February 2015

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

February 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

15

™ $2.95

CELEBRATING

Still on the Frontline: The AME Church

YEARS!

Harlem School of the

ARTS The Friendship Nine: Righting History Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ

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Pride_ad_2_2015_PosComm 2/11/15 11:08 AM Page 1

Pride of New York Winners of the 2015 CUNY Educational Leadership Award For their exemplary dedication to education

Arva Rice

David C. Banks

President and CEO New York Urban League, Inc. A Parent’s Guide to STEM Science •Technology • Engineering • Math

President and CEO The Eagle Academy Foundation Founding Principal of Eagle Academy Author, SOAR, How Boys Learn, Succeed, and Develop Character

Presented by

Chancellor James B. Milliken

Watch videos at cuny.edu/educationalleadership

Februar y 2015

CONTENTS Cover Photo: Shannon Stukes/JF Allen Photography

34

SECTIONS MONEY ........................................16 EDUCATION ..................................24 HEALTH ........................................37 CULTURE ......................................49

Features The Family Business at Golden Krust ..............16 Newark Small Business Summit .....................20

L–R: Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, presiding prelate of the First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, pastor of St. Matthew A.M.E. Church in Orange, NJ

Something for Everyone at Harlem School of the Arts ..24

COVER STORY: Righting History: Friendship Nine Vindicated ...28 AME CHURCH STILL ON THE FRONTLINE

&also inside

Publisher's Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

MLK Celebration at BAM .................................32 Celebrating Rev. Daughtry: The People’s Pastor ....33 Start Moving, Start Living ...............................37

Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Selah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Positive Community Choice Health Award ........38 Earth Talk: Mercury Poisoning .........................40 Jazz on Fifth ...................................................49

Gospel Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 4

The Positive Community February 2015

MLK Tribute at Walt Whitman Theatre ..............53 Jesse Jackson Speaks in Newark ....................58 thepositivecommunity.com

DON’T JUST CELEBRATE HISTORY, CREATE IT. We all have the potential to make the future we wish to see, just like these six students from the Bronx Academy of Promise. They won the Verizon Innovative App Challenge by creating an app that made mathematics exciting to them and their fellow students.

You, too, can make history. Go to PotentialOfUs.com and get the technology and inspiration you need from America’s largest and most reliable 4G LTE network. #PotentialOfUs See verizonwireless.com/bestnetwork for details. ©2015 Verizon Wireless.

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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.

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

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

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

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

Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder

Mount Calvary United Methodist Church, New York, NY Rev. Francis Kairson, Pastor

St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, 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. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. 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 Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Dr. Gadson L. Graham Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor

First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor First 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 Good Neighbor Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, 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 Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor

Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor

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

Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor

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

New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor

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

Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus

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

Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor

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

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

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

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor

Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev.Chuch Chamberlayne, Pastor

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

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

St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe

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

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

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

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

The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor 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

Governor Cuomo: What are you afraid of?

Hundreds of New York public school teachers have invited you to come into their classrooms to see for yourself what all kids need.

They want you to understand the impact of overcrowded classes, lack of supplies and too few supports for teachers and struggling students.

They want you to see for yourself, rather than listening to your millionaire contributors who keep telling you that teachers are to blame for everything that’s wrong in our schools.

We know that the teachers did not support your re-election bid. But as the New York Times recently wrote: It is time “to move beyond peripheral concerns and political score-settling” to confront “the inequality in school funding that prevents many poor districts from lifting their children up to state standards.”

You talk a lot about teachers.

Why not talk to teachers?

Come to one of our classrooms:

The door is always open.

United Federation of Teachers

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

ADRIAN COUNCIL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

Songs of Freedom, Unity, Faith and Hope Our Music. Our History. Our Future

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ntroducing The Positive Community‘s Great Playlist of Progress— The All Time Classic Soul Music Countdown. Life-affirming music for all generations—from children to adults—our creative best! This upbeat and encouraging compilation speaks of our history and our future—potentials and possibilities. We hope this list prompts discussions between seniors, adults, teens and children.

Send us your playlist for progress! Name the songs that you believe should be added. Choose from the Negro Spirituals, the Blues, Jazz, Gospel, R&B or Hip-Hop. At The Positive Community, we are compiling a list of popular music that celebrates life, African-American values, traditions and culture.

A musical time capsule will be created as a gift of faith, love and hope for future generations. In 2063, our descendants will witness the centennial of the March on Washington and the 200th anniversary observance of the Emancipation

Proclamation, of 1863. Let’s pass on our great musical legacy.

In June, Black Music Month, we will close the list and seal the capsule. It becomes a valuable possession of time representing our musical story—the trials, tribulations and triumphs of a loving, gifted people.

The entire list will be featured in a special Black Music Month edition of The Positive Community. Then, we’ll have a celebration of music and life featuring the playlist that you helped us create.

The ultimate music and dance party, “In Classic Black!”

Listen to the songs below, research the music, the artists, and their eras. Engage young people in a conversation about music as a culture-stimulating exercise. Encourage input from your family and friends. Submit your top 5, 10 or 20 songs and artists for The Positive Community‘s Great Playlist of Progress—The All Time Classic Soul Music Countdown. Visit thepositivecommunity.com to register and send us your musical selections.

Here’s a sample: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T.—Aretha Franklin A Change is Gonna Come—Sam Cooke Someday We’ll All be Free—Donny Hathaway Lift Every Voice and Sing Ain’t No Stopping Us Now— McFadden and Whitehead 6. What’s Going On (the entire album)— Marvin Gaye 7. Say It Loud (I’m Black and I’m Proud)— James Brown 8. Freddie’s Dead—Curtis Mayfield 9. People Get Ready—The Impressions 10. Come Sunday— Duke Ellington and Mahalia Jackson 11. Respect Yourself—The Staple Singers 12. The Greatest Love of All—Whitney Houston 13. Redemption Song— Bob Marley and the Wailers 14. Fabulous (Don’t Hate On Us)—Jaheim

10 The The Positive Positive Community Community February February2015 2015 40

15. Self Destruction—Stop the Violence Movement 16. Could You Be Loved—Bob Marley 17. We’re a Winner—The Impressions 18. Everything is Everything—Lauryn Hill 19. Happy Birthday (MLK Holiday Song)— Stevie Wonder 20. Golden—Jill Scott 21. God Bless the Child—Billie Holiday 22. I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free— Nina Simone 23. Trying Times—Donny Hathaway 24. Yes We Can Can—The Pointer Sisters 25. This is It—Michael Jackson 26. Stand—Sly and the Family Stone 27. Jesus is Love – Lionel Richie 28. To Be Young Gifted and Black—Nina Simone 29. We Are One—Maze featuring Frankie Beverly 30. Message to the Messengers—Gil Scott Heron

thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

The Positive Community’s

Grand Jubilee Season of Emancipation—2015

Proclaiming a New Language of Freedom

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e are now into year three (3), the final year, of the 150th anniversary Grand Jubilee Season of Emancipation, the sesquicentennial commemoration. One hundred and fifty years ago in 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, the Civil War came to an end, a war that cost over 700,000 lives. In that year (1865), the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America was passed by the legislative and executive branches of government, abolishing slavery in this nation forever. From those troubling times to the present, we as a group are blessed with an enormous opportunity to measure, analyze and define our American journey, our claim on the American Dream— to proclaim for ourselves a new language of freedom!

Below is a cultural narrative—our story—our history; a brief presentation of our deep collective history that dates back to before this nation’s founding: The Cultural Narrative African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa as slaves in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years).

On January 1, 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born.

One hundred years later, in August, 1963, at the height of the civil rights movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial as he led hundreds of thousands to a “March on Washington” seeking an end to discrimination and 90 years of Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full citizenship rights for the people in what has been called “The Second Emancipation.”

Forty years after Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elected its first black president, Barack Obama (2008).

In one hundred years between the first and second emancipation, in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching and the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, medicine, invention, sports and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature and theater. Indeed, original American art forms and a popular culture that has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! That is our story — the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race revealed!

An Extraordinary History Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation and triumph that we must never forget! This is the story that we must tell our children and be ever remembered. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation, must tell our story to each other reminding ourselves, over and over again of the great, noble struggle and sacrifices of those who came before us.

This is our story, our cultural narrative, a new language of freedom; a springboard into a great and prosperous future, a vision of hope and progress; health and happiness; peace and goodwill!

2015—the Grand Jubilee Season of the Great Emancipation!

Author: Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor: Jean Nash Wells Graphic Design: Penguin Graphics & Martin Maishman

Published by: The Positive Community Corporation www.thepositivecommunity.com

KHALIL GIBRAN MUHAMMAD GUEST EDITORIAL

Khalil Gibran Muhammad is Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.

The Time is Now: Black Life Matters

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t’s no coincidence that the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is celebrating its newest exhibition, Curators’ Choice: Black Life Matters, during Black History Month. The exhibition celebrates culture through the richness of photographs, film, books, music, letters and artwork that have documented the beauty, imagination and enduring legacy of the black experience. As new civil rights issues continue to take shape in America, the exhibition opens at a defining moment when we remember the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act in March. Here at the Schomburg Center, we are paving the way for a new movement, simply titled Black Life Matters.

Inspired by the #BlackLivesMatter social media campaign, Curators’ Choice: Black Life Matters, is presented by five of our own in-house curators who have assembled an eclectic mix of material culture, art and images. Most items have rarely or never been exhibited before. Each division of the Schomburg’s special collections and its core library holdings are represented. From private letters between lovers and friends to comedy and spoken word albums, to political documentaries, to children’s literature, to photojournalism and early 20th century figurative art, every means and mode of expression is here.

Mr. Muhammad was featured in the February 2014 issue of The Positive Community

These archives give voice to experiences big and small and lay bare the everyday substance of black people’s lives. These are matters of history and culture, of art and society, of memory and narrative, heard in Alan Lomax s recordings of Negro Prison Songs at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. These are matters of the heart and of the state, told in a bedtime story where young Harriet Tubman learns from her father how to follow the stars to freedom for herself and for her people. These are matters of intimacy and rejection, captured in the outrage of a gay man telling his parents what it feels like to “get more warmth from this beautiful planet I love than I have ever gotten from another human being with the exception of two fine and handsome men you probably don’t want to know about.”

These are matters of joy and comfort, revealed in the wide-eyed, grinning faces of young Nigerian men in Richard Saunders’ photography, and in the quiet dignity of a mother holding an infant child in a newly-discovered 1941 Jacob Lawrence painting.

These are matters that celebrate our humanity and history making, and are a fitting tribute to Arturo Schomburg’s legacy of chronicling the past in order to remake the future.

Curators’ Choice: Black Life Matters recovers the raw, onthe-ground sounds of Selma marchers in the reel-to-reel recordings of performance artist and playwright Ken Dewey, which transport us to a time of disruption and disobedience. People’s courage and commitment landed them in jail as witnessed in Ely Landau s nearly forgotten 1970 documentary, King: A Filmed Record . . . Montgomery to Memphis.

And yet, these matters of race and justice—of life and death—are as relevant today. Sit-ins have become die-ins with young people back on the front lines of expanding the meaning and practice of democracy in America.

Just as the murder of Emmett Till in 1955 spurred a generation to act and create, Curators’ Choice: Black Life Matters serves as a catalyst for those who believe in freedom and cannot rest until the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Renisha McBride, Michael Brown, Eric Garner and so many others help transform the nation yet again.

Visit the Schomburg Center website, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

12 The Positive Community

February 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

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REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

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

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

Black History is Made Daily

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angston Hughes. Mary McLeod Bethune. Fannie Lou Hamer. Those are names that might be bandied about during our annual observance of Black History Month. Hughes penned prose and poems: Life for Me Ain’t Been No Crystal Stair; I, Too Sing America; etc. Bethune was placed on President Franklin Roosevelt’s Black Cabinet. She also founded a normal school for girls, as it was called back then, with $1.50 and a dream. Hamer stood before the delegates at the 1964 Democratic convention and asked a poignant question, “Is This America?”

They’re wonderful civil and human rights icons but the African-American community has more. No, their names never were embossed across a page of some historical document but they made an indelible difference in somebody’s life. Some butchered the King’s English.

Some could only sign their name with an X. Others had no political currency to make the powers that be do anything. But, Lord, how they could pray! And, as black folks are often told, prayer changes things. Or, it changes you in the midst of those things.

Our history is full of many other names unknown to the masses. Let’s not forget our everyday heroes who are quietly contributing to our history by holding it down daily with their quiet dignity. What about the black grandmother who is raising yet another brood of chilluns’ even though she’s tired, despondent and weary? Yet, she carries on. What about the black mother who must work to maintain the survival of herself and

14 The Positive Community

February 2015

her kids, then makes sure those offspring make it to church every Sunday morning? No, she doesn’t send them. They walk alongside her. What about the black father who brings his own brown bag to his manual labor job? And, even though his attire is not a Brooks Brothers suit and spit-shined shoes, he still goes to that job proud of the fact that he can provide for himself and his family.

No, he may not be a part of Oprah Winfrey’s Legacy Awards Show, but he certainly can make his little boy and little girl proud, knowing that their daddy cares enough to walk out of that door every day to put food on the table.

The black sisters who do back-breaking domestic work so their kid(s) can go to college probably won’t be remembered among the masses, but when their children receive their diplomas, part of each degree belongs to mama.

Do I think this is a good thing to cite the contributions of people of color in a 28-day period? Look, you play the hand you’ve been dealt and move forward. The black tribe is incredible because of both its tenacity and never-say-die attitude. Yes, we could say the same thing about those from the larger community —but this is our month, February, thank you very much! And, we should want the magnitude of our participation in the Republic cited in February and all the other eleven months.

Only a few weeks ago in January 2015, teachers were fired for teaching Black History in a middle school. Even more shocking to me, was the fact that these teachers taught at a charter school on the campus of Howard University in Washington, DC —one of the most illustrious and respected Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the country.

Our legacy is so rich, so vibrant. Surely we must be our own talking drum and tell our own stories, which are varied and fascinating, despite the way that mainstream media tries desperately to convince the world otherwise.

Our ancestors survived the Middle Passage; now we must survive and remove the apathy that is inundating many pockets of black life as if someone said our story —our legacy is over. As the MacFadden and Whitehead song goes... “Ain’t no stoppin’ us now.” thepositivecommunity.com

BUILDING ON

A LEGACY OF CARE In honor of Black History Month, we want to celebrate those who have taken major steps in moving the health and wellness of our community forward.

People like Dr. Lonnie Robert Bristow. A Harlem native and the first African American president of the American Medical Association, he’s been committed to increasing diversity among hospital staffs and expanding affordable health care for all. For more than 75 years, EmblemHealth has supported the work of people like Dr. Bristow and the countless doctors, nurses and public officials that serve our community, who, like EmblemHealth, have been committed to making a difference in the lives of New Yorkers.

That’s why we’re here to help you and your family take a small step towards healthier living starting today. Let us help you find the plan that’s right for you!

Visit emblemhealthreform.com or give us a call at 1.800.233.1831 for a one-on-one appointment.

We’ll guide you every small step of the way.

*Dates and availability subject to change. 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. ©EmblemHealth Inc. 2014, All Rights Reserved.

Money BUSINESS, MONEY & WORK

Golden Krust: Truly a Family Business

Daren Hawthorne

L–R: Lowell Hawthorne, Daren Hawthorne, Mayor Ras Baraka and Omar Hawthorne

Photo: Vincent Bryant

G

olden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill was founded in 1989 by Lowell Hawthorne and his family.

Today, with headquarters located in Bronx, NY, the company has 120 stores nationwide. For twenty-five years, Golden Krust has brought food lovers a taste of the Caribbean through franchising and a thriving retail business. Their Jamaican style patties are distributed to supermarkets and club stores nationwide as well as through several food service organizations.

Lowell Hawthorne has always focused on involving family in the business, so it’s no surprise that members of the second generation of Hawthornes are now holding high level positions in the company:

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The Positive Community February 2015

Haywood Hawthorne – VP of Manufacturing and Information Technology (Lowell Hawthorne's eldest son) Omar Hawthorne – Director of Franchise Development & Community Affairs (Lowell Hawthorne's second son) Latalya Morrison – Marketing & PR Manager (Lowell Hawthorne's niece) Steven Clarke – Operations & Logistics Manager (Lowell Hawthorne's nephew) Monique Hawthorne – Director, Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne Golden Krust Foundation (Lowell Hawthorne's daughter) Continued on next page thepositivecommunity.com

GOLDEN KRUST

Continued from previous page Most recently, Daren, the youngest Hawthorne son, was appointed executive vice-president of the Franchising Division. Daren previously held the position of corporate counsel and will continue to represent the company in that office as well.

“During this time of transformation, there is no better person to lead our franchising department towards the next major milestone— achieving our 20/20 vision.” said his father, Lowell, Golden Krust president and CEO and chairman of the Board of Directors. “Daren is a proven leader with a keen eye for business, a visionary in his own right who possesses the ability to drive transformational changes. His vision for the future is optimally aligned with the mission and vision of the organization.”

A graduate of American University and Southern University School of Law, Daren readily affirms that it has always been his dream to be able to serve the company that his family worked so hard to build. During his tenure with the company, he has spearheaded several new initiatives aimed at reshaping the organization.

“As I take on this new journey with the company, I ask that you trust me, that you challenge me, that you continue to work hard, and that you remain competitive in the market.” Daren said when his promotion was announced during an executive meeting.

“The opportunity ahead for Golden Krust franchising is vast, but to seize it, we must focus clearly, move faster and continue to transform. A big part of my job is to accelerate our ability to bring innovative products to our customers more quickly.” —JNW

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February 2015 The Positive Community

17

How Mobility is Making Work Better And Easier for Small Businesses

M

obility routinely tops the list of hot trends upending the IT industry. At a certain point, however, we should probably upgrade mobility from a trend to the small business status quo — because today, who doesn’t use a laptop, tablet, or smartphone to make work better and easier?

Recent studies bear this out. Forrester Research’s most recent Forrsights Global Workforce Benchmark Survey, which was conducted in Q4 2013, found that 56% of workers believe they need a smartphone to do their job. 66% believe their device makes them more productive, and 61% believe that having a smartphone makes it much easier to get their job done. Considering that smartphones are a relatively recent technological innovation, this kind of industry saturation is impressive.

“This [implies] that smartphones have changed information workers' roles so much in the past few years that these devices are now a basic necessity for these workers

to be able to do their jobs," Tim Sheedy, senior analyst at Forrester Research, told ZDNet. “Smartphones are dictating how we work.”

Luckily, small businesses are responding — and not just by distributing smartphones to their employees or relying on some sort of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. Enhanced communication is the most obvious byproduct of an increased shift to mobility. But internal business operations can also improve quickly through the use of real-time expense management, automated inventory control, and mobile-ready sales platforms.

The best part is that solutions such as these can be easily implemented and integrated with a business’ existing systems — especially with the help of an IT professional. Empowering employees with instant access to the information they need often produces an instant boost in productivity, with employees not shy about using their own tablets and smartphones before, during, and after work hours.

Of course, there are challenges that come with mobility’s rapid expansion: • Maximizing limited resources. The new norm is three devices per employee, which isn’t cheap — and don’t forget that data usage will surely go up. But a trusted IT partner can secure the solutions you need, at a price you can afford • Balancing user needs with IT requirements. Mobility can drastically increase workflow — but also place a strain on existing service capabilities. If your IT department is small or non-existent, an external partner can help.

• Setting up strong BYOD parameters. Letting employees bring their own devices is great — as long as firm rules about data encryption, security settings, and backup options are put in place.

• Implementing Mobile Device Acceptable Use Policies (MDAUPs). Don’t turn mobility solutions free and then expect everything to work fine. A solid MDAUP can spell out all the requirements for device use and protect your business from liability.

• Wiping and resetting devices when necessary. Smartphones and tablets contain crucial business information — make sure it’s not compromised when an employee leaves the company.

The best way to overcome these challenges is to work with a trusted IT professional like CMIT Solutions that has your short- and long-term business goals in mind. If you want your employees to reap the benefits of mobility — and you want your company to operate more flexibly and nimbly, the way you’ve always dreamed of — contact us today.

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The Positive Community February 2015

CMIT Solutions of Northern Union 973.325.3663• 800.399.CMIT www.cmitsolutions.com/nunioncounty thepositivecommunity.com

The Homes for Veterans Program HEAVY CIVIL CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES Current Projects • Poplar Point Pump Station • Renewal of 7 Stations, New Lots

$50 Million Commitment from SONYMA for Homes for Veterans The Homes for Veterans Mortgage Program from the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) is open to: • Active Military, National Guard and Reservists who are first-time homebuyers.

• Honorably discharged National Guard and Reservists who are first-time homebuyers.

• Military Veterans who have served in active military, naval, air service and who have been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.

Program Features: • Fixed interest rate of 3.500%.

• Down payment assistance up to $15,000.

• 97% financing.

• As little as a 1% borrower cash contribution.

• Financing for home improvements can be included.

www.sonyma.org (800) 382-HOME (4663) Andrew M. Cuomo Governor

Darryl C. Towns Commissioner/CEO

Line (IRT)

• 2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes • Bronx-Whitestone Bridge • Bronx River Parkway

• 7th & 8th Ave Vent Plant 2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes

For the 7 Stations, New Lots Line (IRT) E.E. Cruz is seeking the following scopes of work: concrete accessory supply, detectable warning strip supply and install, door supply and install, precast panel supply, rubbing board supply and install, steel supply and accessories, lumber supply, MPT supply, bird deterrent, miscellaneous metal supply, progress photography, plumbing subcontractor, rebar subcontractor, rodent control subcontractor, furnish and install of windows, and dumpster supply.

E.E. Cruz welcomes the participation of disadvantaged, minority-owned, woman-owned, and local (D/M/W/LBE) businesses on all of its projects. E.E. Cruz also recruits minority, female and local union workers.

For all projects, we are looking for highly qualified M/W/L union workers and D/M/W/LBE subcontractors and vendors certified for heavy civil construction.

#96

Make the long haul a joy ride.

If you are an M/W/L union worker or you are a federal, state, or city certified D/M/W/LBE company involved in heavy civil construction work, please contact us at (212) 431-3993 or dmwlbe@eecruz.com.

E.E. Cruz is an equal opportunity employer and follows a policy of administering all employment decisions without regard to race, gender, religion, or sexual preference. *** E.E. Cruz is part of a Joint Venture with Tully Construction Co. Inc. on the 2nd Avenue Subway 96th Street Station Finishes Project and Bronx-Whitestone Bridge Project.

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York Life Insurance Company (New York, NY 10010) and individual annuity products are issued and provided by New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation (Newark, DE individual 19713) alifewholly-owned subsidiary ofprovided New York Life The AARP Life Insurance and Annuity Program insurance products are issued and

by New Life Insurance (New York, NY 10010)are andavailable individual annuity issuedand and provided by Insurance Company, not byYork AARP or its affiCompany liates. These products to theproducts public.are AARP its affiliates Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation (Newark, 19713) a wholly-owned subsidiary of New York Life are not insurers. AARP doesNew notYork employ or endorse agents, producers orDE brokers.

Insurance Company, not by AARP or its affiliates. These products are available to the public. AARP and its affiliates AARP group life insurance products are available under the AARP Life Insurance are not insurers. AARP does not employ or endorse agents, producersProgram or brokers.and are issued and provided by New York Life Insurance Company York, NY 10010).

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thepositivecommunity.com

February 2015 The Positive Community

19

John R. Strangfeld, chairman, CEO, and president of Prudential Financial

Dr. Randal Pinkett, president/CEO of BCT Partners; Lata N. Reddy, president Prudential Foundation; John R. Strangfeld, Mayor ras Baraka, and Preston D. Pinkett III, president/CEO of City National Bank

Newark Small Business Summit

C

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The Positive Community February 2015

L–R: Janice Johnson; Tai Cooper, senior policy advisor to Mayor Baraka and Dr. Randal Pinkett

L–R: Newark Municipal Council member Mildred Crump with Jah Jah Shakur, professor of HipHop Business at Essex County College Photos: Vincent Bryant

ontinuing his efforts to reach out to all sectors of the city, Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, along with the Newark Municipal Council and Prudential Financial, hosted Newark Small Business Summit on Wednesday, January 14 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

At the summit, Mayor Baraka defined the vision of his administration and their agenda for small business development. Local and regional business owners and entrepreneurs had access to panel discussions involving experts on small business development and growth, workshops on financing and start-ups, and educational sessions on maintaining a small business. President and CEO of NJPAC John Schreiber; Chairman and CEO of Prudential Financial and NJPAC Board of Directors Co-Chair John Strangfeld, and Mayor Baraka, all spoke at the event.

“Since taking office on July 1st, our administration has placed a high priority on development and success for our small business community. We believe that Newark’s prosperity and economic growth come from its neighborhoods, its communities, and its people, declared Mayor Baraka. Development in Newark must be for all, must empower all, and strengthen all! When we work together as a unified team, strengthened by our diversity and united by our love of Newark, we truly transform our City and its economy into a Newark we can all believe in.”

“At Prudential, we recognize the importance of small businesses to the economic vitality of our nation and the revitalization of Newark,” said Strangfeld. “Our company started as a small life insurance business right here in Newark nearly 140 years ago. We remain committed to doing our part to drive sustainable growth for Newark’s small businesses and look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the City of Newark, local small business owners and community development groups to help our city reach its full potential.”

Dr. Randall Pinkett, who is president and CEO of BCT Partners and the season four winner of NBC’s The Apprentice, was the lunchtime keynote speaker.

Willie Blalock, (center) SVP City National Bank and CNB staffers

thepositivecommunity.com

Jamaal Bernard to Pastor CCC Long Island

P

astor Jamaal Bernard will take the helm as senior pastor at the new CCC Long Island church & campus on February 15. The CCC Long Island church will be temporarily located at the UA Farmingdale Stadium 10 Theater, 20 Michael Avenue, East Farmingdale, NY. “My focus is to establish myself as a minister, preacher and teacher while managing a growing global presence,” says Pastor Jamaal. He continues: “I want to change lives and grow individuals back to the basis approach… to become unapologetic ambassadors for Christ.”

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Pastor Jamaal is the founder of CCC’s youth ministry C3, and co-founder of its Young Adult Ministry. He has assisted in advancing various small groups within CCC, including the marriage ministry, and has led individuals across the globe on evangelical mission trips to Mexico, Guatemala, the Philippines, Jamaica; and hurricane relief in Haiti, New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina, New York for Hurricane Sandy and Galveston, Texas for Hurricane Ike.

thepositivecommunity.com

Pastor Jamaal has ministered his message to various churches, married couples and youth groups in other countries including: Singapore, Australia, Puerto Rico and Guatemala, to name a few.

Jamaal Bernard is the son of Rev. A.R. Bernard, Sr., founder of Christian Cultural Center, and Pastor Karen Bernard in Brooklyn, NY. As pastor of CCC, his duties included Chief of Operations and Director of Public Safety, as well as the overseer of Ministry of Helps, CCC Medical Staff Unit and Customer Representative Training. He superintends all aspects of security and aids in addressing the needs of the congregation and visitors.

Pastor Jamaal is supported by his wife of sixteen years, Rita Bernard, and their four children: Kamryn, Stephanie, Jamaal Jr. and Liam.

February 2015 The Positive Community

21

Honoree Adrian A. Council, Sr.; Jean Nash Wells; and Sandra Rice, SVP Emma Bowen Foundation

McDonald’s Owner/Operators and honorees

McDonald’s Honors Media Legends

BY ISSEU DIOUF CAMPBELL and Trailblazers

M

L–R: Rev. Dr. Marvin D. Hooks, Sr., AME Zion Church, Brooklyn; Honorees Rev. Dennis Dillon; Bob Picket and guest

cDonald’s honored thirteen Black Media Legends and Trailblazers who have impacted the community through their achievements and positive examples on February 2, 2015 at the Pierre Hotel in Manhattan.

McDonald’s operators and several members of the media braved the bad weather to cheer for this year’s honorees: Chuck Carter (WPIX 11), Don Collins (CBS 2), Adrian Council (The Positive Community), Rev. Dennis Dillon (Christian Times), William Egyir (New York Beacon), Regina Leader McKinnis (Fox 5), Yvette Miley (MSNBC), Les Payne (Newsday & NABJ), Robert Pickett, Esq. (WBLS), Deborah Roberts (ABC News), Shaila Scott (WBLS), Tracie Strahan (NBC 4), Brandon Walker (News 12 CT) and Hank Hamlette (NBC 4).

NY1 anchor and co-host of the ceremony Cheryl Wills received the McDonald’s Harold Dow Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hosts L–R: Cheryl Wills, Anchor NY1 TV News and Brenda Blackmon, former WOR-TV news anchor

Impresario Curtis Farrow

Photos: Bruce Moore

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The Positive Community February 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

Central Jersey CDC Awards Breakfast Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Steve Kalfer, Rev. Dr. DeForest Soaries, Rev. Dr. Tabiri M. Chukunta with representative of Hoagland, Longo, Moran,Dunst, Doukast, LLP

F

riends, supporters, clergy, business and community leaders came together for the annual Corporate Recognition Breakfast at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick hosted by the Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC). This year’s honorees were: Steve Kalfer, owner of Flemington Car and Truck Country and chairman of Somerset Patriots baseball team; Associate Pastor Rev. Tabiri M.Chukunta, executive director of Community outreach and diversity of St. Peter’s Hospital; and the law firm of Hoagland, Longo, Moran, Dunst, Doukast, LLP. The mission of CJCDC is to rebuild communities one family at a time, by improving the social, educational, and economic conditions in targeted areas throughout the state of New Jersey.

Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC), formerly known as First Baptist Community Development Corporation (FBCDC), is one of New Jersey’s most comprehensive and holistically-run community development organizations. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. is the chief executive officer. He is also senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Lincoln L–R: Rev. Dr. DeForest Soaries, Steve Kalfer withAJthe Somerset Patriots baseball in Somerset, NJ. CCO-90 7x4.75 PC_GZ 10/30/14 3:49 PM Gardens Page 1 team mascot

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February 2015 The Positive Community

23

Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE Photo: Reudi Hofmann

BY GLENDA CADOGAN

Photo: Christine Butler

Matthew Whitaker

Yvette L. Campbell (L) with Angie Medina, HSA Visual Arts Student

Something for Everyone at Harlem School of the Arts

T

here is a 37,000 square foot building in Harlem where dreams can be readily accomplished. It is the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA), an organization dedicated to providing all children access to a quality arts education and empowering them to be artists, creative thinkers and the innovators of tomorrow. And there are adult classes, too.

At a time when arts and music education are being removed from the New York City Public School curriculum, HSA stands as a true community arts school where no auditions are required to qualify for classes offered in four disciplines – music, dance, theater and visual arts.

At HSA, students find the freedom to develop the artist, student, and citizen within themselves in an environment that teaches discipline, stimulates creativity, builds selfconfidence and adds a dimension of beauty to their lives.

Serving 1,000 students ages 2-18 years, HSA has been in existence since 1965 when its founder, acclaimed con-

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The Positive Community February 2015

cert soprano Dorothy Maynor, birthed the organization believing that world-class training in the arts stimulates the child, strengthens the family and gives pride of ownership to a community. Located in the historic Hamilton Heights section of Harlem, HSA was given a new lease on life in 2008 after its near death due to drastic decline in the 15 years prior.

Yvette L. Campbell is the current president/CEO who is marshaling the institution through its rebirth. She assumed the leadership chair in January of 2011 as the second step in a strategic restructuring plan. The first was Mayor Bloomberg’s action in commissioning a new five member board tasked with coming up with a plan to save the organization, which had declined into financial debt, moral decay and systematic dysfunction.

“What I found when I came here was a place in need of being reborn,” Campbell happily reported. “The school was in debt, had taken out a second mortgage, thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Steven Schnur

Photo: Christine Butler

Front: Jordan Babbs, BACK, L–R: Nia Seward, Cherish Patton and Decnis Pimentel

“...Harlem School of the Arts continues to turn out world class graduates...”

Wander Sanchez

payroll could not be met and numerous systematic issues existed. In addition, the school’s brand and visibility in the community were on the decline. The place was crumbling from within.”

Fast forward five years under Campbell’s watch and the school now has 22 board members, its debt has been eliminated, and endowments for scholarships and financial aid to its students restored. “We are no longer running at a deficit and so we can truly focus on teaching children to be great citizens as well as great artists,” says Campbell.

Having completed her board mandated strategic plan two years ahead of schedule, Campbell has set her sights on a broad vision of growth, capacity building and sustainability. It includes teaching 1, 500 students on site in addition to the 2,800 in 25 New York City public schools. “Our next steps have to be focused on getting back to capacity and sustaining it,” she explained. “In our years of serving public schools we have now come full circle. So as arts and music are being taken out of the school system, HSA is as vital as we were when Mayor Bloomberg intervened to save the school.”

For Campbell, the most rewarding part of the rebuilding process has been changing people’s perception. “I think people have finally gotten to the realization that this is a community jewel and therefore it cannot be lost. So it has taken everyone – board members, teachers, students, parents, thepositivecommunity.com

and the community working together to bring us to where we are today.”

Though she came to the position with a background as a professional dancer with Ailey II and director of the Ailey Extension, Campbell believes that nothing could have qualified her for this job.

“Nothing could have qualified anyone for this job,” she reflected. “You just needed to have the wherewithal and the patience to believe that it could happen.

Blind faith in this mission is what was required,” she continued. “Because the reality is that if I had known the depth of the mission beforehand, I probably would not have taken the job.”

But the new reality is that everyone is happy with how things have turned out. And so Harlem School of the Arts continues to turn out world class graduates like YaYa DaCosta, who starred as Whitney Houston in the movie Whitney and N’Kenge, star of Broadway’s Motown: The Musical.

Though the school’s teaching focus is on young people, there are classes and other opportunities open to adults as well. So the invitation from Campbell is all encompassing — “Whether you are a grandmother or a 3-year-old who wants to dance, a talented teen aspiring to Broadway, or if you just want to see a good concert and be inspired, Harlem School of the Arts has something for everyone,” she beamed. “We are in every sense, a community arts institution.”

February 2015 The Positive Community

25

“

KIPP New Jersey is preparing my children, not just for college, but the real world as well.”

– Seek and Rise Academy Parent

KIPP New Jersey supports our kids to and through college.

95% 77%

More African American students went on to four-year colleges from our high school (Newark Collegiate) than any other high

of seniors to college of 8th grade grads to college*

*Whether they went to our high school or not.

school in Newark.

Students stay with KIPP New Jersey.

KIPP New Jersey’s attrition rate is one of the lowest in Newark.

7%

Our student attrition

Student attrition is the percentage of students who leave a school within a school year.

Student attrition at individual Newark schools. (less is better)

We serve students who need us.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Our school demographics closely

FREE & REDUCED MEALS KIPP New Jersey

87%

Newark Public

mirror those of the Newark Public

85%

Schools.

KIPP Schools are public. That means free to apply and attend.

KIPP New Jersey’s schools are public schools. We are publicly funded, free to attend and have no entrance requirements or tests to get in. enroll, apply and get more info at: www.kippnj.org

A

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KIPP THROUGH COLLEGE In 2014, KIPP New Jersey’s Newark Collegiate Academy High School had twice as many African American students go on to college as any other high school in Newark, New Jersey.

With student enrollment that mirrors the average Newark high school, KIPP New Jersey students have gained acceptance to colleges such as Swarthmore, Smith, UVA, Duke, Brandeis, Haverford, Barnard, George Washington University, Boston College, Howard, NC State, and Rutgers along with many other key state and local institutions throughout New Jersey.

KIPP New Jersey students are closing the achievement gap in K-12 and going off to college at high rates — with 95 percent of last year’s senior class matriculating to college. KIPP New Jersey is also giving their alumni the support they need to stay in college once they get there, with counselors and financial support, regular visits and emergency aid.

“We believe that every Newark parent, every Newark student, should be empowered to change their life,” CEO of KIPP New Jersey Ryan Hill explains. “As soon as a student joins a KIPP school, we visit each student’s house and make a solemn promise to help them get to and through college.”

To ensure college admission, KIPP New Jersey has implemented a program called KIPP Through College (KTC), which provides every KIPP New Jersey student with highly personalized support.

Julian, a KTC alumni advisor, meets with Colin, Rutgers class of 2016.

These results come in stark contrast to what educators and parents are seeing nationally. For students raised in lowincome families, fewer than one in ten graduate from a 4-year college (within six years).

partnerships with colleges and universities across the country to promote Newark students.

In addition, KTC extends beyond K-12 education and supports students throughout their college years, providing book stipends, care packages, on campus visits from KIPP staff, apprenticeship and career development opportunities, and personal mentors to ensure the student’s transition to college is as successful as possible.

The program also provides needed financial assistance for students who face extreme financial challenges to ensure they are able to attend and stay in college as well as a “Pathways Scholarship” that supports students who are interested in building a sustainable career through licensing and trade options that may not offer financial assistance.

The KTC program, which is free of charge and available to every student who has finished 8th or 12th grade at KIPP, includes college application support, organized trips to visit colleges, interview preparation, SAT and ACT prep, personal mentoring, transition planning for students with special needs, financial support to participate in study abroad programs, unpaid internships, and over 60

“When my KIPP Through College Advisor visits my campus, my friends can’t believe that my high school continues to support me. My advisor is always available, whether I need to discuss my future plans or just want to vent. He’s a great friend and mentor. I can’t thank KTC enough!”

KENDRA GOLSON, OBERLIN COLLEGE 2015 enroll, apply and get more info at: www.kippnj.org

Righting History The Friendship Nine Vindicated After 54 Years

by g.r.mattox

I

n January, friends and supporters packed a York County, South Carolina courtroom to witness the exoneration of nine men who took a bold stand for civil rights 54 years ago. In 1961, they were willing to go to jail rather than face injustice in the era of segregation.

Back then, Rock Hill, South Carolina was a neat, seemingly quaint little town one-half hour over the state line from Charlotte. It had a prosperous main street, Glencarin Gardens —a beautiful 12-acre walking park, and three colleges: Winthrop College, an institution for women; Clinton Junior College, established by the AME Zion church; and Friendship Junior College, which was organized by the Baptist Church. But under the surface, tension bubbled short of a boiling point.

Blacks and whites were truly separated, and if you were black, you did not step out of your place. “You talking about a war zone; Rock Hill was pretty much a war zone back in the day,” said W.T. “Dub” Massey, who still resides in the town.

Massey was one of 18 civil rights demonstrators, most of whom were students at Friendship Junior

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The Positive Community February 2015

College, who staged a protest in front of McCrory’s Dime Store on the morning of January 31, 1961. “We could go in that store and buy anything we wanted to buy, but we couldn’t go near those lunch counters,” one longtime resident remembered. “You could see black women in the kitchen cooking all that food and we weren’t allowed to sit down and eat any of it.” Around lunchtime, while five women continued to march in front of the store, 13 male demonstrators went inside the store, ten of them sat down at the lunch counter, ordered food and refused to leave until served. “They drug those boys off those counter stools, out the back door and across the alley into the jail.”

Those ten men were: Massey, Willie McCleod, James Wells, Clarence Graham, Thomas Gaither, David "Scoop" Williamson, Robert McCullough, Mack Workman, John thepositivecommunity.com

Publication: Insertion date: Size: Reservation :

THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 14, 2015 3.4" x 9.5" 4C MAG #

“ We cannot rewrite history, but we can right history.”

—Judge John C. Hayes, nephew of the judge who handed down the original sentence.

Gaines and Charles Taylor. Gaither was a graduate of Claflin College and a field secretary for the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). Eight others were graduates of Emmet Scott High School in Rock Hill. Charles Taylor was a native of Union County, New Jersey.

The next day, the ten protesters were tried, convicted of trespassing and breach of peace and sentenced to 30 days hard labor or a $100 fine. Taylor was concerned about possibly losing his athletic scholarship at Friendship, so with the assistance of the NAACP, he paid his bail and was released. The NAACP offered to pay the bail for the remaining nine protesters but, as had been previously planned, they refused, claiming “Jail, No Bail.” On February 2nd, the nine young men began serving out their sentences on the county prison farm.

The case for the “Friendship Nine” —as they were dubbed by the press after landing on the farm, became famous. Supporters would swarm the prison and protesters throughout the country adopted the “Jail, No Bail” policy instituted by the group. This policy obligated the authorities to pay for the prisoner’s upkeep while serving out their sentences, doing hard (and often meaningless) labor, surviving isolation and starvation, rather than funding a system that supported segregation.

Before signing the order that vacated the 1961 convictions, Judge John C. Hayes, nephew of the judge who handed down the original sentence, said: “We cannot rewrite history, but we can right history,” The current York County prosecutor offered the eight men still living —seven in the courtroom that day — an apology: “Sometimes you just have to say you’re sorry.” The nine were represented by Ernest A. Finney Jr., the same lawyer who defended them originally and who went on to become the first African American Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court since Reconstruction.

The local park, Glencarin Gardens, still thrives.

Winthrop became a co-educational university and Clinton became a four-year college. Friendship also became a four-year school, but closed its doors in 1981.

Blacks and whites live side-by-side now. Members of the Nine often speak at various events, and their stand for freedom is commemorated with a historical marker in front of the old McCrory building. A documentary aired on South Carolina Educational Television, and a book, No Fear for Freedom, by Kimberly Johnson was published last year.

“It was not easy,” Clarence Graham recalled, “but we were able to keep the faith. We don’t regret it and had no idea we would be around talking about it now.” thepositivecommunity.com

We Keep the Family Secrets: Stories and Songs from the Civil War Friday, Feb 27, 6:30 p.m.

Join us for an evening of epic family histories from the Civil War, including songs performed

by Vy Higginsen’s Harlem Teen Choir.

Tiffany Zeno, WNBC Producer Cheryl Wills, NY1 News Anchor Harold Holzer, Lincoln and Civil War scholar Free with Museum admission.

The Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium.

Seating for this event is first come, first served.

Fifth Ave. at 82nd Street

We Keep the Family Secrets: Stories and Songs from the Civil War is presented by the Museum’s Multicultural Audience Development Initiative.

metmuseum.org

Thomas Waterman Wood, A Bit of War History: The Recruit (detail), 1866, Gift of Charles Stewart Smith, 1884. Tiffany Zeno and Harold Holzer photos: Don Pollard. Cheryl Wills photo: Alonzo Boldin.

February 2015 The Positive Community MET-0245-BlackHist_PositiveComm_3.4x9.5_Feb14_v5.2.indd 1

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2/10/15 4:05 PM

KOREA

Land of the Diamond Mountains now on view

Showcasing the power and majesty of Korean art over the centuries, this exhibition features 75 works that represent the Museum’s holdings of nearly 600 Korean objects. Many have never been on view to the public.

KOREAN FAMILY FESTIVAL

Saturday, March 14, noon-4:30 pm Families are invited to celebrate Korean art and culture at the Newark Museum. Activities include treasure hunts through the galleries, traditional music, drumming, performances and hands-on activities.

newarkmuseum.org 49 washington street, newark, new jersey 973.596.6550 711 tty On-site parking available for a fee.

Contact registrar@newarkmuseum.org for information regarding images.

Columbia University Columbia University Celebrates Black History Month

Celebrates Black History Month Franklin Thomas: CiviC leader, rebound Champion Before Franklin Thomas was the widely admired president and CEO of the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation and then president of the Ford Foundation he made history at Columbia. Coming to Morningside Heights from Franklin K. Lane High School in Brooklyn on an academic rather than athletic scholarship, Thomas was a star center in the mid-1950s, cleaning the glass like no other Lion has ever done. He finished his Columbia career with both the single-season and career rebounding leader—record that stand today 60 years later. In the 1955-56 season Thomas was voted both the most valuable player and the first African American to captain an Ivy League basketball team. As a student leader off the court, he worked with Columbia’s NAACP organization to help increase admissions of African Americans at the University.

A 1956 graduate of Columbia College, Thomas also earned a law degree from Columbia in 1963 after serving four years as a navigator in the United States Air Force. Like his rebounding records, his career of civic leadership and service to New York City has spanned the decades and continues to this day.

www.columbia.edu/blackhistory

Congressman Hakim Jeffries

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams

Prof. Cornell West, PhD, keynote speaker

MLK Celebration at BAM

F

or the 29th year, Brooklyn Art Museum hosted New York City’s largest public celebration of the great civil rights leader. This year’s main event featured a keynote address by author, professor, and activist Dr. Cornel West, with musical performances by Sandra St. Victor and Oya’s Daughter and the New York Fellowship Mass Choir. Following the morning events, West signed copies of The Radical King, his new collection of King’s writings, and Black Prophetic Fire, a collection of dialogues on black leaders between West and scholar Christa Buschendorf.

Brooklyn District Attorney Kenneth Thompson

Citywide MLK Celebration in Irvington

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The Positive Community February 2015

L–R: Adrian Council, H. Grady James IV, Rev. H. Grady James III, Rev. Ralph Branch and Bro. James Harris North Jersey Baptist Association Moderator Ralph Branch shares the Cultural Narrative on the back cover of the 2015 calendar Photos: Karen Waters

. Grady James, III and the First Bethel Baptist Church commemorated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The theme was “Pressing for the Prize as We Persevere in the Struggle”.

Reverend Ralph M. Branch was the guest speaker. His message emphasized that the deliverance of black people was and is done by the power of God. “We must participate in our own liberation.”

Adrian Council, publisher of the The Positive Community presented the 2015 Positive Community Commemorative calendar. The theme of the calendar is “Our Children, Our Culture, Our Faith”. Mr. Council said, “We have to represent our culture to a new language of freedom”.

Reverend Branch challenged the young people to identify the black leaders in the calendar and to state the contributions to the culture of black people in the history of America.

Pastor James expressed the hope that all people of color will appreciate how we are the product of our culture. We must work tirelessly with integrity, strong moral character and with the faith in the spirit of Jesus Christ.

Young people embrace the calendar as Rev. Branch challenged them to name the heroes on the back cover thepositivecommunity.com

Rev. Daughtry Hailed as a Sage

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L–R: Mayor Bill de Blasio,

Photos: Leroy Applin

Dr. Karen S. Daughtry, and amily, congregation, community leaders and Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry friends joined together for a living tribute to a humble preacher, community activist and selfless servant—a sage. Reverend Dr. Herbert Daughtry, pastor of The House of the Lord was celebrated in a day of recognition for his work as pastor of his church and a voice for righteousness, peace and justice. Over the years, Rev. Daughtry has maintained a position on the front lines seeking to confront the injustices of those who would violate the rights of the weak, the poor and the disenfranchised. He has always been comforter to the suffering and brokenhearted; leaders in business and government seek his counsel and wisdom!

Rev. Daughtry hails from a family that has produced five generations of black church leaders. Currently National Presiding Minister of The House of the Lord L–R: Councilwoman Inez Barron, Rev. Al Sharpton, Dr. Karen S. Churches, he has served as chairman of the National Daughtry, Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, Mr. Charles Barron, Ms. Gwen Carr (the mother of Eric Garner) Black United Front as well as founder and president of the African People's Christian Organization. His more than 50 years of involvement in church and community service have earned him the title, "The People's Pastor."

The event themed, Sons and Daughters of the City Celebrate a Sage, was held at the House of the Lord Church in Brooklyn on January 31, 2014.

When all is said and done, it can truly be said that Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry has followed the biblical leadership example, “He who would become greatest among you, let him become server of all.” —AAC

L–R: Bruce Ratner, chairman of Forest City Ratner Companies; Dr. Karen S. Daughtry; Comptroller Scott Stringer; Rev. Daughtry; Randi Weingarte, president of American Federation of Teachers and Rev. Leah Daughtry

L–R: Bishop Eric Figueroa, Former Mayor David Dinkins, Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, Rev. Al Sharpton, Bishop Huie Rogers, and Bishop Gerald Seabrooks

thepositivecommunity.com

February 2015 The Positive Community

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Photos: Shannon Stukes/JF Allen Photography

Bishop Reginal T. Jackson leading Alter Call prayer

The AME Church, Black Solidarity Sunday and the Seat of Activism BY: QUINITA EDMONIA GOOD

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here’s an air of solidarity in the AfricanAmerican community, and the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) is at the forefront of institutions that refuse to turn a blind eye to our suffering. From the Underground Railroad to the settlement of black communities of former slaves, the establishment of higher education institutions for blacks, participation in the Civil Rights Movement, to today’s outcries of justice for our black men, the AME Church has had its hand in it all.

In response to the murders of four African American men and one pre-teen by police in 2014, the AME Church launched Black Solidarity Sunday, which took place on December 14th last year in AME, AME Zion, Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME), Church of God in Christ (COGIC), National Baptist, Progressive Baptist, and other churches across the country. For Michael Brown (Ferguson, MO), Eric Garner (Staten Island, NY), 12-year-old Tamir Rice (Cleveland, OH), John Crawford (Beavercreek, OH), and Ezell Ford (Los Angeles, (CA), the African-American community is saying, “Black Lives Matter.”

34 The Positive Community

February 2015

“Black Solidarity Sunday represented several things,” said AME Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, prelate of the 20th District and the Church’s Ecumenical and Social Action officer. “First of all,” he explained, “it represented the fact that we were trying to bring our people together all across the country in a united effort to show justice. Secondly, it was an effort to bring us together in order to improve our own lives and not depend on others to do that for us; and third, it helped us to be consistent with the legacy of the Black Church.

Bishop Jackson spent Black Solidarity Sunday at St. Matthew’s AME Church in Orange, NJ, where the Reverend Dr. Lanel Guyton is the pastor and Jackson previously pastored for 31 years. “The Black Church has always been at the vanguard of issues of justice as it relates to people in our communities,” Jackson said. “And, I remind people that growth in the Black Church was when the church was more socially active.”

Dr. Guyton is in agreement and adds that “Solidarity Sunday was not born, but reborn as a response to the tragedies unfolding against blacks who were unarmed when shot dead by police.” He went on to say, “And, out thepositivecommunity.com

T

he AMEC grew out of the Free African Society (FAS) which Richard Allen, Absalom Jones, and others established in Philadelphia in 1787. When officials at St. George’s MEC pulled blacks off their knees while praying, FAS members discovered just how far American Methodists would go to enforce racial discrimination against African Americans. Hence, these members of St. George’s made plans to transform their mutual aid society into an African congregation. Although most wanted to affiliate with the Protestant Episcopal Church, Allen led a small group who resolved to remain Methodists.

In 1794 Bethel AME was dedicated with Allen as pastor. To establish Bethel’s independence from interfering white Methodists, Allen, a former Delaware slave, successfully sued in the Pennsylvania courts in 1807 and 1815 for the right of his congregation to exist as an independent institution. Because black Methodists in other middle Atlantic communities encountered racism and desired religious autonomy, Allen called them to meet in Philadelphia to form a new Wesleyan denomination, the African Methodist Episcopal church.

Today, the African Methodist Episcopal Church has membership in twenty Episcopal Districts in thirty-nine countries on five continents. The work of the Church is administered by twenty-one active bishops, and nine General Officers who manage the departments of the Church. (Ref: ame-church.com)

of this movement, the slogan ‘Black Lives Matter’ was born, and that stretched across the nation, fueled by social media tools that were unavailable during the original Civil Rights Movement.

“From the days of Emancipation to the Civil Rights era, unity among blacks has always been a way of striving for freedom and equal rights,” declared Guyton. “But before a rash of incidents targeting black males and black females broke out in almost an unprecedented pace, black solidarity seemed like a forgotten tool. It was almost as if many thought we had moved past racial identities and identity politics. Nevertheless, each incident involving African Americans versus persons serving in law enforcement contradicted this thought that we were in a post-racial era.”

On Black Solidarity Sunday, St. Matthew’s AME Church was packed to capacity. Guyton observed that, “There were at least 400 to 500 people. Members of the various churches were asked to wear black to send a clear message that black lives not only matter, but are of significant value.”

Writer Michael Barga knows this is all too true. In his article on the web site The Social Action History Project, “African Methodist Episcopal Church (1794–Present),” he writes, “The vision of the . . . AME Church has remained consistent throughout its existence and is a strongly social and service-oriented spiritual community.”

He goes on to write about how the AME Church, like the Black Church in general, has addressed many issues and concerns of the black community since the time of physical slavery when the Church’s founder, Bishop Richard Allen, bought his freedom and started the Church.

When Bishop Jackson spoke about the church being more socially active in the past, something resonated within me. I remembered that, when I was young, the strength of my community made me feel powerful, not powerless.

I remember the Civil Rights Movement and the cohesive African-American communities that supported it. I remember, as a child, that our play songs and church hymns alike sang of outcries, deliverance, social action, and the need for collective faith. Even at that young age, we were aware of the American political machine and how it worked against us. During those days, we didn’t fight one another. We fought the system; and despite many trials and tribulations, we did win some ground and survived. I think now we’ve learned that surviving is not enough. To preserve our communities, and even our lives, we must stay together.

Quinita E. Good is the founder and operator of Qwrites Writing & Editorial Svcs. She can be reached at qwrites@live.com.

thepositivecommunity.com

February 2015 The Positive Community

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L-R: Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson; Verona Brewton, director, Minority Initiatives at Zimmer Inc.; and Atty. James Austin

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

Photos: Vincent Bryant

Start Moving Start Living Online Documentary Seeks to Educate About Obesity and Mobility

BY JEAN NASH WELLS

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L–R: First Lady Patricia Butts of Abyssinian Baptist Church; Internist Carla Harwell, MD; Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon; Professor Yashika Watkins, PhD., Chicago State University College of Health Sciences; and Dr. Michael Parks an orthopedic reconstructive surgeon in NYC.

tart Moving Start Living is a groundbreaking documentary, created by Movement is Life (MIL) to educate communities on the importance of mobility and behavior change. The film was premiered at the 134th Annual Session of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. in September, 2014. A panel discussion about what churches and other faith-based organizations can do to get their communities more physically active followed the screening.

Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon, NY who appears in the documentary, was one of the panelists. "The African American community suffers from many health disparities. One way we can address them is by influencing the members of our faith communities to become more physically active,” he said. “Join me in celebrating this documentary, which speaks to the potential to have a vibrant life.” In the film, Rev. Richardson describes how his church has taken steps thepositivecommunity.com

to improve the food that is served there. “No more fried chicken,” he reports. “It’s baked now.”

The 23-minute documentary highlights the effects of obesity and arthritis/joint pain and the downward spiral that results. The focus of the documentary is to get people to start moving to combat joint pain and obesity and the other health problems that follow. Viewers will see the struggles of people who are obese. “Getting out of bed is a problem,” said one woman who at just over five feet tall weighs 272 pounds. “You don’t just get up, you roll. It’s a problem.” She says, however, that she has begun and is committed to losing weight.

We urge you to watch the documentary at www.startmovingstartliving.com and share it with others. Movement is Life is a cross collaborative group of individuals and organizations that recognizes the significant importance and impact of the faith based community and the ability to bring awareness to these critical issues.

February 2015 The Positive Community

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Tamika Mallory presents award to Dr. Bonaparte

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octor/Pastor Bonaparte has a love for people, especially those who are most vulnerable and are facing challenges to their physical, mental and spiritual well-being. As a pastor, a bishop, and a physician, his capacity to demonstrate his love for people is amazing. In addition to caring for the spiritual and physical health needs of so many in New Jersey through his work at New Hope Church of God, he also finds ways to reach out around the country and the world. He funds most of these efforts from his own pocket because he understands that this kind of love requires sacrifice. Dr. Bonaparte has a long history of international medical mission work. He is passionate about that work, but he always notes that “charity begins at home.” He provides lots of free medical advice and is in the process of seeking support for a free health clinic in Trenton.

Because he serves that community as a pastor, he sees the acute need for caring, quality health services and health education. Pastor Bonaparte often partners with other organizations to provide health education and health services from three NHCOG locations. On Labor Day 2014, he held the 4th annual “Revival in the Park,” which paired prayer and spiritual encouragement with healthcare screenings and education, as well as some good, old-fashioned fun for all ages. Over 4,700 people from the Trenton community attended.

He also provides a food pantry and free clothing to those in need. He is confident that one day he will be able to also provide short term housing to those facing a housing crisis.

With all he does, Pastor Bonaparte finds the energy to conduct an international prayer line every weekday morning at 5:30 am. Before the sun is up, hundreds of people with diverse needs are greeted with his booming voice declaring, “Welcome to early morning prayer!

This is your spiritual workout.” And so, it jumps off from there, as he comforts and advises caller after caller. His passion and his compassion are palpable. He doesn’t stop until he has taken a long list of requests for prayer to heal hearts, minds, and bodies, and to deliver from the anguish of all kinds of legal, financial, relationship, health and other matters.

Pastor Bonaparte shows that love is an action word. There is not enough space or time to talk about all he has done and is doing. Pastor Bonaparte recently said that the only debt he wants in this world is his debt to God to love all of us. Pastor Bonaparte is a humble servant of God and never seeks the spotlight. However, he is exactly the kind of man who should be held up as an example for others. With or without recognition, he lights up the world around him.

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The Positive Community February 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Bruce Moore

Choice Health Award Winner

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Is it getting harder for you to take care of your loved one safely?

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Call our toll-free Horizon NJ Health Enrollment Hotline to learn more about how to apply: 1-844-444-4410 (TTY services are available at 1-844-889-7700) *Members must meet certain financial and clinical (medical) requirements to be eligible for the MLTSS program.

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.

EarthTalk®

FROM THE EDITORS OF E - THE ENVIRONMENTAL MAGAZINE

B

etween mercury poisoning, overfishing and the environmental impacts of fish farms or “aquaculture,” some might expect to see a “Proceed with Caution” sign above seafood counters soon. Others contend that fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet, providing high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends eating up to 12 ounces of fish and shellfish per week, but only if they are “lower in mercury.”

Mercury can be released into the air through industrial pollution and can accumulate in streams and oceans.

The FDA warns that if you regularly eat types of fish that are high in mercury, it can accumulate in your blood stream. They add that mercury is removed from the body naturally, but it may take over a year for levels to drop significantly. For this reason, women trying to become pregnant should avoid eating high-in-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, and gravitate toward low-in-mercury shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock and catfish. According to the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s “Super Green List,” fish that are low in mercury and also good sources of especially healthy “long-chain” omega-3 fatty acids include Atlantic mackerel from Canada and the U.S., freshwater Coho salmon from the U.S., wild-caught Pacific sardines and Alaskan wild-caught salmon (fresh or canned).

Of course, it’s possible to obtain long-chain omega-3s without eating fish. Ovega-3s supplement is derived from a strain of algae that naturally produces high amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the healthiest omega-3s. Although most people think fish are the original source of DHA and EPA, these omega-3s actually come from the algae lower in the food chain.

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The Positive Community February 2015

“When salmon farming began in North America, farmers discovered that without fish oil in their diet, farmed salmon did not contain salmon oil in their tissues,” says Udo Erasmus, Ph.D., author of Fats that Heal-Fats that Kill.

“Fish get their ‘fish oil’ from the foods they eat. When we trace these supplement oils back to their origin, we find that the oils we call ‘fish oils’ are actually made by plants at the bottom of the food chain. One-celled redbrown algae makes fish oils. Fish oils are actually plantbased products.”

Algae and other plant-based omega fatty acids also will not deplete the ocean’s supply of fish. Industrial overfishing practices have wiped out certain types of fish before they’ve had a chance to repopulate, and unintentionally killed other marine species besides fish—known as “bycatch”—in their large nets. Upwards of one million sea turtles, for example, were estimated to have been killed as bycatch from 1990-2008, according to a report published in Conservation Letters in 2010. The transition to aquaculture, where fish are raised in confined quarters (like the “factory farming” of pigs, cows and chickens) has its own environmental burdens. According to the Mangrove Action Project, an estimated three million hectares of important coastal wetlands, including mangroves, have already been lost in order to make room for artificial shrimp ponds.

CONTACTS: FDA, www.fda.gov; Seafood Watch, www.seafoodwatch.org; Ovega, www.ovega.com.

EarthTalk® is produced by Doug Moss and Roddy Scheer and is a registered trademark of Earth Action Network Inc. View past columns at: www.earthtalk.org. Or e-mail us your question: earthtalk@emagazine.com. thepositivecommunity.com

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Treating the Heart— and the Soul

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ow a heart-stopping ordeal led to an extraordinary bond between a woman and her heart specialists at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center.

On an August morning in 2005, Brenda Leonard stood in the First Baptist Church of Englewood, chatting with a fellow choir member. As she was talking, Mrs. Leonard passed out, her body falling to the floor. "I don't know how long I wasn't breathing," recalls Mrs. Leonard who was rushed unconscious to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. "For a few minutes, I was considered dead."

Doctors discovered she had suffered from ventricular fibrillation, in which the heart beats so fast and irregularly that it stops pumping blood. Its cause was ventricular tachycardia, a fast heart rhythm emanating from the lower part of her heart. The tachycardia, now treated with medication and an implanted defibrillator, was one of a handful of severe cardiac issues Mrs. Leonard has faced throughout her life; all complications resulting from a bout of rheumatic fever she came down with at just seven months old.

Mrs. Leonard's 2005 brush with death also represented a turning point for the now 72-year-old. She remained with the hospital's cardiac team and developed an extraordi-

narily close relationship with her cardiologist, Dr. Jeffrey Matican, Chief of Cardiology at Englewood.

"He's like my favorite uncle," says the soft-spoken Mrs. Leonard of Matican, 14 years her junior. "I had a favorite uncle who was so loveable and that is how I feel about him. He just makes me feel good, regardless of how bad I feel."

Mrs. Leonard is no stranger to hospitals and doctors, and what makes a good one. Following her bout with rheumatic fever, Mrs. Leonard's heart permanently weakened. Over the decades, Mrs. Leonard has undergone heart valve replacement surgery and received a pacemaker. In recent years she developed heart failure, and takes a slew of medications daily to control it. With that under control, she now has swelling in her ankles; Dr. Matican, of course, is on the case.

"She's been through a lot, but no matter what is going on with Brenda, she always has a good attitude, she is not a complainer," says Dr. Matican, who suspects the ankle swelling is not related to Mrs. Leonard's heart problems; in February she was scheduled for further testing.

When asked why Mrs. Leonard may call him an uncle, Dr. Matican laughs.

“We sit down and discuss her illness,” he says. “I think it’s important to spend

that extra time with the patient, to have that old fashioned doctor-patient relationship. I discuss with my patients in layman’s terms what’s going on so they can understand, and become more comfortable with their illness.”

"Part of the healing process is feeling cared for, feeling understood," he continues. "You are not just a patient, you are a person here. That's what makes this place special."

Dr. Matican says he is not alone in his bedside manner. While he and his colleagues have all trained and worked in the bustling major New York and New Jersey medical centers, Englewood Hospital’s size allows them greater intimacy with patients. "You can speak to any of the other docs who have worked at most of the surrounding hospitals," he says, "and they have the same sense that there is a feeling of caring and closeness that you don't get at the larger hospitals."

Or you can just ask Mrs. Leonard.

She has felt a special connection to Dr. Matican since her first appointment almost a decade ago. She sat in the exam room with a list of questions to ask him, tucked inside her purse. The list never had to come out. "He made me feel so comfortable," she says.

"I'm blessed I have a doctor like that."

The Fifth Annual

A night of heart health information and music.

FREE!

Host: Liz Black (WBLS and WLIB Radio)

OPEN TO ALL!

February 20th • 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Headliner: Bryan Andrew Wilson

Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Ferolie Gallery and Chiang Auditorium 350 Engle Street Englewood, NJ 07631 Featuring:

PROGRAM Heart

5:30 - 7 p.m.

Mark American Heart Month with a buffet dinner, heart health information, one-onone conversations with physicians and a tour through our “virtual heart unit.”

Soul

7 - 9 p.m.

Celebrate Black History Month with gospel, R&B, jazz, and hip-hop performances and a Community Leadership Awards Ceremony.

RSVP by calling 866-980-EHMC (3462)

Noe Feliz

Tara Bramble

Darryl Anderson

Music Director: Martin Christie

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR Kahlil Carmichael is the spiritual director and founder of It Is Well Wellness and Worship Center in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a spiritual leader and the owner of The Fitness Doctor; a fitness and wellness consulting company. He writes a monthly column for The Positive Community Magazine and is the author of 50 Tips for a Better You! To grow spiritually and improve physically, or have Pastor Carmichael present his wellness seminar to your church or group you can email Kahlil at Pastor@itiswellchurch.com or call 732-921-3746.

We’ve Come This Far

I

really enjoyed the movie Selma, which chronicles the tumultuous threemonth period in 1965 when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights in the face of violent opposition. When I think about all the hardships my ancestors (as well as my parents and grandparents) had to overcome just to live well and enjoy the freedoms of this great country, I realize how far we have come in such a short time.

As we celebrate Dr. King and Black History Month, we would certainly be remiss if we did not pause and reflect upon the accomplishments we have made as a people. We truly have come this far by faith —leaning on the Lord!

It is a good practice for all humans to pause and reflect on their accomplishments and life victories. We spend so much time thinking about our mistakes and what did not work that too often we discount the progress we’ve made.

I especially noticed this tendency when it came to my clients at The Fitness Doctor, as well as those who worship at It Is Well Living Church. People who may have never worked out before have successfully incorporated a consistent exercise program and healthy eating regimen through my personal training instruction. Hallelujah!!! Yet all some individuals can focus upon is what they have not accomplished —the weight they haven’t lost yet, the amount of repetitions they are unable to complete in a set, and a myriad of other negative statements! Unknowingly, these people (who are striving to make changes) self-sabotage themselves with negative words and a pessimistic attitude.

You can do it my brother and my sister. The fact that you are even considering starting or continuing an exercise program is outstanding. You’ve come this far by faith. Don’t turn back now!! I am praying for you.

Baptist Church in Brooklyn is offering a group exercise class through The Berean Community Family and Life Center on Saturdays at 12:30pm led by Shayla Mcgrady.

Shayla is positive and a great motivator. She will keep you moving forward. For more information call (718)774-0466 • Understand that exercise and healthy eating are lifelong experiences. You never arrive when it comes to exercise.

The moment you reach a fitness or health goal, take a moment to celebrate then get back to the gym (church) and keep going!

• Ask a professional fitness trainer to assess your goals and your progress. Many people erroneously assess their fitness and health goals. For example, most people think they should focus on losing scale weight, but the truth of the matter is focusing on losing inches is better than focusing on scale weight. Scale weight measures muscle loss. Focusing on losing inches involves body fat reduction. (For more details email me at thefitnessdoctor@aol.com) A qualified fitness professional can help you properly asses where you are on your fitness journey.

• And lastly but certainly not least, speak life! Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Learn to overcome how you may feel and what you may even see as faults, and speak words of encouragement and affirmation. For example the next time you are tempted to give up and say, “This [fitness regimen] is not working, I am going to quit!” try instead, “I am transforming my life and for that I am thankful!”

Here are some tips to help you stay positive as you continue on your journey to becoming healthier and fit: • Find an exercise group led by a positive, spirit-filled, and motivated leader to keep you focused on your accomplishments and not your shortcomings! Berean

44 The Positive Community

February 2015

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. thepositivecommunity.com

Community Health Programs

and Free Screenings at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

Blood Pressure Screenings and Heart Health Education } Free Thursday, February 19: 11:30 am -1:30 pm Featuring information about Reiki, presented by Certified Reiki Therapist. No registration required.

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, L Building, Second Floor (outside Cardiac Cath Lab Administrative Suite)

} Free Cervical Cancer Screening

Saturday, February 28: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

●

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

Participants will receive: • PAP Smear • HPV Testing (as indicated by American Cancer Society screening guidelines.)

Eligibility Criteria: • Uninsured Women Ages 21 - 65 • No known history of Cervical Cancer • Prior PAP Smear > 12 months ago • Must meet NJ State Income Eligibility

Registration Required. Please call 973.926.2064.

} PLAY IT SAFE

Free Cardiac and Concussion Screenings

Saturday, March 21: 8 am – Noon

●

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

Free Cardiac Screening: 6-18 years old. Open to the first 130 athletes.

Free Concussion Screening: 12 years old and up. Open to the first 80 athletes.

Registration Required. Please call 973.926.2064 or email teamlink@barnabashealth.org.

201 Lyons Avenue, Newark, New Jersey 07112

barnabashealth.org/nbi

Visit Our New Improved Interactive Website: The Newark Municipal Council The Newark Municipal Council

THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY.COM

PRIMARY MEDICAL PRACTICE (973) 877-6120** Black History Month The Newark Municipal Council The The Newark Newark Municipal Municipal Council Council PRIMARY MEDICAL PRACTICE (973) 877-6120** k Municipal Council BERGEN STREET (973) 972-7800*** The Newark Municipal Council Special: BERGEN STREET (973) 972-7800*** Comprehensive medical care for adults, asthma, diabetes and blood pressure management.

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PEDIATRIC PRACTICE (973) 733-7533* Comprehensive pediatric care for youth up to 18 years.

ion and basic dental care for adults and children.

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Immunizations children Screening 0-18 years.

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Comprehensive pediatric care for youth up to 18 years.

WIC (973) 733-7628* PEDIATRIC PRACTICE (973) 733-7533* PEDIATRIC PEDIATRIC PRACTICE PRACTICE (973) (973) 733-7533* 733-7533* WIC (973) 733-7628* THPRACTICE INSURANCE INFORMATION &food ENROLLMENT** Supplemental for pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and C (973) 733-7533* Comprehensive pediatric care for youth up to 18 years.

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nsive pediatric care for youth up to 18 years.

(973) 877-6106 Supplemental food for pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and children under the age of 5. Breastfeeding support is provided.

Health Center Locations WIC (973) 733-7628* WOMEN’S HEALTH (40 733-7628* and over) (973) 733-4403* WIC WIC (973) (973) 733-7628* WIC (973) 733-7628* WOMEN’S HEALTH (40 and over) (973) 733-4403* 110 William Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102* 394 University Avenue, Newark, New Jersey 07102 ** Screening Supplemental food pregnant and infants breastfeeding women, infants and Breast Cancer (Mammograms) andfor Cervical Cancer (Pap Smear) Supplemental Supplemental food food for for pregnant pregnant and and breastfeeding breastfeeding women, women, infants and and Test.

140 Bergen Street, Suite E-1640, Newark New Jersey 07103*** children under the age of 5. Breastfeeding support is provided.

children children under under the theage age of of 5.5. Breastfeeding Breastfeeding support support isisprovided. provided. d for pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and Breast Cancer (Mammograms) Screening and Cervical Cancer (Pap Smear) Test. the age of 5. Breastfeeding support is provided.

WOMEN’S and733-4403* over) (973) 733-4403* HEALTH INSURANCE INFORMATION &(973) ENROLLMENT** WOMEN’S WOMEN’S HEALTH HEALTH (40 (40HEALTH and and over) over)(40 (973) 733-4403* ALTH (40 and Breast over) (973) 733-4403* Breast Cancer (Mammograms) andSmear) Cervical Cancer (Pap& Smear) Test.

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394 University Avenue, Newark, 394 394 University University Avenue, Newark, Newark, New New Jersey Jersey 07102 07102New ** ** Jersey 07102 ** m Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102* Avenue, 140 Bergen Street, Suite E-1640, Newark New Jersey 07103*** 140 Bergen Street, ** Suite Suite E-1640, E-1640, Newark Newark New New Jersey Jersey 07103*** 07103*** ty Avenue, Newark, 140 NewBergen Jersey Street, 07102 THEPOSITIVECOMMUNITY.COM! , Suite E-1640, Newark New Jersey 07103***

46

The Positive Community February 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

8.375 x 10.875 UH Generic Ad_Layout 1 4/11/14 10:33 AM Page 2

WELCOME TO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL. EXCELLENT MEDICINE. EXCELLENT CARE. THAT IS OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU. UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL IS RANKED AMONG THE VERY BEST IN NEW JERSEY and INDEPENDENTLY RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE AND QUALITY CARE. n Honor-roll recognition for the rapid treatment of stroke patients

n 5-star rating for treatment of sepsis and appendicitis

n Certified in Advanced Heart Failure care

n Excellence in the clinical specialties of nephrology, orthopedics

and ENT (ear, nose and throat)

n Exceptional trauma care at our Level 1 Trauma Center

n One of only two NJ sites for liver transplantation

n Neurosurgery Excellence Award

We’re very proud of this recognition. But please remember, your care will always be our number one priority. We promise to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients. We understand that every one of our patients deserves and will receive not only the very best medical care but also our full attention and respect.

For more information about University Hospital, please call us at: 973-972-4300 or go to our website at: www.uhnj.org 1

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A healthy heart Fatherhood

IS MY REASON

IS MY RESPONSIBILITY

A dedicated Heart and Vascular Institute offering the most advanced diagnostic and treatment services, roboticallyassisted surgeries and worldclass physician care. Just another reason to make Saint Michael’s your hospital.

Find out more at smmcnj.org.

Saint Michael’s

IS MY HOSPITAL

48

The Positive Community February 2015

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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

Jazz on Fifth Young Guitarist "King" Solomon Hicks Shines

T

hanks to noted impresario Bob Tate, who has joined with Emmett Causey, the general manager of the Harlem Chamber of Commerce, the good ol’ days are back in Harlem. Every Friday, Jazz on Fifth takes over the elegant Gran Piatto D’oro Ristorante where neighbors and friends enjoy a night out with good food and great music at a reasonable price.

We were in the audience recently when young and gifted guitar phenomenon “King” Solomon Hicks wowed the crowd playing some of the best jazz and blues you can find anywhere. Listening to Solomon on the guitar and singing, backed by Neil Clarke, percussion; Mel Davis, organ; Ray Blue, sax; and Phil Young on drums, images of legends George Benson, Wes Montgomery and B.B. King come to mind. This young man is surely on the path to music stardom. Gran Piatto D'oro is located at 1429 Fifth Avenue, between 116th and 117th Streets.

For more information and reservations call Bob Tate: 917-402-2644 or Emmett Causey: 917-742-1239.

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The Tate family, L–R: Jeanine, Bob, Sandy and (2nd from left) Ami K. of Piatto D’oro.

Photos: Seitu Oronde

L–R: Neil Clarke, percussion; Mel Davis, organ; Ray Blue, sax, Phil Young on drums and “King” Solomon on guitar.

February 2015 The Positive Community

49

JOANNE J. NOELLE SELAH!

Professor Joanne J. Noel, B.A., M.A., M. DIV., DMIN is Associate Professor of English and Director of the IRC, Pillar College

Faking the Faith: The Mask of Sacred Rhetoric We wear the mask that grins and lies; it hides our cheeks; it shades our eyes—Paul Laurence Dunbar ne Sunday morning I asked a sister how she was doing. I had noted that she was silent and seemed to be distracted. She was fidgeting a bit with her pleather Dooney and Bourke pocketbook. “How are you—” Before I could get the greeting out completely, she retorted with a kettle-like shrill in her voice, “Blessed and highly favored.” While that may have been true on the spiritual level, I was left wondering how she was really doing. Was she happy? Sad? Did she need prayer? Did she have a good week? Her response left me with the realization that in some church cultures, sacred rhetoric is used to conceal the authentic self. That is, church rhetoric, functioning as “Christianese,” masks pain and camouflages despair in order to promote a certain expected image and idea that fits the shared norms, values, beliefs and ideals of a Christian community.

The rhetoric of sacred spaces forms a social community (the church) as well as a spiritual and cognitive network for spiritual maturation and healthy living. While some of the rhetoric of sacred spaces can be uplifting and inspiring (sermons or prayers), when it functions as “Christianese,”— trite, religious rhetoric, it can be off-putting. For example, in some churches you will consistently hear, “Blessed and highly favored”; “too blessed to be stressed”; “too anointed to be disappointed.”

Some of the clichéd rhetoric of sacred spaces simultaneously conceals and reveals. It conceals emotional pain that unmasks an embedded theological notion which suggests that the life of the Christian excludes suffering. However, based on Jesus’ proclamation that life consists of tribulation, this theology has no basis in scripture (John 16:33).

While some Christians will experience a state of blessedness, there will be occasions when they will experience some setbacks that bring disappointment: losing a cherished loved one; being diagnosed with a terminal disease; failing an exam; being passed over for a promotion; not being able to

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February 2015

have children; not finding the right spouse. Life for the Christian will entail a measure of suffering, but Jesus is the source of peace and the perfect illustration of overcoming.

Others use Christianese as a subterfuge because of their uncertainty that shared secrets will remain confidential. It is no secret that some people’s intimate experiences become the text for many Sunday morning sermons or coffee hour conversations.

The church ought to be a space where transparency is welcomed, but oftentimes some churches foster an atmosphere of concealment because their tradition intimates that only certain kinds of people or behaviors are accepted. In this sense, the church forces us to pretend that we live perfect lives unassailed by hardship. The church is a house of prayer for all people, embracing all, excluding none. If the generosity of God’s grace is not part of the church’s curriculum, then it’s easy to see why the message of “taking everything to God in prayer” is occluded.

From the historical experience of the black community, masking can be traced back to slavery and is illustrated in Caribbean (Brer Anansi) and African American literature as the “trickster figure” who used masking subversively as a means of resistance and survival. In Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man, the dying grandfather of the narrator reveals that his submissiveness has been a ruse to subversively fight against racial oppression, so he encourages his grandson to “Live with your head in the lion’s mouth. I want you to overcome ‘em with yeses, undermine ‘em with grins, agree ‘em to death and destruction...”

Masking was a strategy of survival during periods of oppression; however, there is something specious when sacred rhetoric is used by the Christian believer to “hide our cheeks and shade our eyes.” It’s folly to fake the faith because ultimately we are only fooling ourselves and depriving ourselves of the opportunity to be open with God. Instead of using sacred rhetoric to conceal pain, a more genuine approach would be to simple say, “Keep me in prayer.” We don’t have to fake the faith.

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It Just Gets Better with Time

R

Tselane and J . G McCann, Sr.

ev. Dr. J.G. McCann, Sr. and Mrs. Tselane S. McCann celebrated 30 years of marriage with a vow renewal ceremony at Thessolonia Worship Center in the Bronx. Lady Tselane’s brother, Rev. Shellie Sampson III, officiated. He is the pastor of Orange County Gospel Church in Goshen, N.Y. They are the children of the late pastor of Thessalonia, the beloved Rev. Shellie Sampson, Jr. After the service, family and friends joined the Rev. Dr. and Mrs. McCann for a joyous reception at the VIP Country Club in New Rochelle, NY.

Mother Delorenzo Sampson walks her daughter Tselane down the aisle

The Bridal Party, the McCanns and their grandchildren The Happy couple entering the reception

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February 2015 The Positive Community

51

WE’RETURNIN’ TURNIN’UPUP WE’RE THEHEAT! HEAT! THE

Hezekiah Walker Hezekiah Walker featuring Erica Campbell (of Mary Mary), Tasha Cobb, featuring Erica Campbell (of Mary Mary), Tasha Cobb, Vashawn Mitchell & JJ Hairston • 2/12

Vashawn Mitchell & JJ Hairston • 2/12

Shaggy Ladies Night R&B Maxi Priest Extravaganza Shaggy Ladies Night R&B at The Prudential Center Sanchez

Swan Lake State Lake Ballet Theatre Swan of Russia

with K-Ci & Jo Jo, Jaheim Friday, February 13 at 8pm Friday, February 13 at 8pm and more!

Sunday, February 15 at 3pm

Maxi Priest Extravaganza with K-Ci & Jo Jo, Jaheim Friday, February 13 at 8pm at The Center Sanchez andPrudential more!

State Ballet Theatre February 15 at 3pm ofSunday, Russia

The Prudential Center Lafayette13Street Friday,25 February at 8pm

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Lilly’sPurse Purple

Lula Washington Dance LulaTheatre Washington

performance is dedicated Omaha PlasticTheater Purse Company ThisDance Theatre

to Dr. Clement Alexander Price Saturday, 21 Company at 2pm This performance is dedicated OmahaFebruary Theater Thursday, to Dr. February Clement 26 Alexander Price Saturday, February 21 at 2pmat 7:30pm

Thursday, February 26 at 7:30pm

The Prudential Center 25 Lafayette Street

Jersey Moves!

Festival of Dance Rev. Stef and Carolyn Dorfman Jubliation Choir with Jersey Moves!

Dance Company Dionne Warwick

Aretha Franklin “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Aretha NauturalFranklin Woman” and more!

The Price Is Right Live!

Ledisi The Intimate Truth Tour The hit interactive game show with Raheem DeVaughn that gives you the chance The Price Is Right Live!

Ledisi to win. and Leela James

Festival of Dance The Intimate Truth TourFriday, “Respect,” “Chain14ofatFools,” TheApril hit interactive Rev. Stef and Saturday, March 8pm Friday, March 20 at 8pm 17 at 8pm game show Friday, February 27 at 7:30pm Friday, March 13 at 8pm Carolyn Dorfman with Raheem DeVaughn that gives you the chance “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Jubliation Choir with Nautural Woman” and more! to win.

Dance Company and Leela James Dionne ForWarwick tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC • Groups: 973.297.5804 Saturday, March 14 at 8pm Friday, March 20 at 8pm Friday, April 17 at 8pm Friday, February 27 at 7:30pm Friday, March 13 at 8pm NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • One Center Street, Newark, NJ #NJPAC

For tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC • Groups: 973.297.5804 World Music Series sponsored by NEWAmerican JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • One Center Street, Newark, NJ Express

#NJPAC

World Music Series sponsored by American Express

PositiveCommunity_feb_7x9.5.indd 1

1/9/15 3:13 PM

11th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert at the Walt Whitman Theatre Hosted by New York State Senator Kevin Parker and A Shared Dream Foundation at Brooklyn College

L–R: Jeff Lindor, EmblemHealth Community Relations; Jumaane Williams, NY City Council, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer; NY State Sen. Kevin Parker

Bishop Hezekiah Walker

I

n his inspiring speech, Senator Parker emphasized the meaning of MLK Day: “This is an important day, a day when we very deliberately and thoughtfully thank and honor Dr.King for the work he accomplished; the hopes he held and shared with a divided nation.

Given the state of the nation around Civil Rights issues today, it’s important to remember Dr. King’s approach toward the Civil Rights Movement: nonviolent resistance.” Parker continued, “Nonviolent resistance is not a passive ideology. Standing up for our rights comes from an active perspective, a perspective that we must maintain to make meaningful strides toward great change.”

WBLS radio host Liz Black hosted the event that began with a Tribute to theAncestors libation led by Baba Ifayinka (Carl Fanfair) from Ile Osa Knaran Yoruba Cultural and Spiritual Center. Invocations by Rabbi Yechiel Kaufman and Bishop Orlando Findlayter followed. Olivia Gilmore sang both the National An-

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them and Negro National Anthem. Speakers included U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, New York City Public Advocate Letitia James, NYC Councilman Jumaane Williams, and A Shared Dream Foundation’s Board Chair, Tani Chambers.

Spirited performances were given by: Brooklyn United Marching Band; 13-year-old Devyn Tyson, “Princess of Soca”; I.E.T. Band; award winning spoken word artist Kavon Ward; Mr. Reed of America’s Got Talent and. The Stanleys (siblings Eric, Marcus, and Anhayla). Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Bishop Hezekiah Walker capped off the night with an hour-long performance that had the audience of 2,000 singing and dancing on their feet and in their seats.

EmblemHealth and CUNY provided sponsorship for the free event.Other partners included: Time Warner Cable, Entergy, Con Edison, SHARE NY, Optimum, 107.5 FM WBLS, and 1190 AM WLIB. February 2015 The Positive Community

53

First Baptist Church of Teaneck Invites You To Celebrate

Growing Greater Of Our Pastor

Reverend Marilyn Monroe Harris And The

First Baptist Church Of Teaneck Saturday, March 7, 2015 • 12pm—4pm

At The Venetian • 546 River Drive, Garfield, NJ For additional information please call church office: 201-837-1317 or email: Churchoffice@firstbaptistteaneck.org

1592 Teaneck Road Teaneck, NJ 07666

2 nd Annual

Women’s History Month Awards Breakfast

Honoring Legends & Legacies WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL OF UNITED WAY OF ESSEX AND WEST HUDSON Thursday, March 26, 2015 8:30am - 10:30am Nico Kitchen and Bar (at NJPAC) 1 Center St, Newark

Kindly RSVP by March 21, 2015 Purchase tickets online at: www.unitedwayessex.org For information please contact: Elise Counts ecounts@uwewh.org 973-854-2230

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The Positive Community February 2015

®

United Way of Essex and West Hudson thepositivecommunity.com

Frontiers International

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L–R: Roy Southerland; President Vincent Chiles; Rev. Louis Slade; Mayor Ras Baraka; John Brinkley; Darryl Clark Photos: Karen Waters

n January 19, 2014 Frontiers International Plainfield Area Club presented their 39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast. The longest running tribute to Dr. King in New Jersey, the breakfast was held at Plainfield High School.

Guest speaker for the event was Hon. Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark, NJ. Mayor Baraka served as principal of Newark’s Central High School prior to being elected mayor of New Jersey’s largest city in 2014. He spoke on the theme “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter” from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s, I Have a Dream: Writings and Speeches That Changed the World .

The breakfast highlights student groups, awards scholarships, and recognizes those in the community who have made outstanding contributions.

L–R: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, honorees Caryl Lucas and Zelda Spence, and Roy Southerland

HIGHER GROUND ASSOCIATION OF BAPTIST CHURCHES, INC. Dr. Joseph E. Woods, Founder & Visionary

“I press on toward the mark for the prize of the High calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14, KJV)

Inaugural Celebration Worship Experience Installing as Moderator, Dr. Joseph E. Woods Please join us for this momentous occasion as we introduce to you the newly formed Higher Ground Association of Baptist Churches, becoming the 6th Association in the state of New Jersey, proudly affiliated with the

General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc. & National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.

Saturday, March 7, 2015 @ 12 Noon Saint Phillips Baptist Church 445 Parkinson Avenue – Hamilton, NJ 08610

Guest Preacher

Host Pastor & Moderator Elect

Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp

Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.

Honoree Caryl Lucas with entrepreneur and business leader Jeffrey Dunn

Senior Pastor First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens Somerset, New Jersey

Dr. Joseph E. Woods

Senior Servant Leader & Pastor Saint Phillips Baptist Church of Hamilton Hamilton, New Jersey

You are invited to join us as we answer the call to place our feet on

Souvenir Journal Ads available until February 21, 2015 THE HIGHER GROUND ASSOCIATION OF BAPTIST CHURCHES Headquarters – 272 Dunns Mill Road, #200 – Bordentown, NJ 08505 Email: HigherGroundNJ@gmail.com, 609.543.2244 (T) 888.548.5111 (Toll Free) Website: www.highergroundnj.org - Facebook: www.facebook.com/highergroundnj

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February 2015 The Positive Community

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BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Farewell to Pastor Andraé Edward Crouch (July 1, 1942–January 8, 2015) Give thanks unto the Lord for all He has done, Turn on the Lights in Heaven, Lord Grace & Peace

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nother legend has entered the heavenly choir. The multi-titled, multi-talented, anointed Andraé E. Crouch passed away on January 8, 2015 leaving us with a cadre of musical memories and powerful classics that everyone (including the secular world) will never forget. The 72-year young California native was a gifted child who got his start at his father’s church. He often told the story about how his piano-playing was literally God-given. When he was a child, Andrae’s dad prayed for him and by faith not long after, Andrae was playing piano as if he’d taken lessons all his life. With that gift he became a gospel singer, choir director, songwriter, arranger, producer and pastor. None of these things ever made Crouch, he made them by putting God first in everything he did; and God allowed everything he touched to be anointed and blessed.

Known as “The Father of Modern Gospel Music,” Crouch composed classics like “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power,” “My Tribute (To God Be the Glory),” “Soon and Very Soon,” “We Are Not Ashamed,” and my Bishop, Sylvester Watts’ favorite, “I’ll Say Yes, Lord Yes.” Oh we can’t forget his 2011 hit led by Pastor Marvin Winans, “Let The Church Say Amen,” that covers every preacher’s sermon to the believer —powerful.

He left his mark on secular music a well, collaborating with greats like Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Quincy Jones. Did you know that he conducted the choirs that sang on the Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” and Madonna’s “Like a Prayer”? Not only that, but Crouch’s original musical arrangements were heard in the films The Color Purple and The Lion King, as well as the NBC tel-

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February 2015

evision series Amen. Through those projects, Crouch became noted for his talent of incorporating contemporary secular music styles into the gospel music that he grew up with. He was awarded nine GRAMMY® awards, six GMA Dove awards, two Image Awards, and received an Oscar nomination. He was also inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1998 and in 2004 became the only living contemporary gospel artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

As if that wasn’t enough, Crouch was the recipient of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences’ Inaugural Salute to Gospel Music Lifetime Achievement Award and recorded almost 20 albums, not to mention numerous compilations and appearances.

Andraé Crouch did it all, and to God be the Glory! He did it with love, he did it humbly, and he did it with passion. He represented what he sang, and every song was a declaration of victory and a reminder of God’s love and power. Crouch taught inspiration through his lyrics and compassion in the melodies of the music he made. In his lifetime, Andraé Crouch was able to minister in over 72 countries, play, sing and record. Never forgetting his community, he went back to his hometown, San Fernando, California, where it all began and pastored at his parents’ church with his twin sister, Pastor Sandra Crouch, at New Christ Memorial Church of God in Christ before going home to be with The Lord —the circle is complete.

You are loved, Mr. Crouch, and we thank God for your life. We shall never forget your works and labors of love, your songs will live forever!

“Just let me live my life and let it be pleasing Lord to thee And if I gain any praise, let it go to Calvary With His blood He has saved me, With His power He has raised me To God be the glory for the things He has done” —Andraé Edward Crouch thepositivecommunity.com

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February 2015 The Positive Community

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Rev. Jesse Jackson Keynotes Newark MLK Celebration L–R: Sheila Oliver, NJ State Assembly and Rev. Jesse L. Jackson

L–R: Marcia Brown, Esq., vice chancellor for External and Governmental Relations Rutgers; Hon. Dwayne Warren, mayor, Orange, NJ; Barbara George Johnson, executive director, NJ Urban Mayors Association

L–R: Fredericka Bey, educator and activist, with David Jefferson, Jr., executive director, My Brother's Keeper, Newark

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Photos: Karen Waters

ayor Ras J. Baraka; members of the Newark Municipal Council; Director of Arts, Cultural Development, and Tourism Gwen Moten; and other dignitaries celebrated the City of Newark's 27th Annual "Sing in Praise of King" observance at Newark Symphony Hall.

In his remarks Mayor Baraka noted that Dr. King's struggle for justice, human rights, and economic equality were still being waged, but in different arenas. The Mayor called upon residents to take action against injustices and not be silent, citing Newark's historic pioneering role.

"We remember what our great pioneer Kenneth Gibson said, 'Wherever America's cities are going, Newark will get there first.' Newark will lead the fight for justice. Newark will lead the fight for economic equality. Newark will lead the fight for voting rights. We will start the change our nation needs right here in Newark," Mayor Baraka said.

Keynote Speaker Reverend Jesse Jackson covered a wide range of topics, but most poignantly recalled Dr. King's last birthday in 1968. Jackson said that he and Dr. King spent most of the day in the Nobel Laureate's Atlanta home working on Dr. King's plans to eliminate poverty in America, meeting with representatives of multi-ethnic organizations.

"We are free, but not equal," Reverend Jackson said. "It is no longer about race, but fairness and justice. Dr. King calls us back now to demand our share of Silicon Valley and Wall

L–R: NJ State Senator Ron Rice with Penny Joseph, VP Community Relations, Panasonic

Street jobs; our share of justice; that banks return property they took from us; justice, fairness, and voting rights."

Dr. King continues to have a massive impact on the City of Newark and New Jersey in general. One of Dr. King's final speeches before his tragic death was given at South Side (new Malcolm X Shabazz) High School. Last year, City Hall's Lower Level Rotunda was renovated to serve as a memorial to Dr. King and his Newark visit.

There were special performances by the Provenance Music Group, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Choral Ensemble, and the Usaama Dance Company. Bob Pickett of WBLS Open Line was the host for the evening.

L–R: Tracy Munford, VP Public Relations, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC); Darrell Terry, COO of NBIMC; Dr. Gale Gibson, president, Essex County College; Jeannine LaRue, SVP Kaufman Zita Group; and Dr. John Brenner, president, NBIMC L–R: Terri Seeney, manager Corporate Outreach, Panasonic with guest

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The Positive Community February 2015

L–R: Talia Young, asst. VP, City National Bank with Felipe Luciano, director of Communications, City of Newark thepositivecommunity.com

Union Baptist Temple

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he Positive Community team recently visited Union Baptist Temple in Bridgeton, NJ, our southernmost Great Roll Call to Progress member church in the state (about 20 miles from the Delaware border).

On the occasion, Pastor Albert Morgan and the congregation extended a warm welcome to publisher, Adrian Council as he shared the good news of the historic 2015 Grand Jubilee calendar.

Photos: Karen Waters

Pastor Albert Morgan with Grand Jubilee calendar

Mother and child

Pastor Albert Morgan

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Adrian Council

February 2015 The Positive Community

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February 2015 The Positive Community

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WKMB Radio Celebrates Leaders

this february at dianne reeves feb 13–14 • 8pm Vocalist Dianne Reeves returns for Valentine’s Day

sherman irby’s journey through swing feb 20 • 7pm | feb 21 • 9:30pm Sherman Irby and friends explore the music of Johnny Griffin, Charlie Parker, Chet Baker, Freddie Hubbard, and more

elio villafranca’s music of the caribbean feb 20 • 9:30pm | feb 21 • 7pm Elio Villafranca, Jon Faddis, Leyla McCalla, and the Jass Syncopators tour the music of the Caribbean

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KMB Harvest Radio recently hosted its annual MLK community service awards at the Plainfield, NJ YWCA. This year’s honorees are L–R: Min. Dale Cissone, gospel artist and youth minister at Emanuel BC, Newark, NJ; Darlene McWilliams, community activist, realtor; Harvest Communications President/CEO Rev. Gary Kirkwood; Bishop William T. Cahoon, jurisdictional prelate, COGIC New Garden State Jurisdiction; and Bob Hunt, operations manager, WKMB Radio.

Harvest Radio WKMB is the only African American owned and programed radio station in the NY/NJ metropolitan area.

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February 2015 The Positive Community

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Black History Month OPEN IN HARLEM! at Berean BC Photos: Gail Davis Bradford Washington DMD, MS Licensed Orthodontist Harvard School of Dental Medicine

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irst Sunday at Brooklyn’s historic Berean Baptist Church got off to a wonderful start as the congregation, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Dr. Arlee Griffin, Jr. welcomed acclaimed theologian James H. Cone. The author of the bestseller, The Cross and the Lynching Tree was guest preacher. After service, dozens lined up to greet the author and receive an autographed copy of his book.

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Figuring Out Terrorism

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hat struck me most about the photographs of the alleged perpetrators of the January 2015 terrorist attacks in Paris, France was that the three male suspects could easily have passed for ordinary black men in most African-American communities.

Cherif Kouach and Said Kouach, who killed staffers in the offices of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdoin, were light complexioned but exhibited more obvious melanin and African facial features than typical white folks. Amedy Coulibaly, who killed four hostages in a Paris kosher grocery store, was dark-skinned.

On a “kneejerk” basis, my mind expects accused Islamic terrorists to look more like Osama bin Laden; that is, like white guys. Intellectually, I know that Muslims come in all human complexions and racial characteristics. Most Muslims whom I know personally are AfricanAmericans or black African immigrants. And they are not terrorists.

I wonder if the Paris attackers’ turning to violence had, subconsciously or consciously, more to do with racial oppression than with defending Islam.

Many of France’s former African colonies, such as Mali, have populations that are predominantly black and Muslim. Even North Africa, much of which was colonized

by France, has large black demographic components.

Many residents of colonized and formerly colonized countries, including former French colonies, have migrated to the former “mother countries,” including France. I seem to recall indications that at least some such migrants experience marginalization or even levels of persecution in those European countries after relocating to them. Could some of these migrants, especially young men, be attracted to Islamic terrorism as a reaction to racial persecution in European countries?

On another note, I think we should intentionally avoid automatically linking “Muslim” and “terrorist” in our minds and speech. I do not believe the guys beheading humans on social media or attacking offices and retail centers are random samplings of the international Muslim community. My study and analysis so far suggests that the terrorists are a unique subset.

Moreover, I am not even convinced that terrorism is consistent with real Muslim theology. Muslims believe in the same basic moral rules that Christians and Jews thepositivecommunity.com

believe in, stemming from much of the same historical sources. Jews believe in the Old Testament. Christians believe in the Old Testament and the New Testament but prioritize the New Testament. Muslims believe in the Bible and the Koran, but prioritize the Koran. The Koran espouses favored treatment for “People of the Book” (Jews and Christians).

"Most Muslims do not become Muslims to indulge in murder and mayhem,” CNN News recently quoted Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as saying. “It's not what Islam is about,” he added. “We try to live lives of peace and harmony within ourselves and with our neighbors.” He further added that poverty or lack of educational opportunities contribute to persons committing terrorist acts.

Separately, in a column for Time magazine’s website, Jabbar wrote that he hopes that someday “these terrorists praising the Prophet (Mohammed) or Allah's name as they debase their actual teachings [will be] instantly recognized as thugs disguising themselves as Muslims.”

Jabbar, the retired professional basketball superstar who is also a best-selling author, was born Lew Alcindor, raised and educated Catholic. He converted to Islam during his college years.

Personally, I know more Muslims who have become Christians than vice versa. This does not surprise me.

Since studious Muslims and Jews already know some Bible, their walk to Christ is likely shorter than that of people with less Bible knowledge.

I am writing a thought piece here. I have much more studying and analysis to do before coming up with absolute answers. I plan to continue both as time allows.

Perhaps some of you will also.

February 2015 The Positive Community

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com February 2015

™

Vol. 15, No. 2

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

BY R.L. WITTER

Lift Every Voice; March on til Victory is Won

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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 Hubert Williams 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.

66 The Positive Community

The Last Word

February 2015

t’s February, and as the temperature drops low and the snowflakes fall, people gather throughout the month for various occasions. Most think of November and December as “the holidays,” but in actuality, February gives them both a run for their money, boasting Super Bowl Sunday, Mardi Gras, St. Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day, and of course, Black History Month.

One of the things I look forward to each February is the national anthem before the opening kickoff of the Super Bowl. There’s always a big name performer to sing or play it; over the years we’ve heard Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, and Vanessa Williams sing it, just to name a few.

And who could forget Whitney Houston’s stirring rendition, which has been called the best performance—EVER. Since the 1800s, Americans have been singing it. We all know the tune and the words; we’ve grown up hearing them at every sporting event, and even in school. It’s as American as baseball and apple pie and has basically been forced upon us. Its lyrics sing of broad stripes and white stars, bombs bursting in air, and the land of the free and the home of the brave . . .

But I prefer that other national anthem, the one sung mostly by people with brown skin and resounding voices that swell with pride as they sing the words written by James Weldon Johnson, a black man and an educator. “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” is our song. It tells our truth and speaks of our dark past in America, the hope for liberty, and the fact that our journey has yet to end; our victory is yet to be won.

As we mark Black History Month and attend various events, I look for-

ward to hearing the Black National Anthem. Sure, Luther, Diana, Whitney and others have torn up “The Star Spangled Banner” and made it their own, but “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” is and has always been our own. As we feel the music and sing the lyrics, we’re reminded of not only our struggle, but the strength of our faith as well. And just as everything old is new again, the words still resonate and apply to our current struggles. As we strive to remind the world that Black Lives Matter, “Let us march on till victory is won.”

Visit www.thepositivecommunity.com every day in February for various versions of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.”

Lift every voice and sing, Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the list’ning skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand, True to our God, True to our native land. thepositivecommunity.com

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February 2015 The Positive Community

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