2013 Newark NAACP Program Journal

New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP President’s Greetings

Greetings: I am proud to extend my sincere “congratulations” on behalf of the Officers, Executive Committee and members of the New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP as you celebrate your 99th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner.

President Smith-Gregory we thank you for your stalwart commitment towards ensuring the continued advancement of equality and justice in the City of Newark.

I personally would like to commend your Freedom Fund Awards Dinner committee for their hard work and because of their commitment I sincerely trust that this event will be a productive and enjoyable occasion for all present.

The New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP is very proud to publicly acknowledge the extraordinary contributions that have been made by your honorees.

It is imperative that we remain committed to building an America that ensures the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination.

The civil rights champions who have gone before us did so much more with so much less that we must commit ourselves in this generation to do so much more with so much more.

I extend to everyone here my highest hopes for the future and for a successful and inspirational event. I hope you’ll leave re-invigorated and ready for the job that remains ahead.

Best wishes, Best wishes, Richard T. Smith President – NAACP – New Jersey State Conference

It’s my pleasure to welcome you to our 99th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner!

This year our theme is: “We Shall Not Be Moved!”

Newark Unit, NAACP President’s Greetings

Welcome to the 99th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner of the Newark Branch NAACP. The national theme of this year is “We Shall Not Be Moved.” Reflecting upon the relevancy of the statement, I thought about its meaning for today.

Our ancestors were steadfast and immovable in their conviction of acquiring opportunities for a better life. Enslaved but not defeated, they solidly stood for family and community. Their strength allowed them to endure a holocaust. Steadfast in the belief that no matter the circumstances, we could still possess self- respect, pride and dignity.

Moving toward the next century:

For the past 99 years, Newark NAACP has not been moved from its mission to advocate for equality.

We shall not be moved from advocating for an end to racial disparities at all levels of the penal system and smarter criminal justice policies; We shall not be moved from working to increase the number of registered voters, promoting voter education and empowerment; We shall not be moved from addressing discriminatory housing practices; We shall not be moved from advocating equal access to healthcare, treatment and research; We shall not be moved from working to eliminate discriminatory practices regarding wages, training, promotions and dismissals; We shall not be moved from coordinating youth programs promoting leadership; We shall not be moved from enlisting the moral support of the religious community to address civil rights initiatives.

We shall not be moved from addressing discriminatory practices in public education; WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED!!

We will stand steadfast in the credos set forth by Paul Robeson, Frederick Douglass, Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Dr. WEB Dubois, a NAACP Founding Father. We will stand steadfast in the strength of Fannie Lou Hamer, Sojourner Truth, Angela Davis and Shirley Chisholm, Eddiemae Livingston and Sally G. Carroll.

We shall not be moved to abdicate our advances; We shall not be moved to retreat and go backward We shall not be moved to erase the history of our great ancestors.

We shall not be moved to give up on our children We shall not be moved to say there is no hope, no future for people of color.

We shall not be moved by fear or intimidation as we grapple with the modern day challenges of subliminal and overt brainwashing from racist negativity.

We will keep our eyes on the prize of a better quality of life in America, the Land of the Free that our history, culture and free labor helped to build.

We will stand for justice, equality, a positive quality of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness in America’s land of “opportunity”. We will stand for the greater good of our community and ultimately this nation. We will stand for our ancestors’ faith, honor, Godliness, perseverance, examples and love.

The Newark Branch NAACP celebrates 100 years of service to the Newark community in 2014. Stay tuned for a year of activities that enlighten, inform and inspire the community to do more. We can’t rest as we do not live in a post racial society. We remain committed and willing to organize, advocate, agitate and work in unity for our greater good.

WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED!!

Sincerely,

Deborah Smith-Gregory, President, NAACP – Newark Branch

Beverly Miller Freedom Fund Awards Dinner Co-Chairperson It has been an honor and privilege to serve as Co-Chair of the Newark NAACP 99th Freedom Fund Dinner Committee. As a Life Member of the Newark NAACP, joy and pride run through me.

In serving, I have been able to return some of the many keys that have been handed to me, such as Encouragement, Kindness, Hope and Faith. These keys further assist in unlocking the doors to Education, Freedom, Social and Economic Justice and Equality.

The master key that has been issued to us all at the age of 18, is labeled “Right to Vote (after you register to vote)”.

And due to the ultimate sacrifices that have been given to forge this key, I encourage you to use yours. “No Vote” always equals “No Voice”. Or we will continue to walk in virtual shackles.

For all your never- ending love and support, We Thank You! Congratulations to our honorees for your service to the community.

P.S. Are you a NAACP Card Carrying Member?

Jay Jewell, Jr. Freedom Fund Awards Dinner Co-Chairperson Greetings to all, and thank you for your attendance at the 99th Annual Newark Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Awards Dinner. Looking back on the past years, much has changed. Today we have an African-American president, Mr. Barak Obama and the national NAACP turned 103 years young and full of life.

On the opposite side of the coin much has not changed. Racism and injustice still haunts us and rears its evil head. The death of Trayvon Martin, the disruptive actions of the Republican Tea Party are just two reasons why the need for the NAACP is so important. It is needed now as much as when it was formed in 1909. The life-blood of the NAACP is you, the member or soon to be member. Again, we thank you for joining us and we will look forward to seeing you in 2014 at our 100th anniversary gala. Thank you.

2013-2015 Newark NAACP Officers Deborah Smith Gregory………………………President Kathleen Turpin Merritt……………………..1st Vice President Dadisi Sanyika……………………………………2nd Vice President John L. Smith………………………………………3rd Vice President Debra J. Chandler………………………………..Secretary Beverly Miller…………………………………….Assistant Secretary Cheryl Bush……………………………………….Treasurer Julia McIver………………………………………..Assistant Treasurer

2013-2015 Executive Committee Linda Campbell Aaron Rev. Ralph Branch Richard Cammarieri Sally G. Carroll Dennis Daniels Elder Judith C. Favors Dorothy Givens Hardy Holmes John Jay Jewell Lavita Johnson James Jukes. Esq. Janice L. Morrell Tracy L. Munford Rick Robinson III Joyce Simmons J. Barry Washington

Newark Branch NAACP Celebrating 100 years ~ 1914-2014

In December of 1914, a group of citizens came together to form the Newark, New Jersey Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The original intent of these 79 men and women was to seek equal opportunity for themselves and their community. Today, the Newark Branch stands as the second oldest chapter and the largest branch in the State.

On the eve of its centennial celebration, the Newark Branch remains committed to advancing political, educational, social and economic equality. Let us continue for the benefit of our future generations.

Past Presidents of the Newark Branch NAACP…Remember, Honor, Go Forward 2010-2012 2005-2007 1999-2001 1990-1994 1981-1984 1975-1979 1963-1966 1955-1958 1947-1950 1940’s 1934Early 1930’s 1916-1920

Ms. Joyce Simmons Ms. Dorothea Lee* Mr. Daniel Williams Ms. Jacqueline Lawrence * Mr. Bobie Cottle Mr. Norman Threadgill* Rev. Boyd B. Cantrell* Mr. Samuel A. Haynes* Hon. Harry Hazelwood Jr.* Mr. Leroy Baxter* Ms. Lillian A. Simmons* Ms. Anna M. Monroe* Mr. J. M. Stoute*

2007-2009 Mr. John L. Smith 2002-2004 Mr. Keith Jones 1995-1998 Ms. Susie M. McGhee 1984-1989 Mr. Keith M. Jones 1979-1981 Ms. Eldora Maynard* 1967-1974 Ms. Sally G. Carroll 1959Mr. Carlton B. Norris* 1953-1955 Mr. Theodore Pettigrew* 1934-1947 Mr. James A. Curtis* Late 30’s Ms. Grace Fenderson* Mid 1930’s Rev. Louis H. Berry* 1920Mr. R. W. Stewart* *Denotes deceased members

Mary G. Bennett Education Award Honoree

Mary G. Bennett has 40 years of experience in public education. She is a product of the Newark public school system. She attended Fifteenth Avenue School and graduated from West Side High School. Her career as an educator began at Barringer HS in the English/Language Arts department. After ten years of teaching, she was promoted and assigned to her alma mater, West Side HS, as an assistant principal. Next, she directed a special state funded project out of central office that focused on developing an articulation program for students as they transitioned from grade eight to high school. This initiative was the district’s first effort to look at schools through a feeder system concept. Following this assignment, Ms. Bennett was assigned to Malcolm X Shabazz HS, where she was appointed the first female principal of the school in 1989. She held that position until she retired in 1999.

Mary Bennett has had the opportunity to work with several federally supported projects. Her work with GEAR UP through the National Center for Educational Alliances and the USDOE helped to develop the framework that is still used in cities awarded GEAR UP grants today. As a Senior Fellow for the National Center for Urban Partnerships, she was the Project Manager for the USDOE’s International Synergy Program in Pietermartizburg, South Africa for two years in the Kwa Zulu Natal region to enable students and adults to develop literacy through the iNdlovu Partnership for Lifelong Learning.

She was appointed Executive Director of Project GRAD Newark in the fall of 2001. GRAD (Graduation Really Achieves Dreams) is an authorized federal program. Its funding, however, is not provided by the government. GRAD is in eight US cities focused on academic development, strengthening home-school relationships, educational persistence through high school graduation and earning a college degree.

GRAD Newark’s most unique feature is the Alcatel-Lucent Scholarships that have been awarded for twelve consecutive years to a total of 966 high school graduates from two comprehensive high schools, Central and Malcolm X Shabazz. GRAD Newark supports and monitors the students as they work their way through college.

Mary Bennett believes that a quality education changes a person’s life and enables them to make choices about the life they want for themselves, their family and their community. She teaches at Montclair State University in the School of Education and works with Seton Hall University’s Institute for Urban Transformation.

She is the proud grandmother is Zara, Timothy and Jonathan.

Al Tariq Best

Community Service Honoree

Al-Tariq W. Best is the CEO and Founder of the FP Youth Outcry Foundation, Inc. established in 2006.

Al Tariq Best has over 15 years of supervisory, operations management and multi-media technical experience. Best also has more than 20 years in the music industry as a performer, writer, and producer.

Born and raised in the city of Newark, he would discover his “calling” and become a voice and change agent for today’s youth and their families, through his work as a community leader, activist, motivational speaker and mentor.

Best and the foundation have received numerous awards, among them: “The Spirit of Newark” award

by Newark Now and Mayor Cory A Booker, Citizen of the Year Award from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Central Ward Community Champion Award from Newark Youth Connection and the “Excellence in Community Service Award” by Odyssey International Productions. He continues to live true to the FP mission “Entertain, Educate and Empower!”

FP YOUTHOUTCRY Foundation is a 501c3 organization that builds up youth, families and the communities within the City of Newark and surrounding areas.

FP YOUTHOUTCRY is one of the more progressive non-profits in the city and has impacted the lives of more than 10,000 children and families with innovative programming and events. They believe you cannot solely help the youth without meeting the needs of their families.

Their mission is to increase opportunities for success by providing programs, services and events to under-served youth and their families through experiences that Entertain, Educate and Empower.

Mr. Best is currently finishing up the construction of FP’s Community Empowerment HUBB (Help Us Become Better). This facility has been strategically constructed into three major categories of human development: Entertainment, Education and Empowerment. The HUBB will represent community empowerment in the truest form.

Dr. Mamie L. Bridgeforth Mistress Of Ceremony

Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth is the Chairperson of the Division of Social Sciences at Essex County College. She is the longest serving Chair and in that capacity she is responsible for the supervision of 9 academic departments and an estimated 120 full-time and adjunct faculty members. The Division of Social Sciences consistently has the most graduates at commencement.

In June 1998, Dr. Bridgeforth made history when she became the first woman to be elected to lead a political ward in the City of Newark. Her election as the West Ward Councilperson ushered in a new era of political leadership at the Ward level in the City.

Dr. Bridgeforth is a Licensed Social Worker (L.S.W.) in the State of New Jersey and holds a permanent Social Studies teaching certificate. Dr. Bridgeforth is a former member of the Editorial Board of Annual Editions/Social Problems: McGraw-Hill/ Dushkin Publishing Company.

Throughout her professional and personal career, Dr. Bridgeforth has worked to enhance the quality of life of the citizens of Newark. She organized the first homeless day camp in the City of Newark and became the founder of the “Magic Kingdom Express” yearly bus tour to Orlando, Florida for underprivileged urban youngsters. Recognizing the struggle so many parents experience providing for their children, Dr. Bridgeforth established the “West Ward Children’s New Winter Coat Drive” upon her inauguration to the office of West Ward Councilperson. During her tenure, she distributed over 3,000 new coats to West Ward youngsters in the City of Newark. Currently, Dr. Bridgeforth‘s ministry provides free nutritional hot dinner every Sunday for the community at Faith Christian Center from 1:30-2:30. All are welcome.

Dr. Bridgeforth has received many awards and recognitions. Among them has been the “Inner City Education Award,” the “National, International and Pan–American Sambo Federation Award,” the “Sharing Network Appreciation Award” and the “United States Army Appreciation Award” to name a few. She is a member of numerous academic and professional organizations. She was a Founding Board Member of Offenders Aid and Restoration and the Founder of Daughters of Deborah, a reentry, educational program for women.

Called to the ministry over a decade ago, Dr. Bridgeforth is an ordained minister and is currently Pastor of the Faith Christian Center Ministries in Newark, New Jersey. She is the founder of Lazarus Ministries and the Administrator of the New Jersey Coalition of Outreach Ministries. She is also a trustee of R.E.M.A., the Resident Ministers Alliance.

She was married to the late Deacon Lawrence Bridgeforth, for 47 years, and they have three daughters: Leah, Lawren and Na Deen; three sons: who are Pastors; eight grandchildren: Stephanie, Alanna, Deven, Rose, Kayla, Jeremiah, Trinity, Aaron and one great grandson Xavier.

Dr. Bridgeforth holds an Associate Degree from Essex County College; a Baccalaureate from Rutgers University in American History and a Masters Degree in Social Work (Administrative Concentration) from the Rutgers Graduate School of Social Work. She holds an Advance Certification in Gerontology and she is a Certified HIV Family Counselor.

Called to the ministry, Dr. Bridgeforth pursued and received a Ph.D in Religious Studies from Victory Temple School of Ministry and has undertaken postgraduate studies at Liberty University Baptist Seminary in Lynchburg Virginia.

Known as a powerful preacher, she is an ordained Elder and a licensed Chaplain.

She credits her success in life to her 96 year old mother, Lucille White, who was called home in June 2013 and an unwavering belief that God is faithful. What He promised that He will do.

Bob Pickett Keynote Speaker Bob Pickett has been a practicing attorney since 1972 specializing in corporate and educational matters. As an attorney, Bob has vast experience in complex litigation, both civil and criminal, and appellate litigation. He is a member of the Bars of the State of Michigan and New Jersey, the U.S. Supreme Court, The U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the 3rd and 6th Circuits.

Bob has been an on-air personality and co-host for KISS-FM’s and WBLS-FM’s Award winning Sunday morning public affairs program, OPENLINE (8 A.M. to 9 A.M. with an OnLine 2nd Hour), along with Bob Slade and music legend, James Mtume for nearly 20 years. Bob was also on on-air personality on KISS- FM’s former Sunday evening weekly news (11 P.M.) Program, WEEK IN REVIEW, with Bob Slade, Charles “The CutMan” Etheridge and Peter ‘the Flamethrower” Noel for nearly 20 years.

Bob was also the Executive Producer, Writer and Producer of The Legend Series for KISS-FM and Producer for KISSFM’s Soul Beginnings Show – a nostalgic look back at R&B music and the events that shaped the music----which won the NY Metro A.I.R. Award for Best Evening Show in NYC. Bob is the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his activities as an attorney and as a radio personality on KISS-FM and WBLS-FM, including two Achievement In Radio Awards for the Best Public Affairs Show in NY, The OpenLine Show, and the Garden State Association of Black Journalists award for the Best Syndicated Show, Visions of Black America, as producer and writer for the series.

Bob received his Juris Doctorate degree from The University of Michigan Law School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and undergraduate degree with honors from the Honors College at Kent State University, Kent, Ohio. He was instrumental in helping to shape the historic events that occurred on May 4, 1970 at Kent State as featured in the book “Kent State: What Happened And Why” by Pulitzer Prize winning author, James Michener.

Between law school and Kent State, Bob served as an Aide to U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey in the White House during the summer and fall of 1968, assisting in the development of urban policy, youth empowerment programs and campaign advance political planning for the Vice President.

Bob has vast experience in school law and educational matters having served as General Counsel to the Newark School District and as Administrative Law Judge in the Office of Administrative Law. Bob also served as Assistant Counsel to Governor James Florio for Education and Administrative Law issues and helped the Governor shape his response to the Abbott vs. Burke ruling in 1991 which resulted in the Governor increasing school funding to urban schools to $500 million dollars. .

He is one of the Founders of the Black United Fund of New Jersey, Inc., (now known as the African American Fund of NJ) New Jersey’s leading black philanthropic organization. Bob is currently General Counsel to the Plainfield School District in NJ with his firm Pickett & Craig, Esqs.

Bob is married to artist Marsha Pickett. They have two daughters – Sara Elisabeth Pickett, a model and actress; and Samantha Taylor Pickett, Esq., an attorney and producer/film executive with Universal Pictures / Focus Features in Los Angeles, California

— Newark Unit NAACP —

99th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner Program

Reception.................................................................... Cocktail Hour Samples Sponsored by Double Cross Vodka Processional................................................................................................................................................. Dais Guests Welcome & Introduction of Mistress of Ceremony............................................................... John Jewel & Beverly Miller Freedom Fund Committee Co-Chairpersons Mistress of Ceremony...................................Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth, Social Science Chairperson Essex County College Invocation & Blessing of the Food............................... Elder Judith C. Favors, Greater Rose of Sharon Church of God

Newark NAACP Religious Affairs Co-Chairperson “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing”.............................................................................................................. Silky Carter, Vocalist Greetings................................................................................. Deborah S. Gregory, President, Newark Branch NAACP

Richard Smith, President, NJ State Conference NAACP

Food For Thought........................................................ Madrid Smith, 2013 Newark ACT-SO National Oratory Medalist

Dinner Served/Music by Dr. Dexter Allgood Introduction of Key Note Speaker..............................................................................................Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth Keynote Speaker....................................................................................... Judge Bob Pickett, Open Line Host Musical Selection........................................................................................................................... Silky Carter, Vocalist

Presentation of Awards Education............................................................................. Mary G. Bennett, Former Director, Project GRAD

Presenter: Kathleen Turpin Merritt , 1st Vice Presidentr Community Service................................................................. Al Tariq Best, CEO FPYouthoutcry Foundation

Presenter: Dadisi Sanyika, 2nd Vice President Donald M. Payne Sr. Political Action............................ Wayne Richardson, President Laborer's Local 55

Presenter: John L. Smith 3rd. VP and Payne Family Economic Development................................................................... Theresa G. Marshall, Newark Developer

Presenter: Janice L. Morrell, Economic Dev. Chairperson NAACP Branch Service.................................................................................................................... Sally G. Carroll

Presenter: Cheryl D. Bush, Treasurer Presentation of Life Memberships.......................... Sally G. Carroll, Life Membership Chairperson Acknowledgement and Closing Remarks........................................................................Deborah S. Gregory, President Benediction.................................................................Rev. Ralph Branch Jr. Pastor, Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist

Newark NAACP Religious Affairs Co-Chairperson

Sally G. Carroll Newark Branch Award

Sally G. Carroll was born in Virginia and raised in New Jersey. She attended Newark schools and graduated from South Side High School, (now Malcolm X Shabazz). She later attended the old Essex Community College, located on Broadway.

She was one of the first women to be appointed to the Newark Police Department, assigned to the juvenile squad. Later she transferred to the Essex County Sheriff ’s office, where she started as a court attendant and worked to rank of detective.

In 1997 she was named by Governor Brendan T. Byrne and confirmed by the New Jersey State Senate to become the first woman to serve on the NJ State Parole Board, retiring in 1991.

Beginning in 1962, Sally became involved with the Newark Branch NAACP and still remains actively involved today. She has served as secretary, treasurer and life membership chairperson. Sally served as president of the Branch from 1967to 1974. Under her tenure, she established an Urban Program department that included a day care center and two cultural centers. Under her presidency, the Newark Branch opened its first office housed in a donated building.

In 1984, she was elected to the National Board of Directors of NAACP and retired after 18 years of service. During that time, she was appointed to chair the Committee of Branches by Julian Bond, Chairman of the National Board of Directors.

In addition, Sally has been active in the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Womens’ Clubs, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Newark.

Sally has been the backbone of the Newark Branch, working with all the presidents and executive members to ensure the relevancy and continuity of the organization.

Since the 1960’s, she has provided guidance and unselfish, unwavering support to branch operations.

Sally’s motto: “Service to others is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.”

Theresa Marshall Economic Development Award Honoree Dr. Theresa Hooper Marshall is President of The Hooper Group, Inc. a national food and beverage hospitality services organization and ADVENTUS II Inc., a construction management company. She has turned both enterprises into positive operations that have stellar reputations as customer-focused firms.

Born and raised in Newark, she earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and initially worked as music teacher in the Newark school system. The only girl and youngest in a family of seven brothers, her mother Willa Bell Hooper was a popular and long standing community activist and schoolteacher.

Eager to further her knowledge, she earned a Masters Degree in Administration and Supervision of Higher Education at Columbia University and a Doctorate of Humanities from Rutgers University. While at Rutgers, she was the Director of the Afro-American House at Douglass College, which became a center for cultural activities under her tenure.

In 1977, the NJ Department of Higher Education hired her as the Associate Director of State and Community Colleges. In 1982, she accepted a Presidential Appointment to serve as the executive director of the U.S. Department of Education Intergovernmental Advisory Council on Education (IACE) a senior executive position with senate confirmation. In that capacity, she reported directly to the Congress and the President When her brother called for support of the family construction company, she readily responded which resulted in a radical career change. She subsequently started her own construction management company known as ADVENTUS II, Inc. One of the high points of her business success was the first joint venture work on the NJ Performing Arts Center in Newark. This effort culminated in what has become an on going partnership with Turner Construction Company and on-going services to NJIT including the building of the Library and Electrical Engineering Building for the past 10 years.

In 2000, she was recommended to purchase franchise rights for a TGI Friday’s at Liberty International Airport. In response to this opportunity, Dr. Marshall launched the Hooper Group, as a hospitality services management company. The vision of the Hooper Group is to operate in the hospitality industry, providing food and beverages services in transportation hubs and entertainment arenas. The Hooper Group currently owns and operates 2 TGIF franchise operations at the Newark International Airport. As an aside, Dr. Marshall became the first African American woman to own a TGIF. Most recently, she serves as the Chairperson of the Lincoln Park Coast Cultural District, a non profit organization committed to planning designing, building and revitalizing the downtown Lincoln Park area.

They have built 300 new ‘green’ housing units and are creating Lincoln Park Museum of African American music, a Smithsonian affiliate.

She also serves as Vice Chair of the World Council of Peoples for the United Nations and is a member of the Academic Mexicana de Derecho Internacional. She is a board member of the NJ Restaurant Association and also sits on the Board of the Community Development Corporation for New Market Tax Credits.

Dr. Marshall is the proud mother of one daughter, Erica who is a curator in Baltimore, Maryland.

Wayne L. Richardson Donald M. Payne, Sr. Political Action Award Honoree

Wayne L. Richardson, a native of Newark, NJ, grew up in the lower enclave of Newark’s North Ward, and graduated from Barringer High School in 1976.

Wayne’s curiosity about politics began at a young age, when, as an adolescent, he unknowingly immersed himself in the conflicts of the times by impulsively joining a picket line of supporters for Kawaida Towers in Newark’s North Ward.

Wayne’s social consciousness continued, and as a young adult, he was elected to serve as district leader and ward co-chairperson.

As a young man, Wayne worked in various capacities in the construction field in New Jersey and later in middle management in production in Ohio, before returning to Newark in 2002. That same year, Wayne graduated from the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice’s Pre-apprenticeship Program.

In 2006, because of his outspoken advocacy for worker’s rights and his union organizing efforts at River Terminal, Wayne was recruited as a business agent for Laborers Local 108. He next went to work for the Laborers Eastern Region Organizing Fund (LEROF), where, as the lead organizer for Garden State Alliance for a New Economy (GANE), Wayne successfully organized GANE into the labor and community coalition that in 2009 successfully weatherized the homes of 30 Newark senior citizens at no cost to the homeowners.

Wayne’s next venture for LEROF was to participate in organizing a new residential construction local, Laborers Local 55, which focuses on job training and local hiring efforts.

Since Wayne’s first picket line many years ago, his social consciousness continued to develop, and he became an advocate for broader issues, from supporting efforts to end apartheid in South Africa, to recent demonstrations for justice for Trayvon Martin. He is unquestionably most passionate about the issues affecting the workers he represents.

In recent years, Wayne has shared his strong oratory skills by involving himself with enrichment programs that train local youth orators. He has enjoyed serving as a workshop leader for teens in the Stand & Deliver Program and as a local and national level judge for Newark’s high school speech and debate teams.

Wayne is a member of the Newark Branch NAACP and the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) African American Caucus. He earned certification from the Mid-West Academy for Social Organizing in Chicago, and he is presently working towards certification in labor history at Cornell University.

Wayne L. Richardson is the President of Laborer’s Local 55 and a Commissioner on the Newark Planning Board. Wayne and his wife, Antoinette, reside in Newark, New Jersey, and have a combined total of five adult children and nine grandchildren.

1914 NEWARK BRANCH NAACP 2013

Proudly Salutes Its Fully Paid Gold and Golden Heritage Life Members George L. Atkinson Cleo E. Blount Lovetta Brooks Patricia Burroughs Rev. Irving A. Childress E. Alma Flagg James L. Gibbs Walter E. Jackson Osibee Jelks Dolores V. Lawson Annie Mitchell Nathaline Page Eddie L. Porter Isabelle Sauls Daisy Stokes Bernice H. Wallace J. Barry Washington Mary R. White Dr. A. Zachery Yamba

Mary B. Atkinson Daniel Blue Jessie Bryant Delores C. Carter Rebecca Doggett Harold Flowers James Harrison Jr. Willa H. Jackson Ruben Johnson Rosetta McDaniels Willa L. Moye William D. Payne Vivian Sanks-King, Esq. Harry L. Slaten Susan A. Sykes Theodore V. Wells, Esq. Curtis J. Way Bernice Williams

Mitchell Black Rebecca L. Bowen Raymond Bryant George L. Cato Bennie Fields Elizabeth Gibbs William D. Highsmith The Honorable Sharpe James Thelma V. Kelly Clifford J. Minor Doris Nicholson Wilbur Parker Yvonne Eastwick Sealy Thelma Boyd Smith Philip S. Thomas Dr. Eleby R. Washington Constance B. White Dr. A. Zachery Yamba

ORGANIZATIONS NAACP Newark Unit Newark Teachers Union, Local 481 Beta Alpha Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Bronze Shields, Inc. Frontiers International, Newark Chapter Garden State Bar Association Kappa Alpha Psi-Newark Alumni Chapter Past Matrons Auxiliary-Queen of Sheba Grand Chapter, OES Local 699 Laborers Int’l Union of North America Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church North Jersey Unit National Association Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs New Hope Baptist Church North Jersey Duplicate Bridge Club North Jersey Epicureans, Inc. Women’s League of Bethany Baptist Church Zion Hill Baptist Church

­­— NEWARK BRANCH NAACP — LIFE MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM THE HONOR GUARD 2013 FULLY PAID REGULAR LIFE MEMBERS ($500) DESIREE’ BROWER MARY BLANCHE HOOPER

REVEREND CLIFFORD BROWER ANNIE ROSSIE TILLMAN

2013 FULLY PAID SILVER LIFE MEMBERS ($750)

SANDRA L. CHAPLIN LUCINDA KEITH

JOHN THOMAS GAITHER ERICA MCNEIL MAE J. STRONG

2013 FULLY PAID GOLD LIFE MEMBERS ($1,000) JAMES O. CRAWFORD

2013 FULLY PAID GOLD LIFE MEMBERS ($1,500) JOHN L. SMITH

2013 FULLY PAID DIAMOND LIFE MEMBERS ($2,500) LEOLA HILL

LUCILLE HUNTER

NJ BUILDING construction LABORERS DISTRICT COUNCIL

241 Forsgate Drive, Suite 109 Jamesburg, NJ 08831 732-605-9770 phone 732-605-9711 fax

Carl E. Styles – Business Manager Alfred Castagna – Vice President Edison Severino – Executive Board John Adams – Executive Board

Jose Colon – President Gary Ramsey – Secretary Treasurer Alfred Castagna – Executive Board Paul Roldan – Executive Board

Laborers Local 3 – Jose Colon, Business Manager Bergen, Passaic, Sussex, Morris, Warren, Somerset, Hunterdon, Hudson, Union & Essex Counties Laborers Local 77 – Carl E. Styles, Business Manager Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Burlington, Middlesex, Mercer, Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, Cape May & Cumberland Counties Laborers Local 78 – Edison Severino, Business Manager New Jersey, Long Island, NY & New York City Laborers Local 55 – Hector Fuentes, Business Manager New Jersey & Delaware

Congratulations to the

Newark NAACP Branch on your

99th Anniversary

"We Shall Not Be Moved!"

Ruben Johnson

Heartfelt Congratulations to the Newark Branch NAACP 99th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner and all the Highly deserving and role model Most worthy “Honorees.�

The Members of the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders

Offer Their Support and Congratulations to the Newark Branch of the NAACP & Its Honorees

99th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner On the Occasion of the

Friday, October 25, 2013

Blonnie R. Watson President D. Bilal Beasley Brendan W. Gill

Patricia Sebold Vice President Roland Bobadilla

Rufus I. Johnson

Carol Y. Clark

Leonard M. Luciano

Gerald W. Owens

Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. 10th District – New Jersey

Salutes The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

Newark Branch On its

99th Anniversary

Major John Sharpe James

Supports the Newark Branch NAACP on their 99th Freedom Fund Awards Dinner

Afghanistan War Veteran Purple Heart Award Recipient Post Commander - American Legion Post #162 Major (Retired) - New Jersey Army National Guard Member - Veterans of Foreign Wars President - Newark South District Police Council Graduate - Morehouse College - Dean's List Graduate - Rutgers School of Law

Congratulations to The Newark Branch of the NAACP on their 99th Anniversary

We commend you for nearly a century of commitment and dedication to developing positive change.

Congratulations To

The NAACP Newark Branch As You Celebrate Your Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner The Board of Deacons Richard W. Roper, Chairman

Gone But Never Forgotten Isabel V. Ashby Jessie Bryant Ann Burwell Anna M. Crumidy James E. Felton, Jr. Verner V. Henry Osibee J. Jelks Delice Jones Senator Frank R. Lautenberg

Best Wishes To The NAACP - Newark Branch Raymond Testa

13 Ridgeway Avenue West Orange, New Jersey 07052 973-731-7440 Fax – 973-731-4738 Cell – 973-715-0660

“You are entitled to have professional representation in the event of a loss. You deserve the same experienced and skilled professional to represent your interests when dealing with your insurance company.”

MISSION,

A CONCERN OR A CAUSE

“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great reward� Hebrews 10:35 [KJV]

For Reliable* Professional*Affordable Weekly or Bi-Weekly Lawn Maintenance Call YOUR LANDSCAPER 973-390-4678 Price per cut range from $20 to $35 Other gardening services are available

The Missionary Society Philemon Missionary Baptist Church 246 Shepard Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112

Rev. Edward A. Allen, Pastor Missionary Hazel Barnes, President Cheryl D. Bush, Executive Director Website:www.clintonhillcommunity.org 420 Hawthorne Ave. Newark, NJ 07112 P: 973-372-88877 F: 973-372-5685 Email: info@clintonhillcommunity.org

On behalf of the

Clinton Hill Community & Early Childhood Center, Inc. Family We like to congratulate you on your th 99 Newark NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner A Salute to your President Ms. Deborah Smith Gregory

Respectfully, Ms. Cheryl D. Bush, CHCC Staff, Our Parents and Mr. Harold Edwards, Chairman

Congratulations To All from the Executive Board and Membership of

Guyton-Callahan Post #152 212 Elizabeth Avenue, Newark, New Jersey

International Longshoremen’s Association LOCAL 1233 731 South 10 Street, Newark, New Jersey 07108 th

973/824/7322/23/24

EXECUTIVE BOARD WILLIAM “Bernard” DUDLEY President /ACD Vice President WADE FOSTER Vice President HERBERT HALL, SR. Business Agent / ILA Representative CLIFTON SMITH, JR. Secretary/Treasurer ROBIN SUGGS Recording Secretary ANTHONY BROWN Chaplain

TRUSTEES LINDA WILKINS OZZIE BURTON MICHAEL BARNES

JOHN SHARPE, JR. BETTY HOOKER DWIGHT SPEIGHT

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS D. TYREKE WELLS

The NJ Council of Chartered Members of the National Black Police Associations

Congratulates the

Newark NAACP and its Legacy

“The Struggle Continues"

New Jersey Council’s 4th Bi-Annual Appreciation Gala The Newark Club

1 Newark Center-22nd Fl., Newark, NJ Friday, Nov. 1, 2013 $100.00

Sally Thomason 732.469.2690 | Mzst101@aol.com Ron Arbuckle 973-923-2453 | Ronarbuckle@optonline.net

Honorees:

Mayor Jamel Holley, Roselle, NJ

Chief Sheliah A. Coley, Newark Police Department

Captain Amanda Koonce, Irvington Police Department Detective Brian Logan, Newark Police Department

Detective Dwight Bailey (retired), Roselle Police Department

Patrolman Darryl Taylor (retired), Newark Police Department

— Patrons/New Members — Armelia Adams Curran, LLP Rose Daniels Adrien R. Freeman Sandra Gilbert Barry Gray Photography Dolores Jackson Sydney J. Jackson Phillip Jennings Burnell Lowery David & Pansy King

Lauretta Pettis Harvey Phillips Shaka Taylor, Esq. Elmer D. Turpin Jr. Elmer D. Turpin III Martha E. Turpin Martha Washington Ollie Washington Renalda Winkey King D. Wright

Special Thanks to Chateau of Spain Restaurant for Gift Card Donations

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEWARK BRANCH NAACP ON THE CELEBRATION OF YOUR 99TH YEAR OF ADVOCACY I SUPPORT YOUR EFFORTS FOR ALL PEOPLE

Ronald L. Rice New Jersey State Senator 28th Legislative District

Congratulations To The NAACP - Newark Branch

On The Occasion Of Your 99 Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner th

Armando B. Fontoura Essex County Sheriff

Congratulations Al Tariq Best Job Well Done!

Sam Manigault, Esq. FP Youth Outreach Board Member

Let Us

Actively Impact Policy and Legislation So we can achieve political, educational, social, and economic equality.

Dr. Stephanie Aisha Steplight Johnson Member NAACP Newark Unit

This journal designed and printed by: MLDCommunications, Rev. J-Anthony & Madelin Dargan, 973-783-6198, mldcomm@aol.com