Destination Newark Summer 2023

Sep 10 @ 11AM & 2PM See Bluey, live on stage! Bluey’s Big Play brings the Emmy-winning TV show to real life with puppets, music and more.

gladys

knight

Sun, Nov 12 @ 7PM

National treasure Gladys Knight shares songs and stories from her incredible 50+ year career.

Beginner to advanced students work with accomplished faculty and other young artists in a variety of programming. From classes in acting, to hip hop, to jazz and musical theater, there is something for everyone. Sign up today at njpac.org/education

We’re of You! Back Because

“I miss collecting your magazines. I believe I have ALL of the issues... ”

@malcolmflex2011 (March 2023)

Publisher’s reply: Malcolm, thanks so much for your words of inspiration. An outpouring of support from readers like you has fueled us to make this issue as great as the others, if not greater. We hope you enjoy adding our latest edition to your collection.

“We (my daughter Dasani and I), make sure to snatch up a Destination Newark wherever we see one.... my daughter’s favorite is the one with Izzy on the cover, lol”

—Demaris (June 2019)

Publisher’s reply: Thank you, Demaris. We adore the Izzy issue! She was our debut cover star and set the bar very high! BTW, I hear your young star Dasani is following in the steps of our cover subject Tobias!

“I work for the Newark Public Library. We would like to add the library to your list of distribution points. We also need some back issues for the research collection.”

—Tom Ankner, Librarian, Newark Public Library (August 2019)

Publisher’s reply: Tom, we are proud to say that issues are available at the Newark Public Library. Thanks so much for all you do to keep so many of us in Newark in the know!

“Hi! Can you please drop off copies of your wonderful magazine to our campus? Please see my contact information below”

—Marcia Wilson Brown, Esq., Former

Sr. Vice Chancellor, Rutgers University-Newark (October 2018)

Publisher’s reply: Mrs. Brown, we’ve had the pleasure of talking in person several times, but we just wanted to say again publicly, thank you! You are thoroughly appreciated. The publication lives on because of people like you who’ve made it known that you see us! dN

PUBLISHER

Sakina Spruell Cole scole@colemediainc.com

EDITORIAL

Kim Prime Managing Editor kprime@colemediainc.com

Susan Anderson Copy Editor

Femi Lewis Writer

Erica Odoemene Writer

Kayla Cole Writer fayemi shakur

Contributor

ART

Mary A. Brown Creative Director mbrown@colemediainc.com

Todd Chapman

Designer

James Best, Jr. Designer

EDITORIAL PARTNERS

City of Newark

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

ADVERTISING advertising@colemediainc.com

COVER PHOTO: MARY A. BROWN

ASK THE MAYOR

Earlier this year, the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance, a program of the Obama Foundation, named Newark a ‘My Brother’s Keeper Model Community’ for violence reduction. We asked Mayor Baraka about it. Here is what he had to say:

Why is it so important to focus on young men specifically?

Mayor Baraka: “President Obama started this when the incident happened with Trayvon Martin. And he said that Trayvon Martin could have been his son if he had a son. So, from that became the impetus for him to start My Brother’s Keeper—trying to target black and brown boys who oftentimes are higher on lists that we don’t need them to be high on: high on unemployment, high school dropout, incarceration, all these… and we are trying to figure out how to change that trajectory.”

What was so exceptional about what you did in Newark that would make you a model community?

Mayor Baraka: “I don’t even think I like the way you asked that question (smile). Actually… we reduced violence in the city, (in 2013) we had 113 homicides. Last year, we had 50, while the rest of the country was witnessing huge spikes in violence and crimes. We didn’t experience that in Newark. As a matter of fact we arrested less people, and see crime going in the other direction.”

What do you think is the biggest contributor to violence reduction in Newark?

Mayor Baraka: “We talk about violence and crime as public health. While everybody else was saying defund the police, we created more opportunities in the public safety area. We created the Office of Violence Prevention, Brick City Peace Collective; we put social workers in all the precincts and the youth house. We created safe passages to schools, hospital-based intervention programs. And, we are in the process of putting out a RFP to expand organizations and the work that they are doing. Preferably by July, we will be able to have these organizations working in the community in ways they haven’t been able to do before.” dN

Mayor Baraka joined President Obama onstage at an MBK Impact in Action event in Chicago to share the city’s efforts to reduce violence.

For over 8 years, =SPACE has lived and breathed the idea of equity for founders of color. What began as a pop-up flex space is now a 19,000 square foot sharespace with amenities, programming and resources to help founders and small business owners successfully take their business to the next level. And we are proud to be the home of Destination Newark’s HQ!

Shadow of a Face LIFESTYLE

t the heart of the city’s arts and education district, located just across the street from the Newark Museum of Art and the Newark Public Library is “Shadow of a Face.”

The monument honors abolitionist Harriet Tubman and New Jersey’s role in the Underground Railroad. New Jersey was an integral part of the network of routes, as southern slaves traveled through the state to head farther north and into Canada.

Designed by New Jersey architect and artist Nina Cooke John, the monument is located prominently in Harriet Tubman Square, an area for reflection that was dedicated and opened to the public earlier this year.

Queen Latifah, who performs an audio narrative to accompany the monument, was in attendance at the ribbon cutting. Other notables included Mayor Ras Baraka, First Lady Tammy Murphy, and Audible Founder Don Katz and numerous other dignitaries were in attendance. The Queen Latifah narrative is available on Audible titled Monumental: Harriet Tubman and Newark’s Liberation Movement. You can also hear the narrative as you walk around the monument and read names of community members etched in the surrounding wall.

The monument replaces a statue of Christopher Columbus that was removed in the summer of 2020.

—fayemi shakur

fayemi shakur is the director of Arts and Cultural Affairs for the City of Newark. She has held appointments as visiting lecturer at Rutgers University-Newark, Department of Art, Culture and Media and Artist Advisory Council member for Newark Arts (2019).

Queen Latifah and Mayor Ras Baraka prepare to cut the ribbon.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CITY OF NEWARK

See a Movie and a Mural at Newark Screens

Local Newark artist Suliman Onque has done it again, this time creating a mural at Newark Screens with his cousin Ali Montana highlighting two of this year’s biggest movies, Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, and Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse. The murals showcase both

movies’ main characters—Ariel and Miles Morales, respectively—and the artists’ depictions of the background images of the movies. Don’t forget to check out the work as you are heading in to see your favorite movie!

Onque is a Newark art legend, having created and collaborated on murals

throughout the city, including “Phoenix Rise,” located in the main entrance of University High School (collaboration with Cha Che King); and the “ABOLISH WHITE SUPREMACY” street mural, with Yendor Production, Newark Arts, and the City of Newark, Rutgers Newark and a host of artists and community volunteers.

$1.5 Million Goes to Art in Newark

Newark’s art scene continues to grow, thanks to grant funding.

Project for Empty Space (PES) recently announced it is the recipient of a $1.5 million Mellon Foundation Grant in Arts and Culture. The nonprofit gives artists whose work focuses on social discourse a space to showcase their talent. The grant will allow PES to expand its residency program, gallery space, facilities and team, and overall outreach to the community. Specifically, the Newark expansion will include new studios and a gallery with space for outdoor public art projects, surrounded by a city park.

Founded in 2010 by Jasmine Wahl (pictured on left) and Rebecca Pauline Jampol (pictured on right), Project for Empty Space includes many programs in Newark, including the Artists In Residence program, Feminist Incubator, Gallery Exhibitions and Programs, PES STUDIOS subsidized studio program, Newark Artist Accelerator (NAA) regranting program, the Newark Artists Database, and Public Art. dN

You can see what is currently on exhibit at www.projectforemptyspace.org, and visit Wednesday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., at 800 Broad St.

Jasmine Wahl and Rebecca Pauline Jampol

Have You Seen the Lobby? HEALTH

No one usually enjoys a trip to the hospital. But Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s $150 million expansion project is luring people—sick and well—to check out its new 17,500-square-foot, glass-enclosed lobby.

Grammy-award winning artist and Newark’s own Faith Evans was on hand, along with officials from RWJ Barnabas Health, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and the City of Newark, to officially cut the ribbon to open the new lobby.

The renovated space features larger, modern seating areas and green spaces that make the waiting areas more comfortable for visitors. Updates also include more pick-up and drop-off locations for patients, an expanded registration area, a cafe, and the ‘Giantomasi Family Community Room’—an 800-square-foot meeting space.

Faith Evans and Newark Beth Israel CEO Darrell K. Terry, Sr.

What Else Is New at Beth?

The new lobby at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is the most visible element of the larger Newark Strong Expansion Project that began in 2019. But that’s not all. “By the end of 2024 Newark Beth Israel will have a newly designed and expanded emergency department, cardiac catheterization lab, and several new operating rooms,” said Darrell K. Terry, Sr., president and Chief Executive Officer.

New Emergency Room Coming Soon

Expected to complete in 2024, the emergency department—which treats approximately 95,000 patients annually—will expand by almost 4,000 square feet. The expansion includes 10 new private exam rooms, a new waiting area, and a dedicated entrance for the pediatric emergency department.

New Mommy-Baby Space

One of the first areas to receive improvements was the 34-bed Mother-Baby unit, which has been newly renovated with private, spacious rooms including 13 brand new suites. Plans also include updating the family waiting rooms next.

New Senior Space

In 2022, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center opened a new geriatric unit with 24 private,

Finding A Breath of Fresh Air in Newark

Thanks to Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 35 year-old Shannon O’Donnell of Toms River looks forward to summer weekends at Island Beach State Park with her family, friends and her dog.

Born with cystic fibrosis (CF), a progressive genetic disorder that damages the lungs, she is also a cancer survivor and a double-lung transplant recipient, who celebrated her milestone 10-year transplant anniversary last year.

Despite health challenges, she swam for her high school team and graduated college with a teaching degree. Shortly afterwards, her health declined rapidly.

She was referred to RWJBarnabas Health Advanced Lung Disease and Transplant Program at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in 2012, where she received a life-saving double lung transplant. Newark Beth Israel is New Jersey’s only advanced lung disease and

spacious rooms to meet the needs of older adults who may need physical therapy. Other amenities include sliding doors to the ensuite bathroom, slip-resistant flooring and well-lit, colorful hallways.

Lung and Cardiac Care Under One Roof

All of the heart and lung procedures that fall under the Advanced Lung Disease and Heart Transplant Program, and the Valve Center will soon take place in one building. The new facility is expected to include new patient consult rooms, exam rooms, cardiac catheterization suites, and a hybrid operating room.

As part of the hospital’s commitment to spur economic development in the community, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center has invested nearly 30% of the total project spend into local and diverse businesses.

transplant program, and one of the nation’s top 10 heart transplant centers, which has performed more than 1,100 heart transplants.

Beyond the obvious reasons, Shannon says she likes the intimate atmosphere at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, which allowed her to develop close relationships with her caregivers, who after over 10 years of close follow-up, feel more like family.

“There are advantages to being a small program,” says Dr. Joshua Lee, Director of the lung transplant program at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. “Our physicians are more closely aligned and able to provide the same level of expertise and the latest advanced technology.”

After surgery, Shannon remembers quickly being able to breathe on her own. She was discharged just eight days after her transplant “I held the record at the time,” she says. dN

Shannon O’Donnell of Toms River

Mommy-Baby Unit

YOUTH

Meet the Valedictorian!

Not only did Rylie McMillan earn the Valedictorian spot for University High School’s class of 2023, she’s also president of the National Honor Society, a member of both the girl’s volleyball and bowling teams, and most recently, a Posse Scholar.

The Posse Scholarship is a full-tuition grant that focuses on sculpting individual and community leaders. The program allows recipients from across the country to have a “posse” at school to help build that crucial foundation needed to get through college, including peers and mentors.

This is something familiar to McMillian.

“Newark offers mentors and many different connections that other cities don’t have,” says the 18-year-old. “Mayor Baraka came to my school’s career day and explained how ‘It’s not about your net worth, it’s about your network.’”

McMillan also received the largest scholarship award

Name: Rylie McMillian

Age: 18

Hometown: Newark, NJ

School: University High

Year: Class of 2023

College Plans: Centre College, Kentucky, IL

offered from the Beta Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority. AKA, the country’s oldest Black sorority, offers mentorship and community service. McMillan’s English teacher—a member of the sorority—recommended she apply. But the decorated student says she almost passed on the opportunity because she was nervous about the interview process. However, when she arrived, she was met with comfort and encouragement, which allowed her to put her best foot forward. Besides excelling in school, McMillan is an active member of her community. With the National Honor Society, she recently handed out eyeglasses and toiletry bags to homeless and women’s shelters. In addition to that, she and her aunt made snack and toiletry bags and handed them out to different shelters in Newark.

When asked if she has any advice for students hoping to achieve some of the same accomplishments she has, she advised, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You may feel like people are judging you or that you are not smart enough, but you are smart enough. You are always learning because education never stops. These people are here to help you, so do not be afraid to ask for help.”

McMillan is off to Centre College in Kentucky this Fall with plans to become a Forensic Pathologist.

—Kayla Cole

Learning Heats Up For All Ages Summer This

Newark’s colleges and universities are not taking a break over the summer. Check out these listings to see how you can advance your learning at one of the city’s institutions.

SETON HALL LAW

The Seton Hall Law School is hosting its Pre-Legal Institute, which aims to prepare students from underrepresented groups for law school. The institute features a series of workshops, panels, and lectures that will provide participants with an understanding of the law school application process, legal writing skills, and networking opportunities. The program is open to college students and recent graduates, with a focus on those who identify as members of underrepresented groups in the legal profession.

Ends July 1

ESSEX COUNTY COLLEGE

Essex County College is offering a Summer Youth Program for students in grades 6 to 12 that offers a variety of courses including STEM, performing arts, and leadership development. Students can participate in both in-person and virtual courses. .

July 10 through August 18

RUTGERS UNIVERSITY

NEWARK

Rutgers University Newark is hosting a Jazz Jam Session at Clement’s Place on June 15, presented in collaboration with the Institute of Jazz Studies and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Rutgers Newark’s Summer Academic session offers both six-week sessions and a 12-week session for current Rutgers students and visiting students.

May 30 through August 16

PILLAR COLLEGE

Pillar College is hosting the Summer Accelerator Program for recent high school graduates and rising high school seniors to participate in a two-week college “boot camp.” The program focuses on developing students’ writing acumen and helps them think critically, communicate effectively and speak persuasively.

July 10 through July 20

The college will also host a Career Services Information Session to share the opportunities and free services available to current students and alumni.

August 16 from 5-6 p.m.

BERKELEY COLLEGE

Berkeley College offers the Newark Promise Grant for qualified residents of Essex County. The grant covers tuition and fees for the following Associate’s degree programs: Business Administration-Management; Health Services Administration; Information Technology Management; Justice Studies-Criminal Justice; Health Services Administration—Medical Insurance, Billing, and Coding; Medical Assistant; and Health Sciences.

For more information, email info@BerkelyeCollege.edu.

—Erica Odoemene

Patricia Hobbs is Finally

After being a renter her entire life, Patricia Hobbs, 47, was able to achieve her dream of homeownership through an innovative Newark program that allows renters receiving certain government assistance to buy a home. The Newark Land Bank’s Section 8 Homeownership Conversion program also helps the city to decrease blight and tries to utilize Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) to rehabilitate the properties selected for sale. Since the program started in 2021, six homes have been sold to Section 8 reciepients.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, in order to qualify for federal Section 8 rental vouchers or subsidies, “the family’s income may not exceed 50% of the median income for the county or metropolitan area in which the family chooses to live.” In Newark, the median income is just over $41,000.

Born and raised in Newark, Hobbs was adopted out of the foster care system, and says she had opportunities, but in her younger years didn’t always take them. “My parents were willing to send me to college, but I chose not to go at that time,” she says. “It wasn’t until later in life that I began to want more, and want better things for my life.”

by Kim Prime

She says that she received a Section 8 voucher after the building she was then living in was torn down. “Sometimes there can be a stigma attached to the Section 8 program, that people who are in the program don’t want more. It was during this time that I went back to get my Associate’s degree in Human and Social Services,” she says. Hobbs worked a number of jobs at the time, but none gave her the fulfillment and environment she was looking for. “I applied at Audible a number of times since 2018, but never heard back. It

wasn’t until I had left my last job that Audible called me for an interview, and I started working as a Concierge Specialist there in 2021,” she says. Hobbs says that Audible is an amazing place to work. “The environment is so positive, and that was the path I was on in my life,” she says.

Everything was tested when Hobbs–who had only been at Audible for three months at the time–was admitted to the intensive care unit for a serious health scare. She says this was the confirmation she needed that better things were coming. “My health scare is what confirmed for me that I was on the right

path,” Hobbs says. “I know that sounds crazy, but Audible was so supportive during that time, even though I had only been in my role for a short time. That confirmed for me that dreams do come true, and that I had found a great position with a great company, so my dream of homeownership was the next thing that was within reach.”

Hobbs certainly had to draw on her perseverance to get to owning her first home through the program. “After completing the initial paperwork, there was a bit of a stall, so I will admit to turning into almost a ‘stalker’ to get the answers I needed,” she laughs. “But I was so focused and determined that owning a home was in my future, I was willing to do whatever it took. Once I decided to see which properties were available in the land bank, and when I walked through the door of the

property that I eventually purchased, I knew that I was home.”

The Newark Land Bank is financially supported by Wells Fargo, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, the Victoria Foundation and the National Fair Housing Alliance.

Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark states, “Home ownership is one of the most recognized paths to wealth generation. The Newark Land Bank is pleased and proud to have piloted and now offer one of the only Section 8 Homeownership Conversion Programs in the country.”

For now, Hobbs is enjoying living out her dreams in her new home. She lives with one of her adult daughters and two dogs. “I’ve had some minor homeownership issues, like frozen pipes and a sewer issue, but other than that, it’s been a dream,” she says. dN

MARY A. BROWN

Just turn on BET, Hallmark, Lifetime or any other streaming service you may have, and you are very likely to see a made-for-television movie starring Tobias Truvillion. He will be the sexy, charismatic Black man who is stealing Sanaa Lathan’s character away from Taye Diggs’ character in the recent NBC Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters; or he is the super fine music producer Khalil, who becomes the love interest of Jill Scott in BET’s First Wives Club. He is also the leading rugged cop in Equal Standard, the crooked lawyer in Tyler Perry’s Sista’s on BET, and the to-die-for male lead Damon King in T.D. Jake’s Seven Deadly Sins: Lust on Lifetime. That’s the short list. Tobias has more than 70 film and TV credits to his name, including 17 guest star roles and 10 feature film lead roles. Acting since the age of 23, Tobias has played roles in TV’s Law and Order, Chicago P.D., New Amsterdam, FBI, and most recently, The Equalizer. It would truly be exhaustive to try and list every role the 6-foot-2 actor has played in, so we listed a few of our favorites in the “Binge-Watch Tobias” list so you can binge on him this summer.

A week before Tobias was leaving for the International Cannes Film Festival in France, he sat down with the team at Destination Newark to explain why he calls Newark home, and what makes him come back, no matter how far away acting takes him.

Born in Queens, New York, the 47-year-old actor moved to Newark about 10 years ago to settle down with his wife, Michele, who is a Newark native with her own share of film and TV credits including New Jersey Drive and Eddie Murphy’s animated series, The PJs.

A Guided Day in Newark

Actor Tobias Truvillion takes us on a tour of some of his favorite spots when he’s at home.

1stStop

Gant-Gilbert Arts Creative

505 Clinton Ave.

Newark, N.J.

The Gant-Gilbert Arts Creative is an artist hub located in the Clinton Hill section of the city. Two of Tobias’ favorite spots are located within the newly-constructed building:

At Plants and Poets Café, Tobias knows by heart the star-studded menu at this quaint cafe, which specializes in vegan dishes named after legendary artists, singers, poets and leaders. Tobias is a fan of the Amiri Baraka lentil soup, Chuck Berry smoothie, Naughty by Nature salad and the Patty La Melt!

You don’t have to go any further than behind the Plants and Poets café to find his other hangout, BlkBoxNwk Studio, an art gallery and performance space where Tobias conducts his Tru Acting workshop periodically for rising actors.

2ndStop

“Electric Avenue”

547 – 551 Central Ave.

Newark, N.J.

This strip of Central Avenue, coined ‘Electric Avenue’ by Tobias, has three vegan eateries that the plant-based actor regularly frequents: Blueberry Cafe' Juice Bar & Vegan Grille “is a staple,” says Tobias, whereas the neighboring Zucchini Bar “is more eclectic and has more variety such as breakfast like chickpea eggs.” Next is Magic Cones Vegan Ice Cream Parlor “that has the best plantbased, coconut-based ice-cream.”

Tobias also holds healing circles for those seeking wellness guidance at Aqua Phit Water Bar & Gym, which is located in the storefront next door to the eateries.

3rdStop

John F Kennedy

Aquatics Center

211 West Kinney St.

Newark, N.J.

One of Tobias’ hangouts yearround is the JFK Pool at the City of Newark’s recreation center. The Olympic-sized pool is the largest indoor/ outdoor pool in New Jersey and has a retractable roof. “Don’t sleep on the JFK pool,” warns Tobias.

Plants and Poet Café

BlkBoxNwk Studio

Magic Cones Vegan Ice Cream Parlor

Aqua Phit Water Bar & Gym

JFK Aquatics Center

PHOTOS BY MARY A. BROWN

With Newark a booming location for film production, living downtown Newark affords certain luxuries to the veteran actor. For instance, The Best Man: The Final Chapters was filmed in the city, and one of Tobias’ scenes was filmed at a farmer’s market in Military Park.

When asked ‘Is that the life, or what?’ Tobias decides to go deeper. “Let me break it down for you… I’m in the middle of a love triangle with Deborah Cox and Jill Scott (on the set of First Wives Club in New York). They are the goddesses… I leave that, and I come home (to Newark) to shoot The Best Man and the first day on set I’m in a scene with Regina Hall and Sanaa Lathan. And on top of it all, I rode my scooter to work, not even 10 minutes from my home. You couldn’t tell me nothing!” exclaims the actor with a hearty laugh.

Trained in theater, having begun his career as “Shango,” in the theatrical musical “Oya,” which earned him a prestigious AUDELCO Award for Best Male in a Musical, Tobias has no problem jumping in and out of character. After theater, Tobias became Vincent Jones, the

camera techniques from these guys and how to control my performance. I was coming off the stage; I was big and broad and (over) using my voice. But being up against these juggernauts of the game really developed me,” reflects Tobias about how he sharpened his craft.

It's no wonder Tobias effortlessly goes into character during the photo shoot for Destination Newark. He instinctively knows we want a sexy cover shot, so he invokes that for the camera. But all you have to do is have a vegan meal with him, or simply ask him for any bit of advice and he will give you such a warm, welcoming vibe that you will quickly take note that he is a spiritual being who is multidimensional.

“I’m many things; I’m a light-bearer, a brother, a husband,” Tobias

Binge-Watch Tobias

Here are Destination Newark’s summer picks, featuring Tobias Truvillion, to add to your binge-watch list:

A Holiday Chance

Synopsis: The family of the founder of a multi-million-dollar film company experiences some tragic events during the holidays, and two sisters must set aside a life-long rivalry and come together to turn the company around and keep the family intact.

Also Starring: Nafessa Wiliams, Sharon Leal, Vanessa Bell Calloway

Love Dot Com

A man released from prison is torn between a life of crime and a fresh start with a woman he meets while scoping out a potential

Chaley Rose, Phillip Edward Van Lear, Luc-

Synopsis: What seems like a happy accident in the grocery store leads to a perfect "opposites attract" relationship that runs into issues of unfinished business and different priorities.

Also Starring: Preshona Ambri, Geoffrey Boggs, Raheem DeVaughn, LisaRaye McCoy Blackout

Synopsis: Chain of events unfold in a forgotten Brooklyn neighborhood during the blackout of 2003.

Also Starring: Jeffrey Wright, Zoe Saldana,

Ice-T, Robert Clohessy,

Tobias and his wife, Michele Morgan-Truvillion.

begins. Then he continues, “I’m plant-based, I’m natural, a healer, an athlete and a low-key comedian,” he quips at the end.

It’s this diverse existence that makes Newark the perfect home for Tobias. Sure, Lionsgate is opening a $125 million film studio in Newark, and Newark has been the set for more than a dozen movies in the past five years, to include a Walking Dead spinoff, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, Many Saints of Newark, and the Joker. But it’s the vast variety of things to do in Newark and the many people to help that intrigue Tobias.

The well-traveled actor recalls that before he met his wife Michele and moved to Newark all he knew of the area were his friends Queen Latifah, Dupré “DoItAll” Kelly (formerly of Lords of the Underground and

Melvin Van Peebles, Micheal B Jordan, LaTanya Richarson Jackson

Sand Dollar Cove

Synopsis: Real estate development project manager Elli is sent by her company to acquire the beachfront property they've chosen as the site of their new resort. Brody, the charming local, wants to make sure the town's beloved pier remains intact.

Also Starring: Chad Micheal Murray, Aly Michalka, Clare Bowen, Glynnis O’Connor

To Her, With Love

Synopsis: Two teachers fall for each other while trying to save their school's art department.

Also Starring: Skye P. Marshall, Maria Howell, L.Warren Young, Aubriana Davis

The Products of the American Ghetto

Synopsis: A young boy fights to protect his mother from prostitution and ends up joining Atlanta’s drug game during one of the city’s most historic moments,

Also Starring: Darrin Dewitt Henson, Robin Givens, Keith D.Robinson, Momma Dee

SHOWS

First Wives Club (Season 1)

Synopsis: TV adaptation of the 1996 comedy about three divorced wives who share a common past.

now Newark councilman), Treach of Naughty by Nature and the Sutton family who owned the once popular Je’s Restaurant. “I knew all those legendary Newark cats but when I came over and really started to get to know what the city is really about it really expanded my community leadership and work,” explains Tobias. “I was always doing stuff in the community, but Newark is a different beast,” Tobias proclaims.

Now he is entrenched in the community, regularly hosting panels, leading workshops, mentoring young actors and supporting the arts in the city. Even on his days off, Tobias is supporting Newark-based WBGO radio. “My routine is to clean my house on Saturdays while listening to the Rhythm Revue; I have my membership card and my T-shirt,” emphasizes Tobias, noting that he is a big fan of the show (See “Rhythm Revue: The Man Behind the Music” on page 30).

“We all have to give to live,” professes Tobias. “I want people to know you can do this stuff; you can live your dream the way you want. This version of me you see today, I saw it 22 or 24 years ago. I saw it. Now a new vision is emerging,” forecasts Tobias.

As Tobias’ search for self continues to evolve, so does his film career. Up next, Tobias plays the leading man in BET’s First Lady of BMF: The Tonesa Welch Story, directed by Vivica Fox and starring Michelle Mitchenor. The usual heartthrob says “You’re gonna hate me in BMF,” referring to his hated drug dealer character. “I love the bad guy role. I challenged myself. I pushed it,” promises Tobias.

We will stay tuned! dN

Also Starring: Jill Scott, Michelle Buteau, RonReaco Lee, Mark Tallman, Michelle Mitchenor

Matthew Noszka, Bre-Z, Peyton Alex Smith, Michelle Mitchenor, Woody McClain

In Contempt

Synopsis: Working for a legal aid office in New York City, Gwen Sullivan fights for clients who can't afford to choose their own attorney.

Also Starring: Erica Ash, Christian Keyes, Megan Hutchings, Mouna Traoré, Daniel Kash

Empire (Season 2 & 3)

The Best Man: The Final Chapters (Episodes: “The Invisible Man” & “The Party”) Synopsis: As relationships evolve and past grievances resurface in the unpredictable stages of midlife crisis meets midlife renaissance.

Also Starring: Morris Chestnut, Melissa De Sousa, Regina Hall, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long, Harold Perrineau, Taye Diggs

Tales

Synopsis: Stories told in popular hip-hop and rap songs are transformed into short films in this anthology series.

Also Starring: Irv Gotti,

Synopsis: A hip-hop mogul must choose a successor among his three sons, who are battling for control over his multi-million dollar company, while his ex-wife schemes to reclaim what is hers.

Also Starring: Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson, Jussie Smollett, Bryshere Y, Gray, Trai Byers, Ta’Rhonda Jones, Gabourey Sidibe, Seraya, Grace Byers

Sistas (Season 1)

Synopsis: A group of single black females from different walks of life who bond over their one common thread: Why am I single?

Also Starring: KJ Smith, Mignon, Ebony Obsidian, Devale Ellis, Novi Brown, Chido Nwokocha, Kevin A Walton, Brian Jordan Jr., Anthony Dalton, Crystal Renee Hayslett

THE BEST MAN: THE FINAL CHAPTER

SISTAS

First Wives Club with Jill Scott

Newark-based El Criollo may have been in business for 35 years, but the past three years have taught the family-owned restaurant the power of patience, quick pivots and discovering new resources.

“There’s always a solution,” said Natalia Villanueva, co-owner of El Criollo, which serves Puerto Rican cuisine. “We learned that we can’t panic.”

In March 2020, as the world shut down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Villanueva felt the same sense of worry that other restaurant owners felt. Yet she realized that if her family wanted to keep the doors open, they would have to operate differently and focus only on delivery and catering.

Today, the restaurant is running at full capacity. There are 17 employees– five more than when the pandemic shut it down in 2020. In addition, the restaurant and event space is more popular than ever, with more patrons desiring larger celebrations.

Although El Criollo has been able to survive the pandemic, other restaurants were not so fortunate. Since the shutdown, establishments such as the historic Bragman’s Delicatessen closed their doors. Kai Campbell, owner of Bragmans and several other eateries in town says that Bragman’s is renovated and ready to reopen soon. Meanwhile, Pulaski BBQ Restaurant in the Ironbound section was listed for sale at $599,000 for the business and building, and most recently the owners of the iconic Iberia Tavern and Restaurant in the Ironbound closed its doors and sold the property.

by Femi Lewis

Specific challenges constantly threaten the livelihood of eateries: rising costs, debt repayment, and a slow job market. A recent survey conducted by the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association revealed that 82% of New Jersey eateries are less profitable than in 2019, while 4% have been more profitable.

“Restaurants are at multiple ends of the spectrum. Some still need support coming out of the pandemic as a result of changes in office attendance (people are still working from home), while some are thriving and finding new niches,” said Emily Manz, Invest Newark’s Senior Vice President of Business Development. “As residents and also people that work in Newark we need to make sure we are eating locally, catering locally, and supporting local entrepreneurs.”

Yet despite these threats, restaurant owners are consistently discovering the power of innovation. The owners of Iberia sold to a developer who is planning to build a $1 billion project on the property, and Campbell says ‘Burger Walla closed in September to make way for a new store,” noting that The Yard, his third restaurant that sits in the middle of Military Park, is still thriving.

“The restaurants and business owners are key drivers and a huge part of our local economy,” Manz said. “They create jobs and positive experiences for people here. They make Newark tick.”

As a result of participating in the Business Accelerator Program through Invest Newark, Villanueva’s family has a different outlook on business. “We had a set way of doing things and I needed to work on the business, not in the business,” she said. “We realized we are a big business.”

Some restaurants took a licking. Which ones are still ticking?

Natalia Villanueva, co-owner of El Criollo is doing better now than before the pandemic.

PHOTOS BY MARY

A. BROWN

EDITOR’S PICK | Where to Eat?

Interested in dining in Newark? In addition to mainstays that have weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, here are also a few new places to eat that reflect the diversity of Newark.

Swahili Village

2 Center Street

swahilivillages.com

(973) 494-7379

Directly across from NJPAC, Swahili Village provides diners with a swanky yet inviting ambiance. With a diverse South African wine collection along with Kenyan cuisine ranging from Red Snapper to Oxtail Stew, Swahili Village’s menu is a great reflection of East Africa.

Taino’s Kitchen

849 Mount Prospect Avenue/ 85 Halsey Street

Ordertainos.com

(973) 732-3344

With two locations–one in North Newark and another in Downtown Newark, Taino’s Kitchen is accessible and tasty. Serving up traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, the menu includes items such as rice and beans, empanadas, stew chicken, and pork chops.

Brick City Vegan

915 Broad Street

(973) 733-0011

Who says tasty food can’t be healthy? Brick City Vegan serves up savory plant-based burgers such as Black Eye Pea, Sweet Potato and ChickPea that will make you forget about your love of a traditional cheeseburger. Fruit shakes, fries, and plantains also round out this wholesome, inexpensive eatery.

Vonda’s Kitchen

183 W. Kinney Street

www.vondaskitchennj.com

(973) 732-4532

There’s nothing better than a plate of fish and grits. And you can get it at Vonda’s Kitchen, a soul food eatery located in the Lincoln Park Coast Cultural District. Customers praise the flavorful, large portions of items such as sweet potatoes, collard greens, beef short ribs, and seared salmon.

Helping Hands Supports Local Communities and Restaurants

One of the ways many restaurants were able to stay afloat through the pandemic was through Newark Working Kitchens. The social impact initiative was established by Newark-based Audible in April 2020. Partnering with 24 local restaurants, Newark Working Kitchens has been able to serve 1.5 million meals to more than 10,000 atrisk residents.

Not only has Newark Working Kitchens helped residents, but it has also pumped more than $15 million into Newark’s restaurant economy. No participating restaurant in the program has closed and some, such as Uncle Willie’s Wings, have expanded. The business opened in 2019 by Walter Green and has expanded to two more locations.

In

Spanish Tavern

103 Mcwhorter Street

spanishtavernnewark.com

(973) 589-4959

Seafood paella is one of the most popular items on the menu at Spanish Tavern, but there are a few other delicious menu items. Featuring wine and food from Spain, customers enjoy devouring Paella Valencia and flan.

City Rub Smokehouse

118 Stockton Street Cityrub.com

(862) 237-7528

If you’re looking for a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere coupled with great food and drinks, City Rub Smokehouse is a tasty option. Southern BBQ ribs, chicken, and brisket combos coupled with hefty sides of mashed potatoes, beans, and cornbread will leave you satisfied.

Nico

Kitchen + Bar

One Center Street

njpac.org/venue/nicokitchen-bar

(973) 297-5855

If you ever find yourself at NJPAC or in the area and are looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, you don’t have too go far! Nico Kitchen + Bar serves delicious American food for lunch, dinner, and drinks during happy hour. From salads, wings, and pizza, to pasta, burgers, and steak, Nico has whatever you are craving. dN

2022, the program was renamed Newark Working Kitchens Delivers, offering a meal match program to corporate employees.

Top

of the Divine Nine

Who’s Doing Big Things amongst Frat and Sorors in Newark

by Kim Prime

For those who may not be familiar–The Divine Nine roots began on college campuses to unify African American students back in 1906, when Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. formed as the first Black Greeklettered fraternity at Cornell University. By the 1960s, there were nine Black Greek letter organizations, collectively known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council—and affectionately known as the Divine Nine. Interest in joining these organizations has grown far beyond college campuses. Today, it is more a sisterhood and

brotherhood of professionals, politicians and movers and shakers, as evidenced by Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka, who joined Alpha Phi Alpha just two years ago. There are also three members of the fraternity on the Newark Municipal Council, and former Council President Mildred Crump is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. This spring, the recent initiation of 83 new members to the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter (NJAC) of Delta Sigma Theta, many of whom live or work in Newark, proves there is great interest to join this coveted group of nine organizations.

Destination Newark researched and interviewed several members of the Divine Nine to find those who are doing big things in Newark– either as small business owners, nonprofit leaders or educators. Here’s who made our Top 9 of the Divine Nine:

Pastor Ronald Slaughter

Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc.

A proud and visible member of Omega Psi Phi for 15 years, Pastor Ronald Slaughter is the senior pastor at the historic St. James A.M.E. Church, where he is celebrating his 12th year as pastor. The church saw the return this year (after a hiatus during the pandemic) of its popular “Greek Sunday,” where members of the Divine Nine attend the service. Additionally, Pastor Slaughter is deputy director of Community Relations for the City Newark’s Public Safety Department, where his primary focus is improving and fostering community relations between police and residents. He is also chair of the board of directors at Saint Michael’s Medical Center, overseeing the direction of the hospital.

Why Omega Psi Phi?

“I’m proud and honored to be a part of a fraternity that produces leaders for the world in the area of church, community, leadership, and politics,” says Pastor Ronald Slaughter.

Sharon Hardesty

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Sharon Hardesty is celebrating the recent initiation of 83 new members to the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter (NJAC) of Delta Sigma Theta, of which she is currently the president. Having been a member of the sorority for 25 years, Hardesty has held a number of leadership positions within the organization, including vice president, financial secretary and various committee chairs. Additionally, Hardesty is the co-chair of the Eastern Regional Program Planning and Development Committee.

Hardesty is a vice president at Santander Bank, where she’s worked for 35 years. In Newark, she is a Newark Zoning Board of Adjustments Commissioner, and a graduate of the Newark Residents Leadership Academy; and a trustee at the St. John Community Baptist Church.

Why Delta Sigma Theta?

“Our sorority has its roots in the fight for social justice. Delta means change and social action is woven into our Five Point Programmatic Thrust. I am also proud of NJAC’s commitment to our great city of Newark where we partner with numerous community agencies to impact and empower the people we serve. Our youth programs are awesome and we have awarded over one million dollars in scholarships to deserving high school students throughout Essex County,” says Sharon Hardesty.

Dr. Jeffrey Robinson has certainly carried on the tradition of leadership and excellence started by the founders of Alpha Phi Alpha. As a member for the past 16 years, a life member and a current member of the Theta Psi Lambda Chapter in central New Jersey, Dr. Robinson serves as the president of the Sphinx Scholarship Fund, his chapter’s charitable foundation. That leadership is directly in line with his professional work as the provost and executive vice chancellor at Rutgers University in Newark. Dr. Robinson has held that position for the past year, having been with Rutgers for 15 years as a professor and the Prudential chair of business.

In Newark, Dr. Robinson is also the board chair of the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, and a member of the board of Rising Tide Capital.

Why Alpha Phi Alpha?

“The history of leadership, excellence and civil rights that goes back 117 years. Martin Luther King, Thurgood Marshall, W.E.B. Dubois and so many other members created a legacy of community leadership and high standards stood out for me,” says Dr. Jeffrey Robinson.

Jeffrey Robinson, Ph.D Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc.

Eugene Wade

Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity, Inc.

Katrina Ingalls Wade

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Married couple Eugene Wade and Katrina Ingalls Wade both have more than 30 years membership at their respective fraternity and sorority. They have been married for 29 years and are most wellknown for their soup. They are the owners of the famous Heaven’s Delite, Inc., affectionately known as “The Soup Spot” located at 184 Elizabeth Ave., which has been in business for 25 years and has been featured in several publications, including The New York Times.

Why Kappa Alpha Psi?

“Our rich history of tradition and achievement in every field of human endeavor. Membership affords me the opportunity to enjoy being around like-minded men I can share the highs and lows of life’s journey with. Joining as an undergraduate student bonded me with some young men who became my life-long brothers,” says Eugene Wade.

Why Sigma Gamma Rho?

“Our five national programs: Operation Big Book Bag, Annual Youth Symposium, Women’s Wellness Initiative, Project Cradle Care and Swim 1922 change people’s lives and provide a hope and confidence that is palpable! Becoming a member of my organization as an undergraduate student gave me a chance to grow and serve with some powerfully impactful young women with whom I’m still connected today,” says Katrina Ingalls Wade.

Mary Bentley LaMar Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

A proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha for 46 years, Mary Bentley LaMar is the immediate past North Atlantic Regional Director for the sorority, and a longtime Newark resident. She is the founder and executive director of the Sickle Cell Association of New Jersey for the past 14 years; the vice president of the Board of Directors of the Newark Boys Chorus School; and also involved with the Forest Hill Community Association and SuperKidz Kamp in Newark.

Why Alpha Kappa Alpha?

“It brings me joy to know that I am a member of the first sorority founded by African-American women with a mission to serve all humanity. And more importantly, we fulfill that mission everyday through sisterhood, scholarship and service. You see it in our Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris, you see that mission in local chapters as they render community service, and you see it in individual members like myself, who chose life work that helps others,” says Mary Bentley LaMar.

This is part one of our ongoing series featuring members of the Divine Nine organizations in the City of Newark.

Theodore N. Stephens, II, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II takes some responsibility for creating the Divine Nine. It was during his tenure as the Grand Polaris (National President) of Iota Phi Theta from 1990 to 1995 that the organization laid the groundwork to join the National Pan Hellenic Council. Stephens joined the fraternity in 1975, as a charter member of his undergraduate chapter, Phi Chapter at Rowan University. He is currently a charter member of Phi Omega in North Jersey.

Stephens has been the acting prosecutor since 2018. He is also a life member of the NAACP, and a member of the Garden State Bar Association, Essex County Bar Association and the New Jersey State Bar Association.

Why Iota Phi Theta?

“Our motto is ‘Building a tradition, not resting upon one’. We were the first Black Greek letter organization at the then Glassboro State College, meeting a need that followed the tradition of our founders–a communityoriented social service organization. I’m proud that we’ve continued our founders’ vision and built the organization that exists today,” says Theodore N. Stephens, II.

Reginald Clark

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Vesta Godwin Clark

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Reginald Clark and his wife Vesta Godwin Clark share a unique bond even beyond being married for 20 years. As members of Phi Beta Sigma for 47 years and Zeta Phi Beta for 43 years, respectively, their organizations are connected by the constitutions of each. Both say it helps having a partner that understands the demands each organization places on your time—it takes a commitment to provide the service that each organization does.

In addition to their service to their organizations, both are deeply connected and making an impact to the city of Newark. Vesta is the Executive Director of the Saint James Social Service Corporation, whose stated mission is to support families and improve the quality of life for children, the elderly, low-income families, the working poor and the homeless. Reginald is a basketball coach and a Newark Public Schools teacher of 23 years.

Why Phi Beta Sigma?

“We participate in a number of activities related to social action, and we have a successful mentoring program for young men, the Sigma Beta Club. Also, the brotherhood—some of the relationships I forged 47 years ago are still going strong today,” says Reginald Clark.

Why Zeta Phi Beta ?

“One source of immense pride for me is the fact that I was a charter member of my undergraduate chapter, and to see that chapter is still flourishing and growing, and working towards our organization’s goals of community service, scholarship and finer womanhood,” says Vesta Godwin Clark. dN

If you have someone you think should be featured, send an email to kprime@colemediainc.com

Outdoor Movies Under the Stars

The 2023 Summer Enrichment Programs are open to children ages 7 to 13 who live in Newark. The programs are designed to keep youth active and learning during the summer months. The program includes breakfast and lunch, arts and crafts, modern dance, sports and games, field trips, team building, guest speakers and much more.

Ready for Camp?

2023 Summer Enrichment Programs Dates

July 5 through August 18, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Marquis Bo Porter Sports Complex, 378 Lyons Ave. (973) 733-8006

Rotunda Recreation Center, 75 Clinton Ave. (973) 733-3677

Sharpe James/ Kenneth A. Gibson Center, 226 Rome St. (973) 733-3707

Boylan Street Recreation Center, 916 South Orange Ave. (973) 733-8947

ArtsXChange Comes to Gant -Gilbert Collective

Newark Centers of Hope Summer Enrichment Programs Dates

July 5 through August 18, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vince Lombardi Center of Hope, 201 Bloomfield Ave. (973) 577-7748

Hayes Park West Center of Hope for Girls, 179 Boyd St., (973) 733-3959

Hyatt Court Center of Hope, 11 Hawkins Court, (973) 799-2990

Pennington Court Center of Hope, 190 South St., (973) 619-9001

After more than a year of extensive talks and planning with neighborhood organizations, NJPAC launched ArtsXChange, an initiative with Clinton Hill Community Action.

Since its April launch, the new series has brought two performances to the South Ward each month. Summer events scheduled include a jazz concert in Mildred Helms Park and a local-artist-led workshop at the Gant-Gilbert Arts Collective in July, and a performance of one of Pia Wilson’s plays by the Yendor Theater Company in August.

Every event is the work of community residents and local artists, in collaboration with an NJPAC production team. The partnership grew out of community feedback received by NJPAC’s leadership after they announced plans to build a new arts education and community center, the Cooperman Center, on its downtown campus.

“A number of people said to us: ‘Well, a new community center sounds wonderful, but what are you doing in my community? Can you do something for us here, in our neighborhood?’” NJPAC’s President and CEO John Schreiber, told the crowd at the ArtsXChange kick-off event.

So far, the program has featured local talent including the Shabazz Dance Troupe, poet Mia X, students from Belmont Runyon school, and The Other Side of Newark, a hip hop collective featuring young people from across the city who are mentored by West Ward Councilman Dupré Kelly—better known to hip hop aficionados as “DoItAll” from Lords of the Underground.

NJPAC plans to launch similar programs in other city wards and neighborhoods. Full details about ArtsXChange events can be found at njpac.org/series/artsxchange. dN

Rhythm Revue:

ENTERTAINMENT The Man Behind the Music

For 36 years, Rhythm Revue — Felix Hernandez’s classic R&B and soul show on Newark’s beloved WBGO radio station — has brought music to listeners every Saturday, remaining one of the station’s most popular programs, even as it often appears on other stations simultaneously. And the live, dance-focused version of Hernandez’s show, the Rhythm Revue Dance Party — inspired by the John Waters film Hairspray about TV dance shows of the 1960s — has brought crowds to their feet at venues across the metropolitan area for more than 32 years with a mix of classic soul and irresistible dance hits drawn from music of the past half-century.

On July 13, Hernandez’s moveable feast of a dance party will kick off NJPAC’s free summer Thursday night performance series, Sounds of the City, in the Arts Center’s “front yard,” Chambers Plaza. His show has been Sounds’ celebratory opening act since 2012. The crowd at his NJPAC shows, which often top 3,000

people, is a blend of generations, just like the music they boogie to throughout the night.

“Maybe 60% of the people at the dance parties grew up with this music, so they’re a little older,” says Hernandez. “But now there’s a huge number of people who were born long after this music was created — either they grew up with the show because their parents listened to it, or they like to hear the source music for the hip hop songs they love.”

Hernandez did not set out to become a deejay. Attending Temple University, he studied film and hoped to make documentaries. But while in college, he volunteered at the university’s radio station. When a deejay who had produced a swing-era jazz program passed away, Hernandez stepped in to revive it, playing Count Basie and Duke Ellington records from his father’s collection. After college, he got a job at a radio station in Florida, later serving as a reporter for Chicago’s public radio station WBEZ.

In 1985, he relocated to Brooklyn, and a program director

Felix Hernandez PHOTOS COURTESY

from WBGO contacted him about creating a new R&B show for the station. Hernandez moved his vast collection of vintage R&B albums and 45s — accumulated over years of hunting through flea markets and yard sales seeking the songs he’d heard on the radio as a boy — into the station’s Park Place headquarters, and the Rhythm Revue was born.

Growing up in Philadelphia in the 1960s, one of deejay Hernandez’s earliest memories was sitting on a table, next to his family’s record player, listening to his father’s jazz records.

“As a kid, I probably listened to the radio more than anyone – more than anyone else I knew, for sure. I was addicted to it,” he laughs. That fixation only deepened when, at 10 or 11 years old, he discovered Philly’s Black radio stations. “I started hearing songs I never heard before; it was a completely different playlist. I mean there was some overlap — the Supremes, Marvin Gaye — but there were so many songs I had never heard before. It just blew my mind. How’d I miss all that?”

All that — the music of his childhood — funky, danceable grooves of R&B and soul from the 1960s and 1970s, and the dance hits that later grew out of them, particularly as hip hop artists of the 80s combed through the records of previous generations for beats and samples — would become not only a lifelong obsession, but the center of Hernandez’s professional life.

Putting together the playlist takes “a sixth sense,” he says, one that incorporates the audience’s mood, the location, even the weather. Along with classic soul, he might also spin “Rapper’s Delight” by the

NJPACs Sounds of the City Returns for its 26th Season

The Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City concerts, staged on NJPAC’s outdoor Chambers Plaza, have brought an array of musicians to Newark over the past 26 years that have entertained hundreds of thousands of music lovers from the greater Newark area. The series celebrates Newark’s multicultural and diverse communities by presenting a fantastic night of talent presenting grooves and rhythms to unite those who work, live and play in the city and beyond.

July 13: Rhythm Revue Dance Party

This year’s series starts on July 13 with noted DJ Felix Hernandez kicking off the summer calendar, as he’s done since 2012. Additional artists and performers on the schedule include:

July 20: Sugarhill Gang

With a nod to the 50th anniversary of hip hop, New Jersey’s own Sugarhill Gang performs all their songs, including their hit “Rapper’s Delight,” the first rap single to become a top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

July 27: Newark Salutes It’s Own

Celebrating the diverse and talented performers throughout the city, this performance will showcase many of Newark’s own talented performers.

August 3: Edgar Joel & Anthony Colón

Edgar Joel and his self-titled band, featuring lead vocalist Anthony Colón, will perform their signature music, including their cover of Tito Livio’s “Hasta El Sol De Hoy,” which reached No.11 on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart.

August 10: Kurtis Blow

Continuing the celebration of hip hop’s 50th anniversary, Kurtis Blow, the first rapper to sign with a major label will perform his hits, including “The Breaks,” the first certified gold rap song.

August 17: Kindred the Family Soul

Neo-soul duo Kindred brings their smooth R&B sounds to NJPAC. The pair, which has been nominated for both a Soul Train Award and a BET Award, will perform some of their numerous hits.

August 24: Bilal

Popular artist Bilal, noted for his impressive vocal range and intense live performance, will close out the summer with his R&B music.

Sugar Hill Gang (who will also perform at Sounds of the City this season). But R&B is the core of the program. A song like “Doing it to Death” by James Brown? Foolproof, says Hernandez. dN

Newark Strong.

The enhanced Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

Thanks to a combination of philanthropic giving and RWJBarnabas Health’s commitment to community investment through our Newark Strong project, our transformed Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is officially open to enhance the delivery of world-class healthcare in the region. The visionary project includes:

• A new glass-enclosed lobby that is bright and welcoming

• An expanded adult emergency room and pediatric emergency room

• A state-of-the-art cardiothoracic intensive care unit

• A new hybrid operating room and renovated and expanded cardiac care treatment areas to treat patients who need complex cardiac care

• A modern geriatrics unit designed to meet the needs of older patients

More than ever, we’re ready to meet the needs of the Newark community. Learn more at rwjbh.org