April 2013 by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

April 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Education Issue Saving Souls and Minds: Churches’ Role in Founding HBCUs The Emancipation of Henry Washington: The Slave George Washington Didn’t Get to Free

HOWARD ALUMNI RECALL BROTHERHOOD IN NEW BOOK

$2.95

OFFICE OF BLACK MINISTRY ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, C.F.C., Director

"...To remember what God has done for and continues to do for me, for us; to remember the road we have travelled; this is what opens our hearts to hope for the future. May we learn to remember everything that God has done in our lives...May he help us to feel his presence as the one who is alive and at work in our midst. And may he teach us each day, not to look among the dead for the Living One. Amen." from the Homily of Pope Francis The Easter Vigil ~ Vatican Basilica 30 March, 2013

STATEMENT FROM BLACK CATHOLIC COMMUNITY We, the Black Catholic Community of the Archdiocese of New York, pledge to you, Your Holiness Pope Francis, our Fervent Prayers and Sincere Support as you begin your ministry of leadership and service in the Universal Church, as the Successor of St. Peter and the Servant of the Servants of God. May our Loving God grant you an abundance of grace and blessing throughout your days! SUPPORT LISTING Office of Black Ministry Commission & Committees Venerable Pierre Toussaint Guild • Pierre Toussaint Scholars College Pierre Toussaint ~ Sassier, Haiti National Black Catholic Apostolate for Life • Solid Ground Franciscan Ministry Franciscan Handmaids of the Most Pure Heart of Mary Churches, Schools & Other Institutions of the Catholic Vicariate of Central Harlem St. Martin de Porres Societies of Manhattan & the Bronx OBM Southern Westchester Committee Ghanaian Catholic Community of Christ the King & St. Margaret Mary, Bronx Kidane Meheret Ge'ez Rite, Eritrean Catholic Community at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Manhattan French-speaking African Catholic Community St. Augustine-Our Lady of Victory Church Community, Bronx • St. Joseph Church, Spring Valley

April 2013

CONTENTS SECTIONS MONEY ............................................16

EDUCATION......................................25 HEALTH............................................57 CULTURE..........................................66

COVER STORY HOWARD ALUMNI RECALL BROTHERHOOD IN NEW BOOK

Features The Importance of Updating Software. . . . . . 16 Help for Homeowners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Do Vouchers and Takeovers Improve Schools?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Slave Washington Didn’t Free . . . . . . . . 32 HBCUs: Saving Souls and Minds . . . . . . . . . 54

&also inside Publisher’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 On Call. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Etiquette Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

COGIC Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Women of Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Stop the Funeral. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Gospel Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

J.W. Ford, Book Cover Layout & Design

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GREAT

R C OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.00 each (one-third of the cover price) or support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com

Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor

Evening Star B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Washington Lundy, Pastor

Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. David Hampton, Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ. Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor

St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Kippie C. Brown, Pastor

Mt. Calvary United Methodist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Tisha M. Jermin Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor

First AME Zion Church, Brooklyn, NY Dr. Darran H. Mitchell, Pastor

Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor

Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor

First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor

Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor

Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor

First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor

Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor

Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Dr. Gadson L. Graham

Greater Faith Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA Rev. Larry L. Marcus

Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor

Greater Friendship Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. John Teabout, Pastor

Childs Memorial COGIC, Harlem, NY Bishop Norman N. Quick, Pastor

Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor

Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor

Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor

Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Drek E. Broomes, President & CEO

St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper

It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor

St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor

Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor

Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor

Ebenezer B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Jovan Troy Davis, M.Div.

Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor

Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor

Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, Harlem Rev. Dr. Gregory Robeson Smith, Pastor

Empire Missionary B.C., Convention NY Rev. Dr. Ronald Grant, President

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. Vernon Walton, Pastor

New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor

St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor

The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor

Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Zion Hill B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. Douglass L. Williams, III, Pastor

Businesses & Organizations 125th St. BID African American Heritage Parade American Diabetes Association American Heart Association, Northern, NJ Brown Executive Realty LLC, Morristown, NJ City National Bank Essex County College, NJ Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Medgar Evers College Mildred Crump, Newark City Council NAACP New Jersey* NAACP, NY State Conference* New Brunswick Theological Seminary New Jersey Performing Arts Center New York Theological Seminary New York Urban League Newark School of Theology Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Schomburg Center The College of New Rochelle United Way of Essex and West Hudson WBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. WKMB-1070AM

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the only one that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

ADRIAN COUNCIL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

On Leadership, Cultural Literacy and the Jubilee Calendar Excited about Our Future—Today! he Great Countdown to Freedom Commemorative Calendar of the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, We’ve Come this Far by Faith, is a precious document. It is not a calendar in the traditional sense—NOT TO SIMPLY BE HUNG ON THE WALL. In fact, this booklet is a coffee table item to be studied and discussed. It’s a learning tool for children and adults alike. The calendar provides insight into our American story and is a cultural curriculum. The photos are beautiful, equally matched by inspired words of truth, encouragement and comfort! From the cover artwork painting depicting Barack Obama in prayer, to the introductory statements and clergy quotes, important history facts and dates and the cultural narrative on the back cover, it is a commemorative calendar that every family in America should own!

A Vision On this day, fifty years ago, plans were already underway to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with a March on Washington. On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King’s speech had a dual purpose: • He addressed the business of the past 100 years by appealing for America to make good on “the check that the Negro could not cash,” the promise of freedom denied, marked “insufficient funds.” • He ended his speech with a vision for America’s future, the “beloved community,” with the refrain: “I Have a Dream” and “Let Freedom Ring.” Fifty years later, in 2013, that vision is manifest as President Barak Obama entered into his 2nd term in

8 The Positive Community

April 2013

office. Today, an African American family—America’s First Family—resides at the White House. The Grand Jubilee Calendar featuring the cultural narrative stands on its own as a quality commemorative product—a cultural and spiritual marker for this important year. So far, the calendar is all we have as a keepsake of this extraordinary time. The calendar speaks to the soul and points the way forward. No African American household or family should be without one. Knowledge and Wisdom In October 2012, The Positive Community and the Grand Jubilee Committee of New Jersey launched a special Watch Night Initiative. On December 31, Watch Night, hundreds of churches of all denominations—from Buffalo, New York, to Bridgeton, New Jersey and beyond—welcomed in the New Year, the 150th anniversary of the Great Emancipation—dawn of a new age—as united souls. That night witnessed young people reading the cultural narrative as part of an historic exercise in spiritual and cultural unity among congregations. Our objective is to keep the flame of emancipation and freedom burning brightly in our hearts throughout this commemorative year and in the years to come! Your $20.00 investment in this calendar will yield compounded interest ten thousand-fold if we were to learn the cultural narrative ourselves and then teach it to our children. Knowledge and wisdom—cultural literacy (awareness of who we are and whose we are)—release a reservoir of potentials and possibilities. It will serve as an anchor in these perilous storms of change, securing an enduring, prosperous, healthy future. www.thepositivecommunity.com

What clergy leader would deny his or her congregation the benefit of the calendar’s life-affirming message at such a time as this? What Christian educator or teacher would say “no” to the knowledge and ideas expressed within these papers? Is there a wise and loving parent who would knowingly deny their child access to a source of self-knowledge, self-awareness and self-respect?

On that Sunday, preaching from Matthew 21:12, Pastor Soaries’ sermon took dead aim at the very heart of the crisis: Our “temple” of spirituality and culture must be cleansed . . . Why then, did Jesus get so angry? Because, culturally speaking, “God don’t like ugly!” Together, let us now be about the business of creating our own future!!

Spirituality and Culture In March, I was invited to introduce the commemorative calendar during three Palm Sunday services at First Baptist Church at Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, New Jersey, where Rev. Deforest B. Soaries is senior pastor (see page 81). It was an absolutely wonderful experience that also affirmed the course of our mission: The people will enthusiastically support a vision of a future beyond their own lifetime; they are willing to make a faith investment towards the success of descendants whom they will never know. We are much encouraged to share this vision of hope and opportunity with congregations everywhere! In recent years, African Americans have allowed their own ethnic identity and the value of their contributions to become obscured and marginalized. Today’s market forces continue without mercy or regard, to exploit this negative trend. The popular culture environment, especially the music, is exacting a heavy toll on the souls of our children. Now, more than ever, we must contend with the primary issue of our time: cultural leadership, cultural literacy and cultural democracy.

A Patriotic Season On another note, as chair of the Grand Jubilee Committee, a group of committed volunteers, we are pleased to announce plans for a November 16th concert and gala to commemorate the Great Emancipation. The Positive Community and The Star Ledger, New Jersey’s leading newspaper are joining forces to do well by doing good. This event will raise funds to support communitybased cultural literacy projects and programs. The performances and gala will take place at Newark Symphony Hall’s historic Sarah Vaughn Concert Hall and the Terrace Ballroom. Our team is committed to producing America’s #1 Emancipation commemorative celebration, under the theme: Dawn of a New Age. As with the Grand Jubilee Calendar, the Grand Jubilee Concert and the “Classic Black” Gala will be an elegant, positive experience for all. Its impact will be fondly remembered, resonating far beyond our years! In this patriotic season, let's get excited about our own future, America's future—today! Order your calendars for your family, friends, church, school, business or organization—now!

Twins Wendy and Wanda Scott, members of the Hospitality Ministry, First Baptist at Lincoln Gardens

www.thepositivecommunity.com

April 2013 The Positive Community

iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

FFoRDaBle BeneFitS? Then this is a Book oF Revelation.

Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement ts for your employees is well within your reach. n fact, it’s quite affordable. ncluding social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too. o learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it t: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling. *Source: 2010 Retirement Income Study. Based on 15+ years of participation.

Empire Baptist Missionary Convention of New York, Inc. and its Auxiliaries The Reverend Ronald Grant Convention President

Wednesday, May 8 – Friday, May 10, 2013 Guest Seminarian Reverend Dr. Frank Ray Pastor New Salem Baptist Church - Memphis, TN    Hotel Headquarters

Holiday Inn Turf | 205 Wolf Road | Albany, NY

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A New Vision, A New Direction, A Renewed Hope FFoRDaBle BeneFitS? iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

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Philippians 3: 13-14

The Reverend Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr. Vice President at Large

Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement enefits for your employees is well within your reach. In fact, it’s quite affordable. Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 6%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too. To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it ow at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling. *Source: 2010 Retirement Income Study. Based on 15+ years of participation.

The Reverend Elgin Joseph Taylor, Sr. General Recording Secretary

Convenor

Sponsoring Theological Schools and Universities • • • • • • •

New York Theological SemiNarY

•

The Interchurch Center

• •

475 Riverside Drive (entrance at 120th and Claremont Ave.) New York, NY 10115 Conference Tracks & Workshops Peacemaking and: • violence against women and children • violence against marginalized communities • state sanctioned violence • religions of the world • the economy and ecology Speakers include:

Dr. Sakena Yacoobi, Afghan Learning Institute Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. Emory University Rev. Dr. Susan Thistlethwaite, Chicago Theological Seminary Rabbi Justus Baird, Auburn Theological Seminary Dr. James Quilligan, Centre for Global Negotiations

Dr. Stephen Eric Bronner, Rutgers University

Auburn Theological Seminary Boston University School of Theology Drew University Theological School Hartford Seminary The Jewish Theological Seminary Union Theological Seminary in New York Center for the Study of Genocide, Conflict Resolution, and Human Rights at Rutgers University, Newark Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University Candler School of Theology, Emory University University of Rhode Island, Center for Nonviolence & Peace Studies Sponsoring Faith-Based and Non-Profit Organizations

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Communities of Shalom (United Methodist Church) Exodus Transitional Community GreenFaith Haki Yetu House of Peace, Inc. Intersections International (Collegiate Churches of New York) The Institute for Diasporan African Culture The Network for Human Understanding New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care Compassion, Peace and Justice Ministry, Presbyterian Mission Agency, Presbyterian Church, USA The Riverside Church in New York Stony Point Conference Center Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding The United States Institute of Peace

Connect Pax Christi U.S. Academics for Peace

Conference made possible with support from the Henry Luce Foundation

Registration and schedule: http://peacemaking.nyts.edu

REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

Rev. Nance is pastor of The Church by the Side of the Road in Passaic, NJ. She is also a radio talk show host and documentary filmmaker.

LISTEN TO THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY HOUR ON WKMB 1070 AM HARVEST RADIO, MONDAYS, 1:30–2:30 P.M. WITH HOST THERESA NANCE.

Excited About United Clayton heads new Baptist organization in New Jersey ’m excited about United.” That animated phrase came from none other than the Rev. Kenneth Darryl Clayton, senior pastor of the St. Luke Baptist Church in the city of Paterson. Clayton was referring to his becoming president of the recently formed United Missionary Baptist Convention of New Jersey (UMBC). Rev. Kenneth The Rev. Robert Curry is Darryl Clayton first vice president, Rev. Vernon Walton is second vice president and the Rev. Marilyn Harris is third vice president. Clayton and his UMBC colleagues, in no time at all since their formation earlier this year, have planned a two-day Institute on Church Development at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack. Rev. Gregory Jackson is the pastor there. This is all very exciting for yours truly as well. I’ve known Clayton since he was a young man working his way through college at Friendly’s. Today he pastors one of the most progressive churches in the Passaic County area. Let me go back just a tad. He made his profession of faith at a young age coming under the tutelage of the Rev. Calvin McKinney, senior pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church in the city of Garfield. It was in 1990 to be exact, according to a press release. In 1991, he was added to the church staff as minister of Christian Education and assistant to the pastor. He became senior pastor at St. Luke after the death of Rev. Dr. A.M. Tyler. He is the sixth pastor to serve this large congregation and the youngest.

“I

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His credentials are impressive, to say the least. In 1994, he was selected to serve as the special assistant to the editor of the National Baptist Voice, the official organ of the 8 million membership of the National Baptist Convention. No one can deny that the church has grown by leaps and bounds since Clayton took over the reins. He has put together a full-time staff to accommodate the membership, houses Narcotics Anonymous meetings at the church, supports a food and clothing pantry and oversees a house for women recently released from penal institutions. If that weren’t enough, he also is president of the local chapter of the NAACP. The kid, and I use that term affectionately, is phenomenal. Recently, his church and congregants welcomed Gov. Christie to St. Luke to field questions from the community regarding the dismal state of financial affairs, especially in the Silk City and to discuss better ways to enhance the district school system. At any given time, you can catch various and sundry clerics from across the country trekking their way to the popular church for any occasion. Clayton’s latest endeavor, along with other members of the UMBC, is to formulate a workable constitution for the organization and also implement term limits. He said he hoped within five years the organization would be able to support troubled churches and equip churches to better reflect the needs of our days and times. That’s a tall order. But if I know him and the others involved with this fledgling group, I know the task is not only doable but probably will be the model for other organizations. And I cannot forget how proud he is of his twins, Kenneth and Kendrik. Or, perhaps it’s the other way around. I don’t know who the eldest is. No matter. Their father is living the American dream and his offspring hopefully will benefit from the path he made before them. Bravo, Clayton! April 2013 The Positive Community

Why iReform? iReform aims to harness Newark’s rich history of parent activism and advocacy through our unprecedented Parent Academy model.

One Community One Focus

iReform utilizes the Parent Academy as a training engagement forum to create parent led initiatives that are vital to serving the educational needs of Newark’s families and students ________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ________________________________

Session 1: Session 2: Sessions 3 & 4: Session 5: Session 6:

Session 7: Session 8: Session 9: Session 10: Session 11:

Session 12: Session 13: Session 14:

Introduction to iReform and Setting Your Vision for Community Engagement Introduction to Public Education: The Policies and Practices that Govern the System Education in the City of Newark Identifying the Myths and Truths about Education and Crafting Our Approach How to Substantially Improve Outcomes for Newark’s Children by Successfully Navigating the Education Landscape Leveraging Our Strengths to Affect Change through Community Engagement The Power of the Written Word Peer Exchange and Perfecting our Written Craft Leading With My Voice Turning Our Written Words Into Powerful Action & Deliberate Engagement: Preparing to Mobilize the Community around Improving Schools Preparing to Facilitate: How We Engage the Community Around Education Practicum: Executing the iReform Community Engagement Model Mobilizing Our Mission – Why iReform is My Reform

iReform, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, iReform is an education focused organization whose mission is to mobilize parents, students, and community stakeholders to achieve substantial, sustainable improvement of student outcomes for Newark schoolchildren. iReform seeks to transform Newark’s schools into high-quality institutions that effectively educate children by equipping families with resources to advocate for policy and implementation changes that will lead to substantial, sustainable improvement in student outcomes for all Newark schoolchildren.

iReform is committed to improving education for all children in the City of Newark. iReform welcomes the opportunity to meet with parents, schools, and community organizations about partnering for the success of our schools.

________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ________________________________

iReform’s only agenda is improving student outcomes. Our work is accomplished through convening parents and community stakeholders to build public support to sustain public accountability in ensuring that all schools educate all children so they’ll be prepared to succeed.

Partnering with the Community to Improve Schools in Newark

One Gateway Center, Floor 3 Newark, NJ 07102 Phone (973) 596-4760  Fax (973) 596-4767 www.ireformeducation.com

Creating a civic context that produces and sustains policy changes that will drive substantial long-term gains in student achievement Any Newark resident who is a parent or primary caregiver of a student enrolled in a K-12 school in the City of Newark may participate. To apply for the Consectetur adipiscing elit, set eiusmod tempor iReform Parent Academy and to learn more about incidunt et labore et dolore magna aliquam. Ut our work in communities throughout Newark, enim ad minim veniam, nostrud exerc. Irure Please visitquis our website

dolor in reprehend incididunt ut. www.ireformeducation.com

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April 15th – 17th | 7:00pm nightly

Spring Revival! Featuring guest preacher,

2013

Rev. Dr. Lance Watson,

Senior Pastor – St. Paul Baptist Church, Richmond, VA Rev. David K. Brawley, Lead Pastor 859 Hendrix Street, Brooklyn, NY 11207 (718)257-1300 | Fax (718)257-2988 www.spcbc.com | info@spcbc.com

The Positive Community April 2013

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Relationship Matters L–R: Rev. Lawrence E. Aker III and First Lady Cynthia Aker of Cornerstone B.C., Brooklyn speak about marriage

Rev. Olivia Stanard, executive minister, Community B.C. of Englewood (r) speaks with attendee L–R: Conference speakers Rev. Dr. James Williamson and Rev. Carol Patterson, associate minister, Calvary B.C., Morristown, NJ L–R: Convent Avenue Executive Minister Rev. James Logan and Mrs. Virginia Logan with Apostle Nathan Byrd, senior pastor of The Worship Center of St. Albans, Queens

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L–R: The Akers with Rev. Dr. Jessie T. Williams, Jr., senior pastor and First Lady Gelaine Williams of Convent Avenue B.C.

onvent Baptist Church recently hosted its 6th Annual Enrichment Conference: Relationships Matter. Under the theme: Walking in Authority; Being Who God Says We Are! The focus was on how to achieve maximum effectiveness in family, professional and ministry relationships. The March 23-24 well attended event, featured dynamic speakers and counselors from throughout the region. Photos: Wali Amin Muhammad

April 2013 The Positive Community

Money Business, Money & work

Technology Tips to Save $$$$ Support is ending for Windows XP

By Cecil Cates

indows XP is the most commonly used PC operating system in the world today. This is despite the fact that Windows XP was first released in 2001, which was eons ago for technology. The bad news is that anyone with a computer running Windows XP needs to plan, now â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not later â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to replace XP with a newer operating system. Let's explore why that is the case, and why there is some good news to be found in the process.

higher than Windows 7 computers. XP is simply too antiquated to combat modern-day hackers and virus writers. And if you have been reading my QuickTips, you will remember that the viruses that you should be concerned about are those that you do not know you have. They are stealing your sensitive data, and they make your computer run more slowly by using your computer as a spam relay, or to disseminate pornography or other illicit materials.

Tech support being phased out In April 2009 (yes, four years ago), Microsoft moved Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) from "Mainstream Support" to "Extended Support." This means that Microsoft will continue to provide regular security updates, but technical support, warranty claims and design changes are no longer being offered. Also note that versions older than XP SP3, such as XP SP2, have reached "end of life" and are no longer supported. More significantly, in April 8, 2014, Windows XP SP3 will reach "end of life." That means there won't be any more fixes, technical support, and, most importantly, security patches. You cannot safely maintain a PC without security patches. Also, the applications that are essential to run your business will be ending support for Windows XP versions. Most anti-virus software vendors will no longer offer signatures for new viruses for Windows XP.

Two upgrade choices There are two primary paths to upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7 or Windows 8. Upgrade your current PCs to Windows 7 or Windows 8, or purchase new computers with Windows 7 or Windows 8 pre-installed. Upgrading your PC makes sense if your computer is one or two years old. Many older PCs are simply not powerful enough to run Windows 7 or Windows 8, and, even if they are, the investment to upgrade may exceed the value of the computer. After five years, the hardware is much more likely to experience a mechanical failure. Certainly, for computers that are at least four years old, it is more cost-effective to replace them with new computers that have Windows 7 or Windows 8 pre-installed. The good news is that Windows 7 and Windows 8 come with many great new features. In my next column, I will describe some of the more popular new features that can make your computing life easier and/or more efficient.

Don't wait until end of 2013 The Gartner Group and other IT industry experts recommend that you plan to be off Windows XP by the end of 2013. But, in my mind, there is a risk to waiting even that long. In the first half of 2010, Windows XP SP3 computers were infected at a rate almost five times

The Positive Community April 2013

Cecil Cates of CMIT Solutions specializes in supporting computers, servers, and networks for small- and mediumsize businesses 973-325-3663, ccates@cmitsolutions.com, or www.cmitsolutions.com/nunioncounty. www.thepositivecommunity.com

iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

aFFoRDaBle BeneFitS? Then this is a Book oF Revelation. Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement benefits for your employees is well within your reach. In fact, it’s quite affordable. Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 86%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too. To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it now at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling. *Source: 2010 Retirement Income Study. Based on 15+ years of participation.

MONEY Help for Struggling Homeowners by Diane Johnson

ousing plays a central role in the lives of African Americans. It is a source of stability and one of the building blocks with which we forge neighborhoods, put down roots and build the communities that are the engines of our economic growth. It has also become a reliable predictor of long-term health, education, and employment outcomes. As Director of the Newark Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, I’m encouraged to see signs that the economy is improving as we fight back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. However, many thousands of New Jersey and New York homeowners continue to be at risk of foreclosure or are otherwise struggling with their monthly mortgage payments. African American families have been particularly hardhit by the housing crisis, with nearly 10 percent of African American borrowers who took out loans between 2004 and 2008 having lost their homes to foreclosure. According to the Center for Responsible Lending, African American and Latino homeowners are almost twice as likely to have gone into foreclosure as other populations. That’s why I’d like to tell you about some of the tools that are available to help homeowners and stabilize hard-hit neighborhoods and home values. HUD has additional tools to assist homeowners whose properties were damaged or destroyed due to Hurricane Sandy. First, free advice from a housing expert is available for families struggling with their mortgage payments. HUD-approved housing counselors work with families and with mortgage companies on behalf of homeowners, and their expertise is available for free. As we know, during difficult economic times, foreclosure can impact even hard working Americans who play by the rules. To

The Positive Community April 2013

find a housing counseling agency in your area, you can call (800) 569-4287, or you can search on line by visiting www.hud.gov/findacounselor. Since President Obama took office, HUD-approved housing counselors have helped over 8 million families. Unfortunately, unscrupulous lenders and mortgage brokers continue to prey on unsuspecting and trustworthy homeowners who are desperate to save their homes. That is why HUD is pleased to launch the “Know It, Avoid It, Report It” campaign in New Jersey and New York. HUD and our counseling agencies are working together to make a concerted effort to warn people about mortgage modification scams and other potential scams that can inflict real harm on troubled homeowners. I encourage homeowners to call 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) or visit www.hud.gov/preventloanscams to get the facts about mortgage fraud, and report suspected scammers. The Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act) prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental and financing of dwellings based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Victims of housing discrimination can file a complaint by calling HUD’s Fair Housing hotline at 1-800-496-4294, TTY 212-264-0927. Since Hurricane Sandy struck New Jersey and New York, HUD granted a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured home mortgages for homeowners whose properties were damaged or destroyed due to the storm. HUD has recently extended these protections for another 90 days. FHA has also suspended evictions of persons from properties secured by FHA mortgages in affected counties through the end of April. Protections against foreclosure actions have also been extended through April 30, www.thepositivecommunity.com

2013 for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac borrowers. In addition, homeowners impacted by Hurricane Sandy may be eligible for forbearance, loan modifications or waived late payment charges. If you have questions on the moratorium on foreclosures or any other servicing provisions, you can call HUD’s National Servicing Center at (877) 622-8525, or contact a HUD-approved housing counselor (see above). The Making Home Affordable © (MHA) Program is a critical part of the Obama Administration's broad strategy to help homeowners avoid foreclosure, stabilize the country's housing market, and improve the nation's economy. Homeowners can lower their monthly mortgage payments and get into more stable loans at today's low rates. And for those homeowners for whom homeownership is no longer affordable or desirable, the program can provide a way out which avoids foreclosure. Additionally, in an effort to be responsive to the needs of today's homeowners, there are also options for unemployed homeowners and homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth. To learn more about available programs, go to www.makinghomeaffordable.gov or contact a HUDapproved housing counselor. The Administration’s recent $25 billion settlement with 49 state attorneys general and the five largest mortgage servicers is forcing these banks to help many homeowners holding conventional loans. The settlement is forcing the mortgage servicers to reduce the size of unaffordable loans, refinance loans for “underwater” homeowners, and pay billions of dollars to states and consumers to provide other forms of relief. Given the ramped-up operations banks are now undertaking, I strongly encourage distressed homeowners to contact their lenders and loan servicers directly to inquire about foreclosure prevention options that are available. HUD also recently announced changes to its FHA loss mitigation options to assist a greater number of qualified, distressed homeowners in retaining their homes. A Faith Leaders’ Breakfast will be held in Essex County on Friday, April 12th, and will focus on programs to prevent foreclosures and mortgage scams. For more information, and to register for the event, contact Audrey Washington, Coordinator, Newark/Essex Foreclosure Taskforce, at washingtona@ci.newark.nj.us or (973) 733-4771. Obviously, none of these tools, by themselves, are going to fix the nation’s mortgage problems overnight. But by working together in partnership with local nonprofit and faith-based organizations, we at HUD are committed to ensure that every family gets a shot to hold on to the American Dream of homeownership. Diane Johnson is the Field Office Director of HUD’s Newark, NJ Office. www.thepositivecommunity.com

was startled to read the following data from Sun Life Financial. Two out of ten people will experience a disability lasting one year or more during their professional careers. Smart Money Magazine reports that one in seven workers will be disabled for more than five years. While many people think that disabilities are typically caused by freak accidents, the majority of long-term absences are actually due to illnesses, such as cancer and heart disease. Here is the reality - traumatic events will occur. We must be financially prepared for the unexpected. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated at 39 years old. Just before his death, he signed insurance documents, which he had avoided for years. As a result, his widow, Coretta Scott King, received a check every month until the day she died 38 years later. Remember this, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Here are items of immediate importance. Secure long-term disability insurance to replace all or a portion of your income if you are unable to work because of illness or injury. Check into coverage through your employer first, then check with a trusted outside provider. Verify that your life, home, and auto insurance policies are current and sufficient for the needs of your family. Meet with an attorney to draft your will, health care proxy and power of attorney, and look into identify theft protection. Pursue these items immediately. This weekend, read and study Proverbs 13:22 and pray for strength to prepare for the unexpected. God bless, DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.

April 2013 The Positive Community

Friday, May 3, 2013, 6:00PM Join Us in Honoring

Robert L. Bowser

Mayor, City of East Orange

The Wilshire Grand Hotel

350 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange To run a congratulatory ad or to purchase tickets for the Ball of the Oranges, please call 973-266-2925.

Quality care you can trust. Compassion you can count on.

CITY UNIVERSITY NEW YORK CAREER OPPORTUNITY THETHE CITY UNIVERSITY OF OF NEW YORK CAREER OPPORTUNITY Medgar Evers College Medgar Evers College

President of Medgar Evers College Title:Title: President of Medgar Evers College Location/Department: Office of the President Location/Department: Office of the President Position Detail: Executive Senior Administrative Position Detail: Executive andand Senior Administrative Status: Exempt FLSAFLSA Status: Exempt Compensation: Executive Compensation competitive commensurate qualifications experience Compensation: Executive Compensation Plan;Plan; competitive andand commensurate withwith qualifications andand experience www.mec.cuny.edu more information about college WebWeb SiteSite VisitVisit www.mec.cuny.edu forfor more information about thethe college Notice Number: EA 21074 Notice Number: EA 21074 Closing Date: Open filled; submission of applications is encouraged April 2013 Closing Date: Open untiluntil filled; submission of applications is encouraged by by April 15, 15, 2013 POSITION DESCRIPTION DUTIES POSITION DESCRIPTION ANDAND DUTIES Board of Trustees of The University of New Medgar TheThe Board of Trustees of The CityCity University of New YorkYork andand the the Medgar Evers College Presidential Search Committee invite nominations Evers College Presidential Search Committee invite nominations andand applications for the position of President of Medgar Evers College. applications for the position of President of Medgar Evers College. TheThe President serves as the academic administrative officer of the President serves as the chiefchief academic andand administrative officer of the college, reporting to the University’s Chancellor working within policy college, reporting to the University’s Chancellor andand working within policy set set by the University’s Board of Trustees. by the University’s Board of Trustees. Chancellor College a dynamic, visionary leader, noted TheThe Chancellor andand the the College seekseek a dynamic, visionary leader, noted for for personal professional integrity a demonstrated commitment personal andand professional integrity andand a demonstrated commitment to to economic social justice, to inspire students, faculty, economic andand social justice, to inspire students, workwork wellwell withwith the the faculty, engage alumni/ae, community, guide institution to even engage alumni/ae, workwork withwith the the community, andand guide the the institution to even greater heights. position is available onbefore or before 1, 2013. greater heights. TheThe position is available on or JulyJuly 1, 2013. Established in 1970 named for martyred rights leader Medgar Wiley Established in 1970 andand named for martyred civilcivil rights leader Medgar Wiley Evers, Medgar Evers College provides Central Brooklyn community Evers, Medgar Evers College provides the the Central Brooklyn community andand

beyond high-quality, professional, career-oriented undergraduate beyond withwith high-quality, professional, career-oriented undergraduate degree programs in conjunction a liberal education. Medgar Evers degree programs in conjunction withwith a liberal artsarts education. Medgar Evers a distinguished dedicated faculty alumni/ae. College hashas a distinguished andand dedicated faculty andand alumni/ae. TheThe College is is committed to providing access, facilitating learning, ensuring committed to providing access, facilitating learning, andand ensuring the the success its students in the pursuit of their educational, career, success of itsofstudents in the pursuit of their educational, career, andand personal goals. College full-time faculty members. Student personal goals. TheThe College hashas 173173 full-time faculty members. Student enrollment in spring is 6,690. enrollment in spring 20132013 is 6,690. Medgar Evers College's current operating budget is $53 million, which Medgar Evers College's current operating budget is $53 million, which is is funded through State appropriations student funded through NewNew YorkYork State andand CityCity tax tax levylevy appropriations andand student tuition. Funding for sponsored research exceeded $8 million in 2012. tuition. Funding for sponsored research exceeded $8 million in 2012. Recent capital projects include 44,950-square-foot School of Business Recent capital projects include the the 44,950-square-foot School of Business Student Services Building 194,000-square-foot academic andand Student Services Building andand the the 194,000-square-foot academic building is home to the School of Science, Health Technology. building thatthat is home to the School of Science, Health andand Technology.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Preferred Qualifications: Preferred Qualifications: Earned doctorate a regionally accredited institution, college-level teaching experience, a record of scholarly achievement and/or professional   Earned doctorate fromfrom a regionally accredited institution, college-level teaching experience, andand a record of scholarly achievement and/or professional distinction distinction Commitment to the college’s mission to provide a quality education a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic student body, to building an inclusive diverse   Commitment to the college’s mission to provide a quality education to atomulti-cultural, multi-ethnic student body, andand to building an inclusive andand diverse community engaged cultural, ethnic, religious, economic pluralism of central Brooklyn community fullyfully engaged withwith the the richrich cultural, ethnic, religious, andand economic pluralism of central Brooklyn andand NewNew YorkYork CityCity Capacity to present college’s mission programs to multiple local, national, international constituencies, including alumni/ae, community,   Capacity to present the the college’s mission andand programs to multiple local, national, andand international constituencies, including alumni/ae, the the community, andand legislative other governmental bodies legislative andand other governmental bodies Proven record of assembling an inclusive cabinet capable of implementing college’s mission vision   Proven tracktrack record of assembling an inclusive cabinet capable of implementing the the college’s mission andand vision Effective communication skills, including listening to and valuing contributions all stakeholders   Effective communication skills, including listening to and valuing the the contributions of allofstakeholders Successful record of progressive senior leadership in institution an institution of higher education or institution of comparable scope, proven strengths in strategic   Successful record of progressive senior leadership in an of higher education or institution of comparable scope, withwith proven strengths in strategic planning, budgeting, management planning, budgeting, andand management Demonstrated leadership in developing quality academic programs supporting a distinguished faculty an environment of shared governance   Demonstrated leadership in developing quality academic programs andand supporting a distinguished faculty in anin environment of shared governance Commitment to enhancing student success strengthening delivery of services an urban diverse student   Commitment to enhancing student success andand strengthening the the delivery of services to anto urban andand diverse student bodybody Strong record of success in attracting financial support foundations, corporations, governmental sources, private donors   Strong record of success in attracting financial support fromfrom foundations, corporations, governmental sources, andand private donors Ability to unify college by supporting data-informed decisions leading to student success   Ability to unify the the college by supporting data-informed decisions leading to student success Proven expertise in remedial developmental education   Proven expertise in remedial andand developmental education Proven record of support for technological innovations   Proven tracktrack record of support for technological innovations TO APPLY HOWHOW TO APPLY Applications: Applicants should a letter expressing interest in the position addresses Search Committee’s preferred Applications: Applicants should sendsend (1) a(1)letter expressing theirtheir interest in the position thatthat addresses howhow theythey meetmeet the the Search Committee’s preferred qualifications, (2) their curriculum vitae, (3) the names of eight references each: superiors, subordinates, faculty members, community/business qualifications, (2) their curriculum vitae, andand (3) the names of eight references (two(two each: superiors, subordinates, faculty members, andand community/business leaders). References be contacted without applicant’s permission. leaders). References will will not not be contacted without the the applicant’s priorprior permission. Nominations: Nominators should a letter of nomination if possible, nominee’s curriculum vitae. Nominations: Nominators should sendsend a letter of nomination and,and, if possible, the the nominee’s curriculum vitae. Applications nominations should be sent electronically to: Medgar Evers Presidential Search at executivesearch@mail.cuny.edu searches@acct.org Applications andand nominations should be sent electronically to: Medgar Evers Presidential Search at executivesearch@mail.cuny.edu ANDAND searches@acct.org additional information, please contact: For For additional information, please contact: Mahlet Tsegaye Mahlet Tsegaye Narcisa A. Polonio Office of Executive Search/CUNY Dr. Dr. Narcisa A. Polonio Office of Executive Search/CUNY Association of Community College Trustees Email: executivesearch@mail.cuny.edu OROR Association of Community College Trustees Email: executivesearch@mail.cuny.edu Mobile: 202-276-1983; Office: 202-775-4466 Address: Street, Floor, York, 10017 Mobile: 202-276-1983; Office: 202-775-4466 Address: 205205 EastEast 42nd42nd Street, 11th11th Floor, NewNew York, NY NY 10017 Email: npolonio@acct.org All nominations, applications inquiries be held in strict confidence. Email: npolonio@acct.org All nominations, applications andand inquiries will will be held in strict confidence. . . CUNY an EO/AA/IRCA/ADA Employer a strong commitment to racial, cultural ethnic diversity. CUNY is anis EO/AA/IRCA/ADA Employer withwith a strong commitment to racial, cultural andand ethnic diversity. Search Committee actively seeks encourages nominations applications women all races ethnic backgrounds. TheThe Search Committee actively seeks andand encourages nominations andand applications fromfrom menmen andand women of allofraces andand ethnic backgrounds. committed to enhancing diverse academic community by actively encouraging people disabilities, minorities, veterans, women to apply. We We are are committed to enhancing our our diverse academic community by actively encouraging people withwith disabilities, minorities, veterans, andand women to apply. We We taketake in our pluralistic community continue to seek excellence through diversity inclusion. pridepride in our pluralistic community andand continue to seek excellence through diversity andand inclusion.

It’s happening at

Columbia in April

Tuesday, April 16 Music at St. Paul’s: Karine Poghosyan 6:00 p.m. St. Paul’s Chapel, Morningside campus Pianist Karine Poghosyan. For more info, call (212) 854-1487 or visit www.columbia.edu/ cu/earl/music.html. Tower and Slab: Histories of Global Mass Housing Noon Lehman Center, 406 International Affairs, Morningside campus Speaker: Florian Urban, Glasgow School of Art. For more info, call (212) 854-2927 or email lehmancenter@columbia.edu. Corporations Are People Too: The Strange History of Corporations and the 14th Amendment 6:30 p.m. 523 Butler Library, Morningside campus Speaker: Naomi R. Lamoreaux, Yale University. For more info, call (212) 854-7309 or visit https://alumni-friends.library.columbia.edu/ news.html. Softball vs. Marist 3:00 p.m. Baker Athletics Complex, 218th Street and Broadway Game two of this doubleheader will begin at 5:00 p.m. For more info, call (212) 854-2535 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com.

Wednesday, April 17 The Galley Slave’s Dilemma: Juan Latino, African Freedman of Granada 6:30 p.m. Ella Weed Room, Milbank Hall, Barnard campus Born in 1518, former slave Juan Latino was the first person of sub-Saharan African descent to publish a book of poems in a Western language. This conversation unpacks his poem Austriad to explore issues of identity and translation. For more info, call (212) 8548021 or visit www.barnard.edu/events.

Getting to Columbia The Morningside Heights campus is located at 116th Street and Broadway. By subway: No. 1 train to 116th Street station. By bus: M4, M11, M60 or M104.

Thursday, April 18 Nonfiction Dialogues Series: Richard Rodriguez 7:00 p.m. 501 Dodge, Morningside campus Editor and journalist Richard Rodriguez is the author of Hunger of Memory, Days of Obligation: An Argument with My Mexican Father and Brown: The Last Discovery of America. For more info, call (212) 854-2875 or visit www.arts.columbia.edu. Composer Portraits: Oliver Knussen 8:00 p.m. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus Conductor Brad Lubman. Tickets $25/$30. For more info, call (212) 854-7799 or visit www.millertheatre.com/events.

Friday, April 19 Stargazing and Lecture: Extragalactic FM 8:00 p.m. 301 Pupin, Morningside campus Speaker: Destry Saul, Columbia University. Lecture will be followed by stargazing with telescopes, weather-permitting. For directions, weather and more info, visit http://outreach .astro.columbia.edu. Book Launch: Diller Scofidio and Renfro: Architecture After Images 6:30 p.m. East Gallery, Buell Hall, Morningside campus Speakers: Elizabeth Diller, Diller Scofidio + Renfro; Edward Dimendberg, University of California-Irvine; Giuliana Bruno, Harvard University; Alexandra Lange, writer; Reinhold Martin, Columbia University; and Michael Sorkin, CCNY School of Architecture. For more info, call (212) 854-3414 or visit www.arch.columbia.edu/events.

Sunday, April 21 Volcanoes and Vents: A Hidden World Beneath the Sea 3:00 p.m. Monell Auditorium, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Palisades, NY Speaker: Emily M. Klein, Duke University. For more info, call (845) 365-8998 or email events@ldeo.columbia.edu.

Monday, April 22 Café Columbia: Health Reform: What Happened and What Happens Next 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PicNic Café, 2665 Broadway at 102nd Street Speaker: Michael S. Sparer, Columbia University. $10 per person. Seating is limited. For more info, call (877) 854-2586 or visit www.cafes.columbia.edu. Book Launch: Close Up at a Distance: Mapping, Technology, and Politics 6:30 p.m. Wood Auditorium, 100 Avery, Morningside campus Speakers: Laura Kurgan, Columbia University, and artist Trevor Paglen. For more info, call (212) 854-3414 or visit www.arch.columbia .edu/events.

Tuesday, April 23 Music at St. Paul’s: Juilliard Chamber Music 6:00 p.m. St. Paul’s Chapel, Morningside campus For more info, call (212) 854-1487 or visit www.columbia.edu/cu/earl/music.html. The Lionel Trilling Seminar: Trilling, Leavis, and the Limits of Cultural Criticism 6:15 p.m. Common Room, Heyman Center, Morningside campus Speaker: Stefan Collini, University of Cambridge. For more info, call (212) 8548443 or visit www.heymancenter.org. Pop-Up Concerts: New Music by Laura Kaminsky 6:00 p.m. Miller Theatre, Morningside campus Ensemble Signal takes the audience on a mini exploration of the wildly different ways composers confront complexity and virtuosity. For more info, call (212) 854-7799 or visit www.millertheatre.com/events.

Wednesday, April 24 Freedom’s Gardener: James F. Brown, Horticulture, and the Hudson Valley in Antebellum America Noon Lehman Center, 406 International Affairs, Morningside campus Speaker: Myra Beth Young Armstead, Bard College. For more info, call (212) 854-2927 or email lehmancenter@columbia.edu.

Friday, April 26 Baseball vs. Penn 1:00 p.m. Baker Athletics Complex, 218th Street and Broadway Game two of this double header will begin at 4:00 p.m. For more info, call (212) 854-2535 or visit www.gocolumbialions.com. Verdi’s Messa da Requiem 8:00 p.m. Union Theological Seminary Verdi’s hauntingly beautiful funeral mass comes to life in this rendition by the BarnardColumbia Chorus. Tickets $5/$3 students and seniors. For more info, call (212) 854-5096 or visit www.barnard.edu/events.

Monday, April 29 Living Side By Side: On Culture and Security 6:00 p.m. Low Library Rotunda, Morningside campus Homi K. Bhabha of Harvard explores the role of culture and the arts in cultivating an ethic and aesthetic of “living side-by-side.” For more info, call (212) 851-7293, email cgtmail@gmail.com or visit http://cgt.columbia .edu/events.

Tuesday, April 30 Music at St. Paul’s: Bolivian Baroque 6:00 p.m. St. Paul’s Chapel, Morningside campus Bolivian Baroque performs in conjunction with Americas Music Society. For more info, call (212) 854-1487 or visit www.columbia.edu/ cu/earl/music.html.

Friday, May 3-Friday, May 10 26th Annual Columbia University Film Festival Film Society of Lincoln Center 144 W. 65th St. The 26th Annual Columbia University Film Festival premieres short films, feature screenplays and teleplays created by graduate M.F.A. students. For a complete schedule and ticket information, visit www.cufilmfest.com.

All events are open to the public. This is a sampling of them. For additional events or general information, visit www.columbia.edu or call (212) 854-2871. For Columbia sports info, visit www.gocolumbialions.com. Guests in need of disability services should call (212) 854-2284 prior to the event.

L PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Columbia and City Expand Progr am for Minority, Women and Locally Based Contr actors

atherine Jallim has owned her own construction business for 12 years and thought she knew everything there was to know. Then she was accepted into Columbia University’s two-year construction mentorship program, where she learned even more. It has “helped my company improve in marketing, networking, its safety program,” she said. “I have increased my bonding capacity since learning how to do it here, and I have received over six contracts since joining the program.” Columbia has a rigorous commitment to minority, women and local (MWL) business enterprises and supports this commitment through a variety of initiatives. The construction mentorship program was formed in conjunction with New York City’s Department of Small Business Services (SBS) in January 2008. Since then, professionals from 59 firms have graduated and garnered more than $90 million in construction trades work with the city and Columbia. “From the beginning, our vision was to create a mentorship program that would benefit MWL firms in the construction trades industry and help identify firms that might be able to work with Columbia or other large institutional firms,” said Joe Ienuso, executive vice president of Columbia University Facilities. “We have been successful in both regards.” The two-year mentorship program includes academic work in such topics as marketing and communications, disputes and negotiations, insurance and bonds, as well as project planning and sustainability. Professionals in the program work on a case study and are assigned mentors from big construction firms to help them learn the challenges of bidding on large-scale projects. When they complete the program, participants receive a certificate from Columbia’s School of Continuing Education.

“The city has made tremendous progress in expanding the opportunities available to minority and women business owners under Mayor Bloomberg’s leadership, but there is still more to do,” said Rob Walsh, commissioner of the city’s Department of Small Business Services. “With partners like Columbia, we will continue to help minority- and women-owned businesses succeed.” “As a small company we learned how to retain good employees, to promote our business, and demonstrate credibility as a company,” said Yam Gurung, of Harlem-based J&Y Electric and Intercom Co. Inc., who will complete the program in May. “Since the market is so competitive, we have to constantly improve our skills to gain a competitive advantage.” Two years ago, the city expanded its minority- and women-owned business efforts, which had previously been confined to the public sector, to include opportunities with private companies and organizations. Columbia is one of 11 founding partners in the Corporate Alliance Program, a publicprivate partnership that aims to connect MWL participants to opportunities

The winners of the Year 1 Case Study Competition, an integral part of the construction mentorship program, hold their awards. From left: Yam Gurung, J&Y Electric and Intercom Company Inc.; David Muñoz (mentor), Skanska USA Building Inc.; Kimberlee Kelley, Artisan Construction; Jorge Barbosa, U. Arias Corp.

with corporate partners. “The city has made tremendous progress in expanding the opportunities available to minority and women business owners under Mayor Bloomberg’s leadership, but there is still more to do,” said Rob Walsh, commissioner of the city’s Department of Small Business Services. “With partners like Columbia, we will continue to help minority- and women-owned businesses succeed.” The University’s goal is to spend at least 35 percent of all construction dollars with MWL firms and have at least 40 percent of its construction labor force made up of women, minorities and local workers. “We have some of the most aggressive goals around,” said La-Verna Fountain, vice president for Construction Business Services and Communications. “It would be impossible to achieve them without the active support of our MWL Advisory Council made up of local industry experts like the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, the Harlem Business Alliance and the New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce.” Columbia University has received a number of accolades recently for its groundbreaking work. In May 2012, the facilities department was recognized for outstanding advocacy on behalf of the Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Community. Fountain herself received the Minorityand Women-Owned Business Enterprise Advocate of the Year Award in June 2012. And Tanya Pope, executive director of Construction Business Services, was named an Outstanding Woman by the National Association of Professional Women in Construction. In addition to the construction certificate/mentorship program, the Eugene Lang Entrepreneurship Center at Columbia Business School continues to offer a two-year program providing specialized assistance to a wide range of MWL firms. The University also is expanding its role as the host of the first and only Small Business Development Center (SBDC) serving Harlem and Upper Manhattan, which will provide technical assistance, training and support to entrepreneurs, small businesses and nonprofit organizations in the local community.

Visit http://news.columbia.edu/mwl to learn more about Columbia University’s MWL initiatives.

The Newark School of Theology A SCHOOL GROWS IN NEWARK P. O. Box 831, Newark, NJ 07101 • The Rev. R. Douglas Bendall, Ph.D. Founder and President • Tel. 973-297-0505 • Fax 973-242-6024 FOUNDING The Newark School of Theology (NST) was founded by The Rev. Dr. Douglas Bendall in 1997. Dr. Bendall carried the vision of a school of theology for poor and marginalized people until the Lord brought him to Newark to minister at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in 1995. In August of that year, the Lord said the right time had come to create the school. Build it in Newark. The reader may not be surprised to learn that as soon as the process of founding the school began everything required to establish it was provided. Just five months passed from the time of its incorporation until it began offering courses. NST is dedicated to providing high quality theological education to persons who may not have the background or the means to pursue studies at more tradi-

tional schools whose primary mission is to educate men and women for ordained ministry. NST offers a theological education to everyone. THEOLOGY AS A LIBERAL ART Theology is taught as a liberal art at The Newark School of Theology. All instruction is carried out without any form of coercion or requirement of uniformity of belief. This basic commitment allows the school to transcend the conventional secular and religious divide. NST is “secular” in that it does not require students or teachers to profess any particular religious belief. It is “theological” because it is concerned with the study and discussion of ideas of God, the meaning of being human, the nature of Good and Evil, the foundations of social order, and the Good Life. It is properly theological

• Accelerated • Bachelors • Alliance

OUR CITY CAMPUS IS MOVING!

by maintaining that theological statements can be true and have practical consequences. The Newark School of Theology provides a venue and forum where the most important issues of life are explored and discussed. A lively place, it attracts a diverse group of students and teachers who are not afraid to learn new things and ask questions about their previous understandings. In the process of learning new things, most students grow in faith as well as understanding. Please visit the school’s web site at www.newarkschooloftheology.org or call for additional information. Become a partner in the conversations that take place at NST and see for yourself that a school of theology is growing in Newark.

Degree Completion Program

Degrees (38 majors)

Theological Seminary

• MA

in Counseling or Marriage & Family

• MS

in Organizational Leadership (finish in as little as 12 months)

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MBA (finish in as little as 16 months)

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MS in Childhood Education, Childhood Special Education

New Programs. New Opportunities. New York’s Christian College.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

2 Washington Street, New York NY 10004

Call 866-42-NYACK or visit our website: www.nyack.edu!

Nyack, NY • New York, NY

The Positive Community April 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Vouchers and Takeovers of Urban Schools: ARE THEY THE ANSWERS FOR IMPROVING THE EDUCATION OF LOW-INCOME CHILDREN OF COLOR? By Walter C. Farrell, Jr.

ince the 1990s, there has been a push for vouchers as an educational reform to provide school choice for low-income parents in New Jersey’s urban public school systems. Funded by local and national privatesector organizations and foundations, this initiative has been aggressively advocated in school districts disproportionately populated by low-income students of color— Camden, Newark, Asbury Park, and Jersey City. It has also been championed by former Governor Christine Todd Whitman and current Gov. Chris Christie. It is noteworthy that while voucher programs were initially targeted at the urban poor, the long-term goals of state-based legislative choice initiatives are being designed to open up publicly-funded, private school vouchers to all students, irrespective of their family’s income status. It is ironic that political and corporate interests, who champion these initiatives, are also promoting a variety of programs and policies that have disadvantaged the urban poor--school segregation, low wages, urban deindustrialization, export of urban jobs to developing countries, lax enforcement of occupational safety regulations, and voter suppression activities. Moreover, they were also behind efforts to dismantle the Abbott legislation that was beginning to show progress in improving academic outcomes for low-income urban students in New Jersey’s high poverty districts. Nonetheless, voucher programs as alternatives to public education continue to grow in popularity in states with sizeable increases in populations of color in urban www.thepositivecommunity.com

Walter C. Farrell, Jr.

areas. For example, recently enacted, expanded, and/or proposed voucher legislation in Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Louisiana, and New Jersey lifts and/or eliminates the voucher family-income eligibility cap, thereby increasing the number of students eligible to participate, most of whom will be neither poor nor students of color. For example, the previous family income limits of 175% and 185% of the federal poverty level has been increased to 250% (in New Jersey) and 300% in Washington, D.C., making upper working-class and middle-class families eligible for participation in voucher programs. continued on next page April 2013 The Positive Community

SCHOOL VOUCHERS continued from previous page

In addition, families will maintain eligibility, even if their income rises. Consequently, changes to eligibility criteria and other aspects of voucher programs may serve more to support and subsidize private education for middle-class children rather than as an opportunity for the educational advancement of poor students of color. In the case of Newark, Camden, Paterson, and Elizabeth, New Jersey, 75% or more of school-aged African American and Latino children have an annual median family income of less than the federal poverty level for an urban family of four, approximately $23,000. These figures do not suggest a need to raise the income cap for voucher eligibility, given the alleged focus on improving the educational experiences of low-income children of color. Moreover, vouchers do not address the most urgent social and economic challenges facing students in these communities: gangs, drugs, neighborhood violence, adult and youth homicides, family dysfunction and parent unemployment, and rapidly increasing rates of concentrated poverty. There is no evidence that vouchers will solve these problems in poor urban school districts where budgets and staff are continually being cut. Poor children, like middle class children in New Jersey’s high wealth school districts, need quality physical facilities, safe school and neighborhood environments, adequate and nutritional diets, small class size, and high quality school personnel at all levels. These were the goals embedded in the Brown school desegregation decision of 1954, and the struggle continues for educational equity for children of color. Most voucher proponents say they are concerned about poor children in failing urban schools, but New Jersey’s proposed legislation allows a family of four earning $55,000 a year (more than twice the federal poverty level) to participate. Thus the question becomes: who is poor? But even more important is that a review of research on vouchers at the federal, state, and local levels under Republican and Democratic administrations has revealed the following: • Private and religious schools are not held accountable to any of the mandates of No Child Left Behind (past or present). • Teachers and administrators in voucher schools are not required to have certification nor do they have to be “highly qualified” as is the case for their counterparts in the public schools. • Students with special educational needs and other challenges have been routinely denied admission,

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April 2013

expelled from, and/or counseled out of voucher schools, and forced to return to public schools (since the majority are under the age of 16) without state funding. • English Language Learners (ELL) are under-represented in voucher schools as compared to their numbers in nearby public schools, • Voucher schools have drained public schools of significant funding during the years of their existence. In Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida, Washington, D.C., Louisiana, Utah, Georgia, and North Carolina, more than $200 billion have been drained from public school budget since 1990. • Numerous studies by those supportive of and opposed to vouchers have also confirmed that voucher schools do no better in educating low-income, minority or other children than do public schools. Most often, they perform worse. The verdict on vouchers is in, and there is no substantial evidence that the majority of voucher schools are of high quality. Recently, Governor Christie has used the African American Assembly Speaker, Sheila Oliver, as a foil to advance this flawed educational reform. But no amount of scapegoating can negate the fact that vouchers have not delivered on their promise of improving educational achievement for poor students of color. In addition, in New Jersey’s takeover of urban school districts with student populations of color, the overwhelming majority, has a worse record of success than vouchers. Since 1989, when the state took control of the Paterson Public Schools, educational outcomes have not improved in any substantial measure. Jersey City and Newark followed in 1991 and 1995, respectively, with similar patterns of state failure during its collective twentyfour years of oversight. On March 25, 2013, Gov. Christie announced the state’s takeover of the Camden City Schools, and it is unlikely that the historical pattern of low school performance will change. After cuts of more than $3 billion dollars from public school budgets since 2009, maybe it is time to try a new reform—adequately funding public schools and upgrading school facilities in urban areas. Walter C. Farrell, Jr., is Professor of Management in the School of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Fellow in the National Education Policy Center (NEPC) at the University of Colorado-Boulder www.thepositivecommunity.com

The College of New RoChelle School of New Resources

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Business Administration and Management

Health Care Administration

Human Services

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144 West 125th Street New York, NY 10027 212.662.7500

Call 800-933-5923 I visit www.cnR.edu/snR I e-mail snR@cnR.edu

proud of its faith-based roots, diverse outreach Undergraduate Students

• A Catholic college in the Franciscan tradition elician College, the Francis- also identified among the top six • Generous scholarship opportunities can College of New Jersey, colleges in the region for racial and is a coeducational, Catholic ethnic diversity. • Dedicated professors who know you by name What sets Felician apart from other institution with campuses in • NCAA Division II athletic program Lodi and Rutherford. Felician offers colleges in the region is its attention • Internship opportunities and career counseling more than 55 undergraduate and to student needs: class sizes remain • Residential student community graduate programs in the classroom small with a 12:1 student/faculty raand online in the arts and sciences, tio; and through its various on- and business management, health man- off-campus programs and work opagement, nursing andCompletion teacher educa- portunities Adult Degree Studentsand curriculum-focused Undergraduate Students tion. Felician has also added its first internships, students gain valuable • doctorate A Catholic college in the Franciscan tradition • Accelerated and flexible programs held on-campus, program for nursing pro- career preparation and keen insight • fessionals Generous scholarship opportunities who wish to advance their into life beyond the classroom. online or at our off-campus locations • leadership Dedicated professors who know you by name “We are proud to build on the positions in health care. • Small class sizes – build a sense of community with • NCAA Division II athletic program Felician College opens its doors Felician Sisters’ legacy by continuing other adult students. • to Internship opportunities and career counseling both traditional and adult students, to expand our student body, con• and Residential student community is committed to serving a diverse tinuing to make Felician College an inclusive community that represents population. Graduate Students In any classroom, you may find a wonderful ‘diversity of diversities,’” Adult Degree Completion Students yourself sitting among students right said Dr. Prisco. • Develop credentials, knowledge and leadership skills to • out Accelerated and flexible programs held on-campus, Respect, compassion and service of high school, or a single parent advance your career working online or at our off-campus locations towards a goal of attaining a are infused in the College’s daily • degree. Small class sizes – build a sense of community with • Graduate programs include a combination of coursework Or perhaps even an older adult life, which is focused on bringing student other adult students. looking to change careers. The students to their highest potential and fieldwork to prepare you for leadership roles College’s online courses are geared for and better preparing them to meet students who may be balancing work today’s challenges and the opportuGraduate nities of the future. and home lifeStudents with their studies. • Develop credentials, knowledge and leadership skills to Felician also offers 10 varsity in“Our goal is to continue to attract of all ages, interests and terscholastic sports that compete at students advance your career and to deliver courses the NCAA Division II level. Following • backgrounds, Graduate programs include a combination of coursework all the many ways now available the 2011-12 scholastic year, ten Fe in and fieldwork to prepare you for leadership roles to us,” said Felician College President lician College student-athletes were Dr. Anne Prisco, who was recently in- selected as Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports stalled as the College’s fifth president. Scholars by the periodical Diverse STUDENTS FIRST In 2011, Felician College was the Issues in Higher Education. The only New Jersey institution to be award, named for the late profesnamed by U.S. News & World Re- sional tennis star, was established port in its annual rankings of Best to honor outstanding undergraduCampus tours are offered thisate spring student-athletes of color who Regional Colleges in the northern STUDENTS FIRST maintain region of the country. Felician was every Monday, Wednesday and Fridaya cumulative grade-point

at 10 a.m. and every Tuesday and Thursday at are 2 p.m. Campus tours offered this spring

every Monday, Wednesday and Friday

average of at least 3.20. “Our mission is to continue to support and expand our student life, athletic and other programs that contribute so much to strengthening our community spirit,” said Dr. Prisco. “As citizens of the world, and in the Franciscan tradition, we have a responsibility to be wise stewards of our resources. We can reflect that in our daily lives by educating our students to embrace the value of peace and justice through the goal of sustainable lifestyles and communities.” Felician also recognizes the importance of providing a supportive environment for members of our country’s armed forces veterans and their families. For the second consecutive year, Felician College was named by G.I. Jobs magazine as a Military Friendly School for its commitment to that cause. Felician’s inclusion on the list, which is the result of a survey of more than 12,000 schools, ranks it in the top 15 percent of all colleges, universities and trade schools nationwide. As a military friendly institution, Felician offers dedicated financial benefits and has created uniquely tailored programs to help veterans and their families achieve their academic goals. “I’m very proud of our commitment to the military program,” said Dr. Prisco. “This is a wonderful way for us to show our deep appreciation for the men and women who have bravely served our country.”

223 Montross Avenue Rutherford, NJ 07070 l Tel: 201.355.1465

Undergraduate Students • A Catholic college in the Franciscan tradition • Generous scholarship opportunities • Dedicated professors who know you by name • NCAA Division II athletic program • Internship opportunities and career counseling • Residential student community

Adult Degree Completion Students • Accelerated and flexible programs held on-campus, online or at our off-campus locations • Small class sizes – build a sense of community with other adult students.

Graduate Students • Develop credentials, knowledge and leadership skills to advance your career • Graduate programs include a combination of coursework and fieldwork to prepare you for leadership roles

STUDENTS FIRST

Campus tours are offered this spring every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m. and every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. Register online: felician.edu/visit/campus-tours

223 Montross Avenue Rutherford, NJ 07070 l Tel: 201.355.1465 E-mail: admissions@felician.edu felician.edu

Sparking the Love for Reading

s a mother of two young, black boys, Juliana Worrell knows how important it is that her sons not only learn how to read well, but that they develop a love of reading. “The deck is already stacked against them,” she said, referring to the fact that too many black boys in the U.S. lack access to great schools. That’s why Ms. Worrell, a principal at North Star Academy Charter School in Newark, N.J., is passionate about reading instruction. This spring, Ms. Worrell and two co-authors, Paul Bambrick-Santoyo and Aja Settles, are publishing the book Great Habits, Great Readers, a guide to teaching reading in Kindergarten through 4th grade. North Star is part of Uncommon Schools, a non-profit network of 32 free, public charter schools in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts. There is no entrance exam or fee to enroll. The students are chosen via random lottery. At North Star, 99% of the students are African American or Latino and over 80% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Many come to the school years behind their suburban counterparts in terms of reading-readiness. Yet, in only a few short years, the reading strategies

that are described in the book result in a transformation. Last year, 98% of third graders at North Star scored proficient on the English Language Arts state exam called the NJASK. That even beat New Jersey’s white third graders, 73% of whom passed the state exam. The troubling news is that only 41% of third graders in urban New Jersey centers passed the test. Studies show a student who can’t read on grade level by third grade is four times less likely to graduate high school by age 19 than a child who does read proficiently by that time. And for low-income students, it’s even worse: those students are 13 times less likely. Ms. Worrell’s book is a step-bystep guide to making good reading instruction great—and outlines the tools and strategies that any teacher or school can employ right away to get better results for students. Much like a coach in professional sports, the principals shown in the book are helping teachers discover and sharpen their own skills so they can have a meaningful impact on student achievement. The book is filled with helpful strategies on how to do this, and also comes with a CD with dozens of videos of teachers carrying out these impor-

tant strategies with their students. An example of one of the strategies taught in the book is teaching students how to “word solve.” So if students come to an unfamiliar word like “quadrilateral” in a text, they have the strategies to assess separate chunks of the word at a time to figure out its meaning. Knowing how to word solve means that by the end of second grade, students can read virtually any book. “Not being able to word solve is why so many 3rd and 4th graders are not reading on grade level,” Ms. Worrell said about other schools she has worked with. While North Star is a free, public charter school—with a longer school day, a longer school year and other flexibilities that may not exist at traditional district schools--Ms. Worrell is convinced that the strategies and resources in the book can be applied at any school, charter or otherwise. She should know. Eight years ago she was a teacher at a traditional district public school. “I wish I had these strategies then,” she said. “There’s no reason the tools we are showing can’t be used anywhere, from urban low-performing districts to suburban high-performing schools. It’s just good practice.”

I am U ncommon . - N kk B owen Dean of Students

Former 2nd Grade Teacher Leadership Prep Bedford Stuyvesant Uncommon New York City

I rode the yellow “cheese bus” an hour across Brooklyn every morning to get a good education. Today, my students don’t have to.

Even as a 2nd grader, I took great pride in my work. My story won the Ezra Jack Keats award in a writing competition and was published in the local library.

My mom fought to ensure I received a great education. She couldn’t have been prouder the day I graduated from college.

Teaching is more than a job– it’s who I am. During the summer, I recharge by volunteering with kids.

Meet more Uncommon teachers and leaders at uncommonschools.org/iamuncommon

OURSTORY

The Emancipation of Harry Washington . . . The slave George Washington BY R.L. WITTER Didn’t Get to Free

merica was founded in the pursuit of freedom, so it is more than a bit ironic that the “Father of our country,” George Washington, was a slave-owner. The first president of the United States owned more than 300 slaves with his wife, Martha. Upon his death in 1799 his will set only one free—William “Billy” Lee, who had been his personal servant. The other 123 slaves that he owned outright and were not part of Martha’s dowry, were to be freed upon her death. Fearful after hearing rumors of a slave uprising, Martha set the slaves free a year after her husband’s death. The Washington’s owned one slave, however, who didn’t wait to be granted freedom. His story is one for the history books. Harry Washington, born in West Africa somewhere near the Gambia River around 1740, was captured and arrived in America aboard a slave ship in the early 1760s. He was purchased by George Washington and sent to work in the Dismal Swamp where a company Washington had formed with several partners was harvesting lumber while they were draining the swamp to farm the land once it became dry. In 1763 Washington moved him to his estate in Virginia, Mt. Vernon. Here Harry worked in and around the main house and tended to Washington’s horses.

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April 2013

By 1771, however, he could no longer tolerate the constraints of slavery and ran away. Washington paid handsomely to advertise for the return of his property, and within a few weeks Harry was returned to him. Undaunted, he escaped again in 1775, only to be returned to his master once again. Still determined to be a free man, upon hearing that the British were promising freedom to any slave who would fight for the British Crown, in 1776 Harry joined three white indentured servants and fled Mt. Vernon again. He joined the British forces under Lord Dunmore, the Governor of Virginia, eventually attaining the rank of corporal. He participated in the invasion of South Carolina and the siege of Charleston, taking charge of a company of Black Pioneers attached to the Royal Artillery Department in Charleston and ostensibly relegated to cleanup tasks. At the end of the war, Harry’s fate was uncertain due to the defeat of the British. But true to their word, the British moved more than 4,000 blacks to a safe zone in New York. Despite the passage of several years, George Washington never wavered in his resolve to have Harry recovered and is said to have once again spent a considerable sum on investigators and slave trackers to capture Harry and other escaped slaves. But, Harry eluded Washington’s efforts and boarded the ship L’Abondance headed for Nova Scotia, to begin their new lives as free people of color. In what was perhaps a case of “be careful what you wish for . . .” the group settled in what they named Birchtown, where a wife, Jenny, turns up in the historical documents. However, the weather in Nova Scotia was foul and the land given to them was difficult to cultivate. They also still suffered racism from the local white residents. The Birchtown settlers, Harry Washington, one of them, protested their situation to the British government. As a result the British offered to relocate them to Sierra Leone, a British colony in Africa. They agreed, based on terms that they would be granted “20 acres for every man, ten for every woman and five for every child.” Unfortunately, Sierra Leone was not the promised land the settlers had anticipated. While they were able to cultivate the land and start farms, the settlers found themselves subject to unfair taxes that amounted to a British version of sharecropping. Harry became the leader of a rebellion against colonial rule and protested to the government once more. His fight against the mighty British empire was for naught and he was banished from Sierra Leone to live out the rest of his life across the Sierra Leone River in an area called Bullom Shore. Harry Washington may not have lived the life of freedom he so ardently pursued, but he never gave up his quest for liberty and justice. In the end he died no longer a slave, back on his home continent of Africa. www.thepositivecommunity.com

CLACC-C Summer Camp to Teach Cultural Heritage By Ayorinde

he Carlos Lezama Archives and Caribbean Cultural Center (CLACC-C) was established in 2005 with a mission to educate communities regarding Caribbean heritage. Devoted to research, development, preservation and promotion of West Indian culture and history, this year the center will enrich the education component of its mission with the establishment of Camp CLACC-C, the first of its kind cultural summer camp. Camp CLACC-C will give children in Brooklyn an opportunity to learn and experience the rudiments of indigenous Caribbean art forms. The curriculum includes steel pan class, costume design, stilt walking, folk dancing, storytelling, poetry, drumming and soca aerobics. Yolanda Lezama-Clark is president of CLACC-C and camp director. “The idea was born out of a need to provide a safe space for so many of our children who have nowhere to go during the summer months,” she explained. “But once it was conceived, we wanted to also ensure that the kids who participate in Camp CLACC-C leave with a better understanding and appreciation of their culture.” The camp, which runs from July 1-August 23, coincides with what is considered the peak of Brooklyn’s Caribbean carnival season. It is the time when masquerade camps and steelband yards open their doors in preparation for the massive Labor Day Caribbean parade. So in addition to in-camp instruction, the participants of Camp CLACCC will have a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry that goes into producing the Eastern Parkway spectacle. “We want the children to learn how to make a costume and how to play the steel pan,” said Lezama-Clark. “But just as important, we want them to get the feel of what it’s like in a mas camp and to find out firsthand what a steelband yard is.” With this in mind, Lezama-Clark is enthusiastically planning a bus tour to mas camps and steel pan yards similar to the popular one she instituted during her tenure as president of the West Indian American Day Carnival Association. In addition, Camp CLACC-C aims to focus on proper nutrition. “Diseases such as diabetes, obesity

www.thepositivecommunity.com

and hypertension are plaguing our communities,” says Lezama-Clark. “Therefore, we believe that proper nutrition is important not just to enhance the programming at Camp CLACC-C, but also to promote healthy living long after the summer is over.” A nutritious breakfast and lunch will be served daily and classes will include making healthier diet choices and reading food labels. The camp caters to 100 children between the ages of 7-15 years and will be housed at the Medgar Evers Preparatory School. Full and half day schedules are available at affordable prices. In an attempt to accommodate everyone, there is also a day schedule available with a minimum commitment of 20 days. For the past two years, CLACC-C has produced an annual street festival on the historic block where the Center/Museum is housed at 1028 St. John's Place. This year, the participants of Camp CLACC-C will have an opportunity to take part in that festival, which takes place on August 24. Lezama-Clark along with co-director Patricia Romeo and camp instructors are planning a range of performances for the young campers to showcase what they have learned at Camp CLACC-C for their parents and the residents of Crown Heights.. The Carlos Lezama Archives and Caribbean Cultural Center is aptly named in tribute to Carlos Lezama, the “godfather” of Brooklyn’s Caribbean Carnival. It was established under the auspices of the University of the State of New York and is designed to promote and preserve Caribbean culture and history. With the creation of its cultural summer camp, CLACC-C is standing true to its mission. At the same time, the camp serves as an acknowledgment of the Caribbean “way-showers” who not only supplied the cultural chart and compass, but also constructed the guideposts for the migrant journey for future generations including those fortunate enough to be part of Camp CLACC-C 2013. Information about registering for Camp CLACC-C is available at www.claccc.org. April 2013 The Positive Community

INTRODUCING:

DR. GALE E. GIBSON Essex County College’s Interim President

ssex County College (ECC) has new leadership: Dr. Gale E. Gibson was appointed Interim President by the College Board of Trustees on March 19. A transformative leader in higher education for 20 years, Dr. Gibson previously served as the College’s Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer. “With Essex County College having such a diverse student population, and being located in a large urban area, it possesses two crucial elements of my philosophy of education," shared Dr. Gibson. "Education is a lifelong transformative process and that is what ECC is about. I see Essex as one of the most prom-

ising community colleges in this area and I very much want to be a part of the College’s future success.” As Senior Vice President, Dr. Gibson was responsible for establishing and overseeing programs consistent with the College’s long-range strategic goals and objectives, as well as promoting and enhancing ECC’s presence in the region. “The Board of Trustees is confident in Dr. Gale Gibson’s ability to lead Essex County College,” said Board Chair Calvin Souder, Esq. “For well over a year, she immersed herself into the College community and built strong internal and external relationships.” She previously was founding Dean of the College of Freshman Studies,

and Professor in the Department of Student Affairs and Services, at Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York. She exemplified a strong student-centered perspective during her 16 years at Medgar Evers, where she oversaw nine departments critical to student retention, progression and graduation. Dr. Gibson earned her Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Adult and Community College Education from North Carolina State University. She received a Master of Arts in Social Sciences and Counseling, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Binghamton University – State University of New York.

RETHINK SUMMER... Graduate Sooner ESSEX COUNTY COLLEGE CONTINUES ITS EXPANDED SUMMER SCHEDULE

ssex County College’s motto for the summer is “Rethink Summer…Graduate Sooner.” ECC continues to expand its Summer II class offering which was launched last year. The schedule expansion is designed, in part, to make it easier for students to complete their Associate degree requirements within three years. Summer classes are held at both the main Newark and West Essex (in West Caldwell) campuses. Online registration is underway and will continue until Summer II classes start July 8. In-person registration will be held July 2 and July 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at both campuses. Visiting students who are attending other colleges during the traditional academic year must register in person July 2 or 3, at which time they can pick up an application for enrollment. They do not have to take

a pre-admission test; just provide evidence through a transcript of their academic work at another college. Similar to last year, there are classes that start at 7 a.m. as well as two evening classes blocks so students can take up to three classes outside of standard business hours. ECC’s “hybrid” courses allow students to work on their course work via computer off-campus about half of the time of the class. Incoming freshman for Summer II are encouraged to take any required developmental courses, so they can focus on courses in their major beginning as soon as Fall 2013 semester. GENERAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION is available by calling the Office of Student Success at (973) 877-3348, or email: studentsuccess@essex.edu. Registration information about ECC is available at www.essex.edu.

Positive Community-8-25x10-75_2013.pdf

4/5/13

3:01 PM

ESSEX COUNTY COLLEGE 5. There are more classes offered than ever before! 4. Earlier classes to fit your busy lifestyle 3. At $108.50/credit, essex county college is affordable 2. Credits can transfer to your current college or university

AND THE #1 REASON TO TAKE SUMMER CLASSES...

essex.edu/summer studentsuccess@essex.edu

JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT OPEN HOUSE!

April 25, 4-7pm

Main Campus, 2nd Floor Forum, 303 University Ave

Harlem YMCA Black Achievers in Industry Awards

L-R: Schone Malliet,VP Wells Fargo Private Bank with Tiffeny Forrest and Christopher Shell, youth award-winner

L–R: Tiffeny Forrest, Roger Arrieux, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP and DeMarco Morgan

ince 1971, THE Harlem YMCA HAS hosted National Salute to Black Achievers in Industry (bai) Awards Ceremony. The annual awards ceremony, which was held at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel has celebrated black achievers in industry – both for their corporate leadership and for their service to the community for 43 years. Along with the Harlem YMCA, corporations, and local organizations put forth a collective effort to cultivate and provide quality mentoring programs, scholarships, and other opportunities to support the development of tomorrow’s black leaders and professionals. Michelle Lee, Northeast Regional president, Community Banking, at Wells Fargo, corporate chair of the event said in her remarks that indeed, her company was “…proud to partner with the Harlem YMCA to celebrate excellence among the nation’s black professionals and community leaders and to play a key role in supporting Harlem youth on their journey toward becoming tomorrow’s leaders.” Among the programs funds from the event will support is the Corporate Scholarship Program. In 1995, the bai initiative launched the Corporate Scholarship Program to provide direct support to motivated African American high school students in New York City to support their pursuit of higher learning. To date the program has awarded 480 scholarships, equating to nearly $1.2 million in funds to supplement recipients’ educational costs. Thanks to the program’s corporate partners, a goal has been established to award 55 individual $2,500 scholarships in 2013. The bai Mentor program connects motivated New York City teens with acknowledged successful professional adults to realize the full potential of young people through a variety of academic and social resources and

The Positive Community April 2013

Michelle Lee, Regional president Community Banking, Wells Fargo

L-R: CEO of the YMCA of Greater New York, Jack Lund and Hon. Glenda Hatchett

experiences. bai alumni are linked with mentees based on the mentee’s career goal and mentor’s area of expertise, as well as their common hobbies/personal interests. Mentors and mentees develop their own schedule of educational, social, and recreational activities, based on their mutual schedules, and participate in a host of YMCA events during the school year. The Honorable Glenda Hatchett, star of the hit TV show Judge Hatchett, recipient of this year’s Leo B. Marsh Award, gave the keynote address, which was presented by Jack Lund, president/CEO of the YMCA of Greater New York. DeMarco Morgan, Atlanta-based News Anchor for WXIA-TV, NBC, was master of ceremonies. Graduating high school senior Christopher M. Shell accepted this year’s Carrie Terrell Youth Achiever Award and $5,000 in scholarship. Other distinguished honorees and speakers included: Rodney Hines, director of Community Investments and Executive Director of the Starbucks Corporation, who received the Deloitte Corporate Community Award, which was presented by Henry Phillips, vice chairman and regional managing partner Northeast, Deloitte & Touche; Lester J. Owens, managing director, Morgan Chase, who received the Elaine Edmonds Award, presented by Roger G. Arrieux, Jr., partner, Alternative Investment Management Services, Deloitte & Touche; and Rev. Georgiette Morgan Thomas, member, Harlem Y Board of Managers and 2013 Strong Kids co-chair, who delivered remarks on the Y’s Strong Kids initiative. In her closing remarks, Tiffeny Forrest, executive director of the Harlem YMCA, thanked the participants and sponsors, saying, “This annual gala not only applauds exceptional black leaders nationwide, it also celebrates our partners that help make these programs possible.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Dr. David H. Swinton, president of Benedict College; Dr. Michael Lomax; Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III (Shirley Chisholm Community Service Award recipient); William Stasior, senior chairman, Booz Allen Hamilton; Russell Short, Morehouse College student L–R: Dr. David H. Swinton, Dr. Michael Lomax, Ingrid Sanders Jones, Chair of Coca-Cola Foundation (President’s Award recipient) and William Stasior, senior chairman, Booz Allen Hamilton

A Party With a Purpose

Jennifer Holliday entertains crowd L–R: Ian Cook, Chairman, President and CEO of ColgatePalmolive Company, Gala Co-Chair; Dr. Michael Lomax; David Sable, Chairman & CEO of Y & R, Gala Co-Chair

UNCF Gala Honors Ingrid Saunders Jones and Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts

NCF (United Negro College Fund), the nation’s largest education organization and national advocate for education reform, was joined by over 1,000 educators, business and civic leaders, and supporters of education from across the country on March 7 at its annual UNCF “A Mind Is” Gala at the Hilton New York. The event, hosted by WNBC/New York anchor David Ushery, raised funds to benefit more than 60,000 students who receive UNCF scholarships and attend UNCF’s 38-member historically black colleges and universities and more than 900 colleges and universities across the country. “We are deeply grateful to everyone whose support and participation has made this year’s UNCF “A Mind Is” Gala such a success. That success is not just about one night, but about walking the walk and investing in a new kind of philanthropy; one that proves an investment in our young people today will pay dividends tomorrow, not just for them, but for all of us,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and CEO, UNCF. In addition to electrifying performance by Tony Award-winner and longtime UNCF supporter Jennifer Holliday, presidents from UNCF’s 38 member institutions were honored along with two longtime advocates of UNCF’s mission received the organization’s highest awards: Ingrid Saunders Jones, vice president for Global Community Connections of the Coca-Cola Company and chair of the Coca-Cola Foundation, was honored with the UNCF President’s Award for her work with and support of UNCF. Ms. Saunders Jones is a member of the Board of Trustees of UNCF member institution Clark Atlanta University and the national chair of the National Council of Negro Women. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, pastor of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church received the UNCF Shirley Chisholm Community Service Award. The award was presented to Dr. Butts in honor of his longtime work addressing and solving educational challenges in Harlem and New York City. Russell Short, a student at a UNCF member HBCU and member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church, assisted in presenting Rev. Butts with his award. Short graduated from Thurgood Marshall Academy for Learning and Social Change, a public middle school that is a project of the Abyssinian Development Corporation. UNCF’s Campaign for Emergency Student Aid (CESA) created in 2009, provides scholarships that aid students facing financial shortfalls that threaten their ability to stay in college and graduate. To date, more than 6,000 donors have contributed more than $14 million to help more than 8,000 students stay in school. Javon Phillips, a graduate of a UNCF member college, who received an inaugural CESA scholarship and is now Basketball Operations coordinator at Excel Sports Management in New York, represented those students. Since its founding in 1944, UNCF has raised more than $3.6 billion and helped more than 400,000 students secure college degrees. Each year, in addition to supporting its member institutions and their students, UNCF awards more than 13,000 scholarships and advocates for the right of low income and minority students to receive a good education from preschool through college graduation. The UNCF “A Mind Is” Gala was co-chaired by Ian M. Cook, chairman and CEO, Colgate-Palmolive Company and David Sable, global chief executive officer, Young & Rubicam and UNCF board member. April 2013 The Positive Community

Graduation First Priority on Student Path to Success Bergen Community College Graduation Initiatives Keep Students On Track

n its commitment to student success, Bergen Community College pursues initiatives that add academic support and guidance from orientation to commencement. “The entire campus is focused on keeping our students on the path to graduation,” said President B. Kaye Walter, Ph.D., adding that the College has undertaken several initiatives to provide academic support to keep students in school and help them achieve their goals and dreams. “Whether they plan to pursue their education at a four-year institution, or to enter the workforce, our students who participate in graduation increase their chances of success.” As the state’s largest community college with enrollment of more than 17,000, Bergen offers experienced and talented faculty, and the range of facilities and resources necessary to assist a diverse student population. In addition, to approximately 140 degree and certificate programs, Bergen has succeeded in securing grants that provide academic support for students. One such program, the College’s 1-2-3 Connect is a Title V grant-funded, first-year experience program designed to successfully ease the transition to college with enhanced courses and a personalized support system. 1-2-3 Connect provides summer orientation, one-on-one academic counseling and planning, peer mentoring, customized tutorial services and financial aid assistance.

The program relies on cuttingedge research that supports teaching approaches which are contentbased and career-oriented as it follows students through their first three semesters of college. The Guided Self-Paced Mastery Developmental Math Program, known as the Math Hub, is an example of the resources Bergen brings to this approach. Students may use the Math Hub computers to work at their own pace with faculty staffing the hub to assist them and provide immediate feedback on tests and homework. Bergen Community College is using another $3.8 million federal grant to fund the College’s Graduation Pathways to Success (GPS) initiative, which is addressing the nation’s need for graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, known aggregately as STEM fields. GPS adds academic support with in-class tutors and a STEM Learning and Innovation Laboratory, which STEM students are helping design. The College’s goals are to recruit STEM students; improve their graduation and transfer rates by providing additional academic support; and enable the College to make data-based decisions that improve student outcomes and influence the way it develops new programs. GPS also reflects the College’s focus on educating students in fields that provide opportunities for good jobs. The federal government anticipates STEM job growth (17 percent)

to outpace non-STEM fields (9.8 percent) through 2018. Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce recently found nearly 30 percent of Americans with associate's degrees now make more than those with bachelor's degrees. High demand for people with so-called "middle-skills" often requiring only an associate's degree has pushed up wages for community college graduates, the study found, especially in areas that require a STEM education. CareerBuilder.com, the online job site, reported in January of this year that, with a two-year community college degree, air traffic controllers can make $113,547, radiation therapists $76,627, dental hygienists $70,408, and registered nurses $65,853. Bergen Community College offers degree or certification programs leading to all of these fields as well as transfer programs in STEM fields include Biology (A.S.), Biotechnology (A.S.), Chemistry (A.S.), Engineering Science (A.S.), Environmental Technology (A.A.S) and Manufacturing Technology (A.A.S). Additionally, Bergen Community College opened its Aviation Education Center last fall with plane and helicopter flight simulators. Students interested in aviation can begin their education at Bergen and transfer to a four-year aeronautics college, and move on to a career in airport management, avionics and other skills in demand in an industry that is one northern New Jersey biggest generators of job.

PosComm-0413 3/25/13 1:08 PM Page 1

Bergen Community College

Spring Open Houses and Information Sessions At Bergen Community College, more than 17,000 students enroll in 145 academic degree and certificate programs to prepare for careers and entry to the nation’s best four-year schools. Bergen offers: • Cutting-edge technologies and facilities including the aviation • Three locations, flexible schedules, including new “mideducation center, surgical suite and manufacturing technology semester” schedules, affordable tuition and online courses. programs. • Options for scholarly work through the Dr. Judith K. Winn • Excellent faculty – versed professionals on the nuisances of School of Honors and Phi Theta Kappa. their disciplines, sharing a commitment to making a difference • Transfer agreements with more than 40 colleges and in the lives of Bergen students. universities.

Visit www.bergen.edu to learn more. OPEN HOUSE April 23 • 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

INFORMATION SESSIONS April 15 • 5:00 p.m. NJ STARS April 30 • 5:00 p.m. Health Professions, Nursing Program and Veterinary Technology (for 2014 admission) Paramus Campus 400 Paramus Road, Paramus For additional information, visit www.bergen.edu/tours Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/BergenCommunityCollege.

H A C K E N S A C K

M E A D O W L A N D S

P A R A M U S

Bergen Community College maintains an open admissions policy for college-age adults. Bergen Community College is an equal opportunity institution.

Do Justice. Love Kindness. Walk Humbly. T

he above theme is more than words; it is what rests at the core of the quality education shared in the Theological School at Drew University.

Academically rigorous and spiritually revealing, the Theological School is well into its second century of providing challenging and practical preparation for the Christian ministry while empowering its students to conceive and implement dynamic ministries equipped to handle these demanding times. We demonstrate excellence in academic pursuit with a faculty that is as fine as any in the world. We still share our life on a beautiful campus that is a short trip from New York City and Newark. We worship as a community and honor the prophetic spirit as we celebrate justice-making ministries that transform the world. Our student body is extremely diverse with no one group being the majority. We come from dozens of denominations while maintaining our strong United Methodist connection. We continue to prepare individuals for ordination but also for lay ministries and advanced degrees for teaching and research. We have become a center of theology that preaches and teaches liberation for all people. Our graduates serve urban, suburban and rural congregations, in traditional and non-traditional ministries, while addressing issues of social justice, fairness, diversity and equality. In addition, graduates of the Theological School teach in colleges, universities and seminaries around the world. They have become bishops, pastors, leaders and supervisors in more than 30 denominations in every state of the United States and in over 40 countries. We recognize that it is a major decision to pursue a graduate level of theological education, one requiring faith, sacrifice and resources. Be encouraged. We are here to serve you, and our strong financial aid packages can help in a variety of ways. Drew is cost effective, offering full or partial scholarships to more than 90% of the Theological School degree applicants each year. Students who receive a 50% tuition scholarship pay less in tuition than at many neighboring institutions. The Theological School is very connected to the dream that founded this great institution, and we are confident that we can continue to translate that dream for this third millennium of the followers of Christ. We invite you to join us around the table where together we learn to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly. Rev. Dr. Kevin D. Miller Director of Theological Admissions Pastor, Carter Community AME Church

The Links Incorporated Sponsor S.T.E.M. Education Day

By Alma J. Smith, 2nd Vice President – Programming Central New Jersey Chapter of the Links, Incorporated Kneeling 1st row: L–R: Jason Amaya, Qumir McNeil, Desmond Suarez, Isiah Scotland, Karelis Acosta, Daniel Wells Kneeling/Standing 2nd row: L–R: Millenia Hall, Abbe-Gayle Lebert, Kerron Jackson, Edward Armstrong, Ogechi Ehiobuche, Eddie Rodriguez, Nina Turner, Darwin Carrera, Shaelle Laurent, De’Shauna Valentine; Link Morean Dorsey Standing 3rd row: L–R: Ms. Griffith, Anwar Wilson, Leila Zabi (UNA-NY Board), Senem Simsek (panelist),Zyemah Major, Katherine Mata, Steven Gaitan, Stephany Vargas, Kevon Allen, Link Chonita Spencer, Kamar Brown Standing 4th row: L–R: Link Alma Smith, Link Audrey Williamson, Reedy Figgins (panelist), Jamil Ward, Ann Nicol (ED. Director, UNA-NY) Andrew Rosner (panelist), LaMar Dotch-Good, Ms. Evans, Diamond Spencer, Ms. Pinnock, Kyra Williams, Kenyon Counts Not pictured: Caleb Williams, Chaperone & photographer

40 Seventh Graders visit United Nations Association of America

resh-faced and in excited anticipation, forty seventh grade students from the UC TEAMS (Union County Technology, Engineering, Architecture, Math & Science) Charter School in Plainfield, NJ boarded the bus for a field trip to the United Nations for a S.T.E.M panel discussion and tour of the UN on February 27, 2013, thanks to the Central New Jersey Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, in partnership with the United Nations Association of New York (UNANY). The goal of this trip was to engage and empower students in a discussion on global leadership, diversity, careers and service of the future. The S.T.E.M panel included an engineer, a medical researcher, a corporate engineer and an attorney. Each panelist spoke about their educational journey, aspirations and career choices. Panelists were: Reedy Feggins, Jr., IBM Rational Software; Senem Simsek, Postdoctoral Fellow, Cornell Medical College; Atty. Andrew Rosner, and Ramu Damodaran, (engineer) Deputy Director for Partnerships and Public Engagements at the UNA-NY. As stated in the UNA-NY newsletter “UNA-NY recognizes S.T.E.M - Science, Technology, Engineering and

The Positive Community April 2013

Math – as the national educational initiative for all students that are critical to the U.S. standing and competitiveness in the world. Emphasizing S.T.E.M education, especially to girls, is one of the most important educational efforts the U.S. can make if it hopes to produce college and career –ready students with a capacity to compete globally in leadership, careers, and service throughout the world.” The tour of the UN was equally as educational for the students, as the tour guides explained the purpose of the UN, how many countries comprise the UN, how decisions are made, and the Millennium Development Goals. The UNA-NY challenged the students to learn more about the Millennium Development goals of: (1) achieving universal primary education, (2) reducing child mortality rates, (3) promoting gender equality and empowering women, (4) improving maternal health, (5) combating HIV/Aids/malaria and other diseases, (6) eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, (7) ensuring environmental sustainability and (8) developing a global partnership for development. Continued on page 55 www.thepositivecommunity.com

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3/6/12 4:36 PM

The Brotherhood of

Drew Hall Howard University Alumni recall their years from ’67 to ’71 in a new book by Jeff Burns, Jr.

BY R.L. WITTER

Howard University’s Founders Library and its Clock Tower symbolize the hopes, history and heritage of a great American university.

oward University in Washington, DC has been a huge part of Jeff Burns, Jr.’s life. “I always knew I wanted to go to Howard,” he reflected. “I was clear on that since I was around 11 or 12 years old.” Burns, the son of a man who had not attended college, had big dreams. He knew that education was the pathway to realizing his dreams and that his path began at Howard. “I’d pick up a copy of Ebony, Jet, The Amsterdam News or The Chicago Defender and read about the people doing things.” It seemed to Burns that many of the people who impressed him most had attended an HBCU and Howard University stood out for him. “I decided if they’re going to Howard and making a difference, that’s where I wanted to go.” So in 1967 he was accepted to and enrolled at Howard University (HU). He took up residence in Drew Hall, the dormitory named for Dr. Charles R. Drew, physician, surgeon, Howard University professor and medical researcher whose pioneering work led to the American Red Cross blood banks. The historical significance of Dr. Drew and many Howard

46 The Positive Community

April 2013

alumni was not lost on Burns, “There is no more recognizable or important name in medical research than Dr. Drew,” he explained. “And we lived in a building named for him.” Burns’ acquaintances and experiences at “HU” or “The Mecca” would Jeff Burns, Jr. in the 1960s inform his life and the lives of so many others. Howard not only offered Burns an education, but it offered and he accepted a brotherhood like none he had ever known before. “I don’t have a biological brother,” Burns confessed, “these men are my real brothers . . .” Burns shares his experiences and those of other young men who attended Howard University with him in The Brotherhood of Drew Hall. “It was a different idea for a long time,” he explained. “For years I wanted to share our experiences and inspire young men and women.” It was only within the last two or three years that Burns decided upon the format and www.thepositivecommunity.com

COVERSTORY

content of the book that tells the individual stories of several men who attended Howard with him. “We’ve been friends for 40 or more years now. We’ve been there for each other through each rite of passage and we’re taking this opportunity to do what we’ve all been doing but do it collectively.” The Brotherhood relates the Jeff Burns, Jr. today personal stories of men who met on Howard’s campus between 1967 and 1971 at Drew Hall. A few women share their experiences with the men of the brotherhood. “My first day in Drew Hall,” Burns recalls, “I met brothers who are my best friends and business associates today . . . Those young men came on a mission.” What may very well have seemed like “Mission Impossible” to young men from the segregated south in the midst of racial tension and turbulence, has most definitely been filed under “Mission Accomplished” as they all not only completed their educations and received their degrees, but as a result of their drive, tenacity and commitment to honor themselves and Howard’s storied legacy, they exceeded all expectations and realized their wildest dreams. In photos of young men sporting afros and bell bottom pants, the lives of future movers and shakers in Business, Education, the Arts and other fields are reminisced about and explored by the very people who worked to achieve them. “Everything we did was for a positive purpose,” Burns explained. “Throughout our lives and careers, we’ve sort of overlapped and supported one another . . . we wanted to do something positive and inspirational and out of that came the book with the

Drew Hall, where it all began.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

hope of inspiring young black men…” Burns and his brothers have been involved in community groups and mentoring programs for years. “The book is an extension of things we’ve already been doing.” The names of brothers contributing to the book read like a list of “Who’s Who in Black America,” from Edward T. Welburn, vice president of Global Design at General Motors, to Captain Anthony “Tony” Holder, the HU Engineering graduate who has accumulated more than 22,000 flying hours as a pilot for FedEx, making him one of the most senior and experienced pilots in the world— of any race; and Minister Richard Smallwood, internationally acclaimed Gospel artist and award-winning songwriter who founded the Howard Gospel Choir. The Brotherhood of Drew Hall contains stories from men who have attained professional and personal success, each man’s story more impressive than the last. These were the men who took over the campus’ administration building, were on-air personalities at the HU radio station and studied music under jazz legend Donald Byrd. They are also the men who were not only determined to succeed for themselves, but for their families and communities and have made good on those promises with volunteer and mentoring work, scholarships and community activism. And they continue to give back by sharing their stories and striving to motivate future generations to emulate and duplicate their success. “Young black men all want to be a rapper or an athlete today. We’re taking a look at where we were at their ages [compared with] where the young men are today,” Burns explained. “This brotherhood could only happen at an HBCU and we want others to experience what we did. Architects, engineers, pilots, educators—these are people who design and build skyscrapers, they design cars and see them come to market. How many people actually get to do that?” And it all started at Howard University. Burns remains committed to Howard University and currently serves as vice chairman of the John H. Johnson School of Communications. “I feel like I never really left Howard,” Burns revealed. “I’ve been active from the day I arrived through to this very moment . . .” He continued, “I’m committed to the cause and I’m really no different from any of the other people in the book.” Burns and his brothers continue to support and make proud their alma mater and the thousands of other Howard University students and alumni. They are truly living the words of Howard’s alma mater anthem: When from thee we’ve gone away/May we strive for thee each day/As we sail life’s rugged sea, O Howard, we’ll sing of thee. April 2013 The Positive Community

Rev. Lester Taylor, host pastor

GBCNJ Annual Scholarship Luncheon

L–R: Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, president GBCNJ with Rev. George Blackwell III

L–R: First Lady Helena Blackwell, Auxiliary President Jackie Carter and Sis. Janet Powell

Sis. Lillian Bullock Mistress of Ceremonies

L–R: First Lady Betty Williams, Min. Louise Roundtree with First L–R: First Lady Betty Williams, Min. Louise Lady Sandra Graves Roundtree with First Lady Sandra Graves Photos: Vincent Bryant

nder the leadership of Women’s Auxiliary President Jackie Carter, Sister Helena Blackwell, luncheon chair and Sis. Martha H. Tuner-Riddick, scholarship awards chair, The General Baptist Convention of New Jersey (GBCNJ) celebrated their annual Scholarship Luncheon at Community Baptist Church in Englewood. A powerful message was delivered by Rev. Jeffery Bryan, pastor of the Tabernacle B.C. in Newark, NJ.

L–R: First Lady Dorothy Campbell with Deaconess Doris Bryant

L–R: First Lady Sharon James, Sis. Joyce Smalls and Jackie Carter

L–R: Grand Jubilee Committee volunteer, Karen Waters with Sis. Michelle R. Turner

Harvest of Hope

The Positive Community April 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Is education a priority in your family? Parents are a child’s first teachers. That’s why it is important for families to set a positive tone for student success. Here are some simple ways parents can show their children that school matters. Make homework a priority – Set aside time each night to review your child’s homework. Ask him or her to explain it to you and share encouraging words. Demonstrate the power of reading – Make sure you have plenty of books, magazines, and other reading materials in your home. Make sure your child sees you reading for pleasure. Eat together – Today’s families are busy with work and activities. Find at least one or two meals a week – breakfast or dinner, or maybe even an evening snack – where your family can spend time talking about what your child is learning in school without the distraction of television or electronics. Plan for the school day – Keep a consistent bed time for children and make sure they are ready to start the school day on a positive note. Before calling it a night, make sure schoolbags are packed and school clothes are selected to avoid morning drama.

NJEA knows that when families and schools work together, our children are the winners!

New Jersey Education Association… working for great public schools for every child. Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vince Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/ Research Director

United Way Celebrity Read

To find out more about the Celebrity Read Program go to www.uwewh.org/news-and-events/united-way-events/ celebrity-read/

If Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Ready to Buy a Home, We are ready to Help.

Karol Corbin Walker, Heywood School, Orange.

Photos: Barry Gray

nited Way of Essex and West Hudson completed another successful Celebrity Read initiative. In its 23rd year, Celebrity Read had over 200 volunteers read to almost 6,000 students in 20 primary and elementary public schools in East Orange, Irvington, Newark and Orange. Created in 1990, Celebrity Read is a "local legacy" initiative that recruits volunteers from throughout New Jersey to model their love of reading and the pursuit of education as a pathway to success in local elementary classrooms. Celebrity Reader Karol Corbin Walker at the Heywood School in Orange, NJ believes that everyone can be a "celebrity" in the life of a child and we encourage those who want to be positively engaged with our communities' youth to become Celebrity Readers. This year's readers visited a school site in the morning, read aloud with students and answered questions about their profession while encouraging the children to read and get an education. Volunteer readers crossed a variety of occupations and came from many communities.

Tanya Matthews, Speedway School, Newark.

Jerome Wakefield, Belmont Runyon School, Newark.

Angela Ridenour, of the Positive Community

The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers: up to $15,000.00 Down Payment Assistance 1-800-382-HOME(4663)

www.sonyma.org

The Positive Community April 2013

for Housing

Bobo the Clown aka Jim Robinson, Grove Street School, Irvington www.thepositivecommunity.com

Labor Asks: Where Are We Now? A. Phillip Randolph Institute Hosts Forum









he Metro New York Chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) held a forum, “Voices of Blacks in Labor,” on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 at the United Federation of Teachers’ Albert Shanker Hall in Manhattan. The event was a prelude to the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963 when hundreds of thousand attended the historic event where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. Questions that were addressed included, “What role did labor play in the 1963 march and civil rights movement? Where are we now—50 years later?” Speakers included NYC Comptroller John Liu, 1199 President George Gresham, Secretary/Treasurer of 32BJ Kyle Bragg, and NYC APRI President Anthony Harmon.

The Positive Community April 2013

 NYC APRI President Anthony Harmon, explains the purpose of the town hall.

 L-R: Anthony Harmon, George Gresham, Hazel Dukes,

NYS NAACP president; Norman Hill, APRI president emeritus; Donald Afflick, president NYC Coalition of Black Trade Unions (CBTU) CBTU

 John Liu addresses members at the A. Philip Randolph Institute Town Hall

 Local 1199 President George Gresham talks to the audience about the importance of community and labor partnerships

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dordy Jourdain and staff at the YMCA: L–R: Osei Doyle, Swim coach; Donna Hackett, parent; Areial Mathis, Communications coordinator; Dordy Jourdain, executive director; Anderson Seales, Aquatics director; and Monique Jenkins, parent Brandon Stanton

Photos: Glenda Cadogan

Bed-Stuy Y Kids to Get Summer Camp Local Photographer Raises Over $100,000 in Donations By Glenda Cadogan

n 1905, the Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA set its roots in this urban section of Brooklyn, which for many years was known as the cultural capital of the Borough. Its motto: “We are here for good.” Its story is one of perseverance and community empowerment. And through all the changing scenes of the past 100-plus years, the “Y” has remained a constant. The Bedford “Y” triumphed during the race riots of the 60’s when many businesses were looted and destroyed. It prevailed through the tumultuous 70’s when “Bed-Stuy, do-or-die” became the area’s battle cry. It survived through 2000 when gentrification changed the face of the community. In this latest story, the “Y” is once again victorious, this time with the aid of a street photographer. Though this story was birthed in what could have been a controversy, its end result is one of triumph. The direct beneficiaries are 300 kids who will have an opportunity to participate in the Y’s summer camp, many of them on full scholarship or subsidized tuition. This is made possible with an initial donation of $25,000 from clothing retailer DKNY matched by an additional $100,000 from community residents.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The reason for it all is Brandon Stanton, a street photographer who operates the popular Humans of New York website (www.humansofnewyork.com). According to information Stanton posted on social media sites, DKNY initially approached him with an offer of $15,000 for the use of some of his pictures. Stanton declined. However, in February he learned that several of his images were on display at a DKNY storefront in Bangkok. Instead of going the suit route with the potential of earning a huge settlement, Stanton took the high road and asked that the company donate $100,000 in his name to the Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA where he is a member. In an interview with Metro US News Stanton explained his decision this way: “I imagined all the bad energy that would come into my life if I did [that] ...creating enemies, depositions and meeting with lawyers.” DKNY responded with a $25,000 donation to the Y. Many called it a victory. Not Brandon Stanton. He was impassioned about what he saw as an opportunity to provide more kids an opportunity to enjoy a summer camp. He took to social media and challenged his half million followers to help raise the money. In

72 hours $103,710 was raised for the Bedford Y. “I've always felt that the YMCA was an important community center, especially in an economically diverse neighborhood such as Bed-Stuy,” Stanton told The Positive Community. “It serves to provide a source of stability and accountability in the lives of hundreds of children and I feel that these are some of the most important building blocks of a community. As a member at the Bed-Stuy YMCA, I was thrilled to be able to support an organization whose contributions to society I see on a daily basis.” Dordy Jourdain is executive director of the Bed-Stuy Y and his enthusiasm matches that of the people who helped raise the money. “I give an incredible amount of credit to Brandon for feeling that the Bedford YMCA is worthy of his support,” said Jourdain. “The fact that he feels what we are doing is beneficial to the development of young people is encouraging.” The Y has always provided financial assistance to families in need. However this donation gives them an opportunity to do even more. “What this money does is give a lot more children the opportunity to participate in a summer camp that Continued on page 55 April 2013 The Positive Community

Saving Souls and Minds Many HBCUs Founded by Religious Denominations

e’ve come a long way. Sure, we still have a long way to go, but consider how far we’ve come already. There was a time in the United States of America when it was illegal to teach black people to read. Slave owners worried that the ability to read and write would contribute to ideas of uprising amongst slaves and passed laws to keep them illiterate. When slaves were originally transported to the Americas, slave merchants calculatingly mixed them onboard the slave ships to minimize the number who spoke the same language or dialect for fear that the ability to effectively communicate might lead them to the realization that they greatly outnumbered their captors and get the idea to mutiny. But we of African descent have always been clever beyond the credit given us. We learned to communicate among various languages and dialects as well as the languages of our abductors. We learned to read and write English at our own peril. We learned in “pit schools” that were literally classes held in pits dug out in the woods, far from the masters’ surveillance. The phrase “keep it under your hat” dates back to times when slaves would hide reading materials under their hats, exposing them only to sympathetic people who might teach them a letter or word. Many black children carried schoolbooks for their masters’ children, then sat beneath schoolhouse windows, attempting to follow the lessons. But slaves reading, reflection and ability to write posed a threat to slaveholders and their way of life. What if a slave read about insurrection and felt inspired? What if a slave could forge a pass or freedom

54 The Positive Community

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BY R.L. WITTER

papers? The power of education was so feared that states passed legislation on top of legislation to combat and prohibit the education of black people. Not only did most southern states penalize those involved in educating people of color with monetary fines, but punishment up to 100 lashes to the back was often added. Both Delaware and Mississippi required that black preachers receive permission from a judge or justice of the peace before speaking in front of a congregation. Alabama passed a law that fined anyone educating slaves between $250 and $500, and prohibited any assembly of African Americans—slave or free—unless five slave owners were present or an African American preacher who had previously been licensed by an approved denomination. Mississippi even went so far as to order that all freed people of color had to leave the state so as not to incite or educate the slave population. Eventually, we were allowed the privilege of education, but we were mostly left to our own devices. While white children went to sturdy schoolhouses or had tutors come to teach them, we often relied upon the “each one, teach one” brotherhood to impart knowledge and instruction. And we most often found that brotherhood in church. Before black people had access to public schools, churches were responsible for teaching thousands of African Americans to read and write. What began with catechism and rote memorization of scripture quickly evolved into full-fledged reading. Northern missionaries travelled south to teach slaves and free persons of color to read the Bible and religious pamphlets. Those students then passed along their knowledge to Continued on page 84

www.thepositivecommunity.com

LINKS

BED-STUY YMCA

Prior to the visit to the UN, the students participated in a four week readiness session on Student Leadership and Diversity Training. The training sessions were developed by Link Chonita Spencer, chair of International Trends and Services of the Central New Jersey Chapter and a Board member of the UNA-NY Education Committee. Chonita volunteered each week with the students so that they would be well prepared for the panel discussion on S.T.E.M. The post activity for the UC TEAMS Charter School is to embrace an international initiative of The Links, Incorporated, “The Survival of Haiti.” Members of The Central New Jersey Chapter of the Links, Incorporated have the determination and the compassion to render programs and services, leading students to set their sights on discovery, as we deliver the skills and competencies that will build student leadership today for global careers tomorrow. The Chapter’s vision, in alignment with national programs, is to inspire future leaders to not only discover their own talents, interests and creativity, but through S.T.E.M. education, self-discover and set goals in a global society to embrace S.T.E.M. careers now and in the future. The Central New Jersey Chapter of the Links, Incorporated is pleased to have developed an ongoing relationship with the UNA-NY and the UC TEAMS Charter School over the past four years. These collaborations allow them to implement national initiatives of the Links, Inc., such as S.T.E.M Education, in an organized and sustainable manner.

bridges the gap in summer learning. In addition, some children will have the opportunity to attend YMCA sleep away camp.” But even the 300 preteens and teens who will be camping at the Bedford YMCA will have an opportunity to see the world. “Around the World in 62 Days” is the theme of this year’s camp. The aim, according to Jourdain, is to give the young campers a world perspective. “With innovative field trips we aim to help camp participants gain a better understanding of various cultures,” he said With parents and politicians clamoring for more recreational facilities to help combat dissident behavior in urban areas, area residents seeking alternatives to street life, are looking at the Y. So Jourdain’s vision is to “make the YMCA a beacon of light in the community.” He has spent all of his professional life with YMCA starting at the front desk at the Harlem Y 20 years ago. And as a resident of Bed-Stuy, he has a stake in both the institution and the community. “In 2006 we completed renovation of the old building. Since then there has been a tremendous change, as it seems we were a fresh face to a community that needs it. The equipment is up-to-date and the facility is shining, but most important is that the people in it shine as well,” he concluded Brandon Stanton is one of those people. To him, the Bedford-Stuyvesant Y is “…a shelter, a haven and a school.” His hope is a simple but clear one: “That this money helps provide some levity and enjoyment to local kids.”

Continued from page 44

Continued from page 53

Our mission is to enhance and simplify the lives of adults. We aim to enrich their lives by improving their skills In financial matters, managing health care issues, discovering housing opportunities. for needy persons and providing expert assistance for the completion of paperwork.

Our programs include:

523 Park Avenue, Orange, NJ 07050 973-673-6854 • center-parkave.org Executive Director: Gary Palker www.thepositivecommunity.com

English as a Second Language Business & Entrepreneurship Introduction to QuickBooks Career Development Public Speaking • Microsoft Excel PowerPoint • Finance April 2013 The Positive Community

Handing Over Holiness In Answer to Community Ills COGIC Conference Brings Message of Hope COGIC Jurisdictional Prelate Bishop Norman L. Prescott

By Quinita Edmonia Good

ew Jersey’s 3rd Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), the jurisdiction that covers Newark and Irvington, began its 2013 Spring Conference with a message of hope in holiness, March 18–March 24, at Wells Cathedral COGIC in Newark in answer to the challenges that face the community. A series of inspirational and charged sermons, women’s workshops and youth presentations reached a crescendo on Thursday with a message by Evangelist Louise Graham of the church’s Central Jurisdiction.

Graham, a graduate of Manhattan Bible College and a great COGIC supporter, is known as a spoken-word minister. “Desperate times call for desperate measures,” claimed Graham as she referred to Jocabed, Miriam, and Pharaoh’s daughter—the three women who saved Moses from destruction under Pharaoh’s edict to kill all Hebrew first-borns. Comparing that bible time to today’s challenging times in the urban community, Graham related that today’s children are victims of drugs, molestation, and unsafe schools, but that God can be a protective refuge for

them and their families. “We are “troubled on every side, but not forsaken,” proclaimed Graham. COGIC’s New Jersey 3rd Women’s Department Supervisor Vivian B. Wooden agreed with Graham and echoed that a call to holiness would erase many of the trials that confront women today. Wooden, a senior citizen, says she has never been to a movie or a dance but has dedicated her life to missions and working for the church. “Having trust in God will protect one from doubts,” said Continued on page 86

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The Positive Community April 2013

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Lâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;R: Dr. Mehmet Oz, Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, United States Ambassadorat-Large for International Religious Freedom and New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn

Health P r e v e n t i o n , T r e at m e n t & C u r e

Women of Faith Connect Spirituality and Health

By Florene Wiley

Christine Quinn and Inez Dickens host Women of Faith Breakfast

Photos: William Alatriste, New York City Council

he mid-March morning started cold and blustery, and the ladies put on their heavy cloth and fur armor and made their way to a once a year event they knew would be warm and welcoming: the Sixth Annual Women of Faith Breakfast presented by New York City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn and Assistant Deputy Majority Leader Inez E. Dickens. Held for the third year

www.thepositivecommunity.com

at Union Theological Seminary in Harlem, this March 14th power breakfast featured a keynote address by Dr. Mehmet Oz, host of the Dr. Oz Show and vice-chair and professor of Surgery at Columbia University. The capacity crowd of 250 women of faith was treated to breakfast and inspiring words of wisdom from several highly esteemed Continued on page 85 April 2013 The Positive Community

Go Red For Women Michellene Davis, Esq. Sr. VP Barnabas Health

L–R: Shivuan Gaines, Office of the President, Montclair State University; Christopher Cannara, director of Cardiovascular Services, Hackensack UMC - Mountainside Hospital and Margaret Cammareri, Regional VP, Health Equity/Multicultural Initiatives New Jersey /New York Metro Area American Heart Association|American Stroke Association

L–R: Tiffany Smith, UMDNJ/ University Hospital and Deborah Witcher Jackson,former president, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Bergen-Passaic Chapter, Inc.

L–R: Terrence Byrd, president and Aviva Woog, Outreach representative, HealthFirst

Samuel A. Delgado VP External Affairs Verizon

Steve Adubato, Ph.D. TV host, journalist

Photos: Maurice McCoy

L–R: Michellene Davis, Barry H. Ostrowsky, Esq., CEO BarnabasHealth and Tracy Munford, VP, Public Relations and Community Affairs, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

L–R: Julane Miller-Armbrister, SVP for Public Affairs UMDNJ/University Hospital, Jeannine LaRue, business and government affairs consultant, Robin Rison-McCoy RN, founding member African Americans for Health Awareness (AAHA)

cores of women in red descended on Nanina’s in the Park in Belleville, NJ on February 28, 2013 for the Fourth Annual American Heart Association (AHA) Northern New Jersey Go Red For Women Luncheon. Now in its 10th year, the life-changing Go Red For Women movement has saved the lives of 627,000 women, according to AHA. Because heart disease and stroke are the number one and number four killers affecting more women than men and because heart disease is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined, the luncheon was designed as a celebration of the success of the Go Red For Women movement and a day of education, empowerment, networking, resources, and life. The Go Red For Women luncheon celebrates the energy, passion and power of women, and men, to band together to wipe out heart disease and stroke.

The Positive Community April 2013

L–R: Marjorie Perry, CEO, MZN Contruction and Linda Bowden, president PNC Bank

Michellene Davis, SVP for Policy Development and Government Affairs for Barnabas Health, was 2013 luncheon chair and served as mistress of ceremonies. Mikki Taylor, founder and president of Mikki Taylor Enterprises, LLC, former Beauty & Cover director at Essence and current editor-at-large for the publication, was keynote speaker. Heart attack survivor Renee Tucker’s moving recollection of her experience was both eye-opening and inspiring. Calvin W. Souder, Esq. of Patton Boggs LLP is chair of Northern New Jersey Men Go Red. Nancy Brown is CEO of he American Heart Association. For more information and to learn how you can become involved in the Go Red for Women movement visit www.goredforwomen.org. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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PHILIP M. BONAPARTE M.D. ON CALL

Chief Medical Officer, Horizon NJ Health/Officer of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and Vice President of Clinical Affairs

We Can Stop the Violence Q: I have really been worried lately about the violence I hear about in the community. It seems as if every day I read about someone shot to death throughout New Jersey, New York or Pennsylvania. And the national tragedies we have had to endure, such as that in Newtown, Connecticut in December, make me feel even more despair. What can be done? What should we do? A: First of all, I can only join you in praying and mourning for those precious children who lost their lives in Newtown, as well as the other young people in our communities who continue to lose their lives through violence. These are truly heartbreaking experiences for any parent and any concerned human being, for that matter. In America, more than 31,000 people die of gun violence every year. The Newtown incident showed—again— that violence is, indeed, not unique to any community or group. As we saw in Connecticut and continue to see in other places, no area, no matter how affluent or thought to be safe, is immune. And violence in general, but gun violence especially, has become more and more a part of our national discussion on a daily basis. President Obama and Congress are taking up the discussion as well. The plague of violence has hit hard in New Jersey and nearby as well. Since 2010, and continuing early in 2013, there have been increases in shootings and gun-related deaths in cities such as Camden, Trenton, Irvington and Newark, as well as nearby Philadelphia. Victims of violence who survive,

60 The Positive Community

April 2013

and their families, celebrate life, but they also face daunting challenges. Too many of our young people are in wheelchairs because they are paraplegic or quadriplegic. They face painful hospitalization, rehabilitation and therapy for the rest of their lives. Many young people lose the opportunity to work and to raise families, and their life expectancy decreases. The physical impact of violence—gunshot wounds, stab wounds, car accidents— on individuals is easily seen, but also increases other aspects of public health, both physical and mental. People in violent communities live under high levels of stress, which can also lead to increased hypertension and heart disease. They fear for their safety. They don’t leave their homes, which leads to them being more sedentary, because they don’t get enough exercise, and that can also lead to heart disease and diabetes. Similarly, violence affects mental health of victims, their families, and the community as well. It is psychologically traumatizing to the people who experience it. There is often very little difference between the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced by victims of urban violence and the PTSD that combat soldiers bring home with them from places like Afghanistan and Iraq. This is obvious to many of us living in, working with and treating people in our urban communities. Too often, it is believed that violence in America is a problem best dealt with by law enforcement. But even police officials, prosecutors and judges will say that

violence is not a problem that will be solved by the cops. We have to explore and deal with violence—and its effects on our society—as a preventable public health problem. We have to figure out the best ways to employ innovative social services to deal with the effects of poverty and hopelessness in an effort to keep children—vulnerable now and in the future—from falling into the same repetitive cycle of violence. There are steps that have been taken. In Boston and Chicago, law enforcement, youth social workers, doctors and academics have united to try to deal with the problems brought on by violence. Police and probation officers monitor gang-affiliated men’s compliance with probation orders, while doctors treat and counsel men who have been shot or otherwise injured in violent incidents. All have tried to come up with ways to prevent gun violence, and crime rates have gone down—somewhat. The key risk factors are the role of trauma, lack of employment opportunities, and gun availability. It is older adults, especially adult males, who can act as mentors to young men without fathers or other role models, who can be positive factors in dealing with violence. It will take a huge effort for all of us to make a significant, permanent impact on the problem of violence, but as a parent I can tell you that one thing that has been lacking and is necessary is for fathers to take a more active role in the lives of their children. Boys–and girls—need fathers as well as mothers to raise them to be responsible, contributing adults. www.thepositivecommunity.com

“We know our community. We live here.” Dr Philip Bonaparte, Chief Medical Officer, Horizon NJ Health “I feel the need to make a difference, not only in my life, but in the lives of others. I am involved in health issues facing predominantly the African-American and Latino community. I understand what it’s like to come from humble backgrounds. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield lives in New Jersey and we believe in access to quality healthcare for every resident. To me......it’s as important as breathing air.”

Horizon NJ Health can help you and your family, too. If you are uninsured, enroll in our NJ FamilyCare or NJ FamilyCare Advantage plans. To see if you’re eligible, call 1-877-4-KIDS-NJ.

Horizon NJ Health Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ® Registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®’ and SM Registered and service marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2011 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

Kahlil Carmichael is the Pastor and Founder of It Is Well Living Church located in Monroe, NJ. He is the CEO of the Fitness Doctor Inc., a Fitness Rehabilitation and Wellness Consultation company. To contact Kahlil to become spiritually and physically fit visit www.itiswellchurch.com or call 732-921-3746

A Fool Gone Wild really dislike April Fools’ Day. I call April Fools’ Day “the national day of telling lies.” While I look forward to spring and am excited about walking in newness of life through the resurrection, something about “April Fools’ Day” rubs me the wrong way. The premise behind this first day in April is to tell someone a lie, make the person believe the lie is true, and then reveal to the individual you were just joking and they were a fool to believe and trust you. It kind of reminds me of “get fit quick” advice. Fitness equipment, nutritional supplements, and many health and wellness products have been pitched to people who simply want to get healthier. I have seen everything from special health juice that promotes relief from the pain associated with arthritis and joint problems, to claims of a “special juice” being a curative remedy for diabetes. I have witnessed good people believe the testimony of paid actors on infomercials who falsely testify of obtaining six pack abs within a month. And who can forget the famous fad diets that allow you to gluttonously consume meat and fat to lose weight. People who simply want to be healthy are deceived and fooled by people who don’t play fair and definitely forget to say April Fool! We all have been there. We want results without the hard work and discipline required to lose weight, get fit and transform physically. I once gave way and succumbed to the promise of healthy living and optimal fitness by way of a magical foreign juice from an exotic island. April Fool! The truth of the matter is that nothing beats consistent exercise, proper nutrition, and prayer to improve physically. Proverbs 15:14 says that the heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on foolishness. As we begin to walk in this new season of spring, I want to encourage you to seek reliable

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April 2013

fitness, health, and wellness advice from reputable sources. Ask God to direct your path and impart wisdom to you so you might avoid foolishness and live well. As I often declare, there are no quick fix remedies for optimal fitness, spiritual growth, and living well. It’s all about discipline! No kidding. Here are some methods for living well that I created and often share with my church family as well as a fitness truth from a reliable resource, WebMD.com. There is a divine method for living well. The ingredients needed to evoke the process of living well are: • A renewed mind through Christ • A God perspective on life • Unconditional love, faith, hope, humility, and forgiveness • The discipline to pray, exercise, and eat healthy • Godly wisdom (which is the principle thing) From Fitness Truth, Courtesy of WebMD.COM: Exercise is a must for weight maintenance. “I come back to this over and over and over,” James O. Hill, PhD, director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the University of Colorado at Denver, says. “You can’t find very many people maintaining a healthy weight who aren’t regular exercisers. What we find is that people who focus on diet aren’t very successful in the long run without also focusing on physical activity.” Hill warns that people can be “wildly successful temporarily” at losing weight through diet alone. But there’s plenty of data that show that those people regain the weight if they aren’t physically active. Timothy Church, MD, director of preventive medicine research at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, LA says, “When it comes to weight, you can’t talk about diet alone, and you can’t talk about exercise alone. You absolutely have to address both issues at the same time.” 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

Questions about how memory works? Want to learn how to lead a brain healthy life? Grace Baptist Church • Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor Health Ministries of Grace Presents

Staying Sharp

Ask the experts about keeping your brain young

A FREE discussion and Q&A on the aging brain, memory, and brain health issues that affect the African American and Black community. Saturday, May 4, 2013 • 9–11AM Grace Baptist Church One Grace Plaza

52 South Sixth Avenue Mount Vernon, New York 10550 Our panel of experts:

Desiree Byrd, PhD

Christopher Edwards, PhD

Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY

Director, Chronic Pain Management Unit, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC

Patrick A. Griffith, MD, FAAN

André A. Fenton, PhD

Professor, Clinical Medicine, Chief of Neurology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA

New York University, Center for Neural Science, New York, NY

It’s FREE! Registration is required. Call 1-877-926-8300 Space is limited, so register today! No food allowed in the sanctuary but a box lunch “to go” will be provided. Westchester County

LIVABLE COMMUNITIES A Vision for All Ages–

Bringing People and Places Together

This Staying Sharp presentation is supported by a generous grant from the

By Evangelist Pamela Harrison

Ms. Vieshia Maroles, JNCRI-Newark JN medical case manager

Prayers for the Healing of AIDS

“O

Friends and supporters

ften, we struggle through our differences and far too many times, we retreat and live behind walls that divide us from our fellow believers,” said Pernessa Seele, founder and CEO of The Balm in Gilead and creator of the National Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS. “Prayer is mystical truth of divine love that is common to all believers,” she proclaimed, inviting all believers to step forward into the circle of prayer and education for the healing of AIDS. It was based on that offer that K.I.S.S.L.O.M. invited the Northern New Jersey area community to join together at a National Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS luncheon at the Mountainside Inn in Clifton, NJ on March 8, 2013. And so it was that positive people from Passaic, Essex and Bergen Counties came together to encourage and pray for persons living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. The HIV virus is not concerned with race, color, creed or culture, and today there are over one million Americans living with AIDS. According to former President Bill Clinton "This is everybody's problem; we cannot escape each other.” K.I.S.S.L.O.M. urges everyone to know their status—get tested— and pray daily to rid the earth of the scourge of AIDS. Celebrating over 23 years of service, The Balm In Gilead develops educational and training programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of African American and African congregations that strive to become community centers for health education and disease prevention. The organization is known throughout the United States and Africa for its insightful understanding of

The Positive Community April 2013

religious cultures and values and extraordinary ability to build strong, trusted partnerships with faith communities. K.I.S.S.L.O.M. is proud to be one of those partners. At the luncheon, Newark's Minister James Bogat read the Word and prayed; mistress of ceremonies Minister Shelia Epps Williams witnessed in song, and the Silver Steppers of East Orange, NJ performed. Supporters included: Bragg Funeral Home, Madonna Funeral Home, John's Barber Shop, Cozy Frierson, Rene Griggs, and Min. Ashley L. Griggs who prayed for young people; Paula White, from Grace Bible Class Church; Zakiyyah P. Porter; Shanya Alston; Biennia Campbell; Rev. Mary & Dee Dennis Medlock of Second Timothy B.C., who prayed for families; Kathy Sharpe; Rev. Staffer Miller of St. Phillips prayed; Donnis Cureton; Cynthia Guzman of Hyacinth AIDS Foundation of Paterson NJ and Min. Lauren Nance of Nance Communications, who gave a powerful opening prayer. Judge and Deacon Corrine Grooms of Calvary B.C. in Garfield prayed for the elderly and gave the benediction. Finally, we wish blessings for the National Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS all over the world. For K.I.S.S.L.O.M. I am thankful to the positive people of the community who helped make this event successful. To the glory of God in the name of Jesus Christ. Evangelist Pamela Harrison is a member of Walking Word Ministry Church International, Debra and Michael Price, of Kernersville, NC pastors . She is an advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS and those affected by disease— families, caretakers, healthcare providers www.thepositivecommunity.com

proudly co-sponsored the 3rd Annual

Saluting Women’s History Month 2013

in concert with

proudly co-sponsored the 3rd Annual

N At i o N A l U r b A N HeAltH CoNfereNCe 2

87 1. Naomi Griﬃn,

N At i o N A l U r b A N HeAltH CoNfereNCe 2

receives the 2013 Dr. Muriel Petioni Health Pioneer Award from (l)

Patricia ricketts, the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, last year’s recipient Hon. Hazel Dukes, NYS NAACP, and linda Walton, Harlem Arts Alliance at the NUHC Gala Awards reception at Harlem Hospital Center 2. Alan Aviles, NYC Health & Hospitals Corporation, receives the Special Service to New York Award and Dr. lenora fulani, All-Stars Project “Cops & Kids” receives the outstanding Youth Services Award at the Gala

3. Dr. Jo ivey bouﬀord, New York Academy of Medicine (l) receives the international

linda Walton, Harlem Arts Alliance at the NUHC 4. Adriane Gaines, WWrl-AM (c) received the regional Health Media Award from Deon levingston, WblS.fM, and tony rogers, Harlem News Group 5. Visitors to the NUHC Public Health fair at the A. C. Powell, Health Service Award presented by

Women’s Health Conference at the riverside Church

Jr. State oﬃce building received excellent information, and health giveaways

6. Simone-Marie Meeks, New York Academy of Medicine presents at the NUHC Healthy Aging Conference 7. Angie Hancock, experience:HArleM and broadway Producer, irene

Co-Founder,

Gandy addresses packed attendees at the Women’s Health Conference Jackie rowe-Adams (c) and Members of Harlem Mothers

S.A.V.e. receives the 2013 Service to New York Award at the Anti-Gun Violence 9Conference 9. Youth from Harlem GoJu School of Martial Arts perform

at Harlem Hospital Center f

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April 2013 The Positive Community

Culture L i f e , M u s i c , A r t & L i t e r at u r e

Stop the Funeral!

By Jean Nash Wells

New play based on the theme of Luke 7:11-17 seeks solutions to violence

ishop Donald Hilliard, released his book Stop the Funeral, in 2000. He was concerned about the violence among black males, the results of which he witnesses all too often, officiating at dozens of funerals of black boys and young men. Hilliard, the senior pastor of Cathedral International with over 5,000 members in three New Jersey locations—Perth Amboy, Plainfield and Asbury Park—sought to bring awareness to the problem and seek accountability and solutions. Thirteen years later, Hilliard is continuing his crusade—indeed, it has become a movement— to stop the funerals, to save the lives of black men and boys. Biblically, the theme comes from Luke 7:11-17 in which Jesus stops the funeral of a young boy, and brings him back to life. Hilliard, hopes to “awaken the sleeping church and community,” this time through a different medium—theater. He is the executive producer of the play, Stop the Funeral, based on his book, and adapted for the stage by writer Fernandel Almonor, who is also directing. Gospel singer turned actor, Marvin Sapp is featured. The play confronts the devastation that gun violence is having on America’s youth. The story features All-American high school football

The Positive Community April 2013

star Dante Jackson, who is pressured to support his father’s booming hip hop funeral home business equipped with rapping preachers and bling encrusted caskets. Dante is soon impacted by the violence that is fueling their fortunes. He must decide to abandon his father or abandon his values. “The role of family and faith are all critically important,” Hilliard told mycentraljersey.com. “We must arise now to ‘stop the funeral’ in our youth, the funeral in our loved ones, the funeral in our heart and mind, and the funeral in our homes and churches. We need to speak up, step up and stop it.” Stop the Funeral is being produced to create a sense of urgency to help transform the mindset of teens who are fixated on violence. In addition it will leave adults questioning what responsibility they share in addressing the rising death toll that is destroying America’s urban youth. The production is designed to help motivate, cultivate and inspire youth. A recent Sunday morning at the Cathedral in Perth Amboy, was themed “Stop The Funeral Sunday.” The hope for the success of the movement was embodied in the christening of two baby boys. As he raised the innocent babies to the heavens asking for God’s blessings

on them, Bishop Hilliard remarked that he was, “Christening the future.” “It is my prayer,” Bishop Hilliard said, “that this play will be the catalyst to create an awakening. It is a call to action for the youth who will see it…that they will realize the devastation of gun violence upon their families, friends, and communities and get involved to stop the funeral. The vision for adults is to rethink their roles and responsibilities and become more engaged in helping to stop the funeral that is claiming their loved ones, neighbors, and communities. Stop the Funeral will be coming to other cities around the country to spread the message.” During the play, Stop the Funeral Productions will present scholarships to the following: The Honorable Cory Booker, Mayor of Newark for a city program to assist young black men with mentorship and employment skills; Scholarship to the Cathedral International youth program that assists young black men; Sandy Hook Elementary, grade K-1 for an Arts and Craft program and a local battered women’s shelter (to be announced). The play runs for one night only, Friday, April 19 at 8:00 p.m. at Union Performing Arts Center in Rahway, NJ. For more information visit www.upac. com or www.stopthefuneral.com. www.thepositivecommunity.com

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

NJPAC has it ALL

Dozens of extraordinary experiences to choose from and you’re invited! Jersey Moves! Dance Festival 4/27

As seen on America’s Got Talent

Traces

Theater Meets Circus

5/4

Family 4-Pack $100* *

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Let the Spirit Move You: Espiritismo in Puerto Rico Dr. Marta Vega 5/4

Earth, Wind & Fire 5/3

Newark Boys Chorus 5/5

Will Downing Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater 5/10 –5/12 ®

with special guest Gerald Albright A Mother’s Day Celebration

5/12

Whoopi Goldberg 6/6

For tickets and full 2013 spring schedule visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC One Center Street, Newark, NJ

PosivtiveComm_7x9.5_Apr_colorad.indd 1

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The Positive Community April 2013

m e ric a n H e

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Af ra

ach year the AAHPC gives thanks for God’s grace and mercy in sustaining this community institution another year. The organization presents In The Spirit Explosive Spiritual Concert in March. The event was well attended and the spiritual uplift inspired all who came together. This year’s theme will focus on the principle, “Healing Our Spiritual Divide,” through dance, song, music and a spiritual message that mirrors culture and creates community awareness. On March 17th, praise, voices and dance were lifted up to the glory of God at the Annual Spiritual Concert sponsored by Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, at Clinton Memorial AMEZ Church. Those performing included: Minister Steve & Levitical Friends Keisha Cole Jubilee Choir Union Chapel AME Master Tremaine • Marcel Brooks Marcus & Cynthia Purdie Dance Ministry Union Chapel and others

In The Spirit Explosive Spiritual Concert It’s Coming!

C o m m i tt e e

The 47th

Anniversary Celebration Memorial Day Weekend 2013 Newark, New Jersey

African American Heritage Statewide Parade & Festival

Featuring: Carnival Rides • Marching Bands Giant and Historic Balloons • Ethnic Garb • Pony Rides Skydivers • Celebrities • College Fair • Health Pavilion Vendors • Live Entertainment

& much, much more!

PREMIER

SPONSOR

HERITAGE CELEBRATION 2013

ANCHOR SPONSOR HERITAGE CELEBRATION 2013

To participate or volunteer please contact Don Bernard Sr. at (973) 202-4117 or DonB10@aol.com

Visit Our Website! www.aahpc.org

www.thepositivecommunity.com

DORIS YOUNG BOYER ETIQUETTE POWER

Doris Young Boyer is a motivational speaker, seminar leader and co-author of Mastering the Art of Success with Les Brown, Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield. She is founder and director of A Sense of Grace School of Etiquette, Confidence and Success.

Use Your EtiQuettePower (EQP) to Resolve Conflict Q: Rudeness and misunderstandings have become epidemic in my organization. What can I do to help improve this situation? A: In our fast paced and diverse social media driven society, conflict can happen very quickly and unexpectedly. My call to action is that we use confidence, relationship-building and leadership abilities, combined with etiquette, to resolve conflict with skill. It is important and powerful to resolve conflict in a way that values relationships and still resolves differences, whether the differences are everyday irritations—someone cuts in front of you at the grocery store or serious challenges—a co-worker is spreading untrue gossip about you. In 2013, make a commitment to increase your knowledge of EtiQuettePower {EQP) to resolve conflict with poise, skill and grace. I offer the following steps: • Redefine for yourself the popular definition of conflict, which is to avoid conflict at all costs. When handled in the right way, conflict can lead to needed and positive changes in business, personal and social situations. Accept that conflict can be good for you. • Recognize that conflict begins with the small things we prefer to ignore rather than the current thinking that not until it explodes, does it become conflict. • Address the issue sooner rather than later. Timing is important. Avoid letting tension build up. When a conflict is allowed to continue too long, a favorable outcome suffers. The way conflict is managed is most important. • Develop, a plan and a script. Think through what you www.thepositivecommunity.com

believe happened. Develop questions, choose respectful language and practice your script alone and maybe with someone you trust. Get to the point, but allow for self-respect and dignity. Above all, listen to what is being said by others during the conversation. • Determine a respectful and mutually beneficial location to have the conversation. Stay calm and cool during the conversation; over reacting is not helpful. Model the behavior you want the meeting to follow. Celebrate any successes, such as, points on which the parties involved can agree. • Prepare yourself before the conversation to manage your emotions. Know what pushes your buttons; it could be a phrase or a particular body language such as rolling of the eyes. Use whatever method keeps you centered, whether that is prayer, meditation, an affirmation or a walk around the block. • Be realistic about what can change. Get over it if the outcome does not go your way. Use the lesson learned to increase your ability to have a favorable outcome the next time. The benefits of this approach are better problem solving, contributing to respectful and civil work, home and social environments as well as mastering your etiquette aptitude. Learning to make conflict work for you is an important skill in a rapidly changing society. We could all take the words of executive coach, Carol Kinsey Goman to heart: "It is helpful to realize that one of us doesn’t have to be wrong for the other to be right." Write to me at Doris@DorisYoungBoyer.com to let me know what you think or to learn more about this topic. April 2013 The Positive Community

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On the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Birmingham Freedom Struggle and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, “Letter From Birmingham Jail,”

The Schomburg Center for Research on Black Culture Presents a Celebration of the “Letter” and a Salute to Harlem’s own,

“The General of Birmingham,” Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker --

Jet Magazine Cover Photo credit: Jet Magazine

Dr. Walker in Birmingham Jail Photo credit: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thursday Evening, May 2, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Canaan Baptist Church of Christ 132 W. 116th Street — Harlem, NY 10026 Rev. Dr. Thomas D. Johnson, Sr. Pastor

Speakers

Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor, Grace Baptist Church - Mount Vernon, NY Prof. Jonathan Rieder, Barnard College, Author of Gospel of Freedom: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Letter from Birmingham Jail and the Struggle That Changed a Nation Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr., Harry Emerson Fosdick Distinguished Professor, Union Theological Seminary

Music by Canaan Mass Choir, Directed by Gregory Payne 212-866-0301

www.cbccnyc.org

BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Tasha Cobbs— But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. —2 Corinthians 12:9 Grace & Peace! asha Cobbs is one of the most called upon worship leaders in the world, but this is nothing new to her. Raised in a family where singing is a part of daily life (in and out of church), the only daughter of Bishop Fritz and First Lady Bertha Cobbs is just doing what comes naturally to her. Tasha’s Praise and Worship knowledge and contributions extend from worship leader for the Young Adult Division of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship in Jessup, MD to being the worship pastor at the dReam Center Church of Atlanta (Pastor William H. Murphy III), where she oversees four ministry divisions of the arts. “I know my assignment as a worship leader is to, without fail, lead God’s people into His presence,” she explained. So it’s not by chance that this worshipper is taking her talents mainstream with the EMI gospel recording label to release her debut album simply titled Grace. The project was recorded live in Montgomery, Alabama at Northview Christian Church. Although she has penned most of the songs on this project, she acknowledges that she couldn’t have done it alone. You may have heard of her producer, the award winning or should I say multi-award winner, singer and songwriter himself, VaShawn Mitchell. Now add established musicians James R. Barrett, Vaughn Phoenix, Rick Watford, Trent Phillips, Anton Nesbitt, and Christopher House and what do you have? A penned prophecy of lyrics revealed through music at its best and recorded for the world to hear. The CD opens up with her proud father introducing his baby to the world over a resilient war-cry drum beat and persuasive chant that commands the Kingdom of God to “Get Up”—arise, reactivate your faith and take back your authority in Christ.

72 The Positive Community

April 2013

Known as her signature song and every local church’s favorite, “Happy” is a head-bopping, hand-clapping, body-swaying song of a head over heels in-love relationship with Jesus. The lyrics insist that the love is so great, that one can’t make it without Him. The repeated uptempo lyric that declares “And everything about you is right/it covers all my wrong/your life saved my life/with you is where I belong…” puts everything in perspective of what a perfect love can do. If you’ve ever been to or witnessed T.D. Jakes’ “Women Thou Art Loosed” conference, then you know it’s a serious matter. Passed down live on youtube.com, thousands of women stand and cry out with Tasha as they repeat, “I hear the chains falling.” Cobbs recorded the song “Break Every Chain” previously with Timiney Figueroa. The impact of two powerhouse vocals testifies that there is power in the name of Jesus! Tasha wrote the title song “Grace” after hearing a sermon from the senior pastor of the church where she recorded this project. She explained on her website, “One night God had just given Pastor Ramsey an amazing message on grace. He said, ‘I think more songwriters should write about God’s love. We love Him, but how does He love us?’ I pulled out my iPhone and I just started writing. I wrote the entire song on my iPhone that night.” More importantly, the lyrics are a life changing melodic love song and a reversal of “Happy.” She begins to speak of God’s abundant unconditional love for us, but with the revelation that we’d be lost but for the grace of God. “. . . Grace loved me/but it’s not what I deserved/and nothing that I’ve earned/ but daily grace saved me.” Not everyone recognizes and appreciates the grace of God. However, those of you who do should pick up a copy of this CD as a testimony that had it not been for His grace . . . well I’ll let you fill in the rest. This is definitely the year of great grace so we salute you, Ms. Cobbs, on everything that you do to keep building God’s Kingdom! www.thepositivecommunity.com

Creating Order Out of Chaos: Archiving & Records Management for Non-Professionals Tuesday, April 23, 2013 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Are you drowning in paper and records? Don’t know what to keep or throw away? Want to learn how to create order out of chaos? Fees: $35.00 Retirees: $25.00 Students: $20.00

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United Missionary Baptist Association Second Quarterly Session Moderator Vice Moderator will convene April 27—May 3, 2013 Dr.1st Rev. Lee A. Arrington Carl L. Washington , Jr. Saturday, April 27-United Youth: Min. LaKeshia Williams, Associate of Antioch Baptist Church Tuesday, April 30-Parent Body: Rev. Edward Mulraine, Pastor, Unity Baptist Tabernacle Church, Mt. Vernon Wednesday, May 1- The Rev. John L. Scott Associate Ministers: Rev. J. Loren Russell, Goodwill Baptist Church, Min. Lea Morisseau, Grace Baptist Church, and Min. Mary Wilder, Sharon Baptist Church Wednesday, May - Laymen's Auxiliary: Rev. Wesley Wilson, Pastor, Second Canaan Baptist Church Rev. Shon T. Alfloyd-Adkins, Host Pastor. Antioch Baptist Church 515 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027

Thursday, May 2- Women's Auxiliary: Rev. Jerome Washington, Site Committee & Pastor, New Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Thursday, May 2- Ushers' Auxiliary: Rev. Dr. Calvin Sampson, Pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR Friday, May 3- Nurses' Auxiliary: Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor, Charity Baptist Church of Christ Then this is a Book oF Revelation. Friday, May 3 Ministers' Wives & Widows Auxiliary: Rev. Keith A.Bolden, Financial Secretary & Pastor, First Calvary Baptist Church

aFFoRDaBle BeneFitS? Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement benefits for your employees is well within your reach. In fact, it’s quite affordable. Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 86%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too. To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it now at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

Friday, May 3- One Night Revival: Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., 1st Vice Moderator & Pastor, New Mt. Zion Baptist Church Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling. The Theme Exploration

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The Positive Community April 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Razac Easter Party

Photos: Darryl Hall

azac Products Company, the Newark-based beauty products manufacturer, hosted their annual Easter Party at the Newark YMCA. This year, the Dowdy family brought happiness and smiles to dozens of families and children that are homeless or displaced. Not only were the kids treated to an afternoon of tasty treats, games, facepainting and toys, there also was a special emphasis to promote literacy. Each child could choose from an extensive display new books.

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April 2013 The Positive Community

Darrell Lawrence Willis, Sr. as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Red Bank Mayor Cites Monmouth Civic Chorus

ed Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna issued a proclamation to the Monmouth Civic Chorus at its March 16th concert, “I Have a Dream,” honoring the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s iconic speech and the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. The Mayor proclaimed March 16th an official day of commemoration of these milestone events, and commended the chorus for its leadership. “Red Bank is the only municipality in New Jersey that is celebrating these joint anniversaries,” commented Mayor Menna, “and it couldn’t have been

done without the generosity, creativity, volunteerism and the spirit of the Monmouth Civic Chorus.” The proclamation was presented to Chorus President James Scavone at the Count Basie Theatre prior to the concert, which featured Darrell Lawrence Willis, Sr. as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Through music, readings, and reflections, the program explored the growth of freedom in our country’s history. The music ranged from African-American spirituals and Civil War songs to more contemporary pieces like a choral arrangement of U2’s moving tribute, “MLK.”

L–R: Chorus President James Scavone receives proclamation from Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna

The Monmouth Civic Chorus has been called "close to perfect" (Asbury Park Press), "alive and evocative" (The Star-Ledger) and "exceptional" (Red Bank Green). The chorus is the proud recipient of the 2008 ASCAP/Chorus America Alice Parker Award and the 2010 Spinnaker Award for Arts and Culture from the Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Ryan Brandau is in his first season as Artistic Director. The group’s next concert features the Duruflé Requiem on May 31. Further information is available at www.monmouthcivicchorus.org or (732) 933-9333.

VICTORY !!!

Left, Dr. Albert Lewis, David Toler, Raymond Scott, Gayle Cheneyfield Jenkins (right) with young arts group from Newark Symphony Hall

Mayor Wayne Smith

Dr. Albert Lewis

The Positive Community April 2013

n Tuesday March 12, 2013 at the Newark Cablevision Television Studio, Dr. Albert J. Lewis celebrated 30 years of international television production of The Dr. A. Lewis Gospel Hour TV, the second oldest gospel program in the nation. A year-long celebration is planned. www.thepositivecommunity.com

OOPS!

n the March issue on page 8, the location of the church pastored by Rev. Albert Morgan (who wrote the Guest Editorial) was erroneously indicated as Bridgewater, New Jersey. Union Baptist Temple is located at 30 M. L. King Jr. Way (formerly Willow Street) in Bridgeton, New Jersey.

BRYAN TERRELL CLARK AS MARVIN GAYE, PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS. ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY ANDREW ECCLES.

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April 2013 The Positive Community

Joyce Misiani, a graduate of the New Community School of Practical Nursing now working at the organization’s nursing home, says she owes New Community a lot.

Guests at New Community’s 45th Anniversary Gala at the Sheraton Meadowlands Hotel had a good time dancing to the sounds of the Kit McClure Band.

A Gala To Remember New Community Corporation Celebrates Its 45th Anniversary

t was an evening to reflect and rejoice as more than 500 guests turned out to dine, dance and help New Community Corporation of Newark celebrate its 45th anniversary with a deeply moving program that paid tribute to its transformational work in improving the lives of inner city residents. “We’ve come this far by faith and we’re looking forward to the next 45 years,” said mistress of ceremonies Frances Teabout, who serves as director of Mission for the Newark, N.J.-

The Positive Community April 2013

based New Community Corporation. Monsignor William J. Linder, who helped found New Community with a small group of residents from Newark’s Central Ward just months after the 1967 summer disorders erupted, said the timing for the organization’s emergence could not have been more perfect because of the hopelessness that existed. A book, Out of the Ashes Came Hope, detailing Monsignor’s life and the founding of New Community, is set to be released this spring.

Photos: Daniel Johnson

Monsignor William J. Linder, right, founder of New Community Corporation, sharing a moment during the 45th anniversary gala with one of his ’50 People I Admire,’ founding board member, Bob Curvin, Distinguished Senior Policy Fellow at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy.

Arthur L. Wilson, who recently retired as board president of New Community Corporation, is presented with a special award recognizing his 38 years of dedicated service by Frances Teabout, who served as mistress of ceremonies at the gala.

“People needed to control their own lives and not be content. They wanted to have a say,” Monsignor Linder explained. “Forming a development corporation like New Community dedicated to low-income neighborhoods was the only way to ensure that everybody benefited.” Special recognition was given during the gala program to Monsignor’s ‘50 People I Admire,’ some of whom were in attendance during the event held March 9, 2013 at the Sheraton Continued on page 85 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Friday, May 17, 2013 Join Reverend John H. Gamble Pastor,

Join Us for the Second International Conference on

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Book early. Space is limited.

Emancipation Sunday at Shiloh

Pastor Thomas surrounded by the Lincoln U. and Cheney U. Choirs Photos: Karen Waters

hiloh Baptist Church in Plainfield NJ, recently observed the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with a focus on education. Choirs from Cheyney University and Lincoln University performed some of the most cherished Negro Spirituals. On that Sunday, the church welcomed over 80 educators from central New Jersey for a special blessing. The Grand Jubilee Committee was also recognized for their work promoting cultural literacy and emancipation awareness in New York and New Jersey. Committee chair, Adrian Council was invited to present the “Great Countdown to Freedom” commemorative calendar to the congregation.

L–R: Adrian Council and Rev. Dr. Gerald LaMont Thomas, sr. pastor Elijah Williams, a student at Children’s Hour of Power, Shiloh (CHOPS)

L–R: Adrian Council and Deacon Charles Hand, former president Verizon Wireless

Blessing of the teachers

The Positive Community April 2013

Surrounded by young people Donna McGregor, director, CHOPS

Shiloh singers backed by the university choirs

Karen Waters, representing the Grand Jubilee Committee www.thepositivecommunity.com

Palm Sunday at First Baptist

irst Baptist at Lincoln Gardens in Somerset NJ, recently welcomed The Positive Community publisher, Adrian A. Council, Sr. to speak about the 150th anniversary of the Great Emancipation and share good news about the Grand Jubilee Calendar. Photos: Karen Waters

Rev. Dr. Soaries

Adrian Council Lâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;R Friends: Denise Davis, Dr. Melinda Contereras-Byrd, First Lady Donna Soaries and Michele Pleasant.

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April 2013 The Positive Community

Prayer for American Conference If my people who are called by name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways then will I hear from Heaven and forgive their sins and heal their lands. 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 Photos: Ken McCall

L–R: Rev. Ronald A. Sutton, Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd and Rev. Milton A. Byrd

n an extraordinary show of patriotism and faith in God, Pastor E. T. Byrd and the congregation of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Newark, NJ hosted a Prayer for America Conference, nightly, March 24-29, 2013. Gun and gang violence, economic distress, unemployment, hunger, poverty and disease…America is in trouble and it cannot be healed by human hands. The nightly revival was filled with patriotic hymns, gospel music, praise dancing and the reading of historic speeches from our nation’s founding fathers. The highlights, however, were the mes-

sages delivered nightly by great preachers for the healing of America: United HealthCare Table Rev. Ronald A. Sutton, Mt. Olive Missionary B.C., Crystal River, FL; Dr. C.E. ary Dr. Elton T. Byrd. Music was Overstreet, New Covenant Baptist provided by the Fellowship OrchesChurch of Christ, Jersey City, NJ; tra and the Prayer for America Mass Rev. John T. Teabout, Sr., Greater Choir. Dr. Louberta Byrd is the Friendship B.C., Newark, NJ; Rev. Minister of Music. Milton Byrd, Bethlehem Missionary The revival was recorded and B.C., Roselle, NJ and the Legend- broadcast worldwide on the internet.

L–R: Asha Samant D.M.D., BDS, MDS associate professor UMDNJ-NJ Dental School; Hon. Mildred Cump, Newark Councilmember and Stacie J. Newton, MPA director of marketing communications UMDNJ-The University Hospital

The Positive Community April 2013

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Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. Harlem for Improvement, Inc HarlemCongregations Congregations forCommunity Community Board of Directors and Honorary Chairs Improvement, In Board of Directors and Honorary Chairs Board of Directors and Honorary Chairs Cordially Invite You To The Cordially CordiallyInvite InviteYou YouTo ToThe The ELEVENTH ANNUAL ELEVENTH ANNUAL “LET US BREAK BREAD TOGETHER” AWARDS DINNER ELEVENTH ANNUAL

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12th Pastoral Anniversary Rev. Ronald B. Christian

OURSTORY

Senior Pastor

Continued from page 54

Theme: IT’S A NEW SEASON Wednesday, May 1st thru Sunday, May 5, 2013 Save the dates – Details to come!

Christian Love Baptist Church 830 Lyons Avenue, Irvington, NJ

Upcoming Special Issue!

May Issue

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The Positive Community April 2013

others, creating a grapevine effect that effectively amounted to a public school system for people of color—whether enslaved or freed. Eventually, people of color were legally given the right to be educated and churches opened formal schools staffed by black teachers and administrators. Education was seen as the pathway to emancipation and a better life. As slaves were emancipated and became sharecroppers or tradespeople, they did their best to educate themselves and the Black Church, with help from white abolitionists, established and/or maintained the first black schools. With the promise of education came increased church membership and more support—both moral and financial—for African American education. This drew the attention of white church leaders who wanted to oversee black education and schools, but the Black Church fought to retain control of how and by whom its members would be educated. “Normal schools” became the next endeavor of the Black Church. Normal schools were created to train high school graduates to teach others based upon a set of teaching standards and norms. Normal schools eventually evolved into teachers’ colleges, which evolved into universities. Most of the older Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) began as normal schools founded by or affiliated with various religious orders or denominations. Selma University was originally Alabama Baptist Normal and Theological School, affiliated with the Lutheran church; Howard Normal and Theological School for the Education of Teachers and Preachers became Howard University. While some people today question the necessity for HBCUs, others embrace them with their rich history as they continue to carry the mantle of education for African Americans by African Americans. In a world where most schools use maps that downplay the size and significance of Africa and argue that Egyptians aren’t black, HBCUs give students a different look at everything from politics to world history through the lens of people of color. For that I say “Thank you and Hallelujah!” to the Black Church for founding schools and saving both souls and minds. Visit www.thepositivecommunity.com for a listing of HBCUs and their church affiliations. www.thepositivecommunity.com

WOMEN OF FAITH

Continued from page 57 and accomplished speakers on the 2013 theme, “The Connection between Spirituality and Health.” Councilwoman Inez E. Dickens was not present at this year’s breakfast because her husband of 31 years, John Russell, had passed away during the night. Prayers went up for her immediately. The program included an Invocation by Rabbi Linda Henry Goodman (first woman president of the New York Board of Rabbi’s), welcome remarks from Rev. Dr. Serene Jones (first woman president of Union Theological Seminary), as well as speakers Sarah Sayeed (Women In Islam) and Onleilove Alston (Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies). Musical selections were provided by Exousia, directed by Evangelist Barry Parker (Rivers at Rehoboth, Rev. Vanessa Brown, Pastor) and to everyone’s delight, President Obama’s International Religious Freedom Ambassador, Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook made a surprise appearance. Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, senior pastor of Memorial Baptist Church in Harlem, the first woman elected as senior pastor of an established Baptist church in Harlem, served as mistress of ceremonies. It was an awesome assembly. In her introduction of Dr. Oz, Speaker Quinn reminded us that “We can’t be there for others if we’re not there for ourselves.” She also thanked Ms. Khani Brea, NYC Council religious liaison, for coordinating the breakfast and introduced the Health Corp, an in-school healthy living outreach youth program at several NYC schools.

Dr. Mehmet Oz began his keynote address with a phrase that had many in the audience quickly looking for pen and paper—“A raindrop falling into the ocean of humanity,” and followed with the comment “You are not alone, don’t act like it.” He then proceeded to elaborate on what he called Oprah Lessons—four things he learned from working with Oprah Winfrey: 1) Listen before fixing problems; 2) Feelings change minds (not what you know but what you feel); 3) Ancient solutions work; and 4) Make it easy to do the right thing. “You control more than 70% of how well and long you live,” he said and concluded with a review of what he called the biggest five life adjustments every person could make: 1) Blood pressure (115/75 recommended as a goal; 2) No cigarettes or toxins; 3) Exercise 30 minutes daily; 4) Healthy diet that is easy to love and 5) Stress Control – which he demonstrated by teaching a brief breathing exercise: place your hand on your stomach and inhale to a four-count as you feel your stomach extend; exhale to a four count and contract your stomach muscles toward your spine. As he has said on his television program and in many magazine articles, Dr. Oz recommends regular meditation as a means of stress control. Every table in the room stood for its own group photo with Dr. Oz and Speaker Quinn as the program concluded with a selection from Exousia, and a closing quote from Onleilove Alston:“Divine healing is my birthright. Wholeness is my promise from God.”

NCC GALA

Continued from page 78 Meadowlands Hotel and Conference Center in East Rutherford. Among the honorees recognized for influencing or helping Monsignor in his work were former New Jersey Gov. Jim Florio and his wife, Lucinda. In his remarks to the packed ballroom, Florio praised New Community for the comprehensive approach it takes in equipping individuals with the tools and opportunities necessary to gain upward mobility. “New Community Corporation is a real example of an institution that has touched the lives of tens of thousands of people. It touches every facet of community life,” Florio said, marveling at the array of services offered by the corporation. New Community is recognized as one of the largest and most comprehensive community development organizations in the country, attracting visitors from as far away as Africa and Northwww.thepositivecommunity.com

ern Ireland, who visit Newark in hopes of emulating the model it has created. New Community has as part of its portfolio about 2,000 units of housing for seniors and families in three New Jersey cities—Newark, Orange and Jersey City. Formally incorporated in January 1968, New Community essentially created a ‘city within a city,’ starting initially with housing. Other services and facilities were eventually added, including job training, education and health care. This gave rise to a holistic network of services and programs that touched everyone in the community, from infants and preschoolers all the way up to seniors. “Bill Linder and those who chose to follow him and to share his vision—they saw a city broken and they patched it back together,” observed Clement Price, Board of Governors Distinguished Service Professor of History at Rutgers University in New-

ark, who says he is convinced Newark would not have recovered and progressed as far as it has today without the influence of New Community. During the gala, a featured video presentation highlighted the stories of many of those individuals whose lives have been transformed by New Community. They included a formerly homeless mother of four who became a licensed practical nurse with the help of New Community, landing a job at its nursing home, and a young man who was lured away from a life of drugs by an automotive technician training program run by New Community with the support of Ford Motor Company. “I really owe New Community a lot. They lifted me from nothing to something I can be proud of,” said Joyce Misiani, 43, an LPN at New Community Extended Care Center, now pursuing her RN degree. April 2013 The Positive Community

MESSAGE OF HOPE

Continued from page 56 Photo: Karen Waters

ew Garden State Jurisdiction, Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Bishop William T. Cahoon, Jurisdictional Prelate standing with his daughter Sis. Kori L. Washington. The Bishop recently presented the Grand Jubilee Calendar to the New Garden State membership.

The Positive Community April 2013

Wooden, adding that we need more prayers in our lives. Married for 50 years, Wooden affirmed that her faith in God has kept her in many tests. “When you are called to be a missionary, you will have to go through some tests,” she said, but because of them, she has been able to help some of the younger people. On their night, many of the young people expressed victory in their lives through praise, worship and presentations. Twins James and Nathaniel Williams offered a hip-hop rendition of several scriptures. Stirring the audience with their fervor, the young men were a testament to Graham and Wooden’s claims. The conference peaked on Sunday night with the message of the Jurisdictional Prelate Bishop Norman L. Prescott. He, too, addressed the many challenges faced today. Introduced by Auxiliary Bishop and Pastor of Wells Cathedral Hershey L. Taylor, Prescott preached that “without others, we cannot do what needs to be done.” Speaking of the delegation of duties to the apostles by Jesus Christ, Prescott said that “the gospel is about more than salvation, it is also about a new order, and victory in our lives today.” In a call for more stick-to-itive-ness, consistency, and continuity among the saints, Prescott declared, “Things have a way of rocking our boat, but be ye steadfast.” As Prescott finished his sermon in the packed sanctuary, worshipers stood clapping their hands and praising God, the organ punctuating his phrases and shouts of affirmation approving the message.

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The Positive Community April 2013

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Thoughts on the New Pope and Continental Shift he election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina as the new Pope Francis of the Catholic Church is either an historical aberration or an historical watershed, in that he is the first Pope in centuries chosen from a continent other than Europe. A deeper look into the facts, however, suggests that the shift is less dramatic than it might initially appear. Over the centuries, most Popes have been European. In fact, probably most have been Italian; but not all. The Apostle Peter, whom the Catholic Church claims as its first Pope, resided in what we today call Asia Minor. More recently, Pope John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła and elected Pope in 1978, was Polish. Pope Benedict (the former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger), whose retirement earlier this year opened the door for the election of Pope Francis, is German. But more Catholics today live in Latin America and Africa than in Europe. Indeed, Christianity in general is spreading in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia, while declining in Europe. Given these trends, when Pope Benedict announced his retirement, many analysts wondered whether the next Pope would come from a part of the world where Catholicism is presently more dynamically prevalent than in Europe. The press named potential candidates from various parts of the planet. So, while the ultimate election of a Pope from South America is an historical shift, it is not a surprise. But neither am I surprised that Argentina is the specific non-European country from which the cardinals drew their new leader. Argentina is the whitest large nation-state in Latin America. Among large countries south of the United States, approximately half of Brazil’s population reportedly consists of descendants of African slaves. Mexico is predominantly mestizo (i.e. mixed European and Native American ancestry). But waves of European immigrants reportedly entered Argentina during the 19th and 20th centuries, just as in the United States during that period. As a result, Argentina’s population is now overwhelmingly white. Given this, it is unsurprising that after World War II,

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Nazi war criminals fled to Argentina. There they could blend into the population (at least by appearance) and probably feel somewhat comfortable in their environment, while remaining geographically and culturally distant from the allied powers who had defeated Germany and were prosecuting Nazi war criminals. Although the new Pope was born in Argentina and has a Spanish first name (Jorge), his father was an Italian immigrant and his mother was of Italian descent. So if the cardinals are shifting Catholic leadership toward places and peoples from which the Catholic Church today draws most of its membership, they are doing so gradually. Aside from all this, Cardinal Bergoglio —the new Pope Francis—appears to me, as of this writing, to be a very good choice for Pope. His concern for the poor and downtrodden and his personal humility appear to coincide with God’s commands expressed through the Law, the Prophets, and Jesus Christ. That concern is also quite relevant to the non-European world that the Catholic Church presently serves. For example, in South America, Peru’s population is reportedly 90 percent Roman Catholic but more than 50 percent impoverished. Africa’s people are, reportedly, the poorest on earth. Moreover, to state the obvious (I hope it’s obvious), simply being African, Latin American, or whatever does not qualify anyone to lead any segment of the worldwide Body of Christ. Regarding planks in our own eyes (Matthew 7:3-5), the ubiquitous mass violence and wars in Africa (Eastern Congo, Northern Nigeria, Somalia, and elsewhere), and the continent’s highest rate of HIV/AIDS worldwide (which could be curtailed by obedience to God’s commands concerning sexual activity and marriage) suggest that the growth of Christianity in Africa has not eradicated sin. Has it done so anywhere? In Matthew 6:33, Christ commands us to seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness. I assume that includes seeking God before gripping geographic, national, and racial loyalties. So let’s give the new Pope a chance to do God’s thing. Better yet, let’s pray that God does God’s thing through the new leader of the Catholic portion of the overall Body of Christ. April 2013 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

www.thepositivecommunity.com April 2013

Vol. 13, No. 4

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Celebrating HBCUs BY R.L. WITTER

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

espite the deal Mother Nature and Punxsutawney Phil seem to have made to keep winter hanging around through June, spring has sprung! The weather is warming, blossoms are blooming and the Class of 2013 is preparing for graduation across the country. While the economy is still less than stellar and many graduates will be facing unemployment or underemployment, their accomplishments are most definitely to be celebrated! This month, The Positive Community shined a light on the history, alumni and significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities—HBCUs. While some question the purpose of HBCUs in a supposedly post-racial society, the stories and people in this issue serve to quiet the doubters and applaud the believers. As businessman, author, philanthropist and Howard University alumnus Jeff Burns, Jr. said, “Black people teaching black people have more of a vested interest in seeing them succeed.” His book, The Brotherhood of Drew Hall not only chronicles the lifelong bonds that several young men forged in the late 1960s and early 1970s at Howard, it also lauds their individual and collective successes as black men in America. And let’s not forget about the sisterhood! Last month we featured the women of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated on our cover and many of them attended HBCUs as well. Spellman College, the oldest college in the country for black women, boasts the highest graduation rate for black students of ANY college or university in the country. While in 2005 the national average for black student graduation was a dismal 42%, Spelman crushed the average by graduating 77% of the women enrolled there. In a piece for The Atlantic, Ta-Nehesi Coates recently wrote that “The assumption that there is no real difference among black people is exactly what racism is. Our differences, our

Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Church/Community Affairs Coordinator Faith Jackson Contributing Writers Sonja Gracy Dr. Phillip Bonaparte Linda Armstrong Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Rosemary Sinclair Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Herb Boyd Glenda Cadogan Toni Parker Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood William Parrish Jeanne Parnell Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Donovan Gopie Linda Pace Hubert Williams Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: news@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © 2010 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 CommunityTM, its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

90 The Positive Community

The Last Word

April 2013

right to our individuality, is what makes us human. The point of racism is to rob black people of that right.” HBCUs give African American students the ability to explore the commonalities as well as the differences among them and their peers from across the country and around the globe. A glance at the roster of HBCU alumni reads like an African American honor roll. In Politics and Civil Rights: Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall; Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Rev. Jesse Jackson; Congressman Elijah Cummings; NYC Mayor David Dinkins; U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young and Rev. Ralph Abernathy. In Literature: Alice Walker, Ralph Ellison, Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou and Nikki Giovanni. In Music and Entertainment: Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad, Branford Marsalis, Ed Bradley and Oprah Winfrey. In Science and Medicine: Former U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher and Dr. LaSalle D. Laffall, Jr. And don’t forget the countless teachers, doctors, lawyers and business owners in our local communities and corporate America. If there is still any doubt about the significance and importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities today, on May 19, 2013, President Barack H. Obama will deliver the commencement speech at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. As African American people have proven time and again throughout history, where there is a will, we will make a way. When we were shut out of other institutions of education, we made our own. And while we fought for and won the opportunity to attend other schools as well, HBCUs are still a viable option for our youth and professionals. The mission statement of Morehouse College is “to develop men with disciplined minds who will lead lives of leadership and service…” Shouldn’t that be our collective mission as a people? www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Positive Community’s

Great Countdown to Freedom

The Grand Jubilee Year of Emancipation—2013

n January 1, 2013, America observed the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation—the sesquicentennial commemoration. From the date January 1, 1863 to the present we, as a group are blessed with an enormous opportunity to measure, assess and define our American journey, our claim on the American Dream.

Below is a cultural narrative—our story—an oral history, a brief presentation of our deep collective experience that dates back to before this nation’s founding: The Cultural Narrative African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa as slaves in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years). On January 1st 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 Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full citizenship rights for the people in what has been called “The Second Emancipation.” Forty years after Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elected its first black president, Barack Obama (2008). In one hundred years between the first and “second emancipation,” in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching and the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, 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 forget! This is the story that we must tell our children and be ever remembered. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation, must tell our story to each other reminding ourselves, over and over again of the great, noble struggle and sacrifices of those who came before us. This is our story, our cultural narrative, our Grand Jubilee and springboard into a great and prosperous future—a vision of hope and progress; health and wholeness; peace and goodwill! 2013—the Grand Jubilee Year of the Emancipation Proclamation! Author: Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor: Jean Nash Wells

Community Partner:

Graphic Design: Penguin Graphics & Martin Maishman Published by: The Positive Community Corporation www.thepositivecommunity.com

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