November 2015

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

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November 2015 thepositivecommunity.com

Nassan’s Place Helping Families Cope with Autism

Remembering Billy Strayhorn

FOCUS ON HEALTH Black Cardiologists Honored

Anthony Anderson Black-ish Star Tells Young People How He Got Smart About Credit

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CUNY MONTH

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Join us for admissions, events and exciting activities on CUNY’s 24 campuses throughout New York City.

— James B. Milliken Chancellor

• GRADUATE FAIR • ART THEATER & FILM • MUSIC • JAZZ & DANCE • OPEN HOUSES • MUSIC • PANELS • PAINTING & ART EXHIBITS • MORE • INFORMATION SESSIONS • LECTURES & SEMINARS • SPORTS EVENTS • BOOK TALKS • APPLY NOW •the THEATER & FILM • PANELS • DISTINGUISHED WRITER SERIES • VISITING ARTISTS EVENTS • WORKSHOPS • DISTINGUISHED WRITER SERIES • ALUMNI • ROOSEVELT HOUSE TOURS • PERFORMING ARTS • WORKSHOPS • FAIRS • MUSIC • JAZZ & DANCE • ADMISSIONS INFO SESSIONS • GRADUATE FAIR • THEATER & FILM • OPEN HOUSES • MUSIC • PANELS • PAINTING & ART EXHIBITS • MORE • INFORMATION SESSIONS • LECTURES & SEMINARS • SPORTS EVENTS • BOOK TALKS • APPLY NOW • THEATER & FILM • PANELS • DISTINGUISHED WRITER SERIES • EVENTS • WORKSHOPS • DISTINGUISHED WRITER SERIES • WORKSHOPS • GRADUATE FAIR • ART THEATER & FILM • MUSIC JAZZ & DANCE • OPEN HOUSES • MUSIC • PANELS • PAINTING & ART EXHIBITS • MORE • INFORMATION SESSIONS • LECTURES & SEMINARS • SPORTS EVENTS • BOOK TALKS • APPLY • GRADUATE FAIR

Experience CUNY Value

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Sign up for a free campus tour at cuny.edu/visit2015

November 2015

CONTENTS 36

SECTIONS HEALTH ..................................12 EDUCATION ............................36 MONEY ..................................46 CULTURE ................................52

Features Not Your Grandma’s Mammogram ..................12 Nassan’s Place Helps Deal with Autism ..........18 Spirit of the Heart ..........................................22 Men’s Health Night ........................................28

ON THE COVER:

ACTOR ANTHONY ANDERSON SPEAKS AT YOUTH FINANCIAL WORKSHOP

&

also inside

Faith to Fight Diabetes .....................................33 Youth Financial Literacy Workshop...................38 Public Forum on Economic Disparities ...........46 McDonald’s Serves Breakfast All Day ..............48 Entrepreneurial Power Breakfast .....................49 dfree Conference ............................................50

Publisher’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Celebrating Billy Strayhorn’s Centennial Birthday! ....52 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Municipal Building Named for David Dinkins .....54 Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Gospel Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Roberto Clemente Gala ..................................55 MAAFA Suite ...................................................56 Jews, Jazz & African Americans .........................58

The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 WISOMM Celebrates 20 Years ...........................60 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Good food Inside the Lion’s Den .......................65 4

The Positive Community November 2015

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OPEN ENROLLMENT IS HERE CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEALTH CARE PLAN CAN BE CONFUSING. THAT’S WHY WE’RE HERE TO HELP. Give us a call for a FREE one-on-one information and advice from one of our health care insurance experts at 1-866-829-6739. Or, visit us online at EmblemHealthReform.com At EmblemHealth, we want to help you find the right insurance option for you and your family. We can help you compare plans, calculate costs, and make a choice that best fits your needs, as well as your budget.

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smallsteps.emblemhealth.com | emblemhealth #SmallStepsNYC 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. 2015, All Rights Reserved. Any information provided at Neighborhood Care is purely for general educational purposes about your wellness. EmblemHealth does not diagnose or treat conditions. Any treatment decisions are between you and your licensed healthcare professional.

Pictured above: Craigh Bryan, MD, Internal Medicine; Asit Shah, MD, Orthopedic Surgery; Bryan Ho, MD, Otolaryngology; Robert Simon, MD, Urology; Frank Moore, MD, Neurosurgery.

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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

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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. Paul Baptist, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, 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. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr Pastor Agape Christian Ministries Worship Ctr. Rev. Craig R. Jackson. Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor

First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor

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

Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry

First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev Patrick Henry Young, Pastor

Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor

First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor

Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor

First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor

Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor

First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor

Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor

First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor

Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director

Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor

Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor

General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President

Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor

Good Neighbor Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor

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

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

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

New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor

Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Dr. Ben Monroe St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor 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 Marion P. Thomas Charter School 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

ADRIAN A. COUNCIL, SR PUBLISHER’S DESK

“This Publisher’s message is dedicated to the loving ministry and memory of Pastor Ronald B. Christian “Reverend Ron”, 1964–2015; and to the future of the mighty, Christian Love Baptist Church congregation, Irvington, NJ. Reverend Ron, a dear friend to The Positive Community family; God’s good and selfless servant; truly, truly, “a man of the people!”

The Positive Community’s

GREAT COUNTDOWN TO FREEDOM—2016 Faith, Freedom and Cultural Revival—Positive Music Matters!

Editor’s Note: Below is a preview of next year’s calendar. Ideally, no home, school or congregation should be without one! Order yours, today.

Share this inspiring cultural message of unity, comfort and hope among friends and neighbors, especially the young people. The future belongs to the great forward thinkers and community builders of tomorrow—the children!

elcome to 2016! Welcome to The Positive Community! We present to you The Positive Community’s 2016 Commemorative Calendar. The calendar theme: Faith, Freedom and Cultural Revival— Positive Music Matters! The beautiful images of life and music in this calendar are from the Bob Gore spiritual photography collection joined by popular, Newark, NJ based music photographer, Risasi Daisis.

The monthly calendar quotes are inspired from a collection of The Publisher’s Desk editorials written over the past year. Special thanks to Newark pastor Rev. Dr. Pauline E. Ballard whose quotes from a spiritual, biblical perspective affirm our course. Her unique insight is shared in a guest editorial in the 2015 Harlem Summer Issue of The Positive Community magazine, entitled, I Do Believe: Positive Music Matters. This cultural document also includes quotes from Wynton Marsalis and Duke Ellington. The calendar is all about the music, positive music—now more than ever, in spirit and in truth—Positive Music Matters!

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Faith-Testing Hope This year, 2016, begins a new chapter of change in our American freedom journey. We are now in the final year of President Barack Obama’s 2nd term in the nation’s highest office. One hundred and fifty years ago, in 1866, Reconstruction came to the South in the wake of the Civil

War (to end slavery 1861-1865), a war that cost almost 700,000 American lives. Reconstruction was a violent, bitter period for the African American freedman. But, it was also a time of great faith-testing hope… “We Got By!” Four hundred years ago, our ancestors were forcibly bought to these shores in shackles and chains. For 250 years the people toiled and suffered all manner of physical abuse; enduring much torment in the mind and the soul— a broken people. We survived Reconstruction and the humiliation of Jim Crow segregation and discrimination right through the March on Washington in 1963 (the Second Emancipation); to the triumph of the election of America’ first black president in 2008 and again in 2012.

And today, with much hope, we look forward to a future of health, prosperity and happiness—ideals of peace and goodwill.

The Soul of a Nation Unlike any other ethnic group or race in this country, we the people, descendants of The Great Emancipation have been blessed with a very special gift; a great cultural treasure, a mighty spiritual asset—a goodly heritage—a great music legacy!

From the Slave Work Songs, Folk Tales and the Negro Spirituals; from the Blues, Jazz music, to Gospel and Soul Music; from R&B to Hip-Hop, all are the precious gifts and talents of the liberated sons and daughters of the Most High God—The Great Emancipator. Indeed, a forlorn, forsaken people spoke freedom to the soul of this nation and healed the world through the power of music, song and the spoken word—a righteous sound—Positive Music Matters!

Where Do We Go from Here?

Today, as a people, we stand at the crossroads of a great reckoning. Our generation must account for the gifts

In Spirit and in Truth: Positive Music Matters® 8 The 40 ThePositive PositiveCommunity CommunityNovember November2015 2015

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bestowed upon us—our divine inheritance. It is the gift of our music, the progress of our children and the integrity our culture that matters most—Positive Music Matters!

How then, in less than single generation (25 years), did we go from enjoying a renowned, world-class artist/ entertainer, a great singer and performer, named Michael Jackson, “The King of Pop,” to celebrating a rapper that goes by the name “Young Thug”; from songs of love, freedom, hope and happiness to an enslaving sound track of doom and death—vulgar, obscene and crude expressions of self-hate and anti-social attitudes, in complete bondage to fashion and debt; from inspired creativity, to shallow cleverness; from music and song to nursery rhyme cadences and music-less chants?

I believe the answers can be found in two sincere, simple and straight-forward questions: #1 Who are we; and where do we go from here? #2 Who are we praying to; and just what are we praying for?

P POSITIV VE MU USIC M MA ATTER T RS®

America’s Best A conversation about the future is a conversation about the children and the future of our children’s children! To do nothing is to go backward; and one cannot go forward

2016 C Commem morative C Calendar r

and backward at the same time. A real conversation and celebration about the inherent, soul-saving qualities of Black Music is a step forward! Matthew 25:14-30, Parable of the Talents, illustrates the point.

After all, the fate and destiny of the people—God’s people—is ultimately in the hands of the people! Only through rediscovery of the African American group personality—our music, art, and culture, can we revive “the smoldering embers of positive values and traditions.”To quote acclaimed theologian and historian James H. Cone, “Music has and continues to be the most significant creative art expressions of African Americans” Never forget this truth: politics fades with fashion; culture endures—generation, to generation, to generation. It carries the faith-hope potential to transcend experiences of many, many lifetimes.

Each of us is called into loving service—to be about the business of our future. It is therefore the people’s God-given responsibility, moral obligation and patriotic duty to protect promote and preserve our very best— America’s best! A cultural renaissance—a great awakening—is underway! We must now decide for ourselves; by ourselves—on our own terms—what really matters!…

Positive Music Matters!

Ideally no home, school, business or congregation should be without this calendar! Order yours, today.

Share an inspiring cultural message of unity, comfort and hope among friends and neighbors, especially the young people.

Pho os by Ra Phot Rasisi Daisis and B Bob Gore

thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

The calendar makes a great Christmas gift or Kwanzaa present. Order two, one for reflection and conversation; the other as decorative art.

November 2015 Positive Community November 2015 TheThe Positive Community 419

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.

Retirement is Not an Option he Rev. Dr. Ben E. Mays said, “You only have a minute.”And then the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s mentor and late president of Morehouse College would continue indicating, “there are 60 seconds in it...”And so on and so forth.

Twenty years of serving God. That’s what our church recently celebrated. It’s not a large church by today’s standards. We have no big names attending weekend or weekday services. We don’t get heavy duty grants or abundant in-kind gifts. We simply serve God and let Jesus Himself make up the shortage. He has countless times in countless ways.

Oh! The big name is Jesus. New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno joined us in celebrating this milestone and many wonder how or why the Lt. Governor would come to a church that is not on the proverbial must-go-map. It happened like this. I was attending a political event and was introduced to Guadagno. She said to the person, "And why haven’t we visited her church?" So, I asked her to come. End of story.

It was a great day. No, not simply because she was there, though I’m grateful for her appearance and the appearance of the Rev. Dr. William Davidson, senior pastor of the Roger Williams Baptist Church in Passaic, for coming as well with his congregants in the afternoon. We had brunch in the morning with the Lt. Governor; and dinner with Rev. Davidson.

The day was beautiful. We were in our church yard. The kids were pouncing on the bouncy house and swaying on the swings. Passaic County Freeholder candidates Joe Cupoli, Joanie Walsh, and Sami Merhi supplied a cotton candy machine, a hot dog cart and a popcorn maker.

It was more like a festive carnival...on purpose. My longtime friend Freeholder Bruce James came and there was a mixture of Republicans and Democrats alike because this wasn’t about partisan politics. This was about the God of heaven and earth enabling us to remain relevant and fruitful without tangible resources oftentimes or widely opened doors.

We are grateful. Some have died and went, yes, to heaven.

The tenet of our faith says such a place exists. Others have come without having the benefit of previously being involved

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10 The Positive Community

November 2015

RETIREMENT

in organized religion and discover that you can have fun and serve God all at the same time.

It is time to reflect and move more into airing live stream services because church as we know it is fast-becoming a thing of the past. I don’t know whether that’s good or bad. I just know what is.

We’ve adopted an area school; we will become more conscious of missions work and will continue to embrace the Great Commission.

I, along with the Rev. Carl Phips, his wife, Charlette, and the Rev. Beverly Sherrod, all from Bishop Roderick Caesar’s congregation, are scheduled to begin training inmates in the Brooklyn Federal Prison to embrace life skills that don’t put them behind bars ‘cause that’s church work, too.

So we’ve celebrated 20 years, but retirement is not an option. Why? Because the harvest is plenteous but the laborers are few.

And, Lord, for this I am thankful. thepositivecommunity.com

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NY State of Health Open Enrollment In addition to Medicare products, Fidelis Care offers a range of quality, affordable health insurance products for individuals and families, and now is the perfect time to get covered. People looking for “metal-level” coverage through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace can enroll through February 1, 2016. Enrollment takes place year round for Child Health Plus and Medicaid Managed Care. A new, low-cost Essential Plan for those who qualify because of income will also have year-round enrollment.

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The Positive Community November 2015

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Sickle Cell Disease Community

Lunch and Learn Forum From Medicine to Ministry

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• A faith-based health ministry or auxiliary leader?

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Join the conversation to learn more about new interventions Hear from Health Care Professionals, Patients, and Caregivers Motivational Message from Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson

Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson

Senior Pastor First Baptist Church of South Orange

Saturday, December 5, 2015 • 12noon – 2:00pm Metropolitan Baptist Church 149 Springfield Avenue

Newark, NJ

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Nassan’s Place makes a difference in the world of Autism Opening a world of new insights to children and their families

BY G.R. MATTOX

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utism is devastating, debilitating and, most of all, isolating for the individual sufferers and their families. The exact causes of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are unknown, although it is thought that several complex genetic and environmental factors are involved, and it is generally accepted that abnormalities in brain structure or function are major factors. It is called a spectrum because of the wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment or disability that children with ASD can have. There is no cure.

The state of New Jersey, which has the second highest rate of autism in the country, has been given about $35 million in grants to fund autism research projects because of its success with early detection. Nationally, the prevalence rates are 1 in 68 children (1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls; but in the Garden State, rates for all children have shot up to one in 44, and for boys, it’s one in 29. Like many parents who have children with autism, East Orange resident Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr was at the end of her rope. Not only was she heartbroken when she learned that her youngest child suffered from the condition, she was frustrated by the lack of services available for her son in her community. She and her family felt the isolation that many others do when they have a child with autism. After years of running into closed doors in the quest to find accessible

community, because I do believe if our community is educated about what autism is, we can stomp out the ignorance and gain acceptance.”

The organization receives no state or federal funding, but manages to offer a range of education and social programs to autistic children and their families at either low or no-cost. So far this year, Nassan’s Place has offered sensory friendly movie days and sensory friendly skate days, a WNBA match up during Autism Awareness Game Night at Madison Square Garden in August, and an evening at a New Jersey Devil’s game in October.

They had a sensory friendly photography session in August, and recently held their second masquerade celebration for children with autism and their families.

Two events had a big assist from the East Orange Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department. One was a six-week Saturday Enrichment Program. Parents dropped their children off for four hours at a recreation department facility to participate in educational and sports activities and the parents had a little relaxation and de-stress time. A series of swimming lessons at a local indoor pool had as one of the instructors a 17-year old Montclair State University freshman, Charles Cob-

"Autism is devastating, debilitating and, most of all, isolating for the individual sufferers and their families. The exact causes of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are unknown..." and affordable educational and recreational programs, Wright-Arbubakrr decided to start her own non-profit organization for children with ASD and their families.

In its three years of operation, Nassan’s Place, the organization she created and named for her son, who is now 11, has enhanced the lives of families that struggle with ASD by eliminating the feelings of isolation and letting them know they are not alone. “My goal through Nassan’s Place is to make families feel their children do belong and we do have a place,” she explained.

“But one of the biggest things for me is to educate our

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The Positive Community November 2015

bertt, who recently competed in the YMCA Long Course Nationals in Indianapolis. He was diagnosed with ASD at the age of three, but 14 years of swimming lessons and practice have decreased his repetitive motions and given him a sense of calm and focus. “We reached out to him and he did not hesitate,” Wright-Arbubakrr reported.

The monthly support groups for families, backpack and school supply giveaways, and other social events require support and funding, and Wright-Arbubakrr, who works with the East Orange School District, has had Continued on next page thepositivecommunity.com

NASSAN"S PLACE

Continued from previous page some extraordinary assistance. In addition to corporate contributions and support from Costco, Panasonic, Applebee’s, the Orange NJ Elks Lodge —where they hold most of their events— and the Montclair Center for Autism & Early Childhood Mental Health, individuals have continued to be encouraging, including Essex County Freeholder Britnee Timberlake, New Jersey Assemblyman Thomas Giblin, and Newark Council President Mildred Crump, East Orange Councilman Theodore R. Green, who has been on the board of directors from the beginning, said he didn’t really know a lot about autism, only that it was an illness. “But once I learned more about the history and background of what autism is, I was on-board 100 percent. And being an uncle with a nephew who suffers from cerebral palsy, any time there is any type of organization that is helping or trying to find ways and funds to help young people and adults in our community, then I’m for it.”

Next up for Nassan’s Place is the annual holiday celebration, and Wright-Arbubakrr has just received the go-ahead to host a free screening of the documentary Best Kept Secret, which focuses on children at the John F. Kennedy School in Newark who have autism, at Newark’s CityPlex 12.

Nadine, with the support of her husband, Hassan, her children, and various advocates, continues to make a difference for families like hers. She hopes to tap into the NBA, where her stepson, Hassan Whiteside is one of the standout players for the Miami Heat. Most of all, she wants Nassan’s Place to have a space of its own where families can find a wide range of services.

Her efforts at Nassan’s Place have produced much in a short time, but there is more to do. “Most people don’t understand that autism affects everyone. It doesn’t discriminate,” Wright-Arbubakrr said. “Unfortunately, a lot of families in urban inner-city communities can’t afford much-needed programs, so Nassan’s Place is that place that’s now making a difference in their lives.”

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Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be difficult, since there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorders. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis.

What red flags in young children may indicate the presence of an ASD?

No babbling by 12 months No pointing or gesturing by 12 months No single words by 16 months No 2-word phrases by 24 months Loss of previously acquired skills, especially language In addition to the concerns noted above, presence or absence of the following behaviors may be reason for a referral:

Bradford Washington DMD, MS

For more information about Nassan’s Place or to learn more about autism awareness, call 973-424-7781, send an email to nassansplace@comcast.net or visit www.nassansplace.org. Nassan’s Place and Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr also have pages on Facebook.

Lack of joint attention (child does not draw other’s attention to objects in the environment) Child does not respond to his/her name Lack of pretend, imitative and functional play appropriate to developmental age Failure to develop peer relationships appropriate to developmental age Child does not imitate others’ behaviors Child is rigid in routines or has very difficult transitions Child engages in repetitive or stereotypical behavior Child has unusual responses to sensory stimuli November 2015 The Positive Community

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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.

The Gift of Good Health ood health is a gift from God that should not be taken for granted, but maintained by the person to whom it has been given. I remember when I was much younger (perhaps in my early teens), my relatives would bestow some of the greatest gifts upon me during special occasions such as holidays and/or birthdays.

One gift in particular really stands out in my mind.

Someone gifted me an American Express card. I was so happy. I received the gift and utilized the card with great enthusiasm and frequency. Unfortunately, my zeal for spending was far greater than my weekly income. And before long, the card was taken away. I was blessed with an awesome gift! But, regrettably, I did not properly care for or maintain the gift I was given.

Many endowed with good health experience a similar scenario. These individuals take the gift for granted and, similar to my scenario, suffer the loss of what was given.

Most people believe they are doing a fair job at maintaining good health. Aside from the occasional detour, we believe we do pretty well (or at least OK) with our eating and some form of physical activity.

But according to a recent WebMD study, very few adults meet the criteria for a healthy lifestyle. The study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, showed that only 3% of American adults got a perfect score on what the authors say are the four basic criteria for healthy living.

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The four criteria for a healthy lifestyle are: • Being smoke-free • Maintain a healthy weight (a BMI of 18-25), or successfully losing weight to attain a healthy weight • Eating at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily • Execising 30 minutes or more, 5 times a week Just 13.8% met three of the criteria; 34.2% met only two criteria. Women scored slightly better than men. But it does not have to be that way, Beloved. We can decide to value our health and manage the gift of good health properly.

How do we maintain and manage the gift of good health? I am so glad you asked. Here is a list of good health habits that I have compiled to help you live well by faith: 1.)

Hire a personal fitness coach or trainer to point you in the right direction as it pertains to an exer-

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November 2015

cise and nutritional program. A fitness professional can also help keep you accountable and focused upon your goals. Ideally, your trainer should be knowledgeable and/or trained in some type of care or counseling degree or certification. This advanced training allows your fitness professional to speak to emotional barriers that keep you from moving forward and living a healthy lifestyle. Go ahead and invest in you! Hire a fitness trainer today.

2.) Join a fitness challenge via Facebook or online with reputable and knowledgeable fitness professionals.

I have been working with a fitness group via Facebook called #Fit2Build, led by Pastor Byron Benton of Berean Baptist Church in Raleigh, N.C. Connect with me on Facebook at Kahlil Carmichael or The Fitness Doctor Kahlil and prepare to get fit to build.

3.) Be consistent with your exercise regimen. If you can only workout 3 days per week, stay consistent with the three days. If you can only workout two days per week stay consistent with your two days. If it is one day, you get the gist. Exercise is about consistency and intensity.

4.) Eat healthy and watch your portions. Forget the gimmicks and the diets. Eat healthy and watch your portions! Period!

5.) Be sure to do some light stretching every day when you wake up in the morning. Flexibility, a key component of health, can be obtained through daily stretching.

I want to encourage you to maintain the good health that the good Lord has given you. If you have allowed your health to decline from lack of healthy eating and regular exercise, please check with your physician to turn things around today.

If you are healthy today, thank the good Lord and commit to maintaining the gift of good health.

Peace and blessings.

If you’re interested in a free consultation or more information on FitCare, call 732-921-3746 or email thefitnessdoctor@aol.com.

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

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Don’t let diabetes and hypertension control your life.

If you suffer or are at risk for diabetes and hypertension, Saint Peter’s university Hospital can help. If you are 18 years of age or older, you can receive high quality care to better manage these chronic diseases— even if you have no insurance or not enough of it to cover long-term medical expenses.

In one convenient location at The Diabetes and Hypertension Center at Saint Peter’s Family Health Center, you can benefit from comprehensive care provided by physicians, nurses, a nutritionist and a social worker, all experienced in helping you to better manage your diabetes and hypertension.

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Spirit of the Heart Association of Black Cardiologists Annual Awards

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he Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), founded in 1974, has taken a leadership role in promoting the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease including stroke in blacks and other minorities and achieving health equity for all through the elimination of disparities in all people of color. ABC represents an international membership of 1,500 health professionals, community lay members, corporate, and institutional members dedicated to this cause.

The 6th Annual “Spirit of the

Heart” Awards Dinner on October 3, 2015 at Cipriani in Manhattan, honored individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the field of cardiology and advancement in health equity by eliminating cardiovascular disease disparities in the delivery of healthcare to the community.

Actor Lamman Rucker served as master of ceremonies. Edward Lewis, co-founder and former publisher of Essence magazine was event chair.

Guests were treated to performances

by Vocalist Avery Wilson, alum of NBC’s The Voice.

Lamman Rucker

The annual awards dinner serves as a celebration of life with proceeds supporting ABC’s “Spirit of the Heart” community outreach; providing resources and activities for heart disease prevention. —JNW

Award recipients were: Dr. Jennifer H. Mieres; nuclear cardiologist; chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer of North Shore-LIJ Health System’s Office of Community and Public Health; professor of Cardiology & Population Health - Hofstra North Shore LIJ School of Medicine (Dr. Walter M. Booker, Sr. Health Promotion Award) Dr. Gbenga Ogedegbe; professor of Population Health and Medicine; director, Division of Health and Behavior; director, Center for Healthful Behavior Change - NYU Global Institute of Public Health (Dr. Daniel D. Savage Memorial Science Award) Dr. N. Anthony Coles, chairman/CEO of Yumanity Therapeutics (ABC BioPharma Leadership Award) Novartis (ABC Spirit of the Heart Health Equity Award) Aetna Foundation (ABC Spirit of the Heart Health Promotion Award) Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (ABC Spirit of the Heart Award) Dr. Jennifer Mieres

The annual awards dinner serves as a celebration of life with proceeds supporting ABC’s “Spirit of the Heart” community outreach For information on the “Spirit of Heart” Awards and the Association of Black Cardiologists, visit www.abcardio.org

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The Positive Community November 2015

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New York’s Best Kept Secret George Goritz

We have a

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hroughout New York, thousands of Medicare-eligible people are deciding right now which Medicare option is best for them. One plan has been successfully serving New Yorkers for a decade, yet many are still learning about the community-based organization: Amida Care.

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efits and extra care for people with chronic health issues. We are well respected because of the high level of service and attention we give our members."

Amida Care members couldn't agree more.

“I tell my friends they should look into Amida Care,” said George G., an Amida Care True Life Plus member. “Rarely do you get a plan that provides so much service. My wife and I are both members of the plan and we are very happy."

“They stand on their word that they are here to help me,” says Linda H., a member of Amida Care Live Life Advantage.

Amida Care is available every day from 8 am to 8 pm from October to February at 1-888-963-7093 (TTY 711) to help you understand which plan is right for you. From March to September, their hours are 8 am to 8 pm, Monday through Friday.

health plan for you.

Not-for-profit Amida Care offers several Medicare Advantage health plans, which include many extra benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers and are available with no or low cost.

"They always live up to what they say and are like family," said Calvin K., a member of Amida Care Live Life Advantage.

Get more benefits than Original Medicare

"The extras we provide seem to be the number one reason our members and providers are so satisfied with Amida Care," said CEO Doug Wirth. "We offer extra ben-

$0The or low co-payment for primary team at Amida Care has one care doctor and hospital visits Learn more at goal: provide every member the $0 or low monthly premium www.AmidaCareNY.org. support they need to maintain or $0 or low co-pay for tests and lab services improve their health.

Over-the-counter benefit card Dental andplan vision care Amida Care (HMO) is a not-for-profit health with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Amida Care depends on contract renewal. This Acupuncture information is available for free in other languages. Please call our Personal emergency member service number at 888-963-7092 or TTY 711, 8 am to 8 pm, response system Monday-Friday (every day October to February).

Esta información se encuentra disponible en forma gratuita en transportation otros idiomas. Por favor Routine llame a nuestro número de atención a los miembros al 888-963-7092 www.AmidaCareNY.org Worldwide emergency coverage o TTY 711, los siete días de la semana de 8 am a 8 pm, de lunes avViernes (todos los dias de octubre a febrero).

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The Positive Community November 2015

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You may be able to enroll today. Call 888-963-7093 TTY 711 8 am to 8 pm, Monday - Friday (every day October to February) Amida Care (HMO) is a not-for-profit health plan with a Medicare Contract. Enrollment in Amida Care depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and /or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium.This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our member service number at 888-963-7092 or TTY 711, 8 am to 8 pm, Monday to Friday (every day October to February). Esta informaci贸n se encuentra disponible en forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Por favor llame a nuestro n煤mero de atenci贸n a los miembros al 888-963-7092 o TTY 711, de 8 a.m. a 8 p.m., de lunes a viernes (todos los d铆as de octubre a febrero).

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High Anxiety Can African American Gen Xers & Boomers Afford to Retire in NYC?

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any people think of AARP as the card that gets seniors discounts. It is that, but more than that, too. For one thing, membership is open to 50-year-olds and the AARP discount card comes with membership. AARP offers financial planning services, insurance products, travel benefits and all manner of services and information to help members live better lives.

Another is that AARP is an advocacy organization.

AARP recently released a “groundbreaking survey which takes a deep dive into the financial stress and retirement savings challenges facing the city's African American Gen Xers and Baby Boomers.”

A panel of experts discussed the economic pressures, such as housing affordability and student loan debt, which may be preventing both black Gen Xers and Boomers from saving adequately for retirement and pushing them to leave NYC in search of more affordable cities.

Solutions put forth included providing access to more options for saving through the workplace, and a look at how AARP New York's local advocacy efforts aim to empower all New Yorkers to live and work in NYC at any age.

L–R: Panelists: Ryan Mack, Mid-Atlantic president, Operation Hope; Beth Finkel, state director, AARP New York; Brittne Nelson, sr. research advisor, AARP; Nikoa Evans-Hendricks, executive director & founding member, Harlem Park to Park; Toya Beasley, host of Inspire U, Radio 103.9; Ivo Philbert, senior program advisor, The Jackie Robinson Foundation Photos: Bruce Moore

L–R: Panel Moderator Toya Beasley, host of Inspire U, Radio 103.9; AARP Volunteer Marcella Maxwell; Public Relations and Event Planner Diane V. Thompson; Jeanne Parnell, radio host, WHCR Radio; Vy Higgensen, executive director, Mama Foundation for the Arts; Rawle Andrews, regional VP, AARP.

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IS MY HOSPITAL

Donor Mother Finds Hope in Tragedy

The family of organ donor Dr. Jamila Irons-Johnson met the recipient of Jamilia’s lungs, Janice McNamara and her daughter. Jamila’s mother, Janice Campbell (Pictured 2nd from right), was deeply moved to see the woman whose life her daughter saved.

What good can come out of tragedy? Janice Campbell searched deep within herself for the answer to that question when her daughter died unexpectedly at the age of 35.

Dr. Jamila Irons-Johnson, a psychiatrist and mother of two young children, suffered a ruptured aneurysm in 2013. When there was nothing else doctors could do for her daughter, Janice and her family discussed organ donation.

“My son-in-law said, ‘Mom, she would want that. She was a giving person,’” she recalls. “I think after you get over the initial shock that nothing can be done, your child is gone, it was for me, where can I find the good?”

Janice received the strength to move on knowing her daughter had helped so many others.

She decided to get involved with NJ Sharing Network, the organization that facilitated the donation and guided her and her family through the process. She is a new member of NJ Sharing Network’s Donor Family Council, a group of donor families that provides counsel to NJ Sharing Network on a variety of topics.

The organization also helped connect Janice with the recipient of her daughter’s lungs.

Coincidentally also named Janice (but pronounced differently), Janice McNamara was close to losing her life waiting for a lung transplant when the call came that there was a match.

“Because of her failing health, one of the things [Janice McNamara] said she would probably never be able to see is her daughter graduate high school and start college,” Campbell says. “Because of Jamila’s gifts, she was able to see all of that.”

Campbell has also found support through her church, the 8,000-member-strong Christ Jamila was able to save six lives, donating both Church of Montclair and Rockaway. She hopes of her kidneys, her heart, liver and pancreas, as to help her congregation observe National well as her lungs.

Donor Sabbath, a time set aside each

The Power

“You don’t have to wait for the last minute to decide what you want and how you want it,” Campbell says. “Preparing, planning and having the conversation about organ and tissue donation is how you make it easier for your family to know what you want.”

For now, what Campbell wants most is to spread the word about organ and tissue donation so that more people are aware of the power they have to give the gift of life as her daughter did.

“It’s awesome that out of my sorrow and out of pain that somebody else can have some happiness and some future,” Campbell says.

Observed annually in November, National Donor Sabbath provides a time for faith communities to educate their congregants and spread awareness.

Most religions view donation as an act of compassion and generosity.

Register as an organ and tissue donor today at www.NJSharingNetwork.org and share your decision with family and friends!

One organ donor has the power to save up to eight lives.

One tissue donor can restore the health to over 50 others.

She already has experience discussing donation with her church. During “Preparing for Your Forever After,” a biennial workshop where funeral directors, financial planners and others are invited to share their expertise with members, she has discussed the importance of expressing your wishes when it comes to end-of-life matters.

Celebrate National Donor Sabbath!

of ONE

Dr. Jamila Irons-Johnson

November for communities of faith to discuss and raise awareness for organ and tissue donation.

For more information and resources for National Donor Sabbath and how you can spread the word on organ and tissue donation visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org/DonorSabbath

or email info@njsharingnetwork.org.

Be the Power of ONE.

thepositivecommunity.com

November 2015 The Positive Community

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Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s Men’s Health Night

BY PATRICIA MITRANO

George Martin

And Monday Night Football!

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sing a sports theme to encourage men to manage their health, over 100 men participated in this tailgate party and free preventive health event sponsored by Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC). Guest speaker George Martin, a legendary defensive end who played for the N.Y. Giants from 1975 to 1988, was team captain in January 1987 during Giant’s Super Bowl XXI victory over the Denver Broncos.

Mr. Martin’s presence at the event as well as the health screenings, physician presentations, and patient testimonials armed men with practical tools for improving the quality of their lives. NBIMC physicians Domenico Savatta, MD, FACS, chief of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Adult Urologic Surgery; Trevor Atherley, MD,

medical director, Telemetry Units and EKG; F. Dein Rice, MD, division of Internal Medicine, Beth Prime Care; and Janette McDermott, MD, breast surgeon, Center for Breast Health & Disease Management spoke and fielded audience questions. After the health portion of the event, attendees watched the NY Giants game in the comforts of a lounge at The Maplewood Country Club, which is located at 28 Baker Street in Maplewood.

To sign up to receive information about future men’s health events or free screenings offered by Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey go to: http://www.barnabashealth.org/Newark-Beth-Israel-MedicalCenter/News/Sign-up-for-E-News.aspx

George Martin with NBIMC heart transplant volunteer and NY Giants fan, Steve Sims.

L–R: F. Dein Rice, MD, George Martin, Ray Murphy, John A. Brennan, MD, MPH, president/ CEO, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey and EVP, Barnabas Health; Trevor Atherley, MD; Darrell K. Terry, Sr., MHA, MPH, FACHE, COO, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.

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The Positive Community November 2015

George Martin and Darrell K. Terry, Sr. thepositivecommunity.com

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A Story Worth Telling

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s a detective in the Essex County Prosecutor’s office, Roberta Harper relies on clues, and a bit of intuition, to solve crimes. But as a fit, healthy young woman, she didn’t have even a hint that she could or would have a stroke.

Harper’s story has a happy ending, thanks to the quick action of those around her and the expertise of the stroke team at University Hospital. She hopes to raise awareness be recounting her experience here.

It was a November day in 2012 when Harper woke up with a bad headache. She attributed it to the stress she had been under preparing for her daughter’s upcoming Sweet 16 party. She decided to go to work anyway. When she arrived, she was pleasantly surprised to see Harper in the emergency room. He py. She was able to hold the Sweet the security guard, who usually pa- determined that she had had a life- 16 party she so lovingly planned. trols the other side of the building. threatening stroke in her brain stem, “We had a quite a bit to celebrate On her way up the stairs, she began the area that connects the brain to that day,” she recalls. to feel dizzy. “It was like I just got off the spinal cord. It controls the body’s a roller coaster,” she recalls. “Then it heart rate, respiration and blood Harper credits several people sounded like a siren was going off in pressure and funnels the constant with her recovery. “It was a miracle my head. Soon I felt really hot, and flow of messages between the brain that the guard and the nurse both then my hearing totally shut down.” and the body. It is vital to survival. happened to be there that day,” Harper told the guard she was ill, she says. “I may have fallen down and he rushed to steady her. ANNOUNCING He also Dr. Gandhi CERTIFICATION, immediately got to the stairs whenDESIGNATION I got dizzy,RECOGNIZING or I ADVANCED A PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL O summoned the nurse from her office work, performing what is known as may not gotten the help I needFOCUS ON COMPLEX STROKE CARE AND PREVENTION. one floor above. As luck would have intra-arterial thrombolysis and MD, edPhD; as Stephen quickly as MD; I did.”

She adds Introducing ouran Outstanding Stroke Team: (l-r) Sudhir Aggarwal, Kamin, Charles J. Prestigiacomo, MD it, the nurse had just returned to her mechanical thrombectomy.

He inthat getting the proper treatment Andrea Hidalgo, MD; I. Paul Singh, MD; Chirag D. Gandhi, MD; and Molly Jacob, APN-C office. She had gone to a meeting in serted a small catheter into Harp- within an hour after the onset of This team of experts at the New Jersey Comprehensive Stroke Center offers the full spectrum of care available for those in need o another building but returned to get stroke er’s femoral anddesignates guidedUniversity it to symptoms givesin all a phases person the treatment. best post-acute care.

Advancedartery certification Hospital’s leadership of stroke We are something she had forgotten. aboutShe caring forthe our stroke patients dedicated to lives. chance of a full recovery. Most of blood clot,and breaking it saving up and looked Harper over and sawKnow several removing it. The next morn- all, she is grateful to Dr. Gandhi the signssafely of stroke. one sidewas of thesitting face droop? of the telltale symptoms of aF.stroke.FACE. ingDoes Harper up in bed, and the stroke team at University ARM. Does one arm drift downward?

She immediately called 911.A. chatting with her mother.

S. SPEECH. Is speech slurred or strange? Her brain Hospital. “I believe there are anNeurosurgeon Chirag Gandhi, had damage at all. gels on earth,” she says. “And Dr. T. MD,TIME. Anysustained of these signs? no Call 9-1-1 immediately. of University Hospital’s Comprehen- One week later she was released Gandhi is one of them. He was put Know where to go at the very first sign. Where you go is just as important as how quickly you get there. sive Stroke Center, was waiting for and did not need any type of thera- here to save people’s lives.”

THE NEW JERSEY COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CE AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

THE NEW JERSEY COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CENTER AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

At the first sign of stroke, call 9-1-1.

To make an appointment at University Hospital’s Comprehensive Stroke Center for preventive or post-acute stroke care, call 973-972-3488.

1 5 0 B E R G E

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90 Bergen St., Suite 8100, Newark, NJ 07101, 973-972-3488, www. uhnj.org/stroke

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THE NEW JERSEY COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CENTER AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL ANNOUNCING ADVANCED CERTIFICATION, A PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL DESIGNATION RECOGNIZING OUR CENTER’S FOCUS ON COMPLEX STROKE CARE AND PREVENTION. Introducing our Outstanding Stroke Team: (l-r) Sudhir Aggarwal, MD, PhD; Stephen Kamin, MD; Charles J. Prestigiacomo, MD; Andrea Hidalgo, MD; I. Paul Singh, MD; Chirag D. Gandhi, MD; and Molly Jacob, APN-C This team of experts at the New Jersey Comprehensive Stroke Center offers the full spectrum of care available for those in need of prevention or post-acute stroke care. Advanced certification designates University Hospital’s leadership in all phases of stroke treatment. We are passionate about caring for our stroke patients and dedicated to saving lives.

Know the signs of stroke.

F. FACE. Does one side of the face droop?

A. ARM. Does one arm drift downward?

S. SPEECH. Is speech slurred or strange?

T. TIME. Any of these signs? Call 9-1-1 immediately.

Know where to go at the very first sign. Where you go is just as important as how quickly you get there.

THE NEW JERSEY COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CENTER AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 90 Bergen St., Suite 8100, Newark, NJ 07101, 973-972-3488, www. uhnj.org/stroke

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MetroPlus the Only NYC Health Plan to Lower Premiums for 2016 New “Essential Plan” makes coverage even more affordable for thousands of New Yorkers New York, NY (November 2, 2015) — NY State of Health (NYSOH), The Official Health Plan Marketplace, announced the insurers that will be offering the new Essential Health Plan to eligible, lower income New Yorkers. The Essential Plan has no annual deductible and offers the same essential benefits as other plans, including free preventive care. Consumers pay just $20 or $0 a month per adult, depending on their income.

To make sure New Yorkers are aware of this low cost option, MetroPlus will be running ads in the subway, on city buses, at street level, on radio, online, in social media as well as a new broad-based television campaign.

“Despite substantial enrollment in health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, it is estimated that over 400,000 New Yorkers remain uninsured and providing these New Yorkers with insurance is critical to the goal of ensuring health equality,” says MetroPlus Chief Operating Officer Seth Diamond.

Open enrollment for coverage this year through the NYSOH Marketplace closes January 31. There are special circumstances, such as job loss, that allow people to enroll past that deadline. To learn more, contact MetroPlus at 1-855-809-4073 or visit metroplus.org and nystateofheath.org. ■

MetroPlus Health Plan, a subsidiary of NYC Health + Hospitals, is one of the health insurers offering the new lowest-cost product. And MetroPlus is the only NYC health plan to actually lower its premiums for existing Marketplace products from the previous year.

“The enhanced outreach and advertising are required to reach those who, despite substantial publicity over a twoyear period, have not yet enrolled in health insurance.”

Diamond says. “The implementation of the Essential Plan during 2015 Open Enrollment, coupled with reduced MetroPlus prices, bring new opportunities for low income New Yorkers to receive low price, quality health insurance for 2016,” he added.

Already the plan of choice for nearly half a million New Yorkers, MetroPlus offers access to a network of over 12,000 primary care physicians and specialist sites across the city and has the most affordable options in three of the four metal levels available on the Marketplace. The plan covers all essential health benefits, including emergency services, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance use services, prescription drugs, and preventive and wellness services. It also offers a vision and dental rider for an additional low cost; the rate varies per level. Nearly 67 percent of new members shopping on the Marketplace chose this added level of care.

About MetroPlus

F

or 30 years, MetroPlus Health Plan has built a reputation for providing affordable, quality care to residents of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan and Queens. A health services plan certified under Section 4403-a of the New York Public Health Law, MetroPlus is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NYC Health + Hospitals (HHC), the largest municipal healthcare organization in the country. MetroPlus provides managed care to nearly half a million eligible New Yorkers. MetroPlus has consistently been one of the top-ranked health plans in New York City for almost 10 years. ■

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thepositivecommunity.com

Faith to Fight Diabetes ADA Resources Give Congregations Power Over Diabetes

Standing, L-R: Terra Renee, president/CEO, African American Women in Cinema; AAI Committee Member Linda Thompson, Health Ministry at Abyssinian Baptist Church; Simone LeConte-Parker, Berean Community and Family Life Center (Berean Baptist Church); Rev. Reynard Smith, New York State Chaplain Task Force; and Min. Kim-Maria Osorio, Bronx Borough supervisor for the New York State Chaplain Task Force. SEATED: AAI Committee Chair Maudene Nelson, RD, CDE; Daphney Quinones; and AAI Committee Co-Chair Sarah Delany, RN

W

hen a person does not make enough insulin and/or the insulin that the body makes does not work the way that it should, the result is a disease called diabetes. The body may also keep making glucose even though it does not need it. This causes the blood glucose level to become too high.

Diabetes is a significant concern in the African-American community, as 13% of all African-American adults have been diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death in the African-American community, and African Americans are also more likely than other ethnic groups to experience serious long-term health problems over time from the disease.

The American Diabetes Association continues to be committed to improving the lives of all people affected by diabetes. To increase awareness of its programming and resources, which includes workshops, brochures and DVDs, the organization hosted a “Faith to Fight Diabetes” informational breakfast for health advocates of AfricanAmerican houses of worship in New York City on October 1, 2015 at their headquarters in Manhattan. thepositivecommunity.com

Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death in the AfricanAmerican community

L–R: Daphney Quinones, MPH, manager. Mission Delivery; Helene Veleacuez; Adrian Council, Sr.; and Monique Hedmann, program manager, Hip Hop Public Health November 2015 The Positive Community

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NEW HOURS OF OPERATION OPEN 7am to 7pm: Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. & Sun. CLOSED: Mon. & Tues

“Winter in Essex County offers many special ways for people of all ages to celebrate the season. Come out and join us at the Zoo, at the Castle and at the Environmental Center.”

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive

and the Board of Chosen Freeholders

Holiday Lights Spectacular 5 to 9 PM November 27-29; December 4-6 and December 11 to January 3 Closed December 24 & 25

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Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex • Essex County Turtle Back Zoo • Carousel Rides are $2 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange • 973-731-5800 ~ www.essexcountynj.org/turtlebackzoo Sponsored by PSE&G, Covanta Energy, The Essex County Parks Foundation and The Zoological Society of New Jersey

HOLIDAY AT KIP’S CASTLE

November 27 to December 31 (Closed Dec. 24 & 25) Wednesday to Sunday, 12 Noon to 4pm

HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT TOURS AT KIP’S CASTLE

December 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17 & 19 7pm $5 advanced registration is required.

www.EssexCountyNJ.org

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HISTORIC HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

December 5 & 6 ~ Times Vary Essex County historic homes open their doors.

SUSTAINABLE HOMES & HABITAT GINGERBREAD CONTEST

at the Essex County Environmental Center Registration Deadline: Dec. 5; On Exhibit Dec. 9-18; Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm; Saturday 10am to 2pm

PUTTING ESSEX COUNTY FIRST thepositivecommunity.com

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November 2015 The Positive Community

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Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Wells Fargo and Partners Host Youth Financial Literacy Workshop

Anthony Anderson

Featuring Anthony Anderson Of ABC’s Black-ish

Larisa Perry, president Northeast Region Wells Fargo

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ver 250 children and parents from the Tri-state area attended the interactive one-day credit management session sponsored by Wells Fargo and hosted by The Positive Community (TPC) and Bergen Community College on October 10 on the BCC campus in Paramus, NJ In classes taught by instructors from World of Money, a not-for profit financial education institute headed

by CEO Sabrina Lamb, participants learned essential savings and budgeting lessons, credit management tips, and the benefits and risks of investing at an early age.

Anthony Anderson of ABC’s Black-ish was the featured guest speaker. He shared his personal credit story, which included growing up as a child in Compton, Calif., his journey into adulthood as a college student, and presently as an actor and father. He also imparted advice to the young listeners and shared money lessons he learned along the way.

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Anthony with Ursula Daniels of Bergen County College

“It’s utterly essential that young people are familiar with the art of money, savings, and credit because it’s part of their future,” said Adrian Council, co-founder and publisher of TPC. “We are so thrilled to be able to engage with our young people around the conversation of personal finance with the help of Wells Fargo and World of Money. This workshop, as part of our Newark Roundtable Leadership Series, will not only help secure the financial well-being of children and parents who attended the event, but it will also empower them to make informed decisions about their future and contribute to the future of their local communities.”

Established in 2010, TPC’s Newark Roundtable Leadership Series (NRLS) focuses on promoting topics such as health, education, and business important to local our readers. This series has brought together elected officials, influential business and community leaders, and thepositivecommunity.com

Anthony Anderson with Jean Nash Well of The Positive Community

Sabrina Lamb, CEO World of Money

faith-based organizations to influence and ignite positive change. In 2012, Wells Fargo partnered with us creating the Platinum Business component of NRLS specifically focused on business, entrepreneurship, personal finance, women in business and youth financial literacy.

Wells Fargo’s Northeast Region President Larisa Perry welcomed participants to the Youth Financial Literacy Roundtable and provided an overview around the bank’s involvement with Get Smart About Credit –a national financial education volunteer program created by the American Bankers Association to educate and raise awareness among young consumers about the importance of using credit and debt responsibly.

“We are thrilled to partner with The Positive Community to educate consumers—young and old – about the responsible use of credit and managing their debt,” said Perry. “As bankers, we understand that achieving one’s financial goals, whether short- or long-term, is thepositivecommunity.com

easier with knowledge. That’s why, every October, we are so proud to support ABA’s Get Smart About Credit campaign and bring tailored financial literacy events for consumers of all ages in our diverse communities.

Our goal this year is to reach at least 60,000 people across the nation and empower them on their road to financial freedom.”

“The fact that Anthony, who is an entertainer, was able to open up to the audience and share his progress with money was very eye-opening for our young participants. The audience could relate to the everyday challenges Anthony shared that we all at some point of our lives have faced or will face.”

Other event speakers included World of Money CEO, Sabrina Lamb, who is also an accomplished author and speaker; Assistant to the President of Bergen County Community College Ursula Parrish-Daniels; and TPC’s Co-Founder Jean Nash Wells.

November 2015 The Positive Community

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Scenes from Wells Fargo Youth Financial Literacy Workshop “…I know participants of the youth financial literacy event gained invaluable insight from the World of Money about money and credit management. And, we encourage parents to take advantage of Wells Fargo’s Get Smart About Credit tools —that are available online—and continue their learnings to build better financial habits as a family unit.”

Larisa Perry Regional President, Wells Fargo “Literacy is not an option for our children… it is an imperative! Not only academic literacy but financial literacy as well.

Knowledge is potential power… applied knowledge is exercised power. Attending the Youth Financial Literacy Workshop was an opportunity to educate and empower our children as well as parents and guardians. The young attendees were given tools to start building a solid foundation for their future through principles that develop a healthy mindset towards deferred gratification, goals, savings and investments. It was also a great opportunity for adults to unlearn some damaging and undermining attitudes and behaviors regarding their finances and purpose to grow in their financial literacy with their children. It’s not only what we leave to our children but more importantly what we leave in our children…that are a financial legacy!”

Lady Virginia Logan Messiah BC, Bridgeport Conn. “…The youth financial literacy workshop was an empowering event! The speakers did a phenomenal job relaying realworld experiences about money management to both the youth and their parents. Everyone walked away informed and inspired. I was so impressed I asked if the program could come to our Newark-based school. Our scholars and their families would greatly benefit from the insight and information shared.”

Michelle Griffith Marion P. Thomas Charter Schools, Newark

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The Positive Community November 2015

thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Vincent Bryant and Karen Waters

The Wells Fargo team

Anderson Visits Englewood Hospital

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pending the morning at the Youth Financial Literacy Workshop wasn’t enough for Anthony.

He decided to make a surprise visit to the pediatric ward at Englewood Hospital to bring some joy and gifts to the children. It was hard to tell who enjoyed the visit more— the children, their parents, or Anthony. Thanks Anthony Anderson for being such a kind and caring person!

Kay Lucas, Media Sense; Anthony; and Phylis Brown Edwards, Englewood Hospital

thepositivecommunity.com

November 2015 The Positive Community

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The Positive Community November 2015

DEGREES OFFERED • Accelerated Degree Completion Program • Bachelors Degrees (38 majors) • Alliance Theological Seminary • Master Degree Programs in: Organizational Leadership (MSOL), Business Administration (MBA), Mental Health Counseling (MA), Childhood Education (MED) and TESOL (MA) Teaching and Learning centered on the Word of God; Faculty and students are engaged in ministry; Evening and weekend classes are available at two easily accessible campuses: Battery Park and Nyack, NY. Visit us online at: nyack.edu/ATS For more information: 845-770-5709 Blog: life.nyack.edu or: admissions.grad@nyack.edu Twitter: @ATSAdmissions 350 North Highland Ave., Nyack NY 10960 Instagram: @AllianceSeminary thepositivecommunity.com

CONGRATULATIONS Don Viapree!

Don Viapree, his wife, Claudia, (to his right) and sister-in-law Donelda Iyizoba Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Essex County Freeholder Wayne Richardson, Don Viapree, and Adrian Council, Sr., publisher TPC

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fter nearly 35 years in the telecommunications industry, in August Don Viapree retired as director of Government Affairs at Cablevision.

On October 1st, more than 200 colleagues, friends and family, gathered at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark to wish him well.

L–R: Kaylyn Kendall Dines and the Honorable Sybil Elias

The guest of honor received a proclamation from Senator Raymond J. Lesniak, Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, and Assemblyman Jamel C. Holley, of Union County.

Known as the “Supreme Connector,” Viapree welcomed a contingent of young men and women whom he mentored over the years and were on hand to honor him.

Metropolitan Room at the Newark Club offers an elegant atmosphere, overlooking the New York skyline from the 22nd floor, with second-to-none dining by our world-class chef.

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43

It’s Happening at

Columbia in November WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Panel Discussion: Corruption Round-up

Group Discussion: Parsing Tech Talk

CUMC Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert

12:10 P.M. 102A Jerome Greene Hall, Morningside campus There is no shortage of scandals in New York state politics. Hear about the status of these corruption cases from New York Times writer William Rashbaum. For more info, contact Jacob Watkins at (212) 854-7419.

Billie Holiday: The Musician and the Myth

7:00 P.M. Casa Italiana, 1161 Amsterdam Ave., Morningside campus John F. Szwed, director of Columbia’s Center for Jazz Studies discusses his new book; introduction by Farah Jasmine Griffin.

Live performance by Catherine Russell and her Trio. Free but registration required. To register, email ym189@columbia.edu. For more info, visit www.jazzcolumbia.edu.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 The Untold Story of Women in Iran

6:00 P.M. Event Oval, Diana Center, Barnard campus Nina Ansary discusses her widely anticipated book Jewels of Allah, which shatters stereotypes and the often misunderstood story of women in Iran today. Registration required. For more info and to register, visit http://bcrw.barnard.edu.

Symposium: Rembrandt’s Changing Impressions

3:00 P.M. TO 6:00 P.M. 612 Schermerhorn, Morningside campus Wallach Art Gallery hosts an international group of art historians and curators as they reflect on Rembrandt’s graphic experimentation. For more info, email wallach@columbia.edu.

4:00 P.M. 601B Pulitzer Hall, Morningside campus Join Farai Chideya and Josh Begley of The Intercept and Marguerite Holloway of Columbia Journalism School for a group discussion. Contact Liz Boylan for more info at eb2596@columbia .edu. Registration required; register at http://towcenter.org/events.

Jazz Concert: Anat Cohen Quartet

8:00 P.M. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus

Anat Cohen’s clarinet sings out with the many musical voices of Brazil. Tickets $20-$35. For more info and tickets, visit www.millertheatre.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 This Muslim American Life

6:00 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M. 509 Knox, Morningside campus Moustafa Bayoumi, associate professor of English at Brooklyn College, discusses what the War on Terror looks like from the vantage point of Muslim Americans. For more info, email Amy Starecheski at aas39@columbia.edu.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 The Transparency Series: Illustration

5:00 P.M. Brown Institute for Media Innovation, Pulitzer Hall, Morningside campus In this panel discussion, Ellen Wei n s t ei n , world -r e now ne d illustrator and frequent contributor to many publications, moderates a conversation on illustration as it relates to journalism. For more info, visit ht t p://t ransparency.brow n .columbia.edu

3:00 P.M. Alumni Auditorium, 650 W. 168 St., Medical Center campus The CUMC Symphony Orchestra, composed of students, faculty, and staff, will perform Mozart’s Coronation Mass in C Major, followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, conducted

by Chris Grubb. Tickets: $5.

For more info, contact Jacob Watkins at (212) 854-7419.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Global Citizenship

6:00 P.M. TO 7:15 P.M. World Room, Pulitzer Hall, Morningside campus Nicholas Lemann, director of Columbia Global Reports, will moderate a panel discussion on global citizenship, statelessness, and Atossa Araxia Abrahamian’s debut book The Cosmopolites: The Coming of the Global Citizen. Registration required.

For more info and to register, visit http://cgt.columbia.edu.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 A Conversation With Alissa J. Rubin

6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. 301 Pulitzer, Morningside campus Jill Abramson, former executive editor of The New York Times, in conversation with Alissa J. Rubin about the risks and rewards of a career in journalism, their years together at The New York Times, the challenges of being a female war correspondent, family and work-life balance, and advice for students.

For more info and to RSVP, visit www.journalism.columbia.edu.

Men’s Basketball vs.

Lehigh

4:00 P.M. Francis S. Levien Gymnasium, Dodge Physical Fitness Center, Morningside campus

For more info, call (212) 854-2535 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Pop-up Concerts: Inventions

6:00 P.M. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus Virtuoso percussionist Doug Perkins, solo and in duet, with cellist Lauren Radnofsky. Free. For more info, visit www.millertheatre.com.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Women’s Basketball vs.

University of Loyola (Md.)

2:00 P.M. Francis S. Levien Gymnasium, Dodge Physical Fitness Center, Morningside campus For more info, call (212) 854-2535 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30 A Strategic Roadmap for Mexico’s Foreign Policy

4:00 P.M. 802 International Affairs, Morningside campus Mexican Mondays is a lecture series hosted by the Center for Mexican Studies that brings leading scholars, journalists, artists, and public figures to Columbia for seminar-style discussion. For more info, call (212) 854-4643 or visit www.ilas.columbia.edu

Manhattanville Course Auditing And Lifelong Learners Program Columbia University funds up to 50 courses each academic year for residents of Manhattanville Houses, Grant Houses and others in the local community. The program provides adults not currently enrolled in college with the opportunity to attend selected lectures drawn from the University’s offerings in the arts and sciences. For more info, visit http://ce.columbia.edu/ auditing/manhattanville-auditing-program.

www.events.columbia.edu · (212) 854-2871 For disability services, call (212) 854-2284 prior to the event.

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President/CEO Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Lloyd A. Williams

Money BUSINESS, MONEY & WORK

Public Forum on Economic Disparities

Congressional Black Caucus and Joint Economic Committee Address Challenges L-R: Walter Edwards, Jennifer Jones Austin, David R. Jones, Rep. Yvette D. Clarke, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Rep. G.K. Butterfield, Rep. Charles B. Rangel, Rep. Hakeem S. Jeffries, Professor William “Sandy” Darity, and Hope Knight.

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t was standing room only on Friday, October 30, when members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and Joint Economic Committee (JED) held a public forum—The American Dream on Hold: Economic Challenges in the African American Community—at the Mural Pavilion at Harlem Hospital in Manhattan.

CBC Chairman Congressman G. K. Butterfield (D-NC); Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Ranking Democrat on the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC); Congressman Charles B. Rangel, founding member of the CBC and dean of the New York State Congressional Delegation; Congressman Gregory W. Meeks,(D-NY) senior member of the House Financial Services Committee; Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Small Business Committee; and Congress-

thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS President/ CEO, C.Virginia Fields; Teamsters Local 237 President Gregory Floyd, and New York State NAACP President Dr. Hazel N. Dukes

man Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), member of the House Judiciary Committee, hosted the forum.

The forum was the second among a series of discussions planned around a JEC report released earlier this year and a New York-specific report released this month, that found striking disparities between blacks and whites in employment, wealth, housing, and education.

“It [the forum] allows us to highlight the incredible work that lies ahead as we identify ways to repair the damage stemming from a history of racial division so that all Americans can enjoy equality, fairness, and opportunity,” said Rep. Butterfield. In his remarks, Rep. Rangel thanked the CBC and JEC for “… coming to Harlem to discuss how steep the ladder is and how far apart the rungs are, so we can work on policies that will help tackle the rising inequalities threatening the wellbeing and future of our communities,”

L-R: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-9), Rep. G.K. Butterfield (NC-01), Rep. Charles B. Rangel (NY-13), and Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12)

A wide cross section of panelists from a variety of organizations from the not-for profit, business and education sectors discussed the impact of economic challenges and persistent inequities facing African Americans across the country.

They are: Professor William “Sandy” Darity, professor, Duke University David R. Jones, president/ CEO, Community Service Society of New York Hope Knight, president/CEO, Greater Jamaica Development Corporation Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO, Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies Walter Edwards, chairman, Harlem Business Alliance Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, president, NAACP New York State Conference Gregory Floyd, president, Teamsters Local 237

Congressional Black Caucus at Harlem Hospital held in the Herbert G. Cave Auditorium

C. Virginia Fields, president / CEO, National Black Leadership Commission Clayton Banks, founder and co-executive producer, Silicon Harlem Alejandra Castillo, Esq., national director, Minority Business Development Agency

Photos: Courtesy of Harlem Hospital

L–R: Former NYC Comptroller John Liu and NYS Senator Bill Perkins thepositivecommunity.com

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L–R: McDonald's Owner Operators, Cort Norman, Dave Hatton; Bridget Kelly, Wayne Chrebet, John Starks; McDonald's Owner Operators, Nellie Thomas, John Kaufman, Brian Hairston

Mcdonald's Launches All Day Breakfast

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f you happen to be one of the few who hasn’t heard, I’m here to tell you the good news that most McDonald’s restaurants in the tri-state area are now serving breakfast all day.

The announcement was made in early October and local McDonald’s restaurants hosted activities and invited customers to enjoy McDonald’s All Day Breakfast menu and share their experiences at #BreakfastNeverSleeps. In three days of hoopla—live broadcasts on top local radio stations WKTU, Hot 97, Radio 103.9 and LaMega 97.9 with DJ’s, giveaways and games were just the beginning of the celebration. On October 6th, the first day of all day breakfast, customers at the Manhattan 220 W. 42nd Street McDonald’s were treated to guest appearances by former New York Jet Wayne Chrebet, former Knick John Starks, the world famous Rockettes, the Brooklyn Nets Dancers, a performance by singer and

songwriter Bridget Kelly, the Brooklyn United Marching Band, and the McDonald’s Gospel Super Choir.

“Why the big deal?” you ask. According to Paul Hendel, McDonald’s owner with restaurants in New York City, “All Day Breakfast is the number 1 request from customers. In fact, more than 120,000 people tweeted McDonald’s asking for breakfast throughout the day in the past year alone.

We’ve listened to our customers, and we’re excited to offer the McDonald’s food they love, when and how they want it.”

Customers can now visit McDonald’s after 11:00a.m. and enjoy McMuffin Sandwiches (Egg McMuffin, Sausage McMuffin with Egg, Sausage McMuffin), Hotcakes with Sausage, Sausage Burrito, Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait, Fruit & Maple Oatmeal and Hash Browns, along with McDonald’s World Famous Fries and other iconic favorites, like the Big Mac and Filet-O-Fish.

Photos: Don Sherrill and Bruce Moore

RMHC® of the New York Tri-State Area Funds Largest Local College Scholarship Program in the Region Ronald McDonald House Charities of the New York Tri-State Area (RMHC-NYTSA) will award more than $600,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors in 2016.

The sponsor of the largest local college scholarship program in the region, RMHC-NYTSA is committed to supporting outstanding students in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut areas who may face difficulties paying for a higher education.

Applications are now available online at www.rmhcnytristate.org. Submission deadline is January 20, 2016.

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McDonald's Gospel Super Choir

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L–R: Scott Blow, Exec. VP CEDE; Baye Adofo-Wilson, deputy mayor for Economic Development & Housing Development; with host Andrew Frazier

Power Breakfast

Former Irvington Mayor Wayne Smith and Marc Williams, account executive, TPC Photos: Vincent Bryant

Thought Leaders Empower Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, Organization Managers

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he Power Breakfast is a quarterly event for entrepreneurs, business owners, and organizational leaders. It is an opportunity to learn business best practices, enjoy great networking, and obtain useful knowledge in order to enhance personal and professional success.

For three years, the Power Breakfast has featured business thought leaders from across the country sharing their experiences and cutting edge strategies for achieving success in the fast-paced, technology driven, global business environment.

Power Breakfast is the brainchild of Andrew Frazier, president/COO of A & J Management and a seasoned business professional with a more than 20 year track record of delivering superior results for the organizations and individuals to enhance strategic plans and achieve goals.

Frazier served as chief operating officer of The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), a trade organization representing the highest level African American Executives in corporate America. Prior to that he was an assistant vice president at the New York Life Insurance Company.

He also served with distinction as a US Navy Supply Corps Officer aboard the Navy Warship USS Clark (FFG-11) and in the Naval Reserves, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Andrew was awarded a Navy ROTC thepositivecommunity.com

scholarship to pursue his undergraduate education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering . He was also awarded a Consortium Fellowship to pursue his MBA in Finance and Management at New York University’s Stern School of Business. His focus on continually

Baye Adofo-Wilson

learning includes achieving the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) professional designation.

He is the recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal (NAM) for outstanding leadership and superior performance of his duties.

—JNW For more information visit www. aj-mgmt.com

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

Selected to the New Jersey Super Lawyers List for the tenth consecutive year Practice limited to personal injury and other civil litigation matters

IN PRACTICE FOR OVER 35 YEARS — EXPERIENCE MATTERS!

Email: clarenceba@gmail.com Website: www.barryaustinlaw.com November 2015 The Positive Community

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dfree Financial Freedom Conference

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he 4th Annual Financial Freedom Conference was held on October 30th and 31st at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, in Somerset, New Jersey.

Founder, Dr. DeForest Soaries first launched the dfree® strategy ten years ago in 2005. Several churches have since contributed to an expanded, improved dfree® model that can be easily replicated. During the conference, those churches, organizations, and individuals who have supported and promoted dfree® over the years were honored.

The conference this year was dedicated to strategy and support. A power-packed lineup of workshops, networking opportunities and training sessions for individuals, seniors, teens, clergy, community leaders—, those interested in promoting dfree®. Presenters were Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, ‘The Money Coach’; and Miko Branch, CEO Miss Jessie’s. Attendees were treated to a rousing gospel performance by the 3 Winans Brothers. dfree is a movement to eliminate debt in our communities. Freedom from the crushing burden of debtbondage is a worthy, much needed community-building goal for future wealth creation and collective prosperity. dfree is about the business of the future—our future!

Visit their website: www.mydfree.org —AAC

Morgan Stanley team

L–R: Marnie McKoy, CEO Community Charter School of Paterson and Vaughn McKoy, managing director/VP Legal, PSEG Long Island

Photos: Karen Waters

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L–R: Jocelyn R. Taylor, founder/chief strategy officer, JRT Multimedia; Bishop Donald Hilliard, pastor Cathedral International; and Monica Slater Stokes, managing director, Corporate and Government Affairs, United Airlines

Gospel Singer Kathy Taylor Adrian Council receives award on behalf of the Positive Community

L–R: Malibongwe and Landiwe Ntlokwana have a dfree franchise in South Africa

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Rev. Keenan Thomas

Deacon Richard Barber with Brett McCollough, Bloomberg LP

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Culture M U S I C ,

A R T

&

L I T E R AT U R E

Billy Strayhorn at 100 STRAYHORN: 1915–1967

BY VICTORIA HORSFORD

O

ne can appreciate the Billy Strayhorn influence whenever you enter a club or an elevator, look at a period movie or play, or opt for an easy listening formatted radio station. His “Take the A Train” is not only the America-during-the 40s anthem, it is considered one of the top 100 songs of the 20th Century.

Yes, Strayhorn—pianist, composer, and arranger—was a key contributor to the American Songbook. “Lush Life,” which he composed before his 23rd birthday, was revived last year by Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, and merited Billboard attention.

Born on November 29, 1915 in Ohio and raised in Pittsburgh, William Thomas Strayhorn was reborn when he arrived in New York in 1939 to work with Duke Ellington, who headed one of America’s preeminent big bands. He studied piano during his teen years and was encouraged by his grandmother and teachers alike.

Billy heard sounds in everything and composed “Blood

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November 2015

Count” based on noises during cancer treatment. He wrote the musical Fantastic Rhythm while in his teens.

Brainy in high school, he dreamed of becoming a classical pianist in Great Depression, Jim Crow America —a career that could not fly! He also loved Gershwin, Art Tatum and Teddy Wilson. The book Lush Life: The Billy Strayhorn Biography explains, “Everything that he loved about classical music was there in one form or another in jazz.”

Strayhorn’s storied collaborations with Duke Ellington, for almost three decades, are the stuff that movies are made of. They co-wrote “Satin Doll,” a Tin Pan Alley hit, fairly incongruent with either’s style. The jury seems to be out on the inspiration for “Satin Doll.”

And there is a long and impressive directory of suites for which they are credited including, “The Drum Is a Woman, “The Far East Suite,” “Newport Jazz Festival Suite,” and Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite,” which included jazz interpretations. There were also movie scores, “Anatomy of A Murder” and “Paris Blues,” just to name a few.

Strayhorn traveled the globe with Ellington’s orchestra. There was an attempted coup during a date they were playing in Iraq. There were lots of glory days with Ellington. There was also a darker side of their musical collaboration, which sidelined Strayhorn’s credits and publishing rights. They had no formal, written contract.

Strayhorn ultimately worked with almost every popular vocalist of his era: Lena Horne; Frank Sinatra, who wanted to hire him as his musical director; Ella Fitzgerald; Satchmo; Rosemary Clooney; Billy Taylor; and Carmen McRae. Lena Horne said that she learned music for the first time after working with Billy. thepositivecommunity.com

STRAYHORN, THE AFTER LIFE He died in 1967 after battling esophageal cancer. November 29, 2015 is his birthday centennial.

America has been celebrating his 100th all year. Moreover, the Billy Strayhorn Foundation and its profit generating counterpart, Billy Strayhorn Songs, work feverishly to bring him the recognition that he deserves. He has been nominated for a 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom, and Storyville Records has thepositivecommunity.com

Strayhorn and Duke Ellington

released a seven-CD compilation, Billy Strayhorn: Out of the Shadows. Agate Publishing released the book Strayhorn: An Illustrated Life, which is equal parts memoir, mid-Century jazz history, and photo essay. On 11/29, Jazz At Lincoln Center (JALC) salutes his centennial with two sets at Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola®, and the Peter and Will Anderson Quintet presents a Strayhorn concert at Symphony Space NY. Allah Harris performs Love Came, the Songs of Strayhorn at Dizzy’s from December 3–6. On June 10 and 11, 2016, JALC will continue to celebrate the legacy of Billy Strayhorn with concerts featuring the JALC Orchestra and Winton Marsalis.

big band holidays DEC 17–18 • 8PM, DEC 19 • 2PM & 8PM Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and vocalists Audrey Shakir and Denzal Sinclaire ADRIANE LENOX • PHOTO BY JOE MARTINEZ

Strayhorn had a private life which he made public. He was an openly gay man in a work environment that was intolerant. Big bands, swing and jazz combos have always been hypertestosterone driven. That his chances of organizing his own big band or a jazz quartet were slim to non-existent would explain the symbiotic relationship with the Duke. He liked the good life and also had a characteristically Sagittarian hedonistic side. He loved good food, good booze, and cigarettes almost as much as he loved music. He was a fashionista and had a tremendous sense of style— Americana and French.

Billy Strayhorn was not insulated from the world of real politics and was proactive with the civil rights movement. He was proactive in the aborning civil rights movement and the necessity to combat Jim Crow. A card-carrying NAACP member, he attended the March On Washington, and was acquainted with Dr. King and Medgar Evers thanks to friends like Lena Horne, Dr. Arthur Logan, and his wife, Marian—themselves active civil rights advocates He loved NY nightlife in the 40s, especially places like Minton’s Playhouse, the fabled Harlem jazz spot where bebop was born. It was a place where African-American jazz uber talents like Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonius Monk, and Bud Powell played. It was also known for its jam sessions, which engaged Billy.

Rumor has it that he played piano at a jam session and no pianist would follow him.

divas of the silver screen: celebrating lena horne, rosemary clooney & ethel waters DEC 18–19 • 7PM & 9:30PM Featuring TONY Award winning–vocalist Adriane Lenox and more

jazz in the key of life JAN 15–16 • 8PM Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and music director Vincent Gardner

Jazz at Lincoln Center Venue Frederick P. Rose Hall Box Office Broadway at 60th, Ground Fl. CenterCharge 212-721-6500

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David Dinkins Honored Manhattan Municipal Building name changed to David N. Dinkins Municipal Building Mayor de Blasio unveils one of five plaques that will be placed around the David N. Dinkins Municipal Building.

Tom Watkins, publisher, Daily Challenge with NY State Assemblyman Keith Wright

Photos: Lem Peterkin

L-R: Former NYC First Lady Joyce Dinkins, Honoree Former Mayor David N. Dinkins, Mayor Bill de Blasio, and First Lady Chrilane McCray

F

L-R: NY State Assemblyman Nick Perry, Mayor Dinkins, and Letitia James, New York City Public Advocate

ormer Mayor David N. Dinkins, the city’s first black mayor, was honored for his decades of public service with the renaming of the Manhattan Municipal Building as David Dinkins Municipal Building. Five plaques with the new name will be placed around the building located at 1 Centre St., at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge and across from City Hall. Dinkins, 88, served as mayor from 1990 to 1993. He had previously served in the New York State Assembly as City Clerk and Borough President of Manhattan.

Saying he was “delighted” to learn of the honor, Dinkins remarked, “I would’ve been happy to have a lamppost named after me. I appreciate any acknowledgment of my efforts, but this is different.

“It will live on for who knows how long, and hopefully some young person in the future will ask ‘Who was David Dinkins?’ and someone will say he was the city’s first black mayor, and he loved children.”

Always gracious and self-effacing in accepting the honors that have been bestowed on him over the years, Dinkins stated that the honor of having a city building named for him really belonged to the people with whom he has worked. “My good fortune was having the support of so many people who helped get the job done. They deserve the credit. I’m just the standard bearer,” he continued.

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Mayor Bill de Blasio, who worked for Dinkins during his years as mayor, imparted words of praise. “Those of us who were lucky to serve in the Dinkins administration had the honor of serving a leader who took challenges head on. He’s left an indelible impact on this city – and on Chirlane’s and my lives.”

First Lady Chirlane McCray went even further in her praise. “Words cannot express the depth of gratitude Bill and I have for Mayor David N. Dinkins. His legacy is a bright, guiding light for me, my family, and countless New Yorkers. Mayor Dinkins helped me understand that service to others is the rent we pay for time on earth.

Throughout his career, he led with dignity, generosity, and commitment. And by choosing a life of service, Mayor Dinkins helped grow another mayor, a first lady, and two smart, beautiful children.”

Council Member Andy King, co-chair of the Black, Latino & Asian Caucus, thanked the Mayor and First Lady for honoring Mayor Dinkins in such a way. “It’s not often the City of New York renames its municipal buildings; this is the least we can do for a New Yorker who is greatly loved and admired by many generations.

I applaud Mayor Bill de Blasio and First Lady Chirlane McCray for honoring former Mayor Dinkins in such an outstanding way.”

—JNW thepositivecommunity.com

Roberto Clemente Gala PRAHD Continues Over 41 Years of Service

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he Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD) recently hosted its 29th Annual Roberto Clemente Gala at the Renaissance Hotel in Iselin, NJ. PRAHD has been serving the Perth Amboy community for over 41 years in the areas of health, education, and special projects.

PRAHD's programs and services include: pre-school, tutoring and after school programs, summer youth recreation, youth work readiness, housing assistance (foreclosure and pre/post purchase counseling), HIV/ AIDS educational services, substance abuse prevention, employment and training for senior citizens, assisted transportation, language translation and interpretation, information and referrals, advocacy, home care for homebound and developmentally disabled individuals, disaster relief, food pantry, blindness prevention programs, and numerous recreational, social and cultural activities.

Not just a social service agency, PRAHD is the place where people come with their families to celebrate holidays, festivals, and other cultural events.

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L-R: Adrian Council; PRAHD Executive Director Yvonne Lopez; Roman Fuetes; Sam Delgado, Verizon; Hon. Wilda Diaz; Mayor, Perth Amboy, NJ; Bob Durso, PHAHD board chair; Hon. Kim Guadagno, Lt. Governor, NJ; and Tony Cruz, Esq.

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����A I

n September, Brooklyn’s St. Paul Community Baptist Church (SPCBC) held its 21st annual commemoration of the Maafa. Pronounced Mah- AH-fah, it is a Kiswahili word that gives definition to the catastrophic event experienced by millions of African people during the middle passage journey from Africa bound for enslavement in the Americas. The word MAAFA is the concept of Dr. Marimba Ani, African American scholar and author, and has been adopted in contemporary scholarship.

The Maafa Suite is a Broadway caliber depiction of those terrible occurrences staged in the sanctuary of St. Paul Community Baptist Church in Brooklyn featuring talented members of St. Paul’s congregation as the actors on stage, and workers behind the scenes. The cast

includes people of all ages—boys and girls, men and women from the tiniest to teenagers, middle aged, and elders who give their all for five nights of performances and make the scenes come alive, so that I was brought to tears on my first occasion of witnessing Maafa. The entire commemoration Maafa…a Healing Journey, features speakers, preachers and conversations and ends with a symbolic going home to Africa in a solemn ceremony on the beach.

The performance began with a depiction of European slave traders exploiting a dispute among Africans in order to enslave people on both sides of the dispute.

Next portrayed was the transatlantic Middle Passage of enslaved Africans to the Americas, “tight packed” between the decks of a ship. The next scene dramatized a North American slave auction, including the auctioneer marketing human merchandise while potential purchasers similarly pick over that human merchandise. A subsequent scene explored sexual abuse of enslaved blacks on a plantation. Another extolled slave liberator Harriet Tubman, The Maafa Suite, concluded with the cast singing and moving to black spirituals and gospel songs.

The annual Maafa commemoration began under the leadership of St. Paul’s former pastor, the nationallyknown respected and admired, Rev. Dr. Johnnie Ray Youngblood. The tradition continues under SPCBC’s current pastor, Rev. David K. Brawley. Dr. Youngblood currently pastors Mt. Pisgah BC in Brooklyn. On the final night of the performance, both congregations came together to celebrate the promise of freedom!

If you have a bucket list, you must include experiencing Maafa…a Healing Journey on that list!

BY JEAN NASH WELLS

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Photos: Griots Photography Ministry, Photography by Sena, Ian Lyn Photography

Obery M. Hendricks, Jr., Ph.D, speaker preacher at the opening of the MAAFA Commemoration September 16, 2015

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Jews & Jazz And African Americans Exhibit Examining the Relationships Opens in Newark

Aaron Weinstein

L-R: Sheila Anderson – WBGO; Wayne Winborne, newly appointed director of Institute for Jazz Studies, Rutgers Newark; Donna Walker-Kuhne, VP Community Engagement, NJPAC; Dorthaan Kirk, WBGO Special Events/Community Relations; and WBGO General Manager Amy Niles

ABOVE RIGHT: L-R: Donna Walker-Kuhne VP Community Engagement, NJPAC; Linwood Oglesby, former executive director, Newark Arts Council; and Gwen Moten, executive director. Mayor's Office of Arts, Cultural Development and Tourism

J

azz violinist and mandolin virtuoso, Aaron Weinstein kicked off the exhibit Jazz, Jews and African Americans on October 15. The Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University-Newark is collaborating with prominent Newark cultural, religious, and local organizations to produce community events and an exhibit, Jews, African Americans and Jazz: Cultural Intersections in Newark and Beyond, chronicling that history and some of its leading figures over the course of a century. The exhibit focuses as well on prominent Newark institutions, musicians and others who have made their mark in the jazz world. The exhibit is open Sundays, noon to 5pm and Thursdays, 6-8pm through December 13, 2015 at the Jewish Museum of New Jersey at Congregation Ahavas Sholom, 145 Broadway, Newark. There is no cost for admission.

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MAKE THE NEWARK MUSEUM PART OF YOUR HOLIDAY TRADITION

NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2015

SUNDAY PERFORMANCES

FUN DAYS

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 26–27 & 30–31

HaZamir: The International Jewish High School Choir – 2 pm

Family Gallery Programs/ Creative Play – 1, 2 & 3 pm Planetarium Shows – 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm

DECEMBER 13

A Season of Miracles, featuring The Pushcart Players – 1:30 pm The Yuletide Carolers – 3 pm

ALSO DON’T MISS

+ Romare Bearden’s Adoration of the Wise Men and other works from the Harlem Renaissance in the American Art galleries

DECEMBER 20

The North Jersey Philharmonic Glee Club – 2 pm DECEMBER 27

+ House and Home: Christmas in the Ballantine House – Tour the 1885 Ballantine House, decorated for a Victorian Christmas

Umoja Dance Company Celebrates Kwanzaa – 2 pm

+ The Shape of Light: Gabriel Dawe

THANKSGIVING FRIDAY NOVEMBER 27

Performance: Rev. Stef & Jubilation – 2 pm Family Gallery Programs/Creative Play: Thanking Those Closest to Us – 1, 2 & 3 pm Planetarium Shows – 1, 2, 3 & 4 pm

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

Planetarium shows will be shown all weekend at these times, November 27 – 29.

Family gallery programs are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services

Creative Play supported by a grant from The Nicholson Foundation

Creative Play NEWARK MUSEUM PRESENTS

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2015 SATURDAYS: 1, 2 & 3 PM FAMILY GALLERY PROGRAMS ARE FREE AND MEET IN THE EDUCATION LOBBY

Creative Play invites children and their families to explore the Museum together. Each session will include a gallery investigation, an opportunity to handle objects from the touch collection, and a family-designed project to take home.

Weekly themes highlight different areas of the art and science collections.

December

November TEACHER APPRECIATION

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7 & 8

Take a trip back to Colonial times to visit the one-room school house. Visitors will compare the role of a teacher from past to present and show their appreciation by embroidering a gift.

HONORING OUR VETERANS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14

In observance of Veterans Day, honor those who have fought for our freedom. Visit the American galleries and be inspired to create a thank-you postcard that can be sent to a Veteran.

Family gallery programs are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services

CELEBRATING FIRST RESPONDERS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Explore the Fire Museum as we commemorate our first responders for their selfless dedication to the community. Design your own first responder badge.

THANKING OUR LOVED ONES

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27 & 28 Kick off the holiday season and enjoy a Victorian Christmas like the Ballantine family. Create a Victorian-inspired ornament to share with a loved one.

BEYOND THE SQUARE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5

Visit the 3-D works of Andy Warhol and Robert Rauschenberg to gain inspiration to create your own 3-dimensional work of art.

AROUND: CIRCLES AND OVALS IN JEWELRY

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12 & 13

Discover how jewelry comes full circle by visiting Jewelry: From Pearls to Platinum to Plastic.Join us in up-cycling materials to make your own bling.

SHAPES IN NATURE

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 & 20

Visit the Dynamic Earth exhibit and observe shapes in nature.

Learn about organic shapes by looking at crystals, insects and land formations and create a tessellation from shapes of the natural world.

SHAPES THAT MAKE OTHER SHAPES

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 26 & 27

Learn how artists use many shapes to create larger structures. Using wood and found objects, visitors will build a “Nevelsonesque” sculpture.

For information about other programs, visit our website.

Creative Play supported by a grant from The Nicholson Foundation

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

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WISOMMM Celebrates 20 Years

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omen In Support Of the Million Man March, Inc. (WISOMMM), a non-profit community based organization in Newark, New Jersey, was created to support the historic Million Man March that was called by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan on October 16, 1995 in Washington, D.C. WISOMMM was originally formed to be a women’s contingent to the March to assist with outreach, recruitment, fundraising, and voter registration. After helping to send 50,000 men from New Jersey to join the more than two million people who attended the march, the women, of all different religions and age groups, decided to stay together, incorporate, and serve the Greater Newark community. WISOMMM has continued the spirit and momentum of the Million Man March, and is committed to serving the community according to the

tenets of the march, i.e. faith, empowerment, self-love, self-determination, and unification of the family.

Twenty years later, on October 23, 2015 at the WISOMMM African Ball and Awards Dinner, men and women who have assisted and supported the organization through the years we honored. They are Amiri Baraka, Jr., Muhammad’s Mosque #25 (Newark); Al-Nisa Muhammad and Torchlight Academy; Newark Councilwomen Gayle Chaneyfield-Jenkins; Council President Mildred Crump; Younis Moheisen of Kings Restaurant; Bessie Walker; Rashidah Hasan, Esq.; Sen. M. Teresa Ruiz; Thomas Ashley, Esq.; Viola Plummer,of December 12th Movement; and Akilah Ali and especially The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

—JNW

Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Amiri Baraka, Jr. chief of staff to Mayor Ras Baraka, Bessie Walker, former Newark councilmember and Newark Deputy Mayor Rahaman Muhammad,

L–R: Fredrica Bey, WISOMMM executive director, Amina Baraka, mother of Newark Mayor Ras J.Baraka, and Amina Bey, WISOMMM, co-chairperson

L–R: December 12th Movement Honorees Jamillah Muhammadi; Sister Collette; Viola Plummer; Fredrica Bey; Hon. Mildred C. Crump, Newark Council President; Charlotte Munnerlyn, WISOMMM; and Rev. Dr. Linda Rozier, United Chaplains

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CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH A GREAT PERFORMANCE!

The Hip Hop Nutcracker with special guest MC Kurtis Blow • 12/19

Mo’Nique & Friends Featuring Bruce Bruce, Capone, Smokey and Tone X Only metro area appearance!

Hosted by Quake’s House with Earthquake and Deja Vu Friday, November 20 at 8pm

MythBusters

Jamie’s Farewell Tour On-stage experiments, audience participation, including behindthe-scenes stories and more!

Sunday, November 22 at 7pm

Romeo & Juliet

KRS-One, The Lox, Ja Rule, Rakim, Mad Lion, Lords of the Underground and Black Moon

An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies

Friday, November 27 at 8pm

Adventures in Science Literacy Sunday, December 6 at 3pm

Masters of Ceremony

Neil deGrasse Tyson Wednesday, December 2 at 8pm

State Ballet Theatre of Russia Shakespeare’s timeless tale of tragic romance, set to music by Prokofiev, is danced by 55 of Russia’s brightest ballet stars.

Thursday, December 3 at 8pm

The Jacksons

with special guests

Forces of Nature Dance Theatre

The Commodores

Theresa Caputo Live!

“Brick House,” “ABC,” “ I’ll Be There” and more!

The psychic medium and star of the hit TLC show Long Island Medium, gives readings to audience members and shares personal stories about her life and gift.

NJPAC’s Kwanzza Celebration includes a FREE Children’s Festival with activities and performances that share the meaning of Kwanzaa and an Artisan Marketplace.

Friday, December 18 at 7:30pm

Saturday, December 19 at 2pm & 7:30pm

A Motown Xmas

Sunday, December 13 at 7pm

Kwanzaa Celebration

Dance Theatre of Harlem

Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds

Experience poetry in motion when the legendary Dance Theatre of Harlem headlines this year’s MLK Celebration at NJPAC.

This musical production, featuring a hit score by Bob Marley tells of Ziggy, who is so terrified of hurricanes, mongooses and other things in his native Jamaica that he’s afraid to leave the house!

Friday, January 16 at 7:30pm

Saturday, January 23 at 2pm

For tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC • Groups: 973.297.5804 NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • One Center Street, Newark, NJ

#NJPAC

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10/21/15 9:37 AM

BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Tiff Joy Grace & Peace uring this season when the world’s focus is on Thanksgiving, it’s wonderful to know that as believers, this is what we do daily. Helping others, rejoicing, giving praise and thanks is a lifestyle we practice through our Father’s love. He’s just good like that! When we think of the goodness of Jesus and all that He’s done for us, there is often a praise of Hallelujah that you can’t help but shout out to thank God for all that he’s done. When you see how God works and he shows you that it was nobody but Him who did it, it’s absolutely amazing! Tiff Joy is a witness to it, and shares her thankfulness in her eponymous album Tiff Joy. This heartfelt, 12-song project is on VaShawn Mitchell’s recording label Walkway Music Group/Tyscot Records, and her album debuted at #5 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Album and is rising as we speak.

STELLAR® Award Winner, Dove, and GRAMMY® nominee Tiff Joy is most likely already in your musical profile.

She is the voice and writer of Ricky Dillard & New G’s song “Amazing,” which stayed at number one for over three months. Now that’s amazing! The Chicago native has a classic church girl background; she grew up singing in the church of her parents, Bishop Timothy B. McGhee (who wrote songs for Chicago Mass Choir) and Pastor Bernadine Bell-McGhee of the Free Spirit Ministerial Worship Center in South Holland, IL. After college, Tiff established herself as a songwriter, collaborating with greats like Anita Wilson, VaShawn Mitchell, and Fred Hammond. However, it was the success with Ricky Dillard on “Amazing” that signaled that more would come from this woman of God. Tiff Joy wrote that song more than five years ago but had to wait, because timing is important when you are doing the work of God. It was in that process where she experienced a moment of doubt and questioned her destiny and purpose. Romans 8:18 is one of her favorite scriptures. Relying on God’s word, His promises, and strengthening her faith as

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she waited, the manifestation of her destiny began its process. With the thoughts and focus of just giving God back the gift He blessed her with in song, she was humbled to watch Him do it again as her uplifting radio single “The Promise” debuts on The Billboard Gospel Airplay charts in the top 30. “Wow…this is crazy,” said the excited singer. “I am constantly in awe of how God moves. This is Him and I’m forever grateful.”

The CD showcases her astounding vocal range and ability to inspire, encourage, proclaim, and worship by creating atmospheres with lyrical expressions tied with several musical genres of interpretation. Oh she knows what she’s doing and she’s doing it as given from our Father. The praise party begins with the up-tempo hype song “YOU Are.” This song makes a strong declaration of who God is. Think of The Jacksons’ classic hit “Can You Feel It”—ok, act like you don’t remember that song with that beat that makes you jump up and down. The praise party continues in that same energy but with more of a rock sound in the following song “Almighty GOD.” Tiff Joy uses her smooth melodic alto tone to persuade and remind us that “The Promise” shall come to pass. My favorite is “All That YOU Do”; it’s a passionate love song, a ballad if you will. It expresses who God is as a painter who steps back and looks at a masterpiece and tries to explain it in the most simple of words. It’s a project that you will love and love to bless someone else with. And they, too, will be Thankful.

“Awesome,” “Marvelous,” and “Phenomenal” are some of the words to describe our Father. Appreciative, humble & grateful are some of the words that express how Tiff Joy and all of us should be… at all times!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.—Romans 8:18

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Owner Stuart Boucaud (blue hat) and staff at Lion's Den

The Food Is Good Inside The Lion’s Den

BY GLENDA CADOGAN

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he most repeated advice he got while in the planning phase of his restaurant was “make sure that it reflects you.” So that’s just what Stuart Boucaud did; he made his restaurant a family-friendly community space. As such, Lion’s Den Caribbean Fusion Restaurant has already earned the reputation of being the new warm and cozy, feel-good place in Bedstuy. That’s because Boucaud is all about family and community. “To me, family is everything,” he told The Positive Community, “And after 12 years of working as a program director with a CBO, I am also invested in community development,” he added.

According to Boucaud, “family empowerment” is one of his primary reasons for getting into the restaurant business. “I was driven by the desire to create a better life for my family,” he said. “Furthermore, I came to the conclusion that I didn’t want to work for anyone anymore. I wanted to chart my own destiny and provide opportunities for my family.” Just six months into the business and Boucaud is walking his talk. The restaurant employs four of his six children, and his wife, Sharon, is the creative influence. But Lion’s Den has also become a “home” for local artists and artisans.

The idea of a Caribbean Fusion restaurant was conceptualized during Boucaud’s more than 16 years on the road as a beverage distributor. “I put in good hours working in community service,” he said, adding, as well at the corporate level. “When I was offered this opportunity to realize a dream I leaped at it.”

The concept behind Lion’s Den menu magic is that traditional West Indian dishes have been paired with that of other international cuisine. Its fare includes entrées like: curry crab cheesecake, jerk shrimp and mussels in a cilantro pesto, and coconut margarita sauce. The restaurant is also standing out for its three popular vegetarian dishes which include a savory portabella mushroom burger and a falafel kale salad with curry hummus dressing.

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Despite its healthy offerings however, t he Lion’s Den menu item to emerge as the people’s choice is its wings, which come in five flavors – guava ginger, jerk mojito, pineapple sweet chili, garlic parmesan, and honey chipotle. According to Boucaud, the wings gained in popularity as a result of a promotion called: “Wacky Wednesday Wine and Wings.”

Every Wednesday patrons enjoy the appetizing wings, paired with a different wine for every flavor.

At the Classon Avenue eatery, two large lion sculptures adorn the entrance. It is there that Boucaud hopes diners will deposit their stress and worries before entering.”

That’s because the lions – like everything in the restaurant – are inspired by his life experiences. “I have always had an attraction for lions,” Boucaud explained. “In fact, the first gift I gave to my now wife of 17 years was a lion pendant. My middle name is Jerome and it is said that St. Jerome is known to have been in the company with lions and tigers. There is probably a connection somewhere there,” he mused.

The mantra Boucaud has adopted in business is “we are leaving footprints in concrete.” Therefore, he is sparing no effort to ensure that like the “king of the beasts,” Lion’s Den becomes a community giant. “At Lion’s Den we are supporting local artists by allowing them space on our walls to display and sell their artwork,” he said. ” In addition, Boucaud has collaborated with area residents and block associations to host neighborhood events and park clean-ups. The restaurant has also become a popular spot for community groups, meetings, and gatherings.

His best advice for other people desirous of plunging into the entrepreneurial life is: “Take the chance…

And listen to your heart. A lot of people will have suggestions, but you must weigh everything against the strength of what you feel in your heart.” Good advice from this restaurant owner who one patron described as: ‘a tender lion of a man.”

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Baptist Ministers of New York L–R: Rev. Jessie Williams; Host Pastor Rev. James Morrison, president, BMCGNY&V; Rev. Ronald Grant, Empire Missionary Convention; Rev. Edgar Howard; and Rev. Dr. Carl Washington, 1st VP EMBC

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ev. James Morrison, president of the Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Greater New York and Vicinity (BMCGNY&V), recently welcomed Empire Missionary Baptist Convention of New York State President Rev. Ronald Grant as Order of the Day (guest preacher).

The BMCGNY&V is one of the nation’s oldest and largest ministers’ conferences. This clergy leadership organization represents pastors and ministers from over 475 churches in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut—with a potential to impact over 500,000 lives.

In its 114-year history, the organization has hosted many of the great names in the Baptist tradition: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Rev. Gardner C. Taylor; Rev. Adam

Clayton Powell, Jr.; and Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, as well as local, state, and national government and political leaders. John F. Kennedy, Jr. (son of the late U.S. President) addressed the conference just days before his tragic, fatal plane accident. The Positive Community was first published as a newsletter, Positive Community News in 1999 through the support and encouragement of then president, Rev. Frank J. Blackshear and his administration.

The organization meets each Monday at the historic Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem. Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III will preach on Monday, November 23, 2015, Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Day. Plans are now underway for the much anticipated annual King Day Service on Monday, January 18, 2016.

—AAC Photos: Bruce Moore

Clergy leadership, Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

East Brooklyn Congregations’ Redwood Senior Living Development “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

—Matthew 25:40 (New International Version)

n Sunday, October 25, 2015, church folks held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Redwood Senior Living, a new 80-unit apartment building in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn. Sponsored by East Brooklyn Congregations (EBC), Redwood Senior Living is intended to provide safe, affordable housing for senior citizens. The Rev. David K. Brawley, who is a leader within EBC and the pastor of St. Paul Community Baptist Church (SPCBC), was the lead speaker at the ceremony. Redwood Senior Living is situated about a block and a half north of SPCBC. That Sunday afternoon, following the third and last SPCBC worship service of the day, but before the ribboncutting, the SPCBC sanctuary began to fill up with senior citizens, church members, persons affiliated with EBC, and others. Outside of that house of worship on the asphalt surface of Hendrix Street, a youth band, dressed in parade regalia, beat their drums in patterns and harmonies that, to my ear and musical study, sounded more like African rhythms than like standard marching beats.

As ribbon-cutting time drew near, the people filed out of the sanctuary and onto the street behind the youth band. They trekked south, east, then south again until they reached the northwest corner of Schenck and Wortman Avenues, where Redwood Senior Living is located.

After gathering at Redwood, Pastor Brawley and others spoke about what had gone into making Redwood a reality and the hope and responsibility for making its future secure, safe, and successful. Brooklyn’s East New York neighborhood has come a long way since the 1970s. Back then, when the South Bronx was burning amid much publicity, East New York and some adjacent neighborhoods also burned, but with much less publicity. Crime rates were high and average incomes were low.

Over the decades, EBC, through its Nehemiah Program, has facilitated the development of an abundant number of single-family row houses, often on the very grounds previously occupied by burned-out buildings. More recently,

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340+ families have moved into owner-occupied Nehemiah homes in the Spring Creek subsection of East New York.

Ultimately, 1,525 Spring Creek units are planned.

Additionally, EBC has facilitated a working relationship among church congregations, other citizens, and the police. Although murders still happen in East New York, crime rates have declined significantly since the 1970s. My over-simplified but, in my opinion relevant explanation is that the folks who used to mug and murder people are now in church.

But success has birthed new issues. For example, the gentrification concept is now rearing its head, with some Manhattan types beginning to identify East New York as the next neighborhood that should go from shunned to chic.

To me, their view is that the blacks and others who stuck with and worked with East New York through its decades of improvement, and thereby rose with that tide, should, in the near future, be out-priced and ultimately replaced with more affluent urbanites.

But this was not discussed much at the Redwood ribboncutting. Podium speakers talked more about providing a safe, affordable living environment for the neighborhood’s elderly. I strongly support that.

EBC also organizes residents of public housing projects located in East New York and adjoining neighborhoods, and pressures the New York City government to improve conditions within those developments. I strongly support that also.

The “Redwood” concept, as expressed by Rev. Brawley and others, refers to those famously tall redwood trees in California. How can those trees grow so tall, yet not topple over? The explanation given is that, although there is little or no above ground support besides the tree trunks, the underground roots of the redwood trees intertwine, creating in effect, a unified foundation that enables all of the trees to stand up together. Similarly and figuratively, say the Redwood advocates, God-centered people can build an intertwined foundation that enables us to stand together.

Let’s pray for the success of that concept, the success of Redwood Senior Living, and the continued success of EBC’s other housing and social initiatives.

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

The Last Word thepositivecommunity.com November 2015

™

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 15, No. 10

SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

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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, november not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM, its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

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s temperatures drop, ovens are heating up to prepare what many consider the most important meal of the year: Thanksgiving dinner. Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday.

As a little girl, I looked forward to it more than Christmas because not only did the house smell absolutely delicious, but it was full of friends and relatives who came from far and near to help celebrate the day and eat the food whose aroma had been tantalizing us the night before and all day long. Sure, we got toys for Christmas, but no toy could have ever been more fun than playing with our cousins and giggling wildly at jokes only we found funny. And we always watched the Macy’s parade, then hours upon hours of football!

As an adult, I still love Thanksgiving Day, but I now know just how much time, money, and energy actually go into preparing a holiday meal. The peeling, the roasting, the boiling, the baking, and simply making space in the oven, refrigerator, or on the countertop can certainly try one’s patience. But in the end, it’s always well worth it when everyone is gathered around the table and a hush falls over the crowd, the chorus of “mmms and aahs” the only sounds to accompany the meal.

Now more than ever, we need to be thankful. Many of us are scaling back and maybe we don’t have quite as much on our tables, but still…

God willing, we have something. As I prepare for Thanksgiving this year, my focus is less on what will be served and more on the things most often taken for granted, like health, home, family, friends, and life.

Last year, I spent Thanksgiving in a chair next to my husband’s hospital bed, praying for his life. This year, he is home, healthy, and looking forward to whatever is served on Thursday because no matter what it

might be, it’ll definitely be better than hospital food! This year, my family will gather to celebrate my uncle’s 90th birthday—an incredible blessing! The stories, laughter, camaraderie, and love that our family will share are both priceless and immeasurable.

As I reflect on how thankful I am to be alive, healthy, and blessed with the health of my husband, I cannot help but pause for a moment to pray for this world. I’m praying for the people in France and Nigeria; those who lost their lives in senseless terrorist attacks as well as those who survived and are fighting for their lives or dealing with the loss of loved ones.

I’m praying for the Syrian refugees who desperately need a safe haven, and the American politicians who voted against offering them asylum here.

I am encouraged by the fact that several retailers have chosen to shutter their doors this Thanksgiving in an effort to allow workers to actually enjoy the holiday with family and friends. Perhaps we’re finally realizing that the things that truly matter and for which we should genuinely be thankful simply do not come in boxes or bags —unless you count the boxes of macaroni and bags of shredded cheese that will be transformed into succulent macaroni and cheese all brown and bubbly on top.

I cannot count the things for which I’m thankful, because there are just too many of them. I thank God daily for allowing me to open my eyes and then the added gift of watching the sunrise. Despite watching it from the same vantage point each morning, it is still magnificent and I sincerely pray that I never cease to marvel at God’s daily miracle, no matter how many sunrises I see. And that’s just the first few moments of a day full of blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!

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