Spring 2023

Chancellor David C. Banks

East Orange “Reviving the Village”

With an aim toward revitalizing and strengthening their community, Mayor Ted Green, the East Orange City Council, and the Mayor’s Office of Employment and Training, hosted “Reviving the Village.” The event at Cicely L. Tyson Community School of Performing and Fine Arts, featured special guest speaker Dr. Chris T. Pernell. The East Orange native, public health expert, and change agent addressed key issues such as health equity and justice in reviving a village.

“Equity is a process and justice is an outcome,” Pernell said. “The highest level or state of health is to be born, to live, to age, to work and to pray without barriers or inequality.”

According to Mayor Green, the event provided resources and solutions to issues that affect the

residents of East Orange. “I gave an assignment to members of my team to put together an event with local organizations that could help provide services to parents and kids in our community,” he explained.

Breakout sessions moderated by experts addressed many of those issues; especially popular were two innovative sessions: Man Cave addressing specific topics from a male perspective and facilitated by men, and She Shed, discussion of topics from a female perspective facilitated by women.

“The wellness of our community is a responsibility that we all must take part in,” said Mayor Green. “We would be remiss if we didn’t put boots to the ground and tap into programs and resources to ensure that the quality of life in East Orange is as equitable as humanly possible. It truly takes the village.”

The Berkeley Blend can wake up your future

Student volunteers for the "Reviving the Village" event stop for a quick lunch break

Mayor Ted R. Green welcomes Dr. Chris T. Pernell

Barber School

The prophet Hosea wrote, “they destroyed my people for a lack of knowledge.” (4:6) Remember hearing, “wake up and go to school?” I certainly recall those, education essential, early morning wakeup calls. Recently I got a wakeup call while sitting in a barber’s chair at Upper Kutz, Jesse Lockett’s barbershop in New Jersey. Jesse told me, “Families aren’t coming in for pre-Easter cuts like they used to.” Young people with pre-Easter cuts and hairdos atop suits and dresses symbolized the pride and cultural values of our community. Barber shops and hair salons were key places for transmission of knowledge with our communities. Back then the dangerous minds of the day got their hair cut then armed themselves with knowledge rather than guns. Such were the dangerous minds that provoked revolutions of positive change. Pictures can be found of both Malcom X and Martin Luther King Jr. at barber shops. Barber shops and hair salons historically produced good cuts and dangerous minds.

If the people are no longer bringing their children to barber shops and hair salons, where are they going? My thoughts then drifted to a recent pre-Easter shooting as people gathered at a marijuana dispensary in Harlem. Is that where pre-Easter time is now being spent? Marijuana dispensaries are opening in our communities, as barber shops and hair salons are shutting down. How ironic. How tragic. What kind of dangerous minds can be produced in marijuana dispensaries? “Remaining Awake Through A Great Revolution” was a speech given by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. four days before his assassination. We must again heed his call to “wake up and go to school.” “Education is the key to unlock the golden door to freedom,” said inventor George Washington Carver. Wake up and connect the dots, threats to education are threats to freedom.

Wake up young people and go to school because education must begin early in life. Dr. Thelma Adair, the 102-year-old pioneer of Head Start in Harlem, says “the mind, like a building, must have a good foundation.” What we do early impacts what happens later. Wake up old people and go to school, before it’s too late to reverse the continuing anti-literacy efforts aimed at restrict-

ing education. Anti-literacy assaults, such as the 1739 “Negro Act” of the province of South Carolina, and others, which forbad education of Black people, or the recent restrictions upon teaching, which forbid factual instruction on African American history, were and are an assault upon our basic freedom as human beings. Restrictions on education curtail certain inalienable rights, such as “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” declared by the ‘dangerous minds’ of that time, and fomented a revolution for positive change at the dawn of this nation’s independence.

Rev. Dr. Cornell Edmonds Esq. is Interim Pastor of The Church of the Covenant, E. 42nd St NYC (around the corner from United Nations).

The Cultural Narrative is introduced to Rev. Dr. Herbert Nelson, Stated Clerk of Presbyterian Church USA, the largest Presbyterian denomination in the world. On March 5, 2023, Pastor Cornell Edmonds welcomed the national leader to Church of the Covenant.

The African American Cultural Narrative

African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years). On January 1, 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law, signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born.

One hundred years later in August 1963, at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial, as he led hundreds of thousands to a March on Washington, seeking an end to discrimination and 90 years of Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full and equal citizen’s rights for the people in what has been called “the Second Emancipation.”

Forty years after Martin Luther King Jr.’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elected its first black president, the Honorable Barack Obama (2008).

In the 100 years between the first and second emancipation, in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching, and enduring the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, education, medicine, invention, sports, and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature, and theater. Indeed, original American art forms and a popular culture which has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! And that is our story—the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race—revealed!

An Extraordinary History

Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation, and triumph that we must never, ever forget! This is the very story we must tell our children and ever be remembered for all future generations. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation must tell our story and sing our greatest songs to each other and to the entire world! We must remind ourselves over and over again of the noble struggle, human dignity, sacrifices and wisdom of our torch-bearing forefathers; of our goodly heritage, our divine inheritance; our great music legacy—Positive Music Matters!

This is our story—the cultural narrative—a new language of freedom; a springboard toward a great and prosperous future; a spiritually enlightened ideal. A vision of hope, opportunity, and progress; liberty and happiness; health and wholeness—peace and goodwill!

WE’VE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH…!

—Adrian A. Council, Sr.

“Our South Mountain Recreation Complex, Turtle Back Zoo and other attractions have become popular destinations for families to learn about nature, conservation and experience the outdoors. We look forward to seeing you soon and hope you enjoy a wild adventure right here in Essex

The One Thing That WON’T Change

Ilove candy, and while there’s a smorgasbord of new candies marketed to the tastes of millions of today’s kid generations (Airheads, Sour Punch Straws, Sour Patch Kids, Colombina Bon Bon Bum lollipops). I’m still a dyedin-the-wool Now and Later girl (I know I’m dating myself). I still remember the actual Now and Later candy jingle, “Eat some now, save some for later…” I also remember you could get an impressive pack of nine pieces for just ten cents. Back then, Now and Laters came in a few tantalizing flavors discontinued today, like vanilla, caramel rum, bubble gum, and chocolate. Nowadays, the inflation-shrunken Now and Later pack is just six pieces for a quarter—a real sign of our high-cost-of-living times.

And it’s not just dime-priced candy that’s signaled a more affordable era gone by, it’s the “gemeinschaft” concept (the German word for “community” I learned from my first college sociology professor), that eased out with it. It was the simpler times, the good will, and the neighborly sentiment along with those Now and Laters and homemade Kool-Aid cup ices we bought in summer from the old Spanish lady who sold them to everybody’s kids from her apartment for a quarter—a metaphor for modern times that felt merrier and a lot more manageable.

Back then, kids knew which bodegas and which neighbors sold what for what, and parents knew it, too. Free goodies were better. When summer rolled around, there’d be long lines of neighborhood kids—economically disadvantaged or not—peacefully waiting their turn to get the free sandwich, peach, and 8-ounce juice and milk containers that came in clear-wrapped, packaged trays distributed by the city. Hitmaker music would blare from folks’ windows from salsa and merengue and gospel, to A Taste of Honey’s “Boogie Oogie Oogie,” Earth, Wind, & Fire’s “Boogie Wonderland,” and the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive.” Speaking of stayin’ alive, it wasn’t good back then to cut up in the neighborhood when your parents weren’t looking. Folks like Ol’ Miss Pearl were looking and gave you an earful, then told your kinfolk. On top of Miss Pearl’s street reprimand, you got another talkin’ to at home and a wellplaced whack or spanking. It’s a whole lot different today. Let a senior Miss Pearl tattle to a new age mom today… I can hear it now.

“YOU MIND YOUR BUSINESS, MISS PEARL! WE DON’T MIND YOURS! THEM MY KIDS!” Sorry, Miss Pearl. Back then, bad kid behavior brought out the belt; today, some parents prefer all lecture and no leather. It’s called DYFS (Division of Youth and Family Services); and children purportedly make their own calls. Regarding calls, we got cellphones to make them, and cyberspace, Siri, and Alexa lighting corridor halls, turning on washing machines, and closing our garage doors behind us, too!

But no matter what epoch: back then, now, or later, with its ensuing hallmarks, changes, and high-tech trends, there will ALWAYS be one, true constant that remains the same: we call him JESUS. It’s a comfort to know that in a world of dizzying change, large-scale inhospitableness, and terrifying community and climate-change, there’s STILL that ONE, mighty constant that will never, ever change, that’s Jesus. The Bible affirms that Jesus “is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) It’s a blessing to be blanketed by His providential care. I’ve found Him to be a refuge amidst the turbulent tides of these trying times. He’s the one true constant in a world of constant change.

Sonja D. Gracy, author, playwright, and NYC public school teacher is currently working on her next book,God and the Girls.

The Grid Collective Achieving an Equitable Clean Energy Future

On March 30, 2023, The Greater Allen A.M.E. Church in Jamaica, Queens hosted the gas and electric company National Grid for their launch of The Grid Collective, part of National Grid’s Project C community commitment to address climate change. In an effort to grow green businesses and job opportunities, the groundbreaking initiative provides weatherization and energy efficiency training to individual workers and vendors. The Grid Collective embodies Project C’s four key areas: clean energy and sustainability; workforce development, neighborhood investment, and community engagement; environmental justice; and social equity.

National Grid employees discussed the benefits and process it would take to participate in the program and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to take advantage of the fast-developing labor market for such capabilities. The company is committed to providing equal access to clean energy job opportunities leading to well-paying careers.

According to National Grid President Rudy Wynter, the goal for the company is reduced reliance on energy from oil and natural gas and increased energy efficiency. In a recent article in The Positive Community , Wynter spoke about National Grid’s Clean Energy Vision for the Future. “When I reflect on National Grid’s historic fossil free plan, Project C, and the hundreds of other projects our employees commit to like The Grid Collective, I know we are on the right path”

Anyone interested in applying for the program is encouraged to email box.thegridcollective@ nationalgrid.com

L-R: Johnson & Associates Solutions, LLC Program Advisor Bill Johnson, Community & Customer Management VP Melanie Littlejohn, and External Affairs & Community Engagement Director Carla Hunter Ramsey

National Grid Procurement Supplier Diversity & Sustainability Director Saken Khokhar

Energy Efficiency Project Management Senior Program Manager Jose Bermudez

BPI Certification Customer Energy Management Associate Analyst Austin Izzo

What Rising Interest Rates Mean for Your Wallet

Interest rates have a bigger impact on your wallet than you may realize. With rates forecasted to continue rising in 2023, you can expect to pay more on things like credit card debt, mortgages, car loans, and other everyday purchases. That’s why it’s important to take steps now to save and pay down debt so you don’t end up paying more for borrowing in the long run.

Although interest rates are projected to rise to as high as 5.1% this year, according to the U.S. Federal Reserve, there’s a bit of good news for consumers. Higher rates by the Federal Reserve mean consumers will see a higher return on their savings, and ultimately, more money back in their pocket.

What is the role of the Federal Reserve?

There’s a bank that you use to save and manage your money – and then there’s the bank.The Federal Reserve, or “The Fed,” is the central banking system of the U.S., providing a safe and stable financial system by overseeing the nation’s banks and influencing interest rates. While it doesn’t interact directly with consumers, the policies it sets ultimately affect the way you make financial decisions for things like savings, consumer credit and home loans.

The intent of raising interest rates is to lower inflation and moderate economic activity by reducing the supply of money in circulation. Higher rates mean more expensive loans for consumers and businesses, not to mention a higher cost of credit. Here’s how rising interest rates could have an impact on your wallet:

• Opportunities to Save: Higher interest rates might not be good news for consumers looking to borrow funds, however they can present savings opportunities if you have a deposit account. Rate increases impact deposit annual percentage yields (APYs), the percentage of interest earned on a deposit account or investment, which are determined by the current interest rate. As rates

increase, banks increase the amount of what you earn, presenting an opportunity to earn more on checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and other deposit accounts.

• Paying off Debt: The prime rate, which determines most credit card variable annual percentage rates (APRs), is impacted by federal rates, so you can expect your consumer credit to be impacted by rising interest rates – whether that’s your personal loans, lines of credit or credit cards. By keeping up with paying off your credit card balance on time monthly, an APR increase won’t have a major impact for you.

• Buying a Home: Since 90% of new mortgages have fixed rates, the actual cost of borrowing for many households has not changed, even as interest rates have risen. However, for new homebuyers, higher interest rates could mean a higher mortgage rate, or if you have an adjustable rate mortgage loan, your monthly payment could increase.

The Fed has been raising interest rates for an extended period of time and is expected to continue doing so. As a result, you may feel pressure to act now to lock in lower rates and make a big financial decision. Making choices under pressure is when you’re most likely to think (too) fast.

Now is a good time to review your savings, investment and budget plans, and identify your financial goals for 2023. Then, connect with a dedicated advisor to work oneon-one with someone who’s committed to understanding your needs and helping you achieve those financial goals. Visit chase.com/advisor for more information.

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What is the role of the Federal Reserve?

How do rising interest rates affect your wallet?

How do rising rates affect your financial plan?

Financial Education for Young People

By: Wanda Pendelton

Financial Representative, Certified Financial Services

As a parent, how can you help your children be more financially competent? Show them by modeling how you save and manage your finances. Children grow up today in a complicated world and will eventually need to take control of their own finances. Parents may sometimes find it difficult to talk about money with their children, but having conversations about money is a first step to teaching your children to be confident about finances. Research shows that there is a link between a child’s self-control with money and their future financial health. When children develop a compulsion to spend it can lead to problems with money and debt as adults. Dr. David Whitebread and Dr. Sue Bingham, University of Cambridge, in their publication Habit Formations and Learning in Young Children (2013) said that money habits are formed in children by the time they are 7 years old.

The recommendation from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OCED) is that financial education should start as early as possible and be taught in schools. Including financial education as part of the school curriculum from an early age allows children to get skills to build responsible financial behavior. Children want discipline and boundaries, and financial discipline is important.

Budgets can help teach children that they can have fun, but there are limits and fun comes after

their responsibilities have been met. One of the most important lessons to discuss with your teenager about budgeting is the difference between their wants and needs. According to OCED, national surveys have shown that young adults have the lowest levels of financial literacy. This can reflect in their inability to choose the right financial products and disinterest in accepting sound financial planning. (Source: Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development 2014)

Parents can aid their child’s learning of how to save. Start with small steps toward savings. Open a bank account for their own goals but be firm about the importance of saving. Explore opportunities to practice financial literacy in fun ways. Show your kids how to become better and more responsible savers with their earned money by modeling that behavior in your own financial life. When young people learn to delay gratification by saving for a longer-term purchase, their behavior leads to financial confidence later in life. A tough lesson for everyone, especially for young people is making them wait to buy what they want. Opening a teen checking account or giving teens a prepaid debit card can give them a chance to practice prioritizing wants and needs as they spend their own money. Financial literacy is not about the amount of money you may have it is about building good money habits now and planning for the future financially with confidence.

Kimberly Council: Deputy Brooklyn Borough President

finding ways to better lives and strengthen opportunities for all. Being appointed deputy borough president gives me the opportunity to carry this work out at a larger, borough-wide level alongside a colleague I’ve long respected. Agreeing with Borough President Reynoso’s approach, policy priorities, and general strategy to reach the strongest, most sustainable future for all Brooklynites, I look forward to building that vision for the millions of people who call this beautiful borough home.”

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso recently announced the appointment of Rev. Kimberly Council to the position of deputy borough president of Brooklyn.

In her new position, Rev. Council will act as “an external surrogate for the borough president, while also leading faith-based work and other special projects for the administration,” Reynoso said. “Rev. Council’s history of specialized community service and faith-based work in Brooklyn will bring the work our administration has been dedicated to for the past year to the next level.”

Rev. Council remarked, “I’ve dedicated my career to the communities and people of Brooklyn, focusing on

Council formerly held the position of assistant pastor at Greater Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, where she worked under senior pastor Rev. Dr. Randy L. Ware. Since 1998, she has held the position of senior reference librarian at Sullivan & Cromwell, LLC.

In 2019, she served on the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) International Task Force, an organization charged with raising $10 million to bring funding and resources to HBCUs including Brooklyn’s own Medgar Evers College.

Rev. Council graduated from an HBCU, North Carolina Central University, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature and from Pratt Institute with a Master of Science in Library Science.

TPC Staff

Nicole A. Davis: Executive Director Center for Food Action

Center for Food Action (CFA) announced the appointment of Nicole DeSane Davis as executive director, effective March 1. An innovative, visionary, and transformational leader well-equipped in strategic planning and cutting-edge brand marketing approaches, Davis aims to deliver organizational growth and sustainability for New Jersey residents facing food insecurity and homelessness. She is a courageous, integrity-filled thought leader.

In 2018, Davis joined CFA, Bergen County’s largest food pantry, and in 2022 she was promoted to director of events. She led her colleagues in creating signature experiences such as MLK Day of Service and CFA’s Run/Walk event, raising significant funds and promoting food insecurity awareness. Davis says, “addressing the systemic and systematic disenfranchisement of New Jersey residents who lack

economic resources to secure nutritious foods is vital to our collective creation of healthier communities.”

Davis and her husband, Ryan, reside in northern New Jersey. They attend Community Baptist Church of Englewood, NJ, where she served as co-chair for the Board of Trustees leading a team in completing the 42,000-square-foot worship center. She serves on the Deaconess ministry and is a minister in training.

A proud member of the Iota Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the Howard University alum holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in organizational leadership. She recently earned a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Social Justice from Drew Theological Seminary. The Englewood, NJ native and daughter of a school educator and public health nurse understands being a lifelong learner is essential to a life of service. “We are never too old to learn, and we must all be teachable.” We can all take a lesson from Davis in what it means to serve.

By Jean Nash Wells

Health ideas for wellness

It Happens Every Spring

Allergies: What, Why, and How to Manage them

such as sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and watery eyes, making life miserable.

high pollen days, wear a face mask or pollen filter mask to reduce pollen exposure. You can also wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen. Keep Windows Closed: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering your home. Use an air conditioner with a HEPA filter to clean the indoor air.

Causes of Pollen Allergies:

Pollen allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to pollen. The immune system mistakes pollen for a harmful substance and releases chemicals such as histamine to fight it off. Histamine causes inflammation in the nasal passages, eyes, and throat, leading to the symptoms of pollen allergies.

As men age, the cells in the prostate gland can become cancerous. Every year in the United States, more than 30,000 men die from prostate cancer, second only to skin cancer. About one in eight men in America will develop the condition at some point in their lives, and about one in 40 will die from it. Age is the greatest risk factor for prostate cancer. While only one in 10,000 men under age 40 will be diagnosed, that number leaps to one in 14 for those ages 60 to 69. About 60 percent of all prostate cancers are diagnosed in men over the age of 65, and 97 percent occur in men 50 years of age and older.

But there is good news; with early detection, prostate cancer can be treated successfully and thanks to billionaire businessman and philanthropist Robert F. Smith, the lives of more Black men in New York City can be saved.

The Mount Sinai Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit, a state-of-the-art mobile facility equipped with advanced scanning and trained staff, enables early detection of prostate cancer for at-risk Black men. The mobile

The timing and severity of pollen allergies depend on the type of pollen and the season. For example, tree pollen allergies are more common in the spring, while grass pollen allergies are more common in the summer.

4. Take Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can help relieve the symptoms of pollen allergies. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if you have any underlying health conditions.

5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, can help reduce the severity of pollen allergies over time. It involves receiving regular injections of small amounts of allergens to desensitize the immune system.

Managing Pollen Allergies:

All of these facts are reasons for concern, but Black men must be particularly vigilant. Black men have a 70 percent higher rate of developing high-risk prostate cancer, and are more than twice as likely to die from it. Prostate cancer usually has no noticeable symptoms. The first sign of disease is often found during a routine screening exam. This is why screening is important

1. Monitor Pollen Counts: Check the pollen count in your area to plan your outdoor activities. Pollen counts are usually higher in the morning and on windy days. You can use a pollen tracker app or website to check the pollen count in your area.

2. Wear Protective Gear: If you need to go outside on

Black men have a 70 percent higher rate of developing high-risk prostate cancer, and are more than twice as likely to die from it.

6. Cleanliness: Clean your home regularly to remove pollen and other allergens. Dust with a damp cloth and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap allergens.

While there is no cure for pollen allergies, we hope this information will help you reduce exposure to pollen and manage your symptoms so you can enjoy the wonders of mother nature. Remember, everyone's allergies are different, so it's important to talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage your specific symptoms.

Healthy Ways Brighter Days

Eat right and stay active

Stay active

Get your body moving

Do things that you enjoy. For example, commit to walking every day and invite a friend to keep you company. The activity doesn’t have to be physically difficult.

Keep your plan simple

Start slowly and work up to the following:

• For your heart: Exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week to temporarily increase your breathing and heart rate. Try walking, biking, swimming or dancing.

• For your muscles: Do activities like lifting weights, exercise bands or even yard work for 30 minutes, two days a week.

If you feel dizzy or feel weakness, stop immediately and call your primary care provider (PCP). Talk with your PCP before starting an exercise program.

Member Services

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1‑855‑232‑3596 (TTY: 711)

AetnaBetterHealth.com/NJ

Eat right

Plan a daily, well‑balanced diet

Include vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy, and protein.

Eat less salt and sugar

Avoid processed foods. Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

Eat healthy portions

The correct portion is about the size of your fist. When eating out, take part of your meal home to eat later.

Stay healthy

Visit AetnaBetterHealth.com/NJ

to learn more about proven care and healthcare options. You can use online tools to help you manage your health and find programs or classes in your area.

The only lung transplant program in New Jersey.

The longer you wait for a lung transplant, the less time you have for the things you love. And as the only hospital in the state that performs lung transplants, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center can offer patients a shorter waiting time. We also provide a convenient location so friends and family can spend more time visiting and less time traveling. To learn more about lung transplants, and support services such as pulmonary rehabilitation, pain management and smoking cessation, call 1-888-NJLung1 or visit rwjbh.org/transplant

Newark Beth Israel Lung Transplant Recipient Received the Most Advanced Technology and Expert Care on Her Transplant Journey

“Six years ago I learned that I would eventually need a lung transplant,” says Dawn Burke, 62, of Keyport, NJ. She had idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a disease that scars the lungs.

Her earliest treatments involved portable oxygen tanks at home and regular monitoring by transplant physicians at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s (NBI) Advanced Lung Disease and Transplant Program.

But by 2019, her condition was very advanced. She was admitted to the hospital to await a transplant.

Dawn’s team needed to give her increasing amounts of oxygen in the following weeks. They also worked to help her to remain physically active, so she would be as strong as possible when a donor lung was available.

A month into her hospital stay and despite everyone’s efforts, respiratory failure was imminent. Instead of requiring Dawn stay in bed, the entire transplant team has the skills and training to use specialized equipment that still allows a patient to remain mobile.

At day 36 of her stay, Dawn was able to walk down the hall with this advanced equipment—known as “awake ECMO” (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation)— in tow. Helping her with this exercise, were Advanced Mobilization Team members. This effort helped her to maintain her strength while waiting for her organ.

Four days later, all rejoiced to learn that a suitable organ had become available for Dawn. The transplant was a success. She was home two weeks later, no more oxygen tanks needed.

The Whole Woman Awards

On Sunday, March 26, 2023, The Whole Woman (TWW) hosted approximately 100 of our closest friends and supporters to close out Women's History Month with our Women Honoring Women Awards Ceremony & Luncheon.

This annual luncheon sheds a light on those making a difference and supporting others in our community. Our guests enjoyed a seated lunch and awards ceremony featuring our 2023 honorees: Donna Mendes, MD, FACS, vice chair of Education, Lenox Hill Hospital; Balpreet Grewal-Virk, PhD, SVP, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health; and Glenda Baskin Glover, Ph.D, JD, CPA, president, Tennessee State University, and 30 th international president, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Music Director, Producer, and Composer Ray Chew received TWW's Man of Valor award.

“I’m at a loss for words to explain what it feels like to have this second chance at life,” she says.

At one point, Dawn couldn’t walk five feet. Now, she’s participated in four 5k walks and is enjoying and honoring her life. She never misses a chance to encourage others on the road to transplant, serving as a volunteer and guest speaker for the NJ Sharing Network, raising awareness for organ donation. During April, National Donate Life Month, we encourage the community to register to be an organ donor at registerme.org/nbi

To learn more about the Advanced Lung Disease and Transplant Program go to rwjbh.org/lungtransplant

Deny Yourself

Ihave some information that can transform your life. Many times, we give in to cravings and desires that would be better ignored. I call this denial of self. The self wants ice cream, and to lay on the couch and watch movies all day. The self doesn’t want to work or be productive, but to laze around with no direction. The self wants to stay up late and get up when it desires. We wouldn’t accomplish much if we lived this way, so we must deny these base instincts, deny ourselves.

When that desire to procrastinate comes up, deny it. You CAN develop a schedule for exercise and healthy meals and KEEP it. Go to bed on time. Getting enough rest gives you all the energy you need to get up on time and conquer your day. You will wake up with less aches and pains and feel sharp and ready to take on the world.

Stop putting off your annual checkup, it could literally save your life. Please plan to see your OB/GYN, primary physician, and dentist. Only a medical professional can alert you to developing conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, pre-diabetes, and many others. Negative conditions will increase, so know your numbers and stop any damage to your body.

Now it’s time to stop putting off exercise. Don’t be intimidated by all of these super-fit people at the gym or be confused by the many fitness plans or exercise machines on the market. You don’t have to make a big investment to make a big impact. Invest in some walking/ cross-training shoes and go for a walk. This is the safest and best aerobic exercise to start with. It can be easily adapted to your fitness level and when you are able to do more, you can increase the pace and distance. Start by walking for 15 minutes every morning. This helps to strengthen your circulatory system and increases the oxygen coursing to your extremities. Work out at home or anywhere with my workout and modify it to fit your needs: https://youtu.be/E625Kq64XmQ Invest in some hand weights; pump up the music and create a routine to your favorite songs. Don’t forget to stretch—it releases the tightness of your muscle fascia and increases your range of motion, making you more flexible.

Deny yourself that Frappuccino and pizza and develop a desire for whole, unprocessed foods. Expand your diet with exotic vegetables, adding lean meats and minimal carbohydrates to make a filling meal. Cut down on sugar! It tastes good but is extremely addictive and toxic to your body. Excess salt and sugar stress the body, and make it difficult for the kidneys and liver to eliminate toxins. As you minimize poor choices, the good foods will taste better and better.

Deny poor habits, build good ones; live well and prosper!

Fitness training is available through the Live Well Church FITCARE program, offered at the Fitness Doctor Studio in Somerset, New Jersey. Please call Karen Beasley at 732-912-4435 to schedule a free assessment.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature. You should consult your physician or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or changing your dietary regimen.

Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

Education

the art + science of learning

Spelman College President Helene D. Gayle, M.D., MPH

By Jean Nash Wells

Spelman College:

A Tradition of Excellence

Spelman College is a private liberal arts college for women in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1881, it was initially called the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary with the purpose of educating African American women.

Sophia B. Packard and Harriet E. Giles, the school’s founders, were white women from New England who moved to Atlanta with the goal of teaching African American students. Together, the two women established the school with just 11 students and a mission to educate Black women.

The early years of the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary were challenging. With limited funding, the school struggled to keep its doors open. But determined, Packard and Giles worked tirelessly to secure funding and build support for their institution. Renamed Spelman Seminary in 1884 to honor the significant donation by Laura Spelman Rockefeller, wife of John D. Rockefeller, the school expanded its curriculum to include courses in music, art, and domestic science, and it continued to attract talented and ambitious students from around the country.

Throughout the early 20th century, Spelman continued to face significant challenges—economic depression, world war and discrimination. The school persevered, however, emerging as the premier institution for African American women in the country. In the 50s and 60s, Spelman played a prominent role in the civil rights movement. Students and faculty members took part in

protests and demonstrations, and the school’s leaders worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr., Ralph Abernathy, and others.

Spelman became the first HBCU for women accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1982. This recognition helped solidify the school’s reputation as a leading institution of higher learning. During the years that followed, the college continued to innovate and grow. The school established a new mission statement that emphasized leadership development and social responsibility, and it expanded its academic programs to include majors in fields such as psychology, economics, and computer science.

Today, Spelman College is one of the most respected and prestigious institutions of higher learning in the country. The school’s commitment to educating and empowering African American women has helped it produce a long list of accomplished alumni, including authors Alice Walker and Pearl Cleage; actress and producer Keshia Knight Pulliam; educator Marian Wright Edelman; Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr.; and politician Stacey Abrams.

Spelman’s impact on higher education and society at large cannot be overstated. The school has been at the forefront of efforts to promote racial and gender equality, and it has helped to break down many of the barriers that prevented African American women from achieving their full potential.

Looking to the future, Spelman College holds true to

its tradition of excellence. Its commitment to providing students with a world-class education that prepares them for success in a rapidly changing global economy remains steadfast. Through innovative academic programs, strong community partnerships, and dedication to social justice, Spelman continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow and create a brighter future for all. Along with Clark Atlanta

Spelman College graduates—outstanding Black women— continue to pave the way toward political, social, cultural and educational achievement around the world.

University, Morris College, and the Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman is a member of the Atlanta University Center consortium.

Photos Courtesy of Spelman College

In 1995, Stacy Abrams earned a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies from Spelman College

Education: Building an Equitable City

By Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka

In building an equitable city, there is no single greater foundation than quality education. Every other building block—public safety, home ownership, equitable job opportunities, and wealth growth building – all begin with a successful and fruitful education for our children.

Last October, we held a two-day Education Summit to address inequities in Newark and other urban learning environments. At the summit, educators, school administrators, stakeholders, and students discussed priorities and developed recommendations to enhance the educational experience for our students.

As we know, schools are a microcosm of broader societal issues. The problems we encounter in our culture, both in cities and suburbs, of substance and alcohol abuse, violence, and family struggles, often impede our students’ ability to fully enjoy the academic opportunities we put in front of them.

Equally true is that education can go a long way to end the generational cycles that feed those problems. Therefore, it is imperative that we begin to reform our educational system in a meaningful way. Educational reform, from inside the classroom and out in the community, requires both urgent action and long-term vision.

Newark’s Office of Comprehensive Community Education, led by Dr. Sharnee Brown, has created three priorities to guide toward an educational system that

overcomes the societal barriers to learning, while also planting seeds for the long-term betterment of society.

The first priority area is to promote equity and social justice, by partnering with our stakeholders to offer resources and training to our educators to recognize and balance disproportionality, to work toward equitable education across our schools.

The second priority area is to bolster literacy and build social capital to bolster a Newark pipeline to the college and career workforce, with a special eye on 21st century careers.

The third priority area will be to promote advocacy and cultivate a policy lab, so we can develop solutions to education equity and efficiency on state and local levels.

Eastside High School Students in the Mayor's Book Club

Mayor Baraka shares thoughts with a student on The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

Our Mayor’s Book Club introduces students to great literature to which they can relate. This allows for the students to see themselves in the material. The Mayor’s Book Club, allows students to develop their own voice and sense of self through the books they read.

The Guaranteed Education Pilot Program out of our Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery has paid tuition for 40 at-risk students to attend St. Elizabeth’s College debt-free. Students in the pilot program study in four areas beneficial to our society; nursing, education, psychology, and social work. A guaranteed education program of this nature is a powerful force for students to further their education without the fear of accumulating debt with the hope that they will bring back their talents and what they have learned to their community.

Finally, the Newark Water & Sewer Utility Leadership Academy, brings our students from the City to the Pequannock Treatment Plant and its surrounding 35,000 acre watershed so they can see firsthand that jobs in water treatment, chemistry, civic engineering, and environmental studies are within their reach.

This is the point of education—to give students the ability to dream big and aspire to better themselves and their communities. Students deserve every opportunity to soar and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are afforded the opportunities to do so. This is our dream, and our goal.

Future St. Elizabeth's College Students in the Guaranteed Education Pilot Program

Future St. Elizabeth's College Students in the Guaranteed Education Pilot Program

CAS P E R SEN S CH O OL OF GRAD UAT E ST UDIE S

Master of Teaching

Master of Science in Finance

Master of Science in Data Analytics

ACCELERATE YOUR CAREER AT DREW

Join a diverse and vibrant community of learners engaged in transformative, individualized education. Build marketable skills to grow your network and succeed in your careeer. Participate in small class discussions, be guided by world-class faculty mentors, and work in your chosen field:

> Teaching: Engagement in the classroom and access to a robust network of professionals

> Finance: A rigorous immersion in the methods and tools used in financial services

> Data Analytics: Exposure to a broad range of big data and experiential learning projects

1

a 2-year schedule

<1 hour

NYC, Wall Street, and nearby Fortune 500 companies

LEARN MORE: DREW UNIVERSITY / CASPERSEN SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES MADISON, NEW JERSEY / 973.408.3111 / GRADM@DREW.EDU / DREW.EDU/GRAD

Drew University’s Master of Arts in Teaching Provides a Pathway for Students to Live Their Passion

Drew University’s Teacher Education programs develop teaching skills by blending coursework with real-world, hands-on experiences. Students collaborate with faculty mentors on understanding the needs of diverse learners in a highly networked world.

Specifically, Drew’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program provides initial certification for people ready to become teachers.

Teacher candidates participate in clinically rich coursework in a variety of learning environments in urban and suburban settings.

Over 92 percent of students qualify for scholarships or other financial assistance, including a Special Educator Scholarship, making Drew an affordable option for college graduates and professionals who do not yet have a teaching license but have a passion for educating the next generation of learners.

Drew’s program leads to an MAT degree with certification to teach in elementary or secondary education.

Candidates can complete the 36-credit plus fieldwork program in a one-year accelerated program commencing in the fall, spring, or summer. Students in the program may select either an Elementary Education (K-6) or Secondary Education certification. Students also have the option to complete the program requirements over two years.

With an additional summer of study, students can add a second certification in English as a Second Language or as a Teacher of Students with Disabilities.

The English as a Second Language certification prepares teachers to work with students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

The certification in Teacher of Students with Disabilities builds the right foundation to teach students with diverse abilities, learning to adapt content and teaching methods as appropriate to the needs of children with a range of mental, physical,

social, or emotional differences.

The success of the program is evident in the statistics. One hundred percent of Drew’s completers met New Jersey required scores for the Praxis Core (or equivalent), Praxis II, and edTPA assessments. One hundred percent of Drew’s 2020 and 2021 graduates were hired in teaching positions.

The program combines university coursework, lively classroom discourse, and practical field experience that provides hands-on learning. Small class size fosters interaction with core faculty and provides opportunities to develop and practice individual skills.

“One of Drew’s many hallmarks is its networking opportunities, and the MAT program is no exception,” said Haley Watson C’20, G’21, English teacher at West Morris Mendham High School.

Drew’s faculty are educators with vast experience in instructional design, special populations, elementary and secondary education, historical and contemporary issues that affect access to education and outcomes.

“The support of the professors and faculty in the education program at Drew really helped me achieve this success and prepared me for my career,” said Mat Diaz G’22, Chemistry and Biology Teacher at Livingston High School in Livingston, NJ.

Drew’s Caspersen School of Graduate Studies offers seven master degree programs, two doctoral programs, and eight certificate programs.

All programs are based on Drew’s renowned commitment to faculty-student mentorship, opportunities for out-of-the-classroom, experiential learning, and facilitating a robust intellectual community.

For more information, please visit drew.edu/caspersen or call 973.408.3111.

HBCU/Divine Nine Greek Sunday Service

Abyssinian Baptist Church Honors Pastor’s Commitment to Faith and Education

To honor the legacy of the late Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, (Morehouse College, ‘72 and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity member), The Abyssinian Baptist Church celebrated its inaugural HBCU/Greek Sunday on February 26, 2023. The service emphasized the significant impact of HBCUs and Divine Nine Greekletter organizations in uplifting Black culture. Many HBCUs were founded through Black churches; and most Divine Nine and other Greek-letter organizations are rooted in Christian principles. HBCUs and Greek-letter organizations, committed to educational excellence and societal transformation, focus on the liberation and forward progress of Black people, tenets to which Dr. Butts dedicated his life and work.

David K. Wilson, Ed.D., 10th president of Morgan State

University in Baltimore, MD served as keynote speaker. Other special guests: College presidents: Dr. Patricia Ramsey, Medgar Evers College; Dr. Vincent Boudreau, City College of NY; Dr. Claudia Schrader, Kingsborough Community College; Anthony E. Munroe, Manhattan Community College; NYC Public Schools Chancellor David Banks; NYC First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright; and Columbia University School of Journalism Dean Dr. Jelani Cobb. Vy Higginsen, creator of Mama, I Want to Sing! showcased a special performance by one of the young lead singers from this year’s 40 th anniversary celebration, Asa Sultan.

“ Faith and Education are the Tigris and Euphrates of our redemption, twin rivers at the source of our liberation ….” Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III

Zeta Phi Beta and Delta Sigma Theta Sororities

Morgan State University President Dr. David Wilson

HBCU Alumni Members

Kappa Alpha Psi, Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Phi Beta Sigma, and Sigma Gamma Rho

Abyssinian Baptist Church Associate Minister Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard

L-R: Dr. Jelani Cobb, Dr. Claudia Schrader and Dr. Anthony Munroe

Asa Sultan

TPC Staff

Photos by: Bob Gore

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard

NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks

First Deputy Mayor for the City of New York Sheena Wright

Medgar Evers College President Dr. Patricia Ramsey

brightstarts boldfutures !

David C. Banks: A Legacy of Literacy

By Glenda Cadogan

David C. Banks, a veteran educator, assumed the position of chancellor of New York City Public Schools one year ago. He faced a volatile time for a city staggering out of a pandemic that resulted in widespread school closures and children attending classes virtually. A daunting time for parents and educators alike, Banks boldly stepped up and put his experience to work to turn around a system grasping for wise leadership. His determination then, as now—to leave a legacy of literacy.

Like any good leader, Banks—from his vantage at the Tweed Building, home of the New York City Department of Education (DOE) in Lower Manhattan—surveyed the

lay of the land he inherited. What he found may have been intimidating to a lesser man, but not for Banks—confident in his belief that his wide range of life experiences prepared him for the job.

“The first thing I found was a lot of bright, smart, committed people in a system that was fundamentally flawed,” he said. “There was a huge disconnect between the good people who cared for our children, worked hard, and tried their best; and the bad results we get as a system,” Banks said about his initial review. Second, the chancellor’s survey unearthed “a broken trust coming from family and community members. People were so used to fighting with the administration. It’s very interesting to see the depth of feeling from people in communities around the city who feel that DOE doesn’t care about what happens to their kids. Third, it is only while sitting in this seat that you can fully accept how massive the school system is,” he said, adding, “It is the largest in the nation and there is not even a close second. The whole world actually lives here in New York.” However, as Banks soon learned, this diversity is one of the greatest challenges in righting historical wrongs.

Speaking of his “range of life experiences,” which prepared him to take on the monumental task of educating 1,000,000 ethnically and culturally diverse children and their families, Banks highlighted his schooling and early career. “A product of the New York City Public Schools,” Banks said his was “an excellent school experience every step of the way from head-start to twelth grade. Punctuated by the twin blessings of great school teachers who exposed him to Black history and reinforcement at home by involved parents—Phillip and Janice Banks—his role models to this day, “I grew up with a profound sense of knowing who I am as a Black man. People fought, bled, and sacrificed for me to grow up and be successful,” he said. “I had an obligation to give back to my community.” He singled out teachers like Mildred Scott, who in the fourth and fifth grades exposed students to the depth of Black history teaching them about Denmark Vesey, Sojourner Truth, and Frederick Douglass.

The Rutgers graduate’s next nugget of life experience involved his return to the fourth grade class as a teacher able to pour into kids the richness of what he received

cont’d on next page

Regina Fleming

DAVID C. BANKS

cont’d from previous page

as a student. “My first job in the system was actually as a school safety officer wearing a uniform and breaking up fights in hallways. But as a teacher, I saw young people not getting the kind of educational experiences I received.” So though teaching was not his first choice of profession, at age 22, Banks took on that mantle of leadership with a Herculean disposition. Banks later earned a Juris Doctor degree from St. John’s University Law School.

During a press conference, the incoming chancellor expressed his intent to make parents and family “true partners” in his transformation plan. “Those were not just empty words,” he told The Positive Community one year later. “Having involved parents is part of my DNA; it is how I move and operate. Parents and community members need to be part of creating the path forward. It has been there with me since Eagle Academy,” Banks added, referring to the network of innovative all-boys public schools in New York City and Newark, NJ, of which he is founding principal.

The range of opinions on what’s needed to fix New York City schools is wide, but there is a commonality in a laundry list of issues most often thrown at the chancellor. They include overcrowding, teacher training, parent involvement, communications, and safety. Chancellor Banks gave his opinion on these hot-button topics and then threw one of his own on the pile.

“People talk a lot about overcrowding, but apart from a few pockets in Queens, the fact is the average class size in New York City Grades K–12 is twenty-two. In addition, the new Class-size Bill mandates a class size of 20 students.” Though both Chancellor Banks and Mayor Eric Adams showed hesitancy about the legislation passed last year by the NYS Senate, it was never due to its face value in reducing class size, but doing so as a mandate. “All the research tells us that the greatest impact in reducing

“The first thing I found was a lot of bright, smart, committed people in a system that was fundamentally flawed,” he said. “There was a huge disconnect between the good people who cared for our children, worked hard, and tried their best; and the bad results we get as a system,”

“Our mission is to ensure each student graduates on a pathway to a rewarding career and longterm economic security, equipped to be a positive force for change.”

—David C. Banks

New York City Department of Education

overcrowding comes at the elementary school level,” he pointed out. “The far more important factor in older grades is teacher quality. My concern was about schools having some flexibility. But no chancellor would stand against reducing overcrowded classes.”

Regarding safety Chancellor Banks said “We’ve been fortunate in that the number of safety incidents in our schools has not increased appreciably. Our schools have been a safe haven for young people, but the problem is incidents that happen outside of school, around the corner, and down the block. That’s the real issue. And on that we are working with the mayor, the police department, and community leaders to send the message that safety of our children is the responsibility of the entire village.”

Banks challenged parents that this, too, is an area in which they can become involved. “Parental involvement is not just about meeting with the chancellor to tell him what you need. It is also about coming together and organizing safety patrols on behalf of our children. This is not us against them; it is all of us working together for the safety of our children.”

After addressing these issues, Chancellor Banks put his own on the table. “To me the number one question should be, how come our kids can’t read? “Forty-nine percent of New York City’s school children are not reading at grade level,” he explained. “In Black and Brown communities that number jumps to 65 percent, yet no one is asking why. Why are we struggling to make sure our kids are literate? We are playing around in the margins because we are missing what’s at the core of our

mission. I believe teaching our children how to read is the answer to so many of the other issues we worry about. If children become literate, the possibilities of what they can do in life become limitless. Literacy is my focus.”

The theme coined for his administration, Bright Starts. . . Bold Futures, is what he is banking on to become his legacy. “When I am done here I don’t want to be known as just a nice guy. I want people to say we put young people on track; that we reshaped how we taught our kids to read.” Throw in also being known as “The Arts Chancellor” and Banks will be a happy man. “I deeply believe that arts feed the soul and lift the spirits of kids,” he said. “It’s another way that speaks to youth development. But ultimately, what I would want to leave as my legacy is literacy.”

“When I am done here I don’t want to be known as just a nice guy. I want people to say we put young people on track; that we reshaped how we taught our kids to read.” Throw in also being known as “The Arts Chancellor” and Banks will be a happy man.

Regina Fleming

Staten Island Black History Town Hall

The Central Family Life Center Hosts 18th Annual Event

With the focal point around mitigating historic inequalities with collaborative and innovative methods, Staten Island community leaders and residents joined with other New Yorkers at The Central Family Life Center (CFLC) for the 18th Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall. In addition to serious discussion and informative orations, performances by Gregory Taylor, The Concord Choral Consortium, the Stretto Vocal Ensemble, and Dr. Roger Wesby entertained participants. Guest speakers included NYC Commissioner of Human Rights Annabel Palma, Assemblyman Charles D. Fall, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, and NYC Mayor Eric Adams, along with Keynote Speaker NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks. TPC Staff

Honored for their community leadership were:

● Tanayah Thomas and Tyneiko Nesbitt —Youth

● Bari’s Pizza and Tariq Zaid (Richmond Hood Co.) Business

● District 31 Superintendent Dr. Marion Wilson and NYCID Executive Director Michael DeVito Jr. Education

● SI Urban Center CEO Kelly Vilar, Morounranti Ogunleye, Ahmed Kargbo, and Uncle Chase Foundation Executive Director Charles Gardner Community Leadership

● Prince to Kings, Empower-HER, JCC Cornerstone Gerard Carter Center, My Brother’s Keeper, and Michael Hines Saturday Academy

Nelson Mandela Recognition

L-R: NYC Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, Democratic Executive Board Member Jasmine Robinson, District 79 Superintendent Glenda Esperance, Former NYC Councilwoman Annabel Palma, District 31 Superintendent Dr. Marion Wilson, CFLC Executive Director Dr. Demetrius Carolina, NYS Assemblyman Charles D. Fall, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Richmond County DA Michael McMahon, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY11), SI Public Administrator Edwina Frances Martin

CFLC Executive Director Dr. Demetrius Carolina

The Greater Newark Women’s Assembly 2023: A Women’s History Month Celebration

By TPC Staff

Culture music, art + literature Health ideas for wellness

survival!

By James Frazier Newark News & Story Collaborative

Black Theater Companies Pivot, Present | In-person Theatre is Back

Frustrated with the lack of diversity in American theater, Ricardo Mohamed Khan and L. Kenneth Richardson conceptualized the Crossroads Theatre Company. Since its founding in 1978, Crossroads has produced over 100 works, many of them premiere productions by African and African American artists, including The Colored Museum and Spunk by George C. Wolfe, Jitney by August Wilson, Sheila’s Day by South African writer Duma, Ndlovu and many more. Crossroads received the 1999 Tony Award for Outstanding Region al Theatre in the United States in recognition of its 22year history of artistic accomplishment and excellence.

Money

buiness, finance + work

Women from all walks of life came together at the Greater Newark Women’s Assembly 2023 on March 4th at the Newark Library and March 5th at Newark’s Cityplex 12 for a Women’s History Month celebration. The event, designed to recognize their achievements, also provided empowering tools. The theme, “Pursuing and Fulfilling Wholeness,” celebrates the essential value of women and their efforts toward realizing their optimum destiny, health, and wealth. Inspiring speakers provided relevant and beneficial

“My father’s heritage is East Indian; my mother is African-American and so they were bringing together two cultures,” said Kahn. “That’s ethically as well as geographically. Growing up, there was never a sense that we were solely identified by being Black kids in Camden, New Jersey. Yes, we were Black in Camden, but our roots are global. What I’ve always wanted to tell people through Crossroads is that it’s about our roots. As Black people in this country we should not forget or even allow people to think this is all of who we are.” He continued, “There’s much more! The sense of a connecting, having a theater like Crossroads that connects to many different communities in this coun try and around the world is in order for us to redefine who we are on a larger level.”

information on ways to support themselves, their families, and society at-large. Outstanding women including TPC Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells received awards for their lifelong and lasting leadership, service, and distinction.

The Greater Newark Women’s Assembly’s lofty goal focuses on creating an environment where women experience the power of love and freedom to express their abilities, identities and ideals, as well as being encouraged to embrace the legacies inherited from women who paved the way in generations past.

Education

the art + science of learning

Church on Henry Street. Many performers benefited from early successes on NFT’s stage—the late Chadwick Boseman, Debbie Allen, Morgan Freeman, Phylicia Rashad, Denzel Washington, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Samuel L. Jackson, Issa Rae, and many more. Woodie King Jr. retired from leadership of the illus

“During the first part of the pandemic, March 2020, I had been thinking about retiring,” King revealed. “Then the pandemic increased in time. The offices closed down. Then people needed to have shots. I said, ‘Wait a minute, I don’t want to go back to work. I’m 83 years old. So, what should I do?’ I thought, I needed a young person to run it. And that person was Elizabeth Van Dyke, our artistic director. She’s experi enced and understands how to communicate with this generation. And getting that younger person to run it and work with me over the last year and five months,

Across the Hudson River, one of the pioneering insti tutions integrating artists of color and women into the mainstream American theater, Woodie King Jr.’s New Federal Theater (NFT), faces major changes. Founded in 1970, NFT began as an outgrowth of a theatre program called Mobilization for Youth. The theatre’s first season opened in the basement of St. Augustine’s

As millions of people quarantined last year, the aters around the world temporarily closed their doors and we were forced to stay at home without live entertainment. For the first time, the theater found the need to compete with social media and streaming platforms. NFT embraced change, deciding to shift theater to the digital space with pre-recorded and live

Former Newark West Ward Councilwoman Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth

Pillar College Associate Dean and Professor of Psychology Dr. Maxine Bradshaw

L-R: Pillar College Associate Dean and English Professor Dr. Joanne Noel with The Positive Community Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Communities in Cooperation, Inc. CEO Rev. Dr. Pam Jones James Austin Jazz Ensemble

Photos by: Raymond Hagans

L-R: Singer and Author Tommy Garrett and Fashion Icon Former Ebony Fashion Fair Commentator Audrey Smaltz

L-R: Celeste A. Bateman Associates Founder Celeste A. Bateman and Patterson Foundation COO Yvonne Garrett Patterson

L-R: Newark Councilwoman-at-Large Rev. Dr. Louise Scott-Rountree and Christian Pentecostal Church Assistant Pastor Rev. Dr. Brenda Byrd

Streamline Auto Brokers’ Ribbon Cutting

Streamline Auto Brokers and Streamline Capital's Ribbon Cutting on March 9th, 2023 with partners

Lemuel Brown, I.M. Jefferson, and Edwin Hodges. Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario M. Kranjac, and other local mayors and leaders were also present.

L-R: Streamline's Board Members Pastor Dr. John Givens, Partner I.M. Jefferson, Bishop Jethro James, and Partner Lemuel Brown

Bits and Pieces current news + topics

Collected by Leslie Nash

Juan de Pareja: The Black Renaissance Painter

In 1926 Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a Black Puerto Rican historian and collector, journeyed to Spain to research and explore centuries of Black life in Europe, including that of painter Juan de Pareja who was an enslaved studio assistant to the famed Spanish painter Diego Velázquez. Pareja and his work as an artist intrigued Schomburg.

In 1650, Velázquez painted a portrait of Pareja so lifelike that the painting, carried by its subject, traveled around Rome for comparisons. Pareja gained his freedom, but not much more is known about him. A Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition (April 3rd - July 16th, 2023) explores the

art of this little-known and for the most part, unrecognized artist of the Spanish Renaissance. On display is Pareja's most famous painting, The Calling of Saint Matthew, a 1661 religious scene in which he inserted a self-portrait making direct eye contact with viewers, a tradition incorporated into paintings by other Old Masters including Raphael and Velázquez.

In Schomburg's research, he “wrote explicitly that he wants African American communities to understand that Juan de Pareja is part of our collective legacy of Black excellence,” said Vanessa K. Valdés, an educator and scholar on Schomburg's life who co-curated the exhibition.

NYC Summer Rising: A Free Program for Grades K Through 8

Summer is a great time for children, but it’s a challenging time for working parents. Parents need to plan for summer and NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ administration has come to the aid of New York’s working parents again.

Summer Rising—a free program for New York City public school students in grades K through 8—provides a safe, fun, and enriching experience. Summer Rising includes a full day (8am to 6pm) of in-person academics combined with social-emotional learning, art activities, field trips, and sports.

Last summer, students participated in a variety of programs including “World Explorer,” which focused on the food, language, and culture of different countries. They played ping pong and kickball; took part in nutrition classes, and learned to cook with fresh vegetables; they went on trips to the Bronx Zoo, the Aquarium, Lincoln Center, NY Liberty basketball games, and visited the BioBus.

The Summer Rising session runs from July 5th to August 18th for students in grades K-5, and from July 5th to August 11th for students in grades 6-8. Students receive breakfast, lunch, and a snack; and students with disabilities receive the support they need. Priority for the 110,000 Summer Rising seats will be given to students in temporary housing, foster care, and with 12-month IEP.You can enroll your child now at: https://www. schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer/ grades-k-8

The weather is warming up. Does a day cruising on the Hudson River sound enticing? If the answer is yes, you should take a look at Black-owned Big City Tourism. A new venture on the newly-christened ferry, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and in partnership with New York Waterways runs tour cruises from Pier 78 in Manhattan.

Big City Tourism CEO Kareem Holmes desired to tap into New York’s huge tourism market. “I realized the bottom level of tourism are immigrants and African

Americans selling the tickets for these big companies, pushing all the money to the top, but [the companies] wouldn’t really give anything back,” he said. “I knew there was a place we needed to have a Black-owned business, so I created Big City Tourism so we can have something fresh.”

The tours are one and a half hours long and cost $39.99 for adults. The tour travels down the Hudson, around lower Manhattan, under the Brooklyn Bridge, and then cruises by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Cruise the Big Apple with Black-owned Big City Tourism

american alvin ailey

dance theater may 12 – 14

chris

tucker

Apr 20 @ 8PM Chris Tucker (Rush Hour, Friday, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam) hits the stage with an explosion of comedic energy.

audra mcdonald

Sat, Apr 29 @ 7:30PM

The most Tony-winning actor of all time, Audra McDonald (Carousel, Ragtime) takes to the stage for this concert event.

michelle buteau

May 4 @ 7PM

A night of comedy with the hilarious Michelle Buteau (Welcome to Buteaupia, First Wives Club, The Circle, Adulting).

george

benson

Fri, May 12 @ 8PM • Prudential Center Ashanti, Fabolous, Ja Rule, Lil Kim, Ma$e, Ne-Yo, Robin Thicke, 112 and surprise guests come together for the Mother’s Day Good Music Festival at Prudential Center.

@NJPAC • 1.888.MY.NJPAC • njpac.org

Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561

One Center Street, Newark, NJ

Fri, Jun 2 @ 8PM

An evening with jazz guitarist, NEA Jazz Master and 10-time GRAMMY® winner George Benson

avery*sunshine

Sun, Jun 4 @ 7PM

Let Avery*Sunshine melt your blues away with playfully creative lyrics, bright ‘n’ easy grooves and soulful vocals.

The American Song series at NJPAC is presented, in part, through the generous support of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the David S. Steiner and Sylvia Steiner Charitable Trust, the Joan and Allen Bildner Family Fund, and the Smart Family Foundation/David S. Stone, Esq., Stone & Magnanini.

This Awards event surpassed all my expectations! It was first class, from the host, Rev. Jacques DeGraff, to the musical guests and honorees, and of course, the elegantly attired guests. From the time you hit the door you experienced excellence. Thank you Positive Community for continuing to tell our story...

Rev. Dr. Wendy J. Kelly-Carter Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Greater New York and Vicinity

The Wrap-Up Report

Thanks to everyone who found their way to the historic Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, NJ for The Positive Community’s 4th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet on February 25th. Just ask anyone who attended. It was a wonderful, soulful affair—a blessed occasion. The theme: The Dawn of Freedom 160 Years of the Emancipation Proclamation—1863–2063.

This year’s celebration began on December 30th 2022, with the birth of a new tradition; a solemn observance. The Ecumenical Pre-Watch Night Candlelight Prayer Walk in Newark was created to dramatize the importance of December 31, 1862, Watch Night. One hundred sixty years ago, our ancestors, especially in the Confederate southern states, gathered in anticipation of the next day.

The Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln went into effect on January 1, 1863, New Year’s Day, signaling the beginning of the end to slavery in the USA. In our story, we refer to this season as The Great American Emancipation/The Dawn of Freedom!

The spirit of the Awards Banquet was a collective demonstration of gratitude, love, and respect for all who suffered, and in many cases sacrificed their lives on battlefields during the Civil War in behalf of American freedom (a war that cost over 700,000 American lives).

February 25 was a day of appreciation and celebration for all who are committed to supporting the positive, community-building ideals of self- acceptance, self-reliance, self-respect and selfless service. Each of our distinguished honorees received a beautiful framed Cultural Narrative poster. The Cultural Narrative speaks to the soul; it’s the truth about our people, our nation—our American story.

At a time when Black history is either being altered or banned from public school curriculums and libraries,

The whole banquet was inspiring! Again, thank you for all your efforts to make this fantastic and informative event happen and for Positive Community’s continued promotion of the powerful and unique cultural narrative of African Americans.

we encourage everyone to see to it that our children are taught about origins and destinies. Teach the children appreciation and gratitude. Affirm the dignity of our humanity! Promote cultural literacy through experience and the arts. Inspire our young people to seek knowledge and wisdom; truth and righteousness.

Indeed, the progress of our children and the integrity and dignity of our African American culture, values and traditions—our collective soul—mean everything! Any real or meaningful dialogue about the future must deal with this core reality.

And “Thank you” to our sponsors and advertisers, corporations, small businesses, public and private institutions, and “community partners” that care. It was a very happy occasion, a wonderful celebration of spiritual unity and cultural pride—one community—One Nation Under a Groove! Special thanks to the faith communities and clergy leadership who came to sit at “freedom’s table!” And to the many who travelled great distances to fellowship with us. Shout-out to Host Rev. Jacques DeGraff; Producer Kim J. Ford; TPC Production Team and Music Performers Alexis Morrast, Joshua Nelson, and the McDonalds Gospel Choir.

Check out the images on the following pages. Visit us online thepositivecommunity.com for video highlights of the Awards Banquet and more. Download your copy of the Cultural Narrative poster. For the best music ever recorded, tune in to TPC Radio.com streaming live 24/7. And stand by for announcements of upcoming events and activities. At TPC, we remain ever steadfast in our commitment to provide quality service; to represent and promote our very best—America’s best— Positive Change!

Rev. André W. Milteer President, United Missionary Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc.

A Five Star Event . . . Five Stars! Pastor Terry L. Richardson First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ

The Positive Community's Great Roll Call for Positive Change

Abyssinian Baptist Church, Harlem— Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard

African American Chamber of Commerce—John Harmon, President

Assemblywoman Cleopatra Tucker

Baptist Minister’s Conference of Greater NY and Vicinity— Rev. Geraldine L. Harris, President

Cathedral International, Perth Amboy, NJ—Bishop Donald Hilliard

Charity Baptist Church of Christ, Bronx, NY—Rev. Reginald Williams

Church of the Covenant, NYC— Rev. Dr. Cornell Edmunds

Ebenezer Baptist Church, Orange, NJ—Rev. H. William Rutherford, III

Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ—Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell Fellowship

Kean University

Essex County College

First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ— Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris

First Baptist Church of South Orange, NJ —Rev. Terry L. Richardson, MDiv

Laymen’s Movement of the General Baptist Convention of NJ—Vincent Bryant, President

Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ—Dr. Edward D. Harper

Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark, NJ—Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr.

Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY— Bishop Johnny Ray Youngblood

Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Newark—Rev. Dr. Ralph M. Branch, Jr.

Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Newark—Rev. Rakeem Thomas

National Convention of Gospel Choirs & Choruses - Rev. Albert Morgan

New Garden State Jurisdiction, COGIC NJ— Bishop William T. Cahoon

New England Missionary Baptist Convention—Rev. Dr. Albert L. Morgan

New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ—Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens

The Positive Community is grateful for the love, energy, and commitment shown by the following individuals, organizations, and corporations. Your support for the Great American Emancipation Day Awards means the world to us. We send to you a deep, heartfelt "Thank You."

Office of Black Ministry, Archdiocese of NY—Bro. Tyrone Davis

Ruth Fellowship Ministries— Rev. Tracey L. Brown

St. John Baptist Church, Scotch Plains, NJ—Rev. Shawn T. Wallace

Union Baptist Temple, Bridgeton, NJ—

Rev. Dr. Albert L. Morgan

World Gospel Music Association— Rev. Dr. Albert Lewis

Nesbitt Funeral Home, Elizabeth, NJ

Neighborhood Technical Ctr., Brooklyn, NY—Rev. Dr. Valerie Durrah

Lt. Governor State of NJ Sheila Y. Oliver

Barnabas Health/ Newark Beth Israel Hospital

Global Black Women Chamber of Commerce—Ambassador Susan Johnson Cook

City of Newark

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement—Dr. Malcolm Punter

Urban League Union County— Crystal Orr, Interim President & CEO

Hal Jackson’s Talented Teens International—Debi Jackson

One Hundred Black Women

Willie Blalock—Industrial Bank

Pillar College

Hon. Mildred C. Crump—Retired Newark City Council President

C. Lawrence Crump—Newark City Council, Member-at-Large

New Jersey Democratic Committee— Hon. Leroy Jones, State Chairman

Cotton Funeral Service, Orange, NJ

Urban League Union County—Donna Alexander Lowe, Retired President

2021

NAACP Manhattan Branch —Anthony Harmon

Elizabeth City Council President, Pat Perkins-Auguste

Elizabeth City Councilman

William Gallman

Elizabeth City Councilman

Manny Grova, Jr.

Robert Taylor, Esq., East Orange, NJ

Amaker & Porterfield Transportation, Plainfield, NJ

NAACP New York State —Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, President

NAACP Newark NJ— Ms. Deborah Smith-Gregory

NAACP New Jersey State— Richard T. Smith

Perry Funeral Home, Newark, NJ

Lincoln Park Cultural DistrictAnthony Smith

NJPAC - John Schreiber

Essex County ExecutiveJoe DiVincenzo

Special Thanks to Caterer Two Fish Five Loaves

DJ Lady Grace

Robert Treat Hotel, Newark, NJ

TPC Photographers: Vincent Bryant, Ryan Council, Raymond Hagans, Bruce Moore, Wali Amin Muhammad, Seitu Oronde and Karen Waters.

Positive Community Staff: Leslie Nash, Angela Ridenour, Adrian Council Jr., Marc Williams, Satori MPR, Cheryl Saunders, Austin Fenner, Caryl R. Lucas, Glenda Cadogan, Fern Gillespie, Penguin Design Group, Raymond Hagans, & Wayne Smith. Associate Editor, R.L. Witter, Editor-inChief, Jean Nash Wells & Publisher, Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Special Thanks to Pauline Barfield, Barfield Media

Video Production by PositiveBlackDad Inc.

DIONNE WARWICK

…I so wish I could be there with you all but I am out on the road. As many of you know, I’ve been going through several bereavements with the loss of my friends (Burt Bacharach and Chuck Jackson) and I’m trying to keep those lights on. My love is with each and every one of you! Thank you, Adrian and Jean for this honor. My students from the Dionne Warwick institute are here today. So, please welcome these young people as you would welcome me to this wonderful event of love— which is what the world needs now is love, sweet love!

— Dionne Warwick

TORCHBEARER AWARD

Dionne Warwick is currently celebrating her seventh decade in entertainment. From the works produced/written by Burt Bacharach/Hal David to the recently aired CNN documentary, Dionne Warwick: Don’t Make Me Over, Ms. Warwick is a trailblazer in music, the performing arts, Civil Rights and her humanitarian efforts. She scored two number one pop hits—one with the Spinners, "Then Came You" (1974), then with her Friends (Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight) with "That's What Friends Are For" (1985)—with sales from the latter benefiting amfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research. A five-time Grammy-winner, Warwick earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy in 2019, and continued recording into the 2020s.

TPC Editor-in-chief Jean Nash Wells delivers a message from Dionne Warwick

Students from the Dionne Warwick Institute with Principal Dr. Passion Moss-Hasan (third from left)

ROBERT "KOOL" BELL

The Kool Kids Foundation was started by my late wife, Sakinah. She was dedicated to keeping music education alive for our children. It’s so important that our kids have music in their lives as a means of expression and growth. Thanks again Positive Community for this great honor and keep celebrating good times by listening to Kool and the Gang on Positive Community Radio.com…They keep the community educated because they know how to "Get Down on It!"

— Robert "Kool" Bell

TORCHBEARER AWARD

Robert “Kool” Bell is the co-founder, leader and master bassist for the legendary pop/R&B group Kool & the Gang, the seven-time Grammy awardwinners, who also earned many American Music Awards. Bell and his family moved to Jersey City, NJ in the early 1960s, where he and his late brother, Ronald (Khalis Bayyan), formed Kool & the Gang. A multi-platinumselling group and the most sampled band of all time, Kool & the Gang has sold over 80 million albums worldwide and influenced the music of generations with 25 Top Ten R&B hits, 9 Top Ten pop hits, and 31 gold and platinum albums. Kool’s business ventures include the successful Le Kool champagne and with his departed wife, Sakinah, co-founded the non-profit music education initiative, the Kool Kids Foundation.

L-R: Muhammad Bell with Aisha Johnson

L-R: Muhammad Bell with Aunt Diane Graves

Muhammad Bell, VP of Kool Kids and son of Robert accepts award

L-R: Diane Graves, Adrian Council, Louise Rountree, and Muhammad Bell

REV. DR. VALERIE DURRAH

The Freedom banquet, including Watch Night and New Year's Day, is an added freedom movement to our existing work… thank you for your genius behind this movement. I am a fan of what you promote in The Positive Community!

— Rev. Dr. Valerie Durrah

TORCHBEARER AWARD

Organizations in need of help improving their programs and outreach turn to Rev. Dr. Valerie Oliver-Durrah. Founder and president of Neighborhood Technical Assistance Clinic (NTAC), Dr. Durrah consults and advises on best practices, policy, and outreach and includes NYC Mayor Eric Adams among her many clients.

Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Bethany Baptist Church, and Church Women United, Dr. Durrah is an ordained global minister and the first African American trustee of the Brooklyn Historical Society. Dr Durrah published Lead Me, Guide Me: Capacity Building Resource Guide, for clergy women.

Accepting her award, Dr. Oliver-Durrah spoke of her dedication to helping people improve their lives by enabling organizations to fulfill their goals through effective programs and communication. Working diligently and with faith in God, Rev. Dr. Valerie Oliver-Durrah makes a difference every day.

L-R: Sheldon Mills, National Grid's Renee McClure, Elwanda Young of United Way of NYC, and Gregory Anderson of Bridge Street Dev.

L-R: Ani Chambers, Renee McClure, and Rev. Dr. Valerie Oliver-Durrah

Rev. Dr. Valerie Oliver-Durrah shares honor with family, friends, and associates

CREATE YOUR SPRING AND SUMMER ESCAPES IN NEW JERSEY

Spring brings amazing things, so head out and celebrate every moment. Blissful parks, forests, gardens and beaches. Family-favorite attractions. Distinctive dining, art, history and culture. Inspiring journeys like our Black Heritage and Scenic Byways Itineraries.

Naturally, The Garden State flaunts lots to love this season – and now is the perfect time to book your summer getaway too!

Explore more at VisitNJ.org and access your free official travel guide.

GENERAL BAPTIST CONVENTION OF NJ

UNITED MISSIONARY BAPTIST CONVENTION OF NJ

To The Positive Community: I applaud your display of courage to convene our community in actively contributing to the celebration and perpetuation of an awesome legacy and an apostolic vision of what can yet be on this side of the Jordan.

— Rev. Evans Spagner General Baptist Convention of NJ

TORCHBEARER AWARD

GBCNJ: In 2024 the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc. will celebrate 120 years of service. As we approach that historic milestone, I am grateful on this occasion to have six of the immediate past presidents and the membership at-large share recognition by The Positive Community. Rev. Dr. Calvin McKinney (President Emeritus), Rev. Dr. William McKinley Freeman, Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons Jr., Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell Jr. Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor Jr., and Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell III. We are a fellowship of Baptist Churches throughout the state of New Jersey. We have a great history and a great future.

UMBCNJ: Three presidents have served the United Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ with spiritual maturity and distinction since its founding in April 2013: Rev. Dr. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, and Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris. On Saturday December 10, 2022, Rev. André W. Milteer was installed as the convention’s fourth president. United Missionary Baptist Convention’s journey together is dynamic, nurturing, uplifting, and inspiring.

L-R: Rev. Dr. Evans L. Spagner, Rev. Dr. J. Michael Sanders, Della Walker Sr., and Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor

Genaral Baptist Convention of NJ

L-R: Rev. Gina McKinney and First Lady Brendalyn McKinney, daughter and wife of Rev. Calvin McKinney past Pres. General Baptist Convention

L-R: GBCNJ Pres. Rev. Dr. J. Michael Sanders, VP Nation Baptist Convention USA, Inc. Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, and UMCNJ Pres. Rev. Dr. André Milteer

REV. DR. ALBERT MORGAN

I am grateful for receiving the Torchbearer Award at the Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration. The Positive Community recognizing me for my leadership as president of the New England Missionary Baptist Convention, the oldest Baptist Convention in the United States, will be an achievement that I will treasure. This being my final year as president, the award is a highlight of my tenure. Congratulations for conceptualizing this event that lifts the importance of the contributions of others. My prayers for the continued success of The Positive Community!

— Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan

TORCHBEARER AWARD

Union Baptist Temple Pastor Reverend Dr. Albert L. Morgan delivers a Christ-centered and innovative ministry to his congregation. Dapper with a big smile, Dr. Morgan glows with a quiet exuberance and deep dedication to God.

Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Convention of Choir and Choruses and former Bridgeton, NJ councilmember, he serves on its Board of Education. Additionally, he is president of the New England Missionary Baptist Convention, the oldest Black Baptist convention in the country. His ideas, internal strength, and dedication to God’s word have revitalized and refocused the 150-year-old convention as it continues to grow and prosper under his leadership.

Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan and Union Baptist Temple members

JENNIFER JONES AUSTIN

I just encourage everyone to stay engaged and read The Positive Community, because when you read and subscribe, it actually helps people to do better and be better; to be all that God wants us to be!

TORCHBEARER AWARD

Advocate, thought leader, author, public speaker, radio show host, CEO, and lawyer—that’s what you will find when you Google Jennifer Jones Austin. We add social justice warrior, and the list of her accomplishments is still not quite complete. Jennifer Jones Austin wears many hats. CEO of the anti-poverty, policy, and advocacy non-profit, FPWA, Jones Austin delivers real change for communities of color and New York’s most vulnerable individuals and families.

The lifelong Brooklynite chaired the first-of-its-kind NYC Racial Justice Commission to dismantle systemic racism in the nation’s largest city. Through this work, she led the passage of three charter revisions to make New York City live up to its promise of fairness and equity.

In her acceptance at the Emancipation Day Awards, Jones Austin shared that fighting a debilitating illness helped her refocus and solidify the importance of her lifelong commitment to advancing racial justice and equity.

— Jennifer Jones Austin

L-R: Michelle Drayton, Rev. Kimberly Williams, Jennifer Jones Austin, and husband Shawn Austin

L-R: Newark Councilmember Rev. Louise Rountree, Newark City Council Pres. LaMonica McIver, Jennifer Jones Austin, Rev. Jacques DeGraff, First Lady Linda Jefferson, Rev. Dr. David Jefferson Sr., and Debra Fraser- Howze

Jennifer Jones Austin

JACOB WALTHOUR JR.

“The Positive Community Emancipation Day Event represents an important and dynamic connection for African Americans with those who have gone on before us. This beloved community, its practice of honoring the truth of history, and its boundless faith and persistence in the promise of the future, reflect the power and courage of deliberate, intentional action to reveal the best in each one of us. It was an honor to witness The Positive Community’s award presentation in acknowledgement and celebration of those like Jacob Walthour, whose work continues our tradition of giving our best.”—

Ianthe Philips Chief of Staff Blueprint Capital Advisors

GUS HENINGBURG BUSINESS AWARD

Success means different things to different people. For Jacob Walthour Jr., it means the success of others—especially young people, in achieving their goals and dreams. Not satisfied with life in the ivory towers of Manhattan, Walthour relocated Blueprint Capital, the investment firm he co-founded, to Newark. Walthour has garnered widespread attention for his firm’s work with New Jersey's Black community. Recognized among New Jersey’s Most Influential People of Color, NJ Biz Leaders in Finance, and ROI-NJ’s Influencer Power List, he has testified before the New Jersey State Senate to highlight the economic disparities facing people of color in New Jersey. The South Orange resident shared Blueprint’s corporate motto: “We are different—we care about people and profit.”

L-R: Orange NJ Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Blueprint CEO Jacob Walthour, Elizabeth NJ Council President Pat Perkins-Auguste, Blueprint Sr. Analyst Dwayne Warren Jr.

Jacob Walthour Jr. receives his award from Rev. Jacques DeGraff surrounded by friends and family.

A. CURTIS FARROW

“…We have to get back to the business of supporting one another… I remember back in the 90s the late Lee Dunham, a McDonald's owner/operator, calling me. He said whatever you do, talk to Jean Wells and Adrian Council. And not just talk with them, but make sure they have McDonald’s ads!”

— A. Curtis Farrow

CORPORATE CITIZEN AWARD

A. Curtis Farrow took to the stage in an electric blue coat to accept his award and the energy in the room became palpable. After 20 years as producer of McDonald’s Gospelfest and many other spectacular events, Farrow knows how to entertain a crowd. His heartfelt acceptance speech preceded a sensational Gospel performance by the Gospelfest choir led by the man himself.

A. Curtis Farrow left his illustrious career on Wall Street to pursue a lifelong dream of owning an entertainment company in 1986. That dream became a reality and today Irving Street Rep, a full service agency, provides marketing, public relations, and event planning for major corporations.

As facilitator of McDonald’s African American Future Achievers Scholarship, Farrow oversees the distribution of four-year scholarships to deserving high school graduates. Multiple year grants to the students has resulted in a 99.1% college graduation rate for all the awardees.

A. Curtis Farrow leads McDonald's choir

Dunham Mgmt Corp's Brian Hairston and Black McDonald's Owner/Operators

L-R: Cortesia Norman, Karen Waters, A. Curtis Farrow, Linda Dunham, and Angela Adderley

L-R: Hon. Mildred Crump, George Hampton, and Pastor Kevin E. Taylor

L-R: Tammy Felton, Janice Johnson, and Yvonne Garrett-Patterson

L-R: Burton S. Waddy, Harold Cockburn, Taliah Givens, and Jack Ciattarelli

Rev. Dr. David Jefferson Sr., First Lady Rev. Linda Jefferson, and members of MBC

L-R: Muzette Charles, Jean Nash Wells, Adrian Council, and Jaclyn Durant

L-R: Leslie Nash, Alex George, and Kayla Nash

L-R: Dave Shepard and Debi B. Jackson

Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY and vicinity, Rev. Geraldine Harris, Pres.

L-R: Dr. Dionne Ledford, Roseville Community Charter School and Calvin Ledford, PSEG

EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION

L-R: Cheri Wells, Rev. Robert Morrast, Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan, and Rev. William J. Turner

AACCNJ Pres. John Harmon

L-R: Aetna Team, Tiray Silvis, Cierra Howard-Dye, Wanda Santiago, and Magdaliza Aviles

L-R: Bro. Tyrone Davis, Archdiocese of NY; TPC's Adrian Council Jr., and Rahsaan Garlin, Archdiocese of Newark

L-R: Daryl Spence, Ambassador Cheryl D. B. Murphy, Mofalc O. Mainga, and Gordan Nesta Callender. Jersey City Caribbean Carnival Asso.

Founder of Choose Healthy Life Debra Fraser-Howze

UFT Chief of Staff Anthony Harmon

L-R: Newark Councilman Rev. Patrick Council and son Hasani Council

L-R: Hon. Shavonda Sumter, WBGO's Sheila Anderson, and WBGO President & CEO Steven A. Williams

L-R: Rev. Nigel Pearce; Malcolm A. Punter Jr.; Virginia Montague; and Dr. Malcolm Punter, CEO HCCI

Newark City Council Pres. LaMonica McIver

L-R: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center's Bonita Hickman, Atiya Jaha Rashidi, Linda Kamateh, and Nakita Cooper

L-R: Essex County College’s 9th President Dr. Augustine A. Boakye, Rahsaan Garlin, and Alfred Bundy

L-R: Rev. Jacques DeGraff, Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, and Pastor Michael Carr

L-R: Julia Amaker Porterfield and her husband Rashad Shabazz

Chef Derek Smallwood of Two Fish & Five Loafs

Our American Story

BLACK

READ

IT, SPEAK IT, TEACH IT , OWN IT

The Great African American Cultural Narrative

The African American Cultural Narrative

African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years).

On January 1, 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law, signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born.

One hundred years later, in August, 1963 at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial, as he led hundreds of thousands to a March on Washington, seeking an end to discrimination and 90 years of Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full and equal citizen’s rights for the people in what has been called “the Second Emancipation.”

Forty years after Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elects its first black president, the Honorable Barack Obama (2008).

In the 100 years between the first and second emancipation, in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching; enduring the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, education, medicine, invention, sports, and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature, and theater. Indeed, original American art forms and a popular culture which has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! And that is our story—the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race—revealed!

An Extraordinary History

Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation, and triumph that we must never, ever forget! This is the very story we must tell our children and ever be remembered for all future generations. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation must tell our story and sing our greatest songs to each other and to the entire world! We must remind ourselves over and over again of the noble struggle, human dignity, sacrifices and wisdom of our torch-bearing forefathers; of our goodly heritage, our divine inheritance; our great music legacy—Positive Music Matters!

This is our story—the cultural narrative— a new language of freedom; a springboard toward a great and prosperous future; a spiritually enlightened ideal. A vision of hope, opportunity, and progress; liberty and happiness; health and wholeness—peace and goodwill!

WE’VE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH…! —Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Teach the Truth! Teach the children their American story in just 281 words! . . . And may they commit this very narrative to memory,and pass it along.

Affirm the positive—our claim on the American Dream! Own this beautiful 25x19 poster with a rich, majestic, presidential blue background color in large print; which includes images of two American presidents, alongside images of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, poet Maya Angolu and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.

Frame this poster and proudly display it on the walls of your home, office, places of business; in the classrooms and your houses of worship; in barbershops, beauty salons and restaurants. Your $10.00 investment will pay dividends one thousand fold when you teach it to a young child and in return, they speak it back to you. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

for

Positive Community Radio

As Seen in:

“The Positive Community has introduced a big deal playlist that roars with good music; there are no categories or distinctions between their flow: Doowop, bebop, hip hop are family members of the Black Diaspora sharing a cultural, historical and spiritual lineage of music. “We want to play all the music old and new,” said COO and co-founder Jean Nash Wells. “We want our music to influence younger people to broaden their musical palate and get excited about Black music in its many creative forms, as well as older listeners hearing other genres of Black music they wouldn’t ordinarily listen to.” It is a similar concept to Inner-City Broadcasting early on when it owned and operated WBLS-FM known as “The Total Black Experience in Sound,” a catchphrase used by its program director Frankie Crocker. The radio station WWRL-AM was known as The Sound of Soul/Progressive Radio.”

Please support The Canaan Baptist Church Of Christ's 91st Anniversary by purchasing an ad in our journal, which will be distributed at the end of 2023. If you are interested in purchasing an ad for the journal, it must be print ready. (various sizes in white, gold, silver, etc.) Please inquire by sending a letter to: 132 W. 116th Street, New York. NY 10026, Attention: The Canaan Baptist Church 91st Anniversary Committee or call 212-866-0301 for more information on pricing and the size of the journal ad you would like to purchase. Thank you!

Rev. Dr. John Scott's Final Sermon As Pastor

Rev. Dr. John Scott, civil rights icon and beloved pastor of St. John's Baptist Church in Harlem, is retiring after fifty years of spiritual and community leadership. On May 18th, Dr. Scott will be honored at Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI).

His final sermon as pastor: "Gratefulness for the Grace of God."

L-R: Rev. Dr. John Scott, Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg, Regina Rogers-Ellison, and Adrian Council

Photos by: Bruce Moore

Assemblywoman Timberlake Celebrates Community Trailblazers

By TPC Staff

At the Loft in West Orange in mid-March, Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake hosted her annual cocktail and awards reception, ”Celebrating Trailblazers in the Community.”

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, NJ Citizen Action President Phyliss SaloweKaye, East Orange Council Candidate Naiima Fauntleroy, Bloomfield Township Councilwoman Wartyna Davis, and Newark Firefighter Latina Byrd—trailblazers all—received warm receptions and expressed gratefulness for

their recognition of their service. Two organizations received newly created awards. People’s Organization for Progress Chairman Lawrence “Larry” Hamm accepted the award named in honor of the late Essex County Freeholder Lebby C. Jones Award. St. Matthew AME Church of Orange, NJ was the Albert Pelham Award Recipient. The award honors the late Albert Pelham, beloved president of the Montclair NAACP, executive director of the Montclair Neighborhood Development Corp, and dedicated community servant.

State Chairman LeRoy J. Jones Jr. and wife, Jacqueline Jones.

L-R: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Newark NAACP President Deborah Smith-Gregory, and Orange Mayor Dwayne D. Warren

L-R: Britnee N. Timberlake and members of St. Matthew AME Church of Orange, and Orange Mayor Dwayne D. Warren

L-R: Britnee N. Timberlake and Wartyna Davis

People’s Organization for Progress Chairman Larry Hamm and Newark Councilmember Rev. Louise Rountree

Assemblywoman Britnee N. Timberlake with her husband, Dimitri Charles

Photos by: Raymond Hagans

Publisher

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief

Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor

R. L. Witter

Executive Assistant

Leslie Nash

Sales

Angela Ridenour

Adrian Council, Jr.

Marc Williams

Satori MPR

Cheryl Saunders

Austin Fenner

Contributing Writers

Glenda Cadogan

Fern Gillespie

Contributing

Photographers

Vincent Bryant

Ryan Council

Regina Flemming

Bob Gore

Raymond Hagans

Bruce Moore

Wali Amin Muhammad

Seitu Oronde

Brian Branch Price

Karen Waters

Art Direction & Layout

Penguin Design Group

Raymond Hagans

Community & G overnment Affairs

Wayne Smith

The Last Word

BY R.L. WITTER

THE GIFT OF LITERACY

Icelebrated my birthday in April. And despite being the oldest I’ve ever been, I felt like a child again! My husband and I took a trip to celebrate and there was so much we wanted to do and see. We left the hotel each morning by 9:00 am and didn’t return until it was dark out each evening. It reminded me of riding my bicycle with the neighborhood kids on summer days and only coming home when dusk signaled the street lights would soon be illuminated and dinnertime was near. Another childhood memory that surfaced during our trip was summer reading. As I packed my carry-on bag, I had to decide which book or books would be accompanying me for the flights and for late nights in the hotel room when Hubby was sleeping and I was not. I’ve always been a night owl, even as a child of five or six years old. The rule was I had to stay in my bedroom and the overhead light had to be turned off. While the small bedside lamp wasn’t enough to inspire me to play with Barbie or other toys, there was always a book beside that lamp and whatever book it was kept me occupied for hours.

list of summer reading then checking the books out one by one.

During the summers of my youth, I can recall my mother and my aunt, Leslie, with their beach bags on the ferry to Fire Island and then again on the beach. There was always sun tan lotion or oil (it was a very different time), a can of Tab cola, huge sunglasses, snacks and toys for the kids, and whichever paperback books they were reading at the time. Children would ride waves, build sandcastles, and look for seashells as the ladies would chat, sip, then pull out their books to enjoy the afternoon. Soon my summer reading was also added to Mom’s beach bag and I’d join them in reading as my brothers and cousin, Bobby, continued their play on the beach.

For this most recent trip, Michelle Obama joined me on the plane and in quieter moments with The Light We Carry. Mrs. Obama’s wit and wisdom were the perfect accompaniment to the joy I was already feeling from our adventures and exploration during the trip.

Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com

Website: thepositivecommunity.com

Through my love of reading, I traveled the world and met people and characters who introduced me to new foods, languages, and friends long before my passport was ever stamped. I learned about other cultures, geography, history, poetry, art, and adventure. Each summer I’d spend hours at the public library, curating a

While I no longer have the entire summer to disappear into books, I am thankful for the time I do have to read. I’m also eternally grateful for my parents having instilled in me a true love of reading and the gift of literacy. I look forward to our getaway planned for August and deciding which book will travel with me to the beach and transport me to places beyond.