Summer Issue 2010

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

Summer 2010

Harlem Summer Issue

Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith: Mother Zion AME

www.thepositivecommunity.com $2.95

Special Section: 125th Street BID

CHARLIE RANGEL: THE LION OF LENOX AVENUE HARLEM WEEK Remembers Percy Sutton

HAITI: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH CLAUDINETTE JEAN

President William L. Pollard, and the students, faculty, and staff of

ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR

Anniversary

September 2010-September 2011

1650 Bedford Avenue | Brooklyn, NY 11225 | Tel: 718-270-6024 | www.mec.cuny.edu

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Summer 2010

CONTENTS 52 COVER STORY Claudinette Jean Works Hard for Haiti COVER PHOTO BY R.L. WITTER Claudinette Jean holds up the Yele Haiti sign, which means STOP THE VIOLENCE with one hand, PEACE with the other.

Sections Education FNCMM Mentors and Molds Future Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Medgar Evers College Celebrates 39th Commencement . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Schomburg Center Summer Institute . . . . . . . . . . 24 Money CJCDC Helps Save Homes from Foreclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 East River Plaza Mall Grand Opening . . . . . . . . . . 37 Cultivating an Abundant Community. . . . . . . . . . . 38 Culture Jazzmobile: Still Swinging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 HARLEM WEEK Kicks Off at Gracie Mansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Gospel Music Triumphs in Newark . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Reception Marks End of Landmark Exhibit at Montclair Art Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Health Congressional Black Caucus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Cavalry Bestows DAISY Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Features Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith: Mother Zion AME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Charles Rangel: The Lion of Lenox Avenue. . . . . . . . . . 32 Op-Ed: Digging a Hole in the Soul by Russell Simmons. . . . . . . 84

&also inside In Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bold Moves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Ask Dr. Palmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 The Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 The Last Word. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

To learn more, visit us at www.cvscaremark.com

You can tell a lot about a company by the actions of its people. At CVS Caremark, we hear a lot about our people—how they serve their communities, bring neighborhoods together and strengthen families around them. That’s pretty encouraging stuff. And it inspires us to support their efforts all across the country.

Yes, you could say we’re proud of our people because when all is said and done, they are our greatest assets.

Inspiration Please look for us at the upcoming 2010 Harlem Week Events

serve their communities

encouraging

together

bring neighborhoods

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INTHE

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GREAT

T

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@thepositivecommunitycom

Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY

First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ

New Jerusalem B.C., Queens, NY

Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor

H. Grady James III, Pastor

Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Pastor

Archdiocese of New York

Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY

New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ

Brother Tyrone Davis, Exec. Director

Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor

Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor

125th St. BID

Berean B. C., Brooklyn, NY

General Baptist Convention, NJ

Newark Dist. of AME Church, Newark, NJ

African American Heritage Parade

Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor

Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President

Howard Grant, Presiding Elder

Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY

Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ

Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Pastor

Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor

Rev. Jethro James, Pastor

Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ.

Greater Allen Cathedral, Queens, NY

Paterson’s Pastor’s Workshop, Paterson, NJ

American Heart Association, Northern, NJ

Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor

Revs. Floyd and Elaine Flake, Co-Pastors

Rev. Dr. James Kuykendall, President

Birdel’s Tapes & Audio, Brooklyn

Beulah B.C., Newark, NJ

Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ

Carver Federal Savings Bank

Rev. Gerald L. Dickson, Pastor

Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor

Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor

City National Bank

Black Ministers Council of NJ

Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY

St Luke B. C., Paterson, NJ

Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director

Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor

Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor

Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI)

St. Albans, NY COGIC

Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem, NY Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Empire Missionary B.C. Convention NY Rev. Washington Lundy, President Fellowship Missionary B, C., Newark, NJ Rev. E.T. Byrd, 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

Lucille McEwen, President & CEO Manhattan District AME Churches, NY Rev. Harold Rutherford, Presiding Elder Masjid Imam Ali K. Muslim, Newark, NJ Imam Akbar Muhammad Metropolitan B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Evening Star B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Washington Lundy, Pastor Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Harlem Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Pastor Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Peekskill, NY Rev. Adolphus Lacey, Pastor Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Ray Youngblood, Pastor Nazarene Congregational Church Brooklyn, NY

Rev. Ben Monroe St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. William L. Watley, Pastor

Businesses & Organizations

African American Muslims for Interfaith Relationships (AAMIR) American Diabetes Association

Essex County College, NJ Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Inner City Broadcasting Medgar Evers College Mildred Crump, Newark City Council NAACP New Jersey* NAACP, NY State Conference*

St. John AME Church, Harlem, NY

New Brunswick Theological Seminary

Rev. James E. Booker Jr., Pastor

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ

New York Theological Seminary

Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Pastor

New York Urban League

St. Paul Community B. C., Brooklyn, NY

Newark School of Theology

Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor

Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ

The Cathedral Int’l., Perth Amboy, NJ

Schomburg Center

Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor

The Bozeman Law Firm

The New Hope B. C., Newark, NJ

The College of New Rochelle

Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor

The United Way of Essex and West Hudson

Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY

University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ

Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor

WBGO-88.3FM

United Black Clergy of Westchester, Inc.

WKMB-1070AM

Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

Rev, Conrad B. Tillard, Pastor

“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 May 20,Community 2010 www.thepositivecommunity.com Summer 2010Revival, The Positive 7

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ANTOINETTE ELLIS WILLIAMS Ph.D. IN PERSPECTIVE

Antoinette Ellis Williams, Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Women’s & Gender Studies at New Jersey City University and Assistant Minister in Newark.

Deadly Salvation lmost half the world—over three billion people— live on less than $2.50 a day; 1.6 billion people—a quarter of humanity—live without electricity.

According to UNICEF, 24,000 children die each day due to poverty. According to Justin Yifu Lin’s 2008 article, “The Impact of the Financial Crisis on Developing Countries,” “The 1.4 billion people who live in or on the verge of extreme poverty are all in the developing world . . .”

The worldwide recession and increasing natural disasters have pulled the covers off the ugly underbelly of global poverty; guns for food trade, dirt cakes for babies, sex trafficking with little girls and a thriving drug industry.

The desperate human condition of poverty, coupled with the other human trait of greed created an opportunity for “Social Saviors” (aka Robin Hoods) working for prosperity, on behalf of the poor.

Social Saviors are often viewed as criminals and gangsters, but have the ability to fill gaps and provide a deadly salvation for those most in need of justice. Deadly salvation is defined as allegedly supporting the vulnerable with basic needs (e.g. access to food, shelter, clothing and protection). The price for such salvation is rather costly, requiring those in need to turn a blind eye to the brutality associated with crime and exploitation. Moreover, the recipients of this salvation must remain eternally loyal and silent—never bite the hand that feeds us.

The notorious Jamaican businessman and alleged drug lord Christopher “Dudus” Coke serves as an example of how seductive and pervasive “deadly salvation” is in poor communities like Tivoli Gardens, West Kingston. Mara

A

Social Saviors are often viewed as criminals and gangsters, but have the ability to fill gaps and provide a deadly salvation for those most in need of justice.

Alleged drug lord Christopher “Dudus” Coke

Gay, contributing writer for AOL News, reported on May 24 in her article “Is Jamaica’s most wanted man Robin Hood?” that protesters rallied to support Dudus.

Demonstrators chanted and held up signs. “After God, then Dudus,” one resident’s sign read, according to the Jamaica Gleaner. “Jesus died for us, so we will die for Dudus,” another one declared.

Hundreds in the Tivoli Gardens neighborhood shouted at the police to leave Coke alone, and a woman said he had helped neighborhood children receive an education.

“Leave Dudus alone. Him send our children to school; him no break no law, a lie dem a tell pon him,” the woman said, according to The Jamaica Observer. What would compel hundreds of women dressed in white to take to the streets to protect their hero, their landlord, their employer, their lover, their father, their brother, their son and yes, their savior Dudus from police bullets and U.S. extradition order? Women were willing to give their lives for the most wanted man in Jamaica because he provided education for their children, and so many other social services.

Many Jamaicans do not want to talk “negative” about a rather “small” problem. Pride and fear prevent an honest conversation about the scope of the class divide between the haves and the have-nots; remaining cloistered and safe in ignorance protects our collective mythology.

Our own faith traditions have on occasion exercised an equally deadly cost for salvation. Our mega church million-dollar edifices require pledges for blessings, our continuedd on page 47

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

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REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

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

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

Life Can Be Beautiful Black Task Force at Gilda’s Club NNJ aids families touched by cancer nd they thought the event might not fly. Not so.

I’m referring to The Black Task Force of Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey, which recently sponsored “100 Churches for Gilda’s,” a fundraising effort that culminated with the group’s first annual Gospelfest.

“What a time, what a time, what a time!,” as the seasoned saints used to say. Gilda’s Club was named in tribute to the late Saturday Night Live star, Gilda Radner, who at 42, died too soon from ovarian cancer.

According to Alexis Johnson, co-chair of the Black Task Force, the event was designed to shed greater light on cancer, which has often been referred to as, “the big C” and “the C word,” or whispered among those who seemingly were afraid to even verbalize the word. That’s my take on this insidious disease, not Mrs. Johnson’s.

The Task Force’s mission is to provide information to the African-American community and the community-atlarge about the free resources and programs available at Gilda’s Club of NNJ. They provide activities and events throughout the year that enhance the partnership between Gilda’s Club NNJ and the black community.

There is, according to a published brochure, an educational component for individuals and their families who are touched by cancer. The group serves to increase awareness, promote early detection, and provide social and emotional support. Gilda’s Club also offers classes such as yoga, tai chi and painting to assist members in lifting their spirits while occupying their minds and their time outside of illness and treatments.

Mrs. Johnson, by her own admission, is a cancer survivor, as is Mrs. Joanne English Rollieson, who also serves as the group’s co-chair. In fact, a number of women within the group are cancer survivors. “Cancer does not have to be a death notice,” Mrs. English Rollieson said that night. Other members include, Shirley Short-Hall, secretary; Meta Barrow, events coordinator; Lauretta Gouraige, Carol Sullivan, Arnita Brown and Constance Cherry.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

The objective, I believe, is to have people of color be able to face what was once known as a sure killer and understand that with modern medicine, earlier detection and both community and spiritual support, life can yet be beautiful.

But I digress. Rev. Gregory Jackson, pastor of the Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, graciously opened the doors of the church’s Logan Center that night to the group, gratis. In fact, Rev. Jackson offered the center to the group going forward without cost any time they want to use it. Bravo, Rev. Jackson.

It was a full house, filled with soloists, choirs, and praise singers. Well-known singers on the local and regional gospel circuit included Mt. Olive choir director, Elder Terrence Kitchings, who was there with the church’s choir.

The Community Seventh Day Adventist Church of Englewood sang under the tutelage of director Dwight Anderson; Joan Roach was a melodious soloist; Grace Chapel Choir of Paterson participated; Solid Rock Baptist Church Choir, Highway Holiness Church Ministries, the fabulous Mietta Stancil-Farrar, et al.

The bottom line is that this group of women has been extremely transparent in their painful journey regarding cancer. The objective, I believe, is to have people of color be able to face what was once known as a sure killer and understand that with modern medicine, earlier detection and both community and spiritual support, life can yet be beautiful.

For more information visit www.gildasclubnnj.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Trusting in an Unchanging God in a Changing Time

BY GLENDA CADOGAN nown as the “Freedom Church,” The Mother AME Zion Church is the first black church and oldest black institution in New York State. Situated in the heart of Harlem USA, it is an international symbol of freedom. With its pivotal role as one of the safe stops for slaves traveling along the Underground Railroad and with former members the likes of Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Dr. W.E.B. DuBois and Paul Robeson, “The Freedom Church” has earned its name and its stripes. It was at the altar of Mother AME Zion in 1843 that Isabella Baumfree changed her name to “Sojourner Truth.” And it was at Mother AME Zion that she was reunited with her sisters, from whom as a slaves she had

K

Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith

had been separated..

Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith is senior pastor at the Mother AME Zion Church. He is celebrated and accomplished in so many diverse ways that he can be called a legend in his own time, yet, he is reluctant to talk about his legacy. “I don’t believe in legacy development because only what you do for God will last,” he tells The Positive Community. “If you do things for a legacy then you are not doing it for God but for yourself,” he adds.

“All I want people to remember is that I was God’s person in God’s time.”

As pastor of the historic church, and a 33rd Degree Mason and Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, Dr. Smith is himself cemented in history as a man

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

of God who has embraced the salvation of the whole person as his ministry. Having in fact, grown up in the church which his grandfather—Benjamin C. Robeson (the brother of the late legendary, singer, actor activist Paul Robeson) pastored for 27 years, Dr. Smith was no stranger to the congregation when he took over the pulpit in 2006. However, his journey to the pulpit is marked by years of “trying” to run the other way. “As a preacher’s kid, people were constantly pushing me in that direction,” he recalled. “But the more they pushed, the more I looked the other way.”

While he was looking the other way Dr. Smith managed to graduate with honors from Livingstone College and earn two masters and two doctoral degrees. He has an MBA in Marketing and Finance, a Master of Divinity degree, a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration and Finance; and a Doctorate in Ministries.

After about 15 years of running and building an impressive record of service in the corporate world, Dr. Smith reached the end of the road. “It got to the point where I just had to stop,” he explained, adding, “God stopped me dead in my tracks and I could run no more.”

From all accounts, “The Freedom Church” is a vibrant church. But even with all of its superlatives, Dr. Smith focuses on ways to keep the congregation ‘fired up and ready to go.’ “I don’t think that any traditional church is what it was 40 or 50 years ago. We are forced to deal with social issues of the inner city that were not present in times past. People have left the village,” he stressed. “My generation grew up in the village at a time when the elders took care of us. But now the village has disappeared and Generation X has no elders to look over them.

There is no funding for youth programs and after school activities that are religious based.”

With these modern day problems in sight, Dr. Smith has developed cross-generational programs where mature members can work with the younger ones.

“Young people today think that what they have is instantaneous,” stated Dr. Smith. “They do not realize that they continued on page NA

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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TRUSTING IN AN UNCHANGING GOD continued from page NA

View of sanctuary and organ at Mother AME Zion Church

stand on the shoulders of others who made those things possible. So, even as we celebrate the past, we must chart the future. Therefore, my challenge is to see to it that young people realize from whence they came.”

As such, Dr. Smith has created a thematic sermon for the year 2010. He calls it—Trusting in an unchanging God in a changing time. “My aim is to get people to understand that God does not change. To me, the mere fact that this is a day that I have not seen before and I live in an uncertain world, is enough for me to know that God is good.”

Founded in 1796, on John Street in Lower Manhattan the A.M.E. Zion Church has developed across the world and is now located on five continents with 10,000 churches and more than a million members. The Church main-

tains four colleges and universities—Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C., Clinton Junior College in Rock Hill, S.C., Lomax-Hannon Junior College in Greenville, Alabama, and A.M.E. Zion University in Monrovia, Liberia. In addition there are two theological seminaries—Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury, NC and Hood Speaks Theological Seminary in Nigeria. Mother A.M.E. Zion Church relocated to Harlem in 1914 and in 1925 moved into its present grand Neo-Gothic building, which was designed by George W. Foster, Jr., one of the first black architects to be registered in the U.S. Using the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as part of his driving force, one of Dr. Smith’s favorite expressions is ”I have an inescapable urge to serve society, and a sense of responsibility, which I could not escape.” He embraces the mission to continue spreading the freedom gospel throughout the world. “I am happy that God allowed me to do his work,” he declares. “I have done everything you could think in the life of the church; I have held senior level positions in the private sector. I have worked for two Presidents of the United States and have met some of the great charismatic leaders of the continent. Moreover, I have a great healthy family. What more could I ask for?” says he. We say, “nothing more … but to be blessed by God’s proclamation of: ‘Well done my good and faithful servant.’”

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Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Education Teaching, Learning, Making a Difference

$100,000 for National Cares Mentoring Movement Anheuser-Busch and Susan Taylor Mold Future Leaders

L–R: Thomas Dortch w. Dortch Chairman National CARES Mentoring Movement (MCMM); Susan L. Taylor,NCMM CEO and founder and Johnny Furr Jr., vice president, Community Affairs and Consumer Outreach for Anheuser-Busch.

Y

oung Americans are being inspired to dream, encouraged to reach their goals and given the tools to succeed through personal attention from caring mentors. Scenarios of young people connecting with everyday adults who engage in extraordinary acts of support happen every day because of the efforts of the National CARES Mentoring Movement (NCMM). To sustain these worthwhile exchanges between caring adults and tomorrow’s leaders, the Anheuser-Busch Foundation, recently delivered a $100,000 donation to NCMM. Originally introduced as the ESSENCE Cares® initiative in 2006, the NCMM is led by Susan L. Taylor, editor emeritus of ESSENCE magazine. Thomas W. Dortch is the NCMM chairman and chairman emeritus, 100 Black Men of America. NCMM encourages able adults to mentor vulnerable children that fill the waiting lists of organizations in communities throughout the nation.

NCMM partners with some of the nation’s most trusted of these, such as the National Urban League, 100 Black Men of America, The Links, Incorporated and the Y.W.C.A. The movement’s mission is to create the largest mentoring campaign in the history of the nation and increase high school graduation rates.

As a founding supporter, Anheuser-Busch donated

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

$250,000 in 2008 to help mobilize local CARES Circles in cities across the nation. The company has supported NCMM since its inception, providing $500,000 in support to date “When Susan Taylor first announced the mentoring initiative, Anheuser-Busch immediately recognized the potentially life-changing impact it could have in shaping future leaders and transforming local communities,” said Johnny Furr Jr., vice president, Community Affairs and Consumer Outreach for Anheuser-Busch.

The nationwide recruitment effort aims to connect more than 1 million caring adults with children who live in at-risk communities.

“Through the support of companies like AnheuserBusch and the commitment of individuals around the country, we will end this state of emergency in Black America,” said Taylor.

“We are seeking caring adults to wrap their arms around vulnerable young people and share their knowledge, time and resources to improve our kids’ graduation rates and stem the pipeline to prison of AfricanAmericans, particularly black males,” said Dortch.

The NCMM will hold its third annual conference, October 28-31, in Atlanta. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Medgar Evers College 39th Commencement

2010 Medgar Evers Valedictorian Sophia Smart

2010 Graduates

President Pollard with 2010 Grad

“T

MEC Grads 210 with Provost Howard C. Johnson

oday, you grasp a diploma, tomorrow, and for many tomorrows to come, you firmly grasp that brass ring,” said Medgar Evers College President Dr. William L. Pollard to the Class of 2010 at the institution’s 39th Commencement exercises on Saturday, June 5, 2010.

The Class of 2010 commencement theme, “Create and Achieve Success, Reach for the Stars,” was certainly embodied by the graduating class which included 308 degree candidates—nearly 30 percent of the 1,067 member class—graduating with honors. Notable grads include the National Grid Charles Evan Inniss Scholarship awardee, Mr. Antoine Faye, who is pursuing his Masters in International Affairs at the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University as well as two Dr. Betty Shabazz Scholarship awardees: Psychology major Ms. Faun Rockliffe, who has been admitted to the Ph.D. program at Howard University, and Mr. Denver Jean Baptist, who will be studying molecular biology in the Ph.D. program at Princeton University.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

The class valedictorian, who graduated with a 3.92 GPA, introduced herself to those assembled saying: “I am Sophia Smart. Yes, smart by name and by nature.”

She then went on to give a heartfelt address to her peers that included five “Fs,” a letter she jokingly acknowledged was the bane of every student’s existence, to live by. The “Fs” stood for faith for “the tough times,” find[ing] a cause, find[ing] yourself, find[ing] meaning, and even failure—which she noted was an essential opportunity to learn.

Medgar Evers College was founded in 1970 through the efforts from educators and community leaders in central Brooklyn. The College is named after Medgar Wiley Evers, a Mississippi-born black civil rights activist who was assassinated on June 12, 1963.

On the eve of the College’s 40th Anniversary, the Thirty-Ninth Commencement was a fitting reminder of the institution’s tremendous growth and continued potential. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Scientific Women Deux:PosComm

Impact of chemotherapy drugs on target genes

7/13/10

4:28 PM

Page 1

BREAKING BOUNDARIES

I N S C I E N C E R E S E A R C H II

Genomic development of high-vitamin food crops

Top row, l to r: Dr. Jill Bargonetti, Professor of Biological Sciences, Hunter College and CUNY Graduate Center; Dr. Eleanor Wurtzel, Professor of Biological Sciences, Lehman College and CUNY Graduate Center; Dr. Christine Li, Associate Professor of Biology, City College of New York and CUNY Graduate Center. Bottom row, l to r: Flor Henderson, Assistant Professor of Biology, Hostos Community College; Dr. Ruth Stark, Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Director of CUNY Institute for Macromolecular Assemblies, City College and CUNY Graduate Center; Dr. Corinne Michels, Distinguished Professor of Biology, Queens College and CUNY Graduate Center.

Evolutionary developmental biology of palm trees

Molecular structure of biopolymers

Genes implicated in neurodegenerative disorders

Regulation of gene expression

B

reaking boundaries in science at The City University of New York — Whether investigating the most basic or far-reaching genetic and molecular research, or finding ways to provide better nutrition to starving populations, women scientists at all CUNY colleges are conducting pioneering research of world-wide importance. In addition, they are teaching and working with outstanding students in the newest areas of basic and applied science in laboratories and classrooms through CUNY’s “Decade of Science.” The new CUNY Goldstein Advanced Science Research Center at City College, now being built, with construction and Matthew Chancellor programming planned by Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning, Management and Construction Iris Weinshall and Vice Chancellor for Research Gillian Small, will offer the most advanced scientific research facilities and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration to all CUNY scientists.

For more information about CUNY women in science visit www.cuny.edu/decadeofscience

Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment

BELOW L-R: Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, chairman of Abyssinian Development Corporation; Georgi Exinord,eighth grade student at TMALS; Marian Wright Edelman, founder and president of Children's Defense Fund and Sheena Wright, president and CEO of Abyssinian Development Corporation

L-R: Samara Eubank and Sydeny Bush, students from Thurgood Marshall Academy Lower School

Matthew Reyes, senior at TMA

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg

A

byssinian Development Corporation (ADC), the nationally renowned not-for-profit community development organization celebrated the Harlem Renaissance Day of Commitment (HRDC) Leadership Breakfast on June 2. The event, which was attended by nearly 650 business, civic and political leaders, celebrates the more than two decades that, through its programs and services, ADC has contributed to the revival of the Harlem community.

Held in the Great Hall of Shepard Hall, on the campus of City College in the historic Hamilton Heights section of Harlem and hosted by Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, pastor of The Abyssinian Baptist Church and ADC chairman, the leadership breakfast celebrated ADC’s Education Movement—a holistic approach to increasing and improving opportunities for young people to benefit from a quality education continuum.

As evidence that, as stated by ADC President and CEO Sheena Wright, “…the larger purpose of today’s

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

breakfast is to ensure that our community has top-quality public education institutions for our children and that these institutions can continue to serve as models to others throughout the country…” Beautiful artwork and complex science projects created by the Thurgood Marshal Academy Lower School (TMALS) students were displayed for guests to see as they entered Shepard Hall. An Abyssinian Head Start parent, Andrew Christophe, proudly introduced TMALS fifth graders, Angel Moret and Richard Fagan, whose art work was used as the Renaissance Awards for the honorees. Ms. Wright introduced Thurgood Marshal Academy (TMA) senior Malcolm Wicks who delivered a moving piece he wrote entitled, “A Man’s Struggle.” TMA eighth grader Georgi Exinord and TMA senior Matthew Reyes, introduced the honorees, Marian Wright Edelman, founder and president of Children’s Defense Fund and Thomas J. McInerney, COO of ING Insurance and chairman of the ING Foundation. Abyssinian Total Praise Ensemble performed a stirring rendition of “Elijah Rock.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Bob Gore Productions

Children’s Defense Funds’ Marian Wright Edelman and ING’s Thomas J. Mcinerney honored Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III

President Lisa Staiano-Coico and the faculty, students, staff and alumni of

THE CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK

A

re proud to be a part of

HARLEM, USA w w w. c c n y. c u n y. e d u

Essex County College Celebrates Graduation ECC President Dr. Edythe M. Abdullah with Grand Marshal Nathan Himelstein prior to the start of the ceremony.

E

CC held its 41st Annual Commencement for the Class of 2010 at the Prudential Center in Newark on Thursday, May 27. It was indeed a day of pride and jubilation! The 1,120 graduates, the largest in the college’s history, included our youngest Valedictorian.

Abonghatou Che, who just turned 19, earned an Associate in Science in Biology/ Pre-Medicine, 4.0 grade point average. She is continuing at Rutgers-Newark where she transferred in January.

Abonghatou plans to become Getting ready for the ECC graduation. From a physician and has already left, Jeana Largin (Salutatorian and resident of earned top honors at UMDBloomfield), ECC Trustee Jeweline Grimes, and NJ’s Undergraduate Summer Valedictorioan Abonghatou Che. ATS PosComChange4-5x4-5:Nyack 2/11/09 11:40 Medical AM Page Program.

1

A Visit with a Legend

• Master

of Divinity • Master of Arts • Master of Professional Studies • Certificate Programs An Academically Excellent education that is Socially Relevant and Personally Transforming in an environment that is Globally Engaged and Intentionally Diverse.

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE! Wednesday, August 18, 2010 • 6:00 p.m.

Manhattan Campus, 361 Broadway, New York, NY

Call 800-541-6891 or visit our website at www.nyack.edu/ats to make a reservation to attend.

Nyack, NY • New York, NY • www.nyack.edu/ats

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

A

t the Hampton Ministers Conference, Rev. Dr. Joan J. Brightharp and her husband, Cornelius Dargan were delighted to be have the opportunity to visit with civil rights legend, Rev. Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker (seated), pastor emeritus of Harlem’s Canaan B.C. The Hampton Ministers Conference is an annual retreat that takes place at Hampton University for clergy and ministers of music and is one of the largest gatherings of African American churches in the U.S. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Options final 7/22/10

7/26/10

11:21 AM

Page 29

Welcome Back!

Classes start September 7 (September 24 for Fall II) apply now at www.essex.edu

essex C O U N T Y

C O L L E G E

New York Theological Seminary Certificate and Degree Programs

Summer Open House August 17; 4 pm - 6 pm

Master of Divinity Master of Professional Studies Doctor of Ministry

Registration for Classes Begins September 7 Ministry Fair

Certificate in Christian Ministry Online classes in English and Spanish Classes held evenings and weekends Courses offered in several languages

Come and see what God is doing: Creative and unique ministry options.

September 11; 10 am - 12 pm Faith and Wellness

2010 Health Summit “Creating Healthy Communities” Will address critical issues in healing, health care and nutrition within the urban context of poverty, immigration, and globalization.

September 20; 8 am - 3 pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Dr. Cynthia Díaz Director of Vocational Discernment 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500 New York, NY 10115 (212) 870-1212 Mention Code: PC

Webber Lecture in Urban MInistry

Featuring Efrain Agosto, Ph.D. Academic Dean, and Professor of New Testament Hartford Seminary

October 7; 7 pm

Stay connected to NYTS for additional information and details regarding our upcoming events.

Stay connected to NYTS for information and details about our upcoming events

Upcoming Events Fall 2010

.

Open House October 12 - 14; 4 pm - 6 pm NYTS National Bible Conference “God Spoke to Moses”

November 18; All day Conference Tel: 212.870.1211; Fax: 212.870.1236; E-mail:online@nyts.edu; www.nyts.edu

New York Theological Seminary Master of Professional Studies at Sing Sing Correctional Facility

Transformational

The transformational power of NYTS’s Sing Sing program offers society so much by giving hope to those left on the margins. Through our Master’s in Professional Studies program, inmates are offered a chance to meld rehabilitation and redemption and practice their ministry through the prison system.

Successful

The unique, fully accredited MPS program has a recidivism rate around 11% (state rate 49%). It continues to turn around the lives of not only sixteen or so students each year, but also the prisoners they serve while incarcerated and the people they serve once they are released. Since its inception in 1982, more than 350 men have graduated; almost half have been released and continue to serve the community.

Transformational - Successful - Faithful We are being educated on how to restore faith...how to strengthen the probability of success. We are being - Generous - Transformational educated to restore purpose in our lives. - Suc-

-Larry C., Class of 2007 cessful - Faithful - Generous - TransforWhen we walk through the gates of our prison wilderness

mational Faithful - Generand return-toSuccessful our families, to- our communities, and to society, our struggles will not end..take strength and - Successful ous - Transformational Faithful comfort knowing God is on [our] side.

Qualified students are selected based on faith, I., Class of 2007 - Faithful - Generous - -Anthony Transformational commitment to other inmates and academic promise.

Many of us in prison have found reasons to live..

Along with a rigorous curriculum, students must devote Successful - Faithful - Generous - TransFar too many people in this land-the so-called land of fifteen hours a week to supervised volunteer work with opportunity-live and die without ever discovering other prisoners. formational Successful - Faithful purpose or joy- in life.

Generous -Nathan B., Class of 2006 Generous - Transformational - Successful Students pay no tuition and the program receives no We have squandered years of our lives using drugs and government funds. It exists through the generous giving -alcohol Faithful Generous which-caused a lot of -usTransformational to end up in prison of people like you, graduates, churches and foundations. today. God knocks at the doors of our hearts, but it is up Please consider supporting this transformational ministry.

Change a life. Donate now to NYTS’s Sing Sing MPS Program. -toSuccessful us to let Him in. - Faithful - Generous -Joseph B., Class of 1998

New York Theological Seminary 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 500 New York, NY 10115 Tel: 212.870.1211; Fax: 212.870.1236 E-mail: online@nyts.edu www.nyts.edu

Join the Campaign for Sing-Sing at New York Theological Seminary in 3 easy steps!

1. Go to the “DONATE NOW” button on our website: www.nyts.edu 2. Select Sing Sing Prison Ministry Program from the Program Designation Drop Box 3. Begin transforming lives today or call 212.870.1218 for more information.

Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I rise, I rise, I rise.

From Dr. Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise” L–R: Dr. Benjamin Talton (Faculty), Sean Green, Julia Katz, Nicole Burrows, Mamadou Ndoye, Erika Ward, Maeemah Kitchens, Raquel Ruiz, (Seated) Terrell Amistead, Ashli Carter and Vincent Smith.

The Schomburg Center’s Summer Institute for Young Scholars

A

Photos and Text By Bob Gore

recurring question among my friends these days is, “Are today’s young people capable of continuing the African-American struggle for equality?”

Though a general assessment of our youth may not be reliable, I am certain that the group of college students I recently met at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is capable and eager to pursue the challenge.

The voices of the students resonated deep within me.

I was standing beside the open conference room door listening to the rapid-fire discussion when someone asked, “Why are you smiling?”

I replied, “It is delightful to see the future.”

I imagined that in this room of ultra bright college seniors is a future W.E.B. Du Bois, Maya Angelou, Madam C.J. Walker or Thurgood Marshall. Born in the Hip Hop, era these “Young Scholars” are versed in popular culture even while they excel in the academy.

They are the thinkers I yearn to see on television, in movies, in daily newspapers. Fortunately, they are entering their academic adulthood at the Schomburg, away from glaring lights and distractions, honing their skills in preparation for their time on the stage of life.

According to Dr. Howard Dodson, the Center’s renowned chief, "The [Young Scholars] program, co-sponsored by the Mellon Foundation, was launched because the Schomburg Center shares the deep concern of institutions of higher learning and learned societies regarding the unacceptably low number of African American and other minority undergraduates who elect to pursue graduate education in the humanities. Of even greater concern for the Center is the comparatively low number of minority and others who are pursuing graduate work in African American and African Diasporan studies.

The Institute is one of the many scholarly inventions developed during the Dodson’s tenure. Known as the foremost resource on performances, lectures, publica-

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Vincent Smith

Erika Ward

tions and research on the global African experience, the Schomburg Center has become the chosen location for meetings important to life in Harlem.

As one might expect, the group interplay was inviting and intense. The scholars were highly supportive of each other’s research. In addition to their individual assignments, most were pursuing long-term interests. I was intrigued by the sophistication of their personal projects.

One student, Vincent T. Smith, Jr., a senior at Virginia Union University, hopes to become a history professor.

His personal project is an oral history of the “Richmond 34” and their place in the civil rights sit-in movement.

Another student, Naeemah A. Kitchens, a senior at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, describes her project this way: “I am studying the effects of the Great Migration on notions of black sexual morality between 1910-1930.”

The confidence, maturity and discipline of the scholars are a positive reflection on their families, schools and on the Schomburg. But this is not a surprise. The Institute for Young Scholars is one in a long line of inwww.thepositivecommunity.com

L­–R: Erika Ward, Julia Katz and Sean Green

novative programs created during Dr. Dodson’s watch.

According to Dr. Sylviane Diouf, director of the Schomburg-Mellon Humanities Summer Institute, virtually all of the Institute’s Scholars go on to pursue graduate studies at major universities. Additionally, Scholars work on a personal research prospectus and, as a collective project, they identify, select and interpret photographs, prints, articles, books, and manuscripts for the development of a website illustrating the “Africana Age.” The daily schedule is orchestrated by a team of twentyfive distinguished scholars from the United States, Africa,

and the Caribbean, working in various disciplines such as History, English, Women’s Studies, Black Studies, Political Science, Art History, Religion, and Philosophy, conducted during three-hour daily seminars.

The Schomburg is America’s celebrated scholarly organization dedicated to black culture. Before there were Black Studies departments at Harvard, Cornell, the State University of New York or UCLA, the Center opened its doors in Harlem. The 10,000 item collection of Arturo Schomburg, a black man, became part of the New York Public Library’s 135th Street Branch in 1926.

After Schomburg’s death in 1938 it was renamed in his honor. Today the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture holds 10 million books, photographs, works of art and other materials.

One final note: after twenty-five years at the helm of the Schomburg Center, Dr. Dodson will retire in February of 2011. He is owed a huge debt of gratitude from us all. His departure marks the end of an era but, I trust, not the end of the Schomburg’s tradition of leadership.

The future of the Center and its vital connection to the community will be determined by our active involvement and financial support.

Isn’t it time you visited the Schomburg?

For more information go to www.nypl.org/locations/ schomburg

Back To School Jam

Free School Supply Giveaway

Sponsored by

In Memory of Shawn P. Cox Saturday, August 28, 2010 (Rain or Shine) Mount Zion AME Church • 10:00 a.m.

Rev. W. Golden Carmon, Sr., Pastor 630 East Front Street, Plainfield, NJ 07060 www.mzionamechurch.com (Parents and their children must attend this event to receive free school supplies) Corporate Sponsorships Opportunities Available • Individual Sponsorships Opportunities Available (starting at $10) Event produced by:

Providing Free School Supplies Necessary for Success since 1979 Martin P. Cox, President PO Box 2689 Plainfield, NJ 07060 • mpcox2@verizon.net • (732) 433-5630

We are currently accepting proposals from locations to Host an event from our 2011 “Back To School Jam” World Tour Schedule.

We will give away Free School Supplies Necessary for Success to Millions of children in 4 Countries, 13 States and 75 Cities.

Copyright© 2010 Thirst For Knowledge, LLC. All Rights Reserved www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

25

Led by Faith Rwanda Genocide Survivor Immaculee Ilibagiza Given Honorary Degree at CNR Commencement

T

he College of New Rochelle celebrated its 103rd Commencement on May 27, 2010. The College awarded 1,204 baccalaureate and master’s degrees during commencement exercises held at Radio City Music Hall. Honorary degrees were conferred on four distinguished recipients at this year’s Commencement, among them Immaculee Ilibagiza who gave the commencement address. Ms.Ilibagiza was born in Rwanda, West Africa. In the spring of 1994, she miraculously survived the savage killing spree that took the lives of most of her family and friends and more than a million of her fellow citizens during one of the most vicious and bloody genocides the world has ever seen. She credits her survival to prayer and to the set of rosary beads given to her by her devout Catholic father before she went into hiding. Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust is the title of her first book that narrates her story.

In her subsequent books, Led by Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide, Our Lady of Kibeho, and If Only We Had Listened, she further explores and espouses the necessity of sharing with one another the experience of God’s unconditional love for each person.

Now living in the United States with her two children, she shares widely her message of faith inspired love, and uses funds she raises and proceeds from her books to support the “Left to Tell” foundation to assist African children orphaned by genocide.

L–R: Michael N. Ambler, Esq., chairman of the Board of Trustees; honorary degree recipients, Commencement Speaker Immaculée Ilibagiza; Maria M. Odom, Esq.; Mary Healey Sedutto, Ph.D.; A. Stanley Kosan, D.D.S.; and CNR President Stephen J. Sweeny, Ph.D.

ASA Celebrates at Radio City Music Hall

F

ounded in 1985 with a class of only 12 students, ASA has experienced tremendous growth because of its curriculum’s responsiveness to the needs of employers. ASA now has over 3,000 students at both its Brooklyn and Midtown Manhattan locations. ASA offers Associate Degrees in Allied Health, Business Administration-Accounting, Criminal Justice, and Computer Network Administration, which students can complete in just 16 months.

This year’s commencement ceremony was a joyous celebration of the accomplishments of the ASA family of graduates, faculty, and administrative staff.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Columbia University salutes the greater harlem chamber of commerce

HarlemWeek 2010 Some

of the

Paul Robeson Columbia Law School 1923

Great ColumbianS

who have made hiStory with you...

Milton MoRan Weston ii

ZoRa neale HuRston joHn louis Barnard College 1928, Graduate Wilson jR. School of Arts and Sciences student 1934-35

Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation 1928

Columbia College 1930; Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 1940, 1969

CHaRles R. DReW

KennetH b. ClaRK Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 1940, Columbia Law School 1970

Hon. RobeRt l.

CaRteR

sHiRley CHisHolM

College of Physicians and Surgeons 1940

MaMie PHiPPs ClaRK

Teachers College 1951

Columbia Law School 1941

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences 1943

eRiC HolDeR

DaviD PateRson

baRaCK obaMa

Columbia College 1973, Columbia Law School 1976

Columbia College 1977

Columbia College 1983

benjaMin toDD jealous Columbia College 1997

www.columbia.edu/blackhistory

Next Generation Honors A Legacy Of Service

E

Students at Mother Hale Academy Receive Awards in her Memory

ight fifth-grade students from the Mother Hale Academy, P.S. 65 in Harlem, received The Mother Hale Achievement Award from The Children of Mother Hale Coalition, Inc. (CMHC) Board member Nathan Hale, and co-founder and your community.”

Deputy Director Joyce Taylor-Hale “The presentation of the first during graduation ceremonies at Mother Hale Awards represents our the Academy. Janine Starks, a school response to President Obama’s call alumna received an award for her for all American’s to ‘step up and volvolunteer work. unteer in their communities,’” said The award-winners were chosen Ms. Taylor-Hale. “CMHC is commitby the principal, Tashon McKeithan, ted to helping children and families for their essays on “Why we should in our community recognize and dehonor Mother Hale.” velop their full human potential and Nathan Hale told the winners, become productive, contributing “All of you will honor both my moth- citizens,” Ms. Taylor-Hale concluded. er and the school named after her The Children of Mother Hale if you continue in your education Coalition is a non-profit organizaand becomecom productive of 1tion founded in 2005 by the late Dr. Pos com:Poc .4 7/22/10members 10:11 am Page

Shaping tomorrow’s

Joyce Taylor-Hale and Janine Starks, an alumna of Mother Hale Academy who was presented with The Mother Hale Achievement Award for her volunteer work.

Kenneth R. Hale, the youngest son of Clara McBride Hale who in 1969, at the age of 64, founded the much heralded Hale House where she boarded and often raised abandoned and orphaned drug-addicted children. CMHC’s mission is to preserve and share the humanitarian legacy of Mother Hale to inspire others to commit to community service, volunteerism, leadership, and care for children and families.

Nathan Hale is Mother Hale’s oldest son and Joyce Taylor-Hale is the widow of Dr. Kenneth Hale. —JNW

Nubian Union Prayer Breakfast

11am-1pm L–R: Henry Rawls, Marlie Hall, Stephanie DeGeneste and Clark Everson

T Educating Young WomEn 7th to 12th gradE

28

The Positive Community Summer 2010

he Brownstone of Paterson resounded with the jubilance of Juneteenth, as the NubianUnion, a collaboration of non-profits, celebrated a Prayer Breakfast that honored Stephanie DeGeneste, co-founder of New Covenant Christian Academy of Plainfield; television journalist and Haitian activist, Marlie Hall; and Rev. Msgr. Paul D. Schetelick, Dean of Bayonne, pastor of St. Andrew’s Church, Bayonne and social activist. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Keep Summer Safe and Fun! S ummer is a time of exploration and fun. Here are some tips to keep your child healthy and safe this summer.

• Go over the importance of wearing a helmet when riding a bike, skateboard, or roller skating.

• Keep fireworks out of your child’s hands.

• Remind your child to swim safely by following the rules at the pool, lake, or ocean.

Working together, parents, teachers, and school staff can keep summer fun – and safe – for children so they return to school refreshed and ready to learn.

New Jersey Education Association Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President • Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vincent Giordano, Executive Director • Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/Research Director

The Best and the Brightest Brooklyn Children’s Museum and National Grid Foundation honor Museum Team Standouts

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

N Y T S 110th Commencement

N

ew York Theological Seminary celebrated its 110th Annual Commencement at The Riverside Church on Saturday, May 15, 2010. The Class of 2010 at NYTS is recorded as the largest graduating class in the history of the Seminary. Among the graduates this year were father and son, Jesse Branson, Sr. and Jesse Branson, Jr., who graduated from the Certificate Program and Master of Divinity Program, respectively; Ruqaiyah Nabé and Nurah-Rosalie P. Jeter Amat’ullah, the first Muslims to graduate from the Multi-faith Doctor of Ministry Program, and Nigel Pearce, Pastor of Grace Congregational Church of Harlem, who received the Master of Divinity degree and was awarded the President’s Award from Dr. Dale T. Irvin.

Missing from the Commencement ceremony were the 11 graduates who received the Master of Professional Services Degree at Sing Sing Correctional Facility on June 10, 2010. New York Theological Seminary continues to be the only Seminary that offers a degree within the New York State Correctional Facility. The Master of Professional Studies Degree Program at Sing Sing began in 1982 under the tutelage of the late President Emeritus George “Bill” W. Webber. The Rev. Dr. Rebeca M. Radillo delivered the commencement address.

Nu’rah-Rosalie P. Jeter Amat’ullah; one of two Muslim Graduates from the Multi-faith Doctor of Ministry program

Graduate Nigel A. Pearce, Pastor of Grace Congregational Church of Harlem receives the President’s Award from Dr. Dale T. Irvin

M. Div graduates, John Daley (left) and Philip Craig, congratulate each other

Carver Bank Opens Flatbush Branch L–R: Pazel Jackson, Carver Bank Board member; Deborah C. Wright, chairman/ CEO, Carver Bancorp, Inc.; Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke; Council Member Dr. Mathieu Eugene; NYC Deputy Mayor Dennis Walcott; Kashif Khawaji, branch manager Carver Bank Flatbush Financial Ctr.; John Spencer, chief of Retail, Carver Bank; Blondel A. Pinnock, president, Carver Community Development Corp. and Carver team members cut the ribbon to celebrate the new Flatbush Financial Center.

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arver Bancorp, Inc., the holding company for Carver Federal Savings Bank, welcomed a crowd of New York’s legislative officials, religious leaders and loyal customers to a VIP reception and ribbon-cutting ceremony in April celebrating the newest Carver Financial Center located at 833 Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, NY. The financial center is located in a historically high growth neighborhood in Brooklyn and a central “gateway” www.thepositivecommunity.com

for the Caribbean community to the New York Region and beyond. This new financial center represents an opportunity for Carver given the substantial presence of small businesses, nonprofit institutions and consumers, in a geography where Carver’s brand is well recognized. It also demonstrates Carver’s firm belief in the stability and opportunity inherent in African- and Caribbean-American communities.

The event will include remarks from Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, Comptroller John Liu, Brooklyn Borough President Marty

Markowitz, Council Member Dr. Mathieu Eugene and other elected officials. Carver presented contributions to the NYC Haitian Community Hope & Healing Fund and the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund.

These contributions will join those from around the world, to rebuild strengthen Haiti.

“Carver is delighted to plant new roots in Flatbush, one of New York City’s most diverse and vibrant communities,” said Deborah C. Wright, Chairman & CEO. “We look forward to continuing our long-standing tradition of investing in neighborhoods we call home, as we’ve demonstrated for over 60 years.”

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The Lion of Lenox Avenue Charlie Rangel: “I’ve only just begun to fight!”

BY HERB BOYD

hen small businesses in Harlem were on the brink of total collapse, Congressman Charles Rangel authored the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone bill, providing many with the necessary provisions to keep their doors open. Recently, when rumors surfaced that the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture was endangered, Rangel was among the first elected officials to respond.

When North General Hospital was in the throes of bankruptcy, Rangel rushed to its aid, helping to arrange for the federal government to takeover the facility to ensure that residents continue to have uninterrupted medical services.

The “whens” are endless for a representative who has been in office ever since “when,” or more accurately more than forty years, and is still on the hustings with his re-election campaign well under way.

Rangel, sometimes referred to as one of the legendary Gang of Four—the others being David Dinkins, Basil Paterson, and the late Percy Sutton—has another rarely mentioned sobriquet—the “Lion of Lenox Avenue.”

Despite his detractors and the presumed candidates in the ring to contest him, and though the lion’s raspy roar may not be as chilling and intimidating as in the past,

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with his army of supporters and the money in his war chest, he remains an incumbent of immense power and capability.

“I’ve only just begun to fight,” he roared at a recent fundraiser at the Hudson Café on the Upper West Side.

Resplendent in a white sport jacket, his mane burnished with streaks of gray, Rangel is a formidable congressman.

His opponents, however, would like to think that recent charges have weakened his customary prowess.

“He’s still the man to beat,” said one local pundit who follows the political elections assiduously and asked that her name not be used. “To defeat Charles will require money, moxie, and magic. And there aren’t too many hopefuls with an abundance of these things.”

Nor do they possess Rangel’s political savvy and instincts, his network of insiders who keep him abreast of local news and issues, in touch with the latest scuttlebutt, and where he should be and who to confer with before leaping into the fray. Sometimes it’s nothing more than his mere presence that commands attention.

Most recently he was in the front pew at St. Aloysius Church for the funeral services of Sister Mary Celine Graham who was killed when a vehicle driven by a fleeing felon mowed her down and injured others. More

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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than one speaker, including His Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan, who presided at the services, felt compelled to acknowledge Rangel’s presence.

Staying in touch with Harlem and its day-to-day realities has been a mainstay of Rangel’s political success over the years. Very little of grave significance to the community escapes his purview, and what he fails to see, his highly competent staff and lieutenants make sure he’s informed.

But sometimes even the efficiency of a well-oiled staff can’t catch all the complexities of rules and regulations governing the limits of a U.S. representative. Among the charges he is enduring from the House Ethics Committee is an alleged violation of travel to the Caribbean at a company’s expense. He is also being investigated for using his congressional stationery in seeking funds for a proposed center to be named after him at City College. Then there’s the failure to fully

Rangel ranked seventeenth with 285 co-sponsored bills and 17 of these were made into law. He was also ranked seventh among representatives most viewed and the 25th most blogged. www.thepositivecommunity.com

report earnings, possessing four rent-stabilized apartments, and tax evasion regarding property in the Dominican Republic.

The most grievous of the charges is the trip to the Caribbean. But the congressman insists that the trip was approved by the ethics panel and that two staff members failed to inform him and the panel of the corporate funding. “In other words,” Rangel explained, “I have to take the blame for what my staff failed to do.”

The investigations provided an opening for his foes, and none more aggressive than Adam Clayton Powell, IV. In 1994, Rangel soundly defeated Powell, but now the challenger is back again. More than forty years ago Rangel narrowly edged Powell’s father, giving him the distinction of defeating both a father and son.

As in the past, Rangel rarely responds to his opponents, preferring not to give them the attention they seek. “You can fire your best shot but you can’t walk over success,” Rangel declared.

And that success is impressive by any standards. Some of that phenomenal success is delivered passionately in his memoir, And I Haven’t Had a Bad Day Since, in which readers can discover the vivid details of his heroic war experiences in Korea. A few weeks ago, OpenCongress.org, which tracks the action and effectiveness of Congressional members, published its report.

They reported that Rangel ranked number one among 440 House Representatives in terms of sponsored bills (50) with 11 of them making into law.

Rangel ranked 17th with 285 co-sponsored bills and 17 of these were made into law. He was also ranked 7th among representatives most viewed and the 25th most blogged.

These should be daunting figures for any candidate willing to challenge Rangel, and, most astonishingly, the report comes months after he relinquished his powerful seat as chair of the House Ways and Means Committee.

During the battle over health care reform, the immigration debacle, financial reform, climate change, and the war in Afghanistan, Rangel has been unwaveringly at the forefront. Though he voted for additional funds for the war in Afghanistan, he also renewed his proposal of 2003 to reinstate the military draft.

He said that lawmakers who support the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan should require “all who enjoy the benefits of our democracy to contribute to the defense of the country.” While he firmly supports President Obama’s plan to eventually bring the troops home, he just wants it done faster.

Regarding the ethics investigation and possible trial, Rangel says he’s ready for the fight. He recently admitted, though, that it is a rough period for his family, his community and for him. “But we’ll all get by this,” he said.

And in the Village of Harlem, the lion still roars.

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

Helping Families Save Homes

By Chandra Hayslett

CJCDC has Saved Nearly 200 Families from Foreclosure this Year

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n the last six months, 325 families in danger of losing their homes have walked through the doors of the Housing Assistance Recovery Program.

And because of the skilled housing counselors, 60 percent or 195 of those families’ homes were saved.

But Jesse Crawford, director of the Housing Assistance and Recovery Program (HARP), which is a state-certified housing counseling program that supports homeowners and tenants threatened by foreclosure, said the numbers would be higher if families wouldn’t wait until the last minute to get help.

“Eight percent of folks come in when they’re already in foreclosure and some come in after the sheriff has already scheduled the sale, so we do what we can to stop the sale,” he said.

Crawford said the right time for homeowners to contact HARP, which is an affiliate of the Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC), is before they get behind on payments.

HARP counselors use a number of options to work to save homes, from loan modifications—working with the bank that owns the loan to restructure the payments, to mediation—where they have to go to court to save the home.

And there are still benefits when the counselor cannot save the home. “We can’t help everybody, but we open their eyes to what they can afford,” Crawford said.

He says his staff’s caseloads haven’t changed in the last year, but they are more focused on mitigation and modifications, rather than acquisitions. In previous years, the state allocated money for organizations like HARP to purchase homes from those in danger of losing them.

The homeowner would make mortgage payments, which would be lower, to the organization rather than the bank.

But those funds have dried up.

“Now, we help them find rentals,” he said.

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HARP works closely with CDC Properties, Inc., which purchases, rehabs, sells and/or rents homes. The homes are sold and rented below market rate, said Ann Young, director of CDC Properties, which is also an affiliate of the CJCDC. “We’re working to make homes available to those in need, whether that’s people in foreclosure, first-time homebuyers or people looking to Rev. DeForest B. Soaries lease to own,” Young said.

CDC Properties has acquired three properties this year in Elizabeth and Newark. Two were donated and one was purchased.

Crawford said there are many organizations available to people in or near foreclosure, but stressed that legitimate services are free. “Seek a certified HUD (Housing and Urban Development) counseling center and do not pay anyone for their services when they should be free,” he said.

Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC), formerly known as First Baptist Community Development Corporation (FBCDC), is one of New Jersey’s most comprehensive and holistically-run community development organizations. Founded in 1992 by Rev. DeForest B. Soaries Jr., Ph.D., and incorporated as a 501(c) (3) non-profit, non-sectarian organization, the CJCDC has a long history of helping vulnerable communities in New Jersey transition from social and economically warped zones to neighborhoods that project economic growth, sustainability, and empowerment of its residents.

For more information about the Central Jersey Community Development Corporation, visit cjcdc.org or call (732) 247-0444. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corp. welcomes you to Harlem Week 2010. You’ll find a wealth of things to see and do as you experience the richness and diversity of New York’s most famous community.

Come up to Harlem and enjoy yourselves!

Grand Opening of East River Plaza Mall Hosted by Kenneth Knuckles, president of UMEZ

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n Tuesday, July 20th, Kenneth J. Knuckles, president/CEO of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corp. (UMEZ), hosted the grand opening ceremony for the East River Plaza Mall. The mall which boasts a 1,250-space parking facility, is adjacent to the FDR Drive between 116th and 119th Streets and easily accessible via the 116th Street FDR exit.

The mall’s retail tenants include Costco, Best Buy, Target, Bob’s Discount Furniture, GameStop, Old Navy, Marshall’s, Kidstown, Verizon and PetSmart.

“This project represents the single largest investment UMEZ has ever made and brings our total investment in East Harlem to over $100 million,” said Mr. Knuckles. “East River Plaza not only brings additional quality retail choices to Upper Manhattan, but even more importantly, it represents job creation. In the case of this mall, more than 1,000 jobs will be for residents of this community.”

UMEZ’s mission is to revitalize distressed communities by using geographically targeted public funds and tax incentives as catalysts for private investment. In Upper Manhattan, the communities that lie within the Empowerment Zone's borders include Harlem, East Harlem, Washington Heights and Inwood. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Kenneth Knuckles was joined by a number of elected officials, including Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer and Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. In addition to other City and State government officials, also in attendance were Ed Blumenfeld and David Blumenfeld of Blumenfeld Development Group, Bruce Ratner of Forest City Ratner Companies, and Peter Davidson, Executive Director of the Empire State Development Corp.

L-R: Hope Knight, COO, UMEZ; Raymond Lewis, RPL Associates and Sheila Banks

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Cultivating an Abundant Community Bed–Stuy Restoration Fundraiser Celebrates 43 Years of Community Service

L–R: Restoration Board Chair Wayne Winborne, honoree JPMorgan Chase Foundation President Kimberly Davis; the Honorable William Gray (presenter); Restoration President Colvin Grannum

L–R: Restoration Board Chair Wayne Winborne, honoree Prudential Foundation President Gabriella Morris; the Honorable William Gray (Co-Chairman, Grayloeffler, LLC; Restoration President Colvin Grannum

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ver 350 people gathered at Manhattan’s Pier 60 on June 16 to mark Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation’s 43rd year of service to the Central Brooklyn community. Bed-Stuy Restoration as it has come to be known was the nation’s first community development corporation at its founding in 1967 by bi-partisan New York Senators Robert F. Kennedy and Jacob K. Javits.

Philanthropic leaders Kimberly Davis, president JPMorgan Chase Foundation, New York State Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Gabriella Morris, president of Prudential Foundation were honored at the event.

The Honorable Velmanette Montgomery received the Restoration Founder's Award for Outstanding Service to Children and Families. A long time partner of Restoration and champion of Central Brooklyn, Senator Montgomery is responsible for earmarks totaling $400,000 for community arts programs and services for formerly incarcerated youth.

Kimberly Davis received the Robert F. Kennedy Award for Excellence in Leadership. JPMorgan Chase and its predecessor institution have supported Restoration since its inception in 1967. Chase Bank remains one of oldest tenants in Restoration Plaza, the 300,000 square foot commercial and community center owned by Restoration. Under Ms. Davis’ leadership, JPMorgan Chase has helped Restoration launch and expand its workforce and economic development programming and is currently

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L–R: Restoration Board Chair Wayne Winborne, Restoration President Colvin Grannum, honoree State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Regent at Large, Dr. Lester Young, Jr.

advising the organization as it prioritizes education as a means of eradicating systemic poverty.

The recipient of the Jacob Javits Achievement Award for Outstanding Support for Community Development, Gabriella Morris shares her fellow honorees’ enthusiasm.

Through her leadership, Prudential continues to make significant contributions to educational reform, youth leadership and economic development nationwide.

Colvin W. Grannum, president and CEO of Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, explained, “ While we work to create a more vibrant and viable place to live, work and visit, our distinguished honorees epitomize the vision and perseverance so essential to making this change happen. This evening celebrated some very important milestones we’ve reached such as the launch of our new Green Initiatives and creation of the Bed Stuy Gateway BID. ” Also highlighting Restoration’s work were moving testimonials by 18 year old Steven Tripari, soon to be Benjamin Bannecker High School senior and Pratt institute Freshman; and 21 year old Ashley Gibson, 2009 Graduate of the NYC Justice Corps and current Sanitation Crew Supervisor for the newly formed Bed Stuy Gateway Business Improvement District. Other highlights included a performance by Restoration’s signature youth dance ensemble, the Restoration Dance Theatre Company.

David Ushery, NBC News 4 anchor, presided as master of ceremony. Kim Jasmin, vice president for JP Morgan Chase, served as dinner chair. —jnw www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Margot Jordan

21 year old Ashley Gibson, 2009 Graduate of the NYC Justice Corps and current Sanitation Crew Supervisor for the newly formed Bed Stuy Gateway Business Improvement District.

L–R: Journalist Herb Boyd and his wife Elza Boyd, College of New Rochelle

L–R: Donna Wilson Brown, AMEX; Lloyd Brown, Citibank; Rhonda Lewis, Bridge Street Development Corporation

L–R: Antonia Yuille Williams, Director of Public Affairs, ConEdison, Dyrnest Sinckler, EVP and Chief Operating Officer, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration; Marcella Maxwell (community resident and leader)

Gillibrand Legislative Summit of NY Clergy Leaders L–R: US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand with Rev. Lisa Jenkins, Blessed Trinity B.C., Harlem

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his past Tuesday, U.S. Senator Gillibrand convened a legislative summit of AfricanAmerican Faith-Based Leaders in Washington, DC. 30 Brooklyn community leaders, ministers, and pastors who represent faithbased groups, churches and organizations serving African-American communities across New York State attended yesterday’s summit, titled “Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships: A Plan to Impact Our Communities.”

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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WILLIAM S. PARRISH, JR. MAKING BOLD MOVES

William S. Parrish, Jr. is President & CEO of Noble Strategy, LLC

Economic Empowerment in Harlem s we enjoy the month long celebration that is Harlem Week, let us remember the passion, independence and creativity that are the heritage and tradition forged by great business leaders and entrepreneurs in the Village of Harlem. In viewing prominent examples of leadership that created this thriving culture and business community, we should know that those that have come before us laid a mighty foundation in their quest to build a legacy. Ancestors who made bold moves to educate youth, promote the arts, build black business and empower generations would be proud what is happening today as statistics show a record number of minority businesses across this nation (according to the US Census Bureau, over 1.2 million black businesses with gross revenues of over $88 Billion in 2002). Because of this, any opportunity to make a bold move and establish businesses, develop leaders and invest in the Harlem community should not be lost. We must seize every opportunity that leads to economic empowerment for our people.

During a recession where financing is slow, folks might be hesitant to open new businesses or move existing businesses to any community, but I challenge you to consider a “servant entrepreneurship” model and your contribution to the local landscape. For entrepreneurs, ready to make an impact, take a look at what a community like Harlem can bring to your business, but also what you bring to Harlem. Harlem, certainly has a lot to offer, such as rich culture, world class cuisine, upscale entertainment, new housing and a cohesiveness not seen many other places, but business owners have the unique opportunity to impact the lives of residents through economic empowerment. The creation of jobs, renewal of the business community, creation of wealth, preservation of institutions and the development of professional services enhance the living and working conditions for all residents. Even with many choices for locating your business, owners should think about Harlem mainly because

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

of the by-products created when you come to town. New businesses offer products and services for a fee, but are usually committed to becoming a cohesive part of the community they serve and willing to give support to those who support them.

I recently participated in a focus group with city officials to discuss sustaining the local business community in Harlem. While many of us shared common stories of high commercial rents, lack of access to capital, prohibitive zoning requirements and lack of financial investment by government, we were not surprised that these conditions exist, while some claim to be in support of growing business communities equally across the city.

This confirms that it won’t be done for us, but we will have to do it ourselves.

It will take “Bold Moves” by entrepreneurs to offer products and services in areas that don’t receive the city investment that other neighborhoods do. It will take “Bold Moves” by professionals who believe they can contribute to the development of the local landscape by providing quality, competitive offerings in densely populated areas. It will take “Bold Moves” by citizens aware they can launch businesses that create economic empowerment in areas where residents with few service options are forced to spend money elsewhere. It will take “Bold Moves” by owners convinced it makes sense to provide jobs and services where people live, and not just minimum wage jobs, but jobs across all professions.

So, in fulfilling the economic empowerment agenda for Harlem, make bold moves and create your own opportunities. Be prepared to create your own history and build a legacy, reflective of the strong souls and entrepreneurial minds that pioneered before you. Take action by bringing your creativity, passion, jobs and businesses to Harlem, and watch economic empowerment and entrepreneurship accelerate growth and renewal of a magnificent community.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Essex County Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action is committed to promoting business opportunities for small, women and minority-owned vendors. Essex County’s Bonding Readiness Program is the first-ever multiple county bonding program geared to helping SBE, DBE, MBE and WBE businesses gain the necessary credentials to apply for government contracts. We encourage you to sign up for this FREE program.

- Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive The Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Essex County Office of Small Business Development and Affirmative Action present

The Essex County Bonding Readiness Program consists of an 8week comprehensive business development course for small, women and minority owned businesses, followed by one-onone counseling sessions with surety bond professionals. The goal is for each contractor who successfully completes the program to obtain a bond, bond line or increase his or her bonding limit.

September 2, 2010

The County of Essex has partnered with The Surety & Fidelity Association of America to provide a Bonding Readiness Program to SBE, DBE, MBE and WBE vendors in New Jersey.

The Program is FREE, but Registration is REQUIRED.

through

October 28, 2010

Workshops Include: Business Planning and Management for Construction Construction Accounting and Financial Management Banking and Financing for Contractors Bonding and Insurance for New and Emerging Contractors Marketing, Estimating and Bidding Project Management and Field Operations Claims and Dispute Resolution Managing Growth

• • • • • • • •

For further information and to RSVP, please call 973.621.2011 or email

Ideal Candidates Should Possess the Following: Minimum of 2 years business experience Financial records covering Profit and Loss History of successful project experience Commitment to complete the program

• • • •

bondingreadiness@essexcntynj.org This project is funded by a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA’s funding should not be construed as an endorsement of any products, opinions, or services. All SBAfunded projects are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested two weeks in advance. Contact Deborah E. Collins, Esq., Director, Small Business Development and Affirmative Action, Hall of Records, Room 449A, 465 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Newark NJ 07102. Telephone: (973) 6212010.

Congratulations to the

Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce on their

35th Harlem Week Anniversary

Construction Management • Project Management Sustainable Design & Construction Services • Emerging Business Mentoring • Workforce Development

SUMMER 2010

125 STREET BID NEWSLETTER

VOL. VI NO. 1

(see page 7) 360 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027 • 212-662-8999 • www.125thstreetbid.com

From the Desk of the President

By Barbara Askins, President & CEO 125th Street Business Improvement District lace management and development are key components to creating a great community. Here at the 125th Street BID, we focus on what it takes for us to Expand, Maximize, Create and Improve.

The 125th Street Business Improvement District’s mission is to expand economic activity, maximize the ability of local residents, businesses, and institutions to benefit from the expansion, create a more enjoyable experience for shoppers and pedestrians, and improve the quality of life.

Harlem is, arguably, a leading world community and 125th Street is its major commercial district. The names Harlem and 125th Street are world famous brands equal to the best that New York has to offer in terms of shopping, cultural activities, entertainment, restaurants and bars.

However, this popularity brings pressure and intensity of use and strains the fabric of the community and its services.

The 125th Street Business Improvement District encompasses the area on 125th Street between Morningside and Fifth Avenues.

This Central District provides a cultural, entertainment and business focus that is responsive not only to local business and residential needs, but also draws people from the New York area and tourists from around the world. With visitor hot spots such as the world famous Apollo Theater, 125th Street handles pedestrian movement on a large scale year round.

The 125th Street District Management Association Board of Directors is comprised of key landowners, local business owners, residents, elected officials, and community boards. The board addresses the increasing pressures on the District.

A strategy that focuses on creating a strong central district works effectively in helping to develop stronger businesses throughout the whole commercial corridor east and west of the District.

In this newsletter we highlight our operations, our partners, our activities and some of our future plans to continue to build on the work of the past and set the stage for our future.

Annual Meeting

Curtis Sherrod, Hip Hop Culture Center; Rajendra Patel, Family Pharmacy and Surgical Inc.; Karia Hill, Residential Tenant; and Aleksandro Truglio, A-Loft Hotel.

P Harlem is, arguably, a leading world community and 125th Street is its major commercial district.

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he BID held its 17th Annual Meeting on July 10, 2010 at the Hip Hop Culture Center, which overlooks 125th Street at the corner of BID Chairman Vincent Morgan wel- Frederick Douglass Boulevard. Following is comes guests to 17th annual meeting. an overview of the subjects covered.

Election of Board of Directors

l-r: Ross Jacobs, chair of Public Safety and Lisa Tucker, residential representative 125th Street BID

Four Board members were re-elected: Jeffrey Brooker, Webb and Brooker; Drew Greenwald Grid Properties; Dr. Joseph Tait, Harlem Commonwealth Council; and Blondel Pinnock, Carver Bank.

Five newly elected members are: Leah Abraham, 120 West 125th Street Realty;

Inspector Rodney Harris and Janelle Procope, president/CEO Apollo Theatre Foundation

Manhattanville Update uest presenters Maxine Griffith and Victoria Mason-Ailey both of Columbia University provided an update on the Manhattanville Project just west of the BID’s boundaries. The Manhattanville Project is the University’s environmentally sustainable development plan to expand its campus. Ms. Ailey explained that the project will bring jobs, housing and revitalization to the currently underdeveloped area.

Maxine Griffith Ms. Griffith discussed the Columbia Secondary School for Math, Science, & Engineering (CSSMSE), the 6th through 12th grade school that opened in the fall of 2007. A partnership between the New York City Department of Education, the community and Columbia University, CSS-MSE serves academically talented students who have an interest in a rigorous and demanding program focusing on math, science, and engineering. The school is located on the 5th and 4th floors of PS125 on 123rd Street between Amsterdam and Morningside, until the new building is completed at 125th Street and Victoria Broadway.

Mason-Ailey

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125th Street Business Improvement District Newsletter

BID Holds Second Pole Banner Competition he 125th Street BID seeks to maximize the value of the 125th Street corridor by initiating efforts that solidify its identity as Harlem’s primary cultural district. BID ON CULTURE is a campaign to help to build a community-based vision of Harlem’s heritage, its role as a vibrant cultural center, and to help promote the continued revitalization of 125th Street as the commercial and artistic heart of Harlem. Enhancing the streetscape of 125th Street through the BID ON CULTURE project is a major part of these efforts. The 2010 Banners banners were unveiled at a press conference prior to the BID’s annual meeting and were selected from entries in a competition held through a partnership with the Harlem Arts Alliance. Winning artists are: Nicole Brown, Laura Gadson and Beatrice Lebreton.

Banners are on display on 125th Street between Morningside and Fifth Avenues and are sponsored by Con Edison, Amsterdam News, TD Bank, and Harlem Community Development Corporation.

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2010 THEME: CELEBRATING BLACK MUSIC

The newest addition to the BID administration Staff

Sunshine Bracey

unshine Bracey’s role at the 125th Street BID is a diverse one. Working as an executive assistant, project manager and researcher, Sunshine has played a major role in several projects since her beginning with the BID in March of this year. She has been involved with the 2010 BID on Culture Banner Project, Dot Plaza Hanock Place and Web Site development and management.

Says Sunshine, “I enjoy working with the 125th Street BID. My colleagues are pleasant, the office is peaceful and every day is different. It is opening my eyes to a whole new world of business, management and marketing. I am learning so much about New York City’s agencies and their processes. I admire those who take the necessary steps to improve the quality of life for themselves as well as others around them. I give a BIG thumbs up to all BID Managers and their staffs.”

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2

L-R: Curtis Archer , Harlem Community Development Corporation; Vincent Morgan , chair 125th Street BID; Nicole Brown ,artist; Michael Unthank, Harlem Arts Alliance; Curtis Sherrod , H2C2; Beatrice Lebreton, artist;, Barbara Askins, president& CEO 125th BID; Laura Gadson, artist and Voza Rivers, Harlem Arts Alliance.

1-2-5 Goes High-Fashion What’s the latest thing to hit 125th Street? You might think it’s a tornado, but it’s really Rose Cardon.

She’s a whirlwind of activity, with two high-fashion boutiques on this famous street. Apollo Shoes, Bags & Accessories has everything the trendy fashionista needs to augment her look—Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Fendi, Dolce & Gabana and more—in all the fresh new styles. La Scala, across the street from the Apollo Theatre, carries high-fashion apparel for women and men and is set to open in early August.

La Scala will carry every current high-fashion designer.

Ms. Cardon, says, “People in our community no longer have to go downtown to find the finest in clothing, shoes and accessories; it’s right here on 125th Street. We also want to be an example to our young people, that it’s possible to realize your dreams, if you focus and work hard—each one teach one.” Bringing haute couture Harlem flair to Bergen County, last year Cardon opened Apollo Signature, a highfashion boutique, in Englewood, NJ.

BIDttendees New Website of the board of directors meeting were

A

treated to a preview of the BID’s new, more user friendly website. This project was made possible through a grant from NYC’s Dept of Small Business Services. Visit our website at www.125thstreetbid.com to obtain more information on what’s available on 125th Street such as a high proportion of apparel, accessory, and sporting good stores . . . You’ll also find an event calendar and local news, as well as a complete listing of: Arts and Culture, Beauty, Coffee Shop and Fast Food, Entertainment, Financial Services, Food and Grocery, Parking and Car Service, Pharmacy, Professional Services, Real Estate, Restaurants, Salons and Barbers, Utility, and Retail establishments.

Keep Harlem Clean&Safe ith the BID focus for fiscal year 2010–2011 “Keeping Harlem Clean and Safe,” Chief Phillip Banks III, NYPD Manhattan North, gave a powerful, informative and heartfelt presentation stating that relationships between the community Chief Phillip and the police are most important in creating a safe Banks II environment in any community. He discussed the importance of citizens and police officers getting to know one another and stressed that parents must be actively involved in their children’s lives and along with other adults be willing to work with the police.

A clean and safe 125th Street can serve as a gateway to a revitalized Harlem. A solid maintenance program that improves the image, aesthetics and property values in the district. Through our ambassador and clean team programs we ensure that the vitality of the district will have a positive effect on everyone who steps into the area—building owners, tenants, residents, workers, visitors and tourists. continued on page 4

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DOT Plaza Project ID submitted an application to the Department of

B

Transportation (DOT) NYC Plaza Program to create a plaza on Hancock Place between Morningside and St. Nicholas Avenues. It is a city-wide competitive grant. In preparing our application, we received support from Community Board #9, New York City Housing Authority, Firehouse Theater, Mannie Wilson Housing, Harlem Community Development Corporation, Harlem Independent Living Center and Hancock Place Apartments. DOT is expected to make a final decision in October 2010. If 125th BID is selected, the City will then begin the engineering, design and approval process. Even though we have submitted the application, we are still gathering letters of support. If you would like more information or would like to offer a letter of support, please call Sunshine Bracey at 212662-8999 or e-mail sbracey@125thstreetbid.com.

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125th Street Business Improvement District Newsletter

New Retail Business on the Street

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Keep Harlem Clean & Safe continued from page 3

Meet Jautel Hill— 125th St. Ambassador Supervisor orn and raised in Bronx New B York, and employed with the BID for two years and six months.

125th Street Business Improvement District Newsletter

Jautel Hill enjoys sports music and family. “Family means the world to me.”

“Working at the 125th Street BID has been a very educational Jautel Hill receives Employee and fun experience for me,” said of the Month certificate from Jautel.

While employed here I Anthony Baker have been able to interact, meet, and give services to people who come from all over. I think of this experience as a stepping stone that will give you a positive mind frame on all you accomplish and have yet to accomplish. Also the confidence and encouragement that is shown to us by Mr. Baker (Anthony Baker, Director of Operations) means a lot and is very much appreciated at the end of each and every day. He is a fair yet firm boss, which makes working with the public as well as the people who make up the 125th Street BID something you can be proud of.”

Meet Cisse Moustapha r. Moustapha has been working at the BID M since 2000 as a maintenance man. He says “I have 10 years experience and don’t have a problem at all doing my job. I love my job and never have a problem with anyone. As a maintenance man I feel like I’m a part of keeping the city clean and healthy. This is a job I love to do.”

Ambassadors

Our ambassadors are the eyes and ears of 125th Street. The program, created in collaboration with the service provider, The McRoberts Security Company, provides four workers who patrol the five block area on foot giving directions, answering questions, providing crime prevention services, giving assistance and reporting unsafe street conditions and tracking the issue until it is resolved. We are committed and we are persistent.

We are your personal connection to the 125th Street corridor. The 125th Street BID private/public partnership with New York City’s Police and Sanitation Department aids greatly in keeping our District clean and safe.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Board Vincent Morgan Chairman Jeffrey Brooker Vice-Chairman Lisa Tucker Secretary Blondel Pinnock Treasurer Jonathan Hatcher Asst. Treasurer

CLASS “A”PROPERTY OWNERS Ross Jacob Cogswell Realty Group LLC David Gmach Consolidated Edison Roberto Fata & Eugene Fata Fata Organization Jeffrey Brooker Webb & Brooker Drew Greenwalds Grid Properties Jonelle Procope Apollo Theatre Foundation Inc Dr. Joseph Tait Harlem Commonwealth Council Blondel Pinnock Carver Federal Savings Bank

Steve Williams James Simmons Mona Lopez Mark Irgang Leah Abraham

Danforth Development Aarea Property Paartners Showmans Irgang Group

CLASS “B” COMMERCIAL TENANTS Vincent S. Morgan TD Bank Jonathan Hatcher Fishers of Men Curtis Sherrod Hip Hop Culture Center Rajendra Patel Family Pharmacy & Surgical Inc.

CLASS “C” RESIDENTIAL Lisa Tucker 17 West 125th Street Karia Hill

STAFF Barbara Askins President & CEO Anthony Baker Director of Operations Sunshine Bracey Special Projects Iris Dominguez Admin. Asst.

4

CLASS “D” GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS Office of the Mayor Michael Bloomberg Jeremy Waldrup /Rep. Office of the Comptroller John Liu Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer Anthonine Pierre/Rep. City Council Member Inez Dickens Lamar Mayes/Rep.

CLASS “E” NON-VOTING MEMBERS Brett Wright Uptown Magazine Larry English, Esq. Manhattan Community Board # 9 Franc Perry/ Manhattan Community Board #10 Danni Tyson/Rep. Matthew Washington Manhattan Community Board #11 Alexsandra Truglio Aloft Hotels

CONTACT US

212- 662-8999—telephone 212-678-5136—fax e-mail: bid125thst@aol.com website: 125thstreetbid.com The 125th Street BID is a non-profit organization, funded primarily from an additional tax assessment collected from the property owners within the defined boundaries. Organized in compliance with state and city laws, the property and business owners determine the services and programs needed for the district.

IN PERSPECTIVE continued from page 8 IN PERSPECTIVE continued from page 8 “if you love Jesus” abundant life principles suggest our “if you or love Jesus” abundant lifemeasure principles suggest wealth lack thereof is a direct of our faithour or wealth or lack thereof is a direct measure of our faith or worse, God’s love for us. Deadly salvation brings Christ to worse, for us.cost Deadly bringsand Christ the lostGod’s with love the mere of asalvation bowl of soup yes,toa the lost withchurch the mere cost of a bowl ofservitude soup andtoyes, mandatory service—indentured mana mandatory church service—indentured servitude to man and no relationship with the Christ. Deadly salvation and no relationship with the Christ.

Deadly salvation comes with strings and conditions and is never free and comes with strings and conditions andline is never and never about God. Those in the soup know free the drill never about God. Those in the soup line know the drill and go through the motions (false humility mixed with and go through to theget motions mixed with embarrassment) a meal,(false neverhumility permanently changembarrassment) to get a meal, never permanently changing their condition. ingPeople their condition. are desperate, in need of someone or somePeople are desperate, in need of someone something to believe in and more importantly, when or in poverthing to believe in and more importantly, when in poverty or a recession need anything or anyone to feed their ty or a recession need anything or anyone to feed their bellies.

Tivoli Gardens is everywhere (Newark, Congo, bellies.

Tivoli Gardens is everywhere (Newark, Congo, Haiti, and Juárez, Mexico) and there are other Duduses Haiti, and Juárez, Mexico) and there are step other Duduses and organizations waiting to step in and up.

This is and organizations waiting to step in and step up.

This is our time to demonstrate that Jesus is enough all by himour time to demonstrate that Jesus is enough all by himself, but he needs us to consistently and tirelessly share self, but he through needs us deeds to consistently and tirelessly the Gospel not words, without anyshare prethe Gospel through deeds not words, without any prerequisites or demands. “Feed the hungry; clothe the requisites demands.

“Feed the clothe the naked, giveorwater to the thirsty.”

Thehungry; Gospel message of naked, give water to the thirsty.” education, The Gospelhealth message of salvation is about employment, care, salvation is about employment, education, health care, clean water and housing. True salvation is never deadly clean water andfrees housing. and ultimately us. True salvation is never deadly and ultimately frees us.

The path to your first home.

The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers first-time homebuyers: • 30- or 40- year fixed interest rates that are typically below market; • Financing up to 97%; • Flexible underwriting guidelines; • Down payment assistance (higher of $3,000 or 3% of the loan amount or up to $10,000); • No points; • No financing add ons.

For more information, call

1-800-382-HOME (4663) or visit www.nyhomes.org

www.HarlemHomes.com

Celebrating 10 Years Of "Opening Doors To Your Harlem Home!"

Harlem Homes Real Estate Inc. NA NA

The Positive Community Summer 2010 The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

56 Tiemann Place New York, NY 10027 tel: 212-961-1313, ext: 17, fax: 212-961-0906 email: robin@harlemhomes.com www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com Summer 2010 The Positive Community

47

Continued from page 30 L-R: Robert Keller, executive director, National Grid Foundation presented 2009 National Grid Foundation Awards to Elise Boykin and Coyellene Thomas

L­-R: Naa-Shorme Aidoo and Haslee Cameron, Charles E. Inniss Community Builder Award-winners

and knowledge they need to pursue and achieve their life goals. The free program was developed in 1986 in response to a marked lack of supervised afterschool programs in the Museum’s neighborhood. With a 100% college-acceptance rate among graduating seniors, the program has been honored with a prestigious Coming Up Taller Award from the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and received United States Congressional recognition through the Education Brain Trust of the Congressional Black Caucus. Museum Team is supported in part by the U.S. Department of Justice, the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, The Pinkerton Foundation, the National Grid Foundation, Deutsche Bank, the Nissan Foundation, the Verizon Foundation, Bloomberg, the Louis and Arde Bulova Fund, and the Massey Knakal Charitable Foundation.

Everyday heroes

We Serve New York

DC 37 Executive Board Lillian Roberts Veronica Montgomery-Costa Executive Director President Clifford Koppelman Maf Misbah Uddin Secretary Treasurer Oliver Gray, Associate Director

New York City’s largest public employee union with 125,000 members and 50,000 retirees District Council 37, AFSCME, AFL-CIO • 125 Barclay Street, New York, NY 10007 212-815-1000 • www.dc37.net

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Fathers for Our Children

T

he Marion P. Thomas Charter School (MPTCS) honored men of outstanding character at their annual “Fathers For Our Children” Awards Ceremony.

Proceeds from the event, sponsored

by Wachovia and PSE&G, benefited the Marion P. Thomas Charter School Foundation, which provides scholarships for the school’s alumni attending tuition-based high schools and colleges.

L-R: Birdean Clinton, MPTCS Elementary School Principal; Margie Williams, mother of Talib Davis, who received the MPTCS posthumous Angel Award; Vaughn McKoy, president, PSE&G Foundation and honoree Curtis Lawrence, MPTCS Interim Middle School Principal.

L-R: Honoree Richard Vieser, Wachovia Sr. V.P.; Davan Bazil, MPTCS 8th grade graduate and recipient of the Dr. Charles E. Thomas Scholarship and Michele Y. Lee, MPTCS president.

Ms. Lee is executive vice president and regional president of Northeast Community Banking for Wachovia,

NAACP NAACP hosted their 101st national convention in Kansas City, MO with the theme “One Nation One Dream”

L-R: Members of the New Jersey delegation included James E. Harris, president; Deborah Morgan, chair, Community Press/Publicity and Bruce Morgan, president Greater New Brunswick chapter

Let

Co-Sponsor Your Next Event

Call Us Now For Details 973.233.9200 50

The Positive Community Summer 2010

Health Fairs Pastoral & Church Anniversaries Church Conferences & Convocations Men’s, Women’s & Youth Day Events www.thepositivecommunity.com

Honors for Sis. Christine Blackshear Photo: Wali Amin Muhammad

L­­­­­-R: Front row: Mrs. Blackshear's sister, Yvonne Gage; granddaughter Kiana Blackshear; husband, Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear; Honoree First Lady Christine Blackshear; cousin, Beulah Walton Back row: Mrs. Blackshear's sister, Jacqueline Lindermann; cousin, Marvin Walton; brother, Neil Cain; and sister, Rev. Nellie Thornton

www.thepositivecommunity.com

S

ister Christine Blackshear, wife of Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear and First Lady of Greater Zion Hill Baptist Church in Harlem, NY was honored at the Tabernacle for All People on the occasion of her 33rd Appreciation Service.

In the 41 years that she worked as a registered nurse at Hospital for Joint Disease, they too have called her their “first lady” for the prayers and care she provided to the patients and doctors entering the operating rooms for various orthopedic procedures.

Sis. Blackshear is a Sunday school teacher, an evangelist who carries the Word of God to all she meets, a member of the Free Women In Christ, Inc., and a loving mother of three children: Christopher Kevin, Pamela, and Frank Lance.

She is blessed with seven grandchildren.

The celebration was attended by her family, friends and mentees, as well as Congressman Charles Rangel and Councilmember Inez Dickens. Blackshear received a letter of congratulations from Senator Bill Perkins, who was unable to attend.

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Generosity & Hope for Haiti Claudinette Jean lends a helping hand and an open heart to her homeland

BY R. L. WITTER

A

s the media swirled around Wyclef Jean and the possibility that he would announce his candidacy for the office of president of Haiti, I had the pleasure and the opportunity to speak with his wife, Claudinette. While she declined to comment on her husband’s political aspirations or when any formal statement would be made, she was more than willing to tell me about her personal experiences in Haiti since the January earthquake and how her life has changed because of it.

Marie Claudinette Pierre moved from Haiti to New York when she was seven. She joined her parents and siblings as they began a new life in the land of opportunity and the city of dreams. Claudinette worked hard to realize her dreams, first as a pre-med student in college, then as a fashion designer, wife of the world-famous musician, Wyclef Jean, and as a mother. The couple adopted a daughter in 2004. As the years went by, she always knew she would one day return to her homeland, but she could not have imagined the strange new world to which she would return thirty years later. Everyone aspires to come home in a better situation than when they left. For Claudinette Jean it was almost impossible not to.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

When Haiti was rocked by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on January 12, 2010, Hurricane Claudinette blew in right behind it. I liken Claudinette Jean to a hurricane because she is a bundle of energy and a force to be reckoned with. Where the earthquake left death and destruction, Claudinette brought generosity and hope. “Within 24 hours of the earthquake, we headed out to Haiti,” reflects Jean. She and Wyclef didn’t wait to be asked, they didn’t need an invitation. There would be no primping and posing, nor any celebrity demands. Wyclef and Claudinette Jean were going to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty.

Helping the people of Haiti was nothing new for the Jeans. Their Yele Haiti organization was founded in 2004 to do exactly that. For five years prior to the earthquake, they spearheaded a grassroots effort to bring pride,

When Haiti was rocked by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on January 12, 2010, Hurricane Claudinette blew in right behind it. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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respect and a better way of life to the land they both call home. Yele Haiti first provided scholarships and arts education, then after several tropical storms in 2008, emergency relief and food distribution. After the 2010 earthquake, “It changed automatically,” explained Jean from Yele Haiti’s New Jersey collection center. “There is more demand for what is needed in Haiti. It was completely changed overnight as far the size of the need,” she added.

What was once a foundation that provided outreach to an underserved community instantly became a lifeline for a country struggling to survive. No longer were the Jeans concerned with music competitions and dubbed films to entertain the community; their prime objective was now preservation of life. “A lot of the programs that we first started are still in existence, some of them are not,” Jean explained. “So many children died in the earthquake—about one third of them—many of the kids we had given scholarships…” Her voice cracked just slightly with emotion even after six months of hands-on experience and philanthropy. “Yes,” she sighed. “About a third of them passed.”

Claudinette and Wyclef Jean both spent their early lives in Haiti. They were already well aware of the poverty and the need there for help. “So many people—at least 90 percent—have been suffering for a long time,” said Jean of the country prior to the earthquake. “Before the earthquake it was already very bad; after the earthquake it was even worse. It touched every class and left everybody with the same means. They’re so used to being such a bunch of hard workers individually… It’s been hard from day one. But yet, there’s still hope. There’s still great spirit.”

Helping the people of Haiti was nothing new for the Jeans. Their Yele Haiti organization was founded in 2004 to do exactly that. For five years prior to the earthquake, they spearheaded a grassroots effort to bring pride, respect and a better way of life to the land they both call home.

It is that spirit that prompted Claudinette Jean to turn her South Orange custom furniture shop into a collection center for donations. “I went to all the different local mayors, fire departments and the communities,” explained Jean. “I gave speeches at events to make sure the donations don’t stop. We went to hospitals for medical supplies, hotels for bed sheets, and people donated by texting 501501 and going to yele.org.”

Jean and her team of volunteers sort through and organize all donations before packing bags and boxes to be shipped to Haiti. “They need everything,” she said over the sound of cans clinking nearby. “When their homes collapsed they lost everything. We need batteries, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shoes, clothing, candles— things we take for granted here. You have 1.6 million people living in tents there.” About the only things available in abundance in Haiti are hope and faith, things that have always sustained the Haitian people. “After the earthquake first hit, there was nothing but the churches’ doors open. You could hear people singing from the streets; you could hear them praying.” Like an answer to those prayers, Jean travels to Haiti about every two weeks with containers full of much needed supplies.

Despite her dedication and unrelenting drive to make a difference, the work has taken its toll on her. She’ll never forget the sights and sounds of the aftermath of the great quake. “This is the worst thing I’ve ever experienced in my whole life,” Jean revealed. “I’ve never seen so many dead bodies…I will never forget it as long as I live… What happened has totally changed me. There were so many things that used to be so important to me, but not any longer. I know that the most important things in life are family, knowledge and wisdom—things continued on next page

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Wyclef and Claudinette at the NAACP Awards

CLAUDINETTE JEAN continued from previous page

nobody can take away from you . . . I saw children sitting with their dead relatives—orphans crying . . . women were being raped at night and kids were being stolen.

But people do look out for each other and take turns to sleep and watch over them. There is a phrase, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ It has always been that way in Haiti and it will continue.”

As the days and weeks have become six months, Claudinette Jean soldiers on to keep the Haitian relief effort in the media and on people’s minds. “We’re still in need for just about anything you can think of,” she opined. “We need medicine and contractors or just people who can build.” When she’s not handing out food and clothing, she can be found visiting with children or even planting trees. “I was always humble, but now I am more humble,” she said quietly. “I have always prayed, but now I pray more.” She knows that Haiti has a long journey ahead to rebuild and is ready to stay the course.

“It has slowed down after six months, but I keep saying

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

‘It’s not over, it’s just the beginning.’ There is so much work to do and so much people still need.” I thanked Mrs. Jean for her time as well as her compassion and efforts to help Haiti. Without missing a beat she replied, “I have no other choice.”

The Yele Haiti Donation Center is located at 2 West South Orange Ave., South Orange, NJ; you can also call 973.378.3330. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to continue to give any and everything they can to help the people of Haiti. Canned food, bottled water, medical supplies, batteries, flashlights, linens, toiletries and almost anything else you can think of are needed. With September coming and school starting, school supplies are needed as well. Please donate pens, pencils, notebooks, paper, erasers and any other supplies for the children. The schools may have been destroyed by the earthquake, but the desire to learn is still present and while bricks and mortar are nice, they are not necessary. Love, hope, kindness, generosity and supplies are.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

McDonald's Owner Operator

Ron J. Bailey R.J.B. Foods Inc.

s e t a r b e l e C m e l r Ha k e Committed to Harlem e W Committed to Quality Service

Committed to Progress

Uptown Manhattan Locations

Broadway & 125th St.

Nicholas Avenue & 125th St.

Adam Clayton Powell & 125th St.

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Adam Clayton Powell & 139th St.

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Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Culture M U S I C ,

A R T

&

L I T E R AT U R E

Means Summer

in the

City

By R.L. Witter

ummer just wouldn’t be summer in Harlem without the Jazzmobile! The sounds are unmistakable and the float has been a welcome sight for more than 45 years in and around the uptown area; it is truly a Harlem institution. This summer will be no exception as the storied Jazzmobile is fueled up and ready to travel the busy thoroughfares bringing the gift and joy of jazz to all within earshot.

“People look forward to having a wonderful concert to go to throughout the summer,” explained Robin Bell-Stevens, CEO and executive director of Jazzmobile. “The quality of Robin the music and the performers themBellStevens selves certainly do add to it. Over the years, it has become sort of an icon so if it’s Wednesday in July and August and you are in Harlem, you know you’re heading over to Grant’s tomb.”

For more than 45 years now, Harlem and the NY/NJ

S

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

area have been embracing and enjoying the sights and sounds of Jazzmobile. Founded in 1964 by Dr. William “Billy” Taylor, Jazzmobile has become one of the premiere jazz institutions in the country. While the summer concerts may be the calling card that sparks name recognition and sets toes a-tapping, Jazzmobile offers a yearround curriculum of jazz education, featuring workshops and master classes open to people of all ages. “Our signature education program is the Saturday Jazz Workshops which is currently a 16-week program that begins in continued on next page

For more than 45 years now, Harlem and the New York/New Jersey area have been embracing and enjoying the sights and sounds of Jazzmobile. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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JAZZMOBILE continued from previous page

November and ends in March with a concert given by our students and teachers,” Bell-Stevens said proudly. She continued, “We have the lecture-demonstration programming that Billy Taylor and Daphne Arnstein started back in 1965. It has become the model for other similar programs by other art institutions that focus on jazz education, but at the time when Billy came up with this curriculum, there was no one else doing it so it was the first curriculum ever created for that.”

Continuing to innovate, Jazzmobile forges ahead with new and exciting programs in its multi-faceted approach to jazz and arts education. An annual jazz vocal competition has become a huge hit. Vocalists vie for the coveted title of the year’s best jazz vocalist and are judged by a panel of judges that includes Jazzmobile founder, Dr. Billy Taylor. “We started with about 100 singers competing,” explained Bell-Stevens. “We partner with the Harlem school of the Arts to hold these auditions and we’ve narrowed it down to nine singers who are all extremely talented.” A new tradition has also been started where winners from previous years are added to the judges’ panel, so there’s more than just bragging rights at stake. “We also use the competition to bring new artists to perform on the float and in concerts that we do,” BellStevens explained.

Another newer program at Jazzmobile features residencies with some of the artists, most recently a 10-week residency partnering with other cultural and educational institutions to feature Yosvany Terry, an Afro-Cuban artist.

Bell-Stevens was also excited about having recently commissioned “Wycliffe Gordon, a phenomenal jazz trombonist composer arranger bandleader to write new music for Oscar Michaux’ silent film, Beyond the Gates. An additional feature recently added to the Jazzmobile umbrella is a booking and talent agency. People, businesses and organizations can now hire jazz musicians through Jazzmobile to do lectures and performances for a reasonable price and a guaranteed good time. Just imagine your guests’ delight at your next cocktail party, wedding or Christmas party!

Of course, providing legendary entertainment and extraordinary educational opportunities throughout the year and the New York area comes at a price. While 98 percent of Jazzmobile programming is free to the public,

Throughout the summer, Jazzmobile will be swinging and the crowds will be swaying Wednesdays at Grant’s Tomb and on Fridays in Jackie Robinson Park.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

Drummer Winard Harper

Jean Merine

operating costs are not and Jazzmobile has unfortunately felt the sting of the current financial crunch.

Choosing to remain optimistic and continue to move forward, Bell-Stevens declared, “Funding permitting, we’ll bring back two programs that were funded last year by the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, our Winter Fest and in April, a jazz vocal showcase.” To help gather financial support, Jazzmobile recently launched a campaign by which people can donate $10 via text message, and also accepts donations through their website, www.jazzmobile.org.

Throughout the summer, Jazzmobile will be swinging and the crowds will be swaying Wednesdays at Grant’s Tomb and on Fridays in Jackie Robinson Park. The kids have the ice cream truck and a popsicle to be cool this summer, and we have the Jazzmobile… I think we definitely got the better part of that deal.

Upcoming Special Issue!

September Positive Community 10th Anniversary Issue Tribute to Medgar Evers College 40th Year

To Advertise Call: 973-233-9200 or Email: Positive.corp@verizon.net for rates & deadlines

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Harlem Chamber Remembers Percy Sutton Positive Community Honored for Outstanding Business Achievemnent

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L–R: Assemblyman Keith Wright, Keisha Sutton (granddaughter of Percy Sutton); Hon. David N. Dinkins; Mayor Michael Bloomberg; NYS Governor David A. Paterson

O

n July 15th, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in association with The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) recently hosted a Lawn Party and Reception to kick-off the 2010 Harlem Week Festival. The event, which took place at the Mayor’s official residence, welcomed a capacity turnout, featuring a who’s who in business government and community service.

This year’s Harlem Week tribute honored the memory of the Hon. Percy E. Sutton. Harlem was Percy Sutton’s home as a resident, lawyer, elected official, civic and business leader. He was one of Harlem’s most beloved citizens.

Thirty-six years ago, the GHCC at the request of then Manhattan Borough President Percy E. Sutton and Harlem business, political, civic and religious leaders created Harlem Day, which started as a one day celebration and has since developed and grown to become “Harlem Week.” Harlem Week is now the largest annual cultural festival in the Northeast, attracting over 3,000,000 visitors from this area and beyond.

This year’s festival runs from July 15th thru August 30.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

The Positive Community was also honored as The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce 2010 Outstanding Business Achievement Award Recipient in recognition of the magazine’s 10th anniversary. In the arts, the 2010 Tony Award wining musical Fela! was inducted into Harlem Week’s 2010 National Black Sports & Entertainment Hall of Fame Class of 2010.

Harlem Week also awarded scholarships/internships presented by JP Morgan Chase, American Airlines, Emblem Health and Heineken.

Harlem Week 2010 key public events include: “Family Unity Day,” “A Concert Under the Stars,” “Summer in the City,” “Uptown Saturday Nite,” HARLEM DAY, NYC Children’s Festival Salute to the Children of Haiti, NYC Health Village, Upper Manhattan Auto Show National Black College Fair and Expo, HARLEM WEEK Tri State Tennis Classic, the Golden Hoops H.S. Basketball, the NY Family Health Walk saluting the Children of Haiti, Percy Sutton Harlem 5kRun and numerous sports, cultural events and activities. For more information, visit their website at www.harlemdiscover.com or call 212-862-8477. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Hubert Williams

Candidate for Congress, Vincent Morgan, VP TD Bank and his wife, filmmaker Shola Lynch

L–R: Cephas Bowles, president and CEO WBGO Jazz 88; and Hon. Keith Wright

National Jazz Museum Board chair, Arthur Barnes; Steven and Ruth Hendel, producers of Fela!; Broadway League’s Charlotte St. Martin; Mike Woods, FOX 5 weatherman and Voza Rivers, Harlem Week 1st vice chairman

William (Tony) Rogers, GHCC; Joyce Dinkins and Marci McCall, Emblem Health

Deon Levingston, general manager WLIB/ WBLS with Tiffeny Forrest, executive director Harlem YMCA; Photo: Wali Amin Muhammad

Manhattan DA Sy Vance, Adrian A. Council, Sr., publisher, The Positive Community (TPC), Jean Nash Wells, editor-inchief, TPC, Kim Jasmin, JP Morgan Chase and Hon. Keith Wright, NYS Assemblyman, Harlem

NYC Councilwoman Inez Dickens (white pants) surrounded by friends and supporters

L–R: Angela Ridenour, TPC; Michael Garner, chief diversity officer, MTA; Faith Jackson, TPC

www.thepositivecommunity.com

GHCC President/CEO Lloyd Williams presents portrait to former Mayor Dinkins

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Juneteenth L-R: Students from Newark’s St. Benedict Prep, NJ Attorney General Paula Dow, Gov. Christie; NJ State Sen. Sandra Cunningham and Mark Larkins, president NJSDA

N

ew Jersey Governor Chris Christie issued a proclamation in recognition of Juneteenth ( June 19). The observance commemorates the date that the Union soldiers, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the enslaved were now free-- two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which had become official January 1, 1863.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

L-R: Fantasia with Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, pastor, St. Matthew AME Church.

E

xcellent Education for Everyone (E3) presented a concert featuring American Idol-winner Fantasia, Rapper Kurtis Blow on June 26 in Newark’s Washington Square Park. Over 1,500 fans turned out to help E3 in its Celebs for School Choice campaign to educate parents and gain their support for the Opportunity Scholarship Act. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

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The PosiTive CommuniTy

Birdel’s Harlem Top10 Songs Rank

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Harlem

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Harlem Nocturne Viscounts & Earl Bostic

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Harlem River Drive

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Harlem Shuffle

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Harlem Blues

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Spanish Harlem

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Harlem Blues

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Harlem Serenade George & Ira Gershwin

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Harlem in Harlem

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Bill Withers

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Summer 2010 The Positive Community

63

Crowd cheers on at the Prudential Arena

Gospel Music Triumphs in Newark Gospel Music Month and Gospelfest cover the city in June by g.r. mattox

J

une was bursting out all over in Newark with the sound and spirit of gospel music during annual Gospel Music Month celebrations, which kicked off in the city council chambers.

Gospel music enthusiasts from surrounding areas flocked to the Weequahic Branch Public Library for several events, including a luncheon where about 100 seniors were inspired by the praise dancing delivered by The High Class Theatre Group of Orange, NJ; a Youth Festival, and a special showing of a segment of the film Pioneers of Gospel Music, The film chronicled the three day gathering in which over 200 gospel music writers, musicians and singers performed and celebrated the music they helped build.

“I was the very first in the country to play this video on television,” said gospel music choirmaster, radio and cable television personality, gospel impresario, and founding father of Gospel Music Month, Dr. Albert J. Lewis. “It’s an historic document and to see these people sing and feel the spirit in that room has always been an awesome experience.”

Having seen the film for the first time, Newark Council President Mildred Crump was among those who were moved by the screen performance,. “This takes me back,”

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Regina Belle L–R: Rev. John Gamble, pastor Smyrna B.C.and Rev. Joe Carter, pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ.

L–R: LennAsia Harvey, NJ State Winner Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens with the legendary Cissy Houston www.thepositivecommunity.com

Gospel Music Month

Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad

L–R: Pete Samaha, McDonald’s Owner/Operator (O/O); Paul Hendel, president Tri-state McDonald’s O/O Assoc.; William Holder, president NY/ NJ Black McDonald’s O/O Assoc.

L–R: Gospel fest producer, Curtis Farrow; Brenda Blackmon, anchor MY9 News; Newark Mayor Cory Booker

L–R: Curtis Farrow MC's with Toya Beasley, 98.7 KissFM

L–R: Bishop T.D. Jakes and Rev. Dr. William L. Watley, pastor St. James AME, Newark

L–R: Glenda Mattox, The Positive Community; Barry Carter, Star Ledger and Kaylyn Dines, UMDNJ

www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Newark City Council President Mildred Crump; Dr. Albert Lewis, founder Gospel Music Month and Delores Moses, Weequahic Branch Library

she said “I come from traditional gospel; it was, is and always will be my favorite presentation of holy music. It’s a major example of the black church experience.”

Delores Moses, branch manager and supervising librarian noted that the Weequahic Branch Library has hosted Gospel Music Month events for 12 years. She also applauded Dr. Lewis’ great vision in his work to advance the genre while still making it a community event. “This celebration exposes you to the origins, the roots of gospel music,” she said.

McDonald’s Gospelfest Lewis was one of the judges for McDonald’s Gospelfest, a truly extravagant display of phenomenal talent both competitive and professional, lasting eight hours, produced by A. Curtis Farrow and his team, Irving Street Rep,. Seventy-nine competing acts hit the stage at Newark’s Prudential Center with two minutes to give it their best. All of the performances were stellar, but 14 acts came out on top taking first place in their categories.

Started in 1983 by McDonald’s Tri-State Owners' Association and the McDonald’s Corporation, the competition was designed to showcase local talent, but this year Gospelfest went international with a choir from Quebec, Canada winning the Out-Of-Town Choir category and the Harlem Japanese Gospel Choir taking first place for Best Choir. The competition was followed by stirring performances by a who’s who in gospel music including hometown favorites cousins Cissy Houston and Dionne Warwick along with Hezekiah Walker, Vickie Winans, Kurt Carr, Regina Belle, J. Moss, Keith “Wonderboy” Johnson and Roberta Flack.

Between the competition and the evening performance Bishop T.D. Jakes delivered an inspirational message.

Brenda Blackmon of My9 News has been co-hosting McDonald’s Gospelfest with Farrow. Commenting on the positive results of the concert, she noted, “McDonald’s does so much for scholarships; I think people forget about that.”

During the final moments of an almost flawless show Farrow reflected on his more than 10 years producing McDonald’s Gospelfest and how it got this far: “A lot of prayer and a lot of faith,” he said. “I’ve realized that there’s no one we can’t get and nothing we can’t do. I love everybody for it; it’s been a marvelous day and to God be the glory.”

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Gospel Game Lounge Debuts TONS of Fun!

T

he Gospel Game Lounge is a monthly Christian social networking event that encourages fellowship outside of the church in a comfortable environment featuring games, the best gospel music, a signature non-alcoholic bar, gourmet concessions, prizes and more.

The Game Lounge takes place at the Crossroads

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

Theater in New Brunswick, NJ every second Friday through September from 8-12PM Reserve your tickets for the Gospel Game Night of Christian fun, Friday, September 10, or visit Gospel Game Lounge.com, brought to you by BlackNJ.com, sponsored by thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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By I Don’t Know Who

Exhibit draws record numbers and new audiences at Montclair Art Museum

BY JEAN NASH WELLS

A

1920s through l940s. Among the artists in the exhibition are Elizabeth Catlett, Eldzier Cortor, Aaron Douglas, Jacob Lawrence, Gordon Parks, Marion Perkins, Rose Piper, Augusta Savage and Charles White.

Over 5,800 people attended tours for A Force for Change, including many who had never visited the Museum or had not done so recently. That tour number is the second highest in MAM’s history, after the 6,700 who attended tours for its recent Cézanne and American Modernism show, which was by far the most popular exhibition ever. Overall—tours, general admission, and special events—Force for Change attracted over 12,000 people as of June 30, with still month to go.

On Sunday July 25, when the exhibition closed, The Bibliophiles, Inc.—an African-American reading group— held a book club meeting at the Museum to discuss Zora Neale Hurston’s seminal work Their Eyes Were Watching God, a fitting program since Miss Hurston was one of the of many writers who were also aided by the Julius Rosenwald Fund. The free event which was open to the public, also included a celebration of the culmination of A Force for Change, a tour of the exhibition.

Approximately 70 works by African American artists are part of MAM’s permanent collection. The Museum is seeking grants for funding to document and highlight these artists and their works. For more information on current MAM exhibitions visit: www.montclairartmuseum.org.

L-R: Mary Jones of Tenafly, Mumtaz Bari-Brown of West Orange, and Dwight & Janice Carter of South Orange

L-R: Diane Bundy of West Orange, Leanora Logan of Glen Ridge, program coordinator for the North Jersey Links and Joyce Harley of West Orange

pproximately 100 members of The New Jersey Cluster Links chapters—North Jersey, Essex County, Morris County, Bergen County, and Raritan Valley— came together at the Montclair Art Museum (MAM) for a docent-guided tour of the exhibition, A Force for Change: African American Art and the Julius Rosenwald Fund. The tour was followed by a reception hosted by MAM. The event furthered the Links’ goals for the arts: to support and celebrate existing artists and to inspire, nurture, and encourage creative development. The Links, Incorporated, founded in 1946, is a volunteer community service organization made up of women of color focused on aiding individuals of African descent.

The Links’ visit to the Museum was one of several by African American organizations that have been welcomed into the Museum for special viewings of the groundbreaking exhibit, furthering the Museum’s diversity initiative, which is made possible by the Funding by the New Jersey State Council of the Arts Building Arts Participation program.

MAM had previously presented a solo exhibition of the work of the celebrated African American and New Jersey artist Willie Cole, Anxious Objects: Willie Cole’s Favorite Brands.

Cole’s work is found in private and public collections and in museums around the world.

A Force for Change explores a watershed period for the advancement of African American art and culture—the late

L-R: Paulette Stanford, Alfleda Jenifer of Cedar Grove, and Eva Vincent of Washington Township

L-R: Robin Pitts of West Orange and Peggy Huddleston of Brown’s Mills with Keith Green, executive director of United Way of Essex & West Hudson All photos by Tony Graves.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

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Summer 2010 The Positive Community

69

Don Bernard, Sr., Chairman and CEO of the AAHPC

US Navy Band makes first visit to Newark in honor of Master Chief Carl M. Brashear

Everybody Loves a PARADE! NJ African American Heritage Parade Committee Plays Host to Thousands on Memorial Day Weekend in Newark

L–R: Mayor Sharon Robinson-Briggs, Plainfield and Mayor Wayne Smith, Irvington

Groups from Wachovia and NJEA added to the festivities

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Historic Stanley Theatre Restoration Gala & 10th Anniversary Tribute to Dr. Aubrey L. & Lady Elizabeth Gregory, Senior Pastor of The Newark Gospel Tabernacle

Rebuilding, Renewing, Restoring Our Community Friday October 15 • 6:30 PM at THE MEZZANINE • 744 Broad St. Newark, NJ Platinum Table - $1,500.00

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For more information: Mon—FRI 9AM—4PM 985 South Orange Ave (corner Stuyvesant Ave) Newark, NJ 07106 Tel: 973 399 –2507 E-mail: ngt@newarktab.org Web: newarktab.org

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Mayor Hawkins Soars at Orange Jazz Fest Joins Musicians to Play Saxophone.

M

Mayor Hawkins with jazz musicians Cecil Brooks and Anthony Nelson

ayor Eldridge Hawkins Jr. surprised the audience on Saturday, July 3 when he joined jazz greats Cecil Brooks and Anthony Nelson on stage during the Orange Jazz Fest to play “Mr. Magic” by Grover Washington, Jr. After delivering a brief speech welcoming guests, thanking those who made the festival possible, and discussing the importance of the arts to the future of Orange, Hawkins was called back to the stage by Cecil Brooks, renowned drummer and owner of Cecil’s Jazz Club in West Orange. After Brooks’ exclamation, “You can’t leave yet. You’ve got to play ‘Mr. Magic!’” the crowd shouted for Mayor Hawkins to join Brooks and Anthony Nelson on tenor sax in a trio to play the jazz classic. Hawkins obliged and the three performed in front of a cheering audience.

After the performance, someone requested that Mayor Hawkins sing. The Mayor turned down that request explaining that while he loves to give speeches and plays the sax, he won’t sing because he still hopes to be re-elected.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Darryl Hall

47th Anniversary

L–R: Raiford Wheeler Jr., Sheretta Wheeler, First Lady Maxine and Rev. Raiford Wheeler.

25th Anniversary

R

ev. Raiford Wheeler, recently observed his 25th anniversary as pastor of Park Avenue Christian Church in East Orange, NJ. A gala celebration was held at the B.F. Johnson Community Center, a full service banquet facility located at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark. Friends and congregation came out en masse to honor Rev. Wheeler who is treasurer of the Black Ministers Council of NJ.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Vincent Bryant

The Wheeler family

Rev. Grady James, First Lady Sharon James and Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell

R

ev. and Mrs. Grady James and the First Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Newark, NJ celebrated their 47th Church anniversary with a banquet at Galloping Hill Caterers, Union, NJ. The church has been blessed with a building in Irvington, NJ, which will be their new location.

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Health P r e v e n t i o n , T r e a tm e n t & Cu r e

Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

T

he Congressional Black Caucus Foundation came to Newark recently to unveil its Spirit of Healthy Living Program.

Metropolitan Baptist Church’s Willing Heart Community Care Center was the site for the free Wellness and Diabetes Day. It was a very well attended event that featured empowering health sessions, free health screenings, online health counseling, interactive fitness and

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

cooking demos, fun activities for young people, exhibitors, giveaways and much more Spirit of Healthy Living (SoHL) is a diabetes awareness program designed to support church-based health ministries in their efforts to improve congregants’ knowledge of chronic disease, health-promoting behaviors and health care resources. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation created SoHL

to encourage the implementation of diabetes education programs in faith-based settings with predominately African-American memberships. In 2010, Spirit of Healthy Living will be presented in three U.S. cities including Newark, NJ. Thanks to funding from Johnson & Johnson and a national partnership with the American Diabetes Association. The Positive Community magazine was the media partner.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Anthony Carter, chief Diversity officer, Johnson & Johnson; Rev. David Jefferson; Rep. Donald Payne, Chair Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF); Elise L. Cot, Ph.D, president/CEO CBCF Arlene Gibbs, Metropolitan B.C. and Roslyn Council, NJ Dept. of Health & Senior Services Photos: Darryl Hall

Adrian Council Jr.; Adrienne Byers, aide to Rep. Donald Payne Rev. Dr. David Jefferson Sr. Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark, host pastor

Mistress of ceremonies Caryl Lucas, author, coach and motivational speaker

L–R: Trainer Mocha Lee of Fitness Fanatics with Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, the “Fitness Doctor”

Antoinette EllisWilliams, Ph.D. New Jersey City University

L–R: Pam Cooper, American Diabetes Assoc., event sponsor; Aviva Irvin, Healthfirst Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

Health Expo

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Calvary Launches Daisy Award for Excellence In Nursing

A

nne Marie Mingot, received the Calvary Hospital’s first DAISY Award in honor of her excellence as a nurse. Calvary has recently partnered with the DAISY Foundation to honor excellence on its nursing staff.

A native of Haiti, Anne Marie immigrated to the U.S. in 1982. She started at Calvary in 1986 as a nurse’s aide and ultimately became a Cancer Care Technician. During her 24-year tenure, Anne Marie became a nurse with the Hospital’s support, obtaining her associate’s degree in nursing from Iona College and then a bachelor’s degree in nursing from The College of New Rochelle.

DAISY (www.daisyfoundation.org) is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. One of the organization’s goals is to honor nurses who make an enormous difference in the lives of people they touch every single day.

Calvary Hospital is the nation’s only fully accredited acute care specialty hospital devoted exclusively to providing palliative care to adult advanced cancer patients..

To learn more or sign up for the e-newsletter, Calvary Life, please go to www.calvaryhospital.org.

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

Queens Resident Honored as Hospital’s First Honoree

L–R: Richard J. Kutilek, COO; Lucy Hernandez, MS, NP, Nursing Patient Service manager; Anne Marie Mingot, honoree; Michael E. Impollonia, RN, MSN, NE-BC, director of Nursing Services; and Sally Umbro, MS, RN, VP, Patient Hospital Services.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Verona Greenland Honored Legacy Award presented at Morris Heights Health Center’s Gala

T

he Morris Heights Health Center, marked 30 years of service and partnership in health to its Bronx communities, at its 2010 Annual Benefit Gala at the Marina Del Rey in The Bronx. MHHC founder, president and CEO, Ms. Verona Greenland was honored as the organization’s first ever Legacy Award recipient.

Active in local and national organizations, Ms. Greenland has received accolades for her outstanding service including the Leadership Award from the New York Association of Ambulatory Care (NYAAC), a citation from the Bronx Borough President and the Paul Ramos award from CHCANYS. She serves on numerous boards and committees such as the Schuyler Center for Analysis & Advocacy Committee on Infant Mortality (SACIM); Affinity Health Plan Board of Directors; and the Bronx Regional Health Information Organization (RHIO), to name a few.

MHHC paid tribute to and celebrated Ms. Greenland’s 32 years of exemplary service, respected leadership, unwavering dedication and distinctive contributions to Bronx residents of all ages and to the greater New York health care community. www.mhhc.org.

“

Photo: John Vecchiolla

L­-R: :Dr. Marcia Keizs, vice chair, MHHC Board of Directors and president of York College; Verona Greenland, MHHC founder, president and CEO; and her son Joseph Pinion.

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Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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JOHN M. PALMER Ph.D. ASK DOCTOR PALMER

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

Harlem Healthy Living Dear Dr. Palmer I live in Harlem and as I look around the community, there seems to be a higher number of Blacks and Latinos who are overweight, compared to other nationalities. Am I imagining this or is it true? And if it is true, what are we doing about it?

—Signed, Let’s Get Healthy, say one thing and end up doing another Dear Let’s Get Healthy: This is not your imagination, in fact, nationwide, African American women have the highest rates of being overweight compared to other groups. It has been estimated that three out four African American women are overweight or obese.

The obesity problem in our community is not just limited to adults.

As you look around, you will notice that a greater number of children are either overweight or obese.

More than 42 percent of children in East and Central Harlem are either obese or overweight.

Being overweight or obese is unhealthy at any age. While some consequences of obesity occur only in adulthood, children too, are affected. For instance, children increasingly are developing type 2 diabetes, once diagnosed almost exclusively in adults. The obesity problem in Harlem is part of an epidemic affecting Manhattan, New York City, and the nation.

Two years ago, The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce put a program in place to help the Harlem Community deal with the

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The Positive Community Summer 2010

obesity epidemic by taking better care of ourselves. The program is called the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative.

This year, the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative has sponsored a lecture series on health topics, provided experts to appear on radio broadcasts, put together teams to participate in health walks and runs, sponsored community health fairs, hosted health screenings throughout the Harlem Community, and held Town Hall meetings to help the community deal with the health issues that concern us.

The Harlem Healthy Living Initiative has also sponsored events that bring opportunities for exercise to the Harlem Community.

You may have heard about the

Walk It Out! Family Walk & Run for the Village of Harlem on Sunday, August 1, 2010 from 12:00PM to 3:00PM. This special event was hosted by Harlem Hospital Center at Riverbank State Park, and was free and open to the public. The Walk It Out! Family Walk & Run was cosponsored by the Healthy Heart Program of the NYS Department of Health, New York Road Runners, AARP, the Abyssinian Development Corporation, the Central Harlem Health Revival, and the Association of Black Cardiologists. The Walk It Out! Family Walk & Run was a formal introduction of the Walk It Out! Program at Harlem Hospital Center.

The Walk It Out! Initiative is an exercise and activity program for Harlem’s senior citizens.

Every week at Harlem Hospital Center, The Equinox Fitness Club offers classes that are free and open to the public. Now through September 6 on Wednesday at 6:00 p.m., we offer a free kickboxing class and on Fridays we offer a Zumba Class. These are high energy workouts and we have everyone from teenagers to seniors participating.

There is also the Harlem Hospital Center Sports and Activity Camp for young people aged 7 through 14 years old. The Camp meets from 11:00–2:00 p.m. every Saturday at PS 175, at 175 West 134th Street between Lenox and Seventh Avenues. Activities include dodgeball, soccer, volleyball, basketball, continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

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ON CALL continued from previous page

football, and double dutch jump rope. The goal of the camp is to encourage our children to be physically active while at the same time improving their health now, and as they grow. The program is free of charge and open to the public.

Another example of a Harlem Healthy Living event is the New York City Senior Citizens Day Elder’s Jubilee.

The event will be held on August 10th from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Adam C. Powell State Office Building on 125th Street, corner of Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard.

On August 14, 2010, there will be a New York City Children’s Festival on West 135th Street between Lenox and St. Nicholas Avenues.

A big part of The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce’s HARLEMWEEK event is The Harlem Health Village on August 15, 2010, between 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., located on 135th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues. Hundreds of people attend this event every year to get their blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol checked, participate in dental, nutrition, and asthma education.

One of New York City’s most successful exercise events—The New York Family Health Walk-A-Thon and Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run is part of the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative. This partnership with the New York City Road Runners Club is one the Harlem Community’s more eagerly anticipated events and is attended by hundreds of people from across the City.

Radio Station WBLS has taken the lead as a partner in the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative and has helped us spread the message of healing and hope throughout the Harlem Community. This radio station used its’ public platform to help us share health information to educate the Harlem Community and their support is an important factor in our ability to establish a strong base of community support for the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative.

Another partner in the Harlem Healthy Living Initiative is Dr. Robert Woodbine. Dr. Woodbine frequently leads a Saturday morning exercise class in the community and through his Strategies for Optimum Wellness, he incorporates all of his training to help people develop effective health and lifestyle strategies that optimize well-being and promote self-sufficiency. For more information, visit www.harlemdiscover.com/relievethestress.

For more information about Harlem Healthy Living and to get a complete schedule of events, visit the website at www.harlemhealthyliving.com.

You will find many events that encourage healthy eating and exercise. We invite you to join us, talk with our health professionals and learn more about how you and your family can stay healthy, be healthy, and live healthy.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Harlem Healthy Living Events August 1 • 12:00 noon–3:00 p.m.

Walk It Out! Family Walk & Run for the Village of Harlem Riverbank State Park Free and Open to the Public Sports Activity Camp for Children aged 7–14 Saturdays from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

PS 175, 134th Street Between Lenox and Seventh Avenues 646-938-4576 Deneen Windley.

Combines sports activity with healthy eating and nutrition, free and open to the public.

Now through September 6 Shape Up NYC Fitness classes at Harlem hospital Center Equinox Fitness Instructors 8 week cycle of Kickboxing on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m.

8 week cycle of Zumba on Fridays at 6Z:00 p.m.

Classes are free and open to the public For more information call 212-939-4239 August 5 • 9 am–4 pm NYC Economic Development Conference Columbia University, Alfred Lerner Hall 115th Street & Broadway harlemweek.com/key_events/nyc_awards.htm August 7 • 9:30 am–11:30 am Relieve the Stress Morning Exercise Location to be announced www.harlemdiscover.com/relievethestress Robert Woodbine August 10 • 10 am–3 pm NY City Senior Citizens Day: Elder’s Jubilee Adam C. Powell State Office Building 163 West 125th Street http://harlemweek.com/key_events/elders_jubilee.htm Naomi Griffin • 212-939-1324 • Naomi.Griffin@nychhc.org August 12 Harlem Health Expo Day—WHCR.FM 90.3 Tune into WHCR FM 90.3 on your FM Dial or Log onto www.whcr.org Naomi Griffin • 212-939-1324 • Naomi.Griffin@nychhc.org August 14 • 9:30 am–11:30 am Relieve the Stress Morning Exercise Location to be announced www.harlemdiscover.com/relievethestress Robert Woodbine August 14 NY City Children’s Festival West 135th Street between Malcolm X Blvd. & St. Nicholas Avenue http://harlemweek.com/key_events/childrens_festival.htm August 15 • 9:30 am–11:30 am Relieve the Stress Morning Exercise For more info visit: www.harlemdiscover.com/relievethestress Robert Woodbine August 15 • 9 am–7 pm Harlem Health Village HHL Focus: Blood pressure, glucose, HIV, Dental, Nutrition, Asthma Harlem Hospital Center 135th Street between Lenox & 5th Avenues www.harlemweek.com/healthvillage10 Naomi Griffin • 212-939-1324 • Naomi.Griffin@nychhc.org August 18 • 11:30 am–1 pm Aging Successfully Lecture Series: Vision and Hearing Harlem Hospital Center 506 Lenox Avenue, MLKP 3rd Floor, Room 3101 Michelle Coombs • 212-939-2291 • mc3342@columbia.edu August 21 New York Family Health Walk-A-Thon & Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run www.harlemweek.com/key_events/walk-a-thon.htm Naomi Griffin • 212-939-1324 • Naomi.Griffin@nychhc.org August 28 • 12 pm–4 pm Community Health Fair HHL Focus: Blood pressure, glucose (cholesterol), HIV Services Thy Will Be Done 165 E. 103rd Street btwn. 3rd Ave & Lexington Lisa Green • 212-939-4317 • Lisa.Green@nychhc.org

Summer 2010 The Positive Community

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Recruiting homes for children Harvest of Hope in need of foster care Family Services Network, Inc.

Believe in Our Children Open Your Hearts And Your Homes

and adoption placement

throughout the state of NJ

630 Franklin Blvd., Somerset, NJ 08873 732-247-1270 1-888-325-HOPE (4673)

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

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KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael is the owner of The Fitness Doctor, Inc., a Personal Training, Consulting and Wellness company.

To contact Kahlil, call 732-921-3746 or visit his website at www.Thefitnessdoctor.com.

Participate in Your Healing e are fully immersed in the summer of 2010 and boy, is it hot!

We have finally made it through the busy time of June and it may seem as if we have all come to a slow crawl as we prepare for, or in some cases, recover from vacations. I pray you enjoyed Independence Day and truly celebrated the blessing of freedom.

Even in challenging economic times it is a blessing to have the opportunity afforded by God to live in this great country where we have the ability to exercise the power of choice to change careers, shift from unproductive thinking, and even live a healthy lifestyle.

I had the opportunity recently to speak at a conference for The Women’s Center at New York Theological Seminary to promote my book, The Fitness Doctor Tips of the Day. I must say I was pleasantly surprised to see that the interfaith community has changed its thinking concerning exercise.

The women, many who have been affected by obesity related illnesses, gave God praise for healing their bodies and bringing them through. But I also helped them realize they had a responsibility to continue the healing process by participating in their healing through exercise and proper nutrition.

Many were willing but did not know how or if what they were doing was correct. No need to worry; I have a plan that will take you through the summer and allow you to enjoy the fresh air of summer, lose weight, eat healthier and participate in your healing. I have already shared with you plans in the previous months to help get you started but if you haven’t already, it may be time to increase the intensity of your workouts. Remember to check with a doctor before beginning any exercise program. You will burn calories and fat at a greater rate and best of all you don’t need ANY extra equipment to do so!

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Here are 5 Tips to rev up your routine: Add Intervals: If you have been walking exclusively it may be time to add intervals of light jogging or running to your

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routine. To grow you must continue to challenge your muscles by changing your routine.

Add plyometrics to your routine: Plyometrics refers to exercises that are done to produce fast and powerful movements through the extension and then contraction of the muscles. The exercises include hops, push-ups with claps in between and vertical jumps. For those who are in better physical condition these movements can take your workouts to the next level.

Go faster: If you are currently walking begin timing yourself and try to complete your course faster. The same applies to jogging or running. Begin by shaving seconds and then minutes off your routine.

Add weight: If you are able to, begin increasing the weight you are using in your current strength training routine. A good rule of thumb is that if you are able to easily complete12–15 repetitions of an exercise you may be able to increase your weight by ½–2 lbs.

Eat well: If you are increasing the intensity of your routines you need to fuel your body with the amount of carbs, fats, and proteins to insure that your muscles are recovering properly and that you have enough energy to insure your best performance. For additional information on healthy eating visit www.thefitnessdoctor.com and look at our online-nutritional planning tool.

FIT COMMUNITY

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od is a healer, but He also allows us to participate in our healing. For more information please visit us at: website www.livewellfaith.com or

follow us on twitter.com/revkahlil or connect at www.facebook.com/itiswellchurch.

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

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Ground Zero Mosque: Digging a Hole in the Soul of America

BY RUSSELL SIMMONS Chairman, The Foundation for Ethnic Understanding

t was a day we will never forget. It was a day that changed the course of this nation forever. It was a day that permanently bruised our hearts, with the potential of healing almost seeming impossible. Yet, with love, faith and compassion, we showed the world and showed ourselves through the promotion of one of our nation’s greatest values—tolerance—we can overcome fear and hate.

Today, ten years later, I peer through the front windows of my apartment and still see a large gaping hole that once was the home to the World Trade Center. I pass by the firehouse on my block and say hello to the firemen who lost almost all of their guys on that day. This is my neighborhood, my backyard. And in my backyard, I have no tolerance for a new fear-mongering, hateful rhetoric that has sprung up over the proposed $100 million Islamic cultural center that they plan on building blocks away from Ground Zero.

It is not insensitive to put a cultural center of any sort, that has a place of worship, anywhere in our city. This is what makes our country and our city great. As a nation that was founded by men and women who were being persecuted for their particular faith, we should know that the best path to finding freedom is finding freedom for others. We were formed as a pluralistic society and this means we welcome all religions. Islam did not attack the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, sick and twisted men did, who not only hijacked four airplanes but also hijacked a religion. Let us not stereotype the over one billion Muslims around the world because of the evil acts of a few. A decision like this one, to support or not support the construction of this center, defines who we are as a nation. It’s at the essence of our values, our freedom of expression, freedom of religion and religious tolerance.

As the Chairman of The Foundation Of Ethnic Understanding, I and my partner, Rabbi Marc Schneier (also the Vice President, World Jewish Congress; Chairman, World Jewish Congress United States) have worked tirelessly to promote dialogue among different ethnic groups all over the world, particularly Jews and Muslims. We have witnessed the power of the fostering of this dialogue. We know that we must fight anti-Semitism and Islamophobia together and at the same time. We welcome and support this cultural center, as it will con-

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tinue constructive conversations around a moderate approach to co-existence between all people, regardless of religious preference. In fact, we strongly feel that this center will bridge the divide that many of our nation’s citizens have with the Islamic faith.

There are moments that define our nation. There are moments that test the strength of our character. There are moments that test the essence of our freedoms. Let this be that moment and let us pass this test with grace and dignity. I will not stand for any sort of Islamophobia in my backyard.

Note: This article first appeared on GlobalGrind.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

God, Country and Ideology s the United States a Christian nation? Were the founding fathers Christian? Yes, according to the Independence Day sermon preached at World Overcomers Outreach Ministries Church in Memphis, TN where I worshipped as a visitor on Sunday, July 4, 2010. As evidence, the preacher listed numerous mentions of “God” and “Christian” by founding fathers, within government documents, and among inscriptions on national monuments.

Usually I hear the “America is a Christian nation” case presented by white Religious Right radio and television personalities. But a black man preached it live at World Overcomers, and it was the most voluminous collection of evidence on the subject that I have yet heard. I have taken steps to obtain the recording of the sermon for further study.

Nonetheless, at this point I find the case unconvincing. My prior study of other sources suggests that the leaders of the American Revolution (1775–1781) were driven more by profit and wealth preservation than by evangelism. Further, they were more typically products of the secular philosophical Enlightenment movement of the 1700s than of the Christianbased Great Awakening movement of the same period.

Additionally, their practices of slave trading and perpetual slavery contradicted God’s will as stated in the Bible as well as the Enlightenment philosophical concept that “all men are created equal.” This suggests that, for the founding fathers, profit and wealth trumped both Christ and philosophy.

Christ said on the Mount, “You cannot serve both God and Money.” (Matthew 6:24, New International Version) Although Puritan founders of Massachusetts, Quaker founders of Pennsylvania, and Catholic founders of Delaware had been religiously motivated during the 17th century, these three colonies constitute fewer than 25% of the 13. And by the early to mid-18th century, much of the Puritan zeal had declined into commercialism among succeeding generations – which is why they needed to be “Awakened.”

Today, in 21st century America, ideology competes with religion (perhaps defeats it) as a prime motivator of human beings. Examples of ideology are conservatism, liberalism, feminism, libertarianism, black nationalism, and PanAfricanism. Conservative ideologues, for example, interpret the world from a base of common values and principles and react to local, national, and world events based on those same

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core values and principles. Adherents to other ideologies interpret and react from their own core values and principles.

Christians should deal with the world primarily from the perspective of God’s word, as recorded in the Bible.

American conservative ideology incorporates patriotism, although patriotism can exist independently of conservatism and can be an ideology unto itself. Moreover, some ideologues who also have a religion try to reconcile the religion with the ideology. Thus, for American conservatives and patriots who are also Christian, concluding that America is a Christian nation may ease their troublin’ minds.

God, however, communicated through Moses, “Do not make any gods to be alongside me…” (Exodus 20:23, NIV). So although ideologies are not made of silver or gold, we should resist pressure to put any ideology, including patriotism, on equal footing with God. Similarly, we should resist any urge to merge faith in God with love of country. God should come before everything else, distinctly, not blurred. “You shall have not other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3; NIV) We should willingly allow God, who comes first, to prune our patriotism and other ideologies, casting into the fire the harmful parts and enhancing the portions that most serve God’s will. Jesus Christ said, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” (John 15:1-2; NIV) If we remain in the true vine, God will guide us regarding how much and what kind of patriotism to exhibit or avoid.

The same formula applies for other ideologies.

Nonetheless, I plan to study the World Overcomers sermon and the references it lists. I like John 16:33, spoken by Christ, the scripture from which this congregation’s name appears to be drawn: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33; NIV).

I also like the work that God has done through World Overcomers Outreach Ministries including ministering to gang bangers and acquiring a shopping center, which the congregation is redeveloping.

Since God feeds this congregation and also feeds others through it, there might be some more meat in that sermon that I need to chew on.

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

www.thepositivecommunity.com Summer 2010

BY ADRIAN A. COUNCIL, SR.

Vol. 10, No. 8

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Church/Community Affairs Coordinator Faith Jackson Contributing Writers Sonja Gracy Dr. Phillip Bonaparte Dr. John Palmer Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Rosemary Sinclair Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Herb Boyd Glenda Codogan Toni Parker Helene Fox Glen Townes Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood William Parrish Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Donovan Gopie Linda Pace Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp.

133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: positive.corp@verizon.net Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © 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.

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The Last Word

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ON HARLEM, HAITI AND A RUN FOR HOPE e hope that you enjoyed our annual Harlem Summer Issue. Harlem USA is the most famous black community in the world—the cultural capital of black America. According to the Manhattan Borough President’s office, Harlem is only second to Times Square as a popular tourist destination in NYC. Harlem has been called “home” by countless legends—the giants in music, the arts, sports, religion and politics whose impact on language, fashion, the American soul and world popular culture continue to shine and resonate. The “Village Of Harlem;” whose main business and shopping thoroughfare, the ever bustling 125th Street is home to the fabled World Famous Apollo Theater and the offices of the former President of the United States, William Jefferson (Bill) Clinton.

It’s a cultural celebration Uptown as the HARLEM WEEK Festival, swings into high gear! We are grateful to the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce for honoring The Positive Community at Gracie Mansion during the Annual Harlem Week kick-off reception. The grand honors went to the family of the late Percy Ellis Sutton, former Manhattan Borough President, a co-founder of Harlem Week and founder of the Inner City Broadcasting Corporation, owners of radio stations WLIB and WBLS This year’s HARLEM WEEK festival theme is, “Harlem Remembers, Salutes and Celebrates the Children of Haiti.” Throughout the festival, there will be special salutes and recognitions to remind us of the devastating earthquake that claimed

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over 200,000 lives. The people, the children are suffering on this island nation just 90 minutes from the coast of Florida. Six months later, the relief efforts continue. Our prayers, time and resources are still very much needed.

A key activity at HARLEM WEEK 2010 is the Annual Percy Sutton Harlem 5k Run and the New York Family Walk-a-Thon organized by the New York Road Runners Club and the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. This year, these events will be used as a fundraiser to assist the children of Haiti. The event will be held on Saturday August 21st.

Our colleague, Mr. Karl B. Rodney, publisher of the New York Carib news is organizing fellow newspapers and magazine publishers from our community to support this initiative. In addition to providing promotional support, we will also be fielding walk teams. Our walk team, The Positive Community Crusaders will be lead by our own, Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, “The Fitness Doctor.”

We invite individuals, families, churches, schools, businesses and community organizations to join our team. Sign-up today, contact Ms Faith Jackson at The Positive Community: 973-233-9200 or e-mail faith@thepositivecommunity.com To form your own walk team contact Ms. Tamara Smalling at HARLEM WEEK at 212-862-8477 or visit www.harlemdiscover.com Always remember that teamwork and service—selfless, loving service, are the essentials of progress and a community-building ideal.

Together, in the spirit of brotherhood and community pride let us promote goodwill and celebrate cultural unity through support of this truly noble and most healthy cause!

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Run or Walk

in Harlem

Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run and NYC Family Health Walk for the Children of Haiti Saturday, August 21 Run–8:30 am / Walk–9:30 am

Start at St. Nicholas Park (West 135th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue)

Register now at nyrr.org

JOIN US in Harlem

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Join your friends and neighbors in Harlem as we walk/run for fun, fitness, community, and support for Haiti’s children. After July 23, $10 of every entry fee will be donated to the children of Haiti through the William J. Clinton Foundation.

To register or for more information, visit nyrr.org.

Bike the East River Greenway to 120th Street and ride 3 blocks south on Pleasant Avenue.

Tell your cab driver to drop you off at 117th Street and Pleasant Avenue.

That’s one block east of First Avenue. Taxis and livery cars will be waiting for you when you’re done shopping.

By subway, take the Number 6 train to Lexington and 116th Street.

It’s just a 10minute walk to East River Plaza.

Parking? We’ve got 8 levels and 1,248 spaces for you. Enter our covered garage from 116th Street or from the southbound FDR. It’s only $4 for up to 2 hours.

(That’s just 3 cents a minute.)

Here are just a few ways to get to East River Plaza. Have fun!

We’re located directly off the 116th Street exit of the FDR Drive.

Only 10 blocks south of the Triborough Bridge and accessible to anyone anywhere.

The best bus line in the city, the fabulous M116, will take you directly to 117th Street and Pleasant Avenue.

If you’re feeling energetic, we’re a 36-minute walk from the Apollo Theater, an 85-minute walk from Grand Central, and a 165-minute walk from the Staten Island Ferry.