March 2018

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ March 2018 thepositivecommunity.com

$2.95

Special Section

Women to

Watch

Gayle ChaneyfieldJenkins’ Triumph

celebrating

W0MEN

www.thepositivecommunity.com

NJ Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver Takes A Seat at the Table 1

Winter 2018 The Positive Community

Pulpit Staff at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church and the originator of Jedediah’s Porch

Associate Pastor of Ministries First Baptist Church Burlington, NC

Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, 212 Tompkins Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11216 ~ Website: mountpisgahny.com ~ Facebook: facebook.com/mtpisgahbk

Community Baptist Church of Englewood INVITES YOU TO JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS AT THE

25th Pastoral Anniversary Gala FOR

Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr. HONORING HIS DEDICATION TO MINISTRY AND SERVANTHOOD IN CHRIST

Monday, May 21, 2018

7:00pm

S UNDAY

MAY 20, 2018 EVENTS 546 RIVER DRIVE, GARFIELD, NJ

Community Baptist Church Of Englewood 224 First Street, Englewood, NJ

General Admission: $150 per person

25th Pastoral Anniversary Services 8:00am and 11:00am

THE JOURNEY A Musical Tribute to Pastor Taylor 7:00pm

Special Guest Karen Clark Sheard

VIP TICKETS: $250 per person (limited tickets available)

VIP TICKETS WILL INCLUDE: VIP Cocktail Reception with Pastor Taylor at The Gala Meet & Greet with Special Guest Artist Karen Clark Sheard Reserved VIP Seating in Ballroom VIP Seating at The Journey

A Musical Tribute to Pastor Taylor

Sunday, May 20, 2018, 7:00pm

Englewood, NJ

Community Baptist Church of englewood | 224 First Street, Englewood, NJ 07631 | www.cbcofe.org

MARCH 2018

CONTENTS SECTIONS MONEY ................................... 12 HEALTH ................................... 19 EDUCATION ............................. 42 CULTURE ................................ 46

Features

28

Brooklyn Clergy & Elected Officials Meet .................. 12 Wall Street Project Economic Summit ...................... 14 Passaic NAACP Celebrates Black History .................. 17

ON THE COVER:

Catching Up with Gayle Chaneyfield-Jenkins ............ 19

Congratulations to New Jersey Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver

Anna Glass – Dance Theater of Harlem .................... 32

SPECIAL SECTION: Women to Watch ....................................... 27

&

also inside

My View ............................................... 8

Lucinda Cross – Activate Worldwide ......................... 34 Tamika Stembridge – dfree® Global Foundation ...... 35 Donna Walker-Kuhne – Walker Communications ...... 36 Dee Marshall – Raise the Bar .................................. 38 The Cultural Inspiration for Black Panther ................ 40 NST Celebrates 20 Years ......................................... 42

Fitness Doctor .................................... 22 Know Your History .................................................... 46 Gospel Train ....................................... 53 NJPAC MLK Awards .................................................. 48 The Way Ahead .................................. 57 Imhotep Gary Byrd Speaks at Frontier Event ............ 50 The Last Word .................................... 58 Positive Music Matters ............................................ 55 4

The Positive Community March 2018

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Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, Harlem, NY Rev.Abyssinian Dr. Calvin O.B.C., Butts III, NY Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Calvin Dr. Calvin O. Butts O. Butts III, Pastor III, Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Abyssinian B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Abyssinian Dr. Perry Simmons, Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Perry Dr. Perry Simmons, Simmons, Pastor Pastor Abundant LifeSimmons, Fellowship COGIC, Rev. Dr. Perry Pastor Newark, NJ Abundant Abundant Life Life Fellowship Fellowship COGIC, COGIC, Newark, Newark, NJLife NJ Supt.

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

Edward Edward Bohannon, Bohannon, Jr, Pastor Jr, Pastor Aenon BaptistBohannon, Church, Vauxhall Supt. Edward Jr, PastorNJ Aenon Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Vauxhall Vauxhall NJ NJ Rev Aenon Alphonso Williams, Sr Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, NJ Rev Rev Alphonso Alphonso Williams, Williams, SrVauxhall Pastor Sr Pastor Agape Baptist Church, Newark NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr Pastor Agape Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark Newark NJ NJ Rev.Agape Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Agape Baptist Newark Rev. Rev. Craig Craig R. Jackson, R.Church, Jackson, Pastor Pastor NJ Antioch Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. CraigBaptist R. Jackson, Pastor Antioch Baptist Baptist Church., Church., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev.Antioch Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Antioch Baptist Brooklyn, Rev. Rev. Robert Robert M. Waterman, M.Church., Waterman, Pastor Pastor NY Archdiocese of New York Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese Archdiocese New of New YorkYork Brother TyroneofDavis, Office of Black Ministry Archdiocese of New York Brother Brother Tyrone Tyrone Davis, Davis, Office Office of Black of Black Ministry Ministry Baptist Ministers Conference Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Baptist Baptist Ministers Ministers Conference Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater ofJames Greater NY &NYVicinity & Vicinity Rev. Morrison, Pastor of Greater NY &Morrison, Vicinity Rev. Rev. James James Morrison, Pastor Pastor Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. James Morrison, Pastor Berean B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev.Berean Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Berean Brooklyn, NY Rev. Rev. ArleeB.C., Arlee Griffin Griffin Jr., Pastor Jr., Pastor Bethany Brooklyn, NY Rev. ArleeB.C., Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany Bethany B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NYSr.NYPastor Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Adolphus Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor Sr. Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Sr. Pastor Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Bethany B.C.,E. B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Bethany Timothy Jones, Pastor Bethany B.C., NJPastor Rev. Rev. Timothy Timothy E. Newark, Jones, E. Jones, Pastor Bethlehem B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. TimothyMissionary E. Jones, Pastor Bethlehem Missionary B.C.,B.C., Roselle, Roselle, NJ NJ Rev.Bethlehem Jeffrey Missionary Bryan, Pastor Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Rev. Jeffrey Jeffrey Bryan, Bryan, Pastor Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Beulah Beulah Bible Bible Cathedral Cathedral Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Beulah BibleLydell Cathedral Church, Newark, Gerald Gerald Lydell Dickson, Dickson, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor NJ Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior PastorNJ Calvary Calvary Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Garfield, Garfield, NJ NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Rev. Calvin Calvin McKinney, McKinney, Pastor Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Church, Morristown, Morristown, NJ NJ Rev.Calvary Jerry M.Baptist Carter, Jr., Pastor Calvary Baptist Morristown, NJ Rev. Rev. JerryJerry M. Carter, M. Church, Carter, Jr., Pastor Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C.B.D. ofC.Johnson, Christ, of Christ, Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev.Canaan Thomas Pastor Canaan B. C.D.ofJohnson, Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Rev. Thomas Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Pastor Canaan B.C.,D.Paterson, Rev. Thomas Johnson,NJ Pastor Canaan B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev.Canaan Barry L.B.C., Graham, Pastor Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Rev. BarryBarry L. Graham, L. Graham, Pastor Pastor Cathedral International., Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Perth Amboy, NJ Cathedral Cathedral International., International., Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, NJ NJ Pastor Bishop Donald Hilliard, Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Hilliard, Bishop Bishop Donald Donald Hilliard, Pastor Pastor Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor Charity Charity Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Bronx, NY NY Rev. Reginald Williams, PastorBronx, Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, Rev. Rev. Reginald Reginald Williams, Williams, Pastor PastorNY Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Center, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev.Christian A.R. Cultural Barnard, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev.Rev. A.R.A.R. Barnard, Barnard, Pastor Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev.Dr. A.R. Barnard, Pastor Pastor Rev. Ronald Christian, Christian Christian LoveLove B.C., B.C., Irvington, Irvington, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Ronald Dr.Love Ronald Christian, Christian, Pastor Pastor Christian B.C., Irvington, NJ NJ Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, Rev. Dr. Ronald Christian, Pastor Clear View View Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Clear Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, Rev. Rev. Eric Eric M. Beckham, M. Beckham, M.Div., M.Div., MFTMFT NJ Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT Community B.C., B.C., Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev.Community Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, Rev. Rev. Dr. Lester Dr. Lester Taylor, Taylor, Pastor PastorNJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor

Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Community Church Church of God, of God, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev.Community Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Community Church God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Shirley Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., B. of Cathie., Pastor Pastor Emeritus Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord Concord B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Concord Brooklyn, NYPastor Rev. Rev. Dr. Gary Dr.B.C., Gary V. Simpson, V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue BaptistPastor Church, Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, New York, NY Convent Convent Avenue Avenue Baptist Baptist Church, Church, New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Convent Avenue Baptist Pastor Church, New NYT. Willams, Rev. Rev. Dr.York, Jesse Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Pastor Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Emmanuel Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Brooklyn Brooklyn NY NY Rev.Emmanuel Anthony Trufant, Pastor Emmanuel Baptist Church, Rev. Rev. Anthony Anthony Trufant, Trufant, Pastor PastorBrooklyn NY Empire Missionary B.C., Convention NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor Empire Missionary B.C., B.C., Convention Convention NY NY Rev.Empire Dr.Missionary Ronald Grant, President Empire Missionary B.C., Convention NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Ronald Dr. Ronald Grant, Grant, President President Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald Grant, President Fellowship Missionary B.C.,B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Fellowship Dr. Elton T.Missionary Byrd Pastor/Founder Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Elton Dr. Elton T. Byrd T. Byrd Pastor/Founder Pastor/Founder First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder NJ First B.C. of Lincoln of Lincoln Gardens, Gardens, Somerset Somerset NJ NJ Rev.First Dr. B.C. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Rev. Dr.B.C. DeForest Dr.ofDeForest (Buster) (Buster) Soaries, Soaries, Pastor Pastor First Baptist Church, EastSoaries, Elmhurst, NY Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Pastor First Baptist Baptist Church, Church, EastEast Elmhurst, Elmhurst, NY NY RevFirst Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev Rev Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Young, Young, Pastor Pastor First BaptistHenry Church of Teaneck, Rev Patrick Young, Pastor NJ First Baptist Baptist Church Church of Teaneck, of Teaneck, NJ NJ Rev.First Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr.Baptist Marilyn Dr. Marilyn Monroe Monroe Harris, Harris, Pastor Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Corinthian Corinthian Baptist Church, NYPastor NY Rev.First Michael A. Baptist Walrond, Jr. Church, Senior First Corinthian NY Pastor Rev. Rev. Michael Michael A. Walrond, A.Baptist Walrond, Jr.Church, Senior Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Park Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev.First Rufus McClendon, Jr.,Plainfield, Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Rev. Rev. Rufus Rufus McClendon, McClendon, Jr., Pastor Jr.,Plainfield, Pastor NJ First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor First Baptist Baptist Church, Church, South South Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev.First Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor First Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr.Baptist Terry Dr. Terry Richardson, Richardson, Pastor Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Rahway, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor Friendship Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Rahway, Rahway, NJ NJ Rev.Friendship Allen Thompson, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Rahway, NJ Rev. Rev. AllenAllen Thompson, Thompson, Jr., Pastor Jr., Pastor General Convention, Rev. AllenBaptist Thompson, Jr., PastorNJ General Baptist Convention, Convention, NJ NJ Rev.General Dr. Baptist Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President General Baptist Convention, Rev. Rev. Dr. Lester Dr. Lester W. Taylor, W. Taylor, Jr., President Jr., NJ President Good Church Rev. Dr.Neighbor Lester W.Baptist Taylor, Jr., President Good Good Neighbor Neighbor Baptist Baptist Church Church Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Good Church Rev. Rev. Dr.Neighbor George Dr. George A. Baptist Blackwell, A. Blackwell, III, Pastor III, Pastor Grace C., Mt.A.Vernon, NY III, Pastor Rev. Dr.B.George Blackwell, Grace B. Franklyn C.,B.Mt. C., Vernon, Mt. NY NY Pastor Rev.Grace Dr. W. Vernon, Richardson, Grace B.Dr.C., Mt.W.Vernon, NY Pastor Rev. Rev. Dr. Franklyn Franklyn Richardson, W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian Abyssinian BC, Newark, BC, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Greater Allen Potts, Senior Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, Rev. Rev. AllenAllen Potts, Potts, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor NJ Greater HillSenior B.C., Pastor Harlem, NY Rev. AllenZion Potts, Greater Zion Hill Hill B.C., Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev.Greater Dr.Zion Frank J. B.C., Blackshear, Pastor Greater Zion Harlem, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Frank Dr. Frank J.Hill Blackshear, J.B.C., Blackshear, Pastor Pastor Harlem Congregations for Rev. Dr. FrankImprovement J. Blackshear,(HCCI) Pastor Community Harlem Harlem Congregations Congregations for for Community Community Improvement (HCCI) Malcolm A. Improvement Punter, President &(HCCI) CEO Harlem Congregations for Community Malcolm Malcolm A. Punter, A.Improvement Punter, President President &(HCCI) CEO & CEO Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Malcolm A. Punter, President & CEO NJ Imani Imani Baptist Baptist Church, Church, East East Orange, Orange, Rev.Chuch Chamberlayne, Pastor NJ NJ Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Rev.Chuch Rev.Chuch Chamberlayne, Chamberlayne, Pastor Pastor NJ It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev.Chuch Chamberlayne, Pastor ItRev. Is ItWell Is Well Living Living Ministries, Ministries, Clark, Clark, NJ NJ Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor It IsRev. Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Kahlil Carmichael, Carmichael, Pastor Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church, Church, Lakewood, Lakewood, NJ NJ Dr. Macedonia EdwardBaptist D. Harper, Pastor Macedonia Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward Dr. Edward D.Baptist Harper, D. Harper, Pastor Pastor Mariners’ B.C., New York, NY Dr. Edward Temple D. Harper, Pastor Mariners’ Temple Temple B.C., B.C., New New York,York, NY NY Rev.Mariners’ Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor Mariners’ B.C., New York, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Henrietta Dr. Temple Henrietta Carter, Carter, Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT CT Shiloh Shiloh B.C., B.C., Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Rev. James Logan, Pastor Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Rev. James James Logan, Logan, Pastor PastorBridgeport, CT Rev.Shiloh Rev. Darell Darell Armstrong, Armstrong, Pastor Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ St. Anthony Baptist Church, Rev. James Logan, Pastor Rev. Darell Armstrong, PastorBrooklyn, NY Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, Church, East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ St. Anthony St. Anthony Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper,Brooklyn, Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Rev. DanaDana Owens, Owens, Pastor PastorEast Orange, NJ Rev.St. Rev. Dr.Anthony Duane Dr. Duane E. Cooper, E. Cooper, Pastor Pastor Metropolitan B.C.,Pastor Newark, NJ St. Baptist Church,Pastor Camden, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Rev.John Dr. Duane E. Cooper, Metropolitan Metropolitan B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ St. Rev. John St. John Baptist Church, Church, Camden, Camden, Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Dr.Baptist Silas M. Townsend, PastorNJ NJ Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Baptist Church, Camden, Rev. Rev. Dr. David Dr. David Jefferson, Jefferson, Pastor Pastor Rev.St. Rev. Dr.John Silas Dr. Silas M. Townsend, M. Townsend, Pastor Pastor NJ Mount Calvary B.C., Englewood, NJ St. John’s B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor Mount Mount Calvary Calvary B.C., Englewood, Englewood, NJ St. Rev. John’s St. Dr. John’s B.C.,B.C., Scotch Scotch Plains, Plains, NJSenior NJ Pastor Rev. Dr. Vernon C. B.C., Walton, SeniorNJPastor Evans L. Spagner, Interim Mount Calvary B.C., Englewood, NJ Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Vernon Dr. Vernon C. Walton, C. Walton, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Rev.St. Rev. Dr.John’s Evans Dr. Evans L.B.C., Spagner, L. Spagner, Interim Interim Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Mount Calvary United Methodist Church, St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Vernon C. Walton, Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Evans L. Spagner, Interim Senior Pastor New York, NYUnited Mount Mount Calvary Calvary United Methodist Methodist Church, Church, St. Rev. Luke St. Luke Baptist Church Church of Harlem, of Harlem, NY NY Dr.Baptist Johnnie McCann, Pastor New New York, York, NY Kairson, NYUnited Rev. Francis Pastor Mount Calvary Methodist Church, Rev.St. Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr.Luke Johnnie Dr. Johnnie McCann, McCann, Pastor Pastor St B.C., Paterson, New York, NYKairson, Rev. Rev. Francis Francis Kairson, Pastor Pastor Rev.Luke Dr. Johnnie McCann,NJ Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY St Luke St Luke B.C., B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor Rev. Francis Kairson, Pastor Mt.Rev. Neboh Mt.Dr.Neboh Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Harlem, NY NY Rev.StRev. Johnnie Green Jr.,Harlem, Pastor Luke B.C., NJPastor Kenneth Kenneth D.R.Paterson, D.R. Clayton, Clayton, Pastor St. AME Mt. Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Rev. Dr.Neboh Johnnie Dr. Johnnie Green Green Jr., Pastor Jr., Pastor Rev.James Kenneth D.R.Church, Clayton,Newark, Pastor NJ Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY St. Rev. James St. James AMEAME Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Ronald L.Church, Slaughter, Pastor Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt.Rev. Pisgah Mt.Dr.Pisgah B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor James Church, Newark, Rev.St. Rev. Ronald Ronald L. AME Slaughter, L. Slaughter, Pastor Pastor NJ St. Paul Baptist, Red Bank, NJ Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev.Rev. Dr. Johnny Dr. Johnny Ray Ray Youngblood, Youngblood, Pastor Pastor Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor Mount Baptist Church, Pastor St. Rev. Paul St. Paul Baptist, Baptist, Red Red Bank, Bank, NJ NJ Alexander Brown, Pastor Rev. Dr.Olive Johnny Ray Youngblood, Hackensack, NJ Mount Mount OliveOlive Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Paul Baptist, Red Bank, Rev.St. Rev. Alexander Alexander Brown, Brown, Pastor PastorNJ St. Mark Missionary B.C., Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ NJ Rev. Gregory Jackson, Pastor Mount Olive J. Baptist Church, Rev. Alexander Brown, PastorJamaica, NY St. Rev. Mark St. Mark Missionary Missionary B.C.,B.C., Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NY Hackensack, NJ Owen E. Williams, Pastor Rev. Rev. Gregory Gregory J. Jackson, J. Jackson, Pastor Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev.St. Mark B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen Owen E. Missionary Williams, E. Williams, Pastor Pastor Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor St. AME Church, Mount Mount ZionZion Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Westwood, Westwood, NJ NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Rev.Matthew Owen E. Williams, PastorOrange, NJ Matthew St. Matthew AMED. AME Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Mount Zion Baptist Church, Dr. Lanel Guyton, Pastor Rev. Rev. BarryBarry R. Miller, R. Miller, Pastor Pastor Westwood, NJ St. Rev. Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev.St. Rev. Dr.Matthew Lanel Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, D. Guyton, Pastor Pastor Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor St. Paul's B.C., Montclair, NJ Mt.Rev. Olivet Mt.André Olivet B.C, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ W.B.C, Milteer, Pastor Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor St. Rev. Paul's St. Paul's B.C., Montclair, Montclair, NJ Pastor NJ Mt. Olivet NJ Dr. B.C., Bernadette Glover, Rev. Rev. André André W.B.C, Milteer, W. Newark, Milteer, Pastor Pastor Mt. Church,Pastor Trenton, NJ B.C., Glover, Montclair, NJ Rev.St. Rev. Dr.Paul's Bernadette Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor Pastor Rev.Zion AndréAME W. Milteer, St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Mt.Rev. Zion Mt.J.Zion AME AME Church, Church, Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Stanley Justice, Pastor Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. Rev. Paul St. Paul Community Community B.C.,Pastor B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Mt. AME Church, Trenton, David K. Brawley, Rev. Rev. J.Zion Stanley J. Stanley Justice, Justice, Pastor Pastor NJ New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Paul B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev.St. Rev. David David K.Community Brawley, K. Brawley, Pastor Pastor Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor The B.C., Newark, New New Hope Baptist Baptist Church, Metuchen, Metuchen, NJ NJ Rev. Dr.Hope Ronald L.Church, Owens, Pastor Rev. New DavidHope K. Brawley, Pastor NJ The The New New Hope Hope B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev.Rev. Dr. Ronald Dr. Ronald L. Owens, L. Owens, Pastor Pastor Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hope B.C., Newark, Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor Rev.The Rev. JoeNew Joe Carter, Carter, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor NJ Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ NewNew HopeHope Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Union Baptist Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Joe Carter,Temple,, Senior Pastor Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, NJofNJ Rev. Dr. Frances Manning-Fontaine New Hope Baptist Church Union Union Baptist Baptist Temple,, Temple,, Bridgeton, Bridgeton, NJ NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Pastor Emeritus Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Frances Dr. Frances Manning-Fontaine Manning-Fontaine Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev.Union Rev. Albert Albert L. Morgan, L. Morgan, Pastor Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Pastor Pastor Emeritus EmeritusManning-Fontaine Rev. Dr. Frances Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor New Jerusalem Worship Center, United United Fellowship Fellowship B.C.,B.C., Asbury Park,Park, NJ NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Asbury Pastor Pastor Emeritus Jamaica, NY Worship New New Jerusalem Jerusalem Worship Center, Center, Fellowship B.C., Rev.United Rev. James James H. Brown, H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Sr.,Asbury Pastor Park, NJ Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NYRice, Rev. Dr. Calvin Senior Center, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY New Jerusalem Worship Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Jamaica, NYRice,Rice, Rev. Rev. Dr. Calvin Dr. Calvin Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Walker Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, Bronx, NY NY Rev. Dr. J.Memorial AlbertB.C. Bush Sr., Pastor New LifeCalvin Cathedral, Mt. Holly, Rev. Dr. Rice, Senior PastorNJ Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. J.Dr.Albert J. Albert BushBush Sr., Pastor Sr., Pastor New New Life Cathedral, Cathedral, Mt. Holly, Mt. Holly, NJ NJ Rev. EricLife Wallace, Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor New Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Rev. EricLife Eric Wallace, Wallace, Pastor Pastor Welcome Welcome Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, Rev. Dr. Elijah C.Williams, Pastor NJ NJ New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev.Welcome Rev. Dr. Elijah Dr. Elijah C.Williams, C.Williams, Pastor Pastor New New Zion Zion B.C., B.C., Elizabeth, Elizabeth, Rev. Kevin James, PastorNJ NJ World Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr.Gospel Elijah C.Williams, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev.Rev. KevinKevin James, James, Pastor Pastor World World Gospel Gospel Music Music Assoc., Assoc., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Kevin James, Pastor Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. World Albert Dr. Albert Lewis, Lewis, Founder Founder Paradise Paradise B. C., B.Newark, C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Businesses & Organizations Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Rev. Jethro Jethro James, James, Pastor Pastor Businesses Businesses & Organizations & Organizations Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, 125th St. BID Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Businesses & Organizations East Orange, NJ Disciples Park Park Ave Ave Christian Christian Disciples of Christ, of Christ, 125th City National Bank 125th St. BID St. BID County College, NJ East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Disciples Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor of Christ, Park Ave Christian City Essex National City National Bank 125th St.Harlem BID Bank Greater Chamber Essex Essex County County College, College, NJ NJof Commerce East Orange, NJ Pastor Rev. Rev. Harriet Harriet Wallace, Wallace, Pastor City National Bank Marion P. Harlem Thomas Charter School Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Greater Greater Harlem Chamber Chamber ofNJ Commerce of Commerce Essex County College, Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Mildred Crump, Newark CitySchool Council Marion Marion P. Thomas P. Thomas Charter Charter School Pilgrim Pilgrim B.Glenn C.,B.Newark, C.,Wilson, Newark, NJ NJ Greater American Harlem Chamber of of Commerce Rev. Dr. Pastor Muslim Chamber Commerce Mildred Mildred Crump, Crump, Newark Newark City Council City Council Marion P. Thomas Charter School Pilgrim C., Newark, NJ NAACP New Jersey* Rev. Rev. Dr. Glenn Dr.B.Glenn Wilson, Wilson, Pastor Pastor Muslim Muslim American American Chamber Chamber of Commerce of Commerce Mildred NY Crump, Newark City Council Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ NAACP, State Conference* NAACP NAACP NewAmerican Jersey* New Jersey* Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Muslim Chamber of Commerce New Brunswick Theological Seminary Ruth Ruth Fellowship Fellowship Ministries, Ministries, Plainfield, NJ NJ NAACP, Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Plainfield, NAACP, NY State NY State Conference* Conference* NAACP New Performing Jersey* Arts Center Brunswick NewJersey Brunswick Theological Theological Seminary Seminary Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Rev. Rev. Tracey Tracey Brown, Brown, Pastor Pastor Plainfield, NJ NewNew NAACP, NYTheological State Conference* New Seminary Jersey NewYork Jersey Performing Performing Arts Center ArtsSeminary Center Shiloh AMEBrown, Zion Church, New Brunswick Theological Rev. Tracey Pastor Englewood, NJ New NobleNNJ NewNew York NewJersey Theological York Theological Seminary Seminary Performing Arts Center Shiloh Shiloh AME AME Zion Zion Church, Church, Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Nubian Conservatory of Music NobleNNJ NobleNNJ New York Theological Seminary Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Nubian Rev. Rev. JohnJohn D. Givens, D. Givens, Pastor Pastor Nubian Conservatory Conservatory of Music of Music NobleNNJ Schomburg Center forNewark, Research Shiloh B.C., NJ Razac Razac Products Products Co., Newark, Co., NJ NJ Rev. John D. Plainfield, Givens, Pastor Nubian Conservatory of Music The College of New Rochelle Schomburg Center Center for Research for Research Shiloh Shiloh B.C.,B.C., Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ Sr., NJSenior Pastor Schomburg Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Razac Products Co., Newark, United Way ofofEssex WestNJHudson College The College of New Rochelle Newforand Rochelle Schomburg Center Research Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, Rev. Rev. Hodari Hodari K. Hamilton, K. Hamilton, Sr.,NJSenior Sr., Senior Pastor Pastor The WBGO-88.3FM United United Way of Way Essex of New Essex andRochelle West and West Hudson Hudson The College of West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor WBGO-88.3FM WBGO-88.3FM United Way of Essex and West Hudson WestWBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Harlem GroupGroup Assistance, Assistance, Inc. Inc.

WestBlack Harlem Group Assistance, “The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Church.

AllInc.churches “The “The Positive Positive Community Community magazine magazine does does outstanding outstanding work in promoting in promoting thethe good good works works of the of the Black Black Church.

Church.

All All churches churches The Positive Community . Please support this magazine, the only one and businesses should subscribe to and advertise inwork “and Theand Positive Community magazine outstanding in promoting the works of the Black Church.

All churches The Positive Positive Community Community .good Please . Please support support this this magazine, magazine, the only only oneone businesses businesses should should subscribe subscribe to does and to and advertise advertise in The inwork Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010 the that features good news about the black community.”— Community . Baptist Please support the only one andthat businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Rev.Positive Rev. Buster Buster Soaries, Soaries, General General Baptist Revival, Revival, Maythis May 20, magazine, 2010 20, 2010 that features features good good news news about about thethe black black community.”— community.”— that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

REV. REV. THERESA THERESA NANCE NANCE MY VIEW VIEW MY

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

Embracing All of Our Black History

S

ometimes in in life, life, there there isis no no do-over. do-over. Thus Thus begins begins my my ometimes reflection on on this this year’s year’s Black Black History History Month.

Month. Yes, Yes, reflection throughout February, February, the the print, print, broadcast, broadcast, and and social social throughout media told told us us about about the the marvelous marvelous contributions contributions made made by by media blacks who who did did not not allow allow their their captivity captivity from from letting letting them them blacks singthe theLord’s Lord’s song song in in aa strange strange land. land. But, But, II won’t won’t go go all all the the sing way back to the Middle Passage and the sojourn from the way back to the Middle Passage and the sojourn from the doorof ofno no return return to to these these American American shores. shores. door I will, however, reminisce about an event II remember remember as as I will, however, reminisce about an event though it were yesterday, which occurred in my young life though it were yesterday, which occurred in my young life whilein inelementary elementary school school and and II haven’t haven’t been been able able to to shake shake while it to this very day.

I don’t recall which teacher it was, she was it to this very day. I don’t recall which teacher it was, she was white, as most teachers were in the 1950s but she was prowhite, as most teachers were in the 1950s but she was progressive. The The word word “progressive” “progressive” wasn’t wasn’t coined coined back back then, then, gressive. but that’s what she would have been called today. but that’s what she would have been called today.

One of my classmates had a grandmother who was a stoOne of my classmates had a grandmother who was a storyteller. Yes, she went around the whole country telling tales ryteller. Yes, she went around the whole country telling tales about black children and other delightful stories. When about black children and other delightful stories. When my teacher learned of this woman, she told my classmate my teacher learned of this woman, she told my classmate she wanted her grandmother to come in and share some of she wanted her grandmother to come in and share some of those tales with us. And so she did. I still can feel myself inchthose tales with us. And so she did. I still can feel myself inching down into my chair because this stout, animated woman ing down into my chair because this stout, animated woman embarrassed me. We’re probably looking back on the fourth embarrassed me. We’re probably looking back on the fourth or fifth grade. or fifth grade.

Today, she would have made a fortune. She was just that Today, she would have made a fortune. She was just that good. I can still see my teacher smiling with great delight at good. I can still see my teacher smiling with great delight at this talented woman who had the gift of weaving incredible this talented woman who had the gift of weaving incredible stories. Unfortunately, on that day, she presented her rich stories. Unfortunately, on that day, she presented her rich tapestry to an unappreciative audience. Sad to say, I wasn’t tapestry to an unappreciative audience. Sad to say, I wasn’t alone in my ignorance. Many of my fellow African-Amerialone in my ignorance. Many of my fellow African-American classmates giggled nervously because indeed and in can classmates giggled nervously because indeed and in fact, we were ashamed of her. I could weep at the memofact, of her. weep Granted, at the memowere ashamedand ry ofwe our foolishness lack Iofcould manners. playry of our foolishness and lack of manners.

Granted, wright George Bernard Shaw said, “Youth is wasted onplaythe wright Bernard Shaw said, “Youth is wasted on the young,”George so I guess I can attribute such ignorance to youthful young,” I guess frivolity.so But still . I. can . attribute such ignorance to youthful frivolity.

But still . . .

I often wonder what happened to the storyteller. Sadly, I I often wonder whatBut happened the storyteller. don’t know her name. can you to imagine that in theSadly, 1950sI don’t know her name.

But can you imagine that in the 1950s there was a black woman going from state to state telling dethere a black woman going state couldn’t to state telling deliciouswas tales and most times shefrom probably even find licious tales and most times she probably couldn’t even find a decent rooming house or hotel to rest her weary head? a decent rooming house or hotel to rest her weary head?

8 The Positive Community 8 The The Positive Positive Community Community

Winter 2018 Winter 2018 2018 March

Jim Crow ran rampant in the South and James Crow, Esq. Jim Crow ran rampant in the South and James Crow, Esq. was just as bad “up South” as the North was often called. But was just as bad “up South” as the North was often called. But the phony veneer covered — and not too well, mind you—a the phony veneer covered — and not too well, mind you—a multitude of racist sins decidedly north of the Mason/Dixon multitude of racist sins decidedly north of the Mason/Dixon line. line.

Gosh, I wish I would have had the wisdom to embrace Gosh, I wish I would have had the wisdom to embrace that dear lady, this gallant woman who soldiered on in spite that dear lady, this gallant woman who soldiered on in spite of many obstacles, I’m sure. of many obstacles, I’m sure.

In a different scenario, years ago when working as a colIn a different scenario, years ago when working as a columnist for The Herald News, I interviewed B.B. King, the umnist for The Herald News, I interviewed B.B. King, the great blues artist. The interview was going well until he regreat blues artist. The interview was going well until he recalled what usually took place after his concerts. In his own called what usually took place after his concerts. In his own words, “Sometimes young, black members of the audience words, “Sometimes young, black members of the audience come up to me and ask for my autograph. But they always come up to me and ask for my autograph. But they always pretend they’re getting it for their mother or grandmother. pretend they’re getting it for their mother or grandmother.

It’s as if they are ashamed of me.” I didn’t have the heart It’stell as ifhim, theythey are probably ashamedwere. of me.”

I didn’t have the the pond heart to And, yet, across to tell him, they probably were.

And, yet, across the pond in England, blues artists like King, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ in England, blues Reed, artists etc., like are King, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Jimmy revered.

Wolf, Little Jimmy Reed, etc., are revered.

What we sometimes do to those who have paved the way is What we sometimes to thosesaid, who“Do havethe paved inexcusable.

Poet Mayado Angelou bestthe youway canis inexcusable.

Poet Maya Angelou said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do betuntil you know better.

Then when you know better, do better.” While there are no do-overs in some areas of life, I’m ter.” While aremuch no do-overs in some areas ofpress life, I’m proud to saythere I know better now.

So, we must on proud to say I know much better now.

So, we must press on and vow to do better with what we now know. and vow to do better with what we now know. www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

WeWe have have thethe energy energy to to make make things things better. better. for you, for our for communities our communities and and for our for future. our future. [ ...[ for...you, ] ] www.pseg.com www.pseg.com

PSEG PSEG strives strives for for inclusion inclusion of employees of employees with with diverse diverse backgrounds. backgrounds.

Diversity Diversity andand inclusion inclusion drive drive success success across across ourour company, company, andand areare an essential an essential partpart of of everything everything wewe do,do, every every day.day.

We make We things make things work for work you. for you.

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Photos: Stephanie Bembridge

R–L: Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, First Lady NaDeen Richardson with their children: Kayla, Jeremiah, Deven, Shannon and grandchildren, Lathan, and Lark

First Baptist Church of South Orange Pastor’s Anniversary Celebrated with Good Works

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The Positive Community March 2018

Interchurch Center MLK Celebration Photo: Bob Gore

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n Sunday February 18, 2018 the First Baptist Church of South Orange (FBCSO) recognized the 21st Anniversary of their pastor, Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson and First Lady NaDeen Richardson. As part of this celebration Rev. Richardson announced the collaboration with Pillar College to bring the LEAD Program to FBCSO, which would allow members and community to secure their Bachelor’s degree in as little as 20 months.

Dr. David Schroeder, president of Pillar College, was the guest speaker during the 9:45 am service. Keeping with the church mission of impacting the world, the FBCSO 21 Days of Service was announced during 11:30 am service, where Pastor Darrin Monroe of Chosen Generation Ministries was the guest speaker. The entire FBCSO membership will participate in community volunteer activities, coordinated by FBCSO for 21 days leading up to Pastor Richardson's birthday in May. Pastor Richardson is active in his South Orange Community, serving as a Democratic Party District Leader, and has been recently appointed to the South Orange Village Planning Board.

His community activism will also be recognized by the NAACP at their upcoming banquet in April.

Congratulations, Pastor Richardson for 21 years of service to the Lord and your community.

R–L: Dr. President of Pillar College David Schroeder and his wife, Betzi with Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson and First Lady NaDeen Richardson

L–R: Paula Mayo, president and executive director of The Interchurch Center; Rev. Dr. James Forbers, Jr.; and Rev. Dionne Bossiere, chaplain of the Church Center for the United Nations graciously took a moment to pose for this photo at the conclusion of The Interchurch Center annual celebration of the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rev. Dr. Forbes, senior pastor emeritus of The Riverside Church, lived up to his reputation as a spellbinding speaker and rendered an impassioned speech on Dr. King’s legacy. www.thepositivecommunity.com

2018 ESSEX COUNTY

Cherry Blossom Festival IN BRANCH BROOK PARK APRIL 7-15, 2018

Festival Events Saturday, April 7 ~ 7am-1pm

Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race Oval, Northern Division Sunday, April 8 ~ 10am

You’re invited to...

Saturday, April 14 ~ 11am-3pm

Essex County Branch Brook Park to enjoy the most diverse collection of Cherry Blossom Trees, even larger than the national display in Washington, DC. The blossoming trees create a picturesque setting that transforms the park into a stunning spring fantasyland. We invite you and your family to come out and experience this natural wonder.”

Concert Grove, Southern Division

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. Essex County Executive

Cherry Blossom 10k Run Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Extension Saturday, April 14 ~ 10am

1-Mile Fun Run/Walk

Concert Grove, Southern Division

Essex County Family Day

and the Board of Chosen Freeholders

Sunday, April 15 ~ 11am-5pm

Bloomfest!

Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Extension

Visit our website for more details and information WWW.ESSEXCOUNTYNJ.ORG

Guided Historic Park Tours Beginning Wednesday, April 18 Have our knowledgeable guides take you on a 45-minute journey under a canopy of cherry blossoms, pointing out the history hidden within Essex County Branch Brook Park’s structure and design!

Historic Cell Phone Tours Available ALL Season

PUTTING ESSEX COUNTY FIRST

This free self-guided historic walking tour can be accessed by cell phone or smart phone.

Spend the day exploring all 72 tour stops or pick and choose your favorites. One phone call unlocks a world of park history and horticultural information. ¡Ahora ofrecido en español! 973.433.9047

M Money

buiness, finance + work

L–R: NYC Comptroller Scott M. Stringer, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, and NYC Public Advocate Letitia James

Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman, AACEO president

Leon Ellis

Brooklyn Clergy and Elected Officials Monthly Meeting

Community Leaders Advocate For Social and Economic Justice

U

nique in the state of New York, Brooklyn pastors, priests, ministers, elected officials, and community stakeholders meet monthly under the aegis of the African American Clergy and Elected Officials (AACEO) organization to exchange information on

community issues at all levels of government. The coalition holds its meetings on the first Friday of every month at Antioch Baptist Church. Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman is senior pastor.

Founded in 1989, its mission is for clergy and elected officials to serve, strengthen, and empower parishioners and constituents of Brooklyn through advocacy and participation in areas deemed where social and economic injustice exists.

Photos: Lem Peterkin

Faith & Love Fuel His Vision

By Glenda Cadogan

Standing L–R: District Leader Darma Diaz, Brooklyn District Attorney, Eric Gonzalez, AACEO Chief of Operations Dee Bailey. Sitting L–R: Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman, and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries thepositivecommunity.com 12 The Positive Community March 2018

L–R: NYC Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, former Assemblyman Darryl Towns, former Congressman Edolphus Towns, and Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry Photos courtesy of Antioch Baptist Church

Summer 2017 The Positive Community 17 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Wall Street Project Economic Summit Civil Rights Movement Fourth Stage

Photos: Seitu Oronde

L–R: Susan L. Taylor founder of National CARES Mentoring; Karen Hunter, journalist; Rev. Jesse Jackson; Carla Harris, vice chair, Morgan Stanley; Rev. Jackson’s daughter, Santita Jackson; Dr. Julianne Malveaux,dormer president of Bennet College; and Cynthia DiBartolo, Esq.

L–R: Rev. Jesse Jackson; Cynthia DiBartolo, Esq. founder of Tigress Financial Partners; and Rev. Jackson’s son, Jonathan

“T

NYC Mayor Bill DeBlasio

L–R: Dr. Ben Chavis, chair of the National Newspaper Association; Wanda Durant, mother of basketball great Kevin Durant; actor, Michael K. Williams; and Ky Dele, founder of The Made Man Initiative

he struggle continues” were the words of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. as he kicked off the 21st Annual Wall Street Project Economic Summit, declaring that African-Americans are in the fourth stage of the Civil Rights Movement when it comes to diversity and inclusion on corporate boards.

The two-day event, February 8 and 9 at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, was sponsored by Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Citizenship Education Fund. The first day of the summit, “50 Years After the Assassination of Dr. King: The Struggle Continues for Freedom, Equity, and Inclusion in Corporate America” featured sessions on private equity investments, board diversity, minority procurement and other business opportunities, life after pro-sports, and new technology.

Rainbow PUSH Tech 2020 Co-Director Butch Wing announced a partnership between major technology firms and minority women and disabled veteran business enterprises (MWDVBE) in the financial sector, which targeted 10 companies resulting in 33 deals totaling $23

14

The Positive Community March 2018

million. “This partnership is based on the belief that civil rights and equal access should extend from Main Street to Wall Street to Silicon Valley,” said Jackson.

Friday’s theme “Building an Inclusive Equity Agenda to Promote Economic Empowerment,” featured New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio along with Carla Harris, vice chairman, managing director and senior client advisor at Morgan Stanley; and Karen Hunter, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and radio host, during the Diversity in Business Awards Luncheon, in partnership with Diversity Inc. Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke; Congressman Hakeem Jeffries; Cynthia D, DiBartolo, Esq., chair Greater New York Chamber of Commerce & CEO of Tigress Financial Partners LLC; Janice Mathis, president and CEO, National Council of Negro Women; and Suzanne Shank, chair and CEO, Siebert Cisneros Shank & Co., LLC served as honorary conference co-chairs.

Robert Smith, chair and CEO, VISTA Equity Partners and Rev. Al Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network, chaired the scholarship gala, which concluded the summit. —JNW www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Passaic NAACP Black History Month The Black Church and Uniting Our Community Institutions

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he Passaic Branch of the NAACP, under the leadership of Jeffery Dye and The Community Unity Leadership Council, hosted an African American History Month event on February 2, at Martin Luther King School, Passaic, NJ. The theme: The Black Church and Uniting Our Black Organizations.

Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, Rev. Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr., served as keynote speaker.

Special guest speakers included NJ Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.; Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., president General Baptist Convention of NJ and senior pastor Community B.C, Englewood, NJ; Rev. Ralph M. Branch, Jr., moderator of North Jersey Baptist Association; and Willie Blalock, VP, City National Bank.

Former NJ NAACP State President Dr. James E. Harris moderated a special panel discussion among these leaders.

Photo: Jeffrey Dye

L-R: Rev. Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr.; NJ Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.; Salim Muhammad; Jeffrey Dye; Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr.; Rev. Ralph M. Branch, Jr.; James E. Harris; and Willie Blalock

Plainfield Pastor Delivers Powerful Keynote at MLK Breakfast Photo: John Henry

We are proud to support The Positive Community.

YMCA Newark:

L–R: Rev. Hodari Hamilton, Newark Mayor Ras. J. Baraka, and Rev. Evans Spagner, NJ General Baptist Convention

855-iBank4U (855.422.6548) investorsbank.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

ev. Hodari K. Hamilton delivered an emotional keynote address at the annual Newark YMCA King Breakfast reception at the Robert Treat Hotel, Newark. Rev. Hamilton is senior pastor of Shiloh BC, Plainfield. Michael Bright is the president and CEO of YMCA, Newark.

March 2018 The Positive Community

17

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Finding an IT Partner

e’ve all been there: a desktop or laptop crashes, bringing productivity to a halt. If you’re lucky, you have a tech-savvy friend or hard-working employee who will go the extra mile to try to keep computers in working order. Or maybe you know an IT professional who is available to diagnose problems and resolve major issues.

The problem, though, is that when you REALLY need assistance — 4:00 PM on a Friday with a big deadline looming, say, or 8:00 AM on Monday when your inbox is full of important messages — that person may not be available to immediately react to your request for service. What then? Now you and your employees aren’t able to work while downtime affects productivity and decreases revenue.

Say you run a medical office with 20 employees that have an average salary of $50,000, an average yearly workload of 2,000 hours, and an average hourly rate of $25. Say your network is down for four hours and you can’t access email, software, or client records while you wait for IT help. Assuming that productivity is cut in half, if you multiply two hours of downtime at $25 an hour by 20 employees, you just paid your employees $1,000 to not perform their job duties. Add in the cost of that IT professional and it’s safe to say that your business is truly suffering.

If you’ve realized that it’s time to find a new IT provider, you’ve made an important step toward steadier operations and enhanced efficiency. But how do you protect your business while bringing on a new partner? How do you know if this new IT provider will maintain day-to-day operations and empower your employees to remain productive while the switch is happening? Maybe it’s better to stick with the lackluster support you know than risk everything on a fresh start.

But here’s the catch: in the long run, proactive IT services cost far less than reactive or break/fix services. Now, that doesn’t mean switching to a new IT provider isn’t stressful. You don’t just wake up one day and decide to switch your lawyer or your accountant — your IT provider should engender the same level of trust. With the right support, however, you shouldn’t be afraid to change. If you’re considering a new partner, consider this: Most of all, a new IT partner should work to serve your needs — and make you feel at ease. As many CMIT business owners testify, the most rewarding part of bringing on a new client is when they reveal that the transition was so easy they wish they’d done it sooner. Ready to make a change and add value to your business?

Contact CMIT Solutions today for more info. We worry about IT so you don’t have to.

1. Identify areas that demand immediate attention.

If you’re not backing up your data regularly (or your backup drive lives next to your computer), this critical need should be addressed first. Data loss can be devastating for a business, and many of the biggest cyber problems like malware and ransomware can be avoided with reliable, remote backups to ensure business continuity and stability of all devices.

2. Implement proactive 24/7 monitoring of your systems.

Does the IT service provider you’re considering specialize in a blend of proactive, preventative maintenance and around-the-clock monitoring? Does that provider have access to a Help Desk and Network Operations Center that utilizes the expertise of more than 800 knowledgeable technicians? If you’ve got an emergency, resources should be available to solve any problem in a timely manner.

3. Suggest services that fit your budget and your needs.

Proactive IT services provide better long-term value than reactive or break/fix services.

But that doesn’t mean you don’t still have real budgetary constraints. Your IT provider should understand them and be able to identify an appropriate course of action that solves short-term problems within means you can afford.

4. Come up with long-term strategies for hardware, software, and support upgrades.

No IT provider should ever recommend services that you don’t need or try to push expensive new software and hardware on your business. They should, however, work with you to identify areas where technological upgrades can make your business run more smoothly, and then lay out a strategy to efficiently plan for and implement those upgrades across the coming months and/or years.

5. Listen, listen, listen.

This flows from each of the previous four points. An IT provider should serve as a trusted advisor that understands your overall business goals, hears out your concerns, asks questions about your technology needs, and focuses on ways to improve your productivity and profitability. Once you decide to upgrade your current IT situation, your new provider should also work closely with your old provider to collect all necessary information and make the transition as smooth as possible.

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Most of all, a new IT partner should work to serve your needs — and make you feel at ease. As many CMIT business owners testify, the most rewarding part of bringing on a new client is when they reveal that the transition was so easy they wish they’d done it sooner. Ready to make a change and add value to your business?

Contact CMIT Solutions today for more info.

We worry about IT so you don’t have to.

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

Health ideas for wellness

Chaneyfield’s Triumph E

sther Paul, The Positive Community Intern from Essex County College, interviewed Councilwoman Gayle Chaneyfield-Jenkins in November 2017.

Congresswoman Gayle Chaneyfield-Jenkins is dedicated to serving her community. She recently led the effort to save Saint Michael’s Medical Center and is already planning on doing so much more. In an interview with The Positive Community, the Newark Councilwoman shed light on her work and influence in the city’s Central Ward, as well as her weight loss journey.

You were a councilwoman from 1995-2006, what made you run again in 2014?

Well, public policy is what drives government. I felt there was a lack of accountability to the residents and that public policy that would affect the community was not being addressed totally in a holistic way. I wanted to come back and add a sense of institutional knowledge regarding why certain laws and ordinances had been passed and to take the emphasis out of the political side and make it more about public policy. I wanted to be that bridge between the downtown development and the downtown business community with the neighborhoods, with the people who lived and are the indigenous people, and those new people who are moving into Newark. So I wanted to concentrate on helping to be that bridge.

But, I also understood that coming back on the city council, even though you represent a certain ward, your vote counts for all of the wards when you vote on development or public policy that’s happening in the various wards. So you officially represent a ward but your vote is cast on everything that goes on in the City of Newark.

You’ve accomplished much thus far, it there something that makes you most proud?

Saving Saint Michael’s Medical Center! Saint Michael’s has been around for 100-plus years and some people decided it would be okay to close it down. Those people didn’t consider the impact it would have on the 1,400 union workers’ jobs, and so it was critical to fight to keep it open for the people so they could have a choice of where they wanted to go for healthcare. I am very proud of helping the residents who watch the council meeting and see government taking place. I think it’s important to make transparent why these votes are taking place and what the impact of us voting on a project will have on taxpayers is now, but also for generations to come.

Let’s talk about your weight loss journey. What method of surgery did you use?

I had the process referred to as the sleeve.

Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

19

CHANEYFIELD Continued from previous page Why not take the natural route?

I wasn’t disciplined enough to do that. I had personal trainers and I went to the gym. I just found out that wasn’t the method I needed. I needed a jump start.

What triggered your decision to go with surgery?

Oh, well, I had a little urging from God. Food was a big part of my life. I attended the New York Restaurant School, so I loved to cook, and I love food. So, in 2014, I was having meetings and one day realized that I was forgetting things and forgetting what was said in meetings, and losing things in my home. I had always prided myself on having a great memory. I would speak and the words I wanted to say were not the words I was thinking.

How long did that last?

It was about two months.

What happened next?

I had four meetings scheduled back-to-back and by the third meeting, I couldn't remember what the conversation was. By the fourth meeting, I was panicstricken because I couldn't remember the three previous meetings. When I walked out of that meeting, I went into the car and I said to my aide Larry Muhammad, “take me to Saint Michael's — there is something wrong with me.” I was diagnosed with TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack), which is a warning stroke that was affecting my short-term memory. Two days later, after being released [from the hospital] I started talking about losing the weight. I was obese. I had to get the weight off. I qualified for the surgery and I started my journey.

Where did the surgery take place?

I went to Garden State Bariatrics and met with Doctor Michael Bilof. I had my surgery on August 20, 2015.

Doctor Bilof reassured me that I was going to be in good hands and I was.

Do they require psychological testing?

Oh, absolutely. You must go through a neurologist, a cardiologist, as well as a nutritionist. They require you to do a battery of tests in a time frame. You have to talk about why you think you gained the weight.

So, had you gained weight or was it a consistent problem throughout the years?

My weight became a consistent problem in 1991, after the death of my mom. Subsequently, between 1991 and 2011 I lost my sisters to breast cancer, so there was a void and I was filling that void with food and suffering from survivor’s guilt. Why them and not me?

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How much weight have you lost?

In the first week after the surgery, I lost about 20 pounds. Now, I've lost about 100 and something pounds. Prior to my mom's death, I was a size six, and I went up to as high as a size 24/26.

That’s great. Is your eating different from before?

Yes. I can eat beef, I can eat fried chicken if it has sauce on it, but I can’t eat Popeye’s chicken like I used to. I can’t eat salads. I also find that if I wait too late in a day to consume food it becomes overwhelming. I know my limits now. It makes you listen to your body.

So the surgery has helped with other complications, besides the weight loss?

Yes. I don’t have hypertension anymore, thank God. It has helped tremendously.

Are you happy with the outcome?

Listen, I was loving the fact that I could put an outfit on by that Friday, and by Monday it would be too big. I was loving the ability to get my life back. I hated stairs and exercising. I hated myself. I would look in the mirror, get dressed, and not be happy with who I was. This surgery has made me become in tune with my body. I feel like I conquered a fear.

That’s lovely. What is the next thing you are going to conquer?

The next thing I’m going to conquer is my procrastination about exercise. The things I thought were going to flab, didn’t flab. I have to get my body strong and I’m not there yet. There’s still strength training I need to do to become healthier.

How about politically?

Politically, I’m still working on doing good government.

How do you feel about Sheila Oliver’s election as lieutenant governor of New Jersey?

Sheila Oliver? Oh my Gosh, Sheila Oliver’s election, for me, was the redemption in the electoral process, in that it does work. Ms. Oliver being elected shows that an overly qualified woman can be elected by all nationalities, age groups, and across the socio-economic spectrum of this country. She helped bring Phil Murphy over the top. I'm so proud because she's a person who's always been independent, outspoken, and knows the public policy.

Editor’s note: On January 9, 2018 Councilwoman Jenkins launched her campaign for election as Mayor of the City of Newark. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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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.

Commit to Never Quit

N

othing great happens without commitment. If you are tired of starting over you must stop quitting! This is true of every endeavor we pursue including maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy lifestyle.

One thing I know for certain is people who reach their goals, lose weight, improve their strength, lose the gut, and achieve a healthy BMI—make a commitment to a lifetime of exercise and healthy eating. Keyword: commitment. Commitment is defined as the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc. It’s time to commit to the cause of being healthy and living well!

March is Women’s History Month and I feel compelled to look at the accomplishments of women in our community. The U.S. Census states that black women have the highest numbers for current enrollment in college. Black women have surpassed all other groups, having the highest percentage that is the most educated.

Congratulations my sisters! You are awesome, and we are proud of you. I have been fortunate enough to work with, minister to, counsel, and offer physical fitness training to some of these beautiful and powerful women, as well as call some of them mentors.

But there is another fact that I am compelled to share. No other population in the United States has a higher obesity rate than African American Women. Four out of Five are overweight or obese, according to a 2012 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How can African American women excel in education, career, and entrepreneurial endeavors, yet fail to maintain a consistent exercise program and/or a healthy weight? In an article titled “Why are 4 out of 5 Black Women Obese, Overweight,” Julie Palmer, a senior epidemiologist at Boston University’s stone Epidemiology Center, details some of these causes.

Palmer cites diet, motherhood, socioeconomic status and the environment. I would agree many of our sisters are overeating and making poor food choices. Having children is also a factor. My wife is on a journey to get back to her previous dress size “BK” (before kids). These are real factors that aid in the obesity epidemic facing women in our community.

But I would like to add another factor, lack of commitment.

When it comes to commitment, black women are the

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most committed people on the planet. Commitment to their faith, family, and forward progression are what makes black women so amazing. But when it comes to physical exercise, healthy eating, and fitness, unfortunately commitment for most is lacking.

So, what do we do? Glad you asked. Its simple: commit not to quit. Here is an excerpt from my 30-day devotional, Finish Strong: I am a longtime admirer of marathoners. Truthfully, I am even a fan of those who are in training for a marathon!

Thinking about the time and discipline that must be put in day in and day out to complete a marathon—all 26.2 miles of it—truly captivates my heart and imagination.

But I am equally impressed with those who decide to work out when it is not convenient, when it doesn’t feel good, or when there are some initial pangs of discomfort when a new exercise is introduced. Why? Because they are persevering. I have a slogan on my mirror that says, “Finish Strong.” Although I’m a big believer in new beginnings and starting right where you are, I have grown to appreciate the qualities of a finisher as it relates to getting fit. When we do what we have previously deemed impossible, it builds us physically and mentally. So, what’s the formula to help us when we begin our own personal wellness journeys? 1. Step out on faith; 2. Do the work; 3.

Persevere; 4. Mature; 5. Finish strong. To Finish Strong, commit not to quit!

You can do it my sister! The same commitment it takes to be educated, run a successful business, and move forward in life, is the identical commitment required to get healthier and fit through fitness.

You can do it. You are powerful. I believe in you. Commit not to quit.

Exercise Consistently, Eat Healthier, Live Well.

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

The Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness Invites your Preschool/School to come out and participate in the City’s 2018 Annual Immunization Awareness Walk Tuesday, April 24, 2018 10 A.M. KICK OFF NEWARK CITY HALL 920 BROAD STREET, NEWARK RAIN DATE: Thursday, April 26, 2018

“I walked a mile to save a child” FOR MORE INFORMATON PLEASE CALL IMMUNIZATION/PROJECT VACCINATE CALL-973-733-7580 FAX-424-4246

A

t Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, we take pride in providing excellent clinical care to our patients, as well as connecting with and empowering the communities we serve.

This year, our hospital will be front and center supporting the fight to defeat lung disease at the 2018 American Lung Association Fight for Air Climb in Newark, New Jersey. Newark Beth Israel is a major sponsor of this year’s climb.

As the only lung transplant center in the state of New Jersey and a leader in the treatment of advanced lung diseases, Newark Beth Israel has a unique stake in this race.

Our patients who are living with asthma, COPD, lung cancer and the impacts of air pollution already know how committed we are to improving their health. On April 7 we get to show the entire state just how dedicated we are to treating these patients and to one day eradicating these illnesses.

This year, the climb has an even greater significance for us because we will be honoring the memory of pediatric pulmonologist Dr. Sushmita Mikkilineni, who passed away last year.

Dr. Mikkilineni was a Board Member of New Jersey’s American Lung Association for more than 15 years and devoted her life to fighting pulmonary diseases, specifically childhood asthma.

I greatly value and appreciate the work that everyone at The Beth does every day for our patients and their families. I am looking forward to supporting my colleagues, our patients, and the American Lung Association at this year’s Fight for Air Climb!

To sign up for this year’s climb go to: action.lung.org/nbichonj

Sincerely, Darrell K. Terry, Sr., MHA, MPH, FACHE President and Chief Executive Officer Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey 2018 ALA Fight for Air Climb, Committee Chairperson

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The Positive Community March 2018

www.thepositivecommunity.com

A lung transplant could lead to more birthdays.

As the only hospital in the state that performs lung transplants, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center can provide a convenient location so friends and family can spend more time visiting and less time traveling.

To learn more about lung transplants, and support services such as pulmonary rehabilitation, pain management and smoking cessation, call 1-888-NJLung1 or visit rwjbh.org/lungtransplant

Let’s be healthy together.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

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NEWARK MAYORAL CANDIDATE Letʼs Make History Together!

Vote Team Chaneyfield Jenkins on May 8, 2018!

CRYSTAL FONSECA

RASHON K. HASAN

EAST WARD COUNCIL CANDIDATE

CENTRAL WARD COUNCIL CANDIDATE

KATILIA VELEZ

MECCA KEYES

NORTH WARD COUNCIL CANDIDATE

WEST WARD COUNCIL CANDIDATE

Council at-Large Candidates

BESSIE WALKER

ARIAGNA PERELLO

HECTOR CORCHADO

Download the free app, iamwithgayle, iTunes or Google Play.

Follow us on social media

@iamwithgayle

www.iamwithgayle.com Paid For By Team Chaneyfield Jenkins

Special Section

Anna Glass Lucinda Cross Tamika Stembridge Donna Walker Kuhne Dee Marshall

T

women to watch

he women featured in this section are living their best lives with passion, dedication, and spirit. Each one brings something different to the table—and they are definitely worthy of seats at the table—yet they all exhibit the common threads of generosity and community. We call them “Women to Watch” because we can all learn from them professionally and personally. Allow their simple wit and wisdom to inspire you to do your best and live your best.

You don’t have to be on this list to be worthy of the title. Whether you realize it or not, our children, our leaders—our entire community is watching. Also see page 58 The Last Word. www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

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Special Section

womentowatch

Lieutenant Governor of NJ Sheila Oliver: Making History and Shaping Heritage

By Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover

Z

ora Neale Hurston wrote, “I have been in sorrow’s kitchen and licked out all the pots.”

Langston Hughes wrote, “Tomorrow I’ll sit at the table and they’ll see how beautiful I am and be ashamed.”

Shirley Chisholm advised, “If they won’t let you sit at the table, bring a folding chair.”

Some people make history, others shape heritage. History makers can be content as an inspiring presence in public view while a presence without position in political reality.

History makers, relieved that “sorrow’s kitchen” is behind, can relish feasting at a table someone else has set. History makers as the enfleshed aspirations of generations, can be offended into distraction by the absence of shame, apology, or trace of genuine regret from their “peers” over the cost of systemically slanted goodwill.

Heritage shapers read the table as they decode the echoing cries of the casualties of cronyism and clout enthronement that fill the room. Heritage shapers make their own place, looking neither for apology nor affirmation. Heritage shapers are concerned about where the food came from, the digestibility of the menu, and how the leftovers will hold up when they get home. The difference

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between history makers and heritage shapers is that, regardless of the seat at the table, heritage shapers put all their weight down while history makers do not.

New Jersey’s Lieutenant Governor, Sheila Oliver, was on the heritage shaper track well before her inauguration. Surely, graduating from Weequahic, one of the top 100 high schools in the country at the time, as well as earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Lincoln University (where Langston Hughes and Thurgood Marshall studied) and a Master of Science in Planning and Administration from Columbia University, assisted with her ability to frame the complexity of our lived social narratives. Consequently, introducing viable programs and public policy came readily. She can be described as a dignified, intelligent, well-versed, articulate, and thick-skinned, independent thinker who is passionate for the work of the Department of Community Affairs she heads.

As the first African American woman to hold the position of Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey, Sheila Oliver is the second highest ranking official in State government and next in order of succession. Having also served as Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly, she is savvy

and no stranger to the weeds of Garden State politics and debates.

Kudos to our Lieutenant Governor, who can reset conversations and change menu options at whatever table she sits, without a taste for eating her words! Weighty responsibility has come into her hands “…And what she possesses should only be the means of preparing her to use the coming power for the glory of God and the good of mankind; for power without righteousness is one of the most dangerous forces in the world.” (Frances E.W. Harper at the Women’s Congress at the Columbian Exposition National Association of Colored Women, 1892) History makers are concerned with effecting emancipation; heritage shapers are concerned with also effecting empowerment. Both should come easily to Sheila Oliver, our first African American Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey.

Rev. Dr. Glover is senior pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, New Jersey.

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

womentowatch

powerrising.org

Powerful Voices of Women…

Silent No More!

By Jeannine LaRue

W

omen continue to crack the glass ceiling in C-Suites across the country as well as make tremendous gains in higher education, medicine, and the legal field. Now, women…specifically women of color, are making great strides in the political arena and could make historic wins in statewide and congressional races around the United States.

I joined almost 1,000 Black women at the inaugural Power Rising Summit held in Atlanta, February 22–25.

This unique, unprecedented national event was born out of a retreat of black female members of Congress shortly after the 2016 presidential election.

Power Rising’s mission—“to leverage our collective wisdom to develop strategic, actionable ways to build and maximize our economic and political power for the betterment of ourselves, our families, our communities, and our future.”

Throughout that weekend, it became clearer to me how much their actions in 2018 could prove to be among the most significant political statements that black women will make in history. It is undebatable that we are poised to be major players in statewide elections throughout this nation.

Already, New Jersey’s Lt. Governor, Sheila Oliver (D), has made history by becoming the first African American woman to be elected to a state-

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

wide office in the Garden State. Lt. Governor Oliver is in an exclusive club. Only two other black women now serve in statewide elected offices: Connecticut State Treasurer Denise Nappier (D) and Kentucky Lt. Governor Jenean Hampton (R).

To put these numbers in perspective, only 12 black women have held statewide elected office and no black woman has ever been elected governor in the nation.

Currently, 79 women are making a serious run for governor across the United States. Georgia’s Stacey Abrams, the first woman to lead either party in the Georgia General Assembly and the first African American leader in the State House, could become the first African American female governor in the United States of America.

When black women turn out in record numbers, they influence election results. Alabama’s special U.S. Senate election certainly demonstrates that large numbers of black women voters can make a difference.

It’s worthy to note black women voted in the highest numbers of any race or gender group in both the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections.

A recent report issued by Higher Heights Leadership Fund and the Center for American Women and Politics, “The Chisholm Effect: Black Women in American Politics” marks the 50th anniversary of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm’s election

as the first black woman in Congress. This document makes it clear that black women’s political muscle during this year’s midterm elections will be evidenced in new faces running for office and the impact of potential hopefuls getting into office.

The report points out that 19 black women currently serve in Congress: 18 black women representatives and one black woman senator. New Jersey is proudly the home to one of the black female representatives, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. Rep. Watson Coleman is the first black woman elected to Congress in New Jersey. It is extremely conceivable that New Jersey’s female representation in Congress will increase due to the strong women candidates on the ballot this year. New York is also proudly the home to one of the 18 women representatives, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke.

In this Women’s History Month, we celebrate victories of all women whose voices are being heard. We particularly celebrate the fact that black women are finding their voices in politics…and will be silent no more.

Ms. LaRue is founder of the well-known blog LaRuelist Report and senior vice president of the Kaufman Zita Group.

March 2018 The Positive Community March 2018 The Positive Community

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Special Section

womentowatch there’s something about

sheila Hon. Phil Murphy, Governor of New Jersey

New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver

In Sheila Oliver, New Jersey has a Lieutenant Governor with years of experience lifting up working families and ensuring those pushed to the margins of society have a chance to succeed. And, as the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs she brings a first-hand understanding of the many challenges that face our communities. Sheila is a leader in every sense, and an integral partner as we begin the process of building a stronger and fairer New Jersey that works for every resident.

Hon. Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of Newark, New Jersey

The election of Sheila Oliver as Lieutenant Governor is cause for celebration by all New Jersey residents and especially by the people of Newark. Sheila is family. She was born in Newark and has fought for social, economic and racial justice her entire life. Nobody understands the problems and strengths of our cities better than Sheila Oliver. Mayors know that we can count on Sheila, in her powerful role as head of the Department of Community Affairs, to energize job-creating economic development in our urban areas.

Hon. Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive

Sheila has dedicated her life to public service. I can think of no one else who has as much experience on all levels of government, combined with the compassion and dedication to help the less fortunate. She is a pioneer

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The Positive Community March 2018 The Positive Community March 2018

and trailblazer who has made history twice by becoming the first African-American woman to serve as Assembly Speaker and the first African-American to serve as Lt. Governor.

Susan Cole, President Montclair State University

Sheila Oliver is a highly knowledgeable and experienced public servant, and, throughout her career, she has been a staunch advocate for issues affecting the quality of life of the people of New Jersey. Now, in her capacity as Lt. Governor and as Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, she is positioned to broaden the scope of her policy making and leadership. From the perspective of the higher education community, and Montclair State University specifically, I am pleased that her new position gives her increased visibility as an excellent role model for students, demonstrating what education and determination can lead to in life. www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

womentowatch womentowatch

Former FormerNJ NJGovernor GovernorJim JimMcGreevey, McGreevey, Chairman, Chairman,New NewJersey JerseyReentry ReentryCorporation Corporation

Lt. Lt.Governor GovernorSheila SheilaOliver Oliverhas hasaalong longhistory historyofofcommitcommitment menttotosocial socialjustice. justice.Sheila Sheilahas hasaapassion passionand andadvocacy advocacy for forreentry, reentry,Sheila Sheilahas hassupported supported“second “secondchances,” chances,”and and Sheila’s Sheila’s legislation legislation provided provided for for addiction addiction treatment, treatment, housing, housing,training trainingand andemployment employmentfor forthose thosereturning returning home homefrom fromprison. prison.

Sister SisterFredrica FredricaBey, Bey, Chair/Executive Chair/ExecutiveDirector Director Women WomenInInSupport Supportof ofthe theMillion MillionMan ManMarch MarchInc. Inc.

When WhenSheila Sheilawas wasSpeaker SpeakerEmeritus, Emeritus,and andininline linetotobe bethe the first firstblack blackwoman womanLt. Lt.Governor Governorininthe theState StateofofNJ NJ(Living (Living Large), Large),she shefound foundititnot notrobbery robberytotostrongly stronglysupport supportthe the hearing hearingofofCitizens CitizensCoalition CoalitionofofNJ, NJ,for foraamoratorium moratoriumon on foreclosures. foreclosures.She Shesponsored sponsoredthe the2017 2017Assembly AssemblyBill Bill1538 1538 now nowthe the2018 2018Assembly AssemblyBill Bill#3119 #3119sponsored sponsoredby byAssemAssemblywoman blywomanCleopatra CleopatraTucker.

Tucker.We Webelieve believethat thatour ourbeloved beloved Lt. Lt.Governor GovernorSheila SheilaY.Y.Oliver, Oliver,will willcontinue continuetotosupport supporther her constituents constituents by by fulfilling fulfilling scripture, scripture, which which says, says, “As “As you you have havedone doneunto untothe theleast leastofofthese thesemy mypeople, people,so soyou youhave have done doneititunto untome.” me.”That Thatisisthe thekind kindofofspirit spiritwe weneed, need,and and that thatisisthe thekind kindofofspirit spiritwe wehave have(at (atlong longlast) last)ininthe theNJ NJ Governor’s Governor’soffice. office.Many Manythanks thanksand andcontinued continuedblessings blessings and andsuccess successtotoour ourbeloved belovedLt. Lt.Governor GovernorSheila SheilaY.Y.Oliver!

Oliver!

Nancy NancyCantor, Cantor, Chancellor, Chancellor,Rutgers RutgersUniversity–Newark University–Newark

Women’s Women’sHistory HistoryMonth Monthisisaagood goodopportunity opportunitytotorecogrecognize nizepioneering pioneeringwomen womenininNew NewJersey Jerseylike likeour ourpartner partner and andformer formerassemblywoman, assemblywoman,Lt. Lt.Gov GovShelia SheliaOliver.

Oliver.Like Like Shirley ShirleyChisolm Chisolmbefore beforeher, her,Shelia, Shelia,asaseducator, educator,activist activist and andelected electedofficial, official,isiscreating creatingnew newfootprints footprintsininour ourstate state government, government,and andwe weapplaud applaudher hercommitment commitmenttotoservice. service.

Yet, Yet,we weknow, know,that thather heraccomplishments accomplishmentsare arenot notsolely solelytoto commemorate commemorate‘firsts,’ ‘firsts,’but butrather rathertotocelebrate celebratethe theexamexample pleshe shehas hasset setfor forall allofofus ustotouse useour ourtalents talentsand andopporopportunities tunitiestotoimprove improvethe thelives livesofofothers. others.

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Hon. Hon.Mildred MildredC. C.Crump, Crump, President, President,Newark NewarkMunicipal MunicipalCouncil Council

The Theelection electionofofthe theHonorable HonorableSheila SheilaY.Y.Oliver Oliverisishistorhistoricic and and represents represents an an unprecedented unprecedented accomplishment. accomplishment.

As As New New Jersey’s Jersey’s FIRST FIRST African-American African-American Lieutenant Lieutenant Governor, Governor,she sheisisan anicon iconand andaareminder reminderthat thatanything anything isispossible possibleififyou youjust justbelieve. believe.Many Manyyoung youngwomen womenwho who only only dream dream ofof their their future future will will now now say say “Yes “Yes I I Can.” Can.” Hon. Hon.Bonnie BonnieWatson WatsonColeman, Coleman, Congresswoman CongresswomanNJ NJ12th 12thDistrict District

When WhenShelia SheliaOliver Oliverwas waselected electedLieutenant LieutenantGovernor, Governor,itit was wasan anabsolute absoluterejection rejectiontotothe themisguided misguidedand andreckless reckless policies policiesthat thatour ourstate stateendured enduredunder underthe theprevious previousadminadministration, istration,and andwhat whatwe wesee seeoccurring occurringininthe theWhite WhiteHouse.

House.

She Shehas hasalways alwaysdedicated dedicatedherself herselftotofully fullydiving divinginto intothe the issues issuesthat thataffect affectNew NewJerseyans Jerseyansand andworking workingtotomake makesure sure that thatthose thoseininthe thegreatest greatestneed needare aremade madeaapriority. priority.Shelia Shelia Oliver Oliverand andI Irepresent representmany manyfirsts firstsfor forNew NewJersey Jerseyand andI I look lookforward forwardtotothe theday daywhen whenthose thoseachievements achievementsare areno no longer longerconsidered consideredground-breaking, ground-breaking,but butsimply simplywhat whatisis expected expectedfrom fromour ourgreat greatstate. state.

Hon. Hon.Ronald RonaldL.L.Rice, Rice, New Newjersey jerseyState StateSenator Senator

I I believe believe the the Governor Governor did did aa good good job job inin appointing appointing Speaker SpeakerOliver, Oliver,who whoisisnow nowLt. Lt.Governor.

Governor.For ForNew NewJersey Jersey ititmeans meansthat thatwe wehave havesomeone someonewho whounderstands understandsthe thestate state issues. issues.She Shewas wasthe theSpeaker Speakerand andI Ithink thinkit’s it’sgoing goingtotobe be good goodfor forall allofofus. us.Her Herexperience experiencegives givesher heraawealth wealthofof knowledge. knowledge.She’s She’sgood goodfor forthe theGovernor’s Governor’scabinet cabinetiningengeneral. eral.Lt. Lt.Governor GovernorOliver Oliverhas hasmore moreexperience experienceiningoverngovernment mentthan, than,probably, probably,most mostpeople peoplewho whoare arecoming cominginto into the theadministration. administration.She Shecertainly certainlyknows knowshow howthe thegoverngovernment mentworks worksininboth bothhouses housesofofthe thelegislature legislatureasaswell wellasasthe the administration. administration.That Thatininand andofofitself itselfisisan anasset. asset.

31 March March2018 2018 The ThePositive PositiveCommunity Community 31 March 2018 The Positive Community 31

Special Section

womentowatch

Questions Answered

by Women to Watch Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine—

Anna Glass

Executive Director Dance Theatre of Harlem

TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what you were meant to do?

Anna Glass: Now especially! I am both humbled and proud to serve as the executive director of the world’s historic Classical Ballet Company, a company that reinforced my passion for dance. It’s also a company where I can use my skills as an attorney to provide a legal safe haven for the company to grow. Given the opportunity to continue to serve the company, it was clear that I had come full circle and it was my destiny to serve in even a greater capacity.

TPC: What is unique about what you do?

AG: I actually get to see transformations in the lives of young

dancers. While maintaining performing arts that have historic and cultural significance, I am fueled with purpose as I see one child, one dancer at a time bloom into this excellent professional.

TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated?

AG: Seeing other people “get it” and become motivated as

and loved me through the lessons of bad choices and the rewards of good ones.

TPC: Do you feel women are having a moment? If so why?

AG: Women have contributed to every moment in time.

Dance Theatre of Harlem has shattered many obstacles in society, and the field of classical dance, to fully embrace the contributions of diverse communities. Even with the huge leaps we’ve made towards inclusion, many barriers still exist. My work continues and is motivated by the need to bring about change in the dance world. To ensure that our DTH School students can attend the performance of a major dance company and see themselves represented on that stage.

TPC: Many women not only work hard to succeed in our professional

lives, but also to raise our families and have full personal lives. Do you think it really is possible to have it all and if so, what advice would you give women who are trying?

AG: Yes, I am an example. It requires personal choices that only the individual can weigh for themselves.

well. I am clear about my purpose and the power of the performing arts. Though I am humbled by the honor to lead this prestigious institution, I am proud that it is also a dream fulfilled. Now, in our 49th season, Dance Theatre of Harlem continues to lead the vision where ballet belongs to everyone.

TPC: How has your faith informed your professional and personal life?

AG: Belief and hope go hand in hand when you aspire for

TPC: To what do you attribute your success? How did you get where

es, watching them on TV, going to museums, or enjoyable reading and valuable conversation with others. Having a young child and husband shapes much of my free time to be inclusive and build upon activities we can share.

you are today, and who/what helped you along the way?

AG: My success was not a direct line. I always loved dancing and performing, but was encouraged to attend law school.

I am a licensed attorney in New York State, but have always followed my passion by working in the arts. Learning and embracing Arthur Mitchell’s mission; watching Artistic Director and DTH Company alumna Virginia Johnson, I knew if I could offer my expertise in some part to this legacy and help transform lives, that would be my definition of success. My parents, to no small degree, always supported my aspirations

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The Positive Community March 2018

anything TPC: How do you spend your free time?

AG: I enjoy art and culture — whether attending performanc-

TPC: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?

AG: Love what you do. Do what you do with love. Nothing is easy; it’s far more complex. But, ask yourself, “Do I inspire myself and can what I do help someone else?” At the end of the day, that will be the measure of your happiness and success.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Special Section Special Section

womentowatch womentowatch

Questions Answered by Women Answered to Watch Questions

by Women to Watch Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine—

TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what TPC: Many women not only you were meant to do?

Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine—work hard to succeed in our Lucinda Cross: Yes, when two young girls came to me with professional lives but also to tears in their eyes after my presentation in L.A., saying raise our families TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what TPC: Many womenand not have only they were about to make the same mistake I did until they full personal lives. you were meant to do? work hard to succeedDo in you our heard myCross: story. Yes, I realized my young work in speaking it really possible Lucinda when two girls came tomy metruth with think professional livesis but also to to and power is bigger than me. in L.A., saying have and if and so, what tearssharing in theirmyeyes after my presentation raise it ourallfamilies have would you giveDo women they were about to make the same mistake I did until they advice full personal lives. you Lucinda Cross TPC: What is unique about what you do? who are trying? heard my story. I realized my work in speaking my truth think it really is possible to President, Activate WorldWide LC: My abilitymy topower connect and speak possible it Leadership and Professional and sharing is bigger thanwith me. true authenticity LC: haveItitisall and iftoso,have what Development Coaching and vulnerability, create collaborations, and share infor- advice all, butwould something is going you give women mation most peopleabout holdwhat to themselves—fearful of giving who to bearesacrificed.

Lucinda Cross TPC: What is unique you do? trying? As a mom President, Activate WorldWide too much. of three and a wife, I must sacrifice my personal time and LC: My ability to connect and speak with true authenticity LC: It is possible to have it Leadership and Professional be very strategic about keeping the family functioning.

I Development Coaching and vulnerability, create collaborations, and share infor- all, but something is going TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? multitask, and I ask for help.

There is no way to manage mation most people hold to themselves—fearful of giving to be sacrificed. As a mom LC: My motivation comes from having fun and celebrating it unless ask for HELP. We don’t to do it alland to too much. ofall three andwe a wife, I must sacrifice my have personal time every milestone, large or small. Everything about me is a have it all. be very strategic about keeping the family functioning. I cause for celebration.

I am going tostay celebrate this honor multitask, and I ask for help. There is no way to manage TPC: How do you motivate yourself and motivated? of listed as a comes Woman to Watch.

How has your informed your professional LC:being My motivation from having fun and celebrating TPC: it all unless we ask forfaith HELP. We don’t have to do it alland to personal life? every milestone, large or small. Everything about me is a have it all.

TPC: To do you attribute your success?

How this did you get LC: I understand God is working with me and for me; I cause forwhat celebration.

I am going to celebrate honor where you are today, and who/what helped you along the way? have Godyour to know is not option andand all of being listed as a Woman to Watch.

TPC: faith How inhas faith failure informed youranprofessional LC: My mother gave me tough love as the oldest with three things will work out for my good.

There were times when personal life? younger brothers.

Sheattribute always told to actHow like did a lady wanted to throw God in theis towel andwith give me up, and but Ifor realized TPC: To what do you your me success? youand get ILC: I understand working me; I work like a boss.

She pushed me from 10 years old to think that if I did, I would not be operating in faith but fear. where you are today, and who/what helped you along the way? have faith in God to know failure is not an optioninand all out of the box; to always do things that are unpredictable.

LC: My mother gave me tough love as the oldest with three things will work out for my good. There were times when Iyounger got herebrothers. today byShe turning mytold frustration into fortune.

Howto dothrow you spend yourtowel free time? always me to act likemy a lady and ITPC: wanted in the and give up, but I realized Iwork became my own client and in doing so, I was able to proLC: Self-care, reading, having fun withinmy kids, and like a boss. She pushed me from 10 years old to think that if I did, I would not be operating faith but in sponfear. vide a solution for others. taneous date nights with my husband. out of the box; to always do things that are unpredictable.

I got here today by turning my frustration into my fortune.

Do you feel client womenand are in having righttonow?

ITPC: became my own doingaso,moment I was able proIf so, why? vide a solution for others.

LC: Women are supporting one another with conviction and sticking rather than competing.

TPC: passion, Do you feel womentogether are having a moment right now?

We’re sharing our pain and realizing sticking together If so, why? will enforce change, not separating ourselves.

Women are LC: Women are supporting one another with conviction coming together as one unit.

We are realizing WE ARE and passion, sticking together rather than competing.

NOT in our insecurities, We’re ALONE sharing our painchallenges, and realizing sticking passions, together and even our purposes. will enforce change, not separating ourselves. Women are

what would it be? taneous date nights with my husband.

LC: Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. When you on one being without looking at someTPC: focus If you had piecegreat of advice to someone just starting out, one else, you rise to the top.

Comparison drags you what would it be? down, keeps you unfocused, and keeps else. your When ideas LC: Don’t compare yourself to anyone in a box.

Express your brand the best way you can. you focus on being great without looking at someLet nothing and no one distract you from being one else, you rise to the top. Comparison drags you great. down, keeps you unfocused, and keeps your ideas

coming together as one unit. We are realizing WE ARE NOTTheALONE in our challenges, 34 Positive Community Winter 2018insecurities, passions, and even our purposes.

in a box. Express your brand the best way you can.

Let nothing and no one distract you from being www.thepositivecommunity.com great.

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The Positive Community Winter 2018 The Positive Community March 2018

TPC: How do you spend your free time?

TPC: If you hadreading, one piecehaving of advice someone out, LC: Self-care, funto with my just kids,starting and spon-

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

womentowatch womentowatch

Questions Answered . . .

Questions Answered . . .

TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what you were meant to do?

TPC: Was there a moment Tamika I am when youStembridge: realized you were doblessed to have had ing what you were meant tosevdo? eral moments, with each Tamika Stembridge: I am step meaningful blessedbeing to have had sevin the moment, andeach (in eral moments, with hindsight) necessary in the step being meaningful grand of things. in thescheme moment, and (in hindsight) necessary in the TPC: What is unique about grand scheme of things. what you do?

TS: the isperfect TPC:It’s What unique blend about of passion, gut-sense, inwhat you do? dustry-knowledge with Tamika Stembridge TS: It’s the perfect blend Executive Director practical profesof passion,insight, gut-sense, indfree®Global Foundation sionalism, authentic focus dustry-knowledge with Tamika Stembridge on and connection with Executive Director practical insight, profespeople, and “theFoundation work!” I can gosionalism, from high-level strategy to dfree®Global authentic focus the weeds of detail without missing a beat.

I believe that you on and connection with should able think it AND it, from concept to exepeople,be and “thetowork!”

I can godo from high-level strategy to cution, if necessary; all in a manner that makes people the weeds of detail without missing a beat. I believe that feel you valued, well-served, inspired, anddoequipped to take action. should be able to think it AND it, from concept to execution, if necessary; all in a manner that makes people feel TPC: How do you motivate yourself stay motivated? valued, well-served, inspired, andand equipped to take action.

TS: Beyond staying fueled with books, podcasts, and a power playlist (from The Clark Sisters The Sounds of PhilaTPC: How do you motivate yourself andtostay motivated? delphia with a little Beyonce sprinkled in), I’ve found that TS: Beyond staying fueled with books, podcasts, and a pownothing motivates me more than a little sunlight and seat er playlist (from The Clark Sisters to The Sounds of“a Philaat the table” (my desk).

Action is the best motivator.

DO… delphia with a little Beyonce sprinkled in), I’ve found that get done…feel accomplished anda DO more! nothing motivates me more than littlesome sunlight and “a seat at the table” (my desk). Action is the best motivator. DO… TPC: To what do you attribute yourand success?

How did you get where get done…feel accomplished DO some more! you are today, and who/what helped you along the way?

TS: loves like really me…

I have nevTPC:God To what do me, you attribute yourloves success?

Howand did you get where er been afraid of hard work!

My parents and grandparents you are today, and who/what helped you along the way? weren’t super strict, nor direct in terms of their expectaTS: God loves me, like really loves me… and I have nevtions of me.

ButofI’ve always well, andand they have always er been afraid hard work!done My parents grandparents encouraged me to pursue whatever I wanted.

I’m really weren’t super strict, nor direct in terms of theirnot expectaations fan of of me. losing or being less than the best.

So I know that if But I’ve always done well, and they have always Iencouraged pray hard and work hard, the things I want to achieve will me to pursue whatever I wanted. I’m not really be within reach,orinbeing due time.

I alsothe research EVERYTHING! a fan of losing less than best. So I know that if I pray hard and work hard, the things I want to achieve will TPC: Do you feel women aretime. having a moment rightEVERYTHING! now? If so, why? be within reach, in due I also research TS: We are women. It is ALWAYS our moment! Even when we allow thefeel world toare pretend not; with TPC: Do you women havingit’s a moment rightgrace, now? Ifhumility, so, why? style, and grit…we get it done!

Women make the world goTS: We are women. It is ALWAYS our moment! Even when round! we allow the world to pretend it’s not; with grace, humility, style, and grit…we get it done! Women make the world goround! www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

TPC: Many women not only work hard to succeed in our profession-

al lives, but also to raise our families and have full personal lives.

Do you think it really is possible to have it all and if so, what advice TPC: Many women not only work hard to succeed in our professionwould trying?and have full personal lives. al lives,you butgive alsowomen to raisewho ourare families TS: I made time for love, intentionally, backif so, in 2015 (e.g., Do you think it really is possible to have it all and what advice hired a dating coach)…that effort has served me well.

I am would you give women who are trying? dating a man I really love (and he loves me just the same).

TS: I made time for love, intentionally, back in 2015 (e.g., Though I am not married, effort nor dohas I have a me child yet,I am my hired a dating coach)…that served well. prayer is those two things blend harmoniously into the symdating a man I really love (and he loves me just the same). phony that is my I believenor we do each have the capacity for Though I am notlife. married, I have a child yet, my whatever is “enough” for us at the moment.

You have to be prayer is those two things blend harmoniously into the symgrateful for what you have, know your “enough,” and make phony that is my life. I believe we each have the capacity for room as your vision offor “enough” whatever is “enough” us at theexpands. moment. You have to be grateful for what you have, know your “enough,” and make TPC: has your faith informed your professional and roomHow as your vision of “enough” expands. personal life?

TS: gone church all of myyour life,professional gave my life TPC:I’d How hasto your faith informed andto Christ at age 13, prayed religiously whenever life was super good personal life? or super tough, but at my lowest points that just wasn’t TS: I’d gone to church all of my life, gave my life to Christ enough.

It wasn’t until I committed to studying the Bible at age 13, prayed religiously whenever life was super good on my own — for myself — that everything started make or super tough, but at my lowest points that justtowasn’t sense.

I often feel like living is a constant state the of prayer enough.

It wasn’t untilmyI committed to studying Bible –onthanking God, asking God, waiting for God, trusting God, my own — for myself — that everything started to make hearing from God, and thanking God some more.

Jesus is sense. I often feel like my living is a constant state of prayer my unfailing answer, always.

– thanking God, asking God, waiting for God, trusting God, hearing from God, and thanking God some more. Jesus is TPC:unfailing How do you spendalways. your free time? (hobbies, volunteering, etc.) my answer, TS: Mentoring, coaching, and I love being at home, reading, spending the sun,volunteering, scrolling InstaTPC:daydreaming, How do you spend your freetime time?in(hobbies, etc.) gram, and spending time with my family, friends, boyfriend, TS: Mentoring, coaching, and I love being at home, readand myself! I still shop a little,time tooin (within budget, though)! ing, daydreaming, spending the sun, scrolling Instagram, and spending time with my family, friends, boyfriend, TPC:myself!

If you had piecea little, of advice someonebudget, just starting out, and I stillone shop tooto(within though)! what would it be?

TS: go of situations, excuses, TPC:Let If you hadthe onethings piece of(people, advice tostuff, someone just starting out, etc.) holding you down, back, or that YOU are holding too what would it be? tightly.

Make room, and do the work!

God’s promises to TS: Let go of the things (people, stuff, situations, excuses, deliver on the desires of our heart are sincere, but we have etc.) holding you down, back, or that YOU are holding too to be open, and (the faith and the tightly.

Makeready, room,willing, and do theworking work! God’s promises to fingers) to fully receive them! deliver on the desires of our heart are sincere, but we have to be open, ready, willing, and working (the faith and the fingers) to fully receive them!

Stay connected @TheFreeBlackGirl Instagram), @OGFreeBlackGirl (Twitter)!

Stay connected @TheFreeBlackGirl Instagram), To learn more about dfree® Financial Freedom Movement, visit @OGFreeBlackGirl (Twitter)! www.mydfree.org!

To learn more about dfree® Financial Freedom Movement, visit www.mydfree.org!

March 2018 The Positive Community

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March 2018 The Positive Community March 2018 The Positive Community

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Special Section Special Section

womentowatch womentowatch

Questions Answered Questions by Women Answered to Watch

by Women to Watch Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine—

TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what TPC: Many women not only Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine— you were meant to do? work hard to succeed in our proDonna Walker Kuhn: Yes, working with Arthur Mitchell at fessional lives, but also to raise TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what Manyand women The Dance Theatre of Harlem crystallized the need to en- TPC: our families havenot full only peryou were meant to do? work hard to succeed in progage communities of color for the arts. I felt very comfort- sonal lives. Do you thinkour it realDonna Walker Kuhn: Yes, working with Arthur Mitchell at lives, but also raise Donna Walker Kuhne able doing this and I could apply my passion and love of fessional ly is possible to have it alltoand if President The Dance Theatre of Harlem crystallized the need to enour families and have full perdance as well as my skills as a lawyer. so, what advice would you give Walker Communications Group gage communities of color for the arts. I felt very comfort- sonal lives.

Do you think it realwomen who are trying?

Donna Walker Kuhne able doing this and I could apply my passion and love of DWK: ly is possible to have it allaccomplish and if TPC: What is unique about what you do?

I think we can anythingPresident we choose. It is a dance as well as my skills as a lawyer. so, whatof advice would and you give Walker Communications Group DWK: I have created a strategy for community engagement matter priorities being organized.

Everything has a women who are trying? that is universal, effective, tactical and, non-threatening for cost so within 24 hours a day, you choose where to focus your TPC: What is unique about what you do?

DWK: I think we can accomplish anything we choose. It is a white institutions to explore. time.

I believe when you are 100% present whether it’s at DWK: I have created a strategy for community engagement matter organized. has a home orofinpriorities the office,and youbeing then do have it all,Everything it’s not as much that is universal, effective, tactical and, non-threatening for cost so within 24 hours a day, you choose where to focus your TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? a matter of balance, as it is being present 100%. white institutions to explore. time.

I believe when you are 100% present whether it’s at DWK: My religious practice as a proud member of the Budhome or in the office, you then do have it all, it’s not as much dhist community and member of SGI-USA enables me to TPC: How has your faith informed your professional and TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? matterlife? of balance, as it is being present 100%. fulfill my voice every day to create world peace. I believe apersonal DWK: My religious practice as a proud member of the Budthat building harmonious communities through the arts DWK: I would not have the success I experience now without dhist community member SGI-USA to being TPC: How has your faith informed your professional and enables people toand respect eachofother, be enables curious me about a Buddhist. This practice enables me to continue to fulfill my voice every day to create world peace.

I believe personalmy life? each other, and therefore share mutual experiences about polish life, to be the best person, to take full responsibilthat building harmonious communities through the arts DWK: I would not have the success I experience now without diverse cultures. ities for my actions, to be protected, and always land in envienables people to respect each other, be curious about being a Buddhist. practice enables me In to my continue to TPC: To what do you attribute your success? How did you get where ronments where myThis work can grow and soar. personal each other, and therefore share mutual experiences about polish my life, to be the best person, to take full responsibilyou are today, and who/what helped you along the way? life, my faith enables me to be happy every single day and diverse cultures. ities for my actions,my to destiny. be protected, and land in enviDWK: My mom was and still is a central force in my life. to know I control It is up toalways the causes I make TPC: To what do you attribute your success? How did you get where ronments where my work can grow and soar.

In my personal I have two sisters and she raised us to believe we can do through my prayers and actions that determine the kind of you are today, who/what helped youtoalong the way? I have life, faith enables me to be happy every single day and anything, go and anywhere, and strive be excellent. life Imy have.

DWK: My mom was and still is a central force in my life. to know I control my destiny. It is up to the causes I make never not believed this. I’ve also had wonderful mentors Ialong havethe twoway sisters and she raised us to believe we can do through my that determine the kindetc.) of to help me shape my ideas and inspire me— TPC: How do prayers you spendand youractions free time? (hobbies, volunteering, anything, go anywhere, and strive to be excellent.

I have life I have.

Daisaku Ikeda, president of SGI_USA, my spiritual mentor; DWK: I am very active in the SGI, supporting our members never believed I’ve C. also had wonderful mentors in their practice, developing our Lecture of Peace Series, Arthurnot Mitchell; andthis.

George Wolfe. along the way to help me shape my ideas and inspire me— TPC: How at do our you spend yourmeetings free time? and (hobbies, volunteering, etc.) speaking general festivals,and nurturDaisaku Ikeda, president of SGI_USA, my spiritual mentor; DWK: I am very active in the SGI, supporting our members TPC: Do you feel women are having a moment right now? ing our youth.

Arthur Mitchell; and George C. Wolfe. in their practice, developing our Lecture of Peace Series, If so, why? speaking at had our one general meetings festivals,and nurturYes, we are finding our voices and using our power. There TPC: If you piece of advice toand someone just starting out, TPC: Do you feel women are having a moment right now? ing our youth. are examples worldwide of women speaking up whether it’s what would it be?

If so, why? against religious bias, equity in pay, sexual harassment, or a DWK: Get a mentor, get several if you can—to guide you Yes, aretable. finding our voices and using our power. There through TPC: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, seat we at the This is our time. your life on all levels. are examples worldwide of women speaking up whether it’s what would it be? against religious bias, equity in pay, sexual harassment, or a DWK: Get a mentor, get several if you can—to guide you seat at the table. This is our time. through your life on all levels.

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The Positive Community Winter 2018

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A joyous musical celebration!

CROWNS Written and Directed by

REGINA TAYLOR

MARCH 13 – APRIL 1

Adapted from the book by

MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM and CRAIG MARBERRY

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Special Section Special Section

womentowatch womentowatch

Questions Answered Questions by Women Answered to Watch

by Women to Watch Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine—

TPC: Was there a moment when you realized you were doing what happening because we have Questions presented by The Positive Community Magazine— you were meant to do? found our voices. We have Dee Marshall: I was speaking to a small group of people found our super power and TPC: a moment when but you itrealized were doing because we have and itWas was there the very first time, felt soyou natural.

I felt what as if happening we are not afraid to show up you were meant to do? found our voices.

We have I were at home. It felt like a key to open the lock and was so in the world for our beliefs.

Dee Marshall: I was speaking to afor small groupI wanted of people power and powerful because I had asked God answers. to found Womenour aresuper also banding toand it was the very first time, but it felt so natural.

I felt as if we are not afraid to up know who I am, whose I am, why I’m here, and where I’m gether and cheeringshow for one Dee Marshall Igoing. were at home. Ityou felthave like atokey open the lock andwait wasfor so in the world for our beliefs.

I believe asktothe question and another.

Certified Coach, International powerful because I had asked God for answers. I wanted to Women are also banding toSpeaker & TV Lifestyle Expert His response. know who I am, whose I am, why I’m here, and where I’m TPC: getherMany and cheering for one women not only Dee Marshall going.What I believe youabout havewhat to ask another.

Certified Coach, International TPC: is unique youthe do? question and wait for work hard to succeed in our professional lives, but also to raise our Speaker & TV Lifestyle Expert His response.

DM: I am here on purpose and for a very specific purpose families and have full personal lives. Do you think it really is possiTPC: Many women only advice would you give women who that God called me to. What is unique is the work that I do ble to have it all and ifnot so, what TPC: What is unique about what you do? work hard to succeed in our professional lives, but also to raise our and how I do it. Everything I do is what many would call are trying?

DM: I am here on purpose and for a very specific purpose families and have full personal lives. Do you think itwhat really“having is possifaith-based, however I do it in such a way that I am coloring DM: Yes, you can. But it’s necessary to define that God called me to.

What is unique is the work that I do ble to have it all and if so, what advice would you give women who outside of the lines. I show up bold and unapologetic where it all” means for you, what it will take, and what it will cost. and how I do it.

Everything I do is what many would call are trying? ever I go, knowing that I got in the door because God creat- The problem is so many of us don’t know how to manage it faith-based, DM:We Yes, youindex can. in But it’s necessary define “having ed room forhowever my gift. I do it in such a way that I am coloring all. over career and workto and don’twhat give enough outside of the lines. I show up bold and unapologetic where it all” means for you, what it will take, and what it will cost. time, energy, and effort into life management. ever I go, knowing that I got in the door because God creatThe problem is so many of us don’t know how to manage it TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? ed room for my gift. all.

We over index in career and work and don’t give enough DM: I stay motivated by connecting with amazing people.

TPC: How has your faith informed your professional and energy, Seeing what other people are up to in the world keeps me time, personal life? and effort into life management.

TPC: How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? high. I am so in awe of women and how it is we do what we DM: My work is fully aligned with my faith. I made an intenDM: I stay connecting people. tional TPC: How hasmany your faith professional and do and thatmotivated keeps me by motivated to usewith my amazing gifts and grow. effort yearsinformed ago to your resolve incongruences, so I Seeing what other people are up to in the world keeps me now personal life?

I do work I’ve been purposed to do. In terms of my high.To I am sodo inyou aweattribute of women howHow it isdid we you do what we personal DM: My work fully faith.

I made an intenTPC: what your and success? get where life, is I try myaligned best towith be amy doer of the Word, so my do and that keeps me motivated to use my gifts and grow. tional effort many years ago to resolve incongruences, so I you are today, and who/what helped you along the way? daily life is attempting to do right by God. I fall short every now I do work I’ve been purposed to do.

In terms of my DM: I attribute my success to Dee’s Dozen, my own personday but I get up the next day and try again.

TPC: To what do you attribute your success?

How did you get where personal life, I try my best to be a doer of the Word, so my al guides to living: 1. Following God, 2. Being a student of you are andgood who/what you along way? daily lifeyou is spend attempting totime? do right

by God. I fall short life andtoday, taking notes,helped 3. Serving andthevolunteering,4.

How do your free (Hobbies, volunteering, etc.)every DM: I attribute my success to Dee’s Dozen, my own personday but I get up the next day and try again.

Amazing mentors, 5. Following my passion and purpose, 6. DM: I’m a huge spa buff, I love time with family and al guides my to living: 1. Following God, 2. Being a student of friends. I do read. I love to jet ski. I recently visited a horse Pursuing authentic self, 7. Self-discovery, 8. Networking, life and taking good notes, 3.

Serving and volunteering,4.

How dowhich you spend free time?of (Hobbies, volunteering, 9. Simply speaking into existence what I wanted for my life, track, is a your big interest mine to learn howetc.) to ride Amazing mentors, 5.

Following my passion and purpose, 6.

DM: I’m a huge spa buff, I love time with family and 10. Structure and success habits, 11. Personal growth, 12. and ride more.

Pursuing my authentic self, 7. Self-discovery, 8. Networking, friends. I do read. I love to jet ski. I recently visited a horse God’s grace 9. Simply speaking into existence what I wanted for my life, track, is aone bigpiece interest of mine to learn to ride TPC: Ifwhich you had of advice to someone just how starting out, 10.

Structure and success habits, 11.

Personal growth, 12. and ride more.

TPC: Do you feel women are having a moment right now? what would it be?

God’s grace If so, why?

DM: “Follow your purpose not the world.” In other words, TPC: If you oneplaced piece ofhere advice someone just starting out, DM: Women are having a moment right now and I believe it’s do what youhad were on to earth to do.

TPC: Do you feel women are having a moment right now? what would it be?

If so, why?

DM: “Follow your purpose not the world.” In other words, DM: The Women areCommunity having a moment right now and I believe it’s do what you were placed here on www.thepositivecommunity.com earth to do.

38 Positive Winter 2018

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Okoye

Queen Ramonda

Cultural Inspirations for the Clothing Of Black Panther’s Wakanda

BY R.L. WITTER

N

ow that most of us have made at least one trip to Wakanda (okay, I’ve made three and will likely go again), we can finally discuss some of the fantastic sights and sounds we experienced in Marvel’s Black Panther movie. Beyond how gorgeous the cast is and the amazing technology depicted in Wakanda, I was mesmerized by the attention to detail regarding the Wakandan people and how director Ryan Coogler used inspiration from throughout The Continent to create these fictional African people. Let’s learn about the real-life cultural inspirations for some of the clothing, sounds, and accessories.

One character who seemed to draw my attention whenever he was on the screen was the River Tribe Elder, played

by Isaach de Bankolé. He appeared in brightly colored suits and robes, with matching lip plates. The lip plates are most common in Mursi and Surma cultures in Ethiopia. While lip plates are now most common among tribal women, in the past African men wore lip plates as a rite of passage into manhood or a symbol of their status within the tribe — the bigger the better.

Angela Bassett was amazing as Queen Ramonda and her wardrobe was gorgeous! She most often wore a Zulu isicholo headdress, a tall, round hat with a flat top. Isicholos are traditionally worn by married Zulu women and traditionally sewn into the hair. The hair would be straightened, herbs would be applied, and the hat would be sewn into her hair so it could no longer be taken off and over a period of a few months would rot on her head. Her hair would then be washed and the procedure repeated. Today, the hats are no longer sewn into the hair, and they’re generally only worn on special occasions.

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The Positive Community March 2018

W’Kabi, played by Daniel Kaluuya, wore a Basotho blanket, worn traditionally by the Sotho people of the Kingdom of Lesotho. The layout of the design, the various symbols, the bold colour combinations and the characteristic pin-stripe make Basotho blankets unique. Originally, the stripe was a weaving fault, but it has become part of the design and now dictates how the blanket is worn. Traditionally, the pin-stripe runs vertically, symbolizing growth. In Basotho culture the corncob is a symbol of fertility and wealth, and is the most widely used motif; the more corn cobs, the more prestigious...

Story coninues online at thepositivecommunity.com

Mining Elder Himba

www.thepositivecommunity.com

THE FUTURE LOOKS

EMPOWERING This year’s McDonald’s® 365 Black® honorees are a living testament to the power of inspiration.

With every personal victory, they’ve used their success to lift their community to new heights.

To learn more about the achievements and contributions of this group of extraordinary women, visit 365Black.com

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Chasity Hale, Sanya Richards-Ross, Margaret “Marty” Gillis, Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, Tichina Arnold © 2017 McDonald’s

Education the art + science of learning

Newark School of Theology CELEBRATES 20 Years

Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Esq., Orange, NJ Seated L–R: Jhanae Wingfield, advisor to Mayor of Orange and Rutgers-Newark Vice Chancellor External Relations and Governmental Affairs Marcia Brown

F

or 20 years, Newark School of Theology (NST) has served the city of Newark’s churches, lay teachers, ministry leaders, and those seeking to understand what it means to live spiritually and seek a higher understanding of God. In the spirit of service to God and our fellow man, NST hosted a reception at Newark Public Library in honor of this significant milestone. NST has been a well-kept secret in Newark, but we are living in times that trouble our souls.

It will take a village—all of us— to heal our city.

On February 8th, the Newark School of Theology and The Positive Community launched a monthly public lecture series. The inaugural speaker, Mayor Ras J. Baraka, delivered an impassioned lecture on Newark, Spirituality, and the Future (view the video at www.thepositivecommunity.com).

Future lecturers include Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr., pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church (April 12) and Michellene Davis, Esq., executive vice president RWJ Barnabas Health (May 10).

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NST Founder/President Rev. Dr. Douglas Bendell, Phd. and his wife, Jennifer Fell Hayes

Dr. Howard Burrell; Margaret Cammarieri, American Heart Association; Rev. Louise Roundtree, Newark Clergy Alliance; Rev. Dr. Martin Oguike; guest; and Pastor Vincent M. Rouse, Sr.

Newark Public Library Director Jeffrey Trzeciak

Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr., corresponding secretary Baptist Minister’s Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity

Dr. Pamela Parker-McGee, NST Alumi

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark School of Theology Board members L–R: Elder Paul Trotman; Rev. Dr. Miguel Hernandez; Rev. Dr. Martin Oguike; Adrian Council, Sr.; Marcia Brown, Esq.; and Rev. Dr. Douglas Bendell, president

Photos: Karen Waters and Vincent Bryant

President United Missionary Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry

Dr. Albert Lewis and Hon. Mildred C. Crump, Newark Council President www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

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It’s Happening at

Columbia in March MARCH 21–25, 2018

The Inaugural Dr. Saul and Dorothy Kit Film Noir Festival The Stuff That Dreams Are Made Of: Paris 1946 and American Film Noir Columbia University Lenfest Center for the Arts 615 W. 129th St. (enter on 125th Street) New York, NY 10027 Paris, 1946—The war is over and American movies are once again in theaters. The French immediately notice a shift in the sensibility of Hollywood crime films. They call it film noir. Watch works by John Huston, Billy Wilder, Otto Preminger, John Brahm, Edward Dmytryk, Robert Siodmak and Fritz Lang.

FILM NOIR

arts.columbia.edu/noir Funded by a generous gift from Gordon Kit (Columbia College Class of 1976) in honor of his parents.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14

SATURDAY, MARCH 24

FRIDAY, MARCH 30

Columbia Community Scholars Info Session

Harlem Chamber Players Spring Concert

Afro-Travel: Music of the Yosvany Terry Quintet

For their seventh annual concert, the musicians are joined by the highly acclaimed students from the Opus 118 Harlem School of Music. Tickets $20, $15 for students and seniors.

The quintet’s performance concentrates on the African diaspora travels and geographies informing their work, a wide variety of black musical influences. Free but RSVP is required.

Visit harlemchamberplayers.org for more info and to buy tickets.

Email columbiajazzstudies@gmail.com to secure your seat; call 212-851-9270 for more info.

6:00 PM TO 7:00 PM 206 Low Libray, Morningside campus

Columbia offers independent, communitybased scholars from Northern Manhattan access to a range of University services and resources at no cost to participants: access to University libraries, course auditing privileges, dialogue with scholars, and participation in seminars and social events developed for the group.

Application deadline: Thursday, April 26.

For more info, call 212-854-5710, visit gca.columbia.edu or email communityaffairs@columbia.edu.

4:00 P.M. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 521 W. 126th St., New York, NY

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

7:00 P.M. TO 10:00 P.M. Lenfest Center for the Arts, 615 W. 129th St., New York, NY

HE AD -S TA RT TH IS SU MM ER

Co 3 mp Ope su n le m to te m de up er gr se to ee ss on & io e ns no ye ar nav de of ai gr la stu bl ee dy e s in tu de th re n ts e mo Ca M nt lc ic hs ul ro us b An Ch at em iolo om gy is try y Ph & ys Ph ic y s si & ol M og or y e

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www.thepositivecommunity.com PositiveCommunity_MARCH.indd 1

March 2018 The Positive Community 1/24/18 2:20 45 PM

Culture

music, art + literature

Know Your History

L–R: Rodney J. Reynolds, American Legacy founder; Gwen Moten, executive director, Mayor's Office of Arts, Cultural Development and Tourism; and Rev. Patrick Council, director of Neighborhood and Recreational Services.

American Legacy Mobile Truck Exhibit Stops in Newark

T

Photos: Raymond Hagans

he American Legacy Mobile Truck Exhibit rolled into Newark under the banner “Know Your History.”

Celebrating its 10th anniversary spreading knowledge and insight and making African American History a fun activity for the entire family, the exhibit— powered by Toyota—traveled to 11 cities during Black History Month, arriving in Newark on February 25 for a two-day stay.

Consultant William (Bill) Casey; Rodney J. Reynolds; and Jai West, Lincoln Tech executive director of Industry Training Parnerships

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Sunday | March 11, 2018

noon – 5pm Celebrate Women’s History Month by engaging in activities inspired by women and goddesses found within our reinstalled gallery, Art of the Ancient Mediterranean: Egypt, Greece & Rome.

Highlights include: A live hip-hop musical improv performance inspired by goddesses, an interactive presentation on Roman imperial period hairstyling techniques, life casting and more!

49 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102-3176

newarkmuseum.org

973.596.6550 TTY 711

"Elaine" from a poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, 1876. (detail) Isaac Broome.

Ott and Brewer. Trenton, New Jersey. Slip-cast Parian porcelain, H: 14.5 in, W: 9.5 in, D: 8 in. Gift of Emma and Jay Lewis, 2011 2011.12.6

On-site parking available for a fee.

Camp Newark Museum

Community Connections 2018 Six individual sessions for ages 3-14

Week 1: Palettes & Palates | July 9-13 Week 2: Dig This | July 16-20 Week 3: Timeless Tales | July 23-27 Week 4: It’s a Look! | July 30-August 3 Week 5: Family Matters! | August 6-10 Week 6: Catch the Beat | August 13-17

Limited Space!

Register Online today! newarkmuseum.org/camp or call 973.596.6637

Offical Airline

www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

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L–R: Philip Thomas, Council of Elders inductee; Deborah Smith Gregory, Steward of the Dream; Rev. Ronald Slaughter, Visionary of the Future​; Hon. Ras J Baraka, Newark Mayor; Rick Thigpen, VP State Governmental Affairs PSE&G; Donna Walker-Kuhne, NJPAC VP Community Engagement; and John Schreiber, NJPAC president and CEO

Photos: Deirdre Ryan Photography

Rick Thigpen, VP, State Governmental Affairs for Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG)

NJPAC Standing with King MLK Awards Ceremony L–R: Philip Thomas, Deborah Smith Gregory, and Rev. Ronald Slaughter, Saint James A.M.E. Church, Newark, NJ

S

olidarity and service in the face of political turmoil was the recurrent theme of NJPAC’s Living the Dream awards ceremony on January 12, held as part of the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. The gathering concluded with a spirited, faith-affirming concert by Mary Mary and Tasha Cobbs-Leonard.

Three honorees, whose contributions to Newark and its greater community embrace the King legacy, were ushered into the Chase Room to the uplifting sounds of the Rev. Stefanie Minatee’s Jubilation choir and young musicians of NJPAC’s Wells Fargo Jazz for Teens. More than 200 dinner guests stood in ovations for Newark NAACP President Deborah Smith-Gregory, recipient of the Steward of the Dream award; the Rev. Ronald Slaughter, senior pastor of St. James AME Church, recognized as the Visionary of the Future; and Philip S.

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The Positive Community March 2018

Thomas, NJPAC’s Founding Vice President of Arts Education, who was inducted into the Council of Elders.

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka condemned the relentless divisiveness in Washington and praised the evening’s awardees for “making Dr. King’s legacy a reality in the City of Newark.” His points were echoed in remarks by NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber, who forwarded the idea that King today would be heartened by the power of the community in shouldering the fight for social justice.

Rick Thigpen, vice president of State Governmental Affairs for PSEG – sponsor of the event, with United Airlines and ADP – returned to Living the Dream proceedings to share his esteem for the honorees, whom he described as “extraordinary examples of achievement in our own community.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Michael Jackson Jr. photo by: Andrew Eccles

alvin ailey american dance theater

May 11–13 This elegant, electrifying company returns with new works and the beloved Revelations. Featuring NJ premieres of Members Don’t Get Weary, Stack Up and Shelter.

aretha franklin birthday celebration mar 25

majah hype national symphony orchestra of cuba Fri, Mar 23 @ 8PM Enrique Pérez-Mesa, conductor Yekwon Sunwoo, pianist Works by Tchaikovsky, Roldán, Grieg, Da Falla & Beethoven.

the sleeping beauty Russian National Ballet Sat, Apr 7 @ 8PM Direct from Moscow, this company of over 50 dancers brings a traditional staging of Tchaikovsky’s classic fairy tale.

mar_NJPAC_ad_positive_community.indd 1

Sun, May 13 @ 5:30PM & 7:30PM Fast-rising funnyman Majah Hype—widely regarded as the “King of Caribbean Comedy”— makes his NJPAC debut!

celtic woman Sat, Mar 24 @ 8PM This inspirational, all-female Irish musical ensemble has become a favorite on PBS and on music charts around the world.

get over it! iyanla vanzant Wed, Apr 11 @ 7:30PM The New York Times best-selling author and Emmy-winning host of Iyanla: Fix My Life arrives with this interactive event.

frankie valli and the four seasons Thu, Apr 5 @ 8PM Fri, Apr 6 @ 8PM An evening of timeless hits with an American pop music icon.

earth wind and fire Mon, Jun 4 @ 7:30PM Tue, Jun 5 @ 7:30PM This 9-time GRAMMY-winning supergroup brings a night of greatest hits (“September,” “Let’s Groove,” “Celebrate”) & more.

johnny mathis Fri, Apr 13 @ 8PM This American music icon brings an evening of his greatest hits: “Misty,” “Chances Are,” “Twelfth of Never,” and more.

@NJPAC • 1.888.GO.NJPAC njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561 One Center Street Newark, NJ 3/1/18 12:20 PM

Imhotep Gary Byrd Speaks at Frontiers International MLK Breakfast Photos: John Brinkley

L–R: Rev. Louis Slade, Jeff Dunn, Malcolm Dunn, Michael Pyne, and Eugene Baucum

T

Guest speaker Imhotep Gary Byrd

he impassioned remarks by guest speaker Imhotep Gary Byrd received an enthusiastic response at the 42nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast presented by Frontiers International Plainfield Area Club. Byrd, whose career spans over 50 years, is a spoken word-recording artist, songwriter, motivational speaker, and radio personality on WLIB-AM and WBLS-FM. For 42 years, Frontiers International has welcomed families — parents, grandparents, and young people — to the program at Plainfield High School in tribute to Dr. King.

Known as a modern day griot, Byrd focuses on “raising human consciousness through communication, telling our story and lifting every voice.”

At the January 28, 2018 event, Malcolm Dunn and Richard Wyatt each received the Westry Horne Excellence in Education award for their contributions to the Plainfield School System, community, and youth. The Plainfield High School auditorium bears the name of the late Westry Horne, an educator, avid tennis player, and one of the founders of the Frontiers International Plainfield Area Club. —JNW

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The Positive Community March 2018

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

BROADWAY PERFORMANCES BEGIN MARCH 28 TICKETMASTER COM or

-

Lunt-Fontanne Theatre 205 W. 46th St. between Broadway and 8th Ave. #DonnaSummerBway • TheDonnaSummerMusical.com Photo: Francesco Scavullo

www.thepositivecommunity.com

March 2018 The Positive Community

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Ledisi Sings Nina Photo: Risasi Dais

Singer Ledisi gave a dynamic 90 minute performance at The Apollo Theater singing many of the classics recorded by the legendary singer and activist Nina Simone.

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The Positive Community March 2018

www.thepositivecommunity.com

PATRICIA BALDWIN

The Women of the Stellar Awards Grace & Peace n the year of the #Me Too women’s movement (which initially started from 1848–1920s), my sisters are now speaking out in more ways than one. And being the proud, saved, black woman I am, I’m going to do this my way. So just like I promised, we are going to touch on the 33rd Annual Stellar Awards, but with a twist. In addition to March Madness, it’s also Women’s History Month, so I’m going to keep my focus on my sisters. First let me start by saying while this year’s host is not a woman, he is married to a beautiful one named Tammy. It’s Mr. Kirk “Brighter Day” Franklin, and you know he’s coming to make you “Smile” and “Be Happy” with his comedic wit as he holds it down for the Stellar Awards and these anointed nominees.

While I don’t really like to say “I told you so . . .” “I TOLD YOU SO!” because Mrs. Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Heart. Passion. Pursuit, under the Motown Gospel label did that! Nominated in the categories of Artist of the Year, the Albertina Walker Award, CD Of The Year, Contemporary Female Vocalist, and Contemporary CD of the Year, I’m claiming some victory for our girl! But wait! Blessed by association, she’s also nominated for Recorded Music Packaging with Derek Blanks, Producer of the Year with Kenneth Leonard, and last but not least, Urban/Inspiration Single for “I’m Getting Ready,” featuring Nicki Minaj. Whew! I’m worn out from listing all of Tasha’s nominations, but I have just enough left in me to predict she’ll take 80% if not all of the awards.

Other beautiful women in the gospel who are deserv-

I

Kirk Franklin

www.thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

ing of being nominated under the Albertina Walker Award along with the Traditional Female Vocalist are not a surprise.

We have the firecracker Mrs. Campbell—Tina Campbell that is—for It’s Still Personal up against the gospel sweetheart CeCe Winans for Let Them Fall in Love. Finally, you have no choice but to love her voice, it’s The Voice herself, Le’Andria Johnson, for Bigger Than Me. Now when we put it that way, those categories might be a little tight, but all the women deserve love and are winners in God’s eyes always.

You know I have to mention my girl and Auntie in my head, Liz Black. Representing 1190 AM WLIB and Teaneck, NJ, Ms. Black is up for Gospel Announcer of the Year and I see a win! She’s an all-around minister with a mic who keeps it real and remains down to earth. I congratulate her on her nomination and being an example of how you “Hang in There” (that’s GEI feat. Kierra Sheard’s song, nominated for Contemporary Choir and Song of the Year). I’m not only claiming a Stellar Award for Ms. Black, but more moving and shaking in her career in the near future. You know we just can’t keep such a good thing to ourselves, so don’t act new when you see Liz Black doing even bigger things.

Make no mistake about it, there are plenty of great men who were nominated in multiple categories, but it’s about Girl Power this time—sorry, boys. No matter what, we love you all for blessing us with the fruits of your love and passion in song as you continue to build The Kingdom.

March 2018 2018 The The Positive Positive Community Community March

53

Invites you to book…

The Alhambra Ballroom New York’s magnificent Alhambra Ballroom hosts fabulous weddings, banquets, breakfast and luncheon meetings, parties, fashion shows, concerts, showers, and much more.

The Alhambra’s spacious and extravagant ballrooms and event spaces can accommodate your special event needs.

Looking for the top place to hold your next event in Harlem? Look no further!

Book before March 31, 2018 to take advantage of the 10% Chamber discount, for all events scheduled between July 1-Dec. 31, 2018!

Contact: Tracey DeChabert tdechabert@alhambraballroom.com 212-222-6940 or 6941

The Alhambra Ballroom W. 126th St. & Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.

New York, NY 10027

Voza Rivers with panelists L-R: Adrian A. Council, Sr.; Shawn Shearer, EVP NewWorldStation.com; Paul Porter, author, BLACKOUT: My 40 years in the Music Business; and Don Freyson, CEO 360 Entertainment/Clean Money Music

THELONIOUS MONK FRANK DRIGGS COLLECTION

V

oza Rivers, chairman of the Harlem Arts Alliance, recently convened a Clean Music Matters Symposium at Our Children’s Foundation in Harlem—a timely conversation about the crisis in black music in America today. Concerned about the predominate negative messaging in popular music and entertainment, Rivers organized Clean Music Matters in an effort to promote, inspire, and popularize healthy lifestyles through music in a form that today’s and future generations would embrace.

APR 6–7, 7PM & 9:30PM

CRESCENT CITY MONK WITH HERLIN RILEY & FRIENDS With Herlin Riley, Eric “ELEW” Lewis, Ellis Marsalis, Todd Williams, Reginald Veal, Pedrito Martinez, Melanie Charles, and more THE APPEL ROOM

APR 26–28, 8PM

BLACK, BROWN & BEIGE & THE BEST OF BASIE Clean Money Music artists Pete Colon and Bobby Booshay

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MICHAEL FEINSTEIN: THE ENCHANTING LENA HORNE

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MAY 18–19, 8PM

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Sojourner Truth: A Woman of God, Expresed Through Anti-Slavery Activism

M

any only identify slavery in America with southern states, but during the American Revolution in the mid- 1770s, slavery was legal and practiced in all 13 British colonies.

Back in 1655, The Dutch West India Company imported 11 enslaved Africans to New Amsterdam, which subsequently became New York. By 1703, more than 42% of New York City households held slaves. New York State did not outlaw slavery until 1827, which was 172 years after 1655, approximately half a century after the Declaration of Independence was signed, and only 33 years before the American Civil War. Around 1797, a black girl named Isabella Baumfree, also called “Belle,” was born into slavery in Swartkille, NY in what is now Ulster County. She grew up speaking Dutch as her first language. Her slave master was apparently of Dutch descent. In 1826, when Belle was about 29 years old, she escaped to freedom with her infant daughter. In 1828, she went to court to recover her son. She won, thereby becoming the first black woman to win this type of case against a white man. In 1843, Belle Baumfree became a Methodist, and changed her name to Sojourner Truth.

Webster’s Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language defines “sojourn” as “a temporary stay” or “to stay temporarily in a place. I suspect t Belle renamed herself “Sojourner” because she anticipated travelling around the U.S. to preach the Gospel and advocate the abolition of chattel slavery. As for “Truth,” Jesus Christ used that word often, including in the following two Biblical passages: “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed on him, ‘If ye continue in my word, then you are my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’”–John 8:31-32, King James Version; and “Jesus saith unto him, ‘Í am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’”–John 14:6, King James Version Apparently, the woman born Isabella Baumfree came to see her Divine mission as being to help end chattel slavery in the United States. She reportedly told her friends, “The Spirit calls me, and I must go . . .,” and began traveling

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about, preaching for the abolition of slavery. She worked and/or met with abolitionists William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass, and others.

She dictated her memoirs to Olive Gilbert, and in 1850 William Lloyd Garrison privately published her book, The Narrative of Sojourner Truth: A Northern Slave. The following year, she joined abolitionist George Thompson in a lecture tour through central and western New York State. In Ohio, she worked with Marius Robinson, the editor of the Anti-Slavery Bugle.

In 1857, Truth sold all of her possessions and moved to Battle Creek Michigan, reconnecting with former members of the Millerite Movement of the Methodist Church, who had subsequently formed the Seventh Day Adventist Church. She also joined the Progressive Friends, described as the nucleus of abolitionists in Michigan.

During the Civil War, Truth helped recruit blacks to become soldiers in the Union army. Her grandson, James Caldwell, was among those who enlisted. Truth also worked for the National Freedman’s Relief Association in Washington, D.C., which strove to improve conditions for African-Americans. She met President Abraham Lincoln in October 1864. In 1865, she rode in streetcars, trying to force desegregation of those vehicles.

After the war, in 1870, Sojourner Truth advocated land grants out west for former slaves, since former confederates in the South were unhappy with blacks having been liberated from slavery. Those efforts failed. She also met with President Ulysses S. Grant in the White House. Yet, in 1872, she was turned away from the polling place when she returned to Battle Creek Michigan to vote in the presidential election. Nonetheless, Ms. Truth also spoke at women’s suffrage events.

Throughout American history, many of the most progressive and dynamic leaders of anti-slavery and black progress movements have been devout Christians. These include Harriet Tubman, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, and many others. Their actions suggest that, as John F. Kennedy said, “God’s work must truly be our own.”

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I’M WATCHING, BUT NO LONGER WAITING I’M I’M WATCHING, WATCHING, BUT BUT NO NO LONGER LONGER WAITING WAITING WATCHING, BUT NO LONGER WAITING

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Women to Watch in this issueAnd And these aren’t just some random he he hehe Women Women Women to to toWatch Watch Watch Watch in in inthis this this this issue issue And these these aren’t aren’t just just some some random random he Women to in issue these aren’t just some random epitomize the reason we celesisters on the road, these are women epitomize epitomize epitomize the the the reason reason reason we we we celecelesisters on on the the road, road, these these are are women women epitomize the reason we cele- sisters on the road, these are women brate the month of March as who’ve already navigated at least part brate brate brate the the the month month month of of of March March March as as who’ve who’ve already already navigated navigated at at least least part part brate the month of March as who’ve already navigated at least part National Women’s History Month. of the path.

While they might National National National Women’s Women’s Women’s History History History Month.

Month.

Month. of the path. path.

While While they they might might not not National Women’s History Month. of the path. While they might notnot While they may not householdstop stop me from stumbling on arock rock While While While they they they may may may not not not be be bebe household household household stop me me from from stumbling stumbling on on arock ororor While they may not be household me from stumbling on aarock or names, they are impacting their two, their shared experiences names, names, names, they they they are are are impacting impacting impacting their their two, their their shared shared experiences experiences can can names, they are impacting their two, their shared experiences cancan respective fields expertise, theirassist assist me avoiding pitfalls and respective respective respective fields fields fields of of ofof expertise, expertise, expertise, their their assist me me inin avoiding avoiding pitfalls pitfalls and and respective fields of expertise, their me inin avoiding pitfalls and communities, and their families. quicksand as I make my own way communities, communities, communities, and and and their their their families. families. families. quicksand quicksand as as I I make make my my own own way way and and communities, and their families. quicksand as I make my own way andand Despite working in different fields, forge own path.

Despite Despite Despite working working working in in in different different different fields, fields, forge my mymy own own path. path.

Despite working in different fields, forge my own path. different geographical areas, and havSpeaking of forging apath, path, I’d be different different different geographical geographical geographical areas, areas, areas, and and and havhavSpeaking Speaking of of forging forging path, I’d I’d be be different geographical areas, and havSpeaking of forging aaapath, I’d be ing different goals and dreams, they remiss not to mention the imporing ing ing different different different goals goals goals and and and dreams, dreams, dreams, they they remiss not not to to mention mention the the imporimporing different goals and dreams, they remiss not to mention the impordo have much in common.

One of thetance tance of having Sheila Oliver serve do do dohave have have much much much in in incommon. common. common. common.

One One One of ofthe the the tance ofhaving having having Sheila Sheila Oliver Oliver serve serve do have much in One of ofof Sheila Oliver serve asasasas first things I noticed was their generosLt. Governor of New Jersey.

Not first first first things things things I I I noticed noticed noticed was was was their their their generosgenerosgenerosLt. Governor Governor of of New New Jersey.

Jersey.

Not Not only only first things I noticed was their generos- Lt. Governor of New Jersey. Not onlyonly time, experience, and spirit.isisshe is experienced and respected ity ity ityity of ofof time, time, time, experience, experience, experience, and and and spirit. spirit. sheshe an anan experienced experienced and and respected respected ity ofof time, experience, and spirit. an experienced and respected None of these accomplished ladies legislator with a proven track record None None None of of these these accomplished accomplished ladies ladies legislator legislator with with a a proven proven track track record record None of these accomplished ladies legislator with a proven track record had to share her insights with our of working in and for the community, had had had to to to share share share her her her insights insights insights with with with our our of working working in in and and for for the the community, community, had to share her insights with our of working in and for the community, readers, and each of them did she’s the first black woman tohold hold readers, readers, readers, and and and yet yet yetyet each each each of of ofthem them them them did did did so, so,so,she’s she’s the the first first black black woman woman hold readers, and yet each of did so, the first black woman tototohold excitedly and without hesitation. the title in New Jersey history and excitedly excitedly excitedly and and and without without without hesitation. hesitation. hesitation. the title title in in New New Jersey Jersey history history and and one one excitedly and without hesitation. the title in New Jersey history and oneone Their collective generosity and eager- ofofless of less than ten women to have ever Their Their Their collective collective collective generosity generosity generosity and and and eagereagerless than than ten ten women women tohave have have ever ever Their collective generosity and eagerthan ten women toto ever ness to be of service to others exempliheld it nationally. ness ness ness to to to be be be of of of service service service to to to others others others exempliexempliexempliheld it nationally. nationally. ness to be of service to others exempli- held it nationally. fy why they are Women Watch. In In the year of the Time’s Up and fy fy why why why they they they are are are Women Women Women to to toto Watch.

Watch.

Watch.

Inthe the the year year ofthe the the Time’s Time’s Up Up and and fyfy why they are Women to Watch. year ofof Time’s Up and Additionally, I noticed how many of Me Too movements, women are stepAdditionally, Additionally, Additionally, I I I noticed noticed noticed how how how many many many of of Me Too Too movements, movements, women women are are stepstepAdditionally, I noticed how many of Me Too movements, women are stepthem talked about women supportingping ping up, speaking out, and creating them them them talked talked talked about about about women women women supporting supporting supporting ping up, up, speaking speaking out, out, and and creating creating them talked about women supporting up, speaking out, and creating and listening to each other.

They recreal change in our country the and and and listening listening listening to to to each each each other. other. other.

They They They recrecreal change change in in our our country country and and the the and listening to each other. They rec- real change in our country andand the ognize the importance of working world.

It’s tempting to look toward ognize ognize ognize the the the importance importance importance of of of working working working world.

It’s It’s tempting tempting to to look look toward toward ognize the importance of working world. It’s tempting to look toward together the greater good. national stage for leadership and together together together for for forfor the the the greater greater greater good. good. good. thethe national national stage stage for for leadership leadership and and together for the greater good. the national stage for leadership and Their outlooks and answers find inspiration, but it’s important not Their Their Their outlooks outlooks outlooks and and and answers answers answers find find inspiration, inspiration, but but it’s it’s important important not not to Their outlooks and answers find inspiration, but it’s important not tototo varying places a spectrum, which overlook the greatness our own varying varying varying places places places on on onon spectrum, spectrum, spectrum, which which which overlook overlook the the greatness greatness inin our our own own varying places on aaaaspectrum, which isisis isoverlook the greatness inin our own a great thing.

The success and accombackyard, so to speak.

I’m all for aaaagreat great great thing. thing. thing.

The The The success success success and and and accomaccomaccombackyard, backyard, so so to to speak. speak.

I’m I’m all all for great thing. The success and accom- backyard, so to speak. I’m all forfor plishments of these wise, wonderful dreaming big and aiming high and plishments plishments plishments of of of these these these wise, wise, wise, wonderful wonderful wonderful dreaming dreaming big big and and aiming aiming high high and and I plishments of these wise, wonderful dreaming big and aiming high and I I I women remind us one size does not,sincerely sincerely hope more of us will.

But women women women remind remind remind us us usone one one one size size size does does does not, not, sincerely sincerely hope hope more more ofus us uswill. will. will.

But But women remind us size does not, hope more ofof But II II in fact, fit all.

They’ve each taken difalso know the journey of a thousand in in in fact, fact, fact, fit fit fit all. all. all.

They’ve They’ve They’ve each each each taken taken taken difdifalso know know the the journey journey of of a a thousand thousand in fact, fit all. They’ve each taken dif- also know the journey of a thousand ferent roads find their individualmiles miles begins with one, single step, ferent ferent ferent roads roads roads to to toto find find find their their their individual individual individual miles begins begins with with one, one, single single step, step, ferent roads to find their individual begins with one, single step, destinations in their own time.

My and these women remind me that destinations destinations destinations in in in their their their own own own time. time. time.

My My and these these women women remind remind me me that that if destinations in their own time. My and these women remind me that if IifIifI I grandmotherused usedto tellme, me,keep keep placing one foot in front of the grandmother grandmother grandmother used used used to to tototell tell tell tell me, me, keep placing placing one one foot foot infront front front the the grandmother placing one foot inin ofofof the “Measure yourself by your own yardother, I will soon be on my way.

“Measure “Measure “Measure yourself yourself yourself by by by your your your own own own yardyardother, I I will will soon soon be be on on my my way. way.

“Measure yourself by your own yard- other, I will soon be on my way. stick and never anyone else’s.”

The The The Positive Community is proud stick stick stick and and and never never never anyone anyone anyone else’s.” else’s.” else’s.”

The The The Positive Positive Community Community proud proud stick and never anyone else’s.”

The Positive Community isisisproud totototo profiles of these women make that celebrate Women’s History Month profiles profiles profiles of of of these these these women women women make make make that that celebrate celebrate Women’s Women’s History History Month Month profiles of these women make that celebrate Women’s History Month crystal clear, while providing aguide guideand and the women in our communities crystal crystal crystal clear, clear, clear, while while while providing providing providing guide and the the women women inour our our communities communities crystal clear, while providing aaaaguide the women inin communities of sorts.

As I read through their opinwho make history daily with their of of of sorts. sorts. sorts.

As As As I I I read read read through through through their their their opinopinwho make make history history daily daily with with their their of sorts. As I read through their opin- who make history daily with their ions, accomplishments, and advice, I commitment to education, business, ions, ions, ions, accomplishments, accomplishments, accomplishments, and and and advice, advice, advice, I I commitment commitment to to education, education, business, business, ions, accomplishments, and advice, I commitment to education, business, began realize Icould could glean bitsfaith, faith, culture, and the other began began began to toto realize realize realize could could glean glean glean bits bits faith, culture, culture, and and all allall ofof the the other other began toto realize IIII could glean bits culture, and all ofof the other from each one and cobble together things that actually make a communifrom from from each each each one one one and and and cobble cobble cobble together together together things that that actually actually make make a a communicommunifrom each one and cobble together things that actually make a communiown path forward, feeling ty. are thankful for these women my my mymy own own own path path path forward, forward, forward, feeling feeling feeling asasty.ty.We WeWe are are thankful thankful for for these these women women my own path forward, feeling asas are thankful for these women though I have a group of sisters placand hope you’ll find them as inspirthough though though I I I have have have a a a group group group of of of sisters sisters sisters placplacand hope hope you’ll you’ll find find them them as as inspirinspirthough I have a group of sisters plac- and hope you’ll find them as inspiring their hands gently, but firmly at my ing as we do.

And who knows, pering ing ing their their their hands hands hands gently, gently, gently, but but but firmly firmly firmly at at my my ing as we we do. do.

And And who who knows, knows, perpering their hands gently, but firmly at my ing as we do. And who knows, perback to help move me along when my haps watching them will inspire othback back back to to to help help help move move move me me me along along along when when when my my haps watching watching them them will will inspire inspire othothback to help move me along when my haps watching them will inspire othown gumption might wane fade.ers .we’ll . we’ll definitely be watching. own own own gumption gumption gumption might might might wane wane wane or or oror fade. fade. ersers we’ll definitely definitely be bewatching. watching. watching. own gumption might wane or fade. . .. ....we’ll definitely be

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