December 2022

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ December 2022 thepositivecommunity.com

H A PP Y HOLID AYS!

$2.95

HEAF: Addressing Inequities in Education

Positive Change

HBCU Spotlight Jackson State: More than Football Op-Ed: Mayor Eric Adams

Rudolph Wynter

President, National Grid NY

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DECEMBER ISSUE 2022

CONTENTS

23

Cover Story

Rudolph Wynter, President, National Grid New York

Features Partnerships Critical to Academic & Opportunity Gaps ..15 Omega Psi Phi's Achievement Week Celebration ........ 17 Black Joy ................................................................. 19 The Gift That Keeps Giving for Your Child .................... 21 AACEO First Friday Breakfast .................................... 26 Momentous Happenings at Monumental ................. 34 Bed-Stuy Winter Wonderland ..................................... 41 Bishop Eatman’s 41st Pastoral Anniversary ................ 42 Giving Thanks in Harlem ........................................... 43

Witnessing Faith; The Photography of Bob Gore

SECTIONS

Money

Education

HBCU Spotlight: Jackson State

12

4

The Positive Community December Issue 2022

20 Black Businesses Mean Business

Culture

Health

&also inside

Publisher's Desk .............................................. 8 Guest Editorial NYC Mayor Eric Adams ...... 10 Onward ............................................................ 18 Fitness Doctor ................................................. 30 The Last Word ................................ 46

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Newark Forward With Faith The General Baptist Convention of NJ Honors Our Veterans www.thepositivecommunity.com

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First Baptist Church, New Reid Temple COGIC, South Orange, NJ East Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor Bishop William Cahoon General Baptist Convention, NJ North Stelton AME Church, Rev. Dr. J. Michael Sanders, President Piscataway, NJ Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Jethro James, Pastor to PROGRESS GREAT Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Park Ave Christian Disciples of Greater Mount Zion A.M.E., Christ, East Orange, NJ Trenton, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Rev. Dr. Charles F. Bayer, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor and institutions listed below have committed to the Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 Harlem Congregations for Plainfield, NJ Community Improvement (HCCI) Rev. Tracey Brown, PastorFind out more magazines per monththrough at $1.50the each or theyofsupport this publication through the purchase of advertising. each orleast they 50 support this publication purchase Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., President & CEO Shiloh AME Zion Church, by calling advertising.

Find 973-233-9200. out more by calling 973-233-9200.

Imani Baptist Church, Englewood, NJ East Orange, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Mariners’ Temple York, NY Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Pilgrim C., Newark, NJ Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Rev. William DerekB.C., Lee,New Senior Pastor ShilohB. B.C., New Rochelle, NY Newark, NJ Rev. Henrietta Carter, Pastor Clark, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor It IsDr.Well Living Ministries, Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, Pastor Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Clear View Baptist Church, Supt.

Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor Rev. KahlilB.C., Carmichael, Pastor Memorial, New York, NY Convent Avenue Ruth Fellowship Ministries,NJ Plainfield, NJ Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, Newark, B.C., NJ Harlem, NY Newark, NJ Baptist Church, New York, NY Abyssinian Rev. Dr. Renee Baptist Washington Gardner, Rev. Brown,L.Pastor Macedonia Church, Rev.Tracey Dr. Danielle Brown, Pastor Supt.

Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., Pastor Senior Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Lakewood, ShilohAME B.C., Trenton, Shiloh Zion Church,NJ Englewood, NJ Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Cross and Crown Christian Church, Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Rev. Givens, Pastor Rev.John DarellD.Armstrong, Pastor Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. James B. Logan, Pastor Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Shiloh St. Anthony Baptist Church, B.C., New Rochelle, NY Abyssinian Baptist Churh Community Church Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastorof God, Rev. Dr.Baptist Henrietta Carter,East Pastor Messiah Church, Orange, NJ Aenon Baptist Brooklyn, NY M. Hentz, Pastor Rev. Dr. DeQuincy Newark, NJChurch, Vauxhall, NJ Plainfield, NJ Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Rev Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor Rev.Preston AntonioE.Porter, PastorJr., Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Thompson, Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Agape Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Danielle L. Brown, Pastor Elizabeth, NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Senior PastorJefferson, Pastor Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor Rev. Dr. David Rev. Craig Baptist R. Jackson, Pastor Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Agape Church, Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Patricia Perkins-Auguste Messiah Baptist St. Darell John Armstrong, Baptist Church, Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Church Harlem, NY Antioch Baptist Church, Pastor Brooklyn, NY Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Convent Avenue Baptist Church, Rev. Pastor Camden, NJ Bridgeport, CTJ. Byrd, Pastor Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor Rev. Dr. Malcolm Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor New York, NY Antioch Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. James B. Logan, Pastor St. Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Rev. T. Washington, Pastor Rev.Dr.Dr.Carl Jesse T. Willams, Jr., Pastor St.Anthony John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ NY Brooklyn, of NYNew York Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Archdiocese Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ Rev. Robert Waterman, Cross and Crown Christian Church, Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Brother Tyrone M. Davis, Office of Pastor Black Ministry East Orange, NJ St. AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. GuyNJ Campbell, Jr., Pastor Orange, St.James Luke Baptist Church Archdiocese New York Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, Baptist MinistersofConference Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor NY Rev. Ronald L.NY Slaughter, Pastor Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor of Harlem, Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ of Brother GreaterTyrone NY & Vicinity Davis, Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Johnnie Pastor NJ St. John Baptist McCann, Church, Camden, Rev. Dr. Elton B.C. T. Byrd Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, President Office of BlackA.Ministry Ebenezer of Pastor/Founder Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Silas M. Paterson, Townsend, Pastor Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Jr., Pastor St Luke B.C., NJ Baptist Ministers Hackensack, NJ First Baptist Church of BCT Partners, Newark,Conference NJ Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Rev. Kenneth Clayton, Pastor Lincoln Gardens, Greater NY &CEO Vicinity Ebenezer B.C.,Somerset Orange,NJNJ St. John B.C., D.R. Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor Dr.ofRandal Pinkett, Harlem, NY Rev. R. Quick, PhD, Pastor Rev. T. Wallace, Pastor Rev. Geraldine L. Harris, President Rev.Dante' H. William Rutherford III, Pastor St. Shawn Mark Missionary B.C., Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Malcolm J. Byrd,NJPastor Jamaica, NY Church of Harlem, NY First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY BCT Partners, Elizabeth, NJ St. Luke Baptist Rev. W. Baptist Milteer, Pastor Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr.,Newark, Pastor NJ Mt.André Neboh Church, Rev.Dr. Owen E. Williams, Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor Dr. Randal Pinkett, CEO Councilwoman-At-Large Rev. Johnnie McCann,Pastor Pastor Harlem, NY Church, Trenton, NJ Mt. Zion AME Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Patricia Perkins-Auguste St. Matthew AME Church, Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY First Baptist Church of Kenilworth, NJ St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev.J.Dr. Johnnie GreenPastor Jr., Pastor Rev. Stanley Justice, Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor Orange, NJ Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Empire Missionary Rev. Nathaniel Bullock Jr., Pastor Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor Mt.Zion Pisgah Brooklyn, Mt. B.C., B.C., Westwood, NJ NY Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor Baptist Convention Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev.Bernard Dr. Johnny Youngblood, Pastor St. B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Glee,Ray Pastor Rev. Timothy E. Jones, Pastor Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Pastor St.Mark PaulMissionary Baptist Church, Rev. Adolphus C. Lacey, PhD, Pastor Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor Rev. Owen E. NJ Williams, Pastor Mount Olive Baptist Church, Montclair, New Beginnings Agape Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Evergreen Baptist Church, Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Hackensack, Christian Center,NJ Freehold, NJ First BaptistNJ of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Orange, Pastor NJ St. Matthew AME Church, Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Palmyra, Rev. Timothy L. Adkns-Jones, PhD, Pastor Rev. Rev.Dr.Dr.Andre JohnMcGuire, O. Page, Pastor Pastor Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor Rev. E. Wilson, Pastor Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor St. Melvin Paul Baptist Church, Beulah Bible Cathedral Church,B.C., Newark, NJ Bethlehem Missionary Mt. Garden Olivet B.C, NJ New StateNewark, Jurisdiction First CorinthianMissionary Baptist Church, Red Bank, NJ Church, Montclair, NJ St. Paul Baptist Gerald LydellNJ Dickson, Senior Pastor Fellowship B.C.,NY Roselle, COGIC NJ W. Milteer, Pastor Rev. André Rev. MichaelNJ A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor Rev.Dr. Alexander Brown, Pastor Rev. Bernadette Glover, Pastor Newark, Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Bishop William Cahoon Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev.Park Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder St.Paul PaulBaptist Community First Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ St. Church,B.C., Red Bank, NJ Rev. Calvin Bible McKinney, Pastor Church, Beulah Cathedral Rev.Hope J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NYBrown, Pastor Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr.,ofPastor First Baptist Church Rev. Alexander Newark, NJ Church, Morristown, NJ Metuchen, NJ Westwood, NJ Calvary Baptist Mt. Zion B.C., Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Gerald Dickson, Senior Pastor First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. JerryLydell M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Rev. Bernard Glee, Pastor Rev.Dr.Danté R. Quick, PhD, Pastor Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ Rev. Terry Richardson, Pastor Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, New Hope Baptist Church ofChristian East Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY New Beginnings Agape Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor First Baptist Church, Orange, East Orange, NJ Garfield, NJ General Baptist Convention, NJ Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ NJ Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Center, Freehold, NJ Pastor East NY The New Hope B.C., Newark, Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Rev. Dr.Elmhurst, J. Michael Sanders, President Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor Rev. Dr. Andre McGuire, Pastor Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Calvary Baptist Church, New Baptist Church of Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ The NewBaptist, Hope B.C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor NewHope Garden State Jurisdiction First Baptist Church Union Bridgeton, Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Morristown, NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Rev. Carter, Senior Pastor COGIC NJ of Kenilworth, NJ Rev.Joe Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor Cathedral Rev. JerryInternational., M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Bishop William Cahoon Grace B. C., Mt.Bullock Vernon,Jr., NYPastor Perth Amboy, NJ Rev. Nathaniel Union Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ NJ UnionBaptist Baptist Church, Elizabeth, Canaan B. C. of Christ, New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Dr. Baptist Franklyn Church W. Richardson, Pastor NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, PastorHarlem, NY New Baptist Church, Rev. L. Morgan, First of Teaneck, Rev.Albert R. Lenton BuffaloPastor Jr., Pastor Rev. EricHope Wallace, Pastor Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr.Zion Marilyn Harris,NY Pastor Greater Hill Monroe B.C., Harlem, Charity Baptist Bronx, United B.C., Asbury Park, NJ UnitedFellowship Fellowship B.C., Canaan B.C.,Church, Paterson, NJ NY New TempleL. COGIC Rev.Reid Dr. Ronald Owens, Pastor Rev. Dr. Baptist Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Rev. JamesPark, H. Brown, First of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Asbury NJ Sr., Pastor East Orange, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor New Hope Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor Rev. James H. Brown, Pastor Bishop WilliamBaptist Cahoon Church of East Harlem Congregations for Christian LoveInternational, B.C., Irvington, NJ Walker Memorial B.C. Sr., Bronx, NY Cathedral Orange, East Orange, NJ Community Improvement (HCCI) Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor First Central Baptist Church, Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Perth Amboy, NJ North Selton AMEE.Church, Rev. Dr. Vernard Hinton, Pastor Malcolm A. Punter, Ed.D., President & CEO Piscataway, NJ Staten Island, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ New Baptist Church Rev. Dr.Hope Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors Rev. Dr. Demetrius Carolina, Pastor NJ Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Welcome Church, Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., PastorBronx, NY Rev. Dr. ElijahBaptist C. Williams, Pastor Charity Baptist Church, of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Newark, NJ Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Reginald PastorNJ Community B.C.,Williams, Englewood, Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor World Gospel Assoc., Newark, NJ Michael Walrond, Jr., Senior Rev. Dr. Elijah Music C. Williams, Pastor It Rev. Is Well LivingA.Ministries, Clark, NJPastor Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Rev. Dr. LesterLove Taylor,B.C., Pastor Christian Irvington, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor First Park Baptist Church, World Gospel Music Assoc., Rev. Brandon KeithofWashington, PastorNJ Park Ave Disciples of Christ, Rev.Orange, Eric Christian Wallace, Community Church God, Plainfield, East NJ Pastor Plainfield, NJ Church, Lakewood, NJ Newark, NJ Macedonia Baptist Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor RufusD.McClendon, Jr., Pastor Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Dr.Rev. Edward Harper, Pastor

R C

ROLL CALLOLL

GREAT

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MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches 12/13/22 4:53 PM one and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the only that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries

New_Roll_Call_11_2022.indd 1

ADRIAN COUNCIL PUBLISHER’S DESK

The Great Emancipation Day Remembrance Celebrating 160 Years of Freedom

F

or African Americans, January 1, 1863 was much more than just another New Year’s Day. On that day, the Emancipation Proclamation,

signed by President Lincoln, went into full effect and three and one half million of our enslaved ancestors were freed!

Each year since, we pause to remember that wonderful moment in history, and to celebrate the people who are helping to create our everbrighter modern history.

In 2023, that celebration will be held on Saturday, February 23rd, in Newark, NJ, the city that is the Heart of Positive Change throughout the East coast.

We’ve Come this Far by Faith!

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Our American Story IN CLASSIC BLACK

R E A D I T, S P E A K I T, T E A C H I T, O W N I T

T O D AY !

The Great African American Cultural Narrative

A

The African American Cultural Narrative

frican 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!

Order your copy today for only $10.00; 2 for $15.00.

Become a valued contributor to The Story about Our Future—today!

Special Rates for Bulk Purchases.

Include $7.60 for priority shipping and handling. Tax included.

Send Check or money order to: The Positive Community Corporation, 133 Glenridge Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042 PayPal and Credit Card accepted Order by phone 973 233 9200

Order online: www.thepositivecommunity.com

NYC MAYOR ERIC ADAMS GUEST EDITORIAL

A Safer New York

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

Photo: nyc.gov

W

hile I was on the campaign trail, I met many New Yorkers who expressed their desire for a safer city. New Yorkers want to feel safe in their neighborhoods, at their places of worship, in the subway, and on the streets. I vowed to make public safety my top priority, and under the bold leadership of NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell, our efforts are paying off. WE have a lot more work to do, but I want to be clear to New Yorkers: we are making progress.

For the first time this year, we saw a drop of 1.2% in overall index crimes in November compared to November 2021. What does that mean? It means that in November 2022, compared to November 2021, we saw a 32.8% decrease in shootings, a 14.1% decrease in rapes, a 6% decrease in burglary, and 5.5% in grand larceny.

We have also removed more than 6,750 guns from our streets so far this year. Gun arrests are at a 27-year high, and we’ve seen a decrease in murders and shootings.

This is not a coincidence. It shows our laser focus on public safety is working. We created an anti-gun unit, which has been effective at removing illegal firearms; and we’ve added more checks to detect illegal guns before they enter New York City. We’ve also had success in our fight against “ghost guns.” These are guns that can be ordered online and assembled at home; they do not have serial numbers and are untraceable, which makes stopping them from entering our city even more urgent.

We have more officers on patrol in key neighborhoods, and newly created Neighborhood Safety Teams are focusing on the 30 precincts where a majority of violence occurs. We are working hard and working smart to make the most of our resources and make our city safer.

As part of our Subway Safety Plan, we are sending mobile crisis teams and outreach workers into the system to connect with homeless New Yorkers and help them get the assistance they need. We’ve also introduced a surge of 1,200 additional police officers patrolling subway platforms and trains each day. As a result, in just over a month, we have seen a 12.8% reduction in major crime in transit stations compared to the same period last year.

We’re addressing the problem of “ghost cars”—cars with illegal paper or obscured license plates—that don’t follow our traffic rules. And we’re pursuing targeted bail reform in Albany.

Just as important, we have achieved historic diversity in hiring. We want our NYPD Academy classes to resemble the neighborhoods they serve so they can better understand our diverse communities’ needs and form closer connections. So, our most recent hires to the NYPD are on average 41% Hispanic, 23% white, 19% Black, and 15% Asian. And, on average this group is 29% female.

There is much more work that remains to be done.

Crime is still substantially higher than it was in 2017, and New Yorkers deserve to be safer than they are right now.

We will not rest until New Yorkers both ARE safe and FEEL safe. Public safety is the key to prosperity. It is the only way we can achieve a just and equitable New York in which everyone—no matter what language you speak, or where you come from—can thrive. I promised I would make a difference in public safety during my campaign, and as mayor, I am proud to say we are well on our way to a safer New York. www.thepositivecommunity.com

A celebration of Emancipation Day in Richmond, Virginia, c. 1905.

Image courtesy of the Library of Congress

Make it a

DOUBLE DATE Get your flu vaccine

It’s safe to get both at the same time.

They’re our best defense against serious illness and complications.

Plus your updated COVID-19 booster!

Call 877-VAX-4NYC or visit nyc.gov/vaccinefinder. www.thepositivecommunity.com

December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

11

Education the art + science of learning

Jackson State University More than its Football Team

Deion Sanders

Jackson State Univ. President Thomas Hudson

by Mirtha Donastorg Reprinted with permission: mirtha@tpinsights.com

O

n Saturday night, Deion Sanders announced he was leaving Jackson State University after three years to become the head football coach for the University of Colorado, spawning countless tweets and think pieces debating the move to a predominantly white institution.

But Jackson State is more than its football program and its accomplishments off the field have completely flown under the radar over the past few days. In November alone, the school announced $1.5 million in grants from the National Science Foundation, the Mellon Foundation and the Mississippi Department of Health for research initiatives and upgrading The Margaret Walker Center.

Last month, Jackson State also hosted student enrichment programs, ranging from a pre-law workshop to a research exchange with the University of California – Berkeley. Multiple faculty and officials also received recognition for their work and the school announced a significant increase in its first-time freshman enrollment, among many other recent accomplishments.

Here is more news out of Jackson State that you may have missed: Social work Professor Brian Anderson earned his fourth Social Work Educator of the Year award and was appointed to the Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Membership and Professional Development.

At the beginning of November, the school released a

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

report card of the 2020-2021 school year showing that Jackson State received $96.4 million in external research dollars, an increase from $54.4 million the previous year.

Also on the research front, Princeton University announced the 10 projects it was collaborating with HBCUs on. Jackson State is conducting two projects, one looking at “Dielectric Performance of Polymer Nanocomposite Heterostructures for High Energy Storage Capacitors” and the other researching “The Shifting Safety Net: The Role of Disability Insurance Programs in Household Budgets, Dynamics, and the Broader Community.”

Jackson State also announced that it was joining the PENN Entertainment initiative to fund STEM scholarships at HBCUs and create internship opportunities for students.

The company has dedicated more than $4 million over five years and is now working with six HBCUs total.

Additionally, in October, author and MacArthur Fellow Kiese Laymon announced he was taking a major initiative to Jackson State. The acclaimed writer is bringing the Catherine Coleman Literary Arts and Justice Program from the University of Mississippi to Jackson State where it will be housed at The Margaret Walker Center.

Much of the debate around Sanders’ move to Colorado centers around this question of what will happen to Jackson State now that the spotlight of Coach Prime is going elsewhere. But let’s not forget that sports is not the only bright star in Jackson. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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November 5, 2022 Application Window Open

February 3, 2023 Application Window Closes at 11:59 pm April 18, 2023 Match Release (Tentative)

www.newarkenrolls.org Where Passion Meets Progress

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December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

13

HARLEM EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES FUND

HEAF changes the lives of young people from underserved communities beginning in middle school and continuing in college and beyond through a youth development approach that includes rigorous year-round academic enrichment, social and cultural exposure and constant individual attention.

PROGRAMS 11-Year Continuum Summer Quest 5-week summer experience for rising 6th-9th graders. Students study Math/ELA as well as a broad range of experiential electives of their choice.

High Expectations Introduces middle school students to college preparation and exploration, preparing them for admission to NYC's top high schools.

College Quest High-school students are prepared for college-level coursework, college tours/visits, and guidance through every step of the college, financial aid, and the scholarship application processes.

Onward Onward serves as a support network for HEAF’s college graduates. We provide our college students with the continuing social, emotional, career, and community support to successfully make the transition to college and to complete their undergraduate studies. HEAF facilitates our participants’ college experience with gestures such as sending care packages, visiting students on campus amongst others.

College Graduation + Career Success

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO APPLY, VOLUNTEER, OR SUPPORT HEAF'S PROGRAMS TODAY!

Photos Courtesy of HEAF

Michael Johnson and HEAF Director Emeritus Maurice Sonnenberg, who was recognized at the HEAF Gala.

HEAF high school seniors and twins Justin and Jonathan are celebrated by the crowd as Justin says, "Standing in front of you on this stage are two college-bound young Black men who are beyond grateful for the experiences, opportunities, and lifelessons that HEAF has taught us.”

HEAF Founder & Chair Emeritus Dan Rose with HEAF students at the organization’s recent Gala

Partnerships are Critical to Addressing Academic and Opportunity Gaps

By Michael G. Johnson, President and CEO, Harlem Educational Activities Fund (HEAF)

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air and equitable opportunity for a solid academic experience should be the norm and it’s what we all expect. But it’s not what we all experience.

Especially for Black and Brown students, for those from underserved communities, for those who are first in their families to consider college, the obstacles can be daunting if not sometimes impossible to overcome. Compound that with the challenges of a pandemic over the last two years —remote learning, the growing digital divide. It’s not a very encouraging picture.

After 25 years in economic development, corporate philanthropy, and government administration—this summer I assumed leadership of Harlem Educational Activities Fund, the nonprofit college access program that for more than thirty years has opened doors to college and meaningful careers for students from underserved communities across New York City.

I stepped into my role knowing that addressing

academic and opportunity gaps for our young people is the right thing to do, and with the firm conviction that addressing inequities in education will raise us as a society—all of us, regardless of background or stature.

Opening doors to opportunities for often-overlooked communities will flood talent pipelines with diversity, new ideas, and broader perspectives.

We all appreciate the progress we have seen in our lifetimes, and can point to stories of individuals who pulled themselves up “by their bootstraps” to become celebrated titans of industry. However, those stories are the exception, not the norm.

Our education system is not fair or balanced in this country, which means students do not have equal access to academic resources, or the same exposure to college and careers. We are failing our children across the board.

I’m sure by now everyone has seen the National (continued on next page)

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December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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Chess has long been an aspect of HEAF’s programming that teaches students critical thinking and strategy development.

STEM classes are part of HEAF’s core curriculum and electives.

Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) report that showed the largest drop in math scores ever, and a nationwide plummet in reading that reversed thirty years of progress.

Low-per forming fourth-grade students saw larger declines in both math and reading scores than high-per forming students, and Black and Hispanic fourth graders had larger score drops in math than white students.

Zooming in on New Jersey, NAEP reported 38% of the state’s fourth graders were proficient in reading, and 39% were proficient in math. These numbers exceed national averages of 29% for reading and 35% for math, but also represent a significant drop compared to pre-pandemic scores.

These numbers are daunting, but I know there is a road to success. I know there is a guaranteed way to make progress for all our nation’s students, and critically for those whose communities are disproportionately underserved.

HEAF students build lifelong bonds.

The answer is enrichment programs that partner with the public and private sectors to provide support for our students outside the classroom.

HEAF’s tuition-free program gives middle and high school students rigorous academic enrichment to complement and supplement the work they are doing in the classroom. We focus on personal development, encouraging students to find their voices and define their goals. We drive college prep and success, and with our corporate partners and volunteers, we provide career exposure and readiness.

Compared with the overall results in HEAF’s hometown of New York City, and compared with the national statistics, our students outperform on every metric.

Over 90% of HEAF students are people of color. Many

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

HEAF classrooms are inviting and encouraging. Dialogue is key to growing ideas.

come from single-parent or single-income households; many qualify for free school lunch; 100% graduate on time, every single one of them. They’re accepted into colleges and universities across the country, and they succeed. Then, they return to HEAF to give back. What better measure of success is there than that?

From my perspective, it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure each and every student has a fair chance and equal opportunity to be successful. And our founders, Dan and Joanna Rose, believed that as well.

We celebrated HEAF’s roots in October at our annual gala, and honored Dan and the late Joanna for their overwhelming generosity and commitment to children who don’t HEAF staff are committed to HEAF’s have the privilege of mission and strive to engage and build access to resources relationships that encourage success that will propel their success.

I encourage all communities to embrace the example set by Dan and Joanna Rose, to support programs that bridge academic and opportunity gaps, and make sure every student in this country has a chance to succeed. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Omega Psi Phi's Achievement Week Celebration

Photos by: Raymond Hagans

Eta Pi Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

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he Eta Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. welcomed National Urban League President Marc Morial and First Corinthian Baptist Church Harlem Pastor Rev. Michael Walrond Jr. as guest speakers for their Achievement Week Celebration. The event, moderated by the fraternity’s Chairman of Mentoring Committee Brother Matt Stevens, took place at the Omega Family Resource and Learning Center in East Orange, NJ on November 19, 2022.

Young men in the mentoring program joined the audience to engage in intergenerational conversations about the state of the Black community. “These young men in the program are excited to share their thoughts and learn from community elders as they prepare to be leaders of the future,” said Stevens.

L-R: Adrian Council and National Urban League President Marc Morial www.thepositivecommunity.com

L-R: Marc Morial, Matt Stevens, Rev. Michael A. Walrond Jr.

Bricks 4 Kidz President Tara Harrington teaches youth in the Dr. Ernest Everett Just Mentoring Program about robotics

L-R: Brian Harris, Jean Nash Wells, Rev. Michael A. Walrond Jr. December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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SONJA D. GRACY ONWARD

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

Why I Teach—One by One

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he question of how to affect new, cutting-edge, equitable, empowering curricula to meet 21st century skills ranks second only to the why of teaching. I pondered this question last summer.

Former Fordham High School for the Arts Principal Michael Johnson Jr. believed new teachers should know their reason for teaching. When Nick Siewert, a senior educational consultant for the Teaching Matters organization, began our summer professional development session with an icebreaker to share our whys, I came armed to recount a small win that helped cement my pursuit of this calling.

I shared with Jesse Curti, a former restaurant manager turned U.S. History and Personal Finance teacher, my story about a student I’ll call Laneesha. By far the leading female brawler at the top of the turbulent teen food chain at the South Bronx school where I taught as a substitute.

Laneesha could be quite genial, but had a get-you-goodand-told style and was infinitely more popular with boys than girls. On top of that, she could write checks her fists could furiously cash. Many girls envied her.

When Laneesha found out a group of girls planned to jump her, she told a school paraprofessional, “…if those girls jump me, there’s nothing I can do about it. But they should know I’m coming back, and when I do, I’m gonna stomp each of ‘em one by one.” The paraprofessional spread the warning, and the proposed jumping? Instantly quashed. Laneesha’s bravado made her “the one by one girl”—she didn’t issue idle threats.

The first time I covered her biology class this mythic, teen, female fisticuffer floored me with her admirable and assiduous recount of chromosome structure, its quantity, and its foundational role in human genetics.

During independent work time, I scooted beside her with brimming incredulity at her STEM-sational prowess.

Laneesha sensed it and smiled a coy smile.

“I’m not dumb, Miss,” she said. “I didn’t think you were,” I shot back. “But let’s face it, you’re known more for fighting than for science.” She stopped smiling. “Why don’t you become known for something other than fight-

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

ing? I mean, nobody’s going to mess with you here—unless they’re a new student or just plain crazy.” Laneesha laughed. “If you know science like this,” I began, “why don’t you try to make the honor roll?” Now it was Laneesha who was shocked.

“Are you serious, Miss?! Me?” Laneesha said with eyes wide with surprise. “You think I could make the honor roll?” “Sure do!” I told her with absolute certainty. And within a year’s time, I watched this brawler blossom into a table leader and inquisitive English Language Arts lover in an ELA class I co-taught that spring. It was in June that Laneesha and I shared a joyous bear hug as we tracked her name on the huge, meritorious honor roll in the school’s corridor.

Now, the term “one by one” is my why for teaching.

I love this endeavor. And even if I become the world-famous writer and producer I aspire to, I’ll still find a way to teach teens. Nothing compares to the thrill of witnessing teen potential unfold in front of you in ways that teaching yields. Because of that, I’ll keep striving to make a collective effect on education through gains mutually inspired, teacher to student, “one by one.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Black Joy

By Fern Gillespie or 35 years, a Black couple in East Orange has been bringing Black joy to millions of youthful readers. Since 1987, Wade and Cheryl Hudson, the founders and publishers of Just Us Books, have been the lead independent, Black publishing company producing positive, inspirational, and educational books focusing on Black children and young adults.

Wade and Cheryl launched Just Us Books when they became discouraged looking for books that spotlighted Black history, Black culture, and Black experiences for their children. “We couldn’t really find anything. Cheryl worked in educational publishing and I am a writer,” Wade said. “Rather than continue to complain about the lack of these books in the marketplace, Cheryl and I decided we would start our own publishing company. We started with the AFROBETS A B C Book based on a group of Black youngsters called the AfroBets Kids, who contorted their bodies to make the shapes of the alphabet.

We printed 5,000 copies and sold out in a couple of months. There was a demand for books like this. We knew we were really on to something.”

Just Us Books created an award-winning literary company that celebrated Black children through wondrous books on art, culture, history, and family. Works included acclaimed artist George Ford’s Bright Eyes, Brown Skin and Jamal’s Busy Day. Legendary Floyd Cooper illustrated How Sweet the Sound: African American Songs for Children; and The Secret Olivia Told Me, written by N. Joy, and illustrated by Nancy Devard, won the Coretta Scott King Award for Illustration.

In 1992, Scholastic Inc. tapped Just Us Books with a production partnership, which resulted in more than a

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dozen books. As independent authors, Wade and Cheryl Hudson have written award-winning children’s and young adult books for major publishers. Current books include Wade’s award-winning memoir about his childhood in Louisiana Defiant: Growing Up in the Jim Crow South and co-authoring young adult social justice anthologies We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices and The Talk: Conversations about Race, Love & Truth, featuring essays and art by noted diverse authors and illustrators.

Some of these inspirational books by the Hudsons and Just Us Books have appeared on school and library banned book lists. This includes the anthologies and even the delightful picture book My Friend Maya Loves to Dance.

“It’s dangerous because the books being challenged are by Black authors with the truth about slavery and racism, and books about LGBTQ people,” said Cheryl. “I think it’s part of a national effort by right-wing and other racists to counter what is being taught in our schools and libraries,” added Wade.

However, schools, libraries, and publishers are fighting book bans and embracing more Black literature. “In children’s books, there’s been more Black joy. Stories are not just about the weight of slavery or being marginalized or being the only Black child in something or the first Black child to do something,” said Cheryl. “Our Afro-Bets ABC book was not a book on race. It spotlighted African American culture. Jamal’s Busy Day was about a little Black boy who enjoyed going to school. Now major publishers are doing more of that type of work. Black joy is becoming more normalized.”

A list of recommended books can be found on our website: www.thepositivecommunity.com/2022/12/14/black-joy/ December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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Money

business, finance + work

Black Businesses Mean Business

reSURGEnce2023

L-R: John Harmon Sr. and Rev. Dennis Dillon

A

coalition of clergy, business, and community leaders came together at Brooklyn Navy Yard for the Black Businesses Mean Business reSUREnce 2023 Conference in November.

Hosted by New York Christian Times, the two-day event launched a year-long campaign designed to fuel and energize Black businesses along with strategic partners, community-based organizations, and government agencies to share diverse approaches to help Black-owned businesses build wealth. Closing the economic gap means bringing together key stakeholders and developing the necessary dynamics for entrepreneurship, as well as providing greater access to government contracts and other business opportunities.

Participants included New York City Small Business Services, Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, Dormitory Authority State of New York, City College of New York, The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, and Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce among others. For more information: https://resurgence2022.com

L-R: Rev. Dennis Dillon and Lloyd Williams

Christian Times Publisher Rev. Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church Pastor Dennis Dillon with Sharon Leid, NetStruc PR Bishop Johnny Ray Youngblood

Prelate of Gospel Assembly Matters Of Faith President Rev. Churches International Apostle Dr. J. Loren Russell Bishop Cecil G. Riley

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

L-R: Dr. George Frasier and Rev. Dennis Dillon

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Gift That Keeps Giving for Your Child This Holiday Season

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inancial education is crucial to long-term success – and that education begins at an early age. Research suggests many of the habits we carry into adulthood are set by age seven. For parents, it’s important to lay a foundation early that children can build on. Gifting a child a bank account this holiday season is one step to promoting financial literacy, empowering them to learn and develop healthy savings goals and budgeting habits that can help set them up for future financial success.

Unlike a regular savings account, a child’s savings account may come with additional perks, including no monthly account fees or opening balance requirements.

Additionally, banks often create original content for younger audiences, making it easier for kids to learn responsible money managing basics. Often these learning tools are online/mobile – for example, Chase provides new young customers with The Quest, an animated graphic novel that teaches kids about saving regularly, spending wisely and earning money – to help boost your child’s financial education.

Opening a savings account for your child can: • Help them learn more about saving money. Teach your kids how to plan and prioritize their costs Help them develop a realistic budget to build a foundation and monitor their spending.

• Save money for a specific short-term financial goal. Take the opportunity to encourage your child to set aside funds in their savings account to make a special purchase – whether it’s saving up to buy that new game or bicycle they’ve been wanting. www.thepositivecommunity.com

• Provide hands-on experience. Kids often learn by doing, so consider opening a child savings account as soon as they start receiving money. Empowering them with a child debit card can help build good money habits.

• Teach them more about banking. Your child can learn how to deposit checks in a branch, bank online, and withdraw cash at an ATM by helping co manage their account.

Building a Healthy Financial Future Opening a kids’ savings account provides a natural avenue for parents to talk to children about their financial wellness and, while they often don’t pay high yields, these accounts are meaningful tools to start a child on a responsible financial path from an early age.

It’s important to provide ways for kids to earn money through chores, an allowance or a summer job. Longterm, the goal is for children to gain real-life experience earning and managing money when they become adults.

That way, they will be more equipped to be part of a larger discussion about debit cards, credit cards, auto loans or other financial products they may need as they enter adulthood.

Visit chase.com/parents to discover more tips and tools to teach your kids good money habits.

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Making an impact in our community While we have a long, proud legacy of community involvement, we see an opportunity to have an even greater impact in the communities where we live and work. And as we continue our efforts to bring the clean energy future to our customers, we recognize our responsibility to ensure nobody is left behind in the transition.

From neighborhood beautification to workforce development, we’re thinking beyond our conventional energy delivery services and helping to create a more equitable future for every customer and neighborhood we serve.

ngrid.com/project-c Connect with us on

National Grid’s RUDY WYNTER

By Sandra Black

R–L: Rudolph Wynter with NYC Mayor Eric Adams

www.thepositivecommunity.com

December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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rooklyn native Randolph “Rudy” Wynter, president of National Grid’s New York business, is responsible for the financial, operational, and customer-focused performance of the company. Also in his purview are relationships with regulators, government officials, and its four million customers. National Grid provides electricity and natural gas service from Niagara Falls to the forks of Long Island. With more than 30 years of tenure at National Grid and its legacy companies, Wynter became president in April 2021.

The charismatic corporate leader gives full credit to his parents, the values they instilled in him, and the impact they had on his life. “My father was born in Cuba, my mother in Jamaica, where they met. My parents emigrated to the United States, raised three children, and taught all of them the importance of being part of the community, giving back, and helping others. When I think back on that now, I marvel at how brave it was for them to start a whole, new life and family here.”

It follows that young Rudy wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and aspired to the attainment of a good education leading to a career as an engineer. He earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, an MBA from Fordham University, and completed an executive development program at Harvard University. Wynter liked solving complex problems and armed with these degrees, he grew as a leader, making a difference in New York by finding needed solutions. He further exemplifies his commitment to community by serving on the boards of the United Way of New York City, the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, and the American

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

National Grid provides electricity and natural gas service from Niagara Falls to the forks of Long Island. With more than 30 years of tenure at National Grid and its legacy companies, Wynter became president in April 2021.

Association of Blacks in Energy. In fact, in 2015, he was named by the news organization City and State New York to “The Responsible 100,” an annual list of New York’s most outstanding corporate citizens.

A proponent of giving back, his work has resulted in National Grid’s Project C initiative, which marked its first anniversary in September. Wynter describes it best: “The ‘Day of Service’ is really a microcosm of our yearround efforts. I am very proud of my workforce.”

On this year’s Day of Service, more than 2,000 employees made positive impacts by donating their time at more than 200 volunteer events in communities across the company’s 26,000-square-mile New York service area. Focused on strengthening communities and making a difference on that and every day, volunteer efforts took place at food banks, senior centers, and veterans’ service facilities. National Grid employees build homes through Habitat for Humanity and work with Sleep in Heavenly Peace affiliated chapters, actually building beds for children who may be sleeping on floors and couches. Employees also volunteer to clean up and landscape neighborhoods and parks, provide various levels of assistance at nonprofits, and more. In addition to volunteering, Project C focuses on four key areas: clean energy and sustainability, workforce development, neighborhood investment and community engagement, and environmental justice and social equity.

The last book Wynter read was a mind-expanding, cheerfully dystopian, fiction novel, www.thepositivecommunity.com

PROFILE Scattered All Over the Earth, by Yoko Tawada. The book, recommended by a friend, imagines a future in which the climate crisis has eroded borders and cultural identities.

It is no surprise this book would interest him. National Grid has a Clean Energy Vision for the future. “We announced in April 2022 that we will seek to eliminate fossil fuel from our gas networks by 2050, replacing it with renewable natural gas and green hydrogen, while also maximizing energy efficiency and helping customers electrify their heat in targeted areas. We are investing in renewables like wind and solar. When I reflect on National Grid’s historic fossil-free plan, Project C, and the hundreds of other projects our employees commit to throughout the year, I know we are on the right path.”

What does this busy leader do to relax or de-stress?

Wynter enjoys spending time with family and friends, cycling, and playing tennis. He tries to ride or play often to avoid burnout.

Reflecting, he spoke of essential life lessons.“This is a much-quoted line, but to me it is also a life lesson. ‘Be careful what you are thinking because your thoughts control your life.’ The lesson there is to spend your time

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Reflecting, he spoke of essential life lessons.“This is a much-quoted line, but to me it is also a life lesson. ‘Be careful what you are thinking because your thoughts control your life.’ thinking about positive possibilities and how you can move things forward. The second lesson is always to have a plan but continue to work on a better one.”

Under Wynter’s compassionate leadership, National Grid works to find solutions to the challenges of its customers in New York and deliver a bright energy future.

About the Author: Sandra Black‘s background is in public

relations, marketing, editing, and branding. She currently provides consulting services to a select number of clients in Georgia and New York, her home state.

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L-R: TPC Consultant Cheryl Saunders, Dee Bailey, National Grid President Rudy Wynter, Jessica Bailey, and the National Grid team

AACEO First Friday Breakfast

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he monthly meeting of the African American Clergy and Elected Officials (AACEO) held at Antioch Baptist Church brings together community stakeholders involved with improving the lives of NYC residents.

National Grid President Rudy Wynter was the special guest speaker at the First Friday Breakfast on November 4, 2022. With just days to go before the general election, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, joined by NY Attorney General Letitia James and NY Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, led an enthusiastic get-out-to-vote charge.

Reverends Reginald Backus and Conrad Tillard presented a touching remembrance tribute to the late Rev. Calvin O. Butts III. Then, after the breakfast meeting, AACEO members filed onto buses led by a police escort to attend the funeral services of the beloved pastor of Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church.

L-R: NYC Mayor, Eric Adams, National Grid President Rudy Wynter, and Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman

L-R: Dee Bailey, NYC Mayor, Eric Adams, and Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman

L-R: National Grid President Rudy Wynter, NY Attorney General Letitia James.

L-R: Judge Caroline Wade, Dr. Conrad Tillard, and 79th Precinct Deputy Inspector Timothy Skretch.

Rev. Reginald Backus

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

NY Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado

www.thepositivecommunity.com

4.75 in.

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MWBE certification with the Port Authority of NY & NJ is your key to unlocking contract opportunities of all sizes, as well as training and networking programs, to help your business grow.

LEARN MORE AT PANYNJSD.COM

22PAN0030_A-PAN Port Authority_PA The Positive Community Close 12/2 1C (BW) Newspaper

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4.75

A 11849023 booster that DM 207978 targets editthe 3/0 COVID-19 variants?

11/22/22 14:49 PM

Internal K. Samanka

DM

1 of 1

Bullseye.

V. Roberts

M. Miesemer

All New Yorkers 5 years and older should get a new bivalent COVID-19 booster today.

To learn more, visit nyc.gov/vaccinefinder or call 877-VAX-4NYC. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Eric Adams Mayor Ashwin Vasan, MD, PhD Commissioner

December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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music, art + literature

Health The General Baptist Convention

of NJ Honors Our Veterans

ideas for wellness

D

Money

eeply felt gratitude, pride, and honor for their service took place at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church

in Newark as the General Baptist Convention of NJ celebrated veterans. A resource panel provided information Saving lives

and answered questions concerning healthcare and benefits, Veterans Administration (VA) and private health The Mount Sinai Robert F. Smith services, housing, health and life insurance issues, education, training, transportation, and community support.

Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit buiness, finance + work VA representatives helped veterans use an onsite mobile claim clinic to file claims, check on claim status, and answer

By Jean Nash Wells questions. State and federal officials; veteran service organizations such as the American Legion, the VFW, the NAACP; and civic groups along with many other sponsors shared information on policy issues and other services.

Education the art + science of learning

But there is good news; with early detection, prostate NJDMAVA Veteran Service cancer can be treated successfully and Officer thanks toDeAndre 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

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.

L-R: James Harris and Vincent Bryant

L-R: Veteran Edward Sims, Representatives from Community Hope, and Veteran Wilbert Noble

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Gurley Photos by: Karen Waters

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s 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.

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.

The Positive Community December Issue 2022

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Supervisory Veteran Service Rep. LaShanda Carter

L-R: Daryl Coon, GBC President Rev Dr. J. Michael Sanders, Rev. Kevin White, and Vincent Bryant www.thepositivecommunity.com

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

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.

Mission Not Impossible

W

stock.adobe.com

e often think it impossible to live whole, productive lives–living well in all aspects: spirit, mind, and body. Even if we have tried and failed, We must not give up. It is not impossible. This mission is entirely possible and attainable.

Encourage wellness in the mind and spirit by exhibiting gratefulness. Being grateful and taking a positive position rather than a negative one can encourage, lighten, and give us joy. This joy can be shared with others and will hopefully encourage those around us. We can pass on gratefulness, joy, and positivity in our attitude, speech, and actions. This leads to feeling better in the body.

It promotes a healthier lifestyle, boosts the immune system, fights stress and pain, and supports longevity.

Wellness in the mind and spirit floods the body with what it needs to be well!

In what other ways can we encourage wellness in the body? The first step should be a visit to your doctor. If you haven’t had a physical in 2022, call and schedule it.

During a physical, your primary care doctor can evaluate your health and monitor trends in your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, etc. By reviewing your condition annually, your doctor can tell you if your levels are trending higher or lower than they should. You can then take the appropriate steps to improve. Many persons in

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the beginning stages of diabetes, hypertension, or other chronic conditions still feel very well. Don’t wait until you are sick to go to the doctor. Preventative maintenance has untold value.

You must also eat well, concentrating on whole, unprocessed foods. We are bombarded with rich and sugary foods at this time of the year, but try to strive for balance and keep your daily calorie allotment in mind. If you have a heavier lunch, have soup and salad for dinner. When you can, try to limit empty carbs and sugar. Eating a clean, healthy diet along with increasing exercise will put you well on your way. Eating well may reverse diabetes, lower bad cholesterol, and eliminate high blood pressure.

Check with your doctor and begin to incorporate exercise. No need to join a gym just yet—buy some barbells and start at home with arm curls, split squats, lunges, leg raises, planks, and stretches. Try my workout and modify it based on your needs: https://youtu.be/E625Kq64XmQ. Start slowly and build in intensity. Walking is one of the best aerobic exercises you can do. It is low impact and can strengthen your bones, muscles, and cardiovascular system.

Gift yourself with wellness—it’s possible and attainable!

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. www.thepositivecommunity.com

5 ways to enjoy holiday eating with GERD You don’t have to miss out on delicious holiday food–you just need to know how to tweak.

If you live with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you know how unpleasant it can be; eating the wrong foods at the wrong times or in the wrong quantities can cause you hours of misery and guarantee a sleepless night.

Fortunately, says Smruti Mohanty, MD, Director of Gastroenterology at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, “it’s absolutely possible for people with GERD to enjoy holiday eating.”

Though there are some foods you really should try to avoid—such as especially rich, deep fried or fat-laden foods—in many cases, moderation is key.

Here, Dr. Mohanty offers 5 ways to help make sure your holiday meals are a source of comfort and joy.

1. Beware of reflux triggers. Chocolate, peppermint, alcohol and coffee are a few examples of foods and drinks that increase acid secretion. Instead of fully caffeinated coffee, consider chamomile or ginger tea, both of which are known to quell acid reflux. If you’re having an alcoholic drink, don’t smoke at the same time.

2. Eat mindfully. Animated conversation around the holiday table can deflect your attention from how fast and how much you’re eating, and overeating or eating too quickly can cause reflux. Also, be sure to pace yourself with sips of water between bites.

3. Take an antacid at least 30 minutes before a meal. Proton pump inhibitors like Nexium, Prilosec, and Prevacid reduce the production of stomach acid, so even if eating does trigger reflux, it’s likely to be less painful if you’re proactive with medications.

4. Wear loose clothing. “Tight clothing, such as tight jeans or belts, can exert pressure on the stomach,” says Dr. Mohanty. “This causes stomach acid to move up into the esophagus, resulting in acid reflux.”

5. Don’t eat before bedtime. “Lying down on a full stomach can trigger reflux,” says Dr. Mohanty, “so try to plan your meal at least two to three hours before bedtime.”

To learn more about GERD, call 973-926-3535 or visit rwjbh.org/newarkbeth

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Health plans as low as

$10 a

month

9 in 10 get

financial help!

Need health insurance? New Jersey residents are getting quality, affordable health coverage through Get Covered New Jersey, the state’s Official Health Insurance Marketplace. Established by Governor Murphy, Get Covered New Jersey is offering increased plan choices, and more savings than ever.

Nine out of 10 people enrolling qualify for financial help to lower their costs, and many pay $10 a month or less for health insurance! Plans include free preventive care, coverage for prescriptions, emergency services and more.

Open Enrollment is here! Enroll by December 31st for coverage starting January 1st.

Find your plan at

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

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Culture

music, art + literature

!

Health survival ideas for wellness

By James Frazier Newark News & Story Collaborative

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

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Money

L-R: Newark Council Member-At-Large Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree, and former City Council rustrated with the lack of diversity in AmerChurch on Henry President Mildred Crump ican theater, Ricardo Mohamed Khan and Street. Many performL. Kenneth Richardson conceptualized ers benefited from earthe Crossroads Theatre Company. Since its ly successes on NFT’s founding in 1978, Crossroads has produced stage—the late Chadover 100 works, many of them premiere wick Boseman, Debbie productions by African and African American artists, Allen, Morgan Freeincluding The Colored Museum and Spunk by George C. man, Phylicia Rashad, Honorees and special guests standing L-R: Evangelist Herlene Jones, Mother Clementine Wolfe, JitneyBrother

by August Sheila’s Day

by SouthNewark AfDenzel Washington, Covington, WaliWilson, Muslim, Rev. Al Sharpton, Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Rev. Louise rican writer Duma, Ndlovu and many more.

Crossroads Scott-Rountree, Pastor Michael Jordan, Seated L-R: Minister Dyanna Aldridge and Mother LaTanya Richardson received the 1999 Tony Award for Outstanding RegionJackson, Samuel L. Barbara Gibson al Theatre in the United States in recognition of its 22Jackson, Issa Rae, and Ricardo Kahn year history of artistic accomplishment and excellence. many more. Woodie “My father’s heritage is East Indian; my mother is Crossroads Theatre Company King Jr. retired from African-American and so they were bringing together leadership of the illustwo cultures,” said Kahn. “That’s ethically as well as trious theater at the end of June. geographically. Growing up, there was never a sense “During the first part of the pandemic, March 2020, that we were solely identified by being Black kids in I had been thinking about retiring,” King revealed.

Camden, New Jersey. Yes, we were Black in Camden, “Then the pandemic increased in time. The offices but our roots are global. What I’ve always wanted to closed down. Then people needed to have shots. I tell people through Crossroads is that it’s about our said, ‘Wait a minute, I don’t want to go back to work. roots. As Black people in this country we should not I’m 83 years old. So, what should I do?’ I thought, I forget or even allow people to think this is all of who we needed a young person to run it. And that person was are.” He continued, “There’s much more! The sense Elizabeth Van Dyke, our artistic director. She’s experiof a connecting, having a theater like Crossroads that enced and understands how to communicate with this connects to many different communities in this coun- generation. And getting that younger person to run it try and around the world is in order for us to redefine and work with me over the last year and five months, who we are on a larger level.” solidified it for me.”

Across the Hudson River, one of the pioneering instiAs millions of people quarantined last year, thetutions integrating artists of from color and women into the aters around the world temporarily closed their doors Min. Abdul Haqq Muhammad L-R: Rev.Jr.’s Al Sharpton, Scott-Rountree, mainstream American theater, Woodie King New andRev. we Louise were forced to stay at home without live enMosque 25, Representative of the and MayorFoundRas J. Baraka Honorable Minister(NFT), Louise faces Farrahkhan Federal Theater major changes. tertainment. For the first time, theRev. theater found the Al Sharpton gave closing speech ed in 1970, NFT began as an outgrowth of a theatre need to compete with social media and streaming program called Mobilization for Youth. The theatre’s platforms. NFT embraced change, deciding to shift first season opened in the basement of St. Augustine’s theater to the digital space with pre-recorded and live

buiness, finance + work

Education the art + science of learning

Photos by: Raymond Hagans

Newark Forward With Faith

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he Newark Interfaith Alliance, the Mayor’s Office of Clergy Affairs, and the Newark Municipal Council held the Ninth Annual Newark Interfaith Prayer Breakfast on October 13, 2022. The breakfast brought faith leaders of all denominations together to honor community members who uplift others through their works. Hosted by Newark Council Member-At-Large Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree, Keynote Speaker Rev. Al Sharpton and Mayor Ras J. Baraka addressed the audience. Rev. Lorraine Stancil and Corey Fulmore served as psalmists.

L-R: Rev. Andre Coffee and Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Music Ministry

L-R: Guest Preacher Antioch Baptist Church, Cleveland, OH Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle and Rev. Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr.

Children of Monumental Baptist Church

L-R: Rev. Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr., Adrian Council and First Lady Shirley Mapson

Momentous Happenings at Monumental

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The Positive Community December Issue 2022

Photos by: Karen Waters

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or 196 years, Monumental Baptist Church in Philadelphia PA has served its faith community.

On Sunday, November 13, 2022, the stalwart institution celebrated the 35th Pastoral Anniversary o f R e v. D r. J . We n d e l l M a p s o n J r. D u r i n g t h e morning service, guest preacher Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle, retired pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, OH, led the congregation in thanks for the continued service of Rev. Dr. Mapson and First Lady Shirley D. Mapson. During a pre-anniversary ser vice on Sunday, November 6, guest preacher Fountain Baptist Church Pastor and President of the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey Rev. Dr. J. Michael Sanders enjoined the congregation to reflect on the power of the Word. A fantastic anniversar y gala at the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ on November 12 preceded the pastoral anniversary service.

Family members: standing L-R: Charles E. Mapson, Shalaya Brown, Andre Brown, Zaundria Little, and Marc Curtis Little. Seated L-R:Sarah Brown, Brian Brown, First Lady Shirley Mapson, Rev. Dr. Wendell Mapson Jr., Jessie W. Mapson III, Giselle Foster, and Saniyyah Mapson. www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

December Issue 2022 The Positive Community

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Witnessing Faith

The Photography of Bob Gore

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first experienced the Black church from the front row of Chicago’s Mount Hermon Missionary Baptist Church, where my grandfather Rev. L.H. Gore was pastor. I was mesmerized by his powerful preaching and the continuous response from the congregation. My enthusiasm was so apparent some members speculated, “That boy’s gonna be a preacher.”

Though my path led to careers in broadcasting and photography, over the years, I’ve been an active member in or worked for African Methodist Episcopal, Baptist, Lutheran, United Church of Christ, and United Methodist congregations in Buffalo, Boston, Buffalo, and New York City.

Worship in each church reflected unique denominational formats while embracing African-American music and preaching qualities. I received mentoring and spiritual guidance through these churches from an extraordinary cadre of theologians, pastors, activists, and laity.

From January 18 through March 2, 2023, a retrospective of my work entitled “Witnessing Faith” will be on view at The Interchurch Center at 61 Claremont Ave., New York. There will be images of Christian, Jews, and Muslim believers of African descent from around the US and the Caribbean in worship, celebration, education, and social action. These are among the exhibit photos. The Maroon festival in Jamaica, a profile of an African-American monk at St. Joseph’s Abbey in Massachusetts, and a preacher whose flock rides the “A” Train, indigenous worship in Haiti, The ordination of ministers at The Abyssinian Baptist Church Harlem and the ordination of priests in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the joy of a christening in the Bronx, a mass baptism in the Atlantic Ocean, and multilingual preaching in Curacao and Curtis Blow’s Hip Hop church.

“Witnessing Faith” will run from January 18-March 2, 2023. The open reception is from 5:30-7:30 on January 18, 2023, at 61 Claremont Ave. New York City. All are welcome.

Jennifer Roberts is the Co-Curator.

This exhibition is made possible by the generous support of the Interchurch Center. Paula Mayo is the President/ Executive Director.

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Witnessing Faith

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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valentine’s day all-star comedy show

bill bellamy • tommy davidson feb 11 adele givens • eddie griffin • smokey suarez

paw patrol live!

The Great Pirate Adventure Fri, Dec 30 @ 10AM, 2 & 6PM Sat, Dec 31 @ 10AM Bring the kids to see their favorite characters from Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol live onstage in The Great Pirate Adventure.

gregory porter Sat, Feb 18 @ 8PM Gregory Porter returns to NJPAC: “One of the most amazing singing voices you’ll hear on planet earth” (The Guardian). @NJPAC • 1.888.MY.NJPAC • njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561 One Center Street, Newark, NJ

stephanie mills & the whispers Fri, Jan 13 @ 8PM Welcome “Home” to GRAMMY® winning songstress Stephanie Mills and R&B supergroup The Whispers.

smokey robinson Sat, Mar 4 @ 8PM Acclaimed singer-songwriter and GRAMMY® Living Legend Smokey Robinson performs his Motown hits.

fred hersch & esperanza spalding Sun, Jan 29 @ 3 & 7PM Pianist Fred Hersch and vocalist esperanza spalding celebrate the release of their album Alive at the Village Vanguard.

jill scott Mar 27 @ 8PM GRAMMY® winning R&B powerhouse Jill Scott revisits her 2000 debut album Who is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1.

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.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Bed-Stuy Gateway BID Winter Wonderland vendor Keeshagaye Whitter at My Emollient

L-R Back Row- Wells Fargo Bill Stomp, Urban Design Forum Executive Director Daniel McPhee,Wells Fargo Sr. VP Krissy Moore, Wells Fargo VP Catherine Domenech, Moshood Model, Bed-Stuy Gateway BID Devonte Deshong, Buro Happold NYC John Sloan, Buro Happold NYC Trevor Reynolds. Front Row L-R: Wells Fargo Wanda Saez, Van Alen Deborah Marton, NYC Councilman Chi Osse, Bed-Stuy Gateway BID Executive Director Dale Charles, Bed-Stuy Restoration Corporation CEO Blondel Pinnick, US Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Bed-Stuy Gateway BID Board Chair Joyce Turner

L-R: NYC Councilman Chi Osse and Bed-Stuy Gateway BID Executive Director Dale Charles play Mr. & Mrs. Claus in Santa Hollow at the Winter Wonderland

Bed-Stuy Winter Wonderland

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n celebration of Small Business Saturday, Bed-Stuy sing-alongs with local houses of worship. Additional Gateway Business Improvement District (BID) hosted family friendly activities include pictures with Santa and its annual ribbon-cutting ceremony launching their Mrs. Claus, live music, and much more. “This holiday Winter Wonderland Holiday Marketplace. On hand for season, Wells Fargo is thrilled to continue our support the festivities were US Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, NY of the Bed-Stuy Gateway BID, the Van Alen Institute, and the Urban Design Forum in their efforts to State Assemblywoman Stefani Zinerman; provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs NYC Councilman Chi Osse, BID Chair and small businesses,” said Wells Fargo New Joyce Turner, BID Vice Chairperson Marcia York Community Relations Vice President Melendez, and Brooklyn Chamber of Catherine Domenech. “Brooklyn is powered Commerce CEO Randy Peers. Bed-Stuy by small businesses, and we’re committed to Gateway BID Executive Director Dale helping them succeed financially.”

Charles shared her excitement about a new evergreen tradition for the community Additional supporting partners include saying, “This couldn’t be possible without Con Edison, TD Bank, Van Alen Institute, the guidance and generous support of Urban Design Forum, Buro Happold, Dash Wells Fargo.”

Marshall, Moody Nolan, Fried Frank, Gretel, In partnership with Wells Fargo, the Block by Block, New York City Department shop-small initiative will increase footof Transportation, and Bedford Stuyvesant traffic while offering crafters, creatives, Vendor Julia File at JJ & X Fashion Restoration Corporation. and small business owners a viable platform to showcase The Bed-Stuy Gateway BID proudly stands as one of and sell their goods and services. Winter Wonderland is Brooklyn’s most prominent commercial and cultural a collaboration with Neighborhoods Now, the initiative focal points. Since 2009, the agency has partnered with from the Urban Design Forum and Van Alen Institute to neighbors and stakeholders to support the community support local organizations leading their communities’ through economic development and promote its rich pandemic recovery. history of cultural diversity. Through a wide array of This year, BID programming will include Community programs and services, the Bed-Stuy Gateway BID is Thursdays, dedicated to non-profit organizations; and committed to seeing the community thrive and blossom Caroling in the Plaza on Fridays, featuring yuletide into a popular destination for all things Brooklyn. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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L-R: First Lady Lorraine Eatman, Bishop Charles D. Eatman Sr. and Keisha Sutton-James Deputy Borough President of Manhattan

The Mt. Pleasant Community Baptist Church Choir Photos by: Seitu Oronde

L-R: Bishop Charles D. Eatman Sr. and

L-R: Carter Community AME Church Pastor Rev. Dr. Kevin Miller and Bishop Eatman

Bishop Eatman’s 41st Pastoral Anniversary

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he congregation of Mt. Pleasant Community Baptist Church in Harlem gathered at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture on Sunday November 20, 2022. It was the per fect setting with Black history on display and in their midst. The grand event, the 41st pastoral anniversary of Bishop Charles D. Eatman Sr. and First Lady Lorraine Eatman, marked another historic milestone for Mt. Pleasant, a glorious place of worship, and for its shepherds.

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Bishop Eatman’s pastoral service is sure to be chronicled as one filled with inspiration to the ministry and the people of the community. Proclamations from politicians, church members, visiting churches, parents of the student body (MPCAI), family, and friends spoke of the richness and power of God’s great love for the pastor and his sharing of His love with the people of the community. One attendee who knew Bishop Eatman as a young man remarked, “He always had a heart for the community and I’ve known him for over 60 years.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Giving Thanks in Harlem Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater New York and Vicinity Photos by: Bruce Moore

Officers and members of the Baptist Ministers Conference

L-R: BMCGNY President Rev. Geraldine L. Harris, Bethlehem Baptist Church Brooklyn Senior Pastor Rev. Larry Camp, 2nd Vice President Rev. Shepherd Lee

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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rder of the Day Preacher Senior Pastor Rev. Larry Camp of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Brooklyn delivered the Thanksgiving message of hope and gratitude to the officers and members of The Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater New York & Vicinity (BMCGNY) on November 21, 2022.

The conference meets monthly at the Convent Avenue Baptist Church, 420 West 145th Street, New York, NY 10031.

The pastors and ministers meet to promote amity and good fellowship among its members, initiate study and interest in the cause of Christianity, deepen the spirit of devotion, and contribute in every way possible to the advancement of the Kingdom of Christ.

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

December 2022

Vol. 22 No. 10

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 & Government Affairs Wayne Smith

The Positive Community Corp.

133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation.

All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive Community TM its management or staff. The Positive Community TM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

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The Last Word

BY R.L. WITTER

I’VE GOT NOTHIN’ BUT LOVE FOR YOU, AND THAT’S FINE

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eeing gas prices drop has been a blessing. It’s not just the price of gasoline that skyrocketed. Rent, mortgage rates, retail, travel, and grocery prices steadily climbed as well. While we had much to be grateful for at Thanksgiving, the price of food was alarming. We usually host a large group for the holiday, but scaled back to a maximum of 10 people since 2020 and COVID-19. And we weren’t mad at the family members who traveled out of town this year.

Still, with just two guests our dinner for four cost nearly as much as our monthly food budget in 2021.

I was puzzled as people seemed to treat Black Friday and Cyber Monday as though inflation hasn’t reached a 40-year high. It reminded me of how so many people seem to behave as though COVID-19 isn’t still a factor and the numbers aren’t once again on the rise.

Hubby and I have new expenses related to our precious puppy to consider like food, veterinary visits, shots, and other essentials (a crate, bed, harness, leash, carrier, etc.).

We also planned to finally resume our annual road trip to a quiet, snow covered town each December after a two-year suspension due to the pandemic. My mind reverted to a 1990s movie where characters repeated the phrase, “Mo’ money, mo’ money, mo’ money!”

Once again there was some scaling back and downsizing. We know the winter holidays are not about the presents and gifts, but rather the gift of presence. Sure, we’d love to shower folks with lavish and impressive gifts, but not to our own financial detriment. We wanted to find a way

The Positive Community December Issue 2022

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to gift everyone without overextending ourselves.

I was blessed to come across 2nd Corinthians 8:12: “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.”

My mother instilled in us that kindness and love are wonderful gifts that bless the recipient mightily without costing the giver a single penny. Of course, we always strive to be kind, generous, and loving, but we can certainly do more.

So perhaps loved ones will receive homemade cookies or help removing and packing their holiday decorations instead of a material gift. Maybe I’ll crochet a hat or scarf instead of buying them one; or gift a coffee date, phone call, or video conference so we can catch up with one another.

Whatever they receive, I hope it will be appreciated as it will have come from our hearts. Burt Bacharach famously wrote, “What the word needs now/Is love, sweet love/It’s the only thing/That there’s just too little of.”

We’ll add ours to the pile and pray it brings comfort and joy to those around us.

As Heavy D once rapped, “I got nuttin’ but love for you, Baby.” Ooh, and a mask and some sanitizer. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy New Year, and blessings and love to all! www.thepositivecommunity.com

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