Hopewell
February 2021
Always Better Together Christine's Legacy
Cover photo by Benoit Cortet
A community magazine serving the residents of Hopewell Township, Pennington Borough and Hopewell Borough
Expert Contributors
Letter from the Publisher Dear Residents, Many of us associate February with Valentine’s Day and love.
Dermatology Windsor Dermatology Wendy Myers, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist 59 One Mile Road Ext., East Windsor, NJ 609-443-4500 windsordermatology.com I #freezefat
Lawn and Landscaping Cutting Edge Lawn and Landscaping, LLC Nick Pirone - Owner 1652 Reed Road, Pennington, NJ I 609-356-3465 nick@ce.land I ce.land.com
Financial Advisor Knox Grove Financial LLC. Christina A. Nash, CFP® – President & CEO 2 Tree Farm Rd., Suite B100, Pennington, NJ 609-216-7440 Christina@knoxgrove.com I knoxgrovefinancial.com
Publisher: Rachel Donington rdonington@bestversionmedia.com Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski cbialkowski@bestversionmedia.com Designer: Micalah Taylor
Medical Center RWJ University Hospital Hamilton 1 Hamilton Way, Hamilton, NJ 08690 609-586-7000 www.rwjbh.org/rwj-university-hospital-hamilton/
Contributing Photographer: Benoit Cortet www.benoitcortet.com Phone: 917-597-6297 benoit@benoitcortet.com
Orthodontics DeSimone Orthodontics Dr. Karen DeSimone, DDS 2 Tree Farm Road, Suite B-200, Pennington NJ 08534 609-737-8000 info@desimoneorthodontics.com www.desimoneorthodontics.com
Contributing Writers: Mary Galioto, Kenneth Marples, Lisa Wolff Advertising Contact: Rachel Donington Phone: 609-462-6786 rdonington@bestversionmedia.com
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Hopewell Valley Neighbors publisher: Rachel Donington: 609-462-6786 rdonington@bestversionmedia.com.
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are 25th of each month. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to rdonington@bestversionmedia.com.
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February 2021
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
Our cover story this month is certainly a story of love. Christine Gianacaci, the young woman who inspired the Christine’s Hope for Kids foundation, was filled with love and kindness. Though she was bullied as a child, Christine spread love and kindness to those around her. Many of us can learn from her legacy, the idea that we might treat those who mistreat with compassion. That was what Christine was all about, and she has touched countless lives because of that. This month’s feature is all about love, the love Christine’s parents Jean and John have for their daughter, the love Christine had for helping others in need—but it is also about acceptance. With the help of author Linda Martin, Christine’s Hope for Kids has now published a beautiful children’s book with an anti-bullying message, which you will read about in the story. When we think of love, we think of it as one thing—but love is really made up of many sentiments. When you express your love for people, you accept them as they are, you show them kindness, and you make sure they know how much they are appreciated. I hope you are inspired by the story of Christine, and you reflect on what love means to you. Publisher: Rachel Donington, 609-462-6786
February is Black History Month. This month, I encourage you to take the time to learn a bit more about African American history both in our immediate community and in America. Lisa Wolff shares an enlightening article with us about black history in our own community, and I challenge us all to keep digging, keep learning, so that we may come together to celebrate the achievements and recognize the hardships of African American people that have previously been deliberately left out by historians. Rachel mentions that love includes acceptance, which reminds me of a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”Content Coordinator: Catherine Bialkowski
Local businesses need you more than ever. PLEASE SHOP LOCAL. Our advertisers bring you this publication. Please tell them you saw their ad in Hopewell Valley Neighbors.
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Expert Contributor
• Credit for Other Dependents (ODC): You may be able to deduct $500 for each dependent you cannot claim under the family tax credit. This would include paying for the care of a parent. There are income limits on this once your AGI reaches $400,000 (filing jointly) or $200,000 (filing single).
The Effort is Worth the Savings
• Lifetime Learning Credit: While this largely covers tuition costs, it can also be used to cover the cost of classes taken to improve or learn new job skills. You do not need to be in a degree program to qualify for the LLC. • Student Loan Interest Deduction: This allows you to deduct up to $2500 from your taxable income of you paid interest on student loans in 2020.
By Christina A. Nash, CFP & Jodi Viaud, CFP ®
®
Unless you have already filed your taxes, which we dare say few of us have, it’s time to start gathering all the documentation you’ll need to simplify the process. Time consuming? Probably, but well worth the effort of keeping your tax bill and stress level low. There are some significant changes related to retirement accounts that you will want to be aware of when you file your tax return for 2020.
As well as the familiar tax deductions like retirement contributions, state, local, and property taxes, and mortgage interest paid, there are some deductions and credits that taxpayers often overlook. Please be sure to discuss all deductions and credits with your tax professional. • $300 Charitable Contribution: This is a new above-the-line deduction for 2020 (part of the CARES Act) that can be taken for cash donations, even if you do not itemize your deductions.
• SECURE Act: Enacted on 1/1/2020, this bill changed the age you must begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from 70-1/2 to 72 (if you turned 70-1/2 after 2019). In addition, as of last year, Traditional IRA account owners are now able to make contributions past age 70-1/2.
• Out-of-pocket Costs for Charitable Work: Do you prepare food for a soup kitchen, bake for charity events, or drive a car for a local charity? These and other out-of-pocket costs may be considered deductible charitable contributions. Save your receipts!
• CARES Act: Enacted on 3/27/2020, this bill allowed seniors to skip their RMDs in 2020 without being penalized. It also allows up to $100,000 of coronavirus-related payouts from a retirement account without the 10% penalty if you are under 59-1/2.
• Home Office Deduction: If you work from home on a regular basis you may be able to deduct expenses that are directly related to your work. Examples may include rent, repairs, renter’s insurance, or a security system.
• 401(k) and IRA Contributions: While the maximum contribution to a 401(k) for 2020 was $19,500, individuals 50 and over can contribute an extra $6500 to their 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plans. The annual contribution limit for IRAs was $6000 and those 50 and over can contribute an additional $1000.
• Educator Expenses: Teachers who qualify can deduct up to $250 for school supplies they have purchased or job-related professional development courses.
• ROTH IRAs: For 2020, the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) ceiling was raised from $137,000 to $139,000 for single filers and from $203,000 to $206,00 for joint filers.
• Residential Energy Credit: Did you make home improvements to improve energy efficiency? For example, if you installed a new furnace/heater, insulation, or replaced exterior windows, doors, or your roof, you may be eligible for a credit.
Honesty, Clarity, Trust
As CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™, we go the extra mile to ensure you are as comfortable with the process as you are with the outcome. YOUR PATH FORWARD From Investment Portfolio Management to Comprehensive Living Plans, we work hand in hand with you to develop a financial roadmap that will serve you throughout your lifetime. Jodi Viaud, CFP® Partner and Financial Adviser
To schedule an appointment to talk about your financial future, call our office at 609-216-7440 Knox Grove Financial, LLC | 2 Tree Farm Road, Suite B100 | Pennington, NJ 08534 P: 609-216-7440 | www.knoxgrovefinancial.com Info@knoxgrove.com
Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.
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Finally, if you received a stimulus check from the government this year, it is not considered taxable income therefore you will not owe tax on it. It is considered a refundable tax credit that could reduce your 2020 tax bill. Whether you’re preparing your own tax return, or working with a trusted CPA, take the time to do your homework – it may save you time and money down the road. We collaborate with many of our clients’ CPAs and tax professionals to ensure their financial plans are aligned with their unique tax situations. Call us today to get started on “Your Path Forward.”
Christina A. Nash, CFP & Jodi Viaud, CFP ®
®
Founding Partner & Financial Adviser
Partner & Financial Adviser
Knox Grove Financial, LLC 2 Tree Farm Road, Suite B100 Pennington, NJ 08534 KnoxGroveFinancial.com
vvv Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced
Campus shared with St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center
MOVE-IN SPECIAL 1st month 30% discount 2nd month 20% discount 3rd month 10% discount
Waived community fee for St. Mary & Grace Gardens - a $2,500 value. **excluding Morris Hall Meadows**
Visit our website today at Christina Nash, CFP® knoxgrovefinancial.com to learn more Founding Partner about how we can enhance your personal and Financial Adviser journey to financial independence.
YOUR PAT H FORWARD
• Child Care Credit: This credit is based on your income and childcare expenses. The maximum amount of childcare expenses allowed is $3,000 for one person and $6,000 for two or more people. The credit is a percentage (ranging from 20% to 35%) of the allowable expenses.
February 2021
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In The Arts
In Love with ArtSpires in Hopewell Valley
Message From The Mayor
By Carol Lipson | Hopewell Valley Arts Council Board of Trustees
By Julie Blake, Mayor Hopewell Township While we are already a month into the New Year, I would like to share the details of the goals and challenges before the Hopewell Township Committee this year. I envision that 2021 will be Hopewell Township’s year of recovery: recovery from the impact of COVID-19 on our community, health, and economy and recovery from the strain on both our financial and human resources. The Township will have to absorb the devaluation of the Bristol Myers Squibb property and the resultant loss of tax revenue for municipal services and our Hopewell Valley schools. As many of you are aware, the largest part of every tax bill in Hopewell Valley is the school budget. If the school budget remains the same or grows, costs will shift from BMS to residents and small businesses. The Township Committee cannot change those costs as the school board manages the school budget. Nonetheless, we will work together to decrease the financial pressures on our community. In the face of these challenges, the Committee will continue to work hard to mitigate the impact on our budget and economic recovery. Kevin Kuchinski, a member of the Hopewell Township Committee, and our professionals have tirelessly sought opportunities to save money through capital loan refinancing and reducing our debt costs. In 2020 we were able to restructure our debt, which will result in taxpayer savings of over $1.8 million over the next 10 years. We will continue to practice careful budgeting and review every discretionary dollar spent. Last year, a series of events within the Township police department and across the country challenged us to look harder at our police force to address concerns. We used that moment to reflect on current practices and to improve on community outreach and relationship building. We hired an outside consultant and a civilian police director to articulate what we currently do, what we value, and where we go from here. I am grateful for their work and the police department’s
openness to more communication and public input. We will work together to build a model of community policing. I am happy to announce that Hopewell Township has joined a network of Health Departments that are laying the groundwork to provide vaccines against Covid-19 to our health professionals, essential front line workers, at-risk individuals, and the general population. Our Health Officer, Dawn Marling, will be updating us on new developments at each Township meeting for the next several months. But even as we recover from the challenges of 2020, we face pressing new issues: as a township we need to discuss and decide what to do about the farming, manufacturing, transporting, and selling of a drug. And what regulations should we put in place to protect our environment from stormwater runoff? Additionally, the Planning Board will begin its independent review of the site plans for the development of Affordable Housing as well as review and update its Master Plan. During 2020, the Committee, the County, and other stakeholders established the groundwork for many wonderful projects for Hopewell Township in 2021 and beyond. Mercer County Parks has announced its plans for both the Moores Station Quarry and the soon-to-be open public golf course, pool, and platform tennis courts at the site of the Hopewell Valley Golf Course. We continue to develop plans for a community and senior center, as well as more trails, open space, and farm preservation. Recovery takes hard work, and it will not happen overnight. I am confident that we have the employees, professionals, volunteers, and Committee Members in place to move our township forward after an unprecedented year. Be well.
The Hopewell Valley Arts Council’s community art project and exhibition, ArtSpires, received overwhelming love from artists and community members. At the end of the auction, all 64 Spires were sold! Artists and bidders alike expressed their ardor for the project.
Before they go to their new homes, ArtSpires will remain throughout the community until spring 2021. Plan to visit them for some outdoor family fun! Check out our website for a full list and colorful map: www.hvartscouncil.org/artspires
“This was a silver lining during 2020, to be involved in this wonderful project,” said Denise Birminham. “Thank you for making me feel included and motivating me to do more art.” “Participating in the ArtSpires community project was a beautiful experience,” reflected Sheetu Batra. “The Arts Council did a terrific job with all of the efforts that went into making this project a success. For us personally, it was a great way to connect as a family and create something beautiful during these tough times.” The success of the auction, along with that of the 6th annual Amazing Pumpkin Carve, allows Hopewell Valley Arts Council to continue our mission in 2021. Thank you to this amazing community! While all the ArtSpires found homes, some received an impressive amount of love. “You Are Welcome Here” by Carolyn McGrath received the most bids -- 16! Carolyn is an artist and art educator in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District, where she has taught painting, drawing and pottery to middle and high school students for over 20 years. “Blue Bird Condo” by George Olexa went for the highest bid -- $1,100! Olexa shares in his artist statement, “The visual arts are important in all formats for their calming relaxing alternative to too busy times.”
“You Are Welcome Here” by Carolyn McGrath
“Blue Bird Condo” by George Olexa
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February 2021
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Resident Feature
Jean Gianacaci and Linda Martin
I
t had been a dream of Jean Gianacaci’s, co-founder of Christine’s Hope for Kids, to one day publish a book for children with a positive message about kindness and acceptance. “We give out thousands of books every year to children in our local communities,” says Jean. “I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be better to give them a book of our own that addresses an issue like bullying that so many kids are dealing with today, rather than trying to find books that fit our narrative?’” The issue of bullying has always been important to Jean and her husband and co-founder John; the couple witnessed firsthand the effect it had on their daughter, Christine, who was bullied from a young age due to Tourette’s syndrome and dyslexia. Everyone who knew Christine Gianacaci was struck by her kindness. She was driven by a desire to help people from an early age, and was always the first in the room to extend a hand to the person sitting alone. That was who Christine was.
so much a part of who her daughter was. Jean was determined to find someone to write the book she had wanted written for so long, and she knew exactly who to ask: Linda Martin, a close friend and member of the Christine’s Hope for Kids board. Jean first met Linda Martin at Linda’s store, Flutter Boutique, in Pennington. Although Flutter has since closed its doors, the connections Linda made through her beloved store are deep-rooted. As owner of Flutter and dedicated supporter of local business, Linda wanted a charity to which she could dedicate her time. She had heard of Christine’s Hope for Kids but had forgotten the name. One day, right before Flutter’s grand opening, she opened the newspaper only to see a photo of John and Jean receiving a check for the foundation. Serendipitously, Jean also came into the store that day, and a beautiful friendship was born. “There are no real coincidences in life,” says Linda. “This was just meant to be.”
Christine tragically lost her life in 2010 when an earthquake struck Haiti, where she was on a mission trip helping underprivileged children as a student at Lynn University. She was doing what she loved: helping others. Christine became the inspiration for her parents’ foundation, Christine’s Hope for Kids, whose mission is to help less fortunate children and to support local community agencies to work with and benefit children in need. Since the organization first started, the Gianacacis and their team have raised and donated more than one million dollars. “Whether we are supporting children to attend camp, holding book fairs, or packing pajama bags for children in shelters, we believe that it is the little things that can and do make the greatest impact in a child’s life,” their mission reads.
As they got to know each other and Linda became more involved with Christine’s Hope for Kids, Jean learned of her friend’s talent and passion for writing and became familiar with what Linda was doing to support and celebrate women through Flutter, such as the Women Who Inspire campaign. Each year while running Flutter, Linda selected local women who were making a difference in the community and in the lives of others and who deserved to be recognized. Jean was an obvious choice for this recognition. After reading Linda’s writing about herself, Jean was touched—and she realized that Linda was the perfect person to write the book she had been dreaming about. Shortly before Linda decided to close Flutter, Jean shared her idea for a book that could have a positive impact on children’s lives. It was that day, over lunch, that the seeds of the story were planted.
For years, Jean had wanted to put out a children’s book through the organization. In her eyes, a book about bullying would be a way to honor their daughter and help children, especially those who are treated unfairly because of their differences. Jean pictured a story with a message about valuing and accepting what makes people different and the power of kindness. After all, kindness was
As soon as Flutter closed, Linda began to work on the book. Although Linda never had the pleasure of meeting Christine, she felt she knew her through Jean. “I was inspired by hearing how kind she was,” says Linda. She says it was easy to write the book with Christine in mind; it almost wrote itself. “At the very core of it, it’s a book about kindness. That is the most powerful anti-bullying
LIFE IS HOPEFUL
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Always Better Together
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Christine’s Legacy By Catherine Bialkowski I Photos by Benoit Cortet
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February 2021
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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Always Better Together book signing at Pennington Quality Market
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tool.” Christine, says Linda, was the epitome of the anti-bullying sentiment. Subjected to bullying herself, she fought back simply by being kind. Always Better Together, follows the story of Ella and Sara, two young girls who navigate friendship, acceptance, and staying true to one’s self. Ella, who wants to be accepted by her friends, abandons Sara, who has a stutter. “Ella’s mother helps her to see that we are all different in some way, and that’s what makes each of us uniquely who we are,” says Linda. “Ella asks Sara to forgive her, and she does, then uses the lesson she learned to help her friends see that our differences are what makes us special. The story teaches a lesson about kindness and the power of forgiveness.”
children in need. Through private and corporate donations and fundraising activities, the foundation has donated over $1,000,000 in donations to 130 local agencies, providing tens of thousands of children with summer camps, warm pajamas, back-to-school supplies, and more, all with the goal of letting kids be kids. You can support the work of Christine’s Hope for Kids, and order the book by visiting christineshope.org. The book can also be purchased at the following local businesses in Pennington: Artistic Designs, Emily’s Cafe & Catering, Orion Jewelry Studio, Pennington Quality Market, Rosedale Mills, The Front Porch, and Twirl Toy Store. It is also available in Lawrenceville at Enzo’s La Piccola Covina and in Robbinsville at Salon Xtraordinaire.
The mission of Christine’s Hope for Kids is to help underserved kids in our community and support those agencies that work to benefit
12/17/20 10:18 AM
Always Better Together A Story of Acceptance, Friendship and Love
Christine’s Hope for Kids takes on bullying with a children’s book that teaches important lessons about accepting our differences, the true meaning of friendship, the power of forgiveness and the most important lesson of all, that treating others with kindness and love is the true path to happiness. Alw lway a y s Bet ette r To This book was written in honor of Christine Gianacaci, who loved helping Togge g et eth t he h err kids, especially those who were being treated unfairly because of their differences. Author Linda Martin, has written a story that addresses bullying through important lessons and the power of kindness. Illustrator, Anita Barghigiani, has brought the book to life with her beautiful images.
Jean and Linda found a talented illustrator in Italy, Anita Barghigiani, who brought Linda’s characters to life. Then, Kim Waters from Zoe Graphics in Pennington helped put the book together. In November of 2020, after working on the book for over a year, Jean and Linda were overjoyed to see it published. As Linda says, “When you put four strong women together you get the job done.” It is a comfort to Christine’s family to know that her selfless and giving spirit is very much alive today through the work they do with Christine’s Hope for Kids, which changes the lives of thousands of children per year. Always Better Together represents another step forward in the journey Jean and John are taking as they continue to change lives in the name of their daughter, Christine.
22676140 HAMILTON Leapfrog Fall 2020_Mercer Neighbors_7.5x5_m1.indd 1
Always Better Together can be purchased at christineshope.org or in Pennington at Artistic Designs, Emily’s Cafe, Orion Jewelry Studio, Pennington Quality Market, Rosedale Mills, The Front Porch and Twirl Toy Shop. In Lawrenceville at Enzo's La Piccola Cucina and in Robbinsville at Salon Xtraordinare.
THURSDAY 5pm - 8pm FRIDAY 5pm - 8pm SATURDAY 12pm - 8pm SUNDAY 12pm - 6pm
CURATED COCKTAILS
OUTDOOR SEATING
A Story of Accep tance, Friendship
Story SSto t ry byy LLind ind a Mar Ma rtrtin t in
and Love
Illustst ration Illu rara tionss byy Anita An it a Barg Ba rg B rg higia h ig ia ni
Jean Gianacaci, Christine’s Hope for Kids and Linda Martin, Author
Hopewell, New Jersey
Order your book at christineshope.org • All proceeds from the sale of this book will go to kids in need in our local community Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact 10 February 2021 Rachel Donington at rdonington@bestversionmedia.com.
Hopewell Valley Neighbors
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WHAT IS YOUR
WORKING GENIUS?
By Patrick Lencioni, founder and president, The Table Group
When it comes to work, we all have gifts. Natural, God-given talents that give us energy and allow us to contribute to the success of organizations and teams. We are meant to use those gifts, and it is frustrating, sometimes tragic, when we can’t. Of course, if we don’t know what our gifts are, we can’t be sure that we are using them. Now, in addition to our gifts, we all have limitations—natural areas of deficiency that drain us of our energy and frustrate our ability to contribute to work. Though we can’t always avoid those areas, we are meant to minimize the time we have to spend on those tasks, though again, if we don’t know what those deficiencies are, we can’t minimize them. The Six Types of Working Genius is a model and an assessment tool that allows anyone—CEOs, schoolteachers, factory supervisors, college students—to identify their gifts and limitations so they can maximize their satisfaction and success in any kind of work they do. In thirty minutes, someone can radically alter their day-to-day job fulfillment or even their career direction. What a difference that can make in a person’s life. As it turns out, those six types of genius—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement and Tenacity—make up
the six required activities for any work endeavor. Whether you’re engaged in running a company, a department, a project, or even a family, all six are necessary ingredients for success. No one person can possibly embody them all, which is why teamwork is so important. Among those six types, everyone has two that we call areas of genius, where we get our joy and energy and have natural ability. We have two that we call areas of frustration, where we get drained of joy and energy and have little natural ability. Then there are two in the middle, areas where we might have some ability, but that are not a source of energy and satisfaction. Imagine if every company, every organization, every team knew the areas of genius, competency and frustration of their people and organized them for success. Imagine if every parent knew those areas of genius for their spouse and children. It’s not an exaggeration to say that there would be more joy and less misery in society. But that has to happen one person at a time and that person might as well be you. What are your areas of genius?
The Genius of Wonder (W) The natural gift of pondering the possibility of greater potential and opportunity in a given situation. The Genius of Invention (I) The natural gift of creating original and novel ideas and solutions.
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The Genius of Discernment (D) The natural gift of intuitively and instinctively evaluating ideas and situations. The Genius of Galvanizing (G) The natural gift of rallying, inspiring and organizing others to take action. The Genius of Enablement (E) The natural gift of providing encouragement and assistance for an idea or project. The Genius of Tenacity (T) The natural gift of pushing projects or tasks to completion to achieve results. Patrick Lencioni was named in Fortune magazine as one of the “ten new gurus you should know.” His passion for organizations and teams is reflected in his writing, speaking and executive consulting. He is the author of eleven best-selling books.
February 2021
The Black Family
Celebrating Black History Month 2021 By Catherine Bialkowski While Carter G. Woodson, an American journalist, author, and historian, was earning his Master’s degree from the University of Chicago and his PhD from Harvard, he was struck by the lack of black representation in the historical texts he was reading. Knowing the whitewashed narrative was not accurate, Woodson worked towards founding what is now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) alongside Jesse E. Moorland in 1915. In 1926, the ASALH sponsored what has become known today as Black History Month, choosing February as it encompasses Frederick Douglass’ birthday on the 14th and Abraham Lincoln’s on the 12th. Originally only a week long, the event inspired communities to recognize and celebrate the achievements of African American people throughout history. In 1970, students at Kent State University celebrated the first Black History Month. In 1976, the event became monthlong throughout the nation when President Gerald Ford recognized it and urged American citizens to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
diversity have been reverenced, stereotyped, and vilified from the days of slavery to our own time.” This February, please take the time to become educated about African American history, whether that be local, nationwide, or worldwide. In our modern age, we have access to so much information via the internet, television, schools, even our acquaintances. It is time to make sure we identify what was erased from the history books, celebrate African American history in full, and work towards a more inclusive future.
In the United Kingdom, Black History month has been celebrated since 1987 under the guidance of Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, Ghanaian journalist, analyst, and activist. In Canada, educational administrator, politician, and advocate for social justice Jean Augustine was the driving force behind the official recognition of Black History Month by the House of Commons in 1995 and the Senate in 2008. In the Republic of Ireland, Black History Month was first recognized in County Cork in 2010. County Cork was a leading center of abolition during the 19th century. Since its beginnings, Black History Month has been a time to acknowledge, remember, and celebrate African American history, recognize its systematic erasure for many years, and work towards uncovering it and celebrating it. In 2018, Instagram launched a Black History Month program with Shavone Charles, featuring a #BlackGirlMagic partnership with Spotify and the #CelebrateBlackCreatives campaign. The program reached more than 19 million followers. The theme for Black History Month 2021 is The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity, as set by the ASALH. According to ASALH.org, “The black family has been a topic of study in many disciplines—history, literature, the visual arts and film studies, sociology, anthropology, and social policy. Its representation, identity, and
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In the fifty years prior, since 1926, this week began as a way of remembering important people and events in the history of the African diaspora and was dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by black Americans and other peoples of African descent. The second week of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
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Yet, even with a formal designation, many Americans remain uninformed of both African history and the stressors present for black Americans even to this day. While I cannot address a topic of that magnitude in this short column, we can touch on the significance of Black History Month in Hopewell Valley. Renata Barnes, Outdoor Equity Alliance coordinator, provided this input:
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“Having grown up in Hopewell Valley, I was unaware of the African-American history that resided here. A silent, silken thread of many strands, woven into the tapestry of area history but somehow missed by many, and perhaps dismissed by many more. This very strand has recently caught the light and that light has illuminated more than just the past but our present and hopefully, our future.
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In my current position as Outdoor Equity Alliance Coordinator, I have been able to look at the richness of the Hopewell Valley area anew. Considering all the historical pieces that have contributed to said richness, I began to wonder about the part people of African descent have played in Hopewell and nationally.
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The Valley is not alone in the historical oversights that blot out the contribution of people of African descent. The consequence of viewing African-American history from a White European perspective is the tendency to relegate an entire group of people and their experiences to bit players or uncredited extras with inconsequential storylines. In
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President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Since then, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month.
February 2021
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truth, our own Sourland Mountains are soaked in the tears, sweat, and hopes of first-generation slaves as their descendants drive the roads that began as trails beaten back by their ancestors. The voices of those long dead residents lying beneath weathered and almost forgotten gravemarkers have been heard in recent years. The Stoutsburg Sourland African-American Museum, housed in the historic Mt. Zion AME Church in Skillman stands as a testament to local residents whose stories and contributions do not sit in the memory of anyone living today. These stories continue to point out the inequities that lie in our past, bleeding into our present. We tell African-American history both locally and nationally, to shine a light on omitted truths in hopes of healing the lingering deep wounds of our collective past. Part of the OEA mission is to address some of these inequities, specifically in the area of access to open spaces and opportunities in the environmental sector. Hopewell Valley is addressing its forgotten past, giving it a platform, and allowing it to inform our present. Students in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District learn a more complete history of the African American experience in Hopewell Valley from local historians Elaine Buck and Beverly Mills. Their book, “If These Stones Could Talk”, which beautifully lays out the contribution of people of African descent in Hopewell Valley, was birthed from these presentations both in our area and statewide. This past summer, Governor Murphy officially recognized Juneteenth as a statewide holiday. Celebrated throughout the African-American community for over a century, it commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Africans in Galveston Texas, who received the news of their freedom two and a half years after the national emancipation proclamation was issued. The OEA is planning a Juneteenth celebration at a local park or preserve to commemorate the contributions of Black New Jerseyans. Currently, African-American history is treated separately and segregated from mainstream dialogues. By drawing attention to this holiday, we hope to weave African-American history and experience into an understanding that every American, and Hopewellian, should proudly embrace as simply American history."
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