HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS | December 17, 2015

The Harlem Community Newspapers, Inc. Connecting Harlem, Queens, Brooklyn and The Bronx

COMMUNITY

HARLEM NEWS “Good News You Can Use”

Vol. 15 No. 51

December 17 - December 23, 2015

FREE

Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy Inducted as a New York State Supreme Court Judge See page 13

FIRST LADY MCCRAY HOSTED A HOLIDAY PARTY AT GRACIE MANSION FOR CHILDREN FROM SHELTERS

SEE PAGE 11

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia University and the Harlem Community See page 14

NY Women Chamber of Commerce Presents “Doing Business With Fresh Direct” See page 10

VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

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CONTENTS

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IN THIS ISSUE:

No. 29

INSIDE E: Su THIS IS

Vol. 14

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWS BROOKLYN COMMUNITY NEWS BRONX COMMUNITY NEWS QUEENS COMMUNITY NEWS

Home Ow Two Sis nership Drea m ters in Southe Comes True ast Qu F COMM eens pa or UNITy ge 5 vi

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To reserve advertising space call (212) 996-6006 To subscribe go to our website at www.harlemnewsgroup.com OUR MISSION STATEMENT The Harlem Community Newspapers, Inc. will publish positive news and information. Our mission is to deliver “good” and informative news to our readers focusing on health, education, housing, business and employment opportunities. We look for and publish results, not problems. We promote businesses, opportunities and events happening in the communities we serve. We are dedicated to providing our readers with valuable information they can use to improve the quality of life for themselves, their families and our communities.

Community 4 Editorial 6 Real Estate 7 Calendar 8 Business 10 Events 11 Art & Culture 12 Highlight 13

Focus 14 Urbanology 16 Lifestyle 17 Church 18 Literary Corner 19 Games 20 Wellness 21 Classified 22

Publisher/Editor Pat Stevenson A&E Editor Linda Armstrong AE/Writer Derrel Johnson Art & Cultural Stacey Ann Ellis Adams Report Audrey Adams Travel Editor Audrey Bernard Society/Travel Editor Maria Cavenaghi Real Estate Rev. Charles Butler Columnist Bro Bill Defosset Columnist William A. Rogers Columnist Zakiyyah Columnist Hazel Smith Columnist Peter Cooper Book Reviewer Terri Schlichenmeyer Brooklyn Writer Keith Forrest Bronx Writer Howard Giske Queens Photojourn.

Juliet Kaye Photographer (Intern) Nadezda Tavodova Technology Editor Ron Stephenson Photographer Michelle James Photojournalist Gideon Manasseh Videographer Peter Cooper Office/Dist. Assistant Dominic Jones Distribution Russell Simmons Computer Dir. David Sinclair

Jose Ferrer Hispanic Mkt. Mgr.

Hispanic Community Consultant William A. Rogers MWBE Consultant

Marketing & Strategy Consultant

Urbanology Systems,

A Publication of: Harlem Community Newspapers, Inc. Mailing: P.O. Box # 1775, New York, New York 10027 Phone: (212) 996-6006 • Email: harlemnewsinc@aol.com Website: www.harlemcommunitynews.com Twitter: @harlemnewsinc • Facebook: /harlemnewsinc

PAT STEVENSON

GOOD NEWS YOU CAN USE Congratulations to Supreme Court Judge Tanya R. Kennedy.

Your induction ceremony was amazing. (see page 13) Thank you LaVerna Fountain for all you do at Columbia and as a representative from Columbia for MWBE’s and the Harlem Community. (see page 14) The first lady hosted a holiday party at Gracie Mansion for some children from shelters. We applaud you Chirlane for giving these children a day they will always remember. (see page 11) Rev. Sedare Coradin-Mercer shares a holiday message with us on page 4 in this issue.

I can’t believe Christmas is next week.

Happy Holidays.!!

Pat Stevenson Celebrating 20 Years

Publishing in 2015.

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS MACY S MONEY

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➤ YOUR MACY’S MONEY REWARD CARD MAY NOT BE: redeemed for cash, used to purchase Macy’s gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your credit card account. If a purchase used to accumulate macy’s money is returned, Macy’s reserves the right to void the macy’s money reward card or reduce the corresponding value. For more information, go to macys.com/macysmoney ➤ ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 12/18 & 12/19/2015. MERCHANDISE WILL BE ON SALE AT THESE & OTHER SALE PRICES THROUGH 1/2/16, EXCEPT AS NOTED. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

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Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

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COMMUNITY

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

DEAR HEARTS,

D

ecember is the month of Light. A new light is coming into the world. We are on the borderline of a new experience. Let us resolve to see the good in everyone, in everything and in every event, and know that only that which will bless and heal can emanate from our Consciousness.

This is the month of the birth of Christ. All over the world, children and adults alike are preparing for the special blessings of Christmas, often hear people say ‘I and the gifts too. You wish it could be Christ-

By Rev. Sédare Coradin-Mercer, Pastor United Divine Freedom Church of the Healing Christ, Inc. mas every day.’ Well, The beauty of the Christmas is every day in Christmas story is that the year when we under- we don’t have to have restand its true meaning. grets, because we are ofChristmas represents fered the opportunity to the spiritual rebirth, or begin anew, to enter into the birth of the Christ in a new life, to be mentaleach one of us. Christ- ly and spiritually reborn. mas Day is December Please affirm: ‘Today I 25th on the calendar. have a new beginning. I But Christmas is the am reborn.’ awakening of the spirit I like to think of of lovingness and giv- Christmas as signifying ingness in the heart. So, a new birth for all indiany day can be Christ- viduals – a beginning mas…in the heart. Each again. Even though it day can be the beginning is nearly 2,000 years of a new year and a new since Jesus the Christ life of spiritual aware- was born in Bethlehem, ness. this same Christ is born

daily in our hearts. This is the eternal, changeless Christ. Just as the Wise Men followed the star in the East to the baby who was laid in the manger, there is right within us the wise thoughts that lead us as divine Wisdom or Intuition to the place where Christ can be born in us. The miracle of Christmas is that the Christ of Jesus is mine and your Christ.

Merry Christmas to each one of you and a blessed holiday season.

With Love, Gratitude and Light.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

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COMMUNITY

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Jackie Robinson Park Conservancy Presented ‘A Winter Wonderland’ Tree Lighting Ceremony

O

n Thursday, December 10,

was excited to participate, “I live in the

I like that there are a lot of different ages

“And I wouldn’t have it any

2015, the Jackie Robinson Park

area, and my studio is on 145th Street. So,

here,” added Alyssa.

other way. The purpose of

Conservancy, Inc., Harlem

I was happy to contribute. And this is for a

Congregations for Community Improve-

great cause!”

Valerie Right, 71, agreed “I’ve lived

the Jackie Robinson Park

here since 1980” she said. “This is a nice,

Conservancy is to bring the Derek E. Broomes, President of HCCI and Sonya Simmons, President, Jackie Robinson Park Conservancy

ment, Inc. (HCCI), and the City of New

Six-year-old Jalil Giles attended with

comfortable event.” When asked about

community together to pre-

York (NYC) Department of Parks & Rec-

his sisters Destiny and Alyssa Gilchrist,

the changes she’s noticed over the past

serve the park, and enhance Ballerina Chantel Hill moved the crowd.

reation united to present the 18th Annual

ages 16 and 14. They live on 145th Street

36 years she smiled and added “The rent

the neighborhood. The tree

Lights of Hope Tree Lighting Ceremony

and received a flyer about the program.

is too high!”

lighting is a perfect example of what we

community together in celebration of

with city and state government, the pri-

at the Jackie Robinson Park and Recre-

According to Jalil the best part of the fes-

Jackie Robinson Park Conservancy

can achieve when we combine efforts. We

common goals—lighting the way to

vate sector, neighborhood institutions and

ation Center.

tivities was the dancing and the eating.

President Sonya Simmons, the driving

are grateful for the support of partners like

brighter futures. Each light represents the

community residents to enable the main-

Each year, this community-run affair

“We really enjoyed dancing, getting to-

force behind this event, was thankful for

the elected officials, sponsors and founding

commitment and dreams of residents,

tenance of Jackie Robinson Park as a vital

offer delicious food, festivities and fun

gether with everyone and learning what’s

the spirit of umoja (unity) that made the

partner, HCCI.”

individuals, businesses and corporations

green resource and a safe and beautiful

drawing a diverse crowd of neighbors,

happening in the community and what

evening a success. “I was ill and I had to

HCCI has developed more than 3000

who believe in the hope and unity of

environment for educational, cultural and

friends and community leaders and this

goes into making events like this happen,”

rely on the community to make this won-

units of housing in Harlem, founded the

Harlem. This year was sponsored by Ar-

recreational pursuits. Learn more at www.

year did not disappoint! Ballerina Chantel

said Destiny. “It was entertaining! And

derful night come to fruition,” she said.

conservancy as part of its plan to revitalize

timus, The Richman Group, C&C Apart-

JackieRobinsonConservancy.org.

Hill gave a moving performance; Harlem

the once blighted Jackie Robinson Park.

ment Management LLC, and Prestige

HCCI is an interfaith consortium of

based J Rose Catering provided a deli-

“We’ve supported the conservancy for 18

Management, Inc. and the NYC Parks

congregations committed to the compre-

cious meal; while, DJ Paul Mitchell spun

years, and we look forward this event each

Department. Manhattan Borough Parks

hensive redevelopment of the Harlem

a classic mix of jazz, hip hop and rhythm

year,” said Derek Broomes, President &

Commissioner William Castro, as did

community. Since 1986, HCCI has been

and blues music. In addition, local event

CEO of HCCI. “The Lights of Hope tree

Earnestine Temple-Bell of Assemblyman

committed to the holistic revitalization of

planner Samantha Su, 38, of Sterling De-

lighting ceremony is a wonderful testa-

Herman Denny Farrell’s office.

Harlem by providing economic develop-

sign Events and Planning donated a stun-

ment to the impact concerned residents

ning winter wonderland themed décor. Su has lived in Harlem for five years said she

Samantha Su of Destiny, 16, and Alyssa Gilchrist, 14, Sterling Design Events and enjoy the festivities with their little Planning. brother Jalil Giles, 6.

Manhattan Borough Parks Commissioner William Castro

can make on a neighborhood.”

Lights of Hope brings the Harlem

The Jackie Robinson Park Conser-

ment opportunities and empowerment of

vancy, Inc. is a not for profit organization

Harlem residents to rebuild their commu-

devoted to promoting viable partnerships

nity.

Looking for a Fundraiser?

Inspirational, Informational and Entertaining

“TELL-IT, SING-IT, SHOUT-IT” Sisters Speak Or “THE FLIP SIDE OF THE COIN” Brothers Speak Both plays feature outstanding artists/musicians.

Whether you choose the all-male or all-female play, the messages are phenomenal, the cost is fair.

The voices are spectacular!

~ PICK A PLAY ~ MAKE THE CALL TODAY ~ (212) 362-3681- E-mail: misshazel@earthlink.net Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

~ We Have TWO Gospel Musicals for YOU! ~ Written & Directed by Hazel Rosetta Smith

5

EDITORIAL

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS OP ED:

President Obama Celebrates 150th Anniversary of the 13th Amendment

By Janelle Berry

sively pursued the favor of representatives

Special to the NNPA News Wire

in the House who opposed the amendment

A

from the HU News Service

by bribing them, offering his support in their

sk Americans what the Emanci-

political careers and even convincing them

pation Proclamation is and most

that the amendment’s purpose had nothing

who know of President Abra-

to do with racial equality.

ham Lincoln’s executive order will respond

The fear of granting African Ameri-

like 20-year-old Ebony Harris, a student

cans the same constitutional rights caused

of Howard University from Chicago, Ill.,

fear, therefore, creating the constant battle to

and say, “Isn’t that the thing that freed the

grant passage of the amendment. However,

slaves?”

on Jan. 31, 1865, the House finally passed

But, the Emancipation Proclamation

the bill, with 119 yes votes and 56 against.

did not actually free the slaves. It freed three of the four million slaves in states that were in revolt against the Union during the Civil War, and it was not permanent.

involuntary servitude, except as punishment

youth can hear it and take in the message that

the end of slavery. Eventually, several states

for a crime.

was given today.”

began to ratify the amendment to their state

“Today, the issue of chattel slavery

to the Constitution, and most responses

seems so simple, so obvious — it is wrong

sound like Josephine Jacob-Cox, a sched-

in every sense, stealing men, women, and

“The 13th amendment is just 43 words

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) presented

ule manager for the New York City Transit

children from their homelands, tearing hus-

long,” Ryan said. “It is so short that you can

first lady Michelle Obama’s remarks on her

Authority.

band from wife, parent from child; stripped

almost miss its whole significance. Today

reverence of the progress of African Ameri-

and sold to the highest bidder; shackled in

we celebrate this 43-word amendment; this

cans and the United States since the abolish-

chains and bloodied with the whip,” Obama

new birth of freedom. It is altogether fitting

ment of slavery.

said in Emancipation Hall at the U.S. Cap-

and proper that we do this.”

ing,” Jacob-Cox asked.

Actually, this was the law that freed the slaves.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

sentatives would forever abolish slavery and

Dec. 6, 1865, the bill was ratified, declaring

Ask them about the 13th Amendment

“Does it have something to do with vot-

6

Once the bill was passed in January, on but it’s great that the media was here so the

itol.

House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) also voiced his gratitude.

constitutions, the first being Illinois on Feb. 1, 1865.

“She said that ‘Today’ — and I carry

Although the amendment’s purpose

this in my heart — ‘I hope that Sojourner

Had it not been for that amendment 150

“It’s antithetical not only to our concep-

was to abolish slavery, it was also a strat-

Truth would be proud to see me, a descen-

years ago, there may not be a U.S. Attorney

tion of human rights and dignity, but to our

egy to end the bloody and tragic fatalities

dant of slaves serving as the first lady of the

General Loretta Lynch, media mogul Oprah

conception of ourselves — a people found-

during the Civil War of 1861 to 1865. For

United States of America,’” Pelosi said.

Winfrey, billionaire Robert Johnson, Xerox

ed on the premise that all are created equal.”

four years, Black and White Union soldiers

Obama also gave reverence to the Afri-

President Ursula Burns, music impresario

Fredette West, director of the African

were fighting in the war together against the

can American leaders of the past who strug-

Sean “Diddy” Combs, “Empire,” R&B mu-

American Health Alliance and the chair of

rebellious Confederacy, causing over half a

gled and fought for the freedom that all citi-

sic, hip hop or rap, the Rev. Martin Luther

the Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities Co-

million deaths. Fear of more tragic fatalities

zens of America have today, such as Harriet

King, Jr., Washington Mayor Muriel Bows-

alition, expressed her happiness to be a guest

caused Lincoln to threaten to free all of the

Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and

er or President Barack Obama.

at the commemoration.

slaves in the U.S with the Emancipation

Frederick Douglass. He also commended

Proclamation in 1863.

Lincoln for being the president that sparked

Obama and Congress paused last week

“This commemoration was deep and

(Wednesday) to celebrate the moment 119

penetrating to the soul,” West said. “I wish

Even after the Senate passed the

all White men in the U.S. House of Repre-

everyone had the opportunity to be here,

amendment April 1864, Lincoln aggres-

Vol. 15, No 51 December 17, 2015

the change that America needed to see.

subscription information page 23 Advertise in Harlem Community Newspapers email today: harlemnewsinc@aol.com

REAL ESTATE

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Home Buying In Harlem

Be Prepared to Buy Now

C

by Rev. Charles Butler

an anyone afford to buy a home in Harlem? Yes, we had many new home buyers attend our Home Buyer Education Workshops this year.

However, most of the first time buyers had significantly higher incomes than in recent years.

This additional income makes a huge difference when applying for a mortgage. These buyers were also successful at saving, which meant they had more money for the down payment and closing costs. Again this statistic points out the fact that low to moderate income families are systematically being priced out of the Harlem market.

Although their income was higher for many of these families, their plan for homeownership remained the same:

eliminate wasteful spending and aggressively save as much money as possible. In preparing for homeownership, most of them reduced the number of gifts items purchased for family members and friends.

As we rapidly move through this Christmas shopping season, I want to remind the prospective first time buyers not to lose focus on your goal of achieving homeownership. It is very easy to get caught up in the moment and overcharge many gift items on your credit cards. But when the January billing statements arrive you have to ask the question of how will these bills be paid?

Remember the debt to income ratio (DTI) will be used to determine the amount of money the bank will lend. When ap-

1524 Amsterdam Ave

New York, NY 10031 T 212.368.4902

F 212.368.4903 www.foxworthrealtyonline.com

Heat & Eat: with SNAP, you don’t have to choose. When temperatures go down, heating bills go up. SNAP can help you stay warm and nourished this winter.

Your local Nutrition Outreach and Education Program (NOEP) Coordinator can help you find out if you or someone you love may be eligible for SNAP. It’s free and confidential. Contact your NOEP Coordinator today:

Manhattan Legal Services 917‐661‐4500

Prepared by a project of Hunger Solutions New York, USDA/FNS,

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Eugenia C. Foxworth NYS Licensed Realtor CIPS, NYRS, MWBE Certified NAR, REBNY, MANAR

plying for a pre-approval, your minimum monthly credit debt will be considered in calculating this ratio. The DTI is the allowable percentage of your monthly gross income that you can use to pay your monthly housing payment and minimum monthly credit debt. Usually, if your total DTI exceeds 43% your application will be declined.

Many first time home buyers fall into this credit trap and spend more money than they had budgeted. Therefore, it is important that you plan ahead, and stay well within your spending budget.

For more information on the home buying process contact Rev. Charles Butler at (212) 281-4887 ext. 231 or email cbutler@hcci.org.

7

CALENDAR

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

HARLEM CALENDAR OF COMMUNITY EVENTS

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Dec 11-20 Fri 7pm, Sat 3pm & 7pm, Sun 3pm HSA Theatre Company presents Soul Nativity, a Gospel extravaganza featuring song, dance, and comedy that explores the story of the Nativity through a modern interpretation.

The score is infused with Gospel, R&B, Pop, and Rock in an altogether original conception of a timeless story. (645 St. Nicholas Avenue near 141st street.) (212) 926-4100

8

Dec 11-31 The First Noel. The Classical Theatre of Harlem, in its debut at the Apollo Theater, brings a new Harlem-based holiday musical that crosses genres - from disco to rock to gospel that promises to be a classic for years to come.

At the World Famous Apollo Theater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305

Dec 11 – Jan 11 Artist-in-Residence Exhibition: Mario Moore Opening Reception at HSA’s G Space Gallery. Visual Arts Artist-in-Residence Mario Moore curates his own artwork in an exhibition that mark’s the official launch HSA’s newly renovated G Space Art Gallery.

(645 St. Nicholas Avenue near 141st street.)

(212) 926-4100 Dec 19 2pm-6pm Coca-Cola Winter Wonderland. Hosted by: Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell. Before the Apollo Amateur Night Holiday Special, the Apollo and Coca-Cola are partnering to bring the magic of the Holiday season to Harlem.

Under the Apollo’s iconic marquee, Coca-Cola will offer a variety of holiday-themed activities.

The festivities include free picture taking with Santa Claus and free performances by the

Don’t Give Up Choir, The New York City Housing Authority Youth Chorus and the Salvation & Deliverance Church Choir.

Additionally, in the spirit of giving, the Apollo will be a designated location for a toy and book drive for the constituents of Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI). At the World Famous Apollo Theater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305 Dec. 19 5:00pm -7:00pm Sisters Uptown Bookstore and Cultural Center (1942 Amsterdam Avenue at 156th St). Award winning journalist Mary C. Bounds discusses her book, A Light Shines in Harlem, which tells the true story of how Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, a hero of the civil rights movement, a Wall Street star, educators, inner-city activists, parents and students joined to-

gether to create the groundbreaking Sisulu-Walker Charter School of Harlem , the first charter school in New York State. 212) 862-3680 Dec 19 7:30pm Amateur Night Holiday Special Featuring Apollo Stars of Tomorrow with Guest Star Corbin Bleu (High School Musical and Dancing with the Stars) and A Very Special Performance by Shanice Williams (Star of NBC’s Upcoming Live Production of The Wiz). At the World Famous Apollo Theater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305

Dec 27 2pm and 7:30pm Ninth Annual Kwanzaa Celebration: Regeneration Night Featuring Abdel Salaam’s Forces of Nature Dance Theatre, Raul Midón and Foday Musa Suso Hosted by Imhotep Gary Byrd. At the World Famous Apollo The-

ater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305

Dec 31 10pm-4am Angel of Harlem New Year’s Eve Celebration (2272 Frederick Douglass Boulevard) Enjoy today’s top hits spun by DJ Jon Quick at one of Harlem’s hottest new venues (212) 316-0350 Jan 7 10pm Apollo Comedy Club featuring John Moses, Shatara Curry and Eddie Bryant. Hosted by Smokey Suarez Featuring music by DJ Qool Marv at the World Famous Apollo Theater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305 Jan 8 10pm Apollo Music Café: Featuring Mad Satta Mad Satta is a future-soul band based in New York comprised of eight members who strive to bring original, positive, eclectic, thoughtful music to a wide array of listeners.

This ultra-tight, eightpiece outfit is held

down by edgy bass lines and a sophisticated mix of guitar, organ, drums and horns that surround and support the powerful, smoky vocals of front woman Joanna Teters. Featuring DJ Hard Hittin’ Harry at the World Famous Apollo Theater (253 West 125th Street) (212) 531-5305 January 21-23 Fri 7:30pm Sat 7pm Sun 2:30pm HSA Winter Music Festival is a celebration of the HSA Music Department’s brightest rising stars showcasing our advanced students, faculty and special guests like the Harlem Chamber Players. (645 St. Nicholas Avenue near 141st street.) (212) 926-4100 All listings on this calendar are free of charge. To add your listing, please send copy 50 words or less in the format above to harlemnewsinc@ aol.com

55 West 116th Street (Bet Lenox & 5th) NY, NY 10026 1872 Lexington Ave (Bet 116th & 117th) NY, NY10035 1838 2nd Ave @ 95th, NY, NY 10128 For more information call: 212-876-8800 email: store4163@theupsstore.com website: www.theupsstorelocal.com/1163

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Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

‘TIS THE SEASON

9

BUSINESS

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

NY Women Chamber of Commerce Presents “Doing Business With Fresh Direct”

T

he New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce (NYWCC) recently held its annual Holiday Breakfast and Toy Drive for members and sponsors at the Bank of New York Mellon at 101 Barclay Street. Participants were asked to bring a toy to be donated to children in need during the holiday

season. The keynote speaker for the event was Larry Scott Blackman, VP of Public Affairs for Fresh Direct.

Blackmon made a presentation to the audience on “How to do Business with Fresh Direct.” Blackmon spoke about the company’s planned move from Long Island City, Queens to Hunts Point in the Bronx.

He invited women business owners to make presentations to Fresh Direct as they are looking to do business with MWBE’s. He also reviewed the company’s products and services and plans to be a good

corporate citizen in the community.

The New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce (NYWCC), established in 2002, is a not-for-profit charitable 501(c) (3) tax exempt organization

dedicated to assisting women and other disadvantaged minorities achieve success and economic independence through small business, micro-enterprise ownership and

Photos by Nadezda Tavodova

self-employment. Furthermore, NYWCC advocates for and actively works to create equal and fair business opportunities fostering an environment that nurtures the growth of women and minority-owned businesses in the city and state of New York.

The NYWCC is located Photos above (l-r) 1) Participants 2) Princess Jenkins, The Brownstone; Donald Notice, West Harlem Group; Realtor, Eugenia Foxworth; Pat Stevenson, Publisher,

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Harlem Community Newspapers

10

Lawrence Miles, NWCC,

Quenia Abreu, CEO/Founder, NWCC ,

E. Jeannie Maddox, Mgr, Supplier Diversity, Colgate

Larry Scott Blackmon, VP, Public Affairs, Fresh DIrect

Lawrence Miles, known as the hardest working “man” at the Women’s Chamber poses with some members.

3) Violeta Kutlesa Klameta and Daniel King - NYC Small Business Services

EVENTS

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

First Lady McCray Hosted a Holiday Party at Gracie Mansion for Children from Shelters

O

n December 9th, First Lady Chirlane McCray hosted a Holiday Party for 60 children from shel-

ters, who came with 12 chaperones, at Gracie Mansion. The children were treated to a guided tour of Gracie Mansion,

they hung ornaments on the tree and took photos with the First Lady.

Photos by Nadezda Tavodova

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015 11

AR & CULTURE

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Crafty Family Fun - Helping the Environment

By Stacey Ann Ellis, Producer, The Blackwash Televised Art Gallery

T

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

his Holiday Season there is fun to be had by helping the environment. Recycle gum wrappers, plastic bottles and buttons in fun ways the whole family can enjoy, and maybe even create some gifts.

Got some buttons sitting around? Make a bracelet or necklace from them that will have special meaning as a gift - because you made it! Did you know that you can

folks have put the instructions on the web and on YouTube. Just google what projects you like and viola – you’ve got a family activity.

Children off school and parents off work can create a flurry of holiday activity and sometimes tension.

You can calm things down by taking a time out to do a family project or choose projects to keep your children busy while you cook,

Duct Tape Wallet

Designer Duct Tape

make a sturdy purse or wallet from gum wrappers or duct tape?

Duct tape now comes in designer colors and prints.

How about some floral holiday or everyday decorations from plastic bottle bottoms? Got some empty CD cases? They make great frames for your child’s artwork.

The great thing is that all the crafty expert 12

Empty CD Case Frame for Children’s Art

Button Bracelet

address cards, wrap gifts or whatever tasks you have to do. Creativity is good mental and physical activity for all ages. Get busy having fun and saving a little piece of the environment! The projects won’t cost you much as you have most of what you need to create these projects already. Happy Holidays!

Gum Wrapper Purse

Plastic Bottle Bottom Flowers colored with Sharpie Markers

HIGHLIGHT

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy Inducted as a New York State Supreme Court Judge

L

Those who offered remarks spoke of Tanya’s infectious personality and remarkable understanding of the human experience. Her elementary and high school teachers were on hand, as well as the deans from Fordham University School of Law where she is an Adjunct

family and the community came out to support - a true testament to her character and legacy.

The mistress of ceremonies was Council Member Inez E. Dickens who shared the podium with the co-master of ceremonies Justice George Silver.

Professor and Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law where she received her law degree in 1992.

Judge Kennedy was recently an Acting Supreme Court Justice and Supervising Judge of Civil Court, NY County. She has presided in the Criminal and Civil

Courts of the City of New York, as well as the Family and Supreme Courts of the State of New York.

Prior to joining the judiciary, Justice Kennedy served as Principal Law Clerk to former Associate Justice A. Cozier in the Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department.

She also served as Principal Law Clerk to Justice Cozier in the Commercial Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York. Justice Kennedy commenced her legal career at the New York City Law Department, Office of Corporation Counsel, where she worked in both the Bronx Family Court and Bronx Tort Divisions and was promoted to Deputy Assistant Chief while assigned to the Tort Division.

Justice Kennedy serves as a mentor and visits various churches, schools and other institutions as a youth motivational speaker. Her greatest pride and joy is the speakers’ bureau she founded in October 2011 targeting at-risk youth where she invites guests to

discuss their past mistakes and difficult stories, as well as to provide advice to the youngsters on how to avoid the same pitfalls that the guests previously encountered in their young lives.

Justice Kennedy also promotes the advancement

and empowerment of women through her membership in the New York Coalition of 100 Black Women, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Tau Omega Chapter and the Greater New York Chapter of the Links, Inc. In addition, Justice Kennedy

is a life member and board member of the NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch -, and she is a member of the Abysssinian Baptist Church.

In her speech Judge Kennedy spoke of being a latch-key kid of a single parent household and being educated in the New York City public school system.

She wanted all those in attendance to know that she is “ready” and “able.” She said what is important to her is to be able to say at the end of the day that “she helped somebody.”

Photos above: (Right) Councilmember Inez Dickens, Justice George Silver (Top Center) Rev. C. Butts (top Left) Assemblyman Keith Wright

(center) Eleanor (Miss Ellie) Kennedy - Judge Kennedy’s mother

(l-r) Justice A. Cozier, Eleanor Kennedy, Supreme Court Judge Tanya R. Kennedy

Photos by Nadezda Tavodova

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

ast week, hundreds gathered at The Rotunda of the New York County Courthouse at 60 Centre Street to witness the swearing in ceremony of the Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy as a New York State Supreme Court Judge.

Her colleagues, friends,

13

FOCUS

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia

by Derrel Jazz Johnson University and the Harlem Community versity’s minority, women and local (MWL)

work she was able to accomplish with the five-

Pope continued to discuss Fountain

“opened a world of opportunities” to me,” said

She proudly revealed that her husband James

business and workforce initiative and is part

year Mentorship Program. She gave credit to

and her influence. “I became a convert to her

Deborah Romain, SEGD of Deb Romain Con-

takes her to and picks her up from work dai-

of an integral team that manages governmen-

Columbia’s MWL Advisory Council for help-

philosophy about local and minority business

sulting LLC. “I truly admire the commitment

ly. She also has two sons, a step daughter, and

tal and community relations efforts for the

ing 78 firms graduate and obtain $33 million in

owners. It’s grounded in the idea that local

La-Verna has in making the participants a suc-

grown grandchildren.

University’s construction projects. She also

construction spend on work at Columbia. She

and MWBE firms should be offered and need

cess and I am truly grateful for meeting her and

With all that La-Verna does, it would

oversees the internal and external communica-

is currently exploring ways to move the sup-

opportunities from government, academia and

for making the opportunities possible through

seem impossible that she would be able to ac-

tions initiatives for Facilities and Operations for

port to a deeper level for those firms that might

private industry, however they must be respon-

the program. Columbia has become a highly

complish it all with multiple sclerosis, but she

nearly 2,000 employees and more than 30,000

do business with the University.

sible to assure their firms are ready to take

valued account for us that has grown beyond

does. “I do this sometimes when I am in ex-

associa-

advantage of these opportunities and have the

the mentorship program: we have been chal-

treme pain,” also mentioning Lyme disease and

One of the biggest influences on Foun-

tion with La-Verna Fountain extends

capacity to perform on them. La-Verna is a

lenged, nurtured and inspired... and every day

arthritis as other physical ailments, joking that

tain’s life came when she served as the Director

over 7 years,” said Tanya E. Pope,

visionary who cares about the world and all of

we thank her for giving us that shot to prove

she says she also has old age. “I believe in what

of former U.S. Senator Harris Wofford’s Penn-

National Expansion Senior Manager at In-

its people. Her compassion has no color, gen-

ourselves. Great program, managed by amaz-

I am doing,” she says of her daily motivation.

s Columbia University moves north

sylvania office. “He created an environment

terise. “We first met when I worked with the

der or geographic line. She has taught me to al-

ing people! I am grateful for all that she has

La-Verna also had roots in Harlem from

into Harlem to extend their campus,

that allowed people to dream…because of

NYC Department of Small Business Services,

ways look at myself first and ask “What could

done and for helping to make my business a

her father, a primary motivating factor in the

the Ivy League institution relies on

him I think I was able to find my voice.” Sen-

(NYCSBS) a program partner in Colum-

I do better to help the situation”? As a result of

success.”

work she does. Harlem News asked her what

Fountain also played a crucial role in

her father would say if he knew of the work

La-Verna J. Fountain Photo by Nadezda Tavodova

A

students.

“My

professional

key figures to lead outreach toward the com-

ator Wofford, a co-founder of the Peace Corps

bia’s MWBE Mentorship Certificate program.

La-Verna’s influence and support, I have gone

munity. One of those key individuals, La-Ver-

who also was an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther

La-Verna and I discovered we had many like

on to work in a major national position in small

planning the event that celebrated 20 years in

she was doing. Explaining that he wasn’t the

na J. Fountain, spoke exclusively with Harlem

King, Jr., showed his incredible influence while

ideas and implemented them to improve the

business development, host a monthly radio

publishing for our publisher Pat Stevenson in

most vocal man when it came to such things,

News about her duties at Columbia and more.

La-Verna observed with simple greetings. “I

mentorship program over a number of years.

show supporting MWBE’s and becoming a

September. “I thought 20 years of bringing

she reasoned that he simply would have said

Fountain’s title is Vice President, Con-

walked in the room and Coretta (Scott King)

Following my role with NYCSBS, I came to

contributor to causes that are important to me.

good news to Harlem should be celebrated. I

“you done good.” La-Verna J. Fountain has

struction Business Services, Facilities, but af-

hugged him like a long-lost brother, and Dick

work at Columbia University and reported di-

I consider her a friend, a mentor and the best

also recognized that it wasn’t easy, and I just

done good for Columbia University and the

ter sitting down with her, it would be virtually

Gregory repeated the same,” adding that the

rectly to La-Verna. Her vast experience in gov-

boss I ever had!”

thought that was important to celebrate.”

Harlem community.

impossible to create a title that would capture

experience “was overwhelming, but it was piv-

ernment policy, community relations and sup-

Pope wasn’t the only one to sing the

Fountain certainly couldn’t, and didn’t

all of the work she does. In her senior man-

otal…it taught me to not jump to conclusions.”

plier diversity shaped my own knowledge and

praises of Fountain. “Participating in the pro-

forget her family. “My husband is my rock.

agement role, she is responsible for the Uni-

At Columbia, La-Verna is proud of the

inspired me to think beyond “obvious solutions”.

gram was a wonderful experience and has truly

The reason I am able to do is because of him.”

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

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HEALTH

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

THE LOWEST COST Health PLAN ONLINE?

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

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URBANOLOGY

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

40+ Wellness Options and Strategies

By William A. Rogers

S

aturday April 30 to Saturday May 7 will mark the dates for the fourth annual Harlem Holistic Wellness Week (HHWW) celebration; the focus of HHWW 2016 will be on the growing population of individuals between the ages of 40 and 80 years of age.

This will include Baby Boomers, who are now over 30% of the U.S. population.

The Boomer generation are individuals born between 1946 and 1964. The 40+ focus will also include those who are part of the X generation, individuals born between, 1961 and 1981.

This year Harlem Well-

ness practitioners, programs and businesses will be asked to develop special promotional activities that will target boomer and x generation individuals interested in exploring natural wellness health options.

The main objective of HHWW 2016 will be to introduce natural products and services to the 40+ population who are looking for natural ways to proactively prevent disease, slow the effects of aging and improve the overall quality of life.

Meditation, Tai Chi, Yoga, KI Training, swimming even line dancing can be useful tools for developing a proactive natural wellness strategy.

The wellness industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. More

people are turning to natural health care options, creating tremendous opportunities in the business of wellness.

I believe there will be a day when prevention strategies will be viewed more cost effective than cure in the health care industry.

Insurance companies are taking a closer look at ways to offer clients proactive wellness and prevention strategies. This is due in part because of the staggering cost of a reactive health care system and the growing numbers of Americans in the 40+ population.

The Alzheimer’s Association currently reports 1 out of 10 Americans over 65 will suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. The American Cancer Association reports that 1 out

of 2 men will develop cancer in their life time.

The American Health Association cites heart disease is the number 1 killer of women and 1 out of 8 American women will have breast cancer in their lifetime. This is why many Americans young and old are turning to holistic wellness options of prevention, education and stress reduction programs.

If you are a Harlem-based wellness practitioner or have a wellness related business or program that has products or services that can be used as part of a 40+ self-healing wellness strategy and would like to participate in this year’s Harlem Holistic Wellness Week send me an email at yourway2wellness2014@

gmail.com or call (646 39677) If you are 40+ and would like to learn more about natural ways to stay healthy keep on the lookout for more information on the special discounts for products and services during this year’s Harlem Holistic Wellness Week. You don’t have to wait until April; you can call the above number and schedule an appointment at the Ki Wellness Center after reading this article.

If you are a member of generation Y also known as the Millennials (individuals born in the early 1980s to the early 2000s) HHWW 2016 will be a good time to start learning natural wellness health strategy options as well.

DON’T MISS ANOTHER ISSUE SUBSCRIBE TODAY! GO TO PAGE 23 Visit our website to learn more: .harlemcommunitynews.com

Answers to Puzzle on page 20

Herbs Are Nature’s Medicine...

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

By Zakiyyah

16

M

any of our ailments are the result of sluggish blood filled with toxins that our bodies are not able to get rid of, simply because we don’t drink enough water, get enough rest and don’t eat the foods that assist the eliminative organs (liver, kidneys and skin) in doing their jobs.

Tonics are herbal agents that permanently increase vigor, energy and strength to our systems by stimulating nutrient intake of our organs. They primarily give vitality and strength to the digestive system, yet all body organs acting in sym-

pathy with the stomach are directly influenced and benefited. These herbs sharpen the appetite, promote better waste elimination, aid in digestion, soothe the stomach, and gradually exert an alterative influence in building up strength, energy, and health.

Some of the herbs that restore balance to the liver include: Burdock, chaparral, dandelion, yellow dock, gentian, prickly ash bark and sassafras, bupleurum and peony, cascara sagrada, goldenseal, wild yam, ginger and licorice. These herbs strengthen the liver, replenish energy and rejuvenate the liver’s ability to function well. Your energy rises, your joints are cleaned

of toxic build up, your digestion improves, your heart strengthens, sleep is restful, your kidneys can disburse energy better throughout your body and your mind can function more clearly.

MAKE NATURE’S MEDICINE YOUR OWN This information is to help you balance your natural healing energies and is not intended as diagnosis or cure, nor as a substitute for medical supervision. Website: www.sacredhealing7. com, Blog: www.herbsarenaturesmedicine.blogspot. com. Contact info: phone: 347-407-4312, send an email to request my FREE “online” Newsletter: theherbalist1750@gmail.com.

LIFESTYLE

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

EmblemHealth Hosts Thanksgiving Lunch for Over 300 Upper Manhattan Seniors and Their Families

O

n November 25, EmblemHealth hosted a Thanksgiving Lunch for Seniors at La Marina in Washington Heights.

Over 300 seniors from upper Manhattan and their families attended the event, which included a festive holiday lunch, dance contest, and raffle prizes donated by EmblemHealth and Cafe Santo Domingo. This is the fourth year in a row that EmblemHealth has honored seniors in partnership with La Marina and New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat’s office.

Dignitaries present

included Senator Espaillat, New York City Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez, New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer, and Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez, Em-

blemHealth SVP of Corporate Relations and Government Affairs.

“Our annual Thanksgiving lunch for seniors is a tradition I am very proud of, and I am

grateful to have EmblemHealth as a partner to help make it happen year after year,” said Senator Espaillat. “This year we had over 300 people attend, and I

hope we can keep growing this festive event for years to come.”

Ms. Cortes-Vazquez was equally enthusiastic about the event. “EmblemHealth was proud

to celebrate Thanksgiving cheer with our community’s older adult members. It was a wonderful opportunity to thank those who have given much to our city.”

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17

CHURCH

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Spiritually Speaking

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Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

ast Thursday was the historic induction of Hon. Tanya Kennedy as a Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York. Justice Kennedy, who ran unopposed in the election, is one of few African-American Justices on the Supreme Court or any other court. Congratulations to a wonderful person and a great jurist.

To celebrate its 30th Anniversary, WHCR-90.3FM is asking 30 friends of each program host to send in a donation of at least $30.00. The 3G Experience is counting on its listeners and friends! (hint –hint).

You can visit the website at www.whcr.org and make your donation or it may be sent directly to WHCR – 90.3 FM by

18

Bro. Bill De Fossett – host of The 3G Experience radio program, WHCR-90.3 FM (www.whcr.org) mail, to 160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031. You may also go to their secure website, www.whcr.org and follow the prompts and use your credit or debit card. When you do, make sure that you click on The 3G Experience as your favorite gospel radio program.

Rev. Reynold Batson will be installed as the Pastor of Zion Baptist Church on Sunday, December 20, at 3:30pm.

The service will be held at Solomon Temple Baptist Church in the Bronx where Rev. D’Eugene Rodgers is the Pastor.

Rev. Raymond L. Mickens will deliver the message on this great day. Rev. Batson takes over as the Pastor following the untimely transition of Rev. Charles Harvin.

The Cathedral at Greater Faith will present a “Black Nativity” presentation on Saturday, December 19 at 7:00 pm.

The church is located at 4214 White Plains Road, Bronx, NY. Bishop Michel Whitye-Haynes is the Senior Pastor.

Christ Temple Baptist, located at 1378 Nelson Avenue, the Bronx, celebrated the 19th Anniversary of their Pastor.

Rev. Charles Smith. The celebration was last Sunday and Greater Zion Baptist Church were the guests.

Union Grove Baptist Church celebrated its 69th Anniversary last Sunday at 1408 Hoe Avenue, the Bronx. Rev. Frederick Crawford is the Pastor.

Bishop Hezekiah Walker,

after a successful France tour is currently in South Africa. His church, in South Africa even has a Love Fellowship Choir.

Bishop William Anderson, Assistant Pastor at The Emmanuel Church For All People, was the guest preacher at Unity Baptist Church, the Bronx, last Thursday evening. The premen’s day services were going on all week. Rev. McCoy is the Pastor. Bishop Mary Freeman, Pastor of Emmanuel Church for All People in Harlem was also present.

Follow Bro. Bill on Facebook or on the air at WHCR.90.3 FM or www.whcr. org. Thursday morning from 6am- 10am.Other communication may be sent to PO Box 446, New York, NY 10039.

JOIN THE HARLEM TOURISM BOARD

Businesses, Cultural Institutions, Restaurants, Retailers, Organizations, Tour Operators, Travel Agents Churches, etc. go to website:

www.harlemtourismboard.com

or call 212-996-6006

Are You A New Resident in Harlem?

Let us know and we will invite you to our next “Welcome to Harlem Reception”

email us today for your reservation: harlemnewsinc@aol.com

LITERARY CORNER

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

“Alex Haley and the Books That Changed a Nation” by Robert J. Norrell REVIEW by Terri Schlichenmeyer, Harlem News contributor

T

he gardening catalogs started arriving this week – right on

time.

In the gray of winter, they represent so much promise, whether you have six acres or six inches of dirt. This time of year, it’s fun to imagine what will come from the soil months from now – but in the meantime, read “Alex Haley and the Books That Changed a Nation” by Robert J. Norrell, and see how a career can grow.

Born in 1921 into a wealthy Irish-African American family, Palmer Alexander Murray Haley was raised mostly by his grandmother, who instilled in him a love of storytell-

ing. As an adult, Haley would recall hiding behind rocking chairs on his grandparents’ front porch, listening to tales of “the African” and of slavery.

In 1939, after rejecting his professorial father’s ideal of an education, Haley (by now, calling himself “Alex”) joined the Coast Guard. Because of racial mores of the time, few onboard jobs were open to African American men, so he worked as a steward while also searching for assignments as a magazine writer. Ultimately, he came under the command of a “boss” who demanded help with letter-writing; his skills honed, Haley landed a job as a press officer for

the Coast Guard.

By 1960, Haley left the Coast Guard and a wife, and focused “intensively” on magazine writing. Just two years later, his reputation as an author was set, “linked in part to the growing notoriety of the Nation of Islam (NOI).” An assignment he’d accepted allowed him to become good friends with Malcolm X and they began working closely together on a book, even as Haley simultaneously wrote articles against the NOI. The process of writing The Autobiography of Malcolm X was long and, for his publisher, frustrating but Haley never forgot stories from his grand-

mother’s porch. Encouraged by a distant cousin, he toyed with a few versions of them and explored the origins of specific words he remembered. His research was extensive and, by the fall of 1966, he thought he’d found the roots of the stories he’d heard…

And that, of course, is still – almost 40 years later – loaded with controversy: how much of Roots was truth? Was Haley guilty of “borrowing” from others’ works? The answers lie somewhere inside “Alex Haley and the Books That Changed a Nation.”

Indeed, Alex Haley was a complicated writer: time and again, he ignored deadlines and sometimes facts to craft a story. That becomes an important point

within this biography: he obviously tested the patience of others in many ways, which is astounding and makes it interesting to see how two of the twentieth-century’s most iconic books came to be. Truth or fiction, those two works, as author Robert J. Norrell proves, absolutely shook up the status quo of culture and history.

Unlike many biographies that portray their subjects as too perfect, “Alex Haley and the Books That Changed a Nation” keeps

things real and I liked that.

If you’re up for a well-told, warts-and-all bio, this one will have you rooted to your seat.

“Alex Haley and the Books That Changed a Nation” by Robert J. Norrell c.2015, St. Martin’s Press $26.99 / $31.50 Canada 251 pages

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Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Getting Married?

19

GAMES

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: WINTER FUN ACROSS 1. Appear like a chick 6. Unit of electrical resistance 9. “____ the word” 13. Convex molding 14. Honey maker 15. Japanese-American 16. Russian author of “Dead Souls” 17. “C’____ la vie!”

18. English county 19. *Students’ winter delight?

21. *Apres-ski site 23. Goose egg 24. *Snow ____ 25. Olden-day aerosol can propellant 28. Post WWII military alliance 30. Lorraine’s neighbor 35. Word of mouth 37. Drug smuggler

39. “____ ____ a high note” 40. Orange traffic controller 41. Parting words 43. Bookie’s quote 44. Like draft beer 46. Apiece 47. 7 days 48. Made amends 50. Clarified butter 52. Like martini or humor 53. Justice’s garb 55. A late time of life 57. *He stole Christmas 60. *Frosty, e.g.

64. ____ profundo 65. Tropical American cuckoo 67. Index and middle fingers extended 68. Furiously angry 69. Container for liquids 70. Island off Manhattan 71. “Lights out” signal 72. Weary traveler’s destination 73. *Toboggans

DOWN 1. The ____, Washington’s offensive line, 1980s-90s 2. Shakespeare’s hometown river 3. A meal order for takeout 4. Pierrot or Harlequin, e.g.

5. ____ ____, as in breath 6. Be obedient 7. “For ____ a jolly...”

8. Subway in Paris 9. Japanese soup 10. Brezhnev’s country 11. Track event 12. Half dozen 15. Get cozy 20. Remember this battle site!

22. Baseball stat 24. Autumn attraction 25. *Popular hot winter beverage 26. Can be hot or cold, according to meteorologists 27. Ann Patchett’s novel

Hot Pot

“Bel ____” 29. *Donut-shaped sled 31. *Chionophobia is fear or dislike of this 32. Supplemented 33. Computer programmer 34. Glorify 36. With little fat 38. Make a sketch 42. “Two and a Half Men” star 45. Popular anise-flavored liqueur 49. *He’s busy during cold and flu season 51. Runs off 54. Indian vegetable fritter 56. Inhabit 57. Greek personification of Earth 58. Invitation request 59. a.k.a. The Islamic State 60. *Capricorn or Aquarius 61. Tom, not Tabby 62. Battery fluid 63. Famed loch 64. Club alternative 66. Mother Teresa, e.g.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

New, Larger Eat-In Location - Opening Soon!

20

Ask About our Catering Services!

We Offer a Variety of Food.

All Available for Special Order!

If You Don’t See Something listed on our Menu, please inquire within.

Thanks so much for choosing

Hot Pot

WELLNESS

HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

52 CAN DO’S: Healthy Lifestyle Solutions for each week of the year

By Monifa Maat “The Healthy Motivator”

CAN DO TIP #7: Measure the “Cost” vs. the Expense (Part 3 of 3) We’ve heard it all before. Eating healthy costs more. Who has time for exercise? However when we consider the price of consuming products that are doing more harm than good to our bodies or not making the time to exercise regularly –even if it’s only 5

minutes a day, What will it cost in the end?

The USDA national food intake data recently reported latest numbers for a four-member family weekly food budget -- from $146 (“thrifty” food plan based on SNAP-Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to $239 (liberal food plan) a week .Some food waste is built into these costs.

BEFORE: $1,000 per month Food Budget Monthly takeout food (meals prepared outside of the home) for 5 days a week, amounted to $100 weekly or $400 a month (pizza, sandwiches, ethnic takeout). Next, their grocery bill for staple items such as cereal, frozen foods, juice,

meats, eggs, amounted to $150 weekly or $600 per month. Total food budget for Janet’s family? $1,000 per month!

AFTER: $840 per month Food Budget Family takeout night was reduced from 5 days to only 1 day per week (a reduction of 60% at $40 weekly, $160 per month).

The savings was added to their weekly grocery budget increasing it to $190 weekly or $920 per month. Since adapting the 7S Formula, Janet’s family found that $190 per week was more than enough and so further reduced their weekly grocery budget to $170. Their Total food budget including takeout was now $840 per month – a savings of over 15% for healthier groceries!

The “7S” Formula stands for seven categories of healthy meal ideas that begin with the letter “S” --soups, stews, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, stirfry’s and snacks. With the 7S Formula Janet saves time and money by repurposing meat and using leftovers.

Meat is repurposed. Janet buys a whole chicken (instead of chicken parts in packages) and uses it in 3 or 4 different meals that are loaded with fresh vegetables such as chicken chili stew, or chicken ginger stirfry. Because the quantity of meat is reduced, the family can afford to spend more on the quality of meat –buying organic and grass-fed over chicken laden with hormones and antibiotics (2) Leftovers from stir-fry’s,

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! GO TO PAGE 23 Visit our website to learn more:

measure her progress!

This New Year, millions of people will make resolutions, but the question is, like Janet will you R.I.S.E to the challenge. (Resolve to be Inspired to find Solutions to stay Empowered!)

Disclaimer: Please consult your medical practitioner before starting any new fitness, dietary programs or exercise activity.

Monifa Maat is a certified fitness expert, nutrition activist and author of Bed Aerobics Fitness Flow™.

Her mission is to inspire individuals to practice healthy habits that reduce health disparities associated with preventable lifestyle diseases.

Contact: 347-903-0637 Or Email: Monifa@ TheHealthyMotivator.com.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

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soups and stews are used for dinner the next night.

Janet’s New Exercise Routine Janet’s exercise system was two-fold: (1) HIIT (high intensity interval training) at home – a series of highly intense exercises like crunches, squats, push-ups etc. done for 20 seconds, followed by 10 second rest for 8 rounds. Complete once a day, 6 days a week over the course of 6 weeks for a muscle toning, fat burning exercise that lasts about 4 min. 20 sec. per session.

Dancing Machine: Janet and her daughters put on their favorite CD’s and dance hard non-stop for 10 minutes until they work up a sweat.

Janet cannot wait to visit her doctor next month to

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y r t n u o C s e l Char d e i r F Pan n e k c i h C r e n n i D s a m Christ Menu Turkey Roast Pork Chitlins Roast Beef Ham Fried Chicken Sweet Potatoes, Macaroni & Cheese, Collard Greens, String Beans, Potato Salad, Black Eyed Peas

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See page 11

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia University and the Harlem Community See page 14

NY Women Chamber of Commerce Presents “Doing Business With Fresh Direct” See page 10

HONORABLE TANYA R. KENNEDY INDUCTED AS A NEW YORK STATE SUPREME COURT JUDGE SEE PAGE 13

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Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy Inducted as a New York State Supreme Court Judge See page 13

FIRST LADY MCCRAY HOSTED A HOLIDAY PARTY AT GRACIE MANSION FOR CHILDREN FROM SHELTERS

SEE PAGE 11

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia University and the Harlem Community See page 14

BP Diaz and AT&T Host Celebration for Borough President’s Cup Little Leagues Players and Famlies See page 5

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BP Diaz and AT&T Host Celebration for Borough President’s Cup Little League Players and Families

B

ronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and AT&T’s New York State President Marissa Shorenstein co-hosted a celebration for the Little League teams who participated in this year’s Borough President’s Cup: Grand Slam Little League and this year’s champions, the Kingsbridge Little League Knights.

The celebration took place at the Hard Rock Café at Yankee Stadium and included players, their families and their coaches.

“Through this tournament, each year we are giving the youth the opportunity a chance to play baseball on a different level on the

On Sunday, December 13, 2015, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and AT&T’s New York State President Marissa Shorenstein co-hosted a celebration for the Little League teams who participated in this year’s Borough President’s Cup – Grand Slam Little League and this year’s champions, Kingsbridge Little League Knights (pictured).

field where legends are born, Yankee Stadium. With these equipment grants,

these teams are able to purchase new equipment and extend their resources, as

well. I am proud to host this event each year and I am grateful to Marissa Shoren-

stein and everyone at AT&T for their continued support of the Borough President’s Cup Little League tournament,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. During the event, AT&T presented each team with a gift card to Modell’s Sporting Goods--$2,500 for the winning team and $1,500 for the runner-up—to help pay for equipment for the upcoming Little League season.

“AT&T is honored to support a program that encourages kids to participate in team building sports activities, give back to their communities and maintain academic excellence,” said Marissa Shorenstein,

President of AT&T New York. “I want to thank Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. for allowing us to be part of this incredible program for the fourth year in a row and congratulate all of the players and coaches for their hard work and dedication this year, both on and off the field.”

To compete for the Borough President’s Cup, players on each Little League team had to meet a set of requirements unrelated to their performance on the field, including a B-average in school, 90 percent or greater school attendance and a demonstrated commitment to community service.

Senator Jeff Klein and Local Faith Leaders Hosted 21st Annual Chanukah Intergenerational Celebration

with our families and friends to celebrate Chanukah. We must continue to reflect on the true meaning of this holiday and remember the menorah’s symbolism of resilience and hope.

I wish you a very safe and

happy holiday,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

“Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is a holy time of celebration spent amongst family and friends,” stated Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj. “I am honored once

again to join my friend Senator Jeff Klein in lighting the menorahs within our district and celebrating this very special holiday with the proud members of our Jewish community here in the 80th Assembly District.”

“Bronx House is delighted to host Senator Klein’s 21st Annual Menorah Lighting ceremony. This event, celebrating the Jewish Community’s Festival of Lights, commemorates the Miracle of the Flame. We are thrilled

to have one of the state’s most effective and respected leaders representing our community in government.

Jeff’s effectiveness keeps the flame shining in Pelham Parkway,” said Howie Martin, C.E..O., Bronx House.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

S

tate Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/ Westchester) and Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) hosted the 21st annual Chanukah celebration at Bronx House on Monday, where Bronx children, senior citizens, and local faith leaders gathered to light a ten-foot menorah at Bronx House. They sang traditional songs, drank hot cocoa and ate cookies and gelt during the festivities.

Later, Senator Klein and Assemblyman Gjonaj joined Bronx residents and local faith leaders at Einstein Hospital and then at White Plains Road and Pelham Parkway South to light two more menorahs.

“Tonight we gathered

5

The Harlem Community Newspapers, Inc. Connecting Harlem, Queens, Brooklyn and The Bronx

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Vol. 15 No. 51

December 17 - December 23, 2015

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Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy Inducted as a New York State Supreme Court Judge See page 13

FIRST LADY MCCRAY HOSTED A HOLIDAY PARTY AT GRACIE MANSION FOR CHILDREN FROM SHELTERS

SEE PAGE 11

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia University and the Harlem Community See page 14

Nets Star Thaddeus Young Surprised Brooklyn Elementary School Students with Toys and Holiday Trees See page 5

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HARLEM COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Nets Star Thaddeus Young Surprised Brooklyn Elementary School Students with Toys and Holiday Trees

T

o get young students into the holiday spirit, Brooklyn Nets star Thaddeus Young thrilled over 200 school children with surprise visits and gifts at the Red Hook Initiative community center and the Brooklyn Community Services (BCS) Gary Klinsky Children’s Centers after school programs located at PS 21 and PS 284.

Young, along with Tyler’s Trees, New York City’s one-stop shop for tree deliveries, delivered toys for each child along with a

holiday tree and all of its trimmings for each site. In addition, Young helped the children decorate the donated trees with Nets-themed holiday ornaments.

The event is part of the Brooklyn Nets 12 Days of Giving and the NBA Cares Season of Giving initiatives, which run throughout the holiday season. This is the third year the team has partnered with Tyler’s Trees to deliver holiday cheer and Christmas trees to children across the borough.

The Brooklyn Nets Assist program stands to sup-

counseling for at-risk families; treatment, recovery and job training to support the life goals of adults living with mental illness; person-centered rehabilitation and community living support for adults with developmental disabilities and disaster recovery case management and relief services. With a staff of over 400 and 16 sites around

port four key pillars: Education, Athletics, Health & Wellness, and Community Development. Maimonides Medical Center is a supporting sponsor of Brooklyn Nets Assist.

Brooklyn Community Services (BCS) celebrates the strength of the human spirit. Our mission is to empower at-risk children, youth, adults and families through comprehensive and holistic services: early childhood education; youth development services and educationally rich after-school programs;

the borough, BCS serves over 12,000 people every year. Today, BCS is one of the oldest not-for-profit, non-sectarian social service providers in New York City.

In 2016, BCS celebrates our 150th anniversary in ensuring the opportunity for all to learn, grow and contribute to ONE Brooklyn Community. Follow BCS at http://www.wearebcs.org

T

he National Association of Kawaida Organizations (NAKO) and the International African Arts Festival will present a 49th anniversary celebration of Kwanzaa. The creator of Kwanzaa, Dr. Maulana Karenga, will deliver his yearly founder’s statement, entitled: “Embracing Kwanzaa’s

Principles & Practice: Creating & Celebrating the Good.”

Dr. Karenga is professor and chair of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). He holds two PhDs, his first in political science and a second in social ethics. He is the foremost exponent of Maatian ethical thought, having

developed over the last three decades, a creative and scholarly Kawaida interpretation of ancient Egyptian ethical thought as a living tradition and a useful philosophical option for critical reflection on the urgent issues of our time. He has had a far-reaching effect on Black intellectual and political culture since the 1960s.

Artistic performances will be offered

by Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble and the Donald Smith Trio.

This event will take place on Sunday, December 27, 2015, the 2nd principle of the Nguzo Saba (the Seven Principles), Kujichagalia (Self-determination), from 2pm to 6pm. Doors will open

at 2pm for vendor shopping. The program will start at 3pm.

JHS is located at 141 Macon Street (& Marcy Ave.), one block from Restoration Plaza.

Admission is $12.00 in advance and $15.00 at the door. There is a $10.00 discounted price for seniors and children under 12 years old.

For information and

directions call (718) 7893264 or email–nakoinfogroup@yahoo.com People interested in vending opportunities should call (646) 4105723. Vendor space is limited.

This is a community event, and it is not endorsed by the Department of Education, the City of NY or any of its affiliates or agencies.

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Dr. Maulana Karenga’s 49th Kwanzaa Presentation at JHS 258In Brooklyn

5

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QUEENS NEWS “Good News You Can Use”

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December 17 - December 23, 2015

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Honorable Tanya R. Kennedy Inducted as a New York State Supreme Court Judge See page 13

FIRST LADY MCCRAY HOSTED A HOLIDAY PARTY AT GRACIE MANSION FOR CHILDREN FROM SHELTERS

SEE PAGE 11

La-Verna J. Fountain works to represent both Columbia University and the Harlem Community See page 14

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at ACQC for New AHF Healthcare Center & Pharmacy in Queens See page 5

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at ACQC for New AHF Healthcare Center & Pharmacy in Queens

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IDS Center of Queens County (ACQC) along with AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) hosted a grand opening ribbon ceremony for its new AHF Healthcare Center and AHF Pharmacy, located on the 7th Floor of ACQC’s headquarters at 161-21 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica, NY 11432 on December 1st. ACQC joined forces with AHF in February to expand its capacity to provide critical lifesaving services to those affected by HIV/ AIDS throughout the borough of Queens—where the prevalence of HIV/AIDS is extreme-

ly high in New York City. The AHF Healthcare Center will operate Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday’s from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm and the Pharmacy will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5:30 pm.

ACQC’s World AIDS Day reception also took on the building’s 6th floor after the ribbon cutting.

As the only AIDS Community Service Provider in the borough of Queens, ACQC provides critical services and advocacy for HIV-positive individuals for almost 30 years.

ACQC has served over 9,000

HIV-positive clients, and 30,000 community residents in five locations throughout the borough. AHF is a global organization that provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to more than 500,000 people in 36 countries. It is also the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the United States. The AHF Healthcare Center in ACQC is AHF’s second clinic location in New York, in addition to its healthcare center in Brooklyn.

Queens County is currently home to over 17,000 people living with HIV/AIDS, and the borough, compared with other

boroughs in the city, has fewer HIV/AIDS services available.

Of the 3,141 people diagnosed with HIV in 2012 in New York City, 501—or 16%—were from Queens. Of these, 403 were male, of whom 286 were identified as men who have sex with men (MSM) as their most likely transmission risk factor.

102 of the overall 403 males in Queens were Black while 179 were Hispanic.

According to the 2012 HIV Surveillance Annual Report compiled by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, “NYC continues to have one of the

largest HIV epidemics in the United States...As of the end of 2012, 114,926 persons had been diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS, reported in NYC, and were presumed to be living.”

In addition, “Important disparities in HIV—by sex, race/ ethnicity, HIV transmission risk, geography within NYC, and poverty level, among other factors—persisted in NYC in 2012. Persons newly diagnosed with HIV were largely male, black or Hispanic, young, men reporting sex with men, or persons living in impoverished NYC ZIP codes.

HIV diagnosis rates were strikingly high among black and Hispanic males and females relative to other racial/ethnic groups. HIV continued to be unevenly distributed across NYC, with most high burden areas also having a high proportion of impoverished reside nts.”

The AIDS Center of Queens County (ACQC) is the largest provider of HIV/ AIDS services in the borough

of Queens, serving over 9,000 HIV+ clients, and 30,000 community residents in five sites throughout the borough. Our services include case management, harm reduction and syringe exchange program, health education and prevention services, housing services, legal services, a licensed mental health clinic, and a food pantry program. Our services are provided at no charge to our clients.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is the largest non-profit HIV/AIDS healthcare provider in the USA. AHF currently provides medical care and/or services to more than 500,000 individuals in 36 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, Eastern Europe, and Asia. Additional information is available at www.aidshealth. org, find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/aidshealth and follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @AIDSHealthcare

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orough President Melinda Katz stated the following in response to a report by StreetEasy released today on 2015-2016 New York City housing market trends, which projects a “surge of new demand” in Queens.

Five of New York City’s top 10 hottest neighborhoods projected to see the greatest increase in housing demand in 2016 are in Queens, in-

cluding Jamaica, Jamaica Estates, Woodside, Elmhurst and Kew Gardens Hills. The ranking is based on StreetEasy’s Hot Markets Index, which ranks neighborhoods based on changes in asking rent, asking sales price and population.

“Demand and value continue to rise in Queens,” said Borough President KATZ. “It is of no surprise that Queens’ neighborhoods will

lead among the City’s hottest markets. The strong growth is a testament to the borough’s appeal, especially for families. While the growth is necessary and encouraged, the challenge for government will be to aggressively expand affordable housing stock to meet the ever-growing demand. When we do, however, it must be done right.”

For Jamaica, StreetEasy attributed its rise to a number of favorable factors, including “a healthy growth in population since 2011, strong growth in interest among buyers and renters, comparatively low prices and convenient access to the New York City subway and Long Island Rail Road systems. What is true in Jamaica is also true in greater Queens. Strong competi-

tion in Manhattan and the Prospect Park submarket of Brooklyn may push more buyers to Queens, but there is a pull factor as well. Relatively lower prices, easy access to large job centers in Midtown Manhattan and Long Island City, and more living space for families will pull more New York buyers and renters towards Queens in 2016.”

In Q2 of 2015, Borough President Katz and Mayor de Blasio’s administration launched the “Jamaica Now Action Plan”, a blueprint for economic growth and development in Jamaica, including a holistic 21-point plan for the revitalization and growth of Jamaica, Queens into a thriving res-

Harlem Community Newspapers | December 17, 2015

Queens Leads Among Streeteasy's Top 10 List of NYC's Hottest Neighborhoods

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