle, Bishop Richard Allen and other courageous men and women of faith. “I believe it’s important for you to know that I preside as a bishop the same way I served as a pastor and that is with a shepherd’s heart. At the same time, however, I won’t settle for mediocrity when God requires excellence! God has been too good to me for me to be any other way,” Ingram exclaimed. “He spared my life following a near-fatal car crash in South Africa a few years ago for a reason; to bring me to the Fantastic First District; to handle first things first. As your shepherd, that means that I must, with the able assistance of my wife and your Supervisor, Rev. Jessica, do everything possible to empower you to make a difference in the world.” “Do not call yourselves broke anymore,” admonished the Bishop, “because you serve a God who is in the blessing business. When you are going through a financial challenge, just say that you are in between blessings. The good news is that you are next in line.” He then asked if

The Positive Community September 2012

there was anyone in the congregation who was unemployed and one young lady stood up and raised her hand. Bishop Ingram called her up to the front, blessed her with a $100 bill and said, “Dinner is on me.” Bishop Ingram accomplished much during his 13year pastorate at the Oak Grove AME Church in Detroit, MI; 2,400 became members, more than 1,200 became tithers, and a $2.3 million building project was paid off in only five years. He has been brought this far by faith, education and experience. Bishop Ingram holds a BA from Wilberforce University, an MA in Education from Antioch College, a Masters of Divinity from Garrett Theological Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary. In 2000, the Rt. Rev, Dr. Ingram was elected and consecrated the 118th Bishop of the AME Church. He has served at the 15th Episcopal District in Africa, presided over the 10th ED (the State of Texas) and the First ED, which includes much of the Northeast and the Territory of Bermuda. The First District is excited over the great possibilities that lie ahead as we follow the Spirit-filled and Godly leadership of our new Episcopal Team. In worship, Bishop and Rev. Ingram have demonstrated that they believe in inviting the Spirit of Christ to flow freely during worship and encourage the people of God to praise Him with their whole hearts. They have also promised that all in the district will have a voice and an opportunity to exercise their gifts and talents. He will also encourage and help to train both lay and clergy to practice more effective and productive service, ministering to the needs of the entire human through spiritual, physical and economic empowerment, development and healing. As Bishop Ingram now loves to sing, “Let the First say, ‘Amen.’ Let the First say, ‘Amen.’ God has spoken, so let the First say, ‘Amen.’” www.thepositivecommunity.com

GOGIC Convocation Bishop William T. Cahoon

The Positive Community September 2012

Bishop Norman L. Prescott

Bringing Churches Together for the “Building up of Each Other”

ishop Norman L. Prescott is an unassuming man more than 80 years old. With a ready smile and medium height, his stature and gentle demeanor belie his strengths. A powerful, energetic mental giant, Prescott pastors Trinity Temple COGIC in Montclair, NJ and orchestrates the annual Holy Convocation of the New Jersey 3rd Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). Hundreds of people, both young and old, attended the seven-day event at the historic Wells Cathedral COGIC Tabernacle in Newark, NJ, Elder Hersey L. Taylor, pastor. Bishop Prescott explained that his goal was to bring together local churches within the jurisdiction for fellowship and “the building up of each other.” He sees the convocation as an alternative to the local church revival. Wednesday, August 23, billed as Youth Night, was a highlight of the convocation. Evangelist Joyce Rogers, of Denton, TX, the International Chairwoman of the COGIC Youth Department, spoke on the need to take back our communities and our personal lives by being willing and obedient to the Word of God, becoming active within our families and communities, engaging in unity, giving wisdom and realizing that we’re all in this together. She preached that God has raised up a generation of young people who will take back their integrity, their authority and their lives. “I believe that God is calling us to declare that the blessing of the Lord belongs to us,” said Rogers in the sanctuary that had hardly a sitting soul. Young Ladies of Virtue, the premier dance group of Wells Cathedral, whirled in worship, followed by a poetry presentation of “Let Your Light So Shine,” written and presented by Sister Ebony Hunter. Seventeen-year-old Romel Fairley of Trinity Temple COGIC and a senior at Bloomfield High School, sang “My Help Comes From The Lord.” Backed by the New Jersey 3rd Jurisdictional Choir led by Sybil Finey, Fairley rocked the house. “Where Are You and What Are You Doing?” was the message on Friday night, by COGIC Garden State Jurisdictional Prelate Bishop William T. Cahoon, who reminded the people that “there is a touch of God upon

Photos: Robert Goode

By Quinita E. Good

every man and woman.” “Sometimes, the people of God try to hide from God,” he preached. “They stop praying and attending church. But you can’t hide from God,” he added referring to Psalm 139. “The real test,” said the Bishop, “is when no one is there and no one is watching.” Not surprisingly, the climax of the convocation was Official Sunday, August 26. Minister Tyrone Hulin, of Trinity Temple COGIC, was ordained an elder in the church along with three others. Elder Hulin, who attended a Roman Catholic Church as a youth and aspired to become a priest, will now be able to perform official ceremonies and duties on behalf of God in the COGIC. “For me, Official Sunday was a humbling experience that continues my Christian journey,” said Hulin, adding that he is “…happy to be doing the things God called (him) to do.” “I came because of the gathering of all the saints in the jurisdiction and to be refreshed and re-equipped for kingdom building,” said Sister Anne Streater of Bible Way COGIC in Orange, NJ, She said she got strength and inspiration from the setting. Sister Gwen Jackson of Faith Temple COGIC in Hackensack, NJ, agreed. “I sing in the Jurisdictional Choir and there’s nothing like getting together with all the other churches and hearing the Word of God from different perspectives,” she explained. She enjoyed the fellowship and was encouraged by it, a consensus that everyone there seemed to share. Bishop Prescott’s goal was accomplished, as evidenced by all of the hugging participants, the shouts, the dancing and praising that accented every evening. The COGIC 3rd Jurisdictional Holy Convocation takes place for one week every August at Wells Cathedral in Newark, NJ. For more information about the convocation, please contact Bishop Norman L. Prescott at Trinity Temple COGIC at (973) 746-8796. Quinita E. Good can be reached by email at qwrites@ hotmail.com or you may visit her web site at http://qwrites. weebly.com.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark Repertory Theatre Company Presents

First Corinthian BC Celebrates Theater Photo: Wali Amin Muhammad

This exciting production is a landmark piece in the African-American literary world as it explores concepts of sexism, feminism, spirituality and freedom embedded in the lives & struggles of seven women of color whose lives intersect as they tell their stories.

Crossroads Theatre, New Brunswick September 22nd, 2012 at 8pm For tickets call 1-800-838-3006 or go to forcoloredgirls.brownpapertickets.com Presented by:

Newark Repertory Theatre Company

*Show contains mature language and situations

Crossroads Theatre

ichael A. Walrond, Jr., sr. pastor, First Corintthian Baptit Church, Harlem NY with actress Atonia Badon after she performed a one-woman play about Zora Neal Hurston at the church.

New Brunswick

September 22nd,2012 at 8pm

For tickets call 1-800-838-3006 or go to forcoloredgirls.brownpapertickets.com Presented by:

Newark Repertory Theatre Company

www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

The Positive Community September 2012

www.thepositivecommunity.com

FLO WILEY IN THE SPIRIT & IMAGE

Flo Wiley, a disciple at Memorial Baptist Church, Harlem NY, is a producer, playwright-director, radio host (WHCR-FM), marketing and public relations consultant.

MOUNT VERNON INTERFAITH COMMUNITY CHOIR, Saturday, September 16, 2:00pm Mount Vernon Arts on Third Cultural Festival, Mount Vernon NY, 1:00pm until 7:00pm Maureen Wilson is the founder/director of this 25-member choir that sings the full range of inspirational choral material from spirituals to gospel to contemporary classics that will appear on the main stage of the Mount Vernon Arts on Third Festival. Returning after a four-year absence and under the auspices of Mount Vernon Mayor Ernest D. Davis, it is one of lower Westchester’s largest and most prestigious cultural celebrations. 2012 Festival highlights include a tribute to Heavy D by Doug E Fresh & Friends; Amateur Night at the Apollo hosted by Billy Mitchell; Mike Phillips; the Ebenezer Youth Fellowship Choir; an Artists’ Row of fine art, paintings, photographs and artisans; a Children’s Lane; Sports Alley; food vendors and the Ghana-New York Expo 2012. For a full schedule of Mount Vernon Arts on Third Cultural Festival events, visit their website www.artsonthirdfestival.com or call the hotline (914) 699-6032, ext. 113. Third Street from 4th Avenue to Union Avenue. THE HARLEM CHAMBER PLAYERS Sunday, September 23, 3:00pm St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 521 West 126th Street, NYC, between Broadway & Amsterdam Clarinetist “Harlem’s Own Chamber Music Series” Liz Player opens its fifth season with a concert program of Prokofiev (Overture on Hebrew Themes, Op. 34), Shostakovich (Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op 67), and Schumann (Piano Quintet, Op. 44). Featured artists are Richard Alston (piano), Liz Player (clarinet), Joyce Hammann (violin), Monica Davis (violin), Amadi Azikiwe (viola), Lawrence Zoernig (cello) and host Eric K. Washington, journalist, historian and author. An after-concert party/fundraiser follows at SoHarlem Creative Outlet in the Mink Building at Amsterdam & 126th Street. Concert Tickets are $15 General Admission, $10 Seniors/Students. Visit www.harlemchamberplayers.org for tickets, directions and more about the season’s programs.

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IMPACT REPERTORY THEATRE 15th Anniversary Concert Saturday, October 15, 7:00pm First Corinthian Baptist Church, 1912 7th Avenue at W. 116th Street, NY, NY Rev. Michael Waldron, senior pastor Under the leadership of Voza Rivers, Jamal Joseph and Joyce Joseph, IMPACT Repertory Theatre (pictured) promotes the healthy development of young people ages 12 to 19 by providing a learning environment using creativity and performing arts to teach life skills, prepare them for college and empower them to be caring and active leaders in their communities. IMPACT performed at the 80th Academy Awards™ the Best Original Song nominee, “Raise It Up” from the film August Rush, in which they also performed. Doors open at 6pm. For information and reservations call (212) 926 2550 or visit www.impactreptheatre.org. Tickets are $250, $150, and $50. FALL THEATRE PREVIEW Marcia Pendleton, who many of you know from her website about black theater www.walktallgirlproductions.com, has these shows on her radar for fall 2012: Wild With Happy, starring the unforgettable actor, Colman Domingo, comes to the Reuben Santiago Public Theatre. Check www.pubHudson lictheater.org for details. Triple threat actor, writer and playwright, Ruben Santiago Hudson directs August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson at the Signature Theatre on W. 42nd Street the end of October. Check their website for details: www.signaturetheatre.org If you are interested in having your arts activities mentioned in this column, or if you would like to know how to start an arts ministry at your church, please contact me at spiritandimage@thepositivecommunity.com.

September 2012 The Positive Community

Fire Hose Baptism

Text and Photos By Bob Gore

Harlem’s United House of Prayer for All People presents its Fire Hose Baptism

was, admittedly, quite anxious about the day’s event. In spite of my best intentions, for several consecutive years I missed this phenomenal worship experience, which I first enjoyed in 2004. Each year on the first Sunday in August, Harlem’s United House of Prayer for All People presents its Fire Hose Baptism. August 5, 2012 was an ideal day for this visually stunning celebration. There was even the aroma of water in the air from the occasional drizzle, offering a prelude to the coming Holy shower. Hundreds of worshipers in white gathered on Harlem’s 116th Street. Brownstones lined both sides of the street and in the distance, the picturesque backdrop of the Manhattan skyline completed the picture. The congregation’s brass ensemble, “Sons of Thunder,” whose music reflects the historic shout-band tradition heard in many African American

churches, began to play. Their powerful renditions blend New Orleans Jazz band sounds with the richness of black spirituals. The band performs in major venues around the globe from the White House to the Sydney Opera House, and has influenced many other musicians. According to church members, the legendary trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie was so smitten by what he heard one day, that he followed the sounds coming from the church and listened to the band’s rehearsal. As the baptismal portion of the service approached, the vigilant church staff was on guard urging the mushrooming crowd of tourists and other onlookers to “Please stay on the curb and do not interfere with worship.” As the water showered, the minister read scripture, worshipers raised their arms in praise and the music rose to a mighty crescendo.

The Positive Community September 2012

Skilled hands controlled the powerful fire hose, adjusting the nozzle to cast a broad, fine and gentle flow that blanketed the entire throng. Taking the service from the sanctuary to the street and having the baptismal pool replaced with a fire hose was emotionally uplifting and visually stunning. I was amazed by the creativity of the horn players. From simple hymns they spun an incredible variety of stirring sounds and rhythms— all this by musicians without formal training. Later in the day, several friends I spoke with bristled at the fire hose baptism approach, recalling that Sheriff Bull O’Connor used water sadistically propelled from fire hoses to repel civil rights marchers in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963. I assured them that these waters were healing showers from heaven. www.thepositivecommunity.com

In addition to the celebrations, the church serves classic, affordable soul food including fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato pie and peach cobbler. Locals call the cafeteria “UHOP,” a play on the popular chain “IHOP” and short for “United House of Prayer.” Over the years, I have dined at their restaurant in Buffalo, New York and the church’s headquarters in Washington, DC. The Sunday following the baptism, my nephew and I visited the Harlem church for lunch. As we approached the entrance, I saw a gentleman with a trombone case and speculated he might be a band member. As luck would have it, he and the two others chatting on the corner were pillars in the church’s music program. The three elders —Edward Babb, Andrew “Bubba” Coles and Robert Daniels— were a wealth of firsthand insight into the church. www.thepositivecommunity.com

The band’s founder, Elder Babb, described their sound, "Our music is only about touching the individual person's soul. Not boring church music; this is the true, high-energy soul music. The sound is undeniably visceral and uplifting, designed to lend comfort and healing with enough volume to be heard in the heavens.” In rehearsals the musicians are led through improvised sets, with the leader calling out songs and hymns as they go by, blowing the opening notes on his trombone. The rest join in, vigorously swaying to the music as they build to one ecstatic crescendo after another. Effective? You bet. For me there was a point in the baptismal service when the playing and singing took hold, and transformed me, the observer, into a spirit-filled participant. According to Elder Daniels, the national church has long emphasized economic development and

community service. The Harlem congregation owns several significant properties along 125th street, a fleet of motor coaches and supports a nursing home in Washington, DC. The United House of Prayer was founded by the charismatic Bishop Charles Manual (known as Emmanuel) “Daddy” Grace. He was born in 1883 in the Cape Verde Islands and came to America in 1903. He built his first church in New Bedford, MA in 1919, completely by hand. But it was in 1924 that he established his first major congregation in Charlotte, NC around a style of ecstatic worship including speaking in tongues, fueling his popularity and the rapid expansion of the church. Today, the organization consists of 121 congregations in 26 states. Special thanks to Branden Bouvia for his assistance.

September 2012 The Positive Community

By Glenda Cadogan

T&T Celebrates Half a Century as a Republic

n the thirty-first of August 1962, the small twin-island colony of Trinidad and Tobago became the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago upon gaining its independence from Great Britain. The nationals of these “isles of the Caribbean Sea” celebrated with pride as the Union Jack was lowered and for the first time, their national flag in resilient colors of red, white and black was hoisted. The melody of their new national anthem may have been unfamiliar but the words, “with boundless faith in our destiny,” were already indelibly etched in their hearts and collective consciousness. As the “father” of the new nation, Dr. Eric Eustace Williams addressed the eager population giving the country three watchwords: discipline, tolerance and production.

Upon the 50th Anniversary of Independence, “tolerance,” the second watch word, took center stage among nationals celebrating in New York City. A nation well known for its religious and ethnic diversity, Trinidad and Tobago is home to the dominant religious groups — Christians, Hindus, Muslims and the African syncretic faiths of Spiritual Baptist and Orisha. Last April the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate in New York City launched the anniversary celebrations with an interfaith service and celebration at York College in Queens. In her address to the gathering, Consul General Rudrawatee Nan Ramgoolam announced the formation of the Trinidad and Tobago Interfaith Council of New York, an autonomous body operating under the aegis of the consulate, stating, “Invoking of the universe is a

The Positive Community September 2012

propitious start to any event as momentous as this. We expect that the members of this council will lead the march to self and spiritual empowerment and a renewed civic and social commitment to their United States and homeland communities.” Dr. Glenville Ashby, an academic and literary critic, is the chairman of the council. He conceived the idea along with the Consul General as they explored meaningful ways to celebrate the country’s golden jubilee. “The Council has been charged with creating meaningful interfaith dialogue and cultural exchanges,” said Dr. Ashby. “The aim is to move beyond just ceremonial gestures and work toward bringing about greater understanding, thereby removing fears, mistrust and eradicating stereotypes. Ultimately, the Interfaith Council is about social serwww.thepositivecommunity.com

vices,” he said, adding, “It is a way of solving each other’s problems not as an insular community, but as nationals of Trinidad and Tobago.” According to Dr. Ashby, “interfaith dialogue is about empowerment. It goes beyond scriptural interpretation but is in fact scripture in action.” Since its formation, the council has spearheaded most of the cultural and religious activities undertaken by the consulate. This included celebrations marking the occasions of Spiritual Baptist Shouter Day (March 30), Indian Arrival Day (May 30), Emancipation Day (first Monday in August) and Eid ul-Fitr (August 20). The Council members include: Mother Bishop Donna Faria, Sister Brenda Agurila, Imam Ahmed Ali, Bishop Alan Baxter, Father Antonius Peter Gopaul, Archbishop Andy Edwards, Pundit Sharma Maharaj, Pundit Deeoak Rahman and Archbishop Selwyn Wilkinson. At a reception on Independence Day, Consul General Ramgoolam again referenced the strength, unity and tolerance of the nation. “We have much to be thankful for in Trinidad and Tobago,” she declared. “Though a young nation, we have managed to flourish in a multi-ethnic society. Accepting and embracing our differences is the key to our harmony. Our spirituality is another one of our strengths and it is also an important part of building a strong and sustainable nation. Nothing can diminish the progress we have made in binding ourselves together as a people, albeit of different cultural ancestry and religious persuasions. We have co-existed in harmony and demonstrated to the world that the ideal of unity in diversity is not a mere cliché but can be translated into living action and active living in the furtherance of social and national development.” Trinidad and Tobago moves into another era as an independent republic as its nationals throughout the Diaspora continue to celebrate and embrace the words of their anthem that “every creed and race find an equal place.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

By R.L. Witter

A Triumphant Journey Through Life

hen most people think of “Girls’ Night Out” they think of nightclubs, trendy restaurants or evenings in with a bottle of wine (or several) and a chick flick. For the past year, however, ladies of all ages have been gathering at St. Luke’s Theatre on 46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues to celebrate Sistas: The Musical. Written by Dorothy Marcic and produced by threetime Tony Award-winner Hinton Battle, Sistas takes place over a day of nostalgia, confession, discovery, acceptance and celebration in the attic of a recently-deceased family matriarch. Three sisters, artfully played by Tracey Conyer Lee, April Nixon and Jennifer Fouché, assemble to go through their grandmother’s belongings, unearthing old clothes, old records and some old wounds. Added to the mix are Lexi Rhoades, who plays the teenage daughter of one of the sisters and Amy Goldberg, the white sister-in-law who is oblivious not only of the family history, but also many of the issues and emotions experienced by the sisters. Woven through the show’s storyline of joy, pain, struggle, disappointment and literally almost every emotion one can experience, are the songs of the last 100 years. From Negro spirituals to classics like “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child” all the way up to recent anthems like “I Am Not My Hair” and “Single Ladies,” the ladies of Sistas take you on a musical journey spanning the years. Not only do the songs represent various eras, but the characters’ diversity in ages, perceptions, attitudes and skin tones highlights

The Positive Community September 2012

in Song

traits, strengths and weaknesses we all recognize in ourselves and one another. While the majority of the audience seems to be women, the universal story appeals to men, women and young people of all creeds and colors. Whether laughing or crying, audience members can be heard singing along with the soundtrack of their lives as they watch similar scenes from their lives depicted on stage. With a simple set and some clever costumes, the magic of Sistas truly lies in the familiarity of the characters and the writing, as well as the talent and commitment of the cast. The women effectively convey the gamut of emotions, from moments of pure unadulterated joy that make you clap your hands and sing along, to the sobering moments that tell of discrimination, disappointment and frustration that make you want to wrap your arms around the ladies and offer them comfort. There are also some absolutely hysterical moments that will have you stomping your feet in laughter while you wipe tears from your eyes. With messages of hope, perseverance and inclusion, Sistas offers something for everybody. From Mahalia Jackson to Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson to Jill Scott and Bessie Smith to Beyoncé, sisterhood can be found in every scene, every word and every lyric. Whether it’s a bachelorette party, a birthday, a family outing or date night, from mother to daughter, sister to sister and friend to friend, Sistas is a triumphant testament to the wonders of womanhood, the friendship in family and the universal sweetness of sisterhood. www.thepositivecommunity.com

SAVE OVER 40% TICKETS JUST $ 39 . 50* ! WINNER 2011 Midtown International Theatre Festival

“Sweet and Sassy!” -NY Times

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A joyful musical celebration of life, love and family! St. Luke’s Theatre, 308 W 46th St Saturday @ 4:30 pm & Sunday @ 4:30 pm Broadwayoffers.com 212.947.8844 and use code: SIEMAIL39 SistasTheMusical.com Special rates for groups call 212.977.5925 *Offer subject to availability. Tickets reg. $69.50. Regular service charges apply to phone and internet sales. Other restrictions may apply.

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September 2012 The Positive Community

JAMAICA’S 50th Anniversary of Independence

ight Reverend Howard Gregory, Anglican Bishop of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, delivered the sermon at Jamaica’s annual Service of Thanksgiving on Sunday, July 29, 2012, at the historic Riverside Church in New York City. This service marked Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence. Reverend Robert B. Coleman, Programme Minister/Minister for Mission and Social Justice, was the host. He was joined by other members of the clergy, diplomats, politicians, the Jamaica Independence Choir, cultural and youth groups for the celebration. Consul General of Jamaica, Herman G. LaMont, recently assigned to New York, delivered a message in which he expressed his wish for all Jamaicans to unite: “Jamaicans at home and abroad have a social responsibility to unite hands, hearts, talents, and resources for the betterment of the nation state of Jamaica. At the dawn of Independence, August 6, 1962, Jamaicans were filled with optimism and high ideals as we earned the right to become a sovereign nation. Full economic independence has eluded us thus far, but we remain indomitable and must vow to overcome these challenges. Having

said that, we have made remarkable achievements in other important areas. We stand to gain significantly, by coming together as we strive to continue the advancement of the human race.” The Clifton Boys’ Home in Darliston, Westomoreland, Jamaica, is the recipient of the offering. In August the anniversary celebrations continued, this time in a more secular manner. Jamaicans living in the United States and Americans of Jamaican descent attended celebrations at the toniest of settings. In New York, the Jamaican Independence Celebration Foundation gala at the New York Hilton and Towers was the place to be on August 18. Revelers rubbed shoulders with Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller and danced the night away to the music of reggae band Fab5. In Washington D.C., the Jamaica Nationals Association’s (JNA) 50th Anniversary Independence Gala was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Saturday, August 11. Heather Foster, the director of African American Outreach, White House Office of Public Engagement, delivered congratulations from the President of the United States. In his message, President Obama stated that the

The Positive Community September 2012

fabric of America had been strengthened by the rich and diverse culture of our people who have come to our shores to pursue their dreams, including those who trace their roots to Jamaica. “As artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, public servants and service members, Jamaican Americans have played an important role in shaping the character of our union and driving the progress of our country.” The President added that as we continue to work together to create a more peaceful and prosperous future, he looked forward to building on this strong foundation in the years ahead. In his remarks, former Jamaican Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Richard Bernal said, “On this our 50th year of independence as we reflect on the remarkable achievement of our people and give homage to our founders and our sovereign nation, we should also remember to acknowledge and encourage those who continue to defend our hard won gains, like our teachers, farmers and healthcare professionals. Let us be inspired by the work of our cultural ambassadors, our athletes’ performance at the recent Olympics and the many others who fearlessly and tirelessly represent our country on the international stage.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Chrystal Rucker— You Deserve Grace & Peace, ou’ve heard her name before and her voice too; Chrystal Rucker has sung on everybody’s album from Ronnie Felder and The Voices of Inspiration to Ricky Dillard’s track “Keep Living.” As I listened to Rucker’s powerful You Deserve, I couldn’t help but fall in love with her voice. She has the skillful range of the Clark Sisters (yes all of them) with a hint of Tamela Mann’s conviction and control. I also noticed a sense of gratitude both in the song titles and lyrics of all 11 tracks. And when I spoke with her, her testimony revealed why she is so grateful and doesn’t mind giving God all He deserves. There is a biblical story in Luke 17 where Jesus gave the gift of healing to ten men, and while all ten of them may have been happy that they received the gift, only one of them chose to show their thankfulness to Jesus. Well, Chrystal is that one; the COGIC PK (Church of God in Christ Preacher’s Kid) from Kansas City, MO has a similar testimony. Ms. Rucker is no stranger to ministry and singing came naturally for her. She’s also no stranger to life’s challenges and tragedies as she lost her father at the age of 14. Her mother raised her to never forget the principles of God’s order and plan for her life, so when trials came she knew they would eventually pass, and when opportunities came she knew who deserved the praise. After ministering at different churches and functions at the request of reverends and bishops, Chrystal found herself having more engagements than time. It got to the point where the single mother of one had to choose between a job she loved and a God she served. It wasn’t her talent that was questionable, it was the timing. “I know this gift came from God, he’s wonderful to me but many people move before their time and leave their jobs when they should have stayed, but I did what He told me

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to and here I am today with a national recording,” Rucker explained. “God has been good to me!” In 2007, her faith and all that she sang about was tested when she suffered two strokes within two months. At 35 years-old, she suffered paralysis on the entire left side of her body and in her brain. She found herself unable to do basic, simple things and unable to take care of her only daughter. “When you have someone you have to live for it makes all the difference in the world in your healing process,” Rucker explained. “I knew she needed me so I fought so that I could be here to help her grow up.” Two years of struggle did not allow doubt into the heart of a servant of our Lord. With continued prayer she began to get strength in her legs. Soon after, Rucker received a complete healing at a worship service and now she sings to tell the world that she is indebted, appreciative and committed to God—no matter what! Now, the COGIC princess is taking the world by storm with a CD filled with up-tempo songs like “Come Bless His Name” and “Make Me Wanna” as well as worship songs like “I Live Your Word” and the title track, “You Deserve.” She even sings a couple of authentic hymns and classics like Tramaine Hawkins’ “Changed.” This compilation gives you all that you want and need for your musical library done how only Chrystal Rucker can do it. “God is amazing and He’s my life. I’m enjoying what He’s doing for me and in me right now. All that I’ve been through has brought me to this point and I’m excited,” Rucked explained. “I have many scriptures that I love, but I have to say Romans 8:28 stands out for me: ‘And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.’ And I love Him; I’ve always loved Him; so it will always work out for me.” Congratulations and keep building the kingdom!

September 2012 The Positive Community

L–R: Sherita Cherry, Bronner Bros. master hairstylist; Regina M. Benjamin, M.D., Surgeon General of the United States; Elgin Charles, celebrity hairstylist, known as the "Emperor of Hair" and star of VH1's Beverly Hills Fabulous; winner Linette Battle and her model; Ashley Robinson of the WNBA Washington Mystics; James Bronner of Bronner Bros.; and Reed Tuckson, chief medical officer of UnitedHealth Group (Photo: UnitedHealthcare).

Hair Fitness Professionals Create Easy to Maintain Styles

o you limit your exercise because you want to limit your trips to the beauty salon. Well, inspired by studies that showed many African American women avoid certain fitness activities in order to maintain their hairstyles, as well as the alarming rates of obesity, UnitedHealthcare, a company that understands the need for women have a solid fitness routine in order to get or stay healthy, teamed up with the Bronner Bros. and their International Hair Show to encourage hair stylists to come up with easy to maintain hairdos for their “Hair Fitness” competition. The winner was announced at the annual trade show, which draws 60,000 hair stylists from across the nation to Atlanta, GA. The goal is for hairdressers to empower their clients to make exercise a part of their daily routine. The winners of this year’s competition is Linette Bat-

SIBLINGS

Continued from page 61 you a different idea the next time someone walks up on a young brother dressed like Trayvon Martin and makes the mistake of thinking his life is worthless.” Topdog/Underdog is one of the most powerful dramas of our time, highly praised for its taut theatricality and surprising humor. In 2002, the play was honored with the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and author Suzan-Lori Parks made history as the first African American woman to receive the award. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of her achievement, she will, for the first time, act as director for the Two River production. Looking forward to this particular staging, she is excited about the brothers playing together, “Brandon and Jason are such talented actors,” she said. “To be directing real-life brothers in a play about brothers—it’s a total treat.” Brandon knows the play well. He played Booth with the Playmakers Repertory Company, Chapel Hill, NC in 2008. That same year he played with his wife, Crystal Anne Dickinson, and Jason in the Signature Theater Company production of The First Breeze of Summer, which starred Leslie Uggams. The year before, the two brothers played opposite each other for the first time professionally in Ceremonies in Dark Old Men starring Glynn Turman at True Colors Theater in Atlanta, where both

The Positive Community September 2012

tle of Palm Beach, FL, who won first place and received the grand-prize of $5,000 and a trophy for outstanding design and execution. Runners-up were Camilla Brown, who won the second-place prize of $2,000; and Elisha Heard, who received a $500 prize. Tiffany Thames and Keysha Quinn rounded out the top-five finishers. Also appearing at the event were Regina M. Benjamin, M.D., M.B.A., Surgeon General of the United States; celebrity hair stylist Elgin Charles, known as the “Emperor of Hair” and star of VH1’s Beverly Hills Fabulous; and Reed Tuckson, M.D., former Washington, D.C. Public Health Commissioner and executive vice president and chief of medical affairs at UnitedHealth Group. WNBA Washington Mystics player Ashley Robinson also spoke at the event. brothers attended Morehouse College. Playing opposite his brother again is familiar, yet exciting. “Oh, it’s never business as usual with Jason,” Brandon laughed. “He’s remarkable and although he’s my little brother I look up to him as an actor. Because of our shared history we know what buttons to push to get a rise out of each other, so there’s a healthy level of competition for each of us to do our best because I don’t want him to show me up and he doesn’t want me to show him up.” The Dirden boys come from an artistic and entertaining family. Their father did a lot of acting in their hometown of Houston, Texas and their sister teaches dance in their home state. Both brothers give props to older brother James, who they say is definitely the most entertaining and should have gone into show business. Brandon has high hopes for this production and knows it will be the start of yet another great season for Two River. “It’s a tall order we have to fill but I have absolutely no doubt that it is going to be something spectacular!” Performances for Topdog/Underdog take place from Saturday, September 8 through Sunday, September 30 at Two River Rechnitz Theater, 21 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, NJ. Discounts are available for groups, seniors, students and patrons aged 30 and under. For more information, call 732.345.1400 or www.trtc.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Because work matters to God FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q A Q A

What is “God In Our Workplace”? God In Our Workplace is the first of its kind of conference that is designed for "all" individuals who are looking to find their God given purpose in today's marketplace. How is this accomplished? By aligning believers and those who wish to learn more with nationally acclaimed Christian Speakers and Presenters; and to offer the opportunity to participate in onsite career assessments, meet with career coaches and interview with employers who are seeking those who share unique faith-based styles, strengths and goals.

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Q A

With other organizations holding events, why should people attend yours? We enthusiastically support the vision of God in our workplace with many who strive to build success in God’s vineyard.

2012 God In Our Workplace Conference

Only through our combined dedication, commitment, and excellence are we able to share these essential employment tools with those seeking to achieve their purpose in today’s marketplace.

www.Godinourworkplace.com

September 2012 The Positive Community

Possible College Credit!

Join Us for the Second International Conference on

The Bible and Its African Roots November 4 - 9, 2013 • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia • $2,498 • Visit Ethiopia, the country where Biblical stories originated. • The role of the African people has been hidden and ignored for hundreds of years. Open new doors of knowledge, and research scholarship.

• Learn new insights into the role of Hametic people of the Bible and their special contributions.

• Each Conference participant will have a high impact appreciation of the book of Enoch which incorporates what many believe to be the moving of the Ark of the Covenant to Ethiopia.

• Leave Ethiopia with an enhanced knowledge of the Old and

New Testament scriptures which relate to the Hametic people of the Bible.

Extensions to Egypt or Ethiopia’s Religious Route For More Information: Call: 800-486-8359 • Email: journeys@groupist.com • Visit: journeys-unlimited.com/BARC Book early. Space is limited.

The Positive Community September 2012

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Vote Your Values e who worship God through Jesus Christ should always operate from a Christian perspective. So as we vote in elections this fall, let’s vote Christian. To me, that means voting for politicians who, based on their actions and utterances, appear more likely to operate more consistently with Christian principles. If making voting decisions this way necessitates our studying the Bible as well as the news, let’s do it. During President Barack Obama’s early White House years, much of what he did and said conformed to Jesus Christ’s stated values. For example, in his 2009 speech in Cairo, Egypt, he advocated peace between the United States and the Muslim world, between the U.S. and Iran and between Israelis and Palestinians. Christ, in the Sermon on the Mount, said, “Blessed are the peacemakers…” (Matthew 5:9). Domestically, Obama got Congress to pass the Affordable Care Act, which will likely make healthcare more affordable to poor people. Jesus regularly healed the sick and repeatedly expressed compassion for the poor and downtrodden (e.g. Matthew 25:31-40, Mark 10:17-21, Luke 6:20). Obama’s second two presidential years have been shakier. Take America’s spring 2011 military support of Libyan rebels. The Obama administration’s stated justification was to prevent mass killings by the Gaddafi regime. So, why didn’t Obama militarily intervene in the Ivory Coast, the Eastern Congo, or Syria? I think it’s no coincidence that Libya has more oil reserves than any other African country. Oil capitalist interests have frequently influenced American foreign policy. “But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort…” (Luke 6:24). Tuareg soldiers who had formerly supported Gaddafi fled Libya after the U.S. and its allies accelerated rebel-control, and conquered northern Mali, precipitating a pattern of shifting armed coercion in Mali that, at this writing, continues. Mali had previously been a stable country. So much for peacemaking. Regarding Obama’s 2012 support of gay marriage, although this mirrors shifting public opinion in America, let’s obey God, not the world: “You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination.” (Leviticus 18:22). Across the electoral fence, Mitt Romney has focused on America’s ongoing economic recession. He seldom mentions, however, that the recession began under Republican

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President George Bush. Nor does Romney analyze, as I do, that the downturn has been more prolonged than typical recessions because of a structural change in the American economy after the Bush administration conquered Iraq and gained control of Iraq’s seat on OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries). This enabled major oil companies, whose fingers extend vertically from the well to the pump, to dramatically raise oil prices in America. Petroleum products are embedded so broadly throughout the American economy that the economy is still reeling from the shock. Here too, we see lasting repercussions of prioritizing the interests of the rich over those of the poor. Candidate Romney says his success in business gives him the knowledge to end America’s recession. Is Romney, who reportedly devotes many hours each week to church work, practicing idolatry here, worshiping capitalism alongside God? It’s a common malady in America. The budget scripted earlier this year by Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan effectively called for cuts in Medicare and tax breaks for the wealthy. I do not trust that the wealthy will automatically invest their salvaged income into helping the poor, including senior citizens and disabled persons on small fixed incomes. Carnal human self-centeredness works the opposite way, leading business owners to more typically reduce employment and other costs when they can. Politicians are also typically secular operatives. If we perceive any congruence with Christian values in their actions, we should thank God. In the United States, where political power rests on getting elected, politicians’ views can be as fickle as public opinion and geography. Thus, Romney, who years ago implemented affordable healthcare in Massachusetts, today derogates the similar system enacted for America as a whole, calling it “Obamacare.” As Massachusetts governor, he supported gun control and green development; less so now, as a Republican presidential nominee needing the votes of ideological conservatives in order to win. It is easy for a writer like me to pick at the inconsistencies of politicians. I suspect it is similarly easy for Christian politicians to convince themselves, case by case, that each action they take is God’s will. But the Apostle Paul wrote, “… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).

September 2012 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

www.thepositivecommunity.com September 2012

Vol. 12, No. 8

BY R.L. WITTER

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

veryone at The Positive Community was moved by this month’s cover photo. President Obama’s face seemed to say that he was bestowing knowledge upon and conveying great expectations to young Evan McCrae of Brooklyn. Evan’s fixed gaze and the beginnings of a smile on his lips intimated that he was listening to every word and would do his best to live up to those expectations. It is heartwarming and inspirational. It reminded me of the conversation I had in August with my cousin, Ericka’s children, Kaia (7) and Avery (5). Ericka and her husband had applied to take a tour of The White House and due to a last-minute cancellation, rushed down to D.C. for a chance to see and share with their children the Obama White House and several other Washington landmarks. I saw the children the day after their visit and their excitement was still palpable. Kaia threw her arms around me and exclaimed, “Auntie, Auntie! I went to THE WHITE HOUSE yesterday!!” Avery, who is usually much more reserved, practically pushed his sister aside to get to me and tell me about how he had seen “where President Obama lives.” They told me about the various rooms they had seen and how they had hoped to meet Sasha and Malia, but “they weren’t there that day.” There was not a hint of disappointment in their faces or voices; just being at The White House had been enough for them. I was struck by the fact that two young black children were so excited about visiting the stuffy old White House. I visited Washington, DC as a child and now that I am old enough that Mom can’t wear my behind out anymore, I fully admit that I was bored and probably laid out on the

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Church/Community Affairs Coordinator Faith Jackson Contributing Writers Sonja Gracy Dr. Phillip Bonaparte Linda Armstrong Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Rosemary Sinclair Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Herb Boyd Glenda Cadogan Toni Parker Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood William Parrish Jeanne Parnell Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Donovan Gopie Linda Pace Hubert Williams Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: news@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © 2010 The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM, its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

82 The Positive Community

The Last Word

September 2012

floor or at least pouted a time or two on that trip. I then realized the impact that having a First Family that looked like them had on two little brown children. Kaia was already planning what she would say upon returning to school when asked about how she had spent her summer; she was only undecided as to whether she should lead with her visit to The White House or save it until the end of her presentation. Avery flexed his muscles as he told me that they had walked all the way across the mall to the MLK monument and smiled when he told me he had seen our cousin, Destiny, a freshman at their mother’s alma mater, Howard University. Kaia was already scoping out dorms. A few weeks later, Kaia and Avery raced to show me their new school bags, a multi-colored messenger bag for her and a Star Wars backpack for him. They were excited about getting school supplies to put in them, but more thrilled by the simple idea of going back to school and having the opportunity to learn. I am incredibly proud of their parents, Ericka and Christian, for instilling a love of learning and the importance of education in these children. I am also thankful to the Obamas for being such wonderful role models—educated, articulate, civic minded and family oriented— and indebted to the American people for putting them in The White House to be role models for millions of children, like Kaia, Avery and Evan McCrae. I look back at that cover photo and smile at the possibilities of what exchange Evan and the President might have had. Only Evan and the President know what was actually said; and I am perfectly okay with that. www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Positive Community’s

Great Countdown to Freedom The Grand Jubilee

n January 1, 2013, America will observe the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation—the sesquicentennial commemoration. From the date January 1, 1863 to the present we, as a group are blessed with an enormous opportunity to measure, assess and define our American journey, our claim on the American Dream.

Below is a cultural narrative—our story—an oral history, a brief presentation of our deep collective experience that dates back

to before this nation’s founding: The Cultural Narrative African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa as slaves in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years). On January 1st 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law, signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born.

You maY not be in it foR

One hundred years later, in August, 1963, at the height of the civil rights movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial as he led hundreds of thousands to a “March on Washington” seeking an end to discrimination

the moneY

and Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full citizenship rights for the people in what has been called “The Second Emancipation.”

Forty years after Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elected its first black president, Barack Obama (2008). In one hundred years between the first and “second emancipation,” in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching and the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, invention, sports and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature and theater. Indeed, original

American art forms and a popular culture which has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! And that is our story-the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race revealed!

(but Lord knows you’re going to needit.)

An Extraordinary History

Ours is an extraodinary history of trial, tribulation and triumph that we must never forget! This is the story that we must tell our children and be ever remembered. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation, must tell our story to each other reminding ourselves, over and over again of the great, noble struggle and sacrifices of those who came before us. This is our story, our cultural narrative, our Grand Jubilee and springboard into a great and prosperous future—a vision of hope and progress; health and of wholeness; and goodwill! Just because you’ve chosen the path God insteadpeace of the money trail doesn’t mean you should forsake your

financial future. That’s where we come in. We’January re MMBB. For over yearsanniversary we’ve been offering investment, retirement and insurance benefits just for those 1, 2013 the100 150th of the Emancipation Proclaimatiom—The Grand Jubilee! who serveTothebecome church, both ordained and lay. a Community Partner or Sponsor: Call Today 973-233-9200. To learn more about us and our financial products, visit www.mmbb.org or call 1-800-986-6222. Isn’t it time your money started working as hard as you?

Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling.