OCTOBER 2015 Transformation Newark News Magazine

In This Issue The Resident Ministers’ Alliance Junius Williams, To Chair, Newark 350th Anniversary Celebration Dr. Jamal Bryant At Interfaith Breakfast GROUND BREAKING FOR DIAMOND DIRECT FOODS Transformation Newark News magazine is a monthly publication focused o the city of Newark, NJ Providing practical information and tips to transform lives.

How Can I Tell If I’m Called To Pastoral Ministry Public Safety Grant

CONTRIBUTORS CURTIS MINCEY

Tax Hikes

PUBLISHER Rick Greene A METRO CHRISTIAN MEDIA PUBLICATION 53 Burnet Street Newark, New jersey

Community Storefront Program

What Is Truth?

The Gospel Matters Successful People Almost Always Say No

ADVERTISERS & CONTRIBUTORS WANTED EMAIL OR CALL FOR DETAILS Admin@MetroChristianMedia.com 862-888--8238

COVER: The ReMA board members

In Every Issue RELATIONSHIP TRANSFORMATION Fighting for your marriage LIFE TRANSFORMATION Your life matters BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION Business Networking HEALTH TRANSFORMATION Flu Prevention LIFE TRANSFORMATION Be Yourself MINISTRY TRANSFORMATION Ministry growth

Pastor Rick/Publisher

Many have asked, why?

Whats the use? Whats the purpose? I simply choose to believe that Newark can be better, Newark should be better, Newark must be better, because their are over 100,000 young lives depending on us to make it better or else they will fall to the streets.

Our purpose is to follow God’s leading. Our objective is to publish transformation ideas... Our goal is to change lives!

NewarkNewsOnline.com

“PARTNERING WITH MINISTRIES TO ADVANCE THE KINGDOM”

THE ReSIDENT MINISTERS’ ALLIANCE OF NEWARK

The Resident Ministers’ Alliance (ReMA) is an alliance of ministers who are licensed to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. ReMA operates under the leadership of ministers who reside in the City of Newark.

We are united in association with likeminded non-resident ministers such that the legitimate authority of the resident gatekeepers is not abnegated. We work together for the perpetuation of the spiritual interests and the common concerns of Newark families, fellow residents and the greater Newark community.

ReMA Board Dr. Bernard Wilks, President Dr. Gloria Harris, Secretary Pastor Paul Valerius, Treasurer Pastor Marcus Johnson, Trustee Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth, Trustee Dr. Aubrey Gregory, Trustee

WHY THERES A NEED FOR ReMA E v e n t h e m o s t e f fi c i e n t o f a l l leadership is incapable of being the most effective when it is leadership from afar. Historically and biblically it has not worked.

The flip side of leadership from afar is its companion – followship from afar.

Following from afar may be cosmetically appealing, but realistically the distance between leader and follower abrogates the essentials of day to day relationship, coaching, counseling and modeling.

The unfortunate result of followship from afar is often either denial by the follower or celebrity status by the leader. The problem is that celebrity status borders on idolatry where Christ is moved to 2nd place and the celebrity master assumes headship.

Following from a distance could result in what happened with Peter, who denied Jesus shortly after he began to follow Jesus ︎afar off.︎ (Luke 22:5) God himself in establishing the Kingdom here in earth under the reign of his Son did not have his Son lead from afar. When Jesus came here to lead us indeed He came as one of us and dwelt among us.

(John 1:14) The official board of ReMA leaders are fellow Newark residents who dwell among us.

ReMA Committees & Chairpersons Public Relations: Rick Greene Responsible for ongoing interactions with the Newark community at large to emphasize ReMA’s concern for the Newark community and to do so by maintaining contact with media, the business community and non governmental entities.

Government Affairs: Cynthia Shefton (Anna Schell, Assistant) To help the organization maintain a civil but influential relationship with city, county, state, and federal government entities such that ReMA is able to, from a kingdom perspective, impact government actions Education and Training: Allan Guevara The Education and Training committee is to assist the organization in training and educational endeavors to benefit ReMA ministers and ministers of the greater Newark community, but especially to those who provide ministry to those who live, work or worship in Newark Social Concerns: Irving Johnson This committee is to assist the organization to address important, sensitive or urgent issues of social concern including, but not limited to social welfare, safety, crime, drugs, pressing family needs or public health and other such matters which strongly impact Newark residents in particular, but also those who work, worship or socialize in Newark.

Membership: Charles Smith The Membership committee is to oversee membership dues obligations, recruitment activities, and to measure and monitor compliance with the organization’s policy of maintaining not less than 51% membership comprising of ministers who are resident mInister of the City of Newark

RELATIONSHIP TRANSFORMATION

It has been often quoted that "Anything worth having is worth fighting for." So, is your marriage worth having? At this point your response might be a resounding NO! However this is probably due to you trying and trying to repair your problems and to find yourself failing and failing again.

You may feel "whats the use," you've might have even just given up and are simply waiting for the right time to leave. Let me suggest that you take action; a different action from what you may have tried before. You now know that hoping, nagging, and yelling will not get the job done.

Let me suggest prayer. By using your faith, praying in the spirit, and not giving up, you will see results. ----------------------------------As always I never recommend that anyone stay in a relationship where there is abuse; even if its mental or verbal, and especially if it is physical.

----------------------------------Never think that the devil is going to sit idly by while you build a marriage that will glorify God. If the two of you are not willing to pay the price for your marriage then most likely your relationship won't last past a few years.

LIFE TRANSFORMATION

Live your life like it matters. Because in God’s eye’s your life does matter. God has created you to do something unique that will give Him glory, that can put you in a position to make a positive impact in the lives of those around you. Here are a few ways to do that.

1. Change the way you think about everything. Remember all human beings have a thinking problem. We are brought up in a culture that doesn’t really honor God. So as Christians we have to change the way we view issues such as anger, murder, lust, sex, jealousy and envy. Just to name a few.

2. We have to change the way we view the sacredness and holiness of marriage. Learn to appreciate the institution of marriage the way God created it to be. One man, one woman in a lifetime commitment.

Remember man didn’t create marriage, God did.

3. Be honest with your answers. As christians we don’t have to lie. If someone ask you a question just answer the question. If the answer is yes, then just say yes. If the answer is no, then simply say no. There really is no need for long explanations that may or may not be true.

4. Do more than what is expected. You might be surprised with the amount of joy you receive going the extra mile for someone. Plus your example of giving and doing can be the very thing that God uses to draw a person to Christ.

5. Love your enemies. I know that seems impossible from a human standpoint. But as children of God we are called to love in a way that goes against the grain of regular society. Remember God first loved us before we were able to love Him. 6. Live to please God. A lot of people tend to do things to please other people so they can receive a reward from people. But as believers we should live lives of integrity, doing what is right in the sight of God because it brings honor and glory to God. Plus we will rewarded in secret.

7. Stop worrying. Worrying really won’t change a thing. Trust God and don’t try to figure everything out. Just continue to let God direct you path because He knows what he is doing better than you do. So give God the praise and let Him take care of everything else.

8. Stop being so critical of other people. The reality is all of us have issues that need to be taken care of. Just imagine how much better a person you could be if you just spent time working on your own issues, and not everybody else’s. Then maybe you would be in a better position to help other people with their issues.

9. Grow spiritually. Don’t grab a crystal ball or the astrology page. Pick up the bible and read it. Take the time to learn about God and discover all the wonderful things that He has done. Pray to God and believe that He hears you and answers you. Spend time with other believers so that you may be strengthened and built up so that you can strengthen and build up someone else.

This is just the short list of ways to live life like it matters. What else would you add to this list?

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Junius Williams, to Chair, Newark 350th Anniversary Celebration Come out to support the first big event!

City of Newark Kicks Off 350th Anniversary with Free “Family Fun Festival” at Military Park on Saturday Afternoon, October 17th Newark Celebration 350 Plans Spectacular Party to Launch 2016’s Year-Long Program of Events and Activities for the Entire Community NEWARK, NJ – Sept. 22, 2015 --The Newark Celebration 350 Committee (NC350) and the Military Park Partnership announced today that it will host a full day of familyfriendly events in the newly renovated Military Park on Saturday, October 17 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help kick off Newark’s 350th Anniversary and preview plans for a yearlong celebration in 2016. Anchoring the day will be a parade, a series of live concerts and performances, arts and crafts, various demonstrations and global cuisine representing all the communities of Newark. NC350 is a broad coalition of arts, community, academic, business and government organizations all based in Newark.

The year-long celebration, initially chaired by the late Rutgers historian Dr. Clement Price, will showcase the talents of the city’s citizenry and the rich history of Newark with a series of events, partnerships, parties, panels and forums taking place under the NC350 banner throughout 2016.

“We stand on the edge of the 350th anniversary of Newark’s founding as a vibrant community with a rich cultural diversity and heritage of economic innovations and academic resilience,” stated Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “This is a time to celebrate!

For three-and-a-half centuries, long before the American Revolution through the Civil Rights Era and beyond, our ancestors built businesses and sustained trades that powered America’s growth. Today, we are revitalizing our historic downtown, reinvigorating our

neighborhoods and communities and reimagining Newark as America’s newest Destination City. We are building partnerships as well as structures. We are cultivating new ideas and new leaders. Newark is poised for great things!”

Junius Williams, the current chair of Newark Celebration 350 and the Director of the Abbott Leadership Institute at Rutgers University Newark, stated, “Newark’s 350th Anniversary is an occasion for everyone in our city to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of Newark and its residents. As chair of the Newark Celebration 350 Committee, my top priority will be ensuring that every member of our community has the opportunity to be part of this celebration. A great deal of time and effort has been put into our October 17th kick off and I hope families throughout Newark and neighboring communities throughout New Jersey descend on Military Park to help us celebrate.”

In conjunction with today’s announcement, Newark Celebration 350, in collaboration with Greater Newark Convention and Visitor Bureau, launched NC350.org, which will serve as a focal point for all events and activities surrounding the 350th anniversary celebration as well as a pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. All social media posts will be hashtagged #Newark350.

The October 17th Celebration will kick-off at 11 a.m. at NJPAC, with the Barat Foundation’s annual Creation Nation™ Art and Peace Parade. Now in its eighth year and a staple within Newark’s cultural landscape, the Creation Nation™ Art and Peace Parade in concert with NC350, will showcase the work of 3,500 Newark students in over 50 schools and community organizations. They will be celebrating their creation of original Animodule™ sculptures as part of the Barat Foundation’s education programming. The parade will also feature Newark’s high school marching bands and performing arts organizations.

The Newark Arts Council’s annual Open Doors Citywide Arts Festival, which celebrates Newark's unique and diverse contributions to the arts and to American culture, will work closely with NC350 on Saturday, October 17, holding special tours of artist studios including Nell Painter, Luisa Pinzon, Gallery Aferro, Paul Robeson Gallery and many others.

The Newark Museum, also a partner in Newark Celebration 350, will reflect on the city’s colorful 350-year history while looking forward, asking participants to imagine and create the Newark of the future on a mural-sized canvas. Attendees can also engage in kaleidoscope making, tying their activity in Military Park back to the Festival of Color & Light occurring at the Newark Museum that day from noon- 9pm.

All other events will be located in Military Park will run from noon to 5 p.m.

“As caretakers of Newark's historic commons, the Military Park Partnership is proud to host the kickoff celebration for the city's 350th anniversary, and continue the park's role as Newark's town square,” stated Dan Biederman, President of Military Park Partnership.

While additional live concerts and attractions will be announced in the days leading up to the event, the following events are confirmed: - Disc jockey, beatboxer, rapper, producer and member of the pioneering hip-hop crew Boogie Down Productions, Derrick “D-Nice” Jones will DJ a family dance party.

- WBGO’s Rhythm Revue with Felix Hernandez will broadcast live from the park on 88.3FM and WBGO.org.

- The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO) will present the NJSO Brass Quartet, performing popular musical selections from around the world.

- Touch the Music will provide an Instrument Petting Zoo, which gives children an opportunity to touch and explore classical instruments.

- Boys & Girls Club of Newark will engage younger participants in Triple Play, a program accredited by Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which motivates youth in healthful, physically engaging activities.

- Poets from the Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Program will provide a sampling of poetry that will be a prelude to the upcoming 2016 Dodge Poetry Festival. Additionally, throughout the day, Dodge Poets will invite the Newark community to contribute to a group poem about their hopes and wishes for their great city.

- The New Jersey Historical Society will host a scavenger hunt of historical sites within Military Park; each child successfully completing the scavenger hunt will win a prize to be determined.

- Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) will provide a sand art table and small archival display on their social service and advocacy work in Newark. They will also bring African drummer Queen Mother Imaku to perform and host a mini-class on drumming.

- Liberty Science Center will present their popular Science Circus for children in grades 1-8, a one-hour show that features thrilling experiments and engages volunteers from the audience.

- The Essex County Environmental Center will present Animal Tracks and Signs, a 45minute program that explores the clues animals leave behind as they move on their path.

- Nai-Ni Chen Dance will present two fun-filled workshops that will teach participants how to make rainbows, waterfalls and ocean waves with ribbons and the fundaments of Chinese dance.

- GlassRoots will provide participants with a variety of "bracelet-making packets" that include various hand-made glass beads to create a bracelet.

- Simultaneously, an experienced flameworking artist will work with a 2-inch flame on a map gas torch to demonstrate how glass is malleable at 2000+ degrees and can be shaped into glass beads and small glass objects or sculptures.

- Floyd Little's Double Dutch Inc. will feature a freestyle exhibition routine followed by crowd participation.

- Hugh McMahon will perform pumpkin carving demos while his teaching assistants guide kids through their own creations using paint and pumpkins.

- The Newark Yoga Movement will offer free yoga sessions for those seeking a peaceful afternoon while the Afro Brazilian Arts & Education Academy will conduct a high energy, multi-discipline class, including capoeira and other Afro-Brazilian arts.

- Children will have an opportunity to challenge their agility, coordination, balance, speed and endurance on the Child's Play Challenge Course, a kid-friendly obstacle course.

- Carolyn Dorfman’s high energy dancers will blend contemporary style with a little African, house, hip hop and more.

- St. Benedict’s Prep will provide their Varsity Face-painters, clowns and drum line.

- Throughout the day, the historic Trinity and St. Philip’s Cathedral (at the north end of the Park) will be open to the public. Congregation members and staff will interact with interested neighbors about the variety of intergenerational music and drama programs at the Cathedral

BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION

Everyone knows that to be really successful in business you have to meet more and more potential clients and those who can help to take your business to the next level; in other words... You Have To Network!

While some find it easier than others, networking is not something that is impossible for even the shyest ofr faint of heart... It just takes persistence... Try these networking tips and watch your business grow!

HEALTH TRANSFORMATION

Mayor Ras J. Baraka, the Newark Municipal Council, and Mayor’s Office of Clergy Affairs Aide Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree hosted the Mayor’s Office of Clergy Affairs’ Second Annual Inter-Faith Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, October 1, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Robert Treat Hotel, located at 60 Park Place, in downtown Newark. The doors opened at 8:30 a.m.

The annual event unites Newark clergy leaders from across the City to address a wide array of issues that affect residents. This year’s event was themed “Spiritual Display of Love and Unity.”

Dr. Jamal Bryant at the 2nd Annual Interfaith Clergy Breakfast

Serving as guest speaker and preacher is Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant. Dr. Bryant founded the Empowerment Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baltimore in 1999 and the church ministry has expanded rapidly in his 20 years of leadership, with its Empowerment Academy and Empowerment Family Life Center, and international ministries. Dr. Bryant also hosts TV shows that are seen in 35 cities across the United States, a radio broadcast that reaches half a million people in Africa, and internet podcasts.

Prior to his role as pastor, Dr. Bryant served as Director of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s youth and college division, responsible for more than 650 youth councils and college chapters, representing over 68,000 young people in the United States, Germany, and Japan.Mayor Ras J.

Baraka, the Newark Municipal Council, and Mayor’s Office of

GROUND BREAKING FOR DIAMOND DIRECT FOODS 140,000 square-foot, energy-efficient facility will be largest commissary on East Coast.

Monday, September 28, at 11:30 a.m., at 105 Avenue L, in the City’s East Ward.— Mayor Ras J. Baraka, East Ward Council Member Augusto Amador, Deputy Mayor of Economic and Housing Development Baye Adofo-Wilson, Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) President and CEO Otis Rolley, and other dignitaries break ground for the Diamond Direct Foods facility.

The 140,000 square-foot, energy-efficient facility will be the largest commissary on the East Coast, housed with a 40,000 square-foot USDA facility and state-of-the-art kitchen to support up to 48 food trucks inside its warehouse. The company supplies food, ice, propane, and services to food trucks, and will be a one-stop shop for hot and cold truck operators, enabling them to purchase any food products and beverages from the commercial warehouse as well as prepare them from the USDA kitchen, and then re-sell them to the public.

THE CITY JOINED WITH MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY IN ANNOUNCING $1 MILLION SCHOLARSHIP AWARD Robert Carr’s Give Something Back Foundation will assure a debt-free college education for 50 New Jersey students; Comprehensive program now brings total scholarships to 150 in the State Newark, NJ – September 24, 2015 — Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Montclair State University President Dr. Susan A. Cole, NJ business leader Robert Carr and area elected officials joined together to present a $1 million check to Montclair State University for scholarships for 50 additional New Jersey students.

Montclair State University is the third institution of higher education to partner with the foundation, increasing the total number of scholarships to 150 for the State. Program information is now being rolled out to ninth graders in New Jersey who, when accepted, will receive comprehensive support and mentoring throughout high school and college to graduate within four years, debt-free.

MAYOR BARAKA CUTS RIBBON TO LAUNCH COMMUNITY STOREFRONT PROGRAM IN NEWARK’S SOUTH WARD

Economic initiative will create coalition of business owners, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders to create vibrant community business corridor, thriving business, and new jobs for South Ward community Newark, NJ – September 25, 2015 — Mayor Ras J. Baraka, South Ward Council Member John Sharpe James, Deputy Mayor of Economic Development Baye Adofo-Wilson, and Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC) President and CEO Otis Rolley cut the ribbon to open the Community Storefront Program (CSP) at 790 Clinton Avenue in the South Ward’s Upper Clinton Hill neighborhood.

The Community Storefront Program provi des an actual “real-world” retail business incubator for entrepreneurs that will combine classroom instruction with handson retailing. This opportunity will give participants the practical training and experience necessary to learn to market their self-produced products.

“Economic development is at the core of our efforts to transform Newark into a City we can all believe in, and we are proud to bring this initiative to the South Ward’s Upper Clinton Hill today. Many Newark residents seek to create their own business and become successful entrepreneurs in their own right, and we are eager to help them succeed. In today’s increasingly complex and competitive economy, it is more critical than ever that we provide as much assistance to Newark entrepreneurs, so that they can be successful. I hope that many Newark residents participate in this class, and that they benefit from it, so they can become part of our efforts to transform Newark into a more prosperous City that we can all believe in,” said Mayor Baraka.

Established in collaboration with the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL), an independent, not-for-profit organization that supports inner city economic development through entrepreneurship, the program participants will be chosen to take part in this 16-week, WIBO program that will teach the necessary fundamentals of entrepreneurship, leadership, and business development. Participants will “set up shop” in a shared-space strip retail location and experience the full business lifecycle-concept to market. They will also gain working knowledge of bookkeeping, corporate infrastructure, insurance, leases and contracts during their training.

In May, NCEDC launched an intense, fourmonth entrepreneurial training session, for 16 students. In August, the students

graduated with a certificate from the IFEL “Workshop in Business Opportunity” program.

Under this program, NCEDC will cover all expenses (rent, utilities) for six months to support and incubate the graduates and their business. The goal is to create a cooperative environment by providing the graduates with office/work space and to operate in a shared incubator space.

NCEDC has invested almost $20,000 in the Store Front program not limited to renovations, furniture and fixtures, six months of paid utilities, six months of paid rent and signage. NCEDC and IFEL will conduct monthly one-on-one consulting/mentoring sessions with program graduates along with email and phone support for participants as needed.

In June, the City of Newark received a $75,000 award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors 2015 CommunityWINS –Working/Investing in Neighborhood Stabilization – Grant Program.

As an additional component of this program, NCEDC will connect local businesses with professional, field specific mentors and help support the existing business community associations.

About Newark CEDC: The Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NewarkCEDC) is the primary economic development catalyst for the State of New Jersey’s largest city, Newark. It is organized to retain, attract and grow businesses, enhance small and minority business capacity, and spur real estate development.

How Can I Tell If I’m Called to Pastoral Ministry?

I’ve been asked the question many times, and I’m not sure I agree with it. The question often assumes that pastors, unique among all the vocations of the world, will (and sometimesmust) have a powerful, divine, subjective call to ministry that overwhelmingly points them in their Godordained direction. I don’t see support for that sort of normative experience in Scripture.

But I understand what young men are looking for. They understand that pastoral ministry is weighty work, not to be entered into lightly. So naturally they want to know that their inclinations are not self-serving and their direction is not a fool’s errand. They are looking for a few signposts along the way to show them that they’re not obviously on the wrong road. That’s a commendable impulse.

Here are several questions you should ask yourself as you ponder a call to pastoral ministry.

7. Do I make friends easily? This is a subjective test (like so many of these questions), but a lack of meaningful friendships is not a good sign. It could be an indication that you are too harsh, too much a loner or frankly too awkward to be effective in pastoral ministry.

8. Do I like to read? Thankfully there is no GPA or SAT requirement for pastoral ministry. And yet, if we are to be “apt to teach,” we must be eager to learn. Preaching grows thin and ministry get stale without time in the Book and the books.

9. Have I thought about doing this for more than a few months? Often when students or adults come to Christ they quickly assume that because they are zealous for the Lord they ought to go seminary and prepare for the ministry.

This is usually misguided, sometimes because of pride and sometimes due to misplaced zeal. There’s a reason the Bible insists that church leaders not be recent converts.

10. Do I still want to be a pastor if I never write a book, never speak at a conference and never have a big church? Our passion must be to feed the flock, not feed our egos.

1. Do I meet the qualifications laid out in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1?

This is the place to start. If your character is not mature, stable and (in a non-perfectionist way) exemplary, then you are not ready to be a pastor.

This does not necessarily mean you are on the wrong path if you don’t yet have victory over certain sins (like pornography), but it means you won’t be ready until you meet the Scriptural standards.

2. Do the Christians who know me best consistently affirm my gifts for ministry? The most important call is the objective call of your church encouraging you to pursue pastoral ministry.

3. Do I like to teach all kinds of people in all kinds of settings? Most people thinking of pastoral ministry are excited to preach. I want to know if they are excited to preach at the Rescue Mission and excited to teach catechism to five-year-olds.

4. Do I find myself stirred by good preaching? If a man is called to preach the gospel, he should be thrilled to hear it preached. The content should move him, and he should find himself thinking “Oh, that I could proclaim this good news.”

5. Do I find myself stirred by bad preaching? The last point was obvious. This one is less so, but just as important. I think there ought to be a fire in a man’s bones when he hears the word of God handled badly.

6. Do I enjoy being around people?

Some pastors are extroverts; many are not. I’m sort of in the middle. I look forward to being with people more than some pastors I know, but not nearly as much as many men I admire.

But whatever your personality, you won’t be a good pastor if you don’t like people and recoil from them as much as possible.

Join Sister Shonda, Johnnie Mae, Deacon Eugene, Minister Brenda, and Pastor Rick on Friday, October 23RD at Seton Hall University’s Duffy Hall 2nd floor for this “TIME OUT” Bible study movie night!!! Start Time 7pm Sharp.

The event is FREE and there will be FREE RefreshmentsAvailable.

$7.4 MILLION FEDERAL PUBLIC SAFETY GRANT

The Federal “S.A.F.E.R.” grant funding will be used to hire 38 new firefighters Newark, NJ – September 21, 2015 — Mayor Ras J. Baraka, U.S. Senators Cory A. Booker and Robert Menendez, U.S. Congressmen Donald M. Payne, Jr. and Albio Sires, Newark Municipal Council Members, Fire Director James W. Stewart, and Fire Chief John G. Centanni announced a new federal $7.4 million “S.A.F.E.R.” (Staffing Adequate Fire Emergency Responders) public safety grant to the City of Newark, at a press conference today, at the Clinton Avenue Firehouse, located at 360 Clinton Avenue, in Newark’s Central Ward.

The funds will be used to enable the Newark Fire Department to hire and train 38 new firefighters. In addition, the grant will pay their salaries for their first two years on the force. The award will assist the Fire Department in maintaining adequate staffing levels, which were reached through previous grants.

“We wish to thank FEMA and the members of New Jersey’s federal delegation, Senators Booker and Menendez and Congressmen Payne and Sires, for acknowledging the efforts of Newark’s firefighters and emergency response workers with the SAFER Grant,” said Mayor Baraka.

“Newark is the State of New Jersey’s largest city — an urban center which is

home to one of the nation’s largest air, rail and shipping hubs, as well as more than 280,000 residents, and growing — and our service needs are complex. The SAFER grant will enhance our staffing needs for firefighters and emergency response workers and our efforts to deliver to the citizens of Newark deserve the best services possible, and help us continue to transform Newark into a safer City we can all believe in,” he added.

“New Jersey’s firefighters and fire departments protect our communities,” said Senator Booker. “But they can’t do their job if they don’t have the staff and resources they need. Not only will this grant create 38 good-paying jobs here in Newark, but it will help the brave men and women of the Newark Fire Department save lives and ensure public safety.”

“Our first responders put their lives on the line each day, and we must make certain that they have the resources they need to save lives,” said Senator Menendez. “This critical federal funding is our way of saying thank you to our heroes for

keeping us safe, and it will help ensure the Newark Fire Department is adequately staffed and our firefighters ready to answer the bell when emergencies strike.”

“Every day, our firefighters take very real risks to keep us safe, and they deserve our best efforts to ensure they can successfully perform their duties and protect themselves from harm,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “As Newark continues to grow, it is essential that its fire department has the resources and personnel needed to keep up with that growth. This funding will enhance the safety and efficiency of the Newark Fire Department as they continue to ensure the well-being of our community.”

“Our communities depend on the bravery and heroism of our first responders each and every day,” said Representative Sires.

“This grant will help our state's largest fire

department better meet the needs of its constituents.”

The SAFER program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and seeks to increase the number of frontline firefighters, enhancing the ability of departments to attain and maintain 24-hour staffing and assuring that their communities have adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards.

The SAFER program has provided a total of $55.8 million in grants to New Jersey fire departments throughout FY 2014, including a $21 million grant to the Atlantic City Fire Department announced

by Menendez and Booker earlier this month that will prevent the layoffs of 85 local firefighters.

NEWARK PRESS RELEASE

Newark Faces Possibility of 9% Tax Hike???

The Ras Baraka Administration is examining the prospect of a ninepercent property tax increase in the city of Newark, according to a source familiar with developing backroom dialogues around the budget.

In October of last year, state officials approved an $800 million city budget for Newark while warning of coming financial catastrophe due in part to uncollected healthcare premium payments. As it headed into the 2014 budget cycle, Newark faced a $93 million deficit.

The Baraka Administration did not confirm or deny the active discussion between city council members and the mayor’s representatives regarding a possible nine-percent tax hike.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, another source could not confirm a nine percent property tax hike but said, “There’s going to be some increase. That’s the nature of the beast, but there will be a dog and pony show. I don’t think that figure is final.” A third source confirmed the proposed increase.

THE BROTHER’S KEEPER’S Monthly Meeting Every 3rd Tuesday @ 7pm @THE TRANSFORMATION CENTER 628 GROVE STREET IRVINGTON NJ (Side Entrance) Where a man can come to talk about and get help in Building your faith ;Strengthening your family; Increasing your finances; Enhancing your ministry And growing closer to the females in your life.

by Curtis D. Mincey The truth is we don't want to know the truth.

There I said it. I believe the reality is that people that say they want to hear and know the truth, aren't really searching for the truth. As a matter of fact for most of humanity the truth hurts. The truth cuts like a two edged sword. It leaves us bruised and cut, covered with blood and writhing in pain. The truth exposes lies and liberates those that have embraced them. The truth reveals the need for an interior cleansing that comes from an exterior source. The truth inspires us to loosen our grip on the current traditions of our culture. It encourages us to embrace the reality that our way is not the best way.

When we say we want the truth, what we may be saying is. I want a truth that is relevant and convenient. I want a truth that doesn't challenge me to change. I want a truth that will accept me just the way I am; and will allow me to stay the way I am. Could it be that we know that the real truth is challenging and critical.

That it will expose us for who and what we really are. That I believe is why the bible is so important, because it tells us the truth.

Within those sixty six books that make up the bible there is truth. There is the truth about our creator. There is the truth about our creation.

There is the truth about our nature. There is the truth about our need for a Savior. Within the pages of this divinely inspired book there is the truth about our destiny without the Savior, and our eternity with the Savior.

This book is called the sword of the spirit. It is the inspired God breathed word of God. It is a

sword that helps us in our battle against the forces of spiritual darkness and wickedness. It is a weapon that is to be used against a very real enemy. It is also an instrument of destruction that if not used properly can inflict serious damage to the one that would misuse it. Over the course of time millions of lives have been freed from the shackles of an oppressive culture of greed, envy, lust and murder. Yet at the same time millions of lives have been destroyed because of an unwillingness to submit to what is written in this book.

Now is the time to take advantage of this moment to read, learn and embrace the truth.

Now is the time to follow, and commit to the truth. Now is the time to know the truth for youself. Now is the time to open your hands and be free from the culture that has you bound to it's demonic system. Now is the time trust in the Lord God, acknowledge Jesus as the Savior, and believe that only Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. What do you consider to be truth?

MATTERS

by Curtis D. Mincey Whenever something major or something tragic happens involving people there is almost always some type of response. The most common response we see is some type of protest. Be it a march, a rally, a sit in, a hunger strike. Recently here in America because of the tragic deaths of African Americans at the hands of the police. A movement has been birthed called "Black Lives Matter". I have not done a lot of research about this movement because there really is no need. Why? Because people are upset about the fact that so many people of color have been murdered by cops.

Yes I said it. But this is just a simple question. Are those same people using that same amount of energy to protest with marches, and rally's and sit in's against the street gangs and drug dealers and prostitutes that are destroying our cities? Just saying.

Or is it just more convenient to attack the government and the police and say it's all their fault. It's their fault that many of our youth choose not to go to school, choose not to obey the authorities, choose to make babies they can't take care of. Is it really the fault of the mayor or the governor or the police that many of our youth have given up hope and have no real desire to do better.

Did the President of the United States of America step out of the White House, drive to the ghetto drop off a couple of bags filled with guns and drugs and say "okay handle your business?" No he didn't.

So what that means is we as a nation, as human

beings, have to stop pointing the finger at external causes for the destruction of our society, and start take responsibility for our own communities. We as a collective have to ask and answer this very important question. What really matters.

Now as a preacher my answer to that question is the Gospel matters. The good news that Jesus died on the cross for sinners is what matters. The fact that God, the eternal creator loved this world so much. That He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him. Should not perish but have everlasting life.Is what matters. That the word of God can transform a pimp, a gangster, a prostitute, a drug addict, a drug dealer, an ex-con, a thief, an unwed mother, a deadbeat father, a runaway teenager, into a child of God filled with the Holy Ghost. That is no longer walking down the road to destruction. But is now walking up the narrow path of righteousness. That's what matters.

What matters is that thousands of lives are changed because of the gospel every day.

Somewhere on this planet a men and women are going back home to their families because of the power of the gospel. Someone will avoid the torment of an eternal hell and will enjoy the pleasure of an eternal paradise because of the gospel. Yes black lives matter, and unborn babies lives matter, women's lives matter, and all lives matter. But what really matters is the love of God and the plan of salvation that he offers through the gospel. What matters to you?

LIFE TRANSFORMATION

BE YOURSELF The general assumption now days is, “You’re not good enough.” You’re not handsome enough or pretty enough. You’re not strong enough or smart enough. But the reality is that statement is true for everybody. Nobody is really good enough.

But if we tune out the voices of the media and the general public that is trying to convince us that we should be be like the people on TV or someone in the neighborhood. If we take the time to just be ourselves we might discover that life can be more enjoyable. So here are some things to consider when it comes to being yourself.

1. Look in the mirror, then look at a picture of someone you may be pretending to be. See the difference? You’re not that person. No matter how cool you think that person is, you can’t be that person.

2. Make a recording of your yourself and listen to the sound of your own voice. Notice how unique you sound. Appreciate it and use it to make an impact.

3. Think about your past. That’s your story and nobody can take that away from you. It’s what made you who you are today. Let it motivate you to do and be better. Remember you can’t live someone else’s story.

4. Embrace your flaws. All of them. It’s okay, there is no such thing as a perfect human being. All of us have flaws. Some good, some bad. Work on those areas you need to improve on and keep living.

5. Celebrate the good stuff. Such as your talents, gifts and personality. Those are the things that actually make you interesting. Seriously.

6. Thank God and don’t give up. God made you the way you are for a reason. To give Him glory by being the person He created you to be, and to do the things that He created you to do.

7. Stop worrying about what other people think about you. Truth is most people aren’t paying you any mind anyway. So relax go out there and enjoy life to the fullest.

What else would you add to this list?

MINISTRY TRANSFORMATION

MINISTRY GROWTH MINISTRY GROWTH Church leaders all over the world would love for their ministry to have an impact in the community that their in. Some leaders want to see an end to poverty or sex trafficking. Other leaders would love to see the ministry grow in size. But whatever the desire is the important thing to remember is we are all doing God’s will. But if you would like to see your ministry grow and become more effect here are some things to think about that might help.

1. Ask for God’s anointing. That should go without saying. But remember if you don’t have that supernatural empowerment to do what you believe God has called you to do then you are powerless. It is through the anointing that the words the speaker says have that supernatural affect that convicts people of their sin and draws them to Christ.

2. Be yourself. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard young preachers try to imitate another preacher. Some may take this as a form of flattery, but God has created you to be you. So be yourself. The Lord called you into ministry so your voice, your mannerisms and your personality would be used to preach and teach His word. If you want to give God glory, be yourself.

3. Speak english. I know that may seem strange.

But I’ve been around many Christians that speak christianese. It’s this weird way Christians have of communicating with one another using biblical language and misquoted bible verses. If you have a lot of new believers in your congregation

teach them in ways they will be able to understand. They need to be strengthened in their faith and in their understanding of the word of God. If you don’t they just might leave.

4. Don’t be a legalist. The reality is there is no such thing as a perfect Christian. All of us have sinned and fallen short of giving God glory through our life. Why try to heap a bunch of rules on people that we can’t follow ourselves. Teach the word of God and let the word cut, convict and transform your congregation. Remember you can’t teach the grace of God and bully your people with rules, traditions and regulations.

5. If possible try to get to know your sheep. With some congregations being mega churches, getting to know all of the members of the flock is just to much to ask for. But if it’s possible try to spend some time with some of your church members. Visit some of the sick and shut in. Visit those that are in nursing homes and hospitals.

Talk to them face to face. This shows that you care and value them as members of your congregation.

6. Remember your preaching and teaching real people with real problems and issues. All of them need to be built up in their faith. All of them need to be instructed in how to get through the various trials and circumstances that they’re going through. A lot of them may not be able to go through on their own. Some of them will need you to hold their hand as they journey through life. Try to be there for them as much as you can.

Why the Happiest, Most Successful People in Business Say “NO” to Almost Everything INVESTOR STORIES AND LESSONS

What is the difference between successful and average? Why do successful people seem more relaxed and less stressed, and yet they accomplish so much more?

All too often we believe that success comes down to willpower. We are brought up thinking of work as having a direct correlation to success. Therefore, more work equals more success. If someone is doing well, we believe it’s because they have the willpower to do more work.

“The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say ‘no’ to almost everything.” – Warren Buffett.

Think of willpower as investing in stocks.

We all start the day with a certain amount and invest a little in every activity we do.

Most people start their day at work investing their willpower into checking emails, constant interruptions, and trying to accomplish a good day’s work. When they get home, they’ve already invested 90% of their willpower to maintain the

status quo. There’s only 10% left to invest in getting ahead.

Your success will ultimately depend on the proportion of your willpower you invest in getting ahead.

Related: 6 Ridiculous Excuses That Are Holding You Back From Real Estate Success

Creating Goals is the First Step The first step in being more successful is defining your success. Where do you want to go and what it will it take to get there?

You need a scorecard to compare your daily activities to. You need to be able to ask, “Is this activity going to get to where I want to be, or should I say no?” Only once you have this idea in your mind should you read on.

Do Your Activities Help or Hurt Your Goals?

Make list of all of the activities you do in an average day. Every one of them. Now, put “+” signs next to the activities that are helping you get to where you need to be.

Put a “-” next to the activities that are taking you in the opposite direction. What “-” activities can you say no to so you have more time for the “+” activities? This isn’t an easy task, but that’s why so few people end up successful.

Willpower is Strongest in the Morning You have the most willpower in the morning and slowly spend it throughout the day. If you want to learn about real estate investing, get in shape, or do something amazing, start working on it in the morning when willpower is the

greatest. Have you ever wondered why most jobs start in the morning? Employers want to maximize your willpower to their benefit. Waking up and doing important tasks in the morning will help you invest more in yourself. Let your job get what’s left over, not your future.

“If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planed for you? Not much.” – Jim Rohn Related: The Simple Mentality That Sets Successful Investors Apart From the Rest

Conclusion Saying yes to everything is being lazy. It brings a false sense of accomplishment and importance. If you say yes all the time, you are investing your willpower into someone else’s success. It’s no different than going on a long road trip and giving gas to every person on the side of the road with a sign. Bad idea.

Bronnie Ware was a palliative nurse whose patients only had only a few months to live. She would ask them what they regretted before they died. The number one answer was: “I wished I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.” And in second place: “I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.”

You only have one life to live. If you invest all of your willpower into activities that aren’t helping you get where you want to be, to live the life you dream of, then you’re wasting it.

What are you going to say no to?