Summer 2021 NJ by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ Summer 2021

$2.95

thepositivecommunity.com

ESSEX COUNTY: MARTIN LUTHER KING JUSTICE BUILDING HARLEM PROUD: CARVER FEDERAL’S MICHAEL T. PUGH

GUEST EDITORIAL: REV. DR. CORNELL EDMONDS, ESQ..

BROOKLYN: AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS PLAZA NAMED FOR POPULAR ACTIVIST

JACK CIATTARELLI’S URBAN RENEWAL PLAN ›› BUILD on the success of charter schools, expand educational choice, and fulfill the state’s obligation to provide a thorough and efficient education to all. ›› EXPAND the role of faith-based organizations in the community and work to strengthen the relationship between minority communities and law enforcement. ›› FOSTER economic investment with bold redevelopment efforts that involve local governments and community members in the decisionmaking process from Day One. ›› PROMOTE entrepreneurship and minority-owned business and ensure they have all the resources – financial and otherwise – necessary to succeed. ›› ADDRESS “food deserts” and improve the access and delivery of affordable healthcare to the poor and uninsured.

@Jack4NJ

PAID FOR BY CIATTARELLI FOR GOVERNOR, INC, PO BOX 427, SOMERVILLE, NJ 08876

Jack Positive Community-Summer.indd 1

7/20/21 6:20 PM

Tri-State Tri-State Ballroom Ballroom

Accommodates up to 1,200 people Accommodates up to 1,200 people

A A Newark Newark landmark landmark and and favorite favorite gathering gathering place place for for Church Church conferences, conferences, family family reunions reunions and and all all other other occasions. occasions.

The Robert Treat Hotel is the perfect The Robert Treat Hotel is the perfect setting for your Church’s next conference or setting for your Church’s next conference or social function. We offer six fully-equipped social function. We offer six fully-equipped Conference Rooms that can accommodate Conference Rooms that can accommodate groups of 150 to 500 people. Our elegant groups of 150 to 500 people. Our elegant state-of-the-art, Tri-State Ballroom can state-of-the-art, Tri-State Ballroom can accommodate up to 1,200 people. accommodate up to 1,200 people. Our full-service kitchen offers a wide variety Our full-service kitchen offers a wide variety of food and beverage options to meet any of food and beverage options to meet any event’s special needs. Call today! event’s special needs. Call today!

NOW NOW OPEN OPEN FOR FOR BOOKINGS! BOOKINGS!

Fifty Park Place, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4398 Fifty Park Place, Newark, New Jersey 07102-4398 Banquet Office Direct: 973-622-2153 Banquet Office Direct: 973-622-2153 800-569-2300 • 973-622-100 800-569-2300 • 973-622-100 www.rthotel.com www.rthotel.com Berger Organization Berger Organization www.bergerorg.com www.bergerorg.com

CONTENTS

Cover photo by Essex County Executive

SUMMER 2021

Newark Celebrates New Martin Luther King Jr. Justice Building Cover photo by Regina Fleming‑

Michael T. Pugh is solving problems and focusing on small businesses as Carver Bank navigates the pandemic and beyond.

&also inside Guest Editorial ................................... 8 Fitness Doctor ................................. 12 The Last Word .................................. 46 4

The Positive Community Summer 2021

Features MLK Justice Building ................................................ 17 Simple Pleasures for A Great Cause .......................... 20 Carver Bank’s Michael T. Pugh .................................. 23 Sylvia White Joins Bridge Philanthropic ..................... 26 Medgar Evers College’s First Woman President ......... 27 Isley Brothers Honored with Street Namings ............. 30 Black Theaters Survive .............................................. 31 Woody King Jr. Retires from NFT ............................... 32 Dr. Albert J. Lewis Celebrates Birthday ...................... 34 Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson’s Pastoral Anniversary ... 36 International African Arts Festival ............................. 38 George Floyd Lives on through Art ............................. 40 Brooklyn Plaza Renamed for Jitu K. Weusi ................. 41 Juneteenth Prayer and Praise ................................... 44 www.thepositivecommunity.com

No one prepares for prostate cancer. But we’re prepared to fight it. Complete cancer care, all in one location. If you or a loved one are at risk or have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital is here for you. From screening to diagnosis and treatment, our highly skilled team, including Weill Cornell Medicine doctors, seamlessly provides patients with the care and treatment they need. Get expert prostate cancer screening and treatment, right here in Brooklyn. Visit nyp.org/brooklyn/prostate or call 646-960-8600

his will be a 3-day Virtual Experience that is designed to help you expand in ministry, or in the marketplace. Our speakers will be sharing growth strategies and structures needed for survival in a pandemic and beyond. Including a Class on Social Justice.

Why you should register for #LCLG? You will hear from ministry leaders, and entrepreneurs, who have “boots on the ground” with a successful track record. • All of our practitioners have successfully thrived in, and • The Power of Your Yes! On to Your Next survived this pandemic. • You will get innovative strategies to put in your ministry and/or marketplace toolkit, that will ensure sustainability and longevity. Workshop Topics include… • God in the Ghetto • Carrying Out the Vision in Fiscal Affairs • The Next Chapter – Do You Have Enough Money • A Blended Approach – Praise and Worship, Litanies and Liturgy Old and New • The Absolute Necessity of Technology in These Times

• Maintaining Relevance • Supporting the ministry and the vision of the Senior Pastor • Taking Good Care of Business • How We Made It! And more........ Register today at www.donaldhilliardjr.org Sign up your entire team.

R C

GREAT GREAT

OLL

MAKE MAKE THE THE DIFFERENCE! DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO TO PROGRESS PROGRESS

he he clergy clergy organizations, organizations, churches, churches, community community businesses businesses and and institutions institutions listed listed below below have have committed committed to to the the purchase purchase of of at at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more more by calling calling 973-233-9200 973-233-9200 or or email email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. by

Abundant Life Abundant Life Fellowship Fellowship COGIC, COGIC, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr., Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor Pastor Abyssinian Abyssinian B.C., B.C., Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Calvin Calvin O. O. Butts Butts III, III, Pastor Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Newark, Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Barry Barry R. R. Miller, Miller, Pastor Pastor Aenon Aenon Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Vauxhall, Vauxhall, NJ NJ Rev Rev Alphonso Alphonso Williams, Williams, Sr., Sr., Pastor Pastor Agape Agape Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Craig Craig R. R. Jackson, Jackson, Pastor Pastor Antioch Antioch Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Robert Robert M. M. Waterman, Waterman, Pastor Pastor Archdiocese Archdiocese of of New New York York Brother Brother Tyrone Tyrone Davis, Davis, Office Office of of Black Black Ministry Ministry Baptist Ministers Conference Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Charles Charles A. A. Curtis, Curtis, President President BCT Partners, Newark, BCT Partners, Newark, NJ NJ Dr. Dr. Randal Randal Pinkett, Pinkett, CEO CEO Berean B.C., Berean B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Arlee Arlee Griffin Griffin Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Bethany Bethany B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Adolphus Adolphus C. C. Lacey, Lacey, Sr. Sr. Pastor Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Rev. Timothy Timothy E. E. Jones, Jones, Pastor Pastor Bethlehem Missionary Bethlehem Missionary B.C., B.C., Roselle, Roselle, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Jeffrey Jeffrey Bryan, Bryan, Pastor Pastor Beulah Beulah Bible Bible Cathedral Cathedral Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Gerald Gerald Lydell Lydell Dickson, Dickson, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Calvary Calvary Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Garfield, Garfield, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Calvin Calvin McKinney, McKinney, Pastor Pastor Calvary Calvary Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Morristown, Morristown, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Jerry Jerry M. M. Carter, Carter, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Canaan Canaan B. B. C. C. of of Christ, Christ, Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Thomas Thomas D. D. Johnson, Johnson, Pastor Pastor Canaan Canaan B.C., B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Barry Barry L. L. Graham, Graham, Pastor Pastor Cathedral International., Cathedral International., Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, NJ NJ Bishop Donald Bishop Donald Hilliard, Hilliard, Pastor Pastor Charity Baptist Charity Baptist Church, Church, Bronx, Bronx, NY NY Rev. Rev. Reginald Reginald Williams, Williams, Pastor Pastor Christian Christian Love Love B.C., B.C., Irvington, Irvington, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Brandon Brandon Keith Keith Washington, Washington, Pastor Pastor Clear Clear View View Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Curtis Curtis W. W. Belle, Belle, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Community Community B.C., B.C., Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Lester Lester Taylor, Taylor, Pastor Pastor Community Community Church Church of of God, God, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Antonio Antonio Porter, Porter, Pastor Pastor

Concord Concord B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Gary Gary V. V. Simpson, Simpson, Pastor Pastor Convent Avenue Convent Avenue Baptist Baptist Church, Church, New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Cross and Cross and Crown Crown Christian Christian Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Lula Lula A. A. Baker, Baker, Pastor Pastor Ebenezer B.C. B.C. of of Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Ebenezer Rev. Rev. Preston Preston E. E. Thompson, Thompson, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Ebenezer Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Ebenezer Rev. Rev. H. H. William William Rutherford Rutherford III, III, Pastor Pastor Elizabeth, Elizabeth, NJ NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Councilwoman-At-Large Patricia Patricia Perkins-Auguste Perkins-Auguste Empire Empire Missionary Missionary Baptist Baptist Convention Convention Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Carl Carl T. T. Washington, Washington, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Evergreen Evergreen Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Palmyra, Palmyra, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Guy Guy Campbell, Campbell, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Fellowship Fellowship Missionary Missionary B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Elton Elton T. T. Byrd Byrd Pastor/Founder Pastor/Founder First First B.C. B.C. of of Lincoln Lincoln Gardens, Gardens, Somerset Somerset NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. DeForest DeForest (Buster) (Buster) Soaries, Soaries, Pastor Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church, Church, East East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, NY NY Rev. Rev. Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Young, Young, Pastor Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Kenilworth, Kenilworth, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Nathaniel Nathaniel Bullock Bullock Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Teaneck, Teaneck, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Marilyn Marilyn Monroe Monroe Harris, Harris, Pastor Pastor First First Baptist Baptist of of Jericho, Jericho, Deptford, Deptford, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Derek Derek V. V. Gaitling, Gaitling, Pastor Pastor First First Corinthian Corinthian Baptist Baptist Church, Church, NY NY Rev. Rev. Michael Michael A. A. Walrond, Walrond, Jr., Jr., Senior Senior Pastor Pastor First First Park Park Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Rufus Rufus McClendon, McClendon, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church, Church, South South Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Terry Terry Richardson, Richardson, Pastor Pastor General General Baptist Baptist Convention, Convention, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Lester Lester W. W. Taylor, Taylor, Jr., Jr., President President Good Good Neighbor Neighbor B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. George George A. A. Blackwell, Blackwell, III, III, Pastor Pastor Grace Grace B. B. C., C., Mt. Mt. Vernon, Vernon, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Franklyn Franklyn W. W. Richardson, Richardson, Pastor Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Frank Frank J. J. Blackshear, Blackshear, Pastor Pastor Harlem Congregations Harlem Congregations for for Community Community Improvement Improvement (HCCI) (HCCI) Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., President President & & CEO CEO Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. William William Derek Derek Lee, Lee, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor ItIt Is Well Living Ministries, Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, Clark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Kahlil Kahlil Carmichael, Carmichael, Pastor Pastor

Macedonia Macedonia Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Lakewood, Lakewood, NJ NJ Dr. Dr. Edward Edward D. D. Harper, Harper, Pastor Pastor Mariners’ Mariners’ Temple Temple B.C., B.C., New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Henrietta Henrietta Carter, Carter, Pastor Pastor Memorial, Memorial, B.C., B.C., New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Senior Pastor Senior Pastor Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT CT Rev. Rev. James James Logan, Logan, Pastor Pastor Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, Church, East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dana Dana Owens, Owens, Pastor Pastor Metropolitan Metropolitan B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. David David Jefferson, Jefferson, Pastor Pastor Mother Mother A.M.E. A.M.E. Zion Zion Church Church Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Malcolm Malcolm J. J. Byrd, Byrd, Pastor Pastor Mt. Mt. Neboh Neboh Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Johnnie Johnnie Green Green Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Mt. Mt. Pisgah Pisgah B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Johnny Johnny Ray Ray Youngblood, Youngblood, Pastor Pastor Mount Church, Mount Olive Olive Baptist Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Hackensack, NJ Rev. Rev. Gregory Gregory J. J. Jackson, Jackson, Pastor Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. André André W. W. Milteer, Milteer, Pastor Pastor Mt. Mt. Zion Zion AME AME Church, Church, Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. J. J. Stanley Stanley Justice, Justice, Pastor Pastor Mt. Mt. Zion Zion B.C., B.C., Westwood, Westwood, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Bernard Bernard Glee, Glee, Pastor Pastor New Beginnings New Beginnings Agape Agape NJ Christian Christian Center, Center, Freehold, Freehold, NJ Rev. Dr. Andre McGuire, Rev. Dr. Andre McGuire, Pastor Pastor New State New Garden Garden State Jurisdiction Jurisdiction COGIC NJ COGIC NJ Bishop Bishop William William Cahoon Cahoon New Hope Baptist Church, New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, Metuchen, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of New Hope Baptist Church of East East Orange, Orange, East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Vernard Vernard E. E. Hinton, Hinton, Pastor Pastor New Hope New Hope Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor Pastor New New Life Life Cathedral, Cathedral, Mt. Mt. Holly, Holly, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Eric Eric Wallace, Wallace, Pastor Pastor New Reid Temple COGIC New Reid Temple COGIC East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Bishop Bishop William William Cahoon Cahoon North Selton Selton AME AME Church, Church, North Piscataway, Piscataway, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Billips, Pastors Pastors Paradise B. C., Newark, Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Jethro Jethro James, James, Pastor Pastor

Park Ave Park Ave Christian Christian Disciples Disciples of of Christ, Christ, East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim Pilgrim B. B. C., C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Glenn Glenn Wilson, Wilson, Pastor Pastor Ruth Ruth Fellowship Fellowship Ministries, Ministries, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Tracey Tracey Brown, Brown, Pastor Pastor Shiloh Shiloh AME AME Zion Zion Church, Church, Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. John John D. D. Givens, Givens, Pastor Pastor Shiloh Shiloh B.C., B.C., New New Rochelle, Rochelle, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. DeQuincy DeQuincy M. M. Hentz, Hentz, Pastor Pastor Shiloh Shiloh B.C., B.C., Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Sheila Sheila L. L. Thorpe, Thorpe, Pastor Pastor Shiloh Shiloh B.C., B.C., Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Darell Darell Armstrong, Armstrong, Pastor Pastor St. St. Anthony Anthony Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Walter Walter L. L. DeLoatch, DeLoatch, Sr., Sr., Pastor Pastor St. St. James James AME AME Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Ronald Ronald L. L. Slaughter, Slaughter, Pastor Pastor St. St. John John Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Camden, Camden, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Silas Silas M. M. Townsend, Townsend, Pastor Pastor St. St. John John B.C., B.C., Scotch Scotch Plains, Plains, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Shawn Shawn T. T. Wallace, Wallace, Pastor Pastor St. St. Luke Luke Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Johnnie Johnnie McCann, McCann, Pastor Pastor St St Luke Luke B.C., B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Kenneth Kenneth D.R. D.R. Clayton, Clayton, Pastor Pastor St. St. Mark Mark Missionary Missionary B.C., B.C., Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NY Rev. Rev. Owen Owen E. E. Williams, Williams, Pastor Pastor St. St. Matthew Matthew AME AME Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Melvin Melvin E. E. Wilson, Wilson, Pastor Pastor St. St. Paul Paul Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Montclair, Montclair, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Bernadette Bernadette Glover, Glover, Pastor Pastor St. St. Paul Paul Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Red Red Bank, Bank, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Alexander Alexander Brown, Brown, Pastor Pastor St. St. Paul Paul Community Community B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Rev. David David K. K. Brawley, Brawley, Pastor Pastor Tabernacle Tabernacle B.C., B.C., Burlington, Burlington, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Cory Cory L. L. Jones, Jones, Pastor Pastor The The New New Hope Hope B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Joe Joe Carter, Carter, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Union Union Baptist Baptist Temple,, Temple,, Bridgeton, Bridgeton, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Albert Albert L. L. Morgan, Morgan, Pastor Pastor United United Fellowship Fellowship B.C., B.C., Asbury Asbury Park, Park, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. James James H. H. Brown, Brown, Sr., Sr., Pastor Pastor Walker Walker Memorial Memorial B.C. B.C. Bronx, Bronx, NY NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. J. J. Albert Albert Bush Bush Sr., Sr., Pastor Pastor Welcome Welcome Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Elijah Elijah C. C. Williams, Williams, Pastor Pastor World Gospel Gospel Music Music Assoc., Assoc., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ World Dr. Dr. Albert Albert Lewis, Lewis, Founder Founder

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

REV. DR. CORNELL EDMONDS GUEST EDITORIAL

Rev. Edmonds is pastor of The Church of the Covenant, E. 42nd Street NYC across from the United Nations.

Something Has to Change

s clergy, I think on the perils of worshipping two masters. That lesson seems lost on segments of today’s music industry. Especially around music offerings peddled to our young people. Our community’s values are under assault by the very music it hears and watches. Times existed when we had much more control over what reached the airwaves and came out in print. Today, few Black-owned media companies remain. Thus, the master of profit is winning out over the master of values at the expense of our community’s soul. Kudos to Adrian Council for his powerful May/June 2021, editorial, “Saving Our Community: What’s Going On.” His message, a call to action by one witnessing their community defiled. A demand for positive change in an industry that co-opts the talents and values of young people of color, in the interests of profit. Jesus said, “It’s not what enters into the mouth that defiles the person, but what proceeds out of the mouth,” His words aptly describe some of the lyrics and videos hitting the airwaves in the name of “artistic expression.” Noted scholar Dr. Carter G. Woodson, wrote in The Mis-Education of the Negro: If you can control a man’s thinking you do not have to worry about his action. When you determine what a man shall think you do not have to concern yourself about what he will do. If you make a man feel that he is inferior, you do not have to compel him to accept an inferior status, for he will seek it himself. If you make a man think that he is justly an outcast, you do not have to order him to the back door. He will go without being told; and if there is no back door, his very nature will demand one.

Has the mind of the Black community been so negatively impacted by valueless corporate greed that the music being offered, in and by our community, reflect, little more than a mental race to the ‘back door’ by folk enmeshed in inferior status? Something has to change. We must become intentionally aspirational in the most positive of ways. Re-educate our communities about its positive history, ‘cultural narrative,’ and positive future. When our aspirations are positive, it is reflected in our music. That’s why Motown endures as

The Positive Community Summer 2021

a positive force long after many artists ceased recording. The soundtracks of earlier times—whether Sam Cooke’s, “A Change Is Gonna Come,” James Brown’s “Say It Loud,” Aretha Franklin’s “Respect,” or Marvin Gaye’s “Save the Children” from the What’s Going On album—reflected our community’s aspirations. Today we are bombarded with music containing vulgar language, sexual innuendo, or threats of violence (and are) absent (of) any positive aspiration. Is that what we’ve become? Consider Kashe’ Quest, the two-year-old of African American and Indian descent, youngest member of MENSA, whose father, Devon, was born in Harlem. Or think on Zaila Avant-garde, the fourteen-year-old, first African American to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee in its 93-year history, a talented basketball prospect and a Guinness World Record holder. Even in their youth, they tell a very different story of who we are and how far we’ve come. They embody the infinite promise that springs forth from positive aspiration. They should not have to live out their dreams in the midst of soundtracks that debase and denigrate young Black girls and boys, for obscene profit and self-centered “artistic expression.” If a change is gonna come, we must hold both the corporations and artists accountable. Then shout from the high heavens, “I’m Black and I’m proud,” because Kashe’ and Zaila are the rule rather than the exception of a proud people. Then, demand the R-E-S-P-E-C-T worthy of a people who have come this far by faith. Finally, unapologetically pursue positive aspirations in our music, businesses, communities, and culture because we must right the ship in order to save the children and their future. www.thepositivecommunity.com

NYSCAS Nursing Students Volunteer At Touro COVID-19 Vaccination Site Enthusiastic Future Nurses Gain Practical Experience Guiding and Monitoring Patients

Dr. Patricia Burke, director of the undergraduate nursing program at NYSCAS with student volunteers

ouro College recently held several events to help the larger Touro community get vaccinated against COVID-19 at different locations in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island. The effort was the result of a collaboration between Touro College of Pharmacy, Touro School of Health Sciences Nursing Program, the NYSCAS Nursing Program, and Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. The inaugural class of associate degree nursing students at NYSCAS enthusiastically answered the call to volunteer at one of Touro’s vaccination sites. Five students from the class made up the volunteer group. To prepare for the day, students completed an online certificate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Assigned to specific tasks such as checking paperwork, assisting with stocking supplies for the vaccinations, guiding people through the process, and observing them after the vaccination, the students worked calmly and efficiently. “The response to our call to volunteer was overwhelming,” said Dr. Patricia Burke, director of the undergraduate nursing program at NYSCAS. “The initial call was for two student volunteers, and out of a class of 32, five were chosen. These students made us ‘Touro

The Positive Community Summer 2021

Proud’ for their professionalism and dedicated service to the community.” One of the volunteers, Anthony Pavella, a first-year student at NYSCAS said, “It was an amazing experience to work side by side with Dr. Burke, and watch her vaccinate some of the people. At first, we had to register and identify each person correctly,” he said. “After they received their vaccine, they sat for 15 minutes, so that we could observe them in case they had any adverse effects. Then, they went about their day. Some people were nervous, but with the support of the NYSCAS nursing students, everyone received their vaccine.” Pavella has worked in healthcare administration for over seven years and began his education at NYSCAS in the fall of 2020. “It has been a great experience so far,” he said. “The faculty is so dedicated. They truly love to mentor their students and help them strive for their best.” Marini Jongoy, another NYSCAS student enrolled in the associate degree in nursing program, currently works as a certified medical assistant. “I was in charge of monitoring people for adverse effects after the vaccination was administered. I really enjoyed it and I learned a lot from this experience. I am definitely planning to volunteer again when people return for a second dose of vaccine.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

MORE DEGREE OPTIONS.

MORE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES. What you’ll find at Touro NYSCAS: Faculty who offer 1-on-1 career support to help you achieve your goals Online or in-person. Day, evening, and weekend classes. You decide! 40+ undergrad programs in health sciences, education, business, and more Save time and money with direct-to-grad-school options A brighter future is within reach. Let us show you the way.

Virtual OPEN HOUSE on July 29th! Scan/click the QR code to RSVP:

Taquilla V. Class of 2021 B.A. in Social Science

NYSCAS.Touro.edu | 212.463.0400 x55500 Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, visit www.touro.edu Any references to location, college experience and/or in-person opportunities herein are subject to change based on governmental or administrative directives.

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

Got My Mind Set on Freedom

have “freedom” on the brain. This time of the year reminds me of the costs of liberty. Memorial Day and Juneteenth cause us to recall those that gave their lives and sacrificed much for our freedom. We then round it out by celebrating the nation’s independence on July Fourth. To say that persons of color have suffered greatly to achieve freedom is a gross understatement. But there seems to be an awakening occurring within our nation regarding the impact of systemic racism upon our rights to simply “be”. For this I am grateful! As this victory unfolds, let’s take this awakening further. Are you exercising your freedoms to live well, whole, and free in every way—to be healed? Healthfully speaking, we must make the choice to liberate ourselves from bad habits that weigh us down. As the Fitness Doctor and a life-long exercise enthusiast, I believe mindful daily physical activity is essential to bodily health, mental well-being, and being made whole. Incorporating exercise into your schedule will benefit you in untold ways—weight loss, improved flexibility and stamina, and greatly reducing the appearance or symptoms of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes. People who exercise are more joyful, heart-healthy, and younger in attitude and appearance—almost aging in reverse! Improved health is achievable. Healing is attainable! • Get your physician’s approval before starting an exercise plan. • Exercise regularly, slowly building in intensity. Take it slow. • Put a praise on it! Thank God for the knowledge of how to be healed and include meditation as part of your daily activity. • Work smart! Get a certified personal trainer to take your workout to the next level.

The Positive Community Summer 2021

• Eat clean! Include lots of colorful vegetables and lean proteins. Don’t undo all of your hard work with empty calories and excess sugar. If you only knew how much exercise it takes to burn off those 500-calorie coffees! • Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily! When dehydrated, you may crave unhealthy foods. This affects your skin, and bodily processes such as the digestive and adrenal systems do not work as well. • Get plenty of rest! Your body also craves unhealthy foods when you are sleep deprived. Health professionals believe adults need 7–8 hours of sleep per night. While you rest, your body is hard at work releasing toxins. • It is never too late to improve your health. It is God’s plan for you to live an abundant life— healed, whole, and free from chronic disease and pain. • The sooner you start, the better. Let’s usher in the healing! Live well and Prosper!

Fitness training is available through the Live Well Church FITCARE program, offered at the Fitness Doctor Studio in Somerset, New Jersey. Please call Karen Beasley at 732-912-4435 to schedule a free assessment.

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

Health care Health Health care care Health care as low as $0. as as low low as as $0. $0. as Including low as $0. vision

Cuidado de la Cuidado Cuidado de de la Cuidado de la la salud desde $0. salud salud desde desde $0. $0. salud desde $0. Incluyendo beneficios de la

Choose Amerigroup Choose Choose Amerigroup Amerigroup Choose Amerigroup for your whole family. for foryour yourwhole family. whole family. for your whole family.

Elija a Amerigroup para Elija Elija a a Amerigroup Amerigroup para para Elija toda a Amerigroup para su familia. toda todasu familia. su familia. toda su familia.

Including Includingvision vision Including vision and dental. and dental. and dental. and dental.

Incluyendo Incluyendobeneficios beneficiosde de lala Incluyendo beneficios de la vista y dentales. vista vistayy ydentales. dentales. vista dentales.

www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj www.myamerigroup.com/nj 1024303NJIENAGP 10 20 OMHC# 078-19-50

1024303NJIENAGP 1024303NJIENAGP 1010 2020 OMHC# OMHC# 078-19-50 078-19-50 1024303NJIENAGP 10 20 OMHC# 078-19-50

WORLD’S BEST HOSPITALS 2021

One of the World’s

Best Hospitals

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center It’s one thing to say that you are world renowned, and it’s quite another to be recognized as world renowned, for three years in a row. Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is a destination for heart and lung transplant patients. Premier hospitals from around the country send Newark Beth Israel their most complex cases, such as dual heart and kidney transplant. Our cardiac program has been advancing research and perfecting innovative procedures. Our cancer program is a component of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. And our Children’s Hospital of New Jersey is known for caring for the most serious pediatric cases. And now, the world knows.

rwjbh.org/newarkbeth

FAST FACTS ABOUT

CARDIAC STRESS TESTS MONITORING YOUR HEART WHILE YOU EXERCISE IS SAFE AND CAN GIVE YOUR DOCTORS IMPORTANT INFORMATION.

STRESS TESTS ARE PRESCRIBED WHEN SYMPTOMS EXIST.

THERE’S NO NEED TO BE AFRAID OF A STRESS TEST.

Unlike a colonoscopy or mammography, there’s no recommended age for a person to begin having stress tests. “People need a stress test if they’re having symptoms, usually chest pain or shortness of breath with activity, or unexplained passing out,” says Sergio Waxman, MD, MBA, Chair of Cardiology, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. “In the absence of symptoms, you might also want to do a stress test if you have a family history of cardiac disease, or as a precautionary measure if you are considering starting an exercise program.”

“It’s a simple, cost-effective and low risk procedure,” says Dr. Waxman. “A stress test is a way to detect heart disease while the body is in motion. It lets us see how the heart acts and how blood flows through the body while it’s moving.” THERE ARE DIFFERENT KINDS OF STRESS TESTS. The most common is the exercise stress test as described in “What Happens During an Exercise Stress Test?” below. Depending on your risk factors, your physician may prescribe a nuclear stress

test, which is the same as an exercise stress test, except that a safe radioactive dye is injected and an imaging machine is used to take pictures. If for some reason you can’t handle the physical activity of a stress test, your doctor can prescribe a medication that will mimic the effects of exercise. To connect with one of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s cardiology specialists, call 973-926-7852 or visit rwjbh.org/heart

WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN EXERCISE STRESS TEST? • Most stress tests are done in a cardiologist’s office. Patients should wear comfortable clothes and refrain from eating or smoking for four hours in advance. • The patient is connected to heartmonitoring equipment, then walks on a treadmill under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare professional. • At first, the pace is a gentle 1.7 miles per hour. The pace will gradually be increased to a brisk walk or light jog. • At the same time, the incline of the treadmill is increased by two degrees every three minutes. It begins at 10 degrees and progresses to 16 degrees. • The patient’s heart rate, blood pressure and breathing are monitored throughout the test, which can last up to 15 minutes. The patient can stop at any time if needed. • After the stress test, the patient will be observed for five minutes during cooldown.

rwjbh.org/newarkbeth

The Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series offers a diverse lineup of performers who will take center stage throughout our historic Parks System. Pack a blanket, enjoy the cool evening breeze, and dance to the sounds of summer.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr Essex County Executive

LIVE FREE CONCERTS

2021

HOSTED BY:

ESSEX COUNT Y PA R K S

SUMMER MUSIC F R E E FA M I LY F U N

ESSEX COUNTY BROOKDALE PARK

LIVE AT YOUR LOCAL ESSEX COUNTY PARK

All performances begin at 7:30pm

All performances begin at 7pm

STONEFLOWER SOUL: A SANTANA TRIBUTE Thursday, August 12

JERSEY SOUND Monday, August 9 Yanticaw Park, Nutley

EAGLEMANIA Friday, August 13

SYMPHONICS Tuesday, August 10 Verona Park, Verona

SOUL CRUISERS: A MOTOWN TRIBUTE Thursday, August 19 NEW POWER SOUL: CLASSIC ROCK Friday, August 20 A NIGHT OF DOO-WOP WITH THE CAPRIS Friday, August 27

FIREWORKS SPECTACULARS All performances begin at 7:30pm

THE INFERNOS Thursday, July 1 (Rain date: July 2) Brookdale Park, Bloomfield SMOOTH Wednesday, August 11 Weequahic Park, Newark NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Thursday, August 26 Branch Brook Park, Newark

BRADFORD HAYES Monday, August 16 Veterans Memorial Park, Newark DAVID CEDENO ORCHESTRA Tuesday, August 17 Riverbank Park, Newark GORDON JAMES Wednesday, August 18 Watsessing Park, Bloomfield/East Orange LAYONNE HOLMES Monday, August 23 Ivy Hill Park, Newark

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive the Board of County Commissioners, and the Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs PUTTING ESSEX COUNTY FIRST

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Wayne L. Richardson, President Carlos M. Pomares, Vice President Tyshammie L. Cooper Leonard M. Luciano Brendan W. Gill Robert Mercado Romaine Graham Patricia Sebold Rufus I. Johnson

JULIAN & DOMINIQUE Monday, August 30 Cedar Grove Park, Cedar Grove SWINGMAN & THE MISFIT MUTTS Tuesday, August 31 Grover Cleveland Park, Caldwell NANNY ASSIS, BRAZILIAN EXPERIENCE Wednesday, September 1 Independence Park, Newark BEGINNINGS: A CHICAGO TRIBUTE Thursday, September 2 Eagle Rock Reservation, West Orange

FESTIVALS IVY HILL FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Saturday, August 21 (Rain date: August 22) 12pm – 8pm Ivy Hill Park, Newark

K. BROWN EXPRESS Tuesday, August 24 Vailsburg Park, Newark

HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL AND A SPLASH OF CARIBBEAN Saturday, September 11 11am – 8pm Weequahic Park, Newark

LATIN SPLENDOR Wednesday, August 25 Riverfront Park, Newark

These events are co-sponsored by the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs. Concert schedule is subject to change. Please check essexcountyparks.org for updates and cancellations.

OUR SPONSORS: OUR SPONSORS: OUR SPONSORS: OUR SPONSORS:

made po made possible with funds made possible with funds

Photo: Raymond Hagans

Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo (behind podium) at the statue unveiling and ribbon-cutting surrounded by state and county elected officials including NJ Gov. Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver

Essex County Martin Luther King, Jr.

Justice Building

$77M Newark Edifice Honors MLK

top an 8-foot granite pedestal, the 14-foot bronze statue of America’s “drum major for justice,” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., makes a powerful statement welcoming visitors to the new $77 million Essex County Martin Luther King, Jr. Justice Building on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Newark, NJ. “The only thing you could call it is Dr. Martin Luther King,” said Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo. While activists and pundits ponder the meaning of justice, multiple elected officials said naming the building in honor of King is fitting. The engraving on the granite base quotes King: “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools. But I know somehow, that only when it is dark enough, can you see the stars. I have decided to stick with love, hate is too great a burden to bear. Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?” The significance is lost on no one. New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said the building’s size, use of space, and technolwww.thepositivecommunity.com

ogy show respect for people who need to use the courts. “They’ll be in awe of its beauty, of its grandeur; and (it’s) inspired by the namesake, the giant, whose very name itself evokes thoughts of justice, of fairness, of equality—of which every justice system has at its core,” said Rabner. Gov. Phil Murphy said naming the building after King was a step in the direction of gaining equality. Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver said King “would be proud” of the project. A bronze bust of the late U.S. Congressman John Lewis, who died last year, sits on the first floor of the new building. Jay Warren sculpted the new statue, the Lewis bust, and a smaller King statue now placed at the back of the new building. Comito Associates, a Newark-based engineering company, designed the building; Dobco Inc., from Wayne, built it. Lambertville-based Joseph Jingoli and Son, Inc. handled construction management and inspection services. The project was funded through Essex County’s capital budget. Construction started in May 2020 and was completed in 13 months. — JNW Summer 2021 The Positive Community

L–R: US Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Joe DiVincenzo, Gov. Murphy, and Bill Payne

Hon. Shelia Oliver

NJ Gov. Phil Murphy

The Positive Community Summer 2021

NJ State Democratic Committee Chairman Hon. Leroy Jones, Jr.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Raymond Hagans

L–R: Maurice Brown, Essex County Sheriff Amando B. Fontoura, Rev. Joe Carter, and First Lady Monica Carter

L–R: Shelia Oliver speaks with Al Bundy and Edythe M. Abdulla, president Essex County College

www.thepositivecommunity.com

U.S.Representative Donald Payne Jr.

Rev. Joe Carter, of The New Hope Baptist Church in Newark delivers invocation prayer

L–R: Adrian Council with Hon. Nia Gill and Hon. Joe DiVincenzo Jr

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

Simple Pleasures for a Great Cause Elizabeth, NJ Police Director Earl J. Graves and City Council President Pat Perkins-August; Kean University President Lamont Repollet, Ed.D; and Councilman at-Large Manny Grova, Jr., City of Elizabeth, NJ.

Photo: Karen Waters

he COVID-19 recovery began a little more than a year after the near complete shutdown of the entire country. In April 2021, small, careful bursts of normal interactions began happening. One of those took place on Thursday, April 29 at the Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth, NJ, where Elizabeth, NJ Council President Patricia Perkins-Auguste hosted her 8th Annual Golf Classic. The event took place on a beautiful, spring day perfect for connecting and golfing.

Supporters included former NJ State Senator Ray Lesniak; Assemblyman Jamel Holley; Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage; Elizabeth Councilman Manny Grova Jr; Jiles Ship, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement; Ken University Pre4sident Lamont Repollet; Bill Jones, Elizabeth Housing Authority; Errol Blake; CPA Walter Frye; Santiago Perez, GOYA Foods; Director Pat Byrnes, Elizabeth Fire Department; Elizabeth Police Director Earl Graves; and members of the EMT. — TPC Staff

Catering for all Occasions: • Weddings •Church Events •General Meetings •Parties •Full Service Catering

• Outdoor Events/Cookouts •Bar-B-Ques •Fish Fry’s •Thanksgiving Celebrations •Christmas Parties

Kevin Smallwood “Caterer to the Stars”

Mother’s Day Celebration Two Fish Five Loaves.com Sunday May 8, 2022 908.227.9065 •Amazing Food •Great Entertainment 20

The Positive Community Summer 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Monoclonal Antibody Therapy is most effective Monoclonal is most effective within the firstAntibody 5 days ofTherapy symptoms within thecases, first 5 up days (in some to of 10 symptoms days)—so you must act fast: (in some cases, up to 10 days)—so you must act fast: G E T T E S T E D . G E T T R E AT E D . G E T B E T T E R . G E T T E S T E D . G E T T R E AT E D . G E T B E T T E R . Single, one-hour infusion treatment Single, one-hour infusion treatment Reduces severe complications and hospitalizations by 70% Reduces severe complications and hospitalizations by 70% Shortens the duration of symptoms by up to 4 days Shortens the duration of symptoms by up to 4 days Most people feel significantly better in as little as 48 hours Most people feel significantly better in as little as 48 hours Monoclonal antibody therapy is available at no cost Monoclonal antibodyortherapy is have available at no cost to patients, whether not they insurance. to patients, whether or not they have insurance.

*Medical conditions that place people at higher risk for COVID-19 complications: age 65 and older, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease, immune *Medical conditions that place people at higher foraCOVID-19 ageName 65 and disorders, immune-suppressive treatment. Thisrisk is not completecomplications: list. Contact Holy forolder, morediabetes, information. obesity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, COPD, asthma, chronic kidney disease, immune disorders, immune-suppressive treatment. This is not a complete list. Contact Holy Name for more information.

To schedule a COVID-19 test To schedule a COVID-19 test call 201-833-3313 call 201-833-3313 To be evaluated for treatment To be evaluated for treatment call 201-833-3495 call 201-833-3495 No prescription is needed. No prescription is needed.

Learn more at Learn more at HolyName.org/AntibodyTreatment HolyName.org/AntibodyTreatment

calendar of key events

UPDATES: www.harlemweek.com | INQUIRIES: 212-862-7200

FRI. aug. 6th

SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

SAT. aug. 7th

GREAT JAZZ ON THE GREAT HILL

SUN. aug. 8th THU. aug. 12th

ADAM CLAYTON POWELL, JR. STATE OFFICE BUILDING DEMYSTIFYING TECHNOLOGY | SENIOR CITIZENS HAT FASHION SHOW | HEALTH SERVICES |

CENTRAL PARK WEST & 106TH ST

PRESENTED BY JAZZMOBILE & THE CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY

ALYSON WILLIAMS | ALLAN HARRIS | CAMILLE THURMAN & THE DARRELL GREEN QUARTET | THE DIZZY GILLESPIE BIG BAND

"A GREAT DAY IN HARLEM

U.S. GRANT MEMORIAL

CONCERT UNDER THE STARS: A SALUTE TO "A SUMMER OF SOUL”

HARLEM SUMMERSTAGE

THE PLAZA - ADAM CLAYTON POWELL, JR. STATE OFFICE BUILDING

UPTOWN NIGHT MARKET

UNDER THE 12TH AVE. VIADUCT - W. 125TH - 135TH STREET

FRI. aug. 13th

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

sat. aug. 14th

"summer in the city"

EAST RIVER PLAZA

ENJOY CLASSIC, FAMILY-FRIENDLY FILMS

W. 135TH ST. ST. NICHOLAS T0 MALCOLM X BLVD

CELEBRITY MUSIC PERFORMANCES | JOINT’S R JUMPIN’ | INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

sun. aug. 15th

"HARLEM DAY"

W. 135TH ST. ST. NICHOLAS T0 MALCOLM X BLVD

SALUTING CECILY TYSON, BILLY TAYLOR’S 100TH ANNIVERSARY, SUNDAE SERMON | EXHIBITORS & VENDORS

Carver Bank’s

Michael T. Pugh

The The Problem Problem Solver Solver with with a a Focus Focus on on Small Small Businesses Businesses

By Glenda Cadogan By Glenda Cadogan financial institution and a college—Carver Federal financial institution and a college—Carver Federal Saving Bank and Medgar Evers College (MEC), their Saving Bank and Medgar Evers College (MEC), their missions intersect at critical points, especially in the missions intersect at critical points, especially in the area of economic empowerment for communities of color. area of economic empowerment for communities of color. So, it was a seminal moment when President Dr. Patricia So, it was a seminal moment when President Dr. Patricia Ramsey conferred the coveted honorary Doctor of Humane Ramsey conferred the coveted honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree on Michael T. Pugh, president and CEO of Letters degree on Michael T. Pugh, president and CEO of Carver Federal Savings Bank, the largest African AmericanCarver Federal Savings Bank, the largest African Americanoperated bank in the United States. “It was an honor for operated bank in the United States. “It was an honor for me to be recognized by such an historic institution in our me to be recognized by such an historic institution in our community with footprints across the country,” said Pugh. community with footprints across the country,” said Pugh. Admitting that “Dr. Pugh” has a nice rhythm to it and makes Admitting that “Dr. Pugh” has a nice rhythm to it and makes him smile, he quickly added that he is careful not to take him smile, he quickly added that he is careful not to take himself too seriously. And on the off chance that he does, himself too seriously. And on the off chance that he does, he is quickly brought back to balance when he arrives home he is quickly brought back to balance when he arrives home and his list of household responsibilities is unchanged. and his list of household responsibilities is unchanged. Last year, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Last year, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Carver positioned itself as financial first responders for Carver positioned itself as financial first responders for the communities it serves. “We have seen a significant the communities it serves. “We have seen a significant amount of small businesses negatively impacted by the amount of small businesses negatively impacted by the pandemic,” Pugh said. “Reports show that 41 percent of pandemic,” Pugh said. “Reports show that 41 percent of Black and Brown businesses will, or have closed as a result of Black and Brown businesses will, or have closed as a result of this crisis.” According to Pugh, however, a larger systemic this crisis.” According to Pugh, however, a larger systemic issue is that women are the fastest growing segment of issue is that women are the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs in the country and Black women come entrepreneurs in the country and Black women come second among them. second among them. Yet, MWBEs are the last in income generation from their Yet, MWBEs are the last in income generation from their businesses. “If you couple these two critical points, what it businesses. “If you couple these two critical points, what it says is that our businesses have been and are starved for says is that our businesses have been and are starved for capital and struggle to navigate through difficult times capital and struggle to navigate through difficult times because of that shortfall.” It is said, “When times get tough, because of that shortfall.” It is said, “When times get tough, the tough get going.” In this pandemic era, Carver Bank the tough get going.” In this pandemic era, Carver Bank

Today, Today, with with seven seven branches branches located located in in Harlem, Harlem, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, and and Queens, Queens, Carver Carver continues continues its its laser laser focus focus on on minority minority and and women-owned women-owned businesses businesses and and champions champions their their growth growth and and sustainability. sustainability. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Regina Fleming Photography Regina Fleming Photography

Continued on next page Summer 2021 The Positive Community

CARVER

Continued from previous page

Carver is working and near ready to roll out a loan fund program focusing on small business owners. One of the key components of this program looks for ways to support small businesses without relying completely on traditional credit scoring. has been going the distance for communities of color as evidenced by its participation in the Federal Payroll Protection Program (PPP). Keeping true to his reputation as chief problem solver, Pugh marshaled his team to create unique opportunities for the communities they serve. “We feel it’s our responsibility as not just a financial institution but a US designated community development institution—to help small businesses in terms of access to capital and resources.” As “financial first responders” Carver put in place robust partnerships such as the one with MBE Capital, a minority financial services firm. Together they provided 16,000 payroll protection loans across the country. “We know a significant portion of those loans truly helped women and minority entrepreneurs navigate through this pandemic,” said Pugh. At the local level, partnerships with a woman owned FinTech firm generated and supported $45 million in PPP loans in the greater NYC area. In addition, 5,000 jobs were preserved through the access to capital provided by the bank. In moving forward, Carver is working and near ready to roll out a loan fund program focusing on small business owners. One of the key components of this program looks for ways to support small businesses without relying completely on traditional credit scoring. “We know that 40 million Americans have no credit or an insufficient credit score to qualify for traditional bank financing. However, the FICO does not necessarily speak to the character of the borrower. I think there is a real way to develop this program to provide small business loans at a local level in the areas of our branches in Harlem, Brooklyn, and Queens,” Pugh explained. This program should be up and running in the next few months. To fully appreciate the Carver mission, it’s important to take a peek into the history of the institution that started back in 1948. Not only was the prevailing culture at the time one of, “if you’re Black, stay back,” it was doubly so when it came to borrowing from financial institutions. Your skin color trumped the size of your bank account no matter how much it was and the big banks weren’t lending money to anyone in Harlem, even the middle class. The need for home and business loans was real, however. Instead of rolling over, some local civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and faith leaders came together and formed their own bank.

The Positive Community Summer 2021

Named for contemporary era scientist George Washington Carver, the first branch opened in Harlem in 1949. Today, with seven branches located in Harlem, Brooklyn, and Queens, Carver continues its laser focus on minority and women-owned businesses and champions their growth and sustainability. In addition to the brick-and-mortar branches, Carver has account opening capacity through Carverbank. com in nine states from Massachusetts to Virginia. With an asset base of $620 million, Carver has earned its label as a community development financial institution (CDFI)—a designation made by the US Department of Treasury that requires at least 60 percent of every dollar on deposit be reinvested in the community served. “I am proud that at Carver we have exceeded this minimum requirement and today 80 cents of every dollar we have in deposits is reinvested in the community,” stated Pugh. While he is no economist, as a banker with 30 years of experience, Pugh has seen many financial cycles. From that vantage point, he sees a slow but steady recovery for the pandemic. “But Black and Brown businesses will continue to have challenges because the issues for them have not really changed, which is the need for more support and capital. In most cases these small businesses rely heavily on brick and mortar storefronts and do not have the technology to support their businesses,” he explained. “As a bastion for Black economic empowerment, Carver Bank,” said its president, “will continue to champion the cause of minority and women-owned small businesses. There is no greater place to be than with an organization that stands behind what it believes,” he said. “And we believe in community.” With a steady increase in customers at branches and on digital platforms, it is clear the community believes in Carver. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Small Businesses are the Backbone of Our Communities. As your community bank, Carver remains committed to helping small businesses in NYC grow and succeed, moving beyond the challenges of this past year. Carver has funded approximately $23 million in loans to Minority- and Women- Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) through public and private partnerships like the MTA Small Business Mentorship Program. Carver is an approved Small Business Administration (SBA) lender, offering a variety of loan options to small and minority-owned businesses. Our participation in the Paycheck Protection Program resulted in the preservation of more than 5,000 jobs and provided $56 million in access to capital for small businesses in the communities we serve. Carver celebrates minority business entrepreneurs. For more than 72 years our discipline, knowledge and social responsibility have remained strong pillars of the bank. Approximately 80 cents of every dollar is deposited back into our communities fueling business growth, job creation and development. We invite you to visit our new website at carverbank.com, stop into one of our branches, or give us a call to learn more.

Michael T. Pugh

President and Chief Executive Officer

B A N K I N G W I T H C A R V E R . IT’S THE RIGHT THING TO DO. BEDFORD STUYVESANT @CarverBankNYC

•

CROWN HEIGHTS

•

FLATBUSH

carverbank.com

•

FORT GREENE

•

HARLEM

855.217.3373

•

ST. ALBANS

Money

business, finance + work

Pioneering Executive Sylvia L. White Joins Bridge Philanthropic Consulting

ylvia L. White has joined Bridge Philanthropic Consulting as executive vice president and chief operating officer. Sylvia will oversee the day-to-day operations of Bridge Philanthropic Consulting, the country’s largest African-American-owned, full-service fundraising and social justice firm. “We are thrilled to chart the path forward with Sylvia White, one of the country’s leading non-profit executives. Sylvia will be key to the growth of our company with her proven record of success in partnering with the others to sustain excellence in operations, infrastructure, and philanthropy,” said Dwayne Ashley, founder and CEO of Bridge Philanthropic Consulting. Prior to this appointment, Ms. White served as the deputy executive director at Harlem Hospital Center. In this capacity, she was responsible for forwarding the agenda of the hospital throughout the Institution and the community. She worked closely with hospital leadership to provide senior-level support to top decisionmakers and managers for a wide range of diverse projects. "When the CEO, Dwayne Ashley, offered me the opportunity to join the leadership team at Bridge Philanthropic Consulting, I quickly accepted with enthusiasm. BPC's proven accomplishments serving founda-

The Positive Community Summer 2021

tions, corporations, non-profit organizations, and individuals with social justice missions closely aligns with my deep commitment to community service. It is a privilege to join a team who gives so much." A seasoned executive with substantial experience in operations, principal and major gifts, board development, and fund-raising management, Sylvia White has worked directly with or managed teams in every area of operations, construction, and development, including major gifts, corporate and foundation relations, public sector, annual giving, stewardship, systems, and research, among others. Ms. White is a sought-after advisor and mentor in the business, nonprofit, and fundraising sectors. In this capacity, she has successfully developed key exter-

nal alliances, cultivated major donor prospects, designed fundraising programs, and events. Through her collaboration with executive leadership and top-level donors, she managed multi-million dollar campaigns. She has published articles in the New York University College of Dentistry’s Global Health Nexus and The Positive Community magazine. She has also co-authored several presentations for national conferences. Ms. White is deeply devoted to community service and is a former chair of the NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch Health Committee. A recipient of many awards for civic and community service, she served as a volunteer for The Harlem Arts Alliance, The Hope Center, The Harlem Renaissance Five Mile Race, Volunteers in Service to America, Literacy Volunteers, and Prison Fellowship. Ms. White earned her undergraduate degree from Rutgers College in New Brunswick, NJ and Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Baruch College of the City University of New York. Her postgraduate work includes a certificate in Business Administration from New York University. Ms. White serves on the Board of Directors and is a proud member of The Harlem Writers Guild, the oldest continuously operating Black writers workshop in the United States. — TPC Staff www.thepositivecommunity.com

Education the art + science of learning

Dr. Patricia Ramsey First Woman President of Medgar Evers College

istinguished as a “National Role Model” by Minority Access, Inc., Dr. Patricia. Ramsey, a leader and a scholar with a deep commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference, took the reins of Medgar Evers College as president in March 2020. She comes to Medgar Evers College from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), where she served as senior executive fellow. Her perspective is unique and experience, solid. She received both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). During her career, President Ramsey has served in highlevel positions at four HBCUs—Lincoln University as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, and Bowie State University as a tenured full professor, provost, interim president, and chair of the Department of Natural Sciences. An experienced strategist and action-oriented leader, Dr. Ramsey negotiated a $1.3 million award at Norfolk State. With a formidable talent for swiftly assessing the situation and developing a plan of action, she created the infrastructure that resulted in $10 million in grants and contracts in less than two years at Shaw University. With experience in Europe and Africa, her view is global. “Social justice is in the DNA of Medgar Evers College, and the pandemic exacerbated these issues,” President Ramsey replied when we asked about her experience at Medgar Evers during the COVID-19 shutdown. “We are an institution that grew out of the community’s struggle for a senior college in Central Brooklyn, and therefore, the college and the community are inextricably linked. Our community was one of the hardest hit during the pandemic, and since most of our students hail from the borough of Brooklyn, our students were greatly impacted,” she continued. “The food pantry at Medgar Evers College, for example, saw increased demand for services. True to our mission, we have staff members who risked their own health and safety to take bags of food to the homes of our students in need. I commend them for that.” With a Master of Science in Botany from Howard University, a Master of Arts in Biology from Harvard www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dr. Patricia Ramsey

University, and a Ph.D. in Biology from Georgetown University, biology is clearly her wheelhouse. Ramsey has a research interest in the biological activity of plants used in folklore. She has collected 110 species of agave in the Sonoran Desert, and traveled a 450-mile span of highway collecting sapium sebiferum (popcorn tree) leaves in the southeastern United States. Dr. Ramsey received her undergraduate degree from Norfolk State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology Education. She completed executive leadership programs in AASCU’s Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI), Harvard’s Institute for Educational Management (IEM), and the CIVIC Leadership Institute. Though she has the distinction of being the first female president of the college, Dr. Ramsey firmly states, “As president of Medgar Evers College, I’m not focused on being the first female president, but on comprehensively providing the best education we can for the success of our students and their families. It is my vision that through accountability, continuous improvement, community engagement, equity, sustainability, and student success (A.C.C.E.S.S.), Medgar Evers College will become a model of social justice for this nation. I have no doubt that working together with intentionality, there is no limit to what we can achieve.” Dr. Ramsey is married to Dr. Roscoe Ramsey Jr., a physician and ordained minister. They have three adult children and two grandchildren. — TPC Staff Summer 2021 The Positive Community

B:5.25" T:3.4" S:2.4"

SATURDAYS 11:00 AM

FREE CONFERENCE CALL.COM

ONE LINE 727-731-1201

Here for you. Now and always. B:8.25"

T:4.5"

S:3.5"

HorizonBlue.com Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2021 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105. ®

The Positive Community Summer 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

HAVE FAITH IN LEADERSHIP Get a Masters in Organizational Leadership that’s grounded in faith. 95% of our students get financial aid, so apply now and become a leader with a higher calling.

E N R O L L N OW AT N YAC K . E D U

The original Isley Brothers: L–R: Kelly, Chris, Ernie, Rudolph, Marvin and Ronald.

Photo: Debi Jackson

Isley Brothers Honored with Street Namings

he Grammy-winning Isley Brothers-—Ronald and Ernie, returned to the place where much of their early success was formed — Bergen County, New Jersey. Ronald lived with his family on Van Arsdale Place in Teaneck. Ernie and his family lived nearby on Liberty Road in Englewood. On Thursday June 24, in two separate street naming events about two hours apart, the brothers were honored

The Positive Community Summer 2021

to have the streets where they lived named Isley Brothers Way. In the 1960s, the group put Teaneck on the map, recording some of their greatest hits on their T-Neck record label. Among their most familiar hits are classics like “Shout,” “Twist and Shout,” “It’s Your Thing,” “That Lady,” “Fight The Power,” and “Summer Breeze.” The Grammy-nominated artists have received numerous honors including induction into the

Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2014. Considered one of the most influential groups in the last 50 years, the Isleys, now consisting of Ernie and Ronald, continue to perform and record. For the first time in 15 years, they have a top 100 showing on the Billboard charts, “Friends & Family,” featuring Ronald Isley and Snoop Dogg. — JNW

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Culture

music, art + literature

Health survival ideas for wellness

By James Frazier Newark News & Story Collaborative

Black Theater Companies Pivot, Present | In-person Theatre is Back

Money

rustrated with the lack of diversity in American theater, Ricardo Mohamed Khan and L. Kenneth Richardson conceptualized the Crossroads Theatre Company. Since its founding in 1978, Crossroads has produced over 100 works, many of them premiere productions by African and African American artists, including The Colored Museum and Spunk by George C. Wolfe, Jitney by August Wilson, Sheila’s Day by South African writer Duma, Ndlovu and many more. Crossroads received the 1999 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in the United States in recognition of its 22year history of artistic accomplishment and excellence. “My father’s heritage is East Indian; my mother is African-American and so they were bringing together two cultures,” said Kahn. “That’s ethically as well as geographically. Growing up, there was never a sense that we were solely identified by being Black kids in Camden, New Jersey. Yes, we were Black in Camden, but our roots are global. What I’ve always wanted to tell people through Crossroads is that it’s about our roots. As Black people in this country we should not forget or even allow people to think this is all of who we are.” He continued, “There’s much more! The sense of a connecting, having a theater like Crossroads that connects to many different communities in this country and around the world is in order for us to redefine who we are on a larger level.” Across the Hudson River, one of the pioneering institutions integrating artists of color and women into the mainstream American theater, Woodie King Jr.’s New Federal Theater (NFT), faces major changes. Founded in 1970, NFT began as an outgrowth of a theatre program called Mobilization for Youth. The theatre’s first season opened in the basement of St. Augustine’s

Church on Henry Street. Many performers benefited from early successes on NFT’s stage—the late Chadwick Boseman, Debbie Allen, Morgan Freeman, Phylicia Rashad, Denzel Washington, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Samuel L. Jackson, Issa Rae, and Ricardo Kahn many more. Woodie King Jr. retired from Crossroads Theatre Company leadership of the illustrious theater at the end of June. “During the first part of the pandemic, March 2020, I had been thinking about retiring,” King revealed. “Then the pandemic increased in time. The offices closed down. Then people needed to have shots. I said, ‘Wait a minute, I don’t want to go back to work. I’m 83 years old. So, what should I do?’ I thought, I needed a young person to run it. And that person was Elizabeth Van Dyke, our artistic director. She’s experienced and understands how to communicate with this generation. And getting that younger person to run it and work with me over the last year and five months, solidified it for me.” As millions of people quarantined last year, theaters around the world temporarily closed their doors and we were forced to stay at home without live entertainment. For the first time, the theater found the need to compete with social media and streaming platforms. NFT embraced change, deciding to shift theater to the digital space with pre-recorded and live

buiness, finance + work

Education the art + science of learning

Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

SURVIVAL

Continued from previous page

As millions of people quarantined last year, theaters around the world temporarily closed their doors and we were forced to stay at home without live entertainment. For the first time, the theater found the need to compete with social media and streaming platforms.

performances. “Now we’ve got to find what will translate well on Zoom. Watching a video is totally different from watching the entire event with sets, lights, and costumes. The casts are smaller. Now it’s about hearing the play,” explained King. Although making the theater available online was inevitable and the transition has shown promise, there’s still more to learn. Ricardo Kahn shifted to online, too. “During Covid it’s been tough because what online technology is to the youngsters is not necessarily the same thing as it is to older folks who want to go to the theater. The piece I’m running now, When Day Comes, includes a TikTok section. I know what that represents in terms of young people and what they are trying to say.” Khan continued, “To watch the number of viewers drop after a while, like if you have a program and then maybe 20 minutes in the viewership starts to go down, that could be a little discouraging, but it’s what this time is. It’s been a tough time, but I’m not going to say I know how to reach young people exactly. I can only keep trying because we need them for our future.” The greatest benefit of the digital theater revolution is the growth of the online community. When asked about any financial assistance the company received, Khan shared, “Yes, we were able to receive assistance, which was great and it got us through. We decided be-

Woodie King, Jr.

New Federal Theatre

The Positive Community Summer 2021

Elizabeth Van Dyke

New Federal Theatre

cause of the times that all of our online programming would be free so that anybody could see whatever they wanted to watch. They could do it for free except for the gala, which is about fundraising. For the most part, everything else was free and yet, we received more in the way of donations than we ever did before.” As the public prepares to experience theater live and in person, Crossroads Theater Company invites enthusiasts to its fall festival schedule premiering When Day Comes created and developed by Ricardo Khan and Sweet Honey in the Rock and starring members of the legendary Grammy-nominated ensemble. The Obie and AUDELCO Award-winning play, EMERGENCY! written and performed by Daniel KOA Beaty, opens September 22. To learn more and purchase tickets visit crossroadstheatrecompany.org Woodie King Jr. leaves the legacy of New Federal Theater in good hands with Elizabeth Van Dyke as the new artistic director. NFT will continue to share the Ntozake Shange Reading Series online including Jimmy’s Last Night at Mikell’s by Larry Muhammad, directed by A. Dean Irby. A Soft Escape by S.M. Shephard Massat, directed by John Scutchins, is next on the schedule. NFT offers training for beginning actors and workshops for professionals. Details can be found at newfederaltheatre.org.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Black Playwrights Shine on the Great White Way Seven of the 10 New Productions On Broadway this Fall are the Works of Black Playwrights

rom comedy to drama, there’s something for everyone in the mix. With tourism (where most of the theater revenue comes from) down it’s important for us to support these plays. HERE THEY ARE:

Chicken & Biscuits

Writer: Douglas Lyons, Director: Zhailon Levingston

Clyde’s

Writer: Lynn Nottage, Director: Kate Whoriskey

Lackawanna Blues Writer & Director: Ruben Santiago-Hudson

Pass Over

Writer: Antoinette Chinonye Nwandu, Director: Danya Taymor

Skeleton Crew

Writer: Dominique Morisseau, Director: Ruben Santiago-Hudson

Thoughts of a Colored Man Writer: Keenan Scott II, Director: Steve H. Broadnax III

Trouble in Mind

Writer: Alice Childress Director: Charles Randolph-Wright Read snyopsis’s of plays and more at www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

Dr. Albert J. Lewis Jr. Birthday Celebration

L-R: Grammy Award-winning songstress Dionne Warwick and Tony Award-winning vocalist Melba Moore escort Dr. Albert Lewis.

Dr. Albert Lewis received a Proclamation from NJ Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver.

une 19 was a big day for legendary music minister and Gospel impresario, Dr. Albert J. Lewis Jr. for the celebration of his birthday at Grace Cathedral in Newark, NJ. A resident of the city of Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Lewis is a minister of music at two churches and plays for six choirs. He is a

certified social worker, notary public, and director/ chaplain for the United Chaplain Worldwide Outreach International. He is also the executive producer and host of The Dr. A. Lewis Gospel Hour and The Sound of Gospel and Good News. Dr. Lewis is the founder of Gospel Music Month in New Jersey.

thepositivecommunity.com

Come to the Website, Featuring TPC Radio 34

The Positive Community Summer 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

GREAT MUSICAL THEATRE IS BACK!

SEP 22 - OCT 10, 2021

SEP 29 - OCT 10, 2021

Crossroads Theatre Company THE TONY AWARD WINNING THEATRE COMPANY

crossroadstheatrecompany.org

Virginia Union University (VUU) President Dr. Hakim J. Lucas

Keynote Speaker Rev. Dr. Dwight C. Jones, First Baptist Church, Richmond Va.

Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and First Lady Inez Nummally Richardson

W. Franklyn Richardson Pastoral Anniversary

r. W. Franklyn Richardson celebrated his 46th pastoral anniversary on June 13, 2021, Family, friends, colleagues, and members of Grace Baptist Church, where he is senior pastor, gathered to honor the distinguished man of the cloth. In addition to his work as leader of Grace Baptist Church, Richardson serves as board chair of three prestigious institutions—his alma mater Virginia Union University, National Action Network, and the Conference of National Black Churches. Among the many honors and accolades Richardson has received, a few are particularly noteworthy: The

The Positive Community Summer 2021

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers, the International Hall of Honor from Morehouse College, and the Alumni Award for Distinction in Congregational Ministry from Yale University. Dr. Richardson is married to Inez Nunnally Richardson and lives in New York. Grace Baptist Church, in the City of Mount Vernon, is the oldest Black congregation in Westchester County, New York. Under Dr. Richardson's 46 years of leade rship, the congregation continues to thrive, growing to one church in three locations, with more than 4,000 members nationwide. — TPC Staff

www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Dr. Lucas, Rev. Richardson and TPC Publisher, Adrian Council Sr. Rev. William Richardson (son) speaking

L–R: Clayton Banks, CEO Harlem Silicon and Publisher Rodney Renoylds, CEO American Legacy Media Photos: Regina Flemings and Raymond Hagens

Dr. Richardson hugs granddaughter

Lisa Cruchfield and her fiancé, Bro. Ralph Dickerson, Trustee VUU

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

Photos: Lem Petekins & Risasi Dias

he International African Arts Festival (IAAF) celebrated its 50th anniversary year in Brooklyn, NY. The IAAF is the longest running cultural arts festival in the United States dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the cultural and historical legacy of people of African descent. The three-day festival brought music, dance, and spoken word to Commodore Barry Park and was attended by over 75,000 people. The theme for this year’s gathering was “Hamsini Ni Dhahabu,’” Swahili for “Fifty is Gold.” This year, the IAAF paid tribute to “Women Holding up Half the Sky and Heaven.” — TPC Staff

The Positive Community Summer 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Trumpeter Ahmad Abdulla and his Diaspora meets the Afro Horn Music Group

Adeymi Bandele and NYC Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo

www.thepositivecommunity.com

World-renowned Jazz Saxophonist Renee McClean and his lady with Adeyemi Bandele, moderator of the arts festival

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

George Floyd Remembered through Art

ne of the outcomes of the yearlong social justice protests against police brutality is an amazing prolifiration of art. Likenesses of the murdered men, women, and children are everywhere—on streets, sidewalks, sides of buildings. George Floyd images are especially abundant. Recently, statues of Floyd were installed in Brooklyn, NY and Newark, NJ. The 6-foot bust of George Floyd by artist Chris Carnabuci was unveiled in Brooklyn at Flatbush Junction, the intersection of Flatbush and Nostrand Avenues. The scupture will remain at the Flatbush Junction for several weeks before moving to Union Square in Manhattan. The Newark statue was created by artist Stanley Watts and commissioned by actor and filmmaker Leon Pinkney as a gift to the city. “The world needed a peaceful George,” Watts said. “The world needed him relaxed and chilling on a bench; that’s what we produced, and we produced him larger than life. Because after death, George will be remembered. That's what memorials are. To remember and never forget why we changed today, and tomorrow, and for the rest of our existence on this planet.”

The Positive Community Summer 2021

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Rev. Herbert Daughtry

Photos: Lem Peterkin

Former NYC Councilman, Hon. Al Vann

NYC Councilman Robert E.Cornegy and Jelani Mashiranki, VP of Black Veterans for Social Justice and Jitu's nephew

Jitu K. Weusi:

BY JEAN NASH WELLS

Brooklyn Plaza named in His Honor Jitu K. Weusi

n Saturday, July 2, 2021 despite the threat of rain, more than one hundred people gathered to honor educator and activist for social justice, the late Jitu Weusi. The occasion was the hardfought renaming of Putnam Triangle on Fulton Street and Grand Avenue in Brooklyn to Jitu Weusi Plaza. Born in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, Jitu Weusi (1939-2013) formerly known as, Leslie R. Campbell, began his career in education with the New York City Department of Education. He was a founding member of the African-American Teachers Association (ATA) and notably known for his involvement in the Ocean HillBrownsville conflict that proved to be instrumental in bringing about changes nationwide in community control of public education. In the late 60s, Jitu Weusi left the department of education and opened Uhuru Sasa Shule (Freedom Now School), the first Black, independent, private school in New York City for inner-city youth. The school was one of the founding member schools of the Council of Independent Black Institutions (CIBI), an international umbrella organization for independent schools that advocate Afrikan-centered education. Jitu Weusi returned to the NYC Department of Education in 1985 and served with many school www.thepositivecommunity.com

districts for three decades of service. He retired in October 2006. Jitu Weusi was essential in forming the New York Chapter of the National Black United Front (NBUF); AfricanAmericans United for Political Power, which was a vital force in the election of Mayor David Dinkins; and he worked vigorously on Reverend Al Sharpton's attempt to become the first black US senator from New York. A preservationist of African and African-American culture, Jitu Weusi, along with community backers, started the EAST, a cultural organization in Brooklyn for people of African descent. The EAST jazz venue hosted luminous musicians such as Sonny Rollins, Pharoah Saunders, Betty

Carter, and Leon Thomas. From the EAST emerged various other organizations that still exist today. He was co-founder of the Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium (CBJC), a non-profit organization of venues and individuals committed to the development and preservation of jazz and related art forms throughout the borough of Brooklyn. Jitu K. Weusi is often referred to as “a mountain of a man” not only because of his stature, but for his fortitude as well. Father, husband, community leader—his name and the memory of his selfless actions for the benefit of his community will live on at Weusi Plaza in the Borough of Brooklyn, in New York City.

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

School Bus

EXPRESS

NEWARK RESIDENTS ONLY

TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM PLEASE BRING THE FOLLOWING: • Immunization record for child • Child’s birth certificate • Photo ID for adult • Utility, telephone or cable bill. • All documentation must be current, within 30 days at time of visit.

AUGUST 23RD – SEPTEMBER 17, 2021

Call and make an appointment TODAY (973) 733-7580 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS Immunization/Project Vaccinate 110 William Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102

Photos by Karen Waters

Rev. Stephanie Minatee and Jubilation Choir with Terrance Floyd, brother of George Floyd; Kim Nesbitt Good announces the Freedom Dinner Cruise with Adrian Council Valerie Bell, mother of Sean Bell; and Gwendolyn Carr, mother of Eric Garner.

Rev. Stephanie Minatee and Jubilation Choir

Kids enjoying Juneteenth celebration

Juneteenth Prayer And Praise

he Juneteenth Prayer & Praise event sponsored by Friends of the NJ Legacy Foundation Inc. on Friday, June 18, 2021 captured the spirit of celebration of enslaved people in Galveston, TX demonstrated on June 19,1865 when they learned they were free. It was two years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect on January 1, 1863. And just as on that hallowed day 156 years ago, gospel music filled the air and praises spread throughout the venue—Warinaco Park in Roselle, NJ. The glorious gospel music by Rev. Stephanie Minatee & Jubilation Choir provided the perfect accompaniment to a marvelous day. — TPC Staff

Children waving the Pan-African flag

The Positive Community Summer 2021

L-R: Douglas Washington, Gwendolyn Carr; Elizabeth, NJ Council President Patricia Perkins-Auguste; Union County, NJ Assemblyman Jamal Holley; Juneteenth organizer Kim Nesbitt Good; Robert Taylor, Esq.; Valerie Bell; and Terrance Floyd, brother of George Floyd. www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Summer 2021 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com

The Last Word

Summer 2021

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 21 No. 5

Publisher

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales

Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. Marc Williams NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR

Contributing Writers Patricia Baldwin Glenda Cadogan Fern Gillespie Derrel Jazz Johnson g.r. mattox Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi Rev. Theresa Nance

Photographers

Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Regina Flemming Bob Gore Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Seitu Oronde Karen Waters Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr.

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC Raymond Hagans

Production Assistant April Davis

The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permis‑ sion 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.

The Positive Community Summer 2021

FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD TRUMPS EVERYTHING

n July 25, 2018, the then President of the United States said something that made me stop in my tracks. “What you’re seeing and what you’re reading is not what’s happening.” He was speaking to a group of veterans, but in reality, he meant the comment for all of us. I have had plenty of time to reflect on the comment lately, and the repercussions it has wrought. You see, I have not had telephone or internet for the last 10 days. A severe thunderstorm disabled our phone service one night and we’ve been without it ever since. The earliest appointment for repair was five days out. When no one came, a representative told me there was no appointment scheduled. Thank goodness for screenshots, otherwise who knows how much longer we would have had to wait. The technician arrived the following day and told us the problem was not the storm, it had to be our inside wiring—likely water damage from the storm causing a short. We have no leaks, no moisture on the ceilings or walls, no damage to our roof. Then he said it must be mice chewing on the wires. But we don’t have a pest problem. We have an exterminator on contract and if there were mice, even if we didn’t see them, there would be signs. The technician wanted us to suspend things we know to be true and believe whatever he said. He did something that got a dial tone for us, but we were once again without service when it stormed a few hours later. When we called repair again and we were told our service was working, despite telling the company it wasn’t. They wanted us to believe them

rather than what we were seeing and (not) hearing. Meanwhile, we both work from home, but haven’t been able to do so. And we can’t go to Starbucks or the library for internet service because of the pandemic the former President first said didn’t exist, then said, “…like a miracle it will disappear.” Eighteen months later, we have yet to see that happen, but then again, we can’t believe what we see, right? We’re expecting a technician tomorrow. I have faith and pray our service will be restored and we will have internet, phone, and television once more. But wait, I can’t see prayers or faith! How can I believe that, but not believe what the technician or the former President said? Well, phone and internet signals are based in science. They’re tangible and can easily be proven to be working or defective via a simple test. Faith in God, however... The tests often aren’t as simple. And no matter how much God does for us, many will try to discount and discredit His works as luck, consequence, or happenstance. But we know the truth. We know and believe in what He makes happen. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Moderator Roland Martin

e Black Church in the Pursuit of Economic Justice Host Pastor Dr. David Jeﬀerson, Sr., Esq.

@ REBROADCAST @ROLANDSMARTIN Join Us

For Our Community Townhall Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson

Dr. Willie D. Francois

Dr. Jacqueline Thompson Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III

Dr. Suzanne Johnson-Cooke

Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr_

Bishop Joseph Walker III

Dr. Samuel C. Tolbert, Jr

Bishop Talbert W. Swan

How can the Black Church advance an Economic Agenda?

CELEBRATE SUMMER CELEBRATE SUMMER IN JERSEY IN NEW NEW JERSEY

Surprise with new new wonders, wonders, Surprise yourself yourself with or rediscover the places and faces or rediscover the places and faces you Beloved beaches beaches you treasure treasure most. most. Beloved and boardwalks. Parks, forests and and boardwalks. forests and family-favorite attractions. Distinctive family-favorite attractions. Distinctive dining, culture.Inspiring Inspiring dining,art, art, history history and culture. journeys, Heritage and and journeys, like like our Black Heritage Scenic Byways Trip Itineraries. Scenic Itineraries. Get your your free official travel Get travel guide guide and explore explore at VisitNJ.org. and VisitNJ.org.

GET THE MOBILE APP GET THE MOBILE APP

Summer 2021 NJ

Articles inside

Guest Editorial