The Positive Community Summer 2014

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Harlem Summer Issue

™ $2.95

Special Section: HARLEM WEEK TURNS FORTY!

David Dinkins Tribute: Still a Team Player

Teachers and ParenTs

working TogeTher To helP all children succeed

iT’s called ParTnershiP United Federation oF teachers

A Union of Professionals 52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org Officers: Michael Mulgrew President, Emil Pietromonaco Secretary, Mel Aaronson Treasurer, LeRoy Barr Assistant Secretary, Mona Romain Assistant Treasurer Vice Presidents: Karen Alford, Carmen Alvarez, Anne Goldman, Janella Hinds, Richard Mantell, Sterling Roberson

Back-to-school for parents, too!

Start your school year on the right foot by getting more involved in your child’s education. Here are some tips for parents.

• Provide resources at home for reading and learning. Families should have books and magazines on hand and read with their children each day.

• Emphasize academics. Many families get caught up in athletics and extracurricular activities, when academics should be their first concern.

• Support school rules and goals. Families should take care not to undermine school rules, discipline, or goals.

• Encourage children to do their best in school.

Families must indicate that they believe education is important and that they want their children to do the best they possibly can at school.

• Set a good example. Families should show their children that they believe reading is enjoyable and useful. They shouldn’t spend all their time in front of the TV. • Use pressure positively. Families should encourage children to do their best, but they should not apply too much pressure by setting unattainable goals or by involving them in too many activities.

• Call teachers early if there is a problem so there is still time to improve the situation.

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

New Jersey Education Association… working for great public schools for every child.

Wendell Steinhauer, President Marie Blistan, Vice President Sean M. Spiller, Secretary-Treasurer Edward J. Richardson, Executive Director Steve Swetsky, Assistant Executive Director

Summer 2014

CONTENTS SECTIONS MONEY .........................................19 EDUCATION ..................................51 CULTURE ......................................73 HEALTH ........................................85

Features David and Joyce Dinkins August 1953

27

COVER STORY DAVID DINKINS: STILL A TEAM PLAYER

Baraka Sworn in as Mayor ..............................11 Eastern Baptist Association .............................12 General Baptist Convention ............................14 Roundtable Wrap-Up ......................................19 The Oldest Flower Shop in Brooklyn ................22 Book Review: Cookies Do Crumble ..................40 Jim Harding Retires But Keeps Working ...........41

SPECIAL SECTIONS: School Honors Mandela .................................57 TRIBUTE TO DAVID DINKINS 28-39 Hooray for the Graduates! ..............................58 HARLEM WEEK 45-52 Omega Psi Phi Scholarship Gala .....................64

&also inside

Brooklyn Pres. Addresses Banneker H.S. Grads ..68 Bowen foundation Celebrates 25th Anniversary ..69 Concourse Hill Welcome Pavilion Dedicated ...73

Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Fatherhood Matters Conference ......................81

My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Mississippi Freedom Summer .........................82

Gospel Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Heroes of Healthcare .....................................85

Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Interfaith Medical Center Saved .....................87

The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Happy 115th Birthday, Miss Susie! .................89

The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Breast Cancer Spring Bling .............................90

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

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REV. DR. CALVIN O. BUTTS III GUEST EDITORIAL

Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III is Pastor of the landmark Abyssinian Baptist Church in the City of New York, and President, The State University of New York College at Old Westbury.

Mayor David N. Dinkins His impact on his beloved “gorgeous mosaic.” s a quintessential pioneer politician, David Dinkins exemplified perseverance during a time in New York City when cultural, spiritual, economic, and political discord presented seemingly insurmountable challenges for the masses. Though he encountered resistance inherent with being the first African American mayor of a diverse, ethnically divided city, and inherited a city plagued by critical problems, Mr. Dinkins’ tenure as the Big Apple’s 106th mayor left an indelible mark in the annals of NYC’s political history.

When racial tensions permeated NYC’s culture in the early 90s, Dinkins demonstrated bravery and unparalleled grace under fire to quell eruptions between virtually every ethnic community in New York. This was no minor task for a mayor whose everyday agenda also included attending to a plethora of conflicting demands from his constituents. Nevertheless, Dinkins proved successful in setting into motion policy changes within the city he called “a gorgeous mosaic.”

Specifically, David Dinkins initiated a Safe Streets/Safe Cities strategic plan that began the much needed clean-up of 42nd Street & Times Square, and the rapid and dramatic decline of violent crimes in the city. His policies on housing rehabilitation helped launch revitalization of low-income neighborhoods and affordable housing that set precedents for longstanding city-housing initiatives, and, his social work plans inspired The Beacon Schools, as well as community and health care centers. Further, during Dinkins’ tenure NYC experienced a major decrease in its homeless shelter population.

David Dinkins was a visionary mayor who realized the importance of implementing economic development projects throughout the city. Under his mayoral leadership, “Broadway on Broadway,” “Restaurant Week,” and “Fashion Week” were established, and the world famous

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6 The Positive Community

Summer 2014

USTA Arthur Ashe Stadium was built. The longevity of these profitable initiatives is a strong testament to the David Dinkins legacy.

Beyond his political career, David Dinkins continues to maintain a loyal commitment to the African American community. A believer in the socio-economic advancement for people of color, particularly in the areas of education and employment, Dinkins remains actively involved in creating programs and policies that promote progressive movement on these issues.

Let us remember and encourage recognition of the momentum for change that David Dinkins brought to the office of the mayor during a most turbulent time in NYC. In the face of adversity, he was resolute in providing brave, purposeful, and exemplary representation of the people.

At the end of his mayoral term and to this day, Dinkins is credited with setting policies and executive leadership perspectives that ultimately changed the City of New York for the better.

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R C

GREAT

OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

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

T

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

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

Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor

St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor

Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, Pastor

Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor

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

St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor

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

Agape Christian Ministries Worship Ctr. Rev. Craig R. Jackson. Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Jasper E. Peyton, Interim Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor

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

Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor

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

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

St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe

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

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

Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor

St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper

Lagree Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Wayland Williams, Jr., Pastor

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

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

St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor

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

St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor

St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor

Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

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

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

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

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 8:30 AM RUN • 9:30 AM WALK

P E R C Y S U T T O N HARLEM 5K RUN

&

NYC Walk

Saluting the 50 TH Anniversar y of the

1964 Civil Rights Act

Honoring 1964 Slain Civil Rights Heroes:

James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, & Michael Schwerner

Join us for a 5K Run & 1964 Civil Rights Act Walk through Historic Harlem

In honor of the historic efforts which allowed for the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the leadership role which was played by the NAACP in bringing about this legislation. We are requesting that all participate in supporting the important works, past, present and future of the NAACP. We ask that you: 1. Take out memberships with the NAACP, and/or 2. Make a contribution(s) to the NAACP , and/or 3. Volunteer to assist, or mentor at the NAACP, or 4. Do any combination of the above

For more details please call 212-344-7474, or visit their website at www.nysnaacp.org

We are making this request with the highest respect for the need to continue the ongoing struggle to protect and defend civil rights for all.

RACE & WALK START AT ST. NICHOLAS PARK (WEST 135TH STREET & ST. NICHOLAS AVE., NYC) LETS GATHER AT 9:00 AM THE WALK STARTS AT 9:30 AM @ ST. NICHOLAS PARK on W. 135TH ST. & ST. NICHOLAS AVE

No Excuses!

Come out and Walk even if you have not pre-registered.

Register for the Walk now! Go to www.NYRR.org by 8/21 For information on sponsorship call Mr. Causey or Mr .Tate at 212 - 862-7200

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.

Remembering Ruby

s the 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer comes to a close, I am reminded that it began with the loss of a civil rights pioneer who used her talent to advance the movement. Ruby Dee, at the age of 91, apparently made a peaceful exit from this earthly realm having left the world a better place than she found it. Ms. Dee should have won an Oscar for her 1961 role in Angela Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun—those kinds of awards weren’t given to black actors back then.

Both she and her late husband, actor Ossie Davis, should also have been known as America’s foremost husband/wife acting couple like Alfred Lunt and his wife, Lynn Fontanne. But they weren’t giving those kinds of props to black actors back then.

Ms. Dee was class personified. Electrifying either on the Great White Way or on the silver screen, you knew you had seen acting at its best when this extraordinary thespian walked away from a scene. Refusing to take just any role that was tossed to her, there were times when she and Davis made personal appearances at churches

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Summer 2014

or other smaller venues to read poetry, recite prose and to seemingly say, “We will not compromise what we stand for or who we are simply to make a buck.”

At the age of 83, she should have won an Oscar for her role in American Gangsta, playing the mother of Frank Lucas, the black mobster portrayed by Denzel Washington. But, well, you know. It was 2007 but the more things changed the more they remained the same.

I watched her yet again when Oprah Winfrey repeated her Legends Ball on OWN and marveled at the fact that when they panned the camera, Dee, a living legend, was so overwhelmed by the attention she was getting from performers younger than she.

When I see some of these youthful black women who make scads of money and garner unusual attention for parading half-naked across some stage, I feel like saying, “Child, take a page out of Ruby Dee’s life book and treat yourself better than that.”

We have weekly noonday services at our church every Wednesday. One of the regular attendees is a member of Christ Church in the township of Rockaway. She is a retired educator who taught Ms. Dee’s granddaughter years ago in the Montclair school district. This individual was shocked, she said, to see how unassuming the child was in writing a composition about her grandmother, Ruby Dee. And the teacher also was stunned to meet Dee’s daughter who was equally unassuming. Well, as they say, the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. In fact, continuing along that line regarding the tree metaphor, Oprah said another tall tree had fallen, referring to Ms. Dee’s demise.

But her on-screen talent will live on forever. In my judgment, Ruby Dee could have played any role a white actress was given. No, not as a soul sister —but as a trained, polished performer who had honed her craft with the best of them. I repeat, she could have played a myriad of white roles. Then again, such roles weren’t being given to black actors back then. Pity.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The People’s Choice

Mayor Baraka (third from left) takes his oath of office from former Governor Codey (left).

His mother Amina Baraka (second from left) holds the Bible.

At right are Mayor Baraka’s daughters.

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n Tuesday, July 1, 2014, Mayor Ras J. Baraka took his oath of office as Newark’s Chief Executive, at noon, outside the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in downtown Newark. State Senator and former Governor Richard J. Codey administered the oath.

After taking the oath for the four-year term, Mayor Baraka became the 40th since the City’s incorporation in 1836.

In attendance were U.S. Senator Cory A. Booker; U.S. Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr.; State Senator Teresa Ruiz; Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.; Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, former Newark Mayors Kenneth A. Gibson and Sharpe James, and former New York City Mayor David Dinkins.

In addition, the elected Newark Municipal Council Members were sworn in to their four-year terms, and elected Mildred Crump as Municipal Council President. -AAC

Newark City Council President Mildred Crump (seated) with L–R: her son Atty. C. Lawrence (Larry) Crump, his wife, Velma and Bob Lee of WBLS-FM Emmis Broadcasting

Photos: Glenn Frieson, Vincent Bryant

Mary J. Blige with Mayor Baraka www.thepositivecommunity.com

Felipe Luciano and friend

L–R: Panasonic’s Terri Seeney, Manager, Corporate Outreach and Penny Joseph, VP, Community Relations and Corporate Outreach.

Former Mayors David N. Dinkins (NYC) and Sharpe James (Newark) with Alana Smith, who sang the National Anthem at the inauguration ceremony.

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

11

Eastern Baptist Association

C

elebrating the 93rd Annual Session of the Eastern Baptist Association and its Auxiliaries July 11 thru July 18th at First Baptist Church 100-10 Astoria Boulevard, East Elmhurst New York.

Rev. Dr. Patrick Young, host pastor, Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Barnett, moderator.

Host Pastor Rev. Patrick Young, Queens Borough President Melinda Kat, Deputy Queens Borough President Larry Cormin

L–R: Vice Moderators Rev. Dr. Donald Butler, Suffolk County; Rev Dr. Lemuel Mobley, Kings County; Rev. Dr. Gilbert Pickett, at large; Host Pastor Rev. Dr. Patrick Young, trustee EBA; Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Barnett, moderator; Rev. Dr. Ronald Grant, president, Empire Missionary Baptist Convention; Rev. Dr. Carl Washington, VP at large, Empire Missionary Baptist Convention; Bishop Winfred J. Pippen, chair board of managers EBA and 93rd Annual Session co-ordinator

Photos: Bruce Moore

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Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Join MyPerkins™ at perkinsrestaurants.com Printed in the U.S.A. © 2014 Perkins & Marie Callender’s, LLC

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

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OF THE NATIONAL BAPTIST CONVENTION, USA, INC.

“Embracing Kingdom Principles, Making People The Priority”

Educating, Equipping and Empowering God’s People

for Excellence.

New headquarters building Dr. Campbell presiding at the meeting

General Baptist Convention of New Jersey

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n July 19th, the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey welcomed the organization’s leadership to an open house and business meeting at their new state headquarters in Trenton. The building, purchased in 2012, is currently undergoing extensive renovations. Already, a new elevator has been installed.

The building will be used as a community resource center serving the greater Trenton region. As a statewide institution, the GBCNJ headquarters will serve as a focal point for a revival of economic development,

financial literacy, cultural literacy and health advocacy for its membership and community. According to President Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., “Upon this rock, on this day, the renewal, resurrection and renaissance of a great people will be built a spiritual and cultural home for the people of God! The light of our work today will shine on for generations to come.”

After the business meeting, the community was invited to take part in a festive barbeque on the two and a half acre campus of the General Baptist Convention headquarters.

—AAC

L–R: Sis. Althea Bryan, with Sis.Tracy Bracewell serving and the Evergreen BC Deacons & Trustees in the background.

L–R: Zachary Chester, president, Trenton, NJ City Council with Stephen Council and son Shane

Photos: Alex J. Watson, Joyce Clark

L–R: Rev. Dr. Joseph E. Woods, Rev. Grady James, Sis. Jackie Carter, Sis. Dorothy Campbell, Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr. Rev. Milton Hendricks and on the end with the hat on is Rev. Dr. Edward Harper. BACK ROW: Bro. Reginald Dawkins, Rev. Edward Bryant, Bro.Willie Burke and Bro. Quinton Joyner.

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

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UNITED MISSIONARY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION UNITED MRev. ISSIONARY APTIST AJr., SSOCIATION Dr. Carl L.B Washington, Moderator

UNITED Rev. MISSIONARY BAPTIST ASSOCIATION Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., Moderator

Moderator Rev. Dr. Anthony Rev. LoweDr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., Rev. Dr. Renee F. Washington-Gardner Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe Rev. Dr. Renee F. Washington-Gardner st Moderator 2nd Vice Moderator 11st Vice Vice Moderator 2nd Vice Moderator Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe 1st Vice Moderator

Rev. Shepherd Lee RecordingLee Secretary Rev. Shepherd Rev. Secretary Shepherd Lee Recording Rev. Geraldine Harris

Recording Secretary Assistant Recording Secretary Rev. Geraldine Harris Rev. Geraldine Harris Rev. Wayne Williams Assistant Recording Secretary Assistant FinancialRecording Secretary Secretary

Rev. Wayne Williams Rev. Rev.Wayne PatriciaWilliams A. Morris Financial Secretary Financial Secretary Assistant Financial Secretary

The United Missionary Baptist Association THE and THE THE UNITED MISSIONARY BAPTIST The New Mt. Zion Baptist Church UNITED MISSIONARY BAPTIST UNITED MISSIONARY BAPTIST

Rev. Patricia A. Morris Rev. A.Merritt Morris Rev.Patricia Roderick Assistant Financial Secretary Corresponding Secretary Assistant Financial Secretary

ASSOCIATON

Salute & Congratulate ASSOCIATON ASSOCIATON

Rev.Roderick Darren Morton Rev. Merritt Rev. Roderick Merritt Assistant Corresponding Corresponding Secretary Secretary Corresponding Secretary

AND

Rev.Darren Keith A. Bolden, Sr. Rev. Morton Rev. Darren Morton Treasurer Assistant Corresponding Secretary

Assistant Corresponding Secretary Rev.Keith John A. Davis Rev. Bolden, Sr. Assistant TreasurerSr. Rev. Keith A. Bolden, Treasurer

Treasurer Rev. Dr. Sean P. Gardner, Sr. Rev. John Davis Auditor

Assistant Treasurer Rev. John Davis Rev. Kevin Quarles Assistant Rev.Treasurer Dr. Sean P. Gardner, Sr. Chief of Staff

Auditor Rev. Dr. Sean P. Gardner, Sr. Rev. Torrence Robinson Auditor Rev. Kevin Quarles Program Chair Chief of Staff

Rev. Kevin Quarles Rev. Jeffrey Crenshaw Rev. Torrence Robinson Special Assistant to the Moderator Chief of Staff Program Chair

Rev. Torrence Robinson Rev. Jeffrey Crenshaw Program Chair

Special Assistant to the Moderator

Rev. Jeffrey Crenshaw Special Assistant to the Moderator

Rev. Dr. Renee F. Washington-Gardner 2nd Vice Moderator

AND Hon. David N. Dinkins

THE NEW MT. ZIONAND BAPTIST CHURCH

THE NEW MT. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

THE MT. ZIONofBAPTIST CHURCH onNEW his many public service Salute and years Congratulate the

to David humanity Salute and Congratulate the Honorable N. as Dinkins

Salute and Congratulate the Honorable David N. Dinkins Borough President OnHonorable hisVeteran, many years of Public Service David N. Dinkins

To Humanity …

On his many years of as Public Service Mayor of New York City Veteran, Borough On A his many years ofPresident Public Service To Humanity as …

Mayor of NYC and Professor!

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Moderator Dr. Carl L. Washington , Jr.

of NYC and Professor!

Romans 13:7 AMayor Veteran, Borough President “Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due ...”

Professor

“Render to all their tribute and to whom tribute is due ...”

Mayor ofdues: NYC Professor!

UMBA HEADQUARTERS: New Mt. Zion Baptist Church  171 West 140th Street  New York, New York 10030 Romans 13:7 Reverend Dr. 212-283-9069 Carl L. Washington, Jr. Office: 212-283-0788  Fax:

UMBA Moderator & Pastor of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church

“Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due ...”

"Render to all theirNew dues: tribute whom isStreet due…”

13:7 West 140th  New York,Romans New York 10030 UMBA HEADQUARTERS: Mt. Zion Baptist to Church  171tribute Romans 13:7Moderator Reverend Dr.Lowe, Carl L.st Washington, Jr.UMBA Reverend Dr. Anthony 1 Vice 212-283-9069 Office: 212-283-0788  Fax: Reverend Renee F.& Washington Gardner, 2nd Vice Moderator UMBA Dr. Moderator Pastor of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church

th UMBA HEADQUARTERS: New Mt. Zion Baptist  171Lowe, West 140 StreetModerator  New York,UMBA New York 10030 st Vice Reverend Dr.Church Anthony 1L. Reverend Dr. Carl Washington, Jr. Office: 212-283-0788  Fax: 212-283-9069 Reverend Dr. Renee F.&Washington Gardner, 2nd Vice Moderator UMBA Moderator Pastor of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend Dr. Anthony Lowe, 1st Vice Moderator UMBA

Reverend Dr. Renee F. Washington Gardner, 2nd Vice Moderator

1199SEIU Celebrates the

40 ANNIVERSARY OF HARLEM WEEK TH

The 400,000 nurses and caregivers of 1199SEIU honor Mayor David Dinkins and remember our dear friend Basil Patterson. Both men’s pioneering careers and dedication to Harlem and the five boroughs have greatly improved the lives of working New Yorkers.

/1199SEIU

@1199SEIU

1199SEIU.org

GREAT NEWS!

.

125th Street BID has been selected as a nyc founder. Coming soon, 125thstreet.nyc will be up and running!

Connecting the Dots to service the local and global market Ensuring A Cleaner and Safer Harlem Furthering the Development of the Cultural Arts and Entertainment Destination

The DOTs Showcase “Culture, Shopping, Education, Entertainment, and Dining

A .nyc web address: Provides New Yorkers with an official way to brand and own their identity online.(Legitimate) Showcases your location as an enviable component of your success. (Exclusive) Provides every New Yorker with the ability to connect through a shared location. (Localization)

125th Street BID .nyc Founders Partners

Money BUSINESS, MONEY & WORK

program was excellent and the information shared was especially timely. On becoming debt-free is “The what our community really needs to hear. A very special thank you to The Positive Community for putting together such an excellent program.

Halim Quddus ” President, Muslim American Chamber of Commerce

outstanding, excellent! The benefits of attending these Roundtables give our community the “Absolutely opportunity to hear critical information that we otherwise cannot access. ” Barbara Jones CEO Flowers by Barbara, New Brunswick, NJ

Linnette Shaver-Johnson Guest Speaker Wells Fargo Bank

Keynote Speaker Rev. Dr. DeForest “Buster” Soaries

Moderator Kay Lucas of Mediasense

very positive, informative conversation about the art of “Awealth management and debt management.

I just wish that we had more time to go deeper on those issues.

Great networking!

Kevin E. Caldwell

rare opportunity to learn and interact “ Aaround an issue of vital importance to the future of our community. ” Barry Washington

Executive Director, KAIH Institute

Broadband Entrepreneur, Newark, NJ

”

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

19

Financial Freedom Roundtable May 28, 2014 Visitor’s Center, Rutgers New Brunswick For more, visit www.thepositivecommunity.com

Panelists, L–R: Kwab and Tasha Yamoah, successful investors; Erin Shelly, debt elimination; Stella Cobbinah, paid off home mortgage in 16 years and Kevin Caldwell, successful retirement plan

Dr. Soares carries dfree books into the event

Photos: Vincent Bryant, Karen Waters, Wali Amin Muhammad

Photos: Karen Waters

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Acknowledgements: We offer our deepest gratitude to Al Koeppe, past president and CEO of the Newark Alliance; Clement A. Price, Board of Governors Distinguished Service Professor of History and founding director of the Institute on Ethnicity, Culture and the Modern Experience at Rutgers Newark; and Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, senior pastor of Bethany Baptist Church, Newark for their vision and wisdom in the development of the Newark Leadership Roundtable Series. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

21

�arbara’s � lower

BY GLENDA CADOGAN

F

red Powell is an intriguing man! He is the owner of Barbara’s Flower Shop, a historic black business located on Nostrand Avenue in the heart of Crown Heights, Brooklyn. You could also consider him a “freedom fighter” having been one of the pioneers of the Interracial Council for Business Opportunity (ICBO), an organization that forged alliances between the National Urban League and the American Jewish Congress. The aim of ICBO, according to Powell, was to identify African Americans and Hispanic Americans who were willing to go into business and pair them with the mostly Jewish and white business owners who were selling out and leaving the inner cities during the racial strife of the early 60s. The ICBO had branches in New Orleans, Los Angeles and Washington D.C. The New York branch was housed at the old Teresa Hotel in Harlem, and Powell, in his capacity as its executive director, helped launched many black businesses.

But these are not the things that make him intriguing.

Powell’s intrigue comes from his seemingly contradictory personality styles. He is soft and slow spoken, but in his presence you can feel a kind of power that is electrifying.

Yet, he speaks gently about petunias and daffodils. His passion for his craft of floral arrangements is unmistakable, but his soft tone never changes and you feel the fire of his enthusiasm. For example, this is how he explains

22

The Positive Community Summer 2014

Photo: Sheldon Woodley

�ho�

why his favorite flower is the phalaenopsis orchid. “It has style and texture and so there is no need to bejewel it. It is elegant and can stand on its own without needing a whole lot of designing. Just a string of blossoms on its own makes a statement – it says quality, elegance and natural beauty.”

The oldest flower shop in Brooklyn, Barbara’s has been in business at its current location since 1972. But the history of the shop dates back to 1903 when it was first established by a Greek family called the Callas Brothers. The shop is named after the late Mrs. Powell, who took over ownership from Lillian Lawrence, who bought it from the original owners in the 50s. The growth of Barbara’s Flower’s shop has now spawned B & F Powell Enterprises, which owns two retail stores.

The other store is located in Harlem and managed by Powell’s daughter Tara. “My daughter has done a marvelous job with our Manhattan location since we opened 10 years ago,” says Powell. “As we grow older, we benefit from the ideas of our youth who are not afraid to take chances. When I first started the business, if you could operate an electric typewriter you were considered topnotch. So I am happy that my daughter has now imbued the business with all of the modern technology stuff and moreover is willing to try different things.”

Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

Technology is not the only thing that’s markedly different since Powell got into the business 43 years ago.

It was interesting to find out what Barbara’s Flower Shop sustainability secret is. “Good service, customer appreciation and respect,” says Powell. “That’s what people have come to expect from us. So though we live in a time when you can get flowers even at a corner store, what sets us apart is artistic presentation and quality service.”

In addition, Powell also noted the importance of knowledge. “When I started in 1972, I had no knowledge about flowers,” he says. “So I set out on a path of learning. Once you are invested in something, it is critical that you be determined to learn everything you can, not just about the business but about the industry you are in.” Powell’s journey took him to daily visits to the flower market that was located on the West Side of Manhattan.

“I asked questions and invested in flowers that were not just the ordinary,” he says, adding, “But then I also attended flower shows all over the country and joined the Teleflora organization and became its president.” Eventually, Powell was invited to teach what was to be a one term course in floral design at the Parsons School of Design.

He ended up teaching there for 14 years.

“From the get-go I wanted Barbara’s Flower shop to become the most important flower shop in the area,” Powell says of his early ambitions. To the

www.thepositivecommunity.com

degree that Barbara’s Flower Shop boasts a client list that includes the cosmetic counters at Bloomingdales, Macy’s, June Kelly Art Gallery, auction houses, the YMCA and most of the major churches in Brooklyn, it’s reasonable to conclude that Powell has hit his target at the bull’s-eye.

One of the signatures of Barbara’s Flower Shop is that they provided all of the flowers for James Brown’s Funeral at the Apollo Theatre. Powell is impressed by having done so, but at the same time he is equally delighted for the opportunity to sit down and help the grieving widow or the enthusiastic young bride make the right floral choices for their events.

As the ethnic make-up of Brooklyn continues on another evolutionary trend, businesses everywhere are jockeying for position and survival. Powell, however, is not frazzled. “There is nothing permanent but change,” he says. “The question is: how do you make the change work for you? As with any change, if you are not prepared for it, it will knock you aside and leave you behind. I am not willing to have either happen to me,” he says. “Therefore, I accept everyone as part of the new tapestry that makes up my client list.

When you come into my store nothing else matters other than you are a customer. And my greeting to you is the same as for any other customer: “Good day!

How may I help you?”

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

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Salute to David Dinkins The City University of New York extends its profound appreciation to Mayor David Dinkins for his enduring support of educational opportunity in the City of New York.

Benno Schmidt Chairperson, Board of Trustees

David Dinkins.indd 3

James B. Milliken Chancellor

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

 Columbia University

E.E. Cruz & Co. was recently Bronx-Whitestone Bridgenotified that we are the apparent low bidder on the Bronx River Parkway E.E. Cruz & Co. was recently notified that we are the apparent low bidder on Bridges at CraneParkway RoadBridges Project in Westchester County.County. at Crane Road Project in Westchester For all projects, arewelooking highly qualified For allwe projects, are lookingfor for highly qualified M/W/D/LBE union workers and subcontractors andand vendors certified for heavysubconcivil construction.

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E.E. Cruz & Company, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and follows a policy of employment decisions without regard to race, gender, religion, or sexual pre

Donald Notice: A Leader in Harlem Housing

BY FERN GILLESPIE

O

ver the last 30 years, Donald Notice, executive director of West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. (WHGA), has observed three distinct periods in housing in Harlem.

There was the early 1980s. He calls those years the Abandonment Period. Landlords were literally walking away from Harlem properties. Drugs and crime were rising.

There was an influx of abandoned houses and buildings that scattered throughout Uptown.

By 1988, Harlem entered what Notice refers to as the Revitalization Period. The federal government became involved. A low-income tax credit was provided in government programs and the private sector began to invest in communities and put equity in affordable housing. Tax abatements from private funders for affordable housing became available and the City of New York made a commitment to revitalize Harlem housing. Mayors Koch, Dinkins and Giuliani put abandoned Harlem buildings in development programs.

Today, Harlem’s housing market is in a 21st century Renaissance Period. Affordable housing has changed neighborhoods into desirable areas, evolving into gentrification. High end properties are flourishing and, most times, people other than Harlemites are acquiring ownership. www.thepositivecommunity.com

“We’re dealing with the future of affordable housing. The lack of city-owned buildings is the biggest obstacle,” explained Notice.

“The community did an excellent job. However, we can’t get the land cheap anymore.”

Notice joined WGHA in 1992 and became executive director in 1998.

He manages the agency’s $7 million operation, which has a portfolio of 71 buildings and 12,000 units of affordable housing. Its three subsidiary organizations include two homeless shelters for families and the Oberia D. Dempsey Multi-Service Center, where over 90,000 New Yorkers come for services each month.

In addition, WHGA finds temporary apartments for tenants when a building is being renovated. After renovation, tenants are moved back.

The rent is structured for 60 percent of the median area income.

“In 2012, we had 110 units of affordable housing available. We received 30,000 applications,” Notice recalled. “It documented the need for affordable housing in Harlem.”

Through his leadership, WHGA has become a leading community development corporation in New York City. Under his direction, there have been 12 major affordable housing and homeownership projects consisting of 625 affordable housing units totaling over $120 million in construction costs.

Notice has been instrumental in Harlem housing since the 1980s. During that period, he served as Deputy Director at a local Northern Manhattan office of NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). While at HPD he was on the frontline in developing and implementing housing criteria in West Harlem.

A key leader in the negotiation with the Columbia University expansion project, Notice serves as chairman of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation. Now, $100 million will be allocated in funding for housing and program supports for neighbourhood residents.

“Some build houses. We deal with issues concerning residents. Some build and leave. To us, social service is the key to maintaining these communities,” explained Notice. “We took 114th Street and changed it one block at a time. Families can send children to college. It gives me a fulfilment to see the community striving…helping people create wealth through home ownership. I love helping people.”

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

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DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

Friends Forever My tribute to

David Dinkins S

ince his beginnings with the Democratic Party in Harlem, it was clear to everybody that my dearest friend and brother, David Dinkins, was destined for greatness, as his intellect, charisma, and compassion shined in everything he pursued. I am fortunate to have witnessed firsthand many of his groundbreaking accomplishments over his lifetime, and cannot be more proud to recognize one of New York's greatest public servants who has been dedicated to promoting the basic principles of equal opportunity and democracy throughout his community.

On the very last airing of his radio show "Dialogue with Dinkins," David and I reminisced about the exciting times when we worked so closely with Basil Paterson and Percy Sutton to keep Dr. King's Dream alive. We were known as 'The Gang of Four' because we were inseparable and indefatigable in our relentless efforts to make Dr. King's Dream a reality for all. The Civil Rights Movement's pursuit of justice and equality inspired each of us to champion Dr. King's legacy to help pave the path in which anybody, regardless of race, could not only vote, but also hold any public office in the nation.

David did just that in 1990 when he became the first African-American mayor of New York City. Under David's leadership, the crime rate in New York City fell significantly, Times Square underwent a much needed cleanup and revitalization, and the city's homeless population, living in shelters, fell to its lowest point in 20 years. During his Administration, David was an extraordinary example of a

www.thepositivecommunity.com

By Charlie Rangel

bold pioneer, who blazed the trail for a generation of leaders, in our beautiful City and across the State.

In all, David has broken so many barriers, giving voice to our community in unprecedented ways. He has never been afraid to speak the truth, as he has eloquently done in his recently published memoir, "A Mayor’s Life: Governing New York’s Gorgeous Mosaic.” I rely on David as my trusted advisor, because I know I can always expect honesty and candid talk from him. I am grateful for his unwavering friendship, from literally standing by my side through some of the darkest periods in my life, to being with me during my most triumphant moments-- to include when my most recent primary win was announced close to midnight on June 24th.

Today at age 87, he is more active and vocal as ever, earning respect for his even-handedness, commitment and a clear purpose, which is still exhibited through his lectures as professor at Columbia University as well as his humanitarian work for children or advocacy on AIDS -- not to mention his incredible love for tennis. David is truly one of the most remarkable men I have ever met.

A true man of service, as a Marine in World War II, to his tenure in the New York State Assembly and in City Hall, David Dinkins' name and legacy will forever be honored as a great American and on of New York City's finest. I wish David and his lovely wife Joyce, continuous joy, health and fulfillment through the good work they never stopped doing for their friends and community.

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

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DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

Columbia Honors Mayor David Dinkins

DAVID DINKINS, former New York City mayor and professor of public affairs at Columbia, began his career in public service in 1966 in the New York State Assembly. In the decades that followed, he also served as president of the New York City Board of Elections, city clerk and Manhattan borough president. Together with his friends and colleagues, Basil Paterson, Percy Sutton and Charles Rangel, he helped make Harlem a center of political and civic leadership for our City, State and Nation. He continues that record of service in many ways, including by hosting the David N. Dinkins Leadership and Public Policy Forum held each year at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs, which welcomes leaders of the nation’s and world’s most dynamic cities to address key policy issues of our time.

Fond of referring to New York City as a “gorgeous mosaic,” Professor Dinkins continues to be a vocal advocate for children, education, progressive urban policy and tolerance. We are proud to call him a Columbian.

neighbors.columbia.edu

David Dinkins Still a Team Player

BY R.L. WITTER Being Mayor of New York City is better than being mayor of any city anywhere in the world. It’s better than being governor of any state, including New York State. The only better job is the one that Obama has.”

— David Dinkins he name David Dinkins connotes a certain air of dignity and distinction. I immediately recall myriad photos and television clips I’ve seen where he seemed to define the word erudite. This man who had been an historic figure to me became incredibly human and even more impressive when we spent an hour or so talking about his experiences as the Mayor of New York City and beyond.

Born in Trenton, NJ in 1927, Dinkins has always had a strong work ethic and a giving heart, as witnessed by one of his earliest memories. “When I was six or seven, I think...they sold fruit and vegetables from carts at the intersection of 8th Avenue & 125th Street,” he recalled.

“But they wouldn’t give you a shopping bag, you had to buy one. So I used to buy them three for a nickel and sell them at two cents apiece. And when I finally got together about a dime, I went and bought something for my mother and I was the proudest little guy you ever saw.”

His voice rich with experience and his words seemingly chosen deliberately from a vocabulary of the past— uncluttered by “you knows” and other filler words, a conversation with Mr. Dinkins feels like a New York City government history lesson taught by your favorite uncle.

Peppered with humor and words of advice, life-learned lessons are imparted effortlessly. “Because adults recognize me, I’m able to do this without getting arrested,” he chuckled. “I tell little kids, ‘Remember, the big ones take care of the little ones, and whatever you do, don’t be a bully. It’s uncool being a bully.’ And to adults, I say, ‘We don’t own this planet; we hold it in trust for the youth.

And we owe them the capacity to achieve their potential.’” Sage words from a man who knows.

T

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After growing up in Both Trenton and Harlem, Dinkins served in the U.S. Marine Corps before attending Howard University and graduating with a degree in Mathematics and the love of his life, his wife, Joyce. “I was a Mathematics major and I was carrying a calculus book and she was impressed by that,” he laughed. “She thought I must be smart. So we were just lucky, we found each other early on…”

Dinkins uses words like “we” and “our” almost exclusively, for both personal and professional matters. He gives credit where credit is due and fondly recalls many of the people who helped shape his life. “My stepmother was terrific! She was a Howard graduate and she said, ‘I can get you in.’ I got into Howard, and for a year and a half, my motto was ‘Don’t let your education interfere with your recreation.’” His teachers and professors also played a huge role in both his educational development and his life. “There was Bernice Munce, who taught Latin in Trenton,” Dinkins reminisced. “And the head of the Math department [at Howard], Dr. David Blackwell, who got his Ph.D. at the University of Illinois at age 22—he was absolutely brilliant. And if he called on you in class and you didn’t have the correct answer, he would more often than not, say something that caused you to feel that you had let him down. You were going to go home and study like hell, so the next time he called on you, you’d be ready. He was my great influence,” Dinkins continued.

“He and Alice Jackson Houston, who taught Freshman English at Howard. There are grammatical errors that I would never make because of her.”

Not only does the former mayor have a great memory, he also has a huge heart. He never forgot those instrucSummer 2014 The Positive Community

29

tors and felt the need to let them know that as well. “A few years ago I had a student google her [Alice Jackson Houston], trying to find out where she was,” he explained. “I saw that she had died and had a son who was a judge somewhere in the Washington, DC area, and I actually got him on the phone. And these weren’t his words, but he said in effect, ‘Why are you calling me?’

And I said, ‘I just want you to know what your mother did for me.’”

Remarkably, Dinkins was reunited with Dr. Blackwell some years ago. “In 1990 I was mayor and I was the speaker at the commencement at University of California at Berkeley,” he recalled. “I was introduced to Dr. Blackwell.

And I guess I hadn’t listened carefully, I didn’t really hear his name… And he says, ‘Dinkins. Dinkins, Dinkins — I had a student named Dinkins.’ This was 1990 and I graduated Howard in 1950. I did sufficiently well that I won a fellowship to Rutgers University in Math, because of him.”

Evidently, Mayor Dinkins made quite an impression on Dr. Blackwell, too.

“There was Jerome Prince, who was a dean at Brooklyn Law School, who taught Evidence…He was so good and had the capacity to explain things so that you could understand them,” Dinkins recollected. “When we took the Bar review courses that everybody takes to prepare you for the Bar, when we got to the section on evidence, we didn’t even go to the lectures… because he was that good. And the Bar exam, the questions on the Bar exam on evidence were far easier than what we had gotten in law school.”

And once he had finished his education, Dinkins continued to surround himself with people who would enrich his life and set him on his political path. “I didn’t start out

to be in public service,” he clarified. “I joined the political club [Carver Democratic Club] because that’s what people did in that day in terms of networking… In 1965 Ray Jones, the leader of the club known as ‘the Harlem Fox,’ asked me if I wanted to run for the assembly and I said, ‘I guess,’” he chuckled. “So I ran and I won, but I had no seat after that one year. But I was hopelessly hooked on public service after that year. Even then, I had no notions of becoming mayor,” Dinkins revealed. “But there came a time in ’77 when Percy [Sutton], who was Manhattan borough president, said he was going to run for mayor. No black man had ever run for anything like that, but Percy always was a visionary… Who would’ve in those days thought of a black man owning a radio station? Percy ran for mayor; I ran for borough president.

Indeed, I ran three times before I finally succeeded.

People used to say to me, ‘What do you do?’ and I’d say, ‘I run for borough president.’”

While it might seem that Dinkins’ political career came easily, it wasn’t without risk. “Now were I to run and lose, I’d have zero—after all of that effort to get to be borough president. But I was persuaded to run —mainly

by Bill Lynch. Harry Belafonte said to me, ‘You must run!’” So run he did and he won! New York City’s first and so far only, African American mayor. More than his place in history, Dinkins reflects fondly on his position as mayor. “It was the greatest job in the world,” he said resolutely. “Being Mayor of New York City is better than being mayor of any city anywhere in the world. It’s better than being governor of any state, including New York State. The only better job is the one that Obama has.”

Dinkins looks back fondly on his time as mayor, again citing the people around him. “We got a lot done, of which I am very proud, but it wasn’t because I was the smartest guy in the room, or the tallest or fastest. It was because of the people I had the good fortune to have working with me.” Dinkins recounts stories sprinkled with names straight out of Who’s Who in New York Politics. Bill Lynch, Basil Paterson, James “Skizz” Watson, Charles Rangel, Herman Badillo and Carl Weisrod all played prominent roles in Dinkins’ political life, as did countless others. And despite the fact that few have adequately acknowledged the accomplishments of the Dinkins administration, the former mayor is quick to shine the light on his team. When I asked about the deal with Disney that jumpstarted the cleanup of Times Square, Dinkins immediately lauded Weisrod for working right up to the last minute to secure that deal. “The last day in office in ’93, Carl Weisbrod came rushing into City Hall with a memorandum…to be signed...,” he explained. “Anybody else in Carl’s position would have been out circulating his resume, seeing where he’s going to get a job to work next week. He was still on the job for us. He did that.” continued on next page

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DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION DAVID DINKINS continued from previous page

Mayor Dinkins also inked the deal with the United States Tennis Association that built the arena where the U.S. Open is held annually. “Mike Bloomberg said it was the best deal in the nation for a municipal stadium,” he said proudly. “It was not built with city money; it was built by the USTA. And even today, it’s owned by the city, it’s a lease arrangement. And the latest estimates are that the US Open in two weeks generates more revenue into the economy of the city than the Yankees, Nets, Knicks and Rangers combined. The numbers today are north of $700 million.”

“I ran for borough president. Indeed, I ran three times before I finally succeeded. People used to say to me, ‘What do you do?’ and I’d say, ‘I run for borough president.”

Recently, Mayor Dinkins had the opportunity to reflect upon his time with Nelson Mandela, “Madiba” as Dinkins fondly referred to him. “He stayed with us in Gracie Mansion…and we have a granddaughter who was born in 1990 and one of my favorite photographs is a group picture with Madiba holding her in his arms…”

Dinkins continued, “I was concerned that the bed in this small suite was sufficiently long enough for him. And it

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DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

wasn’t until 1992 when I took Al Gore and Bill Clinton to meet Mandela, who had come back into town. It wasn’t until I looked at photographs later that I realized that Clinton is maybe half an inch taller than Mandela. Then I realized the reason that I thought that the bed was not long enough was, to me, Nelson Mandela was ten feet tall. What a man.”

In reflecting upon his accomplishments, Dinkins cites his marriage and family as his greatest. “Our children are our greatest accomplishment,” he beamed. “Both children got great educations… and the rest, as they say, is history.” He still refers to his wife of more than 60 years as his “bride,” and when asked about the longevity of their marriage and advice for others he simply remarked, “It’s very simple. The husband has the last word, which is ‘Yes, Dear.’ You have to be lucky and you have to pick the right one. Who knows when you’re starting out? It just happened that for us it worked.” He laughed and then said, “I meet people and they some-

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times say with great pride, ‘We’ve been married 30, 40 years’ and I always respond, ‘There are a lot of nice newlyweds around.’”

I could’ve spent an eternity talking with Mr. Dinkins.

The humor, the history, and the honesty made for a most interesting conversation with a man who at 87 years old is now a professor at Columbia University and still has more going on than most people half his age. Still, the humility prevailed as we ended our conversation and he said, “I’ve been very fortunate. We would never have done the many things we were able to accomplish in the mayor’s office and the borough president’s office were it not for the wonderful people with whom I worked…

Nobody gets anywhere without competent, honest, hardworking staff. If you’re on third base, please understand you didn’t get there because you hit a triple.”

Be sure to check out Dinkins’ memoir, A Mayor’s Life: Governing New York’s Gorgeous Mosaic, for more insights and anecdotes from the man himself.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

We Recognize the Contributions of

The Honorable David N. Dinkins Thank you for a lifetime of service John E. Harmon, Sr., IOM

106th Mayor of New York City

Salutes the Honorable David N. Dinkins

President & CEO, AACCNJ Chairman, National Black Chamber of Commerce

God bless you and your family.

Archdiocese of New York

Office of Black Ministry

Office of Black Ministry Archdiocese of New York Salutes

the Honorable

David N. Dinkins

106th Mayor of New York City God bless you and your family.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

33

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

Greetings &

VEIW VIDEO

To the Honorable

Financial Freedom Roundtable

Best Wishes!

of the

DAVID DINKINS

The gentleman who broke down barriers and opened doors for many who aspired to hold public office.

online at www.thepositivecommunity.com

THANK YOU FOR YOUR EXAMPLE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE THANK YOU FOR YOUR GRACE THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMITMENT

With warmest regards, Congresswoman

COMING SOON

Entrepreneur Roundtable

Yvette D. Clarke (NY-9)

Best Wishes from DC 37’s Everyday Heroes Salutes

Mayor David M. Dinkins

For your years of dedication and commitment to the labor movement and your staunch support of the struggle for social and economic justice and a better New York for all.

Lillian Roberts, Executive Director Representing 121,000 public employees and 50,000 retirees

THE UNION THAT MAKES NEW YORK CITY RUN.

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.dc37.net

www.thepositivecommunity.com

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

The House of the Lord Church, Brooklyn NY Dr. Karen S. Daughtry, Pastor Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, National Presiding Minister

To David Dinkins: A great Mayor, a great servant of the people, and a great friend!

You have “put your footprints on the sands of time.�

Now, bask in the legacy that you have created with a lifetime of committed service to the people.

God bless you!

is proud to salute Mayor David M. Dinkins With deep admiration for your contribution to New York City

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

35

Gala

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

Amplify the Dream

th

ANNIVERSARY

October 23, 2014

The Plaza, New York City

FOUNDED BY AUDREY COHEN IN 1964

Honorary Chair Mayor David Dinkins

Honorary Committee

Honorees

Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer

Changemaker – Helen Lakelly Hunt-Hendrix

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Transformer – Robert Sargent Shriver Jr.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand

Trailblazer – Dr. Edison O. Jackson

Carmen de Lavallade & Geoffrey Holder

Champion – R. Rick Baker

Fernando Ferrer Ruth Messinger Congressman Jerrold Nadler Senator Charles E. Schumer Reverend Al Sharpton

visit mcny.edu/amplify

M

etropolitan College of New York was founded in 1964

by Audrey Cohen as the Women's Talent Corps, an innovative program that trained women on public assistance for new paraprofessional positions in their communities. The program prepared motivated women, with experience in their low-income neighborhoods, for jobs to assist their communities.

Simultaneously, the Women's Talent Corps worked to create a new level of 'paraprofessional' positions in organizations and agencies - teacher's assistant, guidance counselor assistant and paralegal. The 30-week training program included an eight-week classroom orientation, ten weeks on-the-job training in a school or community agency, and twelve weeks of intensive work at the same organization. Students were then hired by those agencies.

By 1970, this groundbreaking program evolved into a coed degree-granting institution of higher education, the College for Human Services. Renamed Audrey Cohen College in 1992 in honor of its founder, the school became Metropolitan College of New York a decade later, reflecting the vitality and diversity that this dynamic institution shares with the city of New York. Students come from all over U.S.A. and the world, drawn to MCNY by its unique experiential focus, hands-on faculty, and opportunities for intense, accelerated study. Today, the college has graduate and undergraduate programs across three schools - the Audrey Cohen School for Human Services and Education, the School for Business and the School for Public Affairs and Administration.

MCNY founder, Audrey Cohen with Mayor David Dinkins

The College's mission, unchanged through the years, reflects its historic roots. MCNY pioneered tying learning to real world applications and are distinctive in their focus on equipping students with the analytical tools needed to create empowering change in workplaces and communities. And, throughout the history of the College, a large majority of their students have come from disadvantaged low-income and minority communities, a hallmark of their continuing commitment to social justice.

Today, the MCNY has nearly 1,300 students in two locations, Manhattan and the Bronx, enrolled in three schools - the Audrey Cohen School for Human Services, the School for Business and the School for Public Affairs and Administration. 50 years and growing!

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

MPAC, Mobilizing Preachers and Communities, honors the living legacy and leadership of David N. Dinkins The Reverend Dr. Johnnie M. Green, Jr.

and

President/CEO

Celebrates the 40th Year of HARLEM WEEK! The Reverend Dr. Carl L. Washington, Chairman The Reverend Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Vice President Internal Affairs Bishop Mitchell Gordon Taylor, Sr., Vice President of Development The Reverend Dr. Patrick Henry Young, General Secretary/Treasurer

MPAC~77 Saint Nicholas Avenue, New York, New York mpacny@gmail.com

10026

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

CE

CCI) CARIBB EA CA .(

F COMM RO ER BE M

ICAN C MER HA -A N

Caribbean American Chamber

Caribbean-American Chamber

Of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (CACCI)

Of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (CACCI)

NDUSTRY, I NC &I

Congratulates and Pays Tribute to Our Friend

Mayor David Norman

DINKINS

For Distinguished Service to the People of NYC And for his tireless efforts to promote Unity and Economic and Social Justice

Dr. Roy A. Hastick, Sr., President and Founder

CACCI’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS Edmund A. Sadio, Board Chairman Christiana J. Bridgewater, Attorney At Law Harry Fouche - Dr. Lowell Hawthorne George Hulse - Dr. Eda F. Harris-Hastick Marcia Melendez - Balfour Peart Alfred Thiebaud - Bishop Cecil Riley, Chaplin CORPORATE ADVISORY CO-CHAIRS Rev. Hilton Smith - Joy Crichlow

Founded in NYS in 1985, CACCI is a membership organization which helps small businesses to start, survive and grow. Membership is open to all persons of diverse backgrounds who are willing to adhere to CACCI’s Mission. CACCI conducts monthly membership meetings that bring members together to network and do business with each other and with the wider business community. CACCI sponsors business training seminars and workshops,

EVERYBODYS Caribbean

provides confidential business counseling services and technical assistance in areas of small business planning and financing, and assists with preparation for certification as an MWBE small business owner in New York City. CACCI also promotes trade and investment opportunities in the Caribbean. CACCI is developing the first ever Caribbean Trade Center in New York and is currently managing the Flatbush Caton Market. CACCI: 1985-2014 ©

www.everybodysmag.com 1

718 834-4544 Info@caribbeantradecenter.com - www.CaribbeanTradeCenter.com

DAVID DINKINS SPECIAL SECTION

HARLEM CONGREGATIONS FOR COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT, INC. (HCCI) developer of

THE DAVID & JOYCE DINKINS GARDENS

New York City’s First Affordable Green Housing Complex

salutes

THE HONORABLE DAVID N. DINKINS

for his contributions to HCCI, Harlem and the New York City Community at Large

& THE 40th ANNIVERSARY OF HARLEM WEEK

a Great Contributor to Harlem Community & Culture

DEREK E. BROOMES HCCI, President & CEO

Cookies DO Crumble

BY QUINITA EDMONIA GOOD

A Moving Autobiography

I

n her autobiography Cookies Do Crumble, octogenarian Dr. Claudia Wells-Hamilton describes how she lives her life overcoming sometimes immeasurable odds. Issued by Tate Publishing in 2013, Cookies Do Crumble begins expectedly, with her birth in Philadelphia, PA to Bishop Wyoming Wells and Mary Wells and into the close-knit historically African-American Church of God in Christ (COGIC).

Interspersed with relevant biblical scriptures, her story takes readers on a journey through her life as a black woman growing up in the segregated South. Her father ministered in and rose to the highest levels of the COGIC and the Greensboro, North Carolina community where the family settled.

Showing talent in writing and drama in her youth, Claudia acted in local theater, even winning an award.

After graduating from Bennett College, she lived in Washington DC and New York City, struggling to maintain peace and dignity in an abusive marriage by seeking to live up to the charge given by her mother, to “hold your head up, and be somebody.”

And that is exactly what kept young Claudia going, along with a staunch belief in God and an undying respect for her parents and the religious community that supported her. After her divorce from her first husband, she went on to pursue a career in education and furthered her own by attaining both masters and doctoral degrees in English.

She writes of her trials as a graduate student, that she got her “…first gray hair (in the summer of 1962). The pressure was great, and the odds were stacked against me…but I finished with my held high, whole, undefeated with my dignity (intact).”

It is clear that personal struggles never seemed to deter her. She put her own safety on the line during the civil rights struggle in Greensboro. Her second husband died suddenly at a young age of a heart attack, but Claudia kept on going. As a department head, an assistant principal, and a principal in a high needs school in the Detroit

40

The Positive Community Summer 2014

Public Schools system, Wells-Hamilton worked tirelessly, helping her students overcome struggles of their own.

A self-described world-traveler and fashion aficionado, she writes of experiencing the joys of travel with her third husband, Edmond Scott Hamilton. Together they have journeyed to such distant destinations as Hong Kong, France, England, Hawaii, the Mediterranean, Canada, and Puerto Rico, as well as taking family jaunts to historical places in the United States.

A breast cancer survivor, Wells-Hamilton has stood the tests of both personal and professional struggles and outlines each in this must-read for all black women and women in general. Her story is one that personifies the concepts of faith, endurance and dignity, and is sure to encourage her readers in a monumental way. In her foreword, Claudia writes that she uses the metaphor of a cookie—hard outside, sweet inside—to describe how she perceives herself: opinionated and take charge on the outside, but generous, kind, loyal, friendly, and compassionate on the inside. Summing it up… Dr. Claudia Wells-Hamilton is one tough cookie.

She has been on a book tour and recently spoke— actually preached—at the Women’s Day service at Highway and Hedges COGIC in Brooklyn.

Cookies Do Crumble can be purchased at www.amazon. com or on the publisher’s web site at www.tatepublshing. com/bookstore.

Lenora Morton Celebrates 110 Years

L

enora Morton celebrated her 110th Birthday at the Brookhaven Healthcare Center in East Orange, NJ on June 14th with family, friends and her Abyssinian Baptist Church family. Mrs. Morton credits her longevity to her strong faith in God. She enjoys watching ABC News every morning in hopes of catching updates on her favorite president, Barack Obama. A native of South Carolina, Mrs. Morton operated her own hair salon for many years in Newark.

Lenora's grandson, Robert Tourre is on the left (with phone), Longtime family friend, Geraldine Jones and her niece, greatgrandchildren and church family are also in the photo.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Hardworking Jim Harding

BY R.L. WITTER oes the name James Harding ring a bell? While his name and face might not be familiar, for more than forty years, he has been working in one capacity or another for the people of New York and even the people of America.

Harlem born and bred, Harding grew up in the storied days of the Apollo Theater and the legendary shows there.

“Every Friday they had a change of show,” he recalled fondly.

“I used to catch the tail end of the movie and the first show; most shows lasted a week.” Those Friday nights at the Apollo cultivated a lifelong love of music. “I’m a big Motown fan,” Harding revealed. “Growing up I saw all of the Motown acts come through—all of them! There was Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops, The Temptations and Mary Wells.”

His parents, both employed by the City of New York, instilled in their son morals, values, and a desire to help people. With a police detective father and administrative assistant mother, James Harding would grow up knowing the value of education and hard work, and he leveraged them both to create a life and career of which he—and his parents— could be proud.

A product of New York City Public Schools, Harding continued his education at CUNY before taking various positions within the New York City Board of Education, and soon found himself working for the White House. As part of First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s advance team, he traveled America before returning to New York and a string of various positions in the public sector. “My goal has always been to be able to give something back,” he explained. “I want my legacy to be that I’ve always cared about people.”

Harding expressed his care and concern for the people of New York in each position he held from special advisor to the Mayor (Ed Koch) to deputy commissioner at the NYC Fire Department, the Office of the Governor (James Pataki) and his most recent position as vice president of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. While some might think of a career in public service as mundane, Harding’s experiences will tell you otherwise. “When I was special advi-

D

www.thepositivecommunity.com

sor to the Mayor, I played an integral role in some of the racial outbursts in the City of New York — including the Howard Beach incident and the Bensonhurst incident…”

He also co-chaired the Tactical Narcotics Team in 1988 to assist the police commissioner by coordinating other city agencies to work with NYPD to get illegal drugs off the streets. Harding was even nominated for an Emmy Award in 2006. “I was chair of the New York State Martin Luther King Holiday Commission,” he explained. “Every year we did a show… in 2006, I was nominated for an Emmy Award for Best Public Broadcast for that program…”

Beyond the Emmy nomination, Harding had other ties to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. “I once met Coretta Scott King… I was selected by Governor Pataki to go to Atlanta to talk about the legacy of Dr. King,” he recalled. “Her biggest concern was…making sure that young people didn’t forget who Dr. Martin Luther King was and who he stood for…” It was apropos that Harding attended that forum; his “father was the commanding officer of the 28th Detective Squad and led the investigation” after the 1958 assassination attempt on Dr. King at Blumstein’s Department Store. “Tom Brokaw highlighted a news clip of my father escorting Mrs. King into the 28th Precinct.”

One of Harding’s most vivid and haunting experiences as a New York civil servant and the son of an NYPD officer came on September 11, 2001 as he found himself in the Millennium Hilton Hotel with a group of Port Authority Police officers and FBI agents after all civilians had been evacuated. “I didn’t know what had happened outside,” he recalled, “but an FBI agent came running inside saying, ‘You need to take cover!’ Harding, the officers and the federal agents found themselves trapped in the hotel “for what seemed like an eternity, but was probably only 15-20 minutes” as the first tower collapsed. “When we got out of the hotel, we went to another building on Broadway and helped people get out… I helped them get medical supplies from a drug store…” His voice trailed off a bit recalling the events of that day. “In the aftermath of September 11th,” Harding reflected, “I set up a center with several state agencies to provide relief for families who were seeking information… I also represented the Governor and the State of New York at a number of funerals for firefighters and police officers.”

As he winds down his public sector career and prepares to move into the next phase of his life, Harding looks forward to impacting young people as an adjunct professor at Medgar Evers College, where he has taught for more than five years, as well as throughout the CUNY system. His advice to young people looking to move forward and accomplish their goals, “Stay focused and go for your dream.”

The recipient of a CUNY degree in Sociology and honorary doctorate degrees—one from Hofstra University and the other from Medgar Evers College—Harding seems to have achieved the American dream. His civic mindedness has carried over to his personal life where he belongs to or has belonged to several organizations that focus on educating young people and expanding opportunities for people of color.

When asked how he would like himself and his work to be remembered he replied, “Jim Harding did the best that he could to make a difference in the quality of life.” I chuckled as we discussed the fact that Mayor Ed Koch mentioned him in his book The Rebuilding of New York City as “Hardworking Jim Harding.” “That was a high compliment,” Harding agreed, “because there are few people who worked for him that were mentioned in any of his books.”

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

41

JD Livingston Remembered

T

he late JD Livingston was remembered fondly during the memorial service in his honor on May 28, 2014 at the Harlem State Office Building. Community leaders, artists and activists from throughout the region made a special pilgrimage to pay their respects to the man who served as producer for Black Radio legend Imhotep Gary Byrd for many years. Livingston will be remembered as someone who was committed to the advancement of his community. Of JD Livingstone’s life of service and example, it can be truly said: “He who would become greatest among you, let him be the server of all!”

Rev. Dennis Dillon, pastor and publisher of Christian Times

Rev. Al Sharpton

Rev. Herbert Daughtry Historian, Dr. Lenard Jefferies with wife, Rosalind Robinson Jefferies Voza Rivers and Imhotep Gary Byrd

Rev. Dr. Ben Monroe singing “We Need a Positive Community” Jazz flutist Bobbi Humphrey Photos: Debi Jackson, Wali Amin Muhammad

Radio Personality Debi Jackson “Debi B” of WBLS Sunday Classics Imhop with Sis. Betty Dobson of CEMOTAP: Committee to Eliminate Media Offensive to Black People

42

The Positive Community Summer 2014

Former NYC Councilman Charles Baron with Minister Kevin Muhammad www.thepositivecommunity.com

Unity Funeral Chapels, Inc. MEMBER OF THE MFDA & NYSFDA AND THE BBB

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s ons ions low instructions

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Thousands In Gifts and Prizes

�i�st

THE

HARLEM HONOR HISTORY ProVoice/Pro Voz HERSTORY

AWA R D S

6:00-8:00 PM

Monday, September 22, 2014 DONATION:

99 99

General Admission $100 Per Person Corporate $500

GRAN PIATTO D’ORO 1429 FIFTH AVENUE @ E. 117TH STREET Attire: Business

Her Excellency

SuzanJohnsonCook

th Annual Golf Outing An Evening ofCelebration andHonor Annual Annual th th Annual 8.25.2014 th Annual Golf Outing th Golf Outing GolfGolf Outing Faithful, Fearless, Fabulous Outing 8.25.2014 8.25.2014 8.25.2014 8.25.2014

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Follow Route 10 ide ght side right onto Make bffic is on right sideTournament proceeds go toward the on Maldine C. Dowdy Scholarship Fund .lls. t wells.

Cedar Hill Golf & Country Club ght cton right ffic – Caldwells. 100 Walnut St. • Livingston, NJ 07039 ne. affic onMake a right Tel. 973 992 4700 s on at second traffic Cedar ountry Club is on CedarHill HillGolf Golf&&Country CountryClub Club

ProVoice/ProVoz Movement for Women & Associates cordially invites you to

Celebrating Central Harlem’s Wise, Winning Woman Warriors The Wives of Harlem’s Legendary “Gang of 4”

Joyce Dinkins, wife of the first African American Mayor of New York City, David Dinkins Alma Rangel, wife of Congressman Charles Rangel Leatrice Sutton, wife of prominent politician, lawyer and business leader, Percy Sutton Portia Paterson, wife of labor lawyer and the first Black Secretary of State, NY Basil Paterson Community Service awards honoring the Councilwoman Inez E. Dickens The Honorable Maria Luna NY State NAACP President Hazel Dukes

Co-Mistresses of Ceremony Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook And Cheryl Wills NY 1

Board Members Gini Booth Beatrice L. Giscombe

Advisors

Dr. Elizabeth Rios Dr. Carliss McGhee Dr. Thelma Day

Host Committee

Debra Fraser Howze Mercedes Nesfield Eleanor Kennedy Michelle Rodney Elinor Tatum Pamela Palanque North

Partners/ Honorary Committee Members

Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee RP Lewis and Associates Alpine Creative Group Pamela Palanque North

LEADING LADIES & LEGACY

Cedar Hill & Country Club 100 Walnut St. NJNJ 07039 100 Walnut St.• Golf •Livingston, Livingston, 07039 Cedar Hill Golf & Country Club 100 Walnut St. • Livingston, NJ 07039 Tel. 973 992 4700 Tel. 973 992 4700 ProVoice/ProVoz is a 501c 4 organization that amplifies, unifies and multiplies the 100 Walnut St. • Livingston, NJ 07039voices Tel. 973 992 4700 of Black, Latina and Native American women leaders in every sector through celebration, motivation, conversation and voter registration.

Tel. 973 992 4700 EVERY VOICE MATTERS

For tickets go to provoicemovement.com

44

The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

G O O D N E W S F RO M T H E C H U R C H A N D C O M M U N I T Y

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

45

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

Columbia University Salutes the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce on the 40th Anniversary of Harlem Week

HEALTH CARE

EDUCATION

The cultural richness of Harlem, Washington Heights and surrounding neighborhoods is an essential part of what makes Columbia a great place to work and study. The University works with many local organizations to help provide more than 100 programs and services that help improve the quality of life in our community. To learn more, email communityaffairs@columbia.edu or

visit www.neighbors.columbia.edu.

RECREATION

ARTS & CULTURE communityaffairs@columbia.edu neighbors.columbia.edu

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

Don’t miss out on the magic!

August

29

September 19

The Fresh Beat Band • 8/29

Fred Hammond & Donnie McClurkin • 10/3

Haunted Illusions starring David Caserta • 10/26

Wanda Sykes • 9/19

Disney’s Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve • 10/5

Shaping Sound • 11/7

The Fresh Beat Band Wanda Sykes

September 20-21 American Songbook at NJPAC September 21

Willie Nelson

September 28

Lewis Black

October

5

Disney’s Choo Choo Soul with Genevieve and the Choo Choo Dance Crew

October

17

Inside Amy Schumer’s Backdoor Tour

October

17

Jonathan’s Choice: Tierney Sutton

October

18-19 Golda’s Balcony starring Tovah Feldshuh

October

23-26 Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival

October

26

November 1-2

Haunted Illusions starring David Caserta Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody

November 1

Into Sweeney Todd’s Woods

November 7-8

Second City Does New Jersey: Paved and Confused

November 7

Shaping Sound

November 8

Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra

November 9

Metropolitan Opera Rising Stars: Mozart and Company

November 9

Danny Bhoy, comedian

November 13

Jazz and Soul: Fantasia, Philip Bailey, Jose James and the Christian McBride Big Band

November 15

Chris Botti, piano

November 22

SalsaPalooza

November 23

Robeson–Trilogy: An Opera Company

November 28

Patti LaBelle with special guest Will Downing

November 28-30 Evil Dead the Musical

Jazz and Soul featuring Fantasia and more • 11/13

Robeson • 11/23

November 30

Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack DeJohnette

Arts Education at NJPAC! Young Artist Institute After School Performing Arts Training Classes Call today to learn more about classes in Jazz, Modern Dance, Music Theory/Ear Training, Brick City Chorus, Musical Theater Workshop and more!

Patti LaBelle • 11/28

Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock & Jack De Johnette • 11/30

Registration is now open through September 15 973.353.7058 . njpac.org/education. artseducation@njpac.org

Please call our ticket services department to let them know if you require ADA services, particularly if you require wheelchair seating.

One Center Street, Newark, NJ

For tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC Groups of 10 or more: 1-888-MY-NJPAC

youtube.com/njpactv

PositiveCommunity_Summer_7x9.5.indd 1

facebook.com/njpac

twitter.com/njpac

#NJPAC njpac

8/5/14 5:19 PM

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

40th Anniversary & BEYOND

Classic performance from HARLEM WEEK at Grant's Tomb

A

s you read this, you may have already missed the fabulous opening moments of HARLEM WEEK 2014 (I hope not), but since the "WEEK" stretches over an entire month, there are still numerous events and activities to educate and entertain, which has been the essence of HARLEM WEEK since its inception in 1974.

Stop for a moment. What do you remember about 1974? Well, “Jungle Boogie” by Kool and the Gang was big then, and attendees at HARLEM WEEK’s “A Great Day in Harlem” had their memories refreshed with a tribute to Kool and the Gang called “It’s a Celebration.” Eddie Kendrick’s “Boogie Down” was also up on the charts, and the Stylistics were making everyone “feel brand new.”

Some vibrant remnants of the past when the annual celebration began as HARLEM DAY still resonate today.

Councilman Fred E. Samuel is no longer with us, but there is Councilwoman Inez Dickens, whose father, former Assemblyman Hon. Lloyd E. Dickens, along with Hope R. Stevens, Esq., former president of, what was then The Uptown Chamber of Commerce, were instrumental under the leadership of Hon. Percy Sutton, Max Roach, Ossie Davis, Maya Angelou, Ruby Dee, Tito Puente, Hal Jackson, Frankie Crocker, and Congressman Charles Rangel in getting this festival underway and passing the baton to Lloyd Williams, Voza Rivers, Stephanie Francis, Tony Rogers, and Joseph Roberts, Sr. A few of the celebrants at the “Elders’ Jubilee” will no doubt recall when LaRoque Bey’s dance troupe thrilled the audiences in the same way “Dancing in the Street” did in previous years.

Reflections on the past resound this year, none more exciting than the Salute to Quincy Jones and his creation of Back on the Block at “Summer in the City”on Saturday, August 16th, or the tribute to the O’Jays and their historic recording of Family Reunion, on HARLEM DAY, Sunday, August 17th.

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

BY HERB BOYD Looking back also includes memorable political milestones and HARLEM WEEK appropriately salutes the 50th anniversary of the historic signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, as well as the martyrdom of Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner and James Chaney, who were slain in Mississippi by members of the Ku Klux Klan during Freedom Summer. Their deaths were among the tragedies that gave impetus to President Johnson’s signing the Civil Rights Act that year.

The convergence of civil rights and Harlem’s great history is remembered at the Percy E. Sutton Harlem 5K Run and will provide participants with fond memories as they continue to shape and tone their bodies, something many of them began during the WEEK’s “Our Health Village” on Sunday, August 17th.

As Harlem’s peerless author Ralph Ellison once wrote, “past is prologue.” This year’s HARLEM WEEK remembers a coterie of icons—James Baldwin, Tito Puente, Duke Ellington, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Ruby Dee, Elombe Brath, Hon. Basil A. Paterson, and the Harlem Globetrotters. Their contributions are highlighted throughout the month.

They say that life begins at40, but that does not apply to HARLEM WEEK, which has been doing its thing long before that venerable age, and there’s every indication, given the rhythm emanating for JazzMobile, The Dance Theater of Harlem, The Caribbean Cultural Center, and the new and vintage cars at the Upper Manhattan Auto Show on Sunday, August 17th, it will be doing it much longer. And, who knows, a month may soon evolve into two months or more.

This year’s HARLEM WEEK is bundled under the theme: “Forever Harlem—Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” and no matter what day you choose to join the celebrants that moment will stay on your calendar of mementos—that is until it’s repeated next year. www.thepositivecommunity.com

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

USE YOUR PHONE TO LIVE HEALTHIER IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD. Ready to upgrade to a healthier you? Simply turn on your phone and download the Small Steps to a Healthier You app. Find healthy resources in the neighborhood, set goals, count steps, track your daily water intake, and earn fun badges to help you succeed on your journey to healthier living.

Visit smallsteps.emblemhealth.com and get the app today.

Group Health Incorporated (GHI), HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP), HIP Insurance Company of New York and EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC are EmblemHealth companies. EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC provides administrative services to the EmblemHealth companies.

Neighborhood Care is a division of EmblemHealth. ŠEmblemHealth Inc. 2014, All Rights Reserved.

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

HARLEM WEEK 2014 Salutes the Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run and NYC Walk In Tribute to the 50th Anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act on August 23rd

NYS NAACP President Hazel Dukes with Mike Woods, Fox5 News (left) and Geoffrey Eaton at the HARLEM WEEK NYC Walk Members of the NYS NAACP get ready to lead HARLEM WEEK'S NYC Walk

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ercy Sutton was a man of many titles—chairman of Inner City Broadcasting Corporation and the Apollo Theatre, Manhattan Borough President, attorney (for Malcolm X), Tuskegee Airman, chairman of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, and cofounder of HARLEM WEEK, Inc. were just a few. However, a title that he cherished was Spingarn Award-winner as a lifetime member of the NAACP. In tribute to the NAACP, on Saturday, August 23rd, HARLEM WEEK’s 2014 Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run & NYC Walk will salute the 50th Anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The event will honor slain Civil Rights heroes James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner, and promote the continued historic importance of membership in and support for the NAACP. “As we celebrate HARLEM WEEK’s 40th anniversary, it’s important to recognize the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act ten years before the beginning of HARLEM WEEK and the leadership role played by the NAACP in bringing about this historic legislation,” said Lloyd Williams, co-founder of HARLEM WEEK and president/CEO of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. “We are requesting that all participate in supporting the important works, past, present and future of the NAACP,” Williams continued. “We are making this request with the highest respect for the need to continue the ongoing struggle to protect and defend civil rights for all.”

HARLEM WEEK urges attendees at the run and walk

50

The Positive Community Summer 2014

BY FERN GILLESPIE

to become involved with the NAACP. There will be an NAACP booth onsite to encourage participants to become members, make contributions or volunteer and mentor at the organization.

Judge Laura Blackburne, publisher of NAACP’s The Crisis, the organization’s official publication, stated that one of the great benefits of membership in the NAACP is that it includes a subscription to the publication. The Crisis was founded by W.E.B. DuBois in 1910 and is the longest continually published African American magazine in the nation.

Highlights of HARLEM WEEK’s 40th anniversary include: August 7: “NY City Economic Development Day” international business conference and its health conference; August 14-17: HARLEM WEEK Junior Tennis Classic; August 16: “Summer in the City” Historic Black Colleges and Universities Fair & Expo; August 16-17: NYC Children’s Festival, fashion shows and concerts; August 17: HARLEM DAY features outdoor Upper Manhattan Auto Show, a health fair, small business expo and four stages of music, dance, arts & culture.

The route for The Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run & NYC Walk saluting the 50th Anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act goes through Historic Harlem. It will be begin at St. Nicholas Park on West 135th Street and St. Nicholas Ave. The Run begins at 8:30am. The Walk begins at 9:30am. Following the Walk, there will be a musical salute to the 105th anniversary of the NAACP from 12noon – 2:00pm. For more info: www.harlemweek.com. www.thepositivecommunity.com

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

Harlem Week In Concert With NYC & Company Launches The Harlem Music Fest

The Harlem Music Fest will feature many entertaining performances like this.

BY MARKO NOBLES R&B Star Michelle Williams performs with Ray Chew on HARLEM DAY

T

his year as HARLEM WEEK celebrates its 40th anniversary, the HARLEM WEEK Committee, with an eye toward the future, proudly launched the 1st Harlem Music Fest. The Harlem Music Fest is an annual, expansive four-week music and cultural festival that encompasses the varied genres of entertainment that are and have been celebrated in the Harlems of the world throughout the years.

The Harlem Music Fest is jazz, R&B, gospel, hip-hop, Latin, Caribbean, classical, soul, nightclubs, Broadway theater, world music, amateur hour, history, and of course HARLEM DAY. The Harlem Music Fest is also dance, music films and more. The Harlem Music Fest will every year grow and salute the culture that has made and continues to make Harlem the cultural capital of the African Diaspora.

The Harlem Music Fest will be showcased in Harlem and other sections of New York, as well as Newark's New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). The festival will be showcased and promoted with various television, radio and print coverage throughout the region, nationally and internationally.

Key partners include Harlem Arts Alliance, Harlem Summerstage, NYC & Company, I Love NY, Jazzmobile, WBLS-FM, WLIB-AM, HOT-97FM, WBGO-FM, Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and many others. Some of this year’s participants and performers include Audra McDonald from Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, Freddie Jack-

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son, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Doug E. Fresh, Bobbie Humphrey, the cast of MOTOWN the Musical, 3-Time TONY AWARD winner Hinton Battle, New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Jazz For Kids, New York Philharmonic, Dave Hollister, Tank, The Award Winning Casym Steel Pan Orchestra and many others.

More than 50 music events will take place at more than 16 upper Manhattan locations with over 60 featured, established and emerging crowd-pleasing artists.

“This is an event that will leave a legacy for generations, promoting the history and culture of Harlem” says Lloyd Williams, chairman, HARLEM WEEK and cofounder of Harlem Music Fest.

This year’s launch of the Harlem Music Fest coincides with HARLEM WEEK taking place from July 24th through August 23rd and includes some of the HARLEM WEEK events and those of partners such as Imagenation/HARLEM WEEK Outdoor Music Film Festival, Abyssinian Jazz Vespers, Dance Theater of Harlem, The Apollo Theater and U.S. Grant National Memorial Park among others.

The restaurants and nightclubs of Harlem are featured as well with events at Sylvia’s, Minton’s, Ginny’s Supper Club, Showman’s Jazz Club, Londel’s Supper Club, Dinosaur Barbeque and more.

The Harlem Music Fest is a celebration of Harlem’s musical history and culture. Harlem is home to people from many backgrounds and everyone who attends will be able to say, “The Harlem Music Fest IS my music.”

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

51

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

JULY

THURSDAY • 7TH 10 AM - 5 PM

SATURDAY • 26th 11 AM - 9 PM

Festival Santiago Apostol de Loiza a El Barrio

Afro Puerto Rican foods and musicians take to the streets in this cultural celebration.

East Harlem - E. 104th St. bet. Lexington and Park Aves. www.cccadi.org

SUNDAY • 27TH 12 NOON - 8:30PM

“A Great Day In Harlem” Saluting the “Sounds of

Motown & Philly" MUSIC THEME: “IT’S

A CELEBRATION” - IN TRIBUTE TO KOOL AND THE GANG

U.S. Grant National Memorial Park W. 122nd St. and Riverside Drive

Part I • 1PM – 3PM “Arts, Rootz & Rhythm” Cultural Showcase Featuring local & global dance, song and choral groups

Part II • 3PM – 4:15PM

Our Gospel Caravan Featuring Bishop Hezekiah Walker Part III • 4:30PM – 5:30PM Fashion Fusion Showcase Showcasing the best in urban fashions

Part IV • 5:45PM – 8:30PM

“A Concert Under the Stars” Featuring “Motown

the Musical” & Harold Melvin's Blue Notes with guest performances

Part V • 11 AM – 8 PM

Arts & Crafts Village and Foods, Bev. & Clothing Exhibitors THURSDAYS, July 31 • 5:30 PM

SUMMER STAGE in HARLEM R&B Night featuring R&B greats & DJ’s On the Plaza • A. C. Powell, Jr. State Bldg.

W. 125th St. & A C. Powell Jr. Blvd. www.harlemsummerstage.info

AUGUST FRIDAY • 1st 6:00 PM

FIRST FRIDAYS! at Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture Start each new month with First Fridays at the Schomburg, a popular monthly social gathering that welcomes the community with music and dancing. Exhibition galleries will be open late. Free www.nypl.org/locations/schomburg

SATURDAY • 2nd 12 Noon

Renaming of E. 128th St. Between 5th & Madison Avenues in honor of the great James Baldwin TUESDAY • 5TH 9:30 AM – 3 PM

NYC Senior Citizens Day

“Elder’s Jubilee” Indoor / Outdoor Expo & Farmers Market • Senior Expo and Awards Luncheon Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Bldg.

125th Street & A. C. Powell, Jr. Blvd.

“Dancing In the Street”

9:30AM - 11:30AM Business/Tourism&HealthConferences 10AM - 3PM Indoor Business/Services Expo 12Noon - 2PM NY City Business Award Luncheon 10AM - 5PM Outdoor Farmer’s Market Columbia University – 116th- 114th & Broadway

Arts, Crafts, Fashions & Foods Village on W. 135th St. (bet. Malcolm X to F. Douglass Blvds.)

to R&B, Reggae & Swing on W. 135th St. bet. F. Douglas Blvd. & St. Nicholas Ave. Site IV • 3:00 PM – 4 PM

The Fabulous Fashion

Flava Show

Site V • 1 PM - 7 PM

St. Nicholas Main Stage Saluting a Family Reunion

Featuring the best in Urban fashion, designs & models on W. 135th St. bet. F. Douglas Blvd. & St. Nicholas Ave.

Latin, R& B, Hip Hop, Jazz & Dance

Site V • 4 PM – 5 PM

“Uptown Saturday”

WEDNESDAY • 20TH 7:30 PM

Malcolm X Blvd. Bet. W. 126th & 127th Street

THURSDAY • 7TH 5:30 PM

Featuring the Jeff Fox Band & R&B Greats with tributes to

Salutes HARLEM WEEK

THURSDAY • 7TH 10AM CELEBRATE THE 52ND ANNIVERSARY

SYLVIA’S Restaurant

SUMMER STAGE in HARLEM AFRICA NIGHT featuring African Music & DJ’s On the Plaza • A. C. Powell, Jr. State Bldg.

W. 125th St. & A C. Powell Jr. Blvd. www.harlemsummerstage.info

Saturday • 9TH 12:00 NOON – 7:00 PM

Dance Theatre of Harlem Street Festival

Quincy Jones on the St. Nicholas Stage, on W. 135th St. bet. F. Douglas Blvd. & St. Nicholas Ave.

Arts, Crafts, Fashions & Foods Village Featuring arts & crafts, music, clothing, jewelry, hats, Sculptures, Foods, Job Recruitment, Product Sampling, and Corporate Exhibits on W. 135th St. bet. Malcolm X to F. Douglass Blvds.

Site VII • 7PM -10PM

SATURDAY • 9TH 4 PM – 7 PM

in

presents

“Great Jazz on the Great Hill” Outdoor Jazz concert on the Great Hill of Central Park presenting Wycliffe Gordon a celebration of Big Band Jazz and Swing Dancing.

Central Park West Side from 103rd to 107th Sts. www.jazzmobile.org

WEDNESDAY • 13TH 7:30 PM

Amateur Night

Salutes HARLEM WEEK 253 W. 125th St. www.AmateurNight.org

HARLEM WEEK/

1 PM – 7 PM

HARLEM WEEK Tri-State Junior Tennis Classic

The Wiz

SUNDAY • 17th 12Noon – 7PM

HARLEM DAY Site I

- IN TRIBUTE TO THE O’JAYS

• Upper Manhattan Auto

25th Anniversary

Show

featuring classic, vintage and the newest cars, as well as motorcycles and historic buses •

LATIN NIGHT featuring Latin Music & DJ’s On the Plaza • A. C. Powell, Jr. State Bldg.

W. 125th St. & A C. Powell Jr. Blvd. www.harlemsummerstage.info

•

Upper Manhattan Small Business Expo & Fair

“Summer in the City”

USTA / HARLEM WEEK Family Tennis Clinics & Exhibitions

SATURDAY • 16th 12 Noon – 8PM

At Howard Bennett Playground W. 135th St. (bet. 5th Ave. & Malcolm X Blvd.)

•

5th Avenue Stage • 1 PM – 7 PM

Featuring Caribean, Gospel, Jazz &

“BACK ON THE BLOCK” JONES

A Night of Jazz featuring Jazz greats & DJ’s On the Plaza • A. C. Powell, Jr. State Bldg.

W. 125th St. & A C. Powell Jr. Blvd. www.harlemsummerstage.info

SATURDAY • 23rd

Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run at 8:30 AM

& NYC Walk Saluting The 50th Anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act at 9:30 AM James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner

A 5K Run & Walk through Historic Harlem In honor of the historic efforts which allowed for the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Starts at St. Nicholas Park at W.135th Street SATURDAY • 23RD 1 PM - 6 PM

Golden Hoops

With Each One Teach One featuring the best in NY City High School basketball from throughout the5 boroughs Girls & boys championship games & other special exhibition games at RUCKER PARK W. 155th Street & Frederick Douglass Blvd.,

HARLEM WEEK/

2014

OUTDOOR MUSIC FILM FESTIVAL Featuring the sites and sounds of the Caribbean

The Harder They Come & Rockers On The Great Lawn of St. Nicholas Park W. 135th St. & St. Nicholas Ave. www.imagenation.us

Our Partner Events NY State Farmers Market & Fair FRIDAYS • 1st • 8TH • 15TH • 22ND 10 AM - 4 PM TUESDAYS • 5TH • 12TH • 19TH 10 AM - 4 PM Fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, baked goods, herbs, oils, etc. With Live Cooking Demos by Selected Chefs On the Plaza • A. C. Powell, Jr. State Bldg.

W. 125th St. & A C. Powell Jr. Blvd. www.125thstreetfarmersmarket.com

Battle of the DJ’s and Martial Arts W. 135th St. (bet. 5th Ave. & Malcolm X Blvd.)

on W. 135th St. bet. Malcolm X Blvd. & St. Nicholas Ave

Site II • 12 NOON - 5 PM Outdoor at Harlem Hospital Mural Pavilion

Site I • 12 NOON – 5PM

•

NY City Children’s Festival (Day I)

THURSDAY 31 • 5:30 PM

SATURDAY • 23th 7 PM - 10 PM

10 AM - 4 PM

SUMMER STAGE in HARLEM

- IN TRIBUTE TO QUINCY

“IT’S A FAMILY REUNION”

10 AM - 4 PM

THURSDAY • 14TH 5:30 PM

253 W. 125th St. www.AmateurNight.org

Honoring Slain Civil Rights Heroes

On The Great Lawn of St. Nicholas Park W. 135th St. & St. Nicholas Ave.

on W. 135th St. (bet. 5th Ave. & Malcolm X Blvd.)

Showcasing the best boys & girls tennis talents in the region from 12 to 18 years of age. at Fred Johnson Park W. 150th St. & Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd.,Manhattan and Mill Pond Park Tennis Courts Exterior St. & East 150th St., Bronx www.hjtep.org

MUSIC THEME:

2014

OUTDOOR MUSIC FILM FESTIVAL - Featuring Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor & Diana Ross

MUSIC THEME:

THURSDAY • 14TH thru SUNDAY • 17TH

Amateur Night

SUMMER STAGE in HARLEM

Site VI • 12NOON - 5PM

Outdoor festival featuring performance showcases, arts & crafts, vendors, food and entertainment.

W. 152nd St. from Amsterdam Ave. to St. Nicholas Ave. www.dancetheatreofharlem.org

on W. 135th St. bet. F. Douglas Blvd. & St. Nicholas Ave.

Our Health Village

Health testing, education and information bet. W. 136th St. & W. 137th St. and Malcolm X Blvd.

WEDNESDAYS • 6TH • 13TH • 20TH 7 PM With great established & emerging musicians and jazz vocalists U.S. Grant National Memorial Park W. 122nd St. and Riverside Dr. www.jazzmobile.org

FRIDAY • 8TH • 22ND 7:00 PM

Site III • 12 NOON - 6 PM

UPTOWN FRIDAYS!

•

WEDNESDAY • 6TH 7:30 PM

Featuring exhibits, games, arts & crafts, live music, dance, free health testing, exhibits, and sports clinics W. 135th St. (bet. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell, Jr. Blvds.)

On Fridays in Harlem • explore current exhibitions with free guided tours and dance to great music at the Museum.

Salutes HARLEM WEEK

Site II • 12NOON - 5PM

on W. 135th St. (bet. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell Jr., Blvds.)

Over 60 historic Black colleges, universities, public,

• On the

Amateur Night

253 W. 125th St. www.AmateurNight.org

MUSIC THEME:

“I BELIEVE I CAN FLY” - R. KELLY

Historic Black College Fair private, city and state colleges, and educational programs will distribute information on admissions, scholarships and financial aid W. 135th St. (bet. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell Jr., Blvds.)

--

Site IV • 12 NOON - 7 PM

Site III• 1 PM - 3:00 PM Everyone will be

NY City Economic Development Day

NYC “Children’s Festival” (Day 2)

MUSIC THEME: “I BELIEVE I CAN FLY” - R. KELLY SEE DAY ONE

YMCA Stage 12 NOON to 6PM

& Free Sundays on 10TH • 17TH 12 Noon - 6 PM with Gallery Tours and Kids & Family Programs The Studio Museum in Harlem FREE • 144 W. 125th Street • www.studiomuseum.org

Dance, Jazz, Spoken Word, Hip-Hop, R&B & “Dress for Success” A “Back to School” Children’s Fashion

For info on Corporate

Show. New York Philharmonic Youth

at (212) 862-8477 or email Btate@harlemdiscover.com: wmajette@harlemdiscover.com

on W. 135th St. (bet. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell Jr., Blvds.)

Exhibiting, Individual Vending or Sponorship call Bob Tate or W. Majette Priinted by Patanepress.com

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

The plan of choice for nearly half a million New Yorkers.

WHAT’S YOUR PLAN? Call 1.855.809.4073 M E T R O P L U S . O R G

Find us on Facebook and Twitter under MetroPlus Health.

MetroPlus is partners with

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

HARLEM WEEK at Lincoln Center

Audra McDonald, star of Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill

Photos: Seitu Oronde

Harlem Week 1st Vice Chairman Voza Rivers with Chairman Lloyd Williams, Harlem Week, and Terrence McKnight, WQXR-FM Radio announcer

H

arlem Week 40th Anniversary Kick-Off Reception at Avery Fisher Hall.

L–R: Marcy McCall, Community Relations, EmblemHealth; Audra McDonald, Amsterdam News Publisher Elinor Tatum; actor Daniel Beatty and Willie Williams, Harlem State Office Building manager

L–R: Deion Levington, SVP Emmis Broadcasting with Robin Bell Stevens, CEO Jazzmobile

Victory for Charlie Rangel!

David Dinkins, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, Congressman Rangel and friends and supporters

Standing with Congressman Rangel, Rev. Calvin O. Butts III

54

The Positive Community Summer 2014

Photos: Seitu Oronde

NYC Councilmember Inez Dickens (holding sign) offers congratulations

www.thepositivecommunity.com

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

Students from the Dream Center, winners of the “Entertaining Cooking Demonstration” category.

Teens Battle for Bragging Rights as Chefs at the Schomburg

EmblemHealth and Manhattan Links Sponsor Healthy Cooking Competition Photos: Seitu Oronde

Students from Democracy Prep, winners of the “Culinary Artistry” category.

T

Celebrity judges Izabela Wojcik of the James Beard Foundation, Chef Alexander Smalls of The Cecil restaurant and Minton’s Playhouse in Harlem, Food Network personality Ellie Krieger with hosts Chuck Nice and Joel Allette, a Teen Battle Chef alumnus.

hough one can find information about historic battles at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, you would not think to attend a battle there. However, on Thursday , June 12, 2014, such a happening did occur: The battle for bragging rights in the Teen Battle Chef Live.

Sponsored by Emblem Health and the Manhattan Chapter of the Links, Inc., the event, the culmination of an eight-week culinary course, featured two teams of students ages 12-17 in a race against the clock to prepare a meal, then describe its cultural background and nutritional value.

The teams, from Democracy Prep Middle School and the Dream Center, a selfsustaining multigenerational extension of First Corinthian Baptist Church, both in Harlem chose to prepare Korean cuisine.

Democracy Prep made Bibimbap, a dish consisting of rice mixed with meat, fresh vegetables, a poached egg and chili pepper paste. The Dream Center prepared a Korean hot pot, a soup made with a spicy broth, fresh vegetables, mussels and clams. First Lady of the City of New York Chirlane McCray, who greeted the students and audience, stressed the importance of eating healthy and congratulated the students on their achievements. “By teaching teens to cook food that is healthy and delicious, we can help ad-

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dress the type 2 diabetes and childhood obesity epidemics in our city,” remarked Michelle Paige, director of integrative wellness, EmblemHealth Hosts comedian Chuck Nice and Joel Allette, a Teen Battle Chef alumnus and former contestant on the Food Network’s Chopped, kept the crowd and the students entertained as the battle raged on. The neck-and-neck competition ended in a tie. By audience vote, Democracy Prep won the “Culinary Artistry” category, with the Dream Center winning for “Entertaining Cooking Demo.” Celebrity judges Chef Alexander Smalls of The Cecil restaurant and Minton’s Playhouse in Harlem, Food Network personality Ellie Krieger, and Izabela Wojcik of the James Beard Foundation praised the students for their creative cooking, presentation skills, and ability to compete under pressure.

Students who represented the Dream Center were Nickaya Craddock, Poori Shai Howell, Chaz Gant, and Alexis Montague. Democracy Prep chefs were Ziyadah Zeigler, Samantha Egel, Justin Cepeda, Edmilton Rozon and Crystal Cowan. The Culinary Brigade, which passed out the recipe samples, included Litzy Adams, Elizabeth Mercado, Steven Bartlett, Junior Nkemegong, Tyrell Carrillo, Jr., and Hamzah Neequaye “Teen Battle Chef Live” was produced and directed by FamilyCook Productions.

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

55

HARLEM WEEK SPECIAL SECTION

EMMIS COMMUNICATIONS, NYC

CONGRATULATES HARLEM WEEK on their

40th Anniversary and the continued partnership with our company.

Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Photos: Lem Peterkin

The naming of the football field NELSON MANDELLA FIELD

L–R: Al Vann, Mayor David Dinkins and Rev. Herbert Daughtry

Boys & Girls H.S. Students Honor Nelson Mandela

E

very year on Mandela Day, July 18, people around the world are asked by the Nelson Mandela Foundation to devote 67 minutes of their time—one minute for every year of public service that Mr. Mandela gave to his country and ultimately the world. The concept is that if people make this small gesture giving one hour and seven minutes in solidarity with others in a global movement, the world can be a better place.

At Brooklyn’s Boys and Girls High School, students participated in several service projects including: clean up and planting of the school garden, painting the perimeter fence, and landscaping the school’s front yard.

Highlights of the day were the planting and dedication of the Mandela Tree and a 67-minute Peace Walk.

A ceremony renaming the Boys & Girls High School athletic field in honor of Nelson Mandela featured remarks from Principal Bernard Gassaway of Boys and Girls High School and a delegation from South Africa that included the Speaker of the South African Parliament Hon. Baleke Mbete, South African Ambassador to the United Nations Kingsley Mamabolo and the South African Consul General George Monyemangene.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Community Students Painting B&G Front Fence

Planting of a Cherry tree in Honor of Nelson Mandela Summer 2014 The Positive Community

57

�oora�

Graduates! for the

Rev. Jennifer Berry-McNulty of Solebury UMC, New Hope, PA received Master of Divinity

Drew University Theological School Madison, NJ Saturday May 17, 2014

Rev. Dr. Debra Banks, an AME Minister, and Dr. Debra Bradshaw, an associate prelate, are 2014 Doctor of Ministry graduates

E

58

Rev. Rodney Lynch, a Baptist minister from Hillsborough, received a Master of Divinity degree

very year The Positive Community celebrates those who reach for and attain higher education.

The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

PosComm-HPOGAd-FullPg.qxp 7/1/14 1:29 PM Page 1

• Earn your degree or credentialed certification • Tutoring and mentoring provided • Students must meet income and • Funding for tuition, books, childcare, transportation other criteria and other educational expenses may be available

Choose from 17 in-demand careers: • Administrative Medical Assistant • Billing & Coding (CERS) • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant • Registered Dental Hygienist • Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor • Certified EKG/Telemetry Technician

• Certified Home Health Aide • Certified Nursing Assistant • Diagnostic Radiographer • Diagnostic Medical Sonographer • Registered Nurse • Certified Patient Care Technician

• Certified Pharmacy Technician • Certified Phlebotomy Technician • Respiratory Therapist • Certified Sterile Processing Technician • Certified Surgical Technologist

For more information on eligibility, please call (201) 689-7045 or HPOG@bergen.edu

HEA

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•P AT

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This Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) is a demonstration project funded by the Administration for Children and Families, US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Grant Number 90FX0001. In order to learn what works, we are participating in a study to determine how these training opportunities help people improve their skills and find better jobs. During the study, eligible applicants will be selected by a computerized lottery system; only those selected will receive funding and services through HPOG. Those not selected may enroll in these classes, and have their education funded through other programs for which they may be determined to be eligible. The above courses, and this advertisement, are solely the responsibility of the authors/colleges and do not necessarily represent the official views of HHS.

N

Felician College Rochelle Hendricks (left), New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education, received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Felician College president Dr. Anne M. Prisco at the 2014 commencement exercises

Felician College President Dr. Anne M. Prisco (center) celebrates commencement with graduating seniors and Sister Rosita Brennan, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.

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Graduates! for the

Graduating seniors are all smiles through their last day as Felician College students.

More than 540 students received diplomas on May 18, 2014

Rutgers University School of Business

J

oyful graduates of the Rutgers University School of Business Class of 2014, following the conferring of the Professional Master of Business Administration (PMBA) degree.

L-R: (in front): Cinthia Maldonado, MBA; Nicole Augustus, MBA; Kaylyn Kendall Dines, MBA; Jayashri Deshaboina, MBA; Vionette James, MBA; From left to right (standing in the back): Delisha Pellot, CPA, MBA and Wadeeha Jackson, MBA.

60

The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

WELCOME TO THE

LARGEST PUBLIC COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE NORTHEAST

NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

CITY TECH www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.citytech.cuny.edu/summer 300 Jay Street • Brooklyn, NY 11201

718.260.5500 Summer 2014 The Positive Community

61

�oora�

Graduates! for the

M.Div. graduate John Chen and family

New Brunswick Theological Society

N

ew Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) conferred 26 degrees­–4 Master of Arts, 20 Master of Divinity and 2 Doctor of Ministry at our 2014 Commencement Ceremony held at Kirkpatrick Chapel of Rutgers University.

Rev. Dr. Gabriel A. Salguero delivers a memorable commencement speech to all at NBTS. We thank him for his many blessings and words of encouragement.

L–R: M.Div. graduate Vivian Thomas McClain with Rev. Kevin Smallwood.

L–R: Seminary student Sandie Beresford and husband, M.Div. graduate Bud Beresford.

Plainfield High School Plainfield High School Plainfield, NJ

Dr. Warren Dennis, director of the DMin. Program and their adviser Dr. Raynard Smith congratulate Rev. Dr. Christine Snowden-Caton and Rev. Dr. Warren Wilcox who completed the Doctor in Ministry program.

62

The Positive Community Summer 2014

Michael Green Sports: Football and wrestling Award: First annual Steven Council Leadership Award College: Kean University Career Goal: Athletic Trainer for professional sports team

www.thepositivecommunity.com

HARLEM EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES FUND is celebrating 25 years of transforming students’ lives academically, socially and psychologically.

From the moment students walk through HEAF’s doors,

they know that college and graduate school are their future.

Because College is the Rule at HEAF; we have unmatched results: 100% of our students graduate from high school and 100% pursue higher education.

Join us in helping the Harlem community by turning high-potential but underserved New York City public school students into high-achieving scholars and college graduates.

To learn more about our supplemental education, youth leadership programs and how they benefit the Harlem community, visit us at www.heaf.org.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

O

L–R: Bro. Brian Harris, co-committee chair, Bro. Dwayne (Spaz) Benjamin, and Bro. Damon Williams

L–R: Talia L. Young, asst. VP Public & Government Relations, City National Bank with NJ State Senator Ronald Rice L–R: Bro. William S. Parrish, Jr., co-chair, Bro. Walter K. Frye, MBA, CPA, Bro. Olin Jackson, chapter basileus and Bro. Joseph C. Rouse, Sr.

Photos: Karen Waters

n June 7, 2014, the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Eta Pi Chapter hosted its 29th Annual Scholarship Gala at the Wilshire Grand Hotel in West Orange, NJ. It was an elegant, funfilled evening of great food, dancing and fellowship.

The event is designed to support the fraternity’s outreach efforts in the communities they serve, particularly to support those who desire to further their education. The theme continues to be Scholastic Uplift for Today’s Youth, supporting young people as they climb.

In his remarks, Eta Pi Chapter Basileus Olin Jackson stated “Our chapter, and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. remain steadfastly committed to providing meaningful scholarships to young people in our community. Your presence tonight illustrates your commitment to this essential objective as well.”

L–R: Bro. Charles D. Craig, Esq., Omega Man of the Year with Jean Nash Wells and Adrian Council of The Positive Community

L–R: Dr. Andrew A. Ray, 39th grand basileus and Bro. Olin Jackson, Eta Pi basileus

Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Eta Pi Chapter

L–R: Wesley Jenkins, executive director of Babyland Services with Tai Cooper, chief Policy advisor, to Newark Mayorelect Ras Baraka

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Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Eta Pi Chapter

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Business School Student Wins $5,000 Award MSU Junior is First to Win Promise Prize

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landa Courtney Alexandre is the first Montclair State student to win the $5,000 Marie Nesbitt Promise Prize. The prize is awarded to a black entrepreneurship or business student who has achieved academic excellence and embodies the qualities of leadership, scholarship, initiative, service and entrepreneurship. The prize was first established in 2002 by Vikki Pryor, founder of the Change Create Transform Foundation. The prize was created in memory of Pryor’s grandmother, Marie Nesbitt, who was a great granddaughter of slaves and held jobs ranging from domestic worker to welder and shipping clerk. Nesbitt was also an accomplished writer, photographer and chef. She inspired family and friends to reach for the stars, stand up for what they believe, and never give up.

The Promise Prize is also awarded annually at Bronx Community College, State University of New York at Buffalo, University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Iowa. Pryor is involved in business and philanthropic efforts in communities across the country, and founded

L–R: Alanda Alexandre and Vikki Pryor

the Change Create Transform Foundation in 2010 as part of her commitment to the community.

The prize was presented to Alexandre at the School of Business Faculty/Staff Recognition Lunch. Alexandre is a junior pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and Management Information Systems and a minor in Mathematics. She has a 3.6 GPA through fall 2013. Alexandre is fluent in French and Creole, and conversational in Spanish. Juggling four jobs on campus hasn’t stopped Alexandre from getting involved in a host of extra-curricular activities, some of which are: vice president of events of National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Education Opportunity Fund conference, Newman Catholic Center, Sinatra Hall Council secretary and basketball intramurals.

Alexandre was selected by a committee that included School of Business Dean Brent Chrite, Accounting professor Agatha Jeffers, Economics and Finance professor Hermann Sintim-Aboagye, and Sharon Waters, program manager of the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship.

Touro College TouroCOM graduated 128 Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine at the Apollo on June 2nd 2014

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Graduates! for the

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Keynote speaker John McMichael

Photos: Lem Peterkin

Salutatorian Brandon Jones

Alfred Porter, lll Triumphant Award winner

BY EULENE INNISS Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams

Brooklyn President Addresses Benjamin Banneker Academy Graduates

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enjamin Banneker Academy held its 17th Annual Commencement Ceremony at Brooklyn College’s Walt Whitman Hall on the last day of the school year, June 26th, in a ceremony that is sure to be etched forever in the minds of all those who attended.

Benjamin Banneker Academy, a District13 high school located in the Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn, serves students in grades 9-12 and has a ratio of approximately 23 students to each full-time teacher. The school was named after Benjamin Banneker, the son of a former slave. He was a farmer, author, scientist, mathematician, astronomer, publisher and urban planner/surveyor. Hired as part of the three-man team to survey the area for the District of Columbia, the new seat of the U.S. Government, Banneker saved the day when the architect in charge, Pierre L’Enfant, was fired and took all of the plans with him, by recreating the plans from memory.

This graduation showcased a pride of culture, intelligence and the unquestionable integrity of young people and future leaders who are living up to the high standards set by Benjamin Banneker.

Borough President Eric Adams thanked Principal Deonca Renee and the staff for “giving the scholars a private school education in a public school setting” and was so impressed by the poise, speech and achievements

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of Salutatorian Brandon Jones that he offered him an internship at Borough Hall.

In his moving, four-point message Adams implored the graduates, “… to be global in” their thoughts. “You are not metrocard leaders, you are passport leaders,” he continued. “Choose your friends carefully; find others comparable to who you are. Having no vision is worse than having no sight. Vision comes from the heart. Be bold, be you, pave your own way. Be a visionary and find the beauty of diversity. Explore! It develops true personhood. I went from breaking the law at age 15, to enforcing the law as a police captain and finally to writing the law as a senator in Albany,” he concluded.

Assistant Principal Clive Pryce boasted that during the 11 years of his tenure, 95% of the 186 graduates had been accepted to colleges across the country and attributed this achievement to “the hard-working team and their dedication to success.” Alfred Porter, III, the Triumphant Award winner, exemplified the Banneker spirit. He will attend Delaware State University in the fall and plans to be a Business major with a concentration in Entertainment and Performing Arts. Alfred is active in his community and has received over $7,000 in scholarships from the Historic Bethany Baptist Church in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Several www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Brandon Garcia, 2014 Student of the Year, giving acceptance speech

L–R: David Cohen, executive VP, Comcast Corporation (holding placque) with EBF graduates L-R: Michael Estime, meteorologist, WTVQ, Lexington, KY; Nefertiti Jacquez, reporter, NBC 10, Philadelphia; Morgan Anderson,Global Real Estate Administrator, NBC Universal; Marquis Francis, production assistant, MSNBC; and Gio Benetiz, ABC News correspondent

L–R: Saundra Thomas, VP, Community Affairs, WABC and Gio Benetiz, ABC News correspondent and EBF alumnus)

Emma L. Bowen Foundation For Minority Interests In Media Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

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he Emma L. Bowen Foundation for Minority Interests in Media celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a gala dinner on June 24, 2014 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City. Four companies honored with the Silver Anniversary Legacy Award for continuous sponsorship of Emma Bowen Foundation scholars for the last 25 years are: CBS Corporation, Comcast/ NBC Universal, Disney/ABC Television Group and Fox Television Stations. David Barrett, director, Hearst Corporation, and David Cohen, executive VP, Comcast Corporation, served as honorary co-chairs for the gala foundation. Graduates Gio Benitez, a correspondent with ABC News, Michael Estimé, a meteorologist with

BENJAMIN BANNEKER ACADEMY Continued from previous page graduates also received Porter Foundation Scholarships of $1.000 or more and “Rising Star” awards from Councilwoman Lauri Cumbo.

The multiple talents of the Benjamin Banneker student body were on display as the graduates marched in to the rousing beat www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Najee Ritter (EBF Alumnus and great-nephew of Emma Bowen) and Patricia Jordan, Emma Bowen Foundation board of directors

WTVQ in Lexington, KY, and Nefertiti Jáquez, a reporter with NBC 10 in Philadelphia, PA., hosted the evening.

2014 Students of the Year awards were presented to Analia Fiestas and Brandon Garcia. Analia graduated from Florida International University, interned at WPLG, in Miami, FL and has accepted a full-time position as an associate producer at WPLG. A graduate of Arizona State University, Brandon, interned at KSAZ in Phoenix and has a position as a sports coordinator with Fox Sports.

Prior to the gala, 235 foundation students participated in a 2.5 day conference at the Grand Hyatt. The conference featured professional development seminars and a media industry panel discussion.

of African drums, followed by the student band. The keynote speaker, John McMichael, a 2006 Banneker graduate, has a long list of accomplishments. He is a Posse Foundation & UNCF scholar, graduate of Vanderbilt University and corporate bond trader at Loop Capital Markets. McMichael told his peers to, “work hard and play hard, but work before play

because the fruits of accomplishments are sweeter. Be quick, but don’t hurry; do not grow up too fast,” he advised “Maintain youthful exuberance; find your passion in life and let your passion be your guiding light. Put positivity into the universe because it springs back to you. And lastly, come back to Banneker. It is a great support system.”

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ABENY Celebrates NYC Education Chancellor Praises Educator of the Year Dr. Dorita P. Gibson

BY EULENE INNISS

L–R: Pearl Jones, ABENY luncheon co-chair, with Linda Jones–Prince, Teacher of the Year

Photos: Lem Peterkin

L–R: ABENY Board Member Dr. Robert Kane with Eugene Brown, Lifetime Achievement Awardee

L–R: ABENY President Mable Robertson and Dr. Dorita Gibson Educator of the Year

L–R: Nora Barnes, ABENY luncheon chair, with Eric Edwards, friend of Education Awardee

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ith the theme, “Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future,” the Association of Black Educators of New York (ABENY) held its 39th Annual Scholarship and Award Luncheon at Antun’s in Queens Village, on June 21, 2014.

Established in the 1960s so that black educators would have a relevant source of support for their particular needs, the original membership consisted of principals and assistant principals. Today, the organization includes teachers, counselors and others in the field of education. ABENY has several stated goals and purposes, two of which are to raise and improve the academic achievement of African American children, and to help African American educators advance professionally.

This year, Dr. Dorita P. Gibson, senior deputy chancellor in the New York City Department of Education, was honored as ABENY’s Educator of the Year. Chancellor Carmen Ferina praised Dr. Gibson, her second in command, calling her “a consummate educator

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who knows instructional goals. One who treats people respectfully and is always willing to listen to parents—a voice for equity and access.”

Eric Edwards, owner of the Cultural Museum of African Art, which holds one of the largest collections of African Artifacts, received the Friend of Education award. Other awardees were: Linda Jones-Price, Teacher of the Year; and ABENY’s Life Time Achievement Award recipient, Eugene Brown, a retired educator. Scholarships were awarded to seven exceptional high school graduates: Tiara Austin,Kyonne Rowe, Chelsea Grant, Omar Saul, Ahmed Zakria, Chantalle Durr and Shanice Campbell—all of whom are expected to attend a fouryear college in the fall.

ABENY President Mable W. Robertson challenged the educators to “look beyond the celebrations of past accomplishments and recommit to finding solutions to the educational challenges and social issues existing in homes, schools and the community.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Edison Job Corps Keynote speaker Kahlil Carmichael, a.k.a. The Fitness Doctor Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Windy White, deputy director Edison Job Corps; Brenda Jenifer, center director Edison Job Corps; Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and Leslie Burwell, Business Community Liaison Edison Job Corps

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n Tuesday, June 3, 2014, Edison Job Corps hosted its quarterly Community Relations Networking event from 11:00am – 1:00pm at the center in Edison. Attendees included Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. and Freeholder Director Ron Rios. Pastor Kahil Carmichael, columnist for The Positive Community and CEO of the Fitness Doctor, Inc. delivered the luncheon address.

All speakers highlighted the importance of people and programs that support the career aspirations of today’s youth. Attendees had an opportunity to hear several students tell how Job Corps has changed their lives.

—AAC

L–R: Students Joyce Gaines, Marques McCoy, David Sanon and Anthony Turner

LAW OFFICE OF CLARENCE BARRY-AUSTIN, P.C. 76 South Orange Avenue Suite 207 South Orange, NJ 07079 TELEPHONE: 973-763-8500 FAX: 973-763-4800 MEMBER OF NJ AND NY BARS • CERTIFIED CIVIL TRIAL ATTORNEY

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Making the Impossible Possible

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ith the goal of raising funds to continue the fulfilment of their mission, Making the Impossible Possible, Inc. (MIPO), held its third annual gala at the Adrie Hotel and Convention Center in Bayside, New York. MIPO works to help improve the potential of Haitian youth both here and abroad through education, character building, medical care, apprenticeship training, family support and scholarships.They also provide partnership programs for Haitian youth in the United States.

MIPO hopes to double its efforts through events like the annual fundraising gala.

Photos: Lem Peterkin

Keynote Speaker Michael Blake

MIPO Founder and President Felina Backer

L–R: Honoree Honorable Charles Barron, Patricia F. Robinson, and Honorable Simon Desras

L–R: Honoree Herman Merrit, Rocky Robinson, and Jihan Marielle Antoine

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Culture L I F E , M U S I C , A R T & L I T E R AT U R E

Photo: Raymond Spencer

L–R: Gabrielle Morris, former president Prudential Foundation; Barbara Bell Coleman, co-chair Branch Brook Park Alliance; Former Gov. Thomas Kean, Past Chairman Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; Dr. Gale Gibson, president Essex County College

L–R: AL Koeppe, former president Newark Alliance; Sharon Taylor, president, Prudential Foundation; Clement Price, BBPA trustee & Rutgers distinguished professors

Concourse Hill Welcome Pavilion Dedication Barbara Coleman of Branch Brook Park Alliance Honored

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amily, friends and colleagues were on hand for the dedication of Essex County Barbara Bell Coleman Concourse Hill Welcome Pavilion in Essex County Branch Brook Park. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. unveiled the stone at the site on Wednesday, June 25, 2014.

The recently completed pavilion was named for Coleman, who has served as the co-chair of the Branch Brook Park Alliance for the last 14 years. Under her watch, Branch Brook Park Alliance (BBPA), a public/ private partnership organized in 1999, has provided design expertise and funding support to help Essex County restore and revitalize the park. New ball fields, extensive cherry tree plantings and restoration of historic park sites are among the elements of the transformation of the park, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The park’s 360 acres, including vast lawns, playing fields, winding paths, and miles of streams, pools and lakes that feature 19 unique bridges, have all been restored.

More than 4,000 cherry trees—the largest collection of Japanese flowering trees in one location in the United States—explode in blossoms each spring, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world. The park is open 365 days a year from dawn to 10 p.m. and admission is free.

— JNW

www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: North Ward Center Founder Steve Adubato; Freeholder President Blonnie Watson; Barbara T. Wright (91), mother of Barbara Bell Coleman; Arthur Ryan, retired CEO/president, Prudential; Barbara Bell Coleman; Sharon Taylor, Prudential; Patricia Chambers, EVP BBPA; Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo; Essex County Deputy Chief of Staff William D. Payne; Freeholder VP Pat Seabold; Hon. Claude M. Coleman (spouse of Barbara Bell Coleman); Faye Hancil, landscape architect, Rhodeside Harwell

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Good Girls Cast Members

Pastor Joan J. Brightharp

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astor Joan J. Brightharp recently headlined a new off-Broadway musical dedicated to inspiring and empowering women to greatness, Good Girls Get Paid. The Lenis Guess production featured individual monologues and songs by both female biblical characters and characters from contemporary every day, life.

Baby Blessing

LL Cool J In Newark

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Rev. Darrell L. Armstrong, pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church, Trenton NJ, introduces young Shane Patrick Council to the congregation after the blessing during Sunday Service.

Shane is the son of Stephen and Morgan Council of Ewing, NJ. www.thepositivecommunity.com

n Monday, July 28, 2014, Mayor Ras J. Baraka surprised families at Summer Fun in the City event yesterday with surprise visit by Hip Hop artist LL Cool J at Movie Night at New Light Missionary Baptist Church, 255 14th Avenue, in Newark.

Mayor Baraka, the Newark Municipal Council, and program partners will officially kick off the City of Newark’s “Summer Fun in the City” program on Friday, August 1, at 4 p.m., at Jesse Allen Park, located at 41-57 Avon Avenue, in the City’s South Ward.

The event will be followed by a Police Department Neighborhood Walk and Community Roll Call.

The citywide initiative will offer a variety of athletic, arts & culture, educational and recreation programming to engage the community and provide safer streets throughout the summer.

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Families Returning to God Metropolitan Baptist Church Revival

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vercoming today’s crisis in spirituality and culture inspired the theme of Pastor David Jefferson’s vision for a family revival. Families Returning to God brought together families and seasoned clergy leaders seeking to revive and reclaim our spiritual heritage. Now, more than ever, we must rededicate and do all that we can to reaffirm our families, our churches and our community’s collective responsibility to insure the progress of our children and the integrity of our American culture, values and traditions. Speakers featured during the revival were Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III; Bishop Hezekiah Walker; Rev. William Watley, Jr., Ph.D. and Rev. Jerry M. Carter, III. —AAC

Pastor Jefferson and First Lady Linda Jefferson

Kimberly Baxter McClain, pres. & CEO Foundation for Newark’s Future and Tracy Munford VP, Community Affairs, Newark Beth Israel Hospital

Dr. David Jefferson and Dr. Calvin O. Butts III

Family Praise and Worship Photos: Karen Waters

Altar Call

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Celebrating 90 Years of Advancing the Common Good Kennie Johnson, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield, a true supporter of United Way and happy winner of the night’s grand prize!

L–R: Dr. Zachary and Mrs. Trish Yamba with United Way Board of Trustees L–R: George Xuereb, United Way director of Resource Development and Michelle Roars, director Community Impact United Way Northern NJ

L–R: Dr. William Howard, Jr., pastor, Bethany BC and Keith Green, president and CEO United Way

L–R: Keith Green, president and CEO United Way, Honorees Trish and Dr. Zachary Yamba, Robyn Pitts, United Way board member and event chair

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rom its humble beginnings as a small, grassroots organization in 1923 to serving a population today of more than 700,000 in 13 communities, United Way of Essex and West Hudson (UWEWH)has been committed to building strong, healthy communities for children, families and senior citizens. Focused on the building blocks providing access to the elements that make for a good life: education that leads to a stable job that provides enough income to support a family through retirement as well as good health, UWEWH’s goal is to create long-lasting changes that prevent problems that plague families and communities.

On May 29, 2014 community leaders joined staff and volunteers for a celebration of the organization’s 90 years of service and ongoing accomplishments. They honored two people whose work has been in line with UWEWH’s mission: husband and wife, Dr. Zachary and Mrs. Trish Yamba were honored for their service to the United Way.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Ricky Dillard’s—AMAZING! Grace & Peace! had the extreme pleasure of meeting the most ingenious, creative, energetic gentleman and a true lover of God and His word. In fact, almost everything we talked about seemed to reference back to God’s word and His promises. Ricky Dillard has received several Grammy® nominations, a 2012 Dove Award, several Stellar Awards, an NAACP Image Award, and numerous other honors. He was conferred a doctorate degree in 2008 and serves as CEO of Animated Entertainment, Inc. and New Generation Ministries, Inc. He’s celebrating his 25th anniversary as a recording artist with a #1 single from his latest project, Amazing.

Both the album and the lead single “Amazing” have hit the charts at #1, garnering Dillard’s first simultaneous #1s in his career.

I

GT: What is the process that you go thru to make the sound, your sound last in this industry?

Ricky Dillard: I stay prayerful, I’m always seeking God for direction, and I’m more open now than I was years ago. When it comes to selecting voices for the New G sound, I hand pick them. We hold auditions, as a matter of fact we have one coming up soon because everyone is not able to travel, and they have families, careers/jobs and can’t always travel everywhere. So I look for a quality sound in a voice that has conviction and is powerful. I love all my singers though… We are a family.

GT: I know you’ve faced some tough times. Your mother passed, and a fire took everything but your life —but you didn’t give up. Why? What keeps you going?

Ricky Dillard: Well, six months after my mother passed, my father passed too. But I know I’m going to see them again so I didn’t want to give up because of that, but I sometimes felt lonely. But it wasn’t because of them or the fire; it was when I didn’t feel like I was making a dif-

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ference in my albums. The last album, Keep Living, didn’t do as well as I expected and it kind of made me wonder where I fit in… Because of the whole Praise & Worship music (sound) that everyone is doing and wanting to hear, it seemed like that choir sound was not acknowledged or wanted anymore. People told me that they loved that CD, but numbers don’t lie. But I thank God that I have friends like Hezekiah Walker, Donald Lawrence and others who encouraged me and lifted me up and I was reminded of God’s Grace...His grace was sufficient for me to get up and do it again…I believe God graced me with a “think about it” moment and through my process, I began to really search and read the scriptures, study my word and what it says about me; and then you realize that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called—I know I am called to do this... Now I’m not saying I’m perfect, because we all err and fall short…but you don’t stay there and you don’t keep doing it. But I truly thank God for His grace. It kept me, sustained me, and revived me… One of my favorite scriptures is Galatians 2:20: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” Grace loved me through it all!

GT: Knowing what you know now, what advice would this 25-year visionary give Ricky Dillard for the next 25 years?

Ricky Dillard: You can’t do it on your own, no matter how good your ideas are, go to God first and see what he says about it. Don’t be afraid to step out of the box and challenge yourself to do better and help others like when you needed help. And remember that it’s only thru God’s saving grace are you able to make it from day to day. Because I’m here by grace, I’m standing because of grace, 25 years God has kept me, not because of me, but because of His grace! www.thepositivecommunity.com

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3/1/13 1:43 PM

www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Patricia Fields; Raphael Colbert; Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, pastor, Shiloh BC, Plainfield, NJ; Vonda McPherson, restaurateur caterer/owner of Vonda's Kitchen, Newark, NJ; Catering Intern and Susan Fields

Fatherhood Matters

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Rod Spearman, event chair Min. Kevin Caldwell

Photos: Karen Waters

ublisher, Adrian A. Council, Sr. was the keynote speaker at a well-attended conference focused on efforts to raise awareness concerning the importance of fatherhood and its far-reaching impact upon the quality of life in the community. The event was held on Saturday, June 7, at Shiloh Baptist Church in Plainfield, NJ. The Second Annual Union County Fatherhood Conference, presented by the Union County Fatherhood Initiative Coalition, is an effort to provide comprehensive strategies and approaches that conference organizers believe will raise awareness and empower men -young men in particular -- with viable skills and solutions to better navigate the journey of fatherhood.

“The Union County Fatherhood conference allows us the opportunity to reach fathers with information that will allow them to become better fathers, better husbands and better men in the community.” Roderick Spearman, Chairman of the Union County Fatherhood Initiative Coalition stated. “There will be resources that they can take and utilize down the road concerning a host of issues and challenges.”

To read the transcript of the keynote speach, visit www.thepositivecommunity.com

Keynote Speaker Adrian Council

L–R: Darryl Jeffries, principal, DLJ Communications Group; Adrian Council; Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, pastor, Shiloh BC, Plainfield, NJ; Dr. Goldman, director of Cardiology, Trinitas Hospital and William D. Jones, Executive Director, Housing Authority City of Elizabeth,NJ

L–R: Rev. Evans Spagner, Fountain, BC; Shakira Johnson, conference coordinator; Geri Agurs; Marlene Powell and R. Allen Smiley

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Memories of

Mississippi Freedom Summer The Mission of Medical Professionals

BY JOHNNY E. PARHAM, JR., FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MEDICAL COMMITTEE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS (MCHR) he year 1964 was a time for an all-out attack on the bastions of American apartheid. The Montgomery Bus Boycott that began in 1955 demonstrated the resolve to end racial segregation on the public transit system by the African American citizens in that city. On February 1, 1960 four freshman students from North Carolina A&T College in Greensboro, NC initiated a nationwide student movement to challenge racial segregation in all public and private accommodations that catered to the general public. The brave action of those four students—sitting at the lunch counter in a Woolworth’s store demanding to be served—inaugurated that important period in history known as The Civil rights Movement of the 1960s. Students throughout the nation volunteered to place their lives on the line to end both state and federal government-sanctioned racial segregation in America.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. convened a meeting in Raleigh, NC in April, 1960 to which students engaged in nonviolent demonstrations were invited. I attended as one of ten participants from The Atlanta Student Movement. The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), one of the most effective and strategically based organizations that led to changing the face of American apartheid, grew out of the Raleigh conference. SNCC was based in Atlanta, GA; staff and volunteers led direct nonviolent action in cities and towns throughout the south.

The Medical Committee for Human Rights (MCHR) was formed in response to a request by SNCC for medical assistance during the Mississippi Summer Project in 1964, as SNCC staff members and others were in need of healthcare. Some were encountering near total battle fatigue. In preparation for Mississippi Summer, an umbrella organization called the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO) was formed, which included SNCC, CORE, NAACP and SCLC. MCHR recruited physicians, dentists, nurses and social workers to offer volunteer services as the medical arm of the civil rights movement.

The June murders of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner made clear the true

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dangers volunteers might face. Given the dearth of physicians willing to treat injured civil rights volunteers and with the prospect of hundreds of volunteers converging on the state, there was a critical need for outside assistance.

On a Sunday afternoon in July 1964, a group of New York City physicians met for five hours in the office of Dr. John L.S. (Mike) Holloman in Harlem. They agreed to recruit healthcare professionals to go to Mississippi to perform first aid to injured volunteers, and rented office space in the heart of the Jackson, MS black business district.

When the murdered bodies of Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner were discovered three months after they were slain, the official Mississippi autopsy reported that Schwerner and Goodman had each been shot once and Chaney three times. When they reported no evidence of mutilation or bodily injury, MCHR representatives in Jackson were suspicious. Given that the bodies were badly decomposed, how could a determination be made that there were no bodily injuries? They reached out to New York pathologist Dr. David Spain, urging him to come to Mississippi at once.

Dr. Spain performed the autopsy on the body of James Chaney. He was not prepared for what he saw.

“The lower jaw was completely shattered, split vertically, from some tremendous force.” On the torso, he found “the bones in the right shoulder were crushed, again from some strong and direct blow.” Spain’s conclusion was quoted in newspapers around the world. “I could barely believe the destruction to these frail bones. In my twenty-five years as a pathologist and medical examiner, I have never seen bones so severely shattered, except in high speed accidents and airplane crashes.” James Chaney had been beaten to a pulp.

According to John Dittmer, author of The Good Doctors, the Mississippians who conducted the official autopsy and the FBI, which observed the procedure, either missed or had not seen fit to report the damage done to Chaney’s body—another historic example of the conspiracy of silence, both by the State and FBI. continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

FREEDOM SUMMER continued from previous page

Meanwhile, back in New York, with office space in midtown Manhattan donated by The Broadway Presbyterian Church, the MCHR hired a fundraiser along with three nurses who were based in Jackson, MS. I was hired as executive director, along with a Mississippi Field Director, Harvard-educated psychiatrist Dr. Alvin Pousaint. My tasks were to expand our volunteer base, coordinate staff, and seek to assure the safety of staff and volunteers.

In March, 1965, in Jackson, I met with the three nurses who worked throughout the state, organizing health associations in areas where no healthcare services were available to African Americans and to provide support to COFO and the summer volunteers. It was through Dr. Robert Smith that out-of-state volunteer physicians were eligible to provide first aid or “good Samaritan” care to civil rights volunteers. The Mississippi State Medical Board, in its efforts to block the services of out-of-state physicians, was adamant in its refusal to grant licenses to MCHR physicians, many of whom were the nation’s most prominent caregivers.

Upon my return to New York on Sunday, March 7, “Bloody Sunday” occurred in Selma, Alabama. My New York City office was inundated with calls from healthcare

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professionals located throughout the country who offered to go to Selma.

During the summer of 1965 we devised a schedule of nightly calls with Mississippi-based staff. Upon completion of one such call, the staff person reported that she immediately tried to dial another number, but instead, heard a full playback of our conversation. Following that experience, we resorted to speaking in code with frequent references to the FBI, which we suspected was recording our telephone calls, despite the vicious acts of violence being perpetuated by the Ku Klux Klan and other racist groups. More violence could have been avoided had there been the same vigor directed to protecting the rights of African Americans.

Later, the focus of the movement expanded into Louisiana. We recruited medical students to volunteer and work at our office in Baton Rouge, LA. During one trip to Baton Rouge, I was driven to New Orleans to meet with a lawyer, to be followed by meetings with staff in Jackson. In the car were volunteers from Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), which included two white women and a white male driver. Along the way we travelled an unpaved road that ended at a barge that carried passengers and cars across the Mississippi River. On the barge, I immediately became aware of hateful stares from a group of four tobacco chewing white men.

Immediately, I thought to defuse what could become another American lynching party. I approached the men, saying, “So, this is the mighty Mississippi.” Giving no reply, they simply turned and walked away. At the other side of the river, we returned to the car and started off on another dirt road. It wasn’t long before we noticed that the men from the barge were following us. It soon became a high speed chase, but eventually they turned off into another direction. Perhaps they were just taunting us or they may have had other ideas. We were relieved that we didn’t find out.

My conclusion from that experience was that in the United States of America, the only thing that prevented white people from killing anyone committed to the promise of “Equal Protection Under the Law” was that they simply had something else to do.

A SNCC volunteer once offered these words: “We have fought to make the world safe for Democracy. Now, we are fighting to make Democracy safe for the world.”

During that Mississippi Freedom Summer and other summers that followed, the brilliant strategy that brought together both black and white college students changed the American dialogue. Has the time arrived for a 21st century student movement?

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“Save one life and you’re a hero.

Save one hundred lives and you’re a nurse.”

Health P R E V E N T I O N , T R E AT M E N T & C U R E

Nurses: Heroes of Healthcare

BY ROB BROWN

N

o one knows who said this old adage first, but it has been said many times since: There is probably no other profession in the history of the world that has improved the quality of life for more people. Nurses are constantly on the frontline of community health, crossing all cultural and economic boundaries to serve all age groups. The health care system of the U.S. could not function without the dedication, knowledge and compassion of the nation’s nearly 3 million nurses.

However, many young people don’t realize the job opportunities for nurses. The field has evolved from a focus on bedside assistance and physician support to becoming an integral element of the entire health care system. Specialties within nursing include midwifery, public health, radiology, cardiology, substance abuse, home health, research, health policy, infection control, critical care, medical-surgery and more. And, nurses are employed everywhere in the world, from major cities to isolated missionary hospitals.

“In high school, I knew I wanted to work in the medical field,” says Laura Ardizzone, chief nurse anesthetist at Me-

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morial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and graduate of Columbia University School of Nursing. “But as what? A nurse?

Physical Therapist? Physician? In the end, I chose nursing because I saw it as the epitome of science and caring. It was a career I could grow with.”

While the responsibilities vary according to specialty, each nurse is responsible for the “nursing process”— assessment, diagnosis, outcomes planning, implementation and evaluation.

Assessment, the first step in the process, determines a patient’s physical, psychological and other needs in order to help provide a diagnosis about the patient’s actual or potential health. After assessment and diagnosis, nurses develops short- and long-term goals or outcomes for the patient, as well as a plan for helping get the patient to those goals. Nurses then implement the plan, regularly evaluating the patient’s status and the effectiveness of nursing care as they move forward. This is the basic process that allows nurses to deliver holistic, patient-focused care.

Historically, nurses worked exclusively under phywww.thepositivecommunity.com

Dr. Gloria Igwe, RNC, BSN, MSN, DNP University Hospital Newark, NJ

G

loria Igwe remembers the exact moment she decided that caring for new babies would be her life’s work. She was a young child in Nigeria. Her mother gave birth to twin boys who did not survive. Learning of her twins’ fate, her mother collapsed and died a short time later. “It was then that I knew I would work all my life to keep babies healthy,” Dr. Igwe recalled. “I didn’t want others to experience the unspeakable sorrow my family had.”

Now the nurse manager of University Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Intermediate Care Unit, and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit/ General Pediatrics, Dr. Igwe has been caring for high risk infants for more than 17 years. She earned degrees

in nursing and midwifery in Nigeria and after coming to the U.S. in 1991, earned a BSN and an MSN at New Jersey City University. In 2010 she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice at University Hospital/ Rutgers School of Nursing (formerly the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Nursing). “I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to learn and grow in my career, that I want to give back,” Dr. Igwe explained.

At the time Dr. Igwe began her leadership role in the NICU, only three of the nurses were certified in caring for high risk babies. Certification is not mandatory, and all the nurses were well qualified, but mastering the information needed to pass the exam would make them

sicians to perform many of these tasks; however, today nurses share responsibility with physicians for certain types of care. Many nurses even operate totally independent of physicians, depending on their training and specialty. For example, in some states, advanced practice nurses are allowed to make diagnoses and prescribe medicine.

Nurse training usually takes from two years (Associate Degree) to four years (Bachelor of Science), plus additional training for specializations. Today’s nurses often pursue further education, such as a Master’s degree. In 1956, Columbia University School of Nursing in Morningside Heights became the first school in the country to award a Master’s in a clinical nursing specialty. Columbia also led the way in establishing other higher degrees for nurses, i.e., Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), which is research-focused, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which prepares nurses for clinical practice.

According to the American Nurses Association, salaries for registered nurses nationwide are around $70,000, www.thepositivecommunity.com

even more proficient. As Dr. Igwe worked on her doctorate, she motivated, coached and inspired her nurses. Now all are certified except one, who is scheduled to take the test.

Dr. Igwe’s dedication and love for her work has not gone unnoticed.

She was the recipient of the 2013 New Jersey March of Dimes Nurse of the Year award in the Leadership category. She was chosen from among 120 finalists from 40 hospitals in New Jersey. The annual honor is given to those who play a critical role in improving the health of New Jersey’s mothers and babies. “I was very surprised and humbled to receive the award,” she says. “Caring for babies is my passion, but it is always nice to be recognized for your work.”

with the highest 10% of nurses making more than $90,000 annually. The highest paying specializations are registered nurse anesthetists ($135,000), nurse researchers and psychiatric nurse practitioners (both around $95,000) and nurse midwives ($85,000).

Salaries are expected to rise because there are not enough new nursing graduates to meet the healthcare needs of an aging population. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 296,900 healthcare jobs were created in 2011, most were nursing jobs. By the year 2020, approximately 1.2 million nursing positions will need to be filled.

“This is a critical time for healthcare,” says Jennifer Dohrn, assistant professor at Columbia University School of Nursing and director of the school’s Office of Global Initiatives. “There’s an urgent need for nurses, especially nurses educated to the fullest extent possible, who are willing to fight for change. Sometimes we look at the world as having such huge problems –it’s hard to know how to help. If you can be of use to just one family, then that leads to helping a local community, and that leads to helping the global community.”

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Court Ruling Keeps Interfaith Medical Center Alive

BY EULENE INNISS

L-R: June Daniel and Jeffrey Daniels honored for his 43 years of service

L-R: Canon Diane Porter wiith honoree Sharonnie Perry, recipient of the Indomitable Spirt Award

L-R: Temporary Operator, Melanie L. Cyganowski and Aylan Dawkins, president of Interfaith Medical Center Auxiliary

L-R: Honoree Nurse Cheryl Beckles for 37 years of service with newly appointed Chief Nurse Gwen Lewis

Photos: Lem Peterkin

T

he dark cloud of uncertainty that once hung over Interfaith Medical Center in Bedford-Stuyvesant has finally dissipated, and, like the phoenix, the embattled hospital has risen from its ashes. The recent court ruling has given the once bankrupt facility a new beginning. And so, it was a time for celebration on Thursday June 19th, when the Interfaith Medical Center Auxiliary held its 21st Annual Service Awards Dinner Dance, at the magnificent El Carib Country Club in the Mill Basin section of Brooklyn, to commemorate the many years of community service by caring volunteers.

There was a contagious giddiness to the mood of those in attendance. The scars and fatigue of the long struggle — town hall meetings, political promises, rallies and news conferences, which skeptics called futile, had given birth to success. To top off the evening, award recipients received recognition from almost every elected official who stood with the hospital workers in their struggle. Officials sending awards included: Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, State Senator Valmanette Montgomery,

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Assemblywoman Annette Robinson, Public Advocate Latitia James, New York City Councilmembers Darlene Mealy and Robert Cornegy, and many others.

There was a combined total of 162 years of service among recipients, ranging from those with 37 to 43 years of dedication. Retired Assistant Head Nurse Cheryl Beckles, who migrated from Barbados, was honored for her 37 years at the hospital. She recalled her humble “start in the custodial care division and through opportunities for continued education.” Through “a desire to succeed I rose to my position,” she proudly acknowledged. Hers was one of many such triumphant stories.

Under the restructuring mandate, Interfaith now has a new temporary operator, Melanie L. Cyganowski.

A former chief judge in the Eastern District, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the position and intends to “bring all areas of the Interfaith Community together,” she explained. “I am dedicated to a better hospital that assures quality care is given.”

Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

Gwen Lewis, the new chief nurse, says she will “work with the team,” to move the hospital to a Magnet Status, the highest level of performance as outlined by the American Nurses Credential Center. Steven R. Korf, new president and chief executive officer, looks forward to his role at Interfaith. “Through the educational process, I will go into community schools and other establishments to discuss proper health care. The best way to avoid emergency room reoccurrences and high operating cost is to encourage primary care,” he explained.

Activist/icon, Sharonnie Perry, who was the banner carrier in the struggle, seemed the proudest of them all. She recalled the initial long marches and rallies that gained the support of local politicians and the Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN). Ms. Perry is now the Community Relations representative for Interfaith Medical Center. Recipient of the Indomitable Spirit Award at the event, and proving that she is the right person for this job, she said her mission is to, “get the entire community even more involved in the hospital by building bridges and letting all residents know that the hospital is open forever.”

Frederick Douglas said that without struggle there is no progress. There are new leaders at Interfaith. The former trustee board has been dissolved and the new team is heading in the right direction. Their planned course of action will deliver exceptional service to the community residents. Interfaith is Alive!

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Summer 2014 The Positive Community

87

You are invited to the long awaited Book Signing and Mixer celebrating the release of

“A Journey Through the House” by Vincent Bryant

A book about the early years of Club Zanzibar (Zan)

Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 5:30 PM Where: Robert Treat Hotel 50 Park Place Newark, NJ 07102

Books available for purchase, Mix with the legendary Zanzibar Club Personnel, Refreshments, Wine and a DJ spinning classic Zan Club Music!

973-­991-­2974

Email for more info: vbunforgettablemoments@gmail.com

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Miss Susie, New York State’s Oldest Resident, Turns 115

S

usannah Mushatt Jones, known affectionately as “Miss Susie,” celebrated her 115th birthday on July 6, 2014.

The oldest resident of New York State, she is the third oldest person in the United States and the 4th oldest person in the world. Miss Jones was born in Lowndes County, Alabama on July 6, 1899—just 34 years after slavery was abolished in America, 5 months and 25 days prior to the turn of the 20th Century.

Misao Okawa (born March 5th, 1898) at 116 years old is the world's oldest person.

Gertrude Weaver (born July 4th, 1898) at 116 years old is the second oldest person in the world. Jeralean Talley (born May 23rd, 1899) at 115 years old is the third oldest person in the world.

Photos: Lem Peterkin

Great-great niece Lois with her Aunt Susie

Members of the Miss Susie Family

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2014 The Positive Community

89

Spring Bling

BY MADINAH NAJLA JAMES

Photos: Mark Cunningham Photography

Joanne English Rollieson and husband, Ronald Rollieson

Tennis For Life, Active Breast Cancer Support Group Jay Nadel, Englewood Hospital Warren Geller, President of Englewood Hospital

J

oanne English Rollieson, president and CEO of English Realty Associates in Bergen County and her husband, Ronald H. Rollieson, hosted their 8th annual Spring Bling Think Pink Breast Cancer Benefit at their home on Sunday, May 18, 2014 in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. The annual pink themed event, where guests “party for a purpose,” is near and dear to English Rollieson, a two-time cancer survivor, and is designed to educate, empower and promote awareness about breast cancer.

Event supporters have an opportunity to make meaningful contributions that are donated to non-profit cancer organizations. The 2014 Spring Bling Think Pink beneficiaries include Englewood Hospital and Medical Center's Breast Cancer Treatment Center, honoring their commitment to bring quality, compassionate, state-of-the-art medical services; and Gilda’s Club Northern NJ Cultural Outreach Development, for the positive support and education they provide cancer survivors and their families.

More than a celebration of life designed to commemorate how many men and women survive cancer daily, it provides an opportunity for corporations and small businesses to come together in an effort

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The Positive Community Summer 2014

to elevate the importance of pre-screening as well as providing community resources that highlight cancer awareness initiatives.

“I vowed to inspire other women by telling my story.

I'm blessed to be able to share my experiences with other women who are in different stages of surviving cancer, or who know someone who has been touched by cancer,” said English Rollieson. “The event brings together celebrities, pillars of society and everyday people for a great cause.”

Guest speakers, Dr. V. Merle McIntosh, associate medical director, chief of breast surgery, and Warren Geller, president and CEO, both from Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, thanked the Rolliesons for their generosity and commitment to the cause of cancer awareness.

Entertainment was provided by the Total Eclipse Band and R&B/Hip Hop Artist, Rob Base.

Event sponsors included The Positive Community Corp, Razac Products Company, Mortgage Apple Cakes and Zenza Spa Wellness Boutique.

Log onto springbling-thinkpink.com and joanneenglishrollieson.com for more information regarding this cause, event and the woman behind the mission. www.thepositivecommunity.com

“ We are passionate about getting you the best care.”

George Ingram, Horizon NJ Health

Horizon NJ Health is a compassionate and caring organization with employees who clearly understand the needs of the people they serve in New Jersey. We’re here to guide and assist you to get the health care you and your family needs.

If you are on Medicaid, NJ FamilyCare, or are uninsured, Horizon NJ Health can help.

To enroll, visit HorizonNJHealth.com or call 877-765-4325 (TDD/TTY: 1-800-654-5505).

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon® name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2013 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

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Summer 2014 The Positive Community

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

Keep it Simple t seems that almost everyone knows and loves the song “Happy” by the artist Pharrell. I must admit, this catchy tune brought a smile to my face during a rare time of stress and mental fatigue. The uplifting chorus repeats “Because I’m happy/Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof/Because I’m happy/Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth.” What a wonderful, simple song! The simplicity of this mega hit gave me reason and allowed me to meditate on the simple things in life; simple things that add so much value.

Henry Thoreau wrote, “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand.” In this day and age of many trying to be famous (usually as a result of outrageous behavior), I am starting to truly value the bare, plain, unencumbered simplicity of life. I embrace simple things such as an easy conversation with my wife or the understated worship of a small but powerful group of authentic worshippers. As the artist Alicia Keys once stated, “Simplicity makes me happy!” I concur—especially when it comes to physical fitness and health.

I’m always preaching the value of a simple exercise regimen to my clients and congregants. That’s why I created the “F.A.S.T” training method. F.A.S.T is the acronym for Flexibility, Aerobic Strength-Training!

Simple, right? If everyone would adhere to this method of training (regardless of the individual’s level of fitness), getting in shape and staying healthy and fit would be as easy as Sunday morning.

Allow me to present a brief sample of this training method: Flexibility Training—Try some light stretching for about five minutes. The stretching must not be ballistic nor extreme as the muscles are not warmed up or malleable at the start of exercise. Google some images of light stretching appropriate for your fitness level and age.

news is walking constitutes aerobic exercise. The American Heart Association suggests walking as one of its Simple Seven ways to stay healthy. For more on the Simple Seven, visit AmericanHeart.org.

Aerobic Training—The definition of aerobic is relating to or denoting exercise that improves or is intended to improve the efficiency of the body’s cardiovascular system in absorbing and transporting oxygen. The good

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.

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Strength Training—I can’t stress enough the benefits of lifting weights or using strength and resistance training apparatus. Start with lighter weights and learn the proper technique for lifting weights. It is imperative that you work with a certified fitness professional in a safe environment conducive to learning safe techniques for training. Give me a call at (732)921-3746 or visit my website www.fitnessdr.org. It would be my absolute pleasure to assist you at our new location in Somerset, New Jersey or refer you to someone in your area.

Training Methods—To get the best results you must find the training method that serves you best. There is a specificity to exercise. The law of specificity is a training principle that is often discounted by most people trying to get healthy and fit. Again, I can help you find the best training method for you or offer a recommendation to a qualified fitness professional.

Remember—simplicity, simplicity, simplicity. Let’s sweep away the clutter of things that complicate our lives and hinder our progress toward achieving our fitness goals. I pray you would simplify your life; physically, mentally, and spiritually.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor with Cissy Houston

Adler Aphasia Center Vy Higginsen's Gospel for Teens Choir Photos: Karen Waters

T

he Adler Aphasia Center presented Raising Our Voices for Aphasia on June, 1, 2014, at Community Baptist Church, Englewood, NJ. Proceeds benefited the Adler Aphasia Scholarship Fund. The event featured Vy Higginsen's Gospel for Teens Choir and legendary Cissy Houston. Lori Stokes of WABCTV Eyewitness News was mistress of ceremonies.

The Adler Aphasia Center, a non-profit organization located in Maywood, West Orange and Bridgewater, NJ, is an innovative, post-rehabilitative therapeutic program that addresses the longterm needs of people with aphasia and their families.

Nurse Hubbard’s Birthday

Ahmaya Knoelle Higginson Solos

Backstage with Patti Labelle Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad

L–R: Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.; Annette Hubbard and Newark Councilman John James

P

opular health advocate Annette Hubbard, RN celebrated her 80th birthday on June 22, at Galloping Hill Inn in Union, NJ. Dozens came out to celebrate her life and contributions as a leader in community health. She is the founder of Concerned Black Nurses of Newark and a founding member of African Americans for Health Awareness (AHAA).

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F

ollowing her debut performance in the Broadway play, After Midnight, R&B Diva, Patti Labelle is joined by friends and music legends Gladys Knight and Natalie Cole. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Visit Our New Improved Interactive Website: THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY.COM

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95

MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Marcus Garvey, Jesus, and Black Unity wo thousand and fourteen is the 100th anniversary of the founding of Marcus Garvey’s organization, the United Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA-ACL), which in its heyday, was headquartered in Harlem.

August 17, 2014 would have been the late Marcus Garvey’s 127th birthday.

Given these facts, it is not surprising that the UNIAACL scheduled its Centennial Renaissance the weekend of August 14 through August 17, with most events taking place in Harlem, and some in Washington Heights and Brooklyn.

Garveyism, a black nationalist ideology, centers on unifying Africa into a single nation state, while simultaneously enhancing black unity, economic self-sufficiency, and independence locally and worldwide. An often-quoted Garvey encouragement is, “Up you mighty race! You can accomplish what you will.”

Pan-African ideology also tends to focus on global black unity. Although the first Pan-African conference was held in 1900, years before the UNIA-ACL existed, many blacks who identify with Garvey’s ideology also identify with Pan-Africanism.

The armed conflict within South Sudan, the mass killings in the Central African Republic, and the increased violence and kidnappings of Boko Haram in Nigeria frustrate visions of African unity. Would simply establishing a continent-wide African government end such conflicts? If civil wars and mass violence occur within the presently existing African nation-states, is it reasonable to predict that peace would inevitably prevail under a single government that encompasses more territory?

Beyond political restructuring, we need a change in people’s values throughout Africa and the African Diaspora as a whole. Greatest value must be placed on peace, the golden rule, helping the least of God’s people, serving God rather than serving wealth, and so on.

In other words, to end the violence, we must prioritize Christian values. This applies not only to Africa, but also to urban black America and the world at large.

It is reported that Christianity is spreading faster in Africa than in most of the world. But are new Christians fully adopting Christ’s value system or just scratching the surface?

Of course, much of Africa’s violence is not Christian perpetrated. Boko Haram, the group that recently kidnapped hundreds of Nigerian school girls and has other-

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wise escalated violence in Nigeria in 2014, is Muslim and affiliated with Al Qaeda. But not all of Africa’s mass violence is Muslim driven.

A glaring example is South Sudan, where civil war erupted despite the pervasiveness of espoused belief in Christ. Could it be that the habits of war, nurtured over decades of fighting for independence from Northern Sudan, have become a more dominant value among South Sudanese than values espoused by Christ, the Prince of Peace?

Of course, contradictions within Christendom are not restricted to Africa. Historically, “Christian” Europe’s centuries-long transatlantic slave trading and western hemisphere enslavement of Africans directly contradicted God’s Biblical commands. For examples, read on your own Exodus 21:16 and Exodus 21:1-11, then compare God’s instructions to historical accounts of our ancestors’ slavery experiences.

But let’s not try to justify our own sins by pointing out the sins of others. Instead, let’s collectively strive to practice Christian values in all aspects of life. Salvation is just the first step. Continually endeavoring to obey God’s will comprises diligent Christians’ lifelong strides.

“In everything, therefore, treat people the same way that way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

(Matthew 7:12 NASB) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NASB) “He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. (Isaiah 2:4, New International Version)

Portions of two books that contain Marcus Garvey’s writings, Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey and Marcus Garvey Life and Lessons, strongly suggest that Marcus Garvey was Christian. So let’s point out this fact, in friendly but unashamed ways, should any of us show up at UNIA-ACL Centennial Renaissance events this August.

I have observed over the years that more black unity and even black power results from black folks purposely acting Christian than from our simply “worshipping” ideologies. By no means am I knocking the UNIA-ACL. Hopefully, I’m just lifting up Jesus.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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

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97

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

The Last Word www.thepositivecommunity.com Summer 2014

™

The Incredible Freedom of Summer

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

s we come to the end of the 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer, it was humbling to reflect upon the struggles, sacrifices and triumphs of those who came before us. As we’re reminded of those who stood up to the bigotry and racism that had until that summer been standard operating procedure, I am brought back to my youth and summers of freedom that I enjoyed largely because of Freedom Summer.

I was born and raised in the 1970s, the first generation of children who didn’t know legal segregation.

Because of civil rights advocates like my parents and Johnny Parham, Sr., I was able to grow up in an integrated neighborhood where I was exposed to all types of people. My family actually knew the Parhams quite well and to me, Johnny Parham, Sr. was simply “Uncle Johnny,” and many of my summer days were spent at Uncle Johnny and Aunt Ann’s home on Fire Island.

My brothers, the Parhams’ son “J.J,” and I would leave the house early in the morning on our bicycles to explore, untethered, until we found ourselves hungry, thirsty, in need of the bathroom, or saw the sun beginning to set on the water. In contrast, in the summers before our youth, our parents often traveled on road trips “down south” and found themselves unable to eat, get a cool drink or use a bathroom due to Jim Crow laws and segregation. They prayed that the sun wouldn’t set before they could exit “sundown towns” that seemed to surround the interstate roads.

The freedom summers of our youth consisted of building sandcastles, riding waves and catching jellyfish and lightning bugs. We were brave when we stood up to a local bully and felt courageous as we popped wheelies on our bikes or

A

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Marc Williams Contributing Writers Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Patricia Baldwin Doris Young Boyer Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Glenda Cadogan Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Bruce Moore Brian Branch Price Karen Waters Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp.

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

98 The Positive Community

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 14, No. 7

Summer 2014

successfully navigated our Radio Flyer wagons down the wooden ramps that hovered over the poison ivy plants we sought desperately to avoid. Our parents were brave when they organized against entrenched racism and courageous when they stood up to the injustices that had limited and all but destroyed too many black lives.

Today my nieces and nephews find it almost unbelievable that we were allowed to roam free for hours on end without cellphones to keep us in touch with our parents at every moment. They also can’t believe that we didn’t have portable electronic games and DVD players to keep us entertained, and we knew nothing of sunscreen, yet played in sun all day long. They’ve never known the joy of digging for sand crabs, collecting seashells, or the futile fun of trying to play hide and seek on a beach.

They’ve never gathered around a garden hose to sip cold, funny-tasting water or shared a “quarter water” with four friends after using our entrepreneurial skills and wagons to tote tourists’ luggage from the ferry to the inn for tips.

I marvel at the fact that we had such childhood summers. Our sunny, carefree days and balmy, star-filled nights were the spoils of the war our parents waged so that their children, and all those who came after, could have the summers they never had.

Our summers of freedom came at a high price and were courtesy of their Freedom Summer in 1964. As summer 2014 winds down and I feel the evening breeze or glimpse a spectacular sunset, all I really want to say is thank you. Thanks, Mom, Dad, Uncle Johnny and Aunt Ann; and all of the other parents and freedom fighters who gave us an incredible gift. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Do You or Does Your Child Need Health Insurance?

Apply for enrollment all year long

for these New York State-sponsored health insurance programs

Child Health Plus

Free or low-cost monthly premiums For children under 19 who live in New York State.

There are no copays for care or services. Coverage may be free or as little as $9 per child per month based on income and family size.

Benefits to keep kids healthy and on the go • Well-child care and checkups • Immunizations • Prescription drugs • X-rays and lab tests • Diagnosis and treatment of illness and injury • Dental and vision care • Hospital inpatient and emergency care • Speech and hearing care • and much more!

It’s easy to apply - all year long!

Medicaid

No monthly premiums!

Medicaid Managed Care is for children and adults who live in New York State and who meet certain income and disability requirements.

Benefits for you and your family • Checkups • Well-child visits • Preventive care • Immunizations • Women’s health and pregnancy care • Treatment for illness or injury • X-rays and lab tests • Hospital, emergency, and urgent care • Prescription drug coverage (copays may apply) • Dental care • Eye exams and glasses • Speech and hearing therapy (limits may apply) • and much more!

Apply for Child Health Plus and Medicaid Managed Care offered by Fidelis Care through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, at www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov. A Fidelis Care Representative can help you complete an application form. Call 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547).

Some children who had employer-based health insurance may be subject to a waiting period of no more than 90 days before they can be enrolled in Child Health Plus.

This will depend on your household income and the reason your children lost employer-based coverage. For more information about Medicaid Managed Care call New York Medicaid Choice at 1-800-541-2831. For more information about Medicaid and Child Health Plus call New York Health Options at 1-800-541-2831. To learn more about applying for health insurance through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

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

SALUTING A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

The USTA salutes our friend David Dinkins, and thanks him for his continued support of tennis and the US Open. His leadership, vision and integrity helped make our sport stronger and more accessible, and the US Open the world-class event it is today. We are proud to call him our friend.

Your Friends at the USTA Photo Getty Images. Š2014 USTA.

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