December 2017

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 2017 thepositivecommunity.com

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DECEMBER 2017

CONTENTS

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SECTIONS HEALTH...................................10 EDUCATION.............................14 CULTURE ................................24

Features RWJ Barnabas’ Men’s Health Night .......................... 10 Senior Veterans Honored ......................................... 11 Hidden Figures Gala ................................................ 12 Arthur Ashe Institute Celebrates! ............................. 14

ON THE COVER: In the spirit of the season, The Positive Community wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a blessed, prosperous, and happy New Year!

Pierre Toussaint Scholarship Awards ........................ 15

Cover art by 4evergrafix

Harlem Community Celebration ............................... 21

&also inside

Building Newark’s College-Going Culture ................. 16 NJBIC Leadership Conference .................................. 19

Clear View Installs Pastor ........................................ 22 Rev. Dr. Soaries Enstooled in Ghana ........................ 24

Publisher’s Desk .................................. 8 Giants of Jazz .......................................................... 25 Wealth Building ................................... 20 AUDELCO Awards ..................................................... 26 The Preaching Professor ..................... 30 Roll Call to Progress Church Tour ............................. 28 The Last Word .................................... 34 Hailey Kilgore of Once on This Island ....................... 33

4

The Positive Community December 2017

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New Jersey residents, learn how you can get

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UHCCommunityPlan.com/NJ Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This plan is available to anyone who has both Medicare and full Medicaid benefits. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations and restrictions may apply. Benefits may change on January 1 of each year. Premiums are covered for enrollees of UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete ONE (HMO SNP). Members must use network plan providers, pharmacies, and DME (Durable Medical Equipment) suppliers. Members will be enrolled into Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage under the plan and will be automatically disenrolled from any other Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. UnitedHealthcare does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in health programs and activities. We provide free services to help you

communicate with us, such as letters in other languages or large print. You can also ask for an interpreter. To ask for help, please call the toll-free member phone number listed on your health plan member ID card, TTY 711, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su

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Essex Newark’s Essex County CountyisisHelping HelpingTransform Transform Newark’s West Ward with Sheriff’s Building and the Essex West Ward with Sheriff’s Building and the Essex County Donald Payne, Sr. School of Technology County Donald Payne, Sr. School of Technology

The County Sheriff’s Patrol Building and and the the The opening openingofofthe thenew newEssex Essex County Sheriff’s Patrol Building construction of the Essex County Donald M. Payne, Sr. School of Technology construction of the Essex County Donald M. Payne, Sr. School of Technology represent in the CityCity of Newark.

These projects are are representlandmark landmarkredevelopment redevelopment in the of Newark.

These projects now anchors in the community that already are spurring the revitalization of now anchors in the community that already are spurring the revitalization of the West Ward.

This could not have been done without everyone working the West Ward. This could not have been done without everyone working together, thethe partnership andand support we received from from together,and andweweappreciate appreciate partnership support we received Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Freeholder Rufus Johnson, Newark West Ward Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Freeholder Rufus Johnson, Newark West Ward Councilman Newark North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos and and CouncilmanJoe JoeMcCallum, McCallum, Newark North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos the Essex County Vocational Technical School District. the Essex County Vocational Technical School District.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. Jr. Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Essex County Executive Essex County Executive We have have relocated relocated our We our Sheriff’s Patrol Patrol Division Division to Sheriff’s to this this state-of-the-art precinct state-of-the-art precinct on on West Market Market Street Street from West from their their original headquarters headquarters that original that has has been in in use use for for over been over 100 100 years. The The new new facility years. facility will will enable our our officers officers to enable to perform perform their duties duties more more efficiently their efficiently and respond respond to the changing and changing needsof of the the community. community. needs

TheThe330,000-square-foot school, 330,000-square-foot school, named for for the the late late Congressman named Congressman Donald Payne, is being Donald Payne, Sr., Sr., is being built built on on of the old United Hospital, the the site site of the old United Hospital, which an eyesore which had had beenbeen an eyesore and and blight community blight on on the the community for afor a generation. school building generation.

The The school building will will have the the mostmost modern modern have accommodations willa be a place accommodations and and will be place students to gain for forour our students to gain the the foundation for their future success.

It foundation for their future success.

It is scheduled to welcome its first class is scheduled to welcome its first class in September 2018. in September 2018.

R C

GREAT

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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 $1.50 each or they 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

Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor

Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr, Pastor

Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor

Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor

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

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr Pastor

Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Jovan Troy Davis, Pastor

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

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

Agape Baptist Church, Newark NJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor

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

Mount Calvary B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Vernon C. Walton, Senior Pastor

St. John’s B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Dr. Evans L. Spagner, Interim Senior Pastor

Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor

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

Mount Calvary United Methodist Church, New York, NY Rev. Francis Kairson, Pastor

St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor

Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder

Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor

Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. James Morrison, Pastor

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

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

First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev Patrick Henry Young, Pastor

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

Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Timothy E. Jones, Pastor Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., Pastor Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus

First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Rahway, NJ Rev. Allen Thompson, Jr., Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President

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 Manning-Fontaine Pastor Emeritus

Good Neighbor Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor

New Jerusalem Worship Center, Jamaica, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Senior Pastor

Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor

New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor

Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor

New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James, Pastor

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

Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor

Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Malcolm A. Punter, President & CEO

Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, East Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor

Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev.Chuch Chamberlayne, Pastor

Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

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

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

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

Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor

Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor

Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor

St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. Paul Baptist, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor St. Paul's B.C., Montclair, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C.Williams, Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

Businesses & Organizations 125th St. BID City National Bank Essex County College, NJ Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce Marion P. Thomas Charter School Mildred Crump, Newark City Council Muslim American Chamber of Commerce NAACP New Jersey* NAACP, NY State Conference* New Brunswick Theological Seminary New Jersey Performing Arts Center New York Theological Seminary NobleNNJ Nubian Conservatory of Music Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Schomburg Center for Research The College of New Rochelle United Way of Essex and West Hudson WBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc.

“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 ADRIAN A. COUNCIL, COUNCIL, SR. PUBLISHER’S PUBLISHER’S DESK DESK

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HAWTHORNE: LOWELL HAWTHORNE: LEGACY! A VISION; A LEGACY!

any saddened by by the the sudden suddendeath death any of of us are deeply saddened on dear friend, friend, respected respected on December December 10th of our dear business community servant— servant— business leader and community Jamaican-born CEO of of Golden Golden Krust Krust Jamaican-born founder and CEO Caribbean Hawthorne. Words Words are are not not Caribbean Bakery Bakery Lowell Hawthorne. enough contribution to to the the spirspirenough to to describe describe his enormous contribution itual, our communities. communities. itual, social, social, and and business economy of our II met general sales sales manager manager met Lowell Lowell in 1992, when I was general at Corporation’s Caribbean Caribbean music music at Inner Inner City City Broadcasting Broadcasting Corporation’s and WLIB. At At that that time, time, and black black news/talk news/talk radio station, WLIB. Golden just aa single single store store on on Golden Krust Krust Caribbean Bakery had just Gunhill food truck. truck. Our Our relationrelationGunhill Road Road in the Bronx, and a food ship became an an advertiser advertiser on on ship began began when when Golden Krust became the the radio radio station. station.

Fast Krust Caribbean Caribbean Bakery Bakery Fast forward forward to today: Golden Krust owns Golden Krust Krust restaurants restaurants owns or or has has franchised franchised over 120 Golden in products are are found found in in supersuperin nine nine states. states. Their quality products markets Krust services services NYC NYC markets across across the country. Golden Krust Public correctional institutions, institutions, Public Schools, Schools, hospitals, correctional churches, churches, etc. etc.

Over than 15 15 grand grand openopenOver the the years years I attended not less than ings each opening, opening, the the ribribings in in New New York York and New Jersey. At each bon-cutting prayer circle circle led led by by the the bon-cutting was was preceded by a prayer Hawthorne franchise owners, owners, employemployHawthorne family family including new franchise ees, Golden Krust Krustgrand grand ees, friends, friends, and and well-wishers. Indeed, aa Golden opening evoked aa sense sense of of commucommuopening was was aa cultural event that evoked nity toward the the promised promised nity pride. pride. Together, Together, we were headed toward land and good-will! good-will! land of of hope, hope, opportunity, prosperity, and What’s What’s in in Your Your Hand?

Herein of Lowell Lowell Hawthorne: Hawthorne: Herein lies lies the the genius and foresight of the ethno-cultural product— product— the inherent inherent ability ability to leverage a popular ethno-cultural the multi-million dollar dollar enterprise enterprise proprothe Jamaican Jamaican beef beef patty—into a multi-million viding opportunities,and andquality quality viding jobs, jobs, community community services, business opportunities, products future prosperity prosperity isis ever ever products to to thousands! thousands! As I see it, future dependent recognize the the value valueof of dependent on on our collective ability to recognize our (Matthew 25: 25: 14-28, 14-28, our own own God-given God-given talents and gifts (Matthew Parable Adam Clayton ClaytonPowell, Powell, Parable of of the the Talents). In one of Rev. Adam Jr.’s asked, “What’s “What’s in in your your Jr.’s most most memorable memorable sermons he asked, hand hand little little boy?” boy?”

We Hawthorne family, family, and and We are are grateful grateful to Lowell, the Hawthorne Golden Grill for for being being among among Golden Krust Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill the in this this magazine magazine when when the very very first first businesses businesses to advertise in we Lowell Hawthorne’s Hawthorne’s we began began in in 2000. Over the years Lowell

40 The Positive Community 2018 40 The Positive CommunityDecember December 2018 December 2018 8 The Positive Community 2018 88 The Positive Community 2017

GoldenKrust Krusthas hascatered cateredour ourspecial specialevents; events;heheserved servedasasa a Golden panelistatatour ourbusiness businessroundtables; roundtables;and andhehewas washonored honored panelist asas “Businessmanofofthe theYear” Year”atatThe ThePositive PositiveCommunity CommunityAwards Awards “Businessman andGala Galainin2014.

2014. and Afterreading readingabout aboutLowell LowellininThe ThePositive PositiveCommunity, Community,the the After entrepreneur ministry ministryatatFirst FirstBaptist BaptistChurch ChurchatatLincoln Lincoln entrepreneur GardensininSomerset, Somerset,NJ NJ(where (whereRev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Deforest Deforest“Buster” “Buster” Gardens Soariesisissenior seniorpastor), pastor),invited invitedhim himtotoaddress addresstheir theirmonthmonthSoaries meeting.According Accordingtotothe theministry’s ministry’spresident, president,Barbara Barbara lyly meeting.

Jones(owner (ownerofofFlowers FlowersbybyBarbara, Barbara,New NewBrunswick, Brunswick,NJ), NJ),it it Jones was among amongthe thegroup’s group’smost mostwell-attended well-attendedmeetings. meetings.And And was Lowell’spresentation presentationdid didnot notfail failtotoinspire inspireand andencourage! encourage!

Lowell’s Amonghis hismany manyappearances appearancesasasa aguest guestspeaker, speaker,Lowell Lowell Among addressedthe theUnited UnitedMissionary MissionaryBaptist BaptistAssociation AssociationofofNYC NYC addressed and the the Baptist Baptist Ministers’ Ministers’Conference ConferenceofofGreater GreaterNYNY& & and Vicinity. Lowell Lowell was was a aproud proudmember memberofofThe TheCaribbean Caribbean Vicinity.

Industry,and andvalued valued AmericanChamber ChamberofofCommerce Commerceand andIndustry, American his role role asaschairman chairmanofofthe theAmerican AmericanFoundation Foundationforforthe the his UniversityofofWest WestIndies.

Indies.

University LovePrevails Prevails Love Lowell and and his his wife, wife,Lorna, Lorna,were wereactive activemembers membersinintheir their Lowell homechurch. church.He Healso alsoparticipated participatedin,in,was wasa amember memberof,of,oror home contributedtotoaahost hostofoforganizations organizationsand andcauses. causes. contributed last saw saw Lowell LowellHawthorne HawthorneininNew NewRochelle, Rochelle,NYNYonon II last November10 10atatthe theGolden GoldenKrust KrustFoundation’s Foundation’s12th 12thAnnual Annual November Excellence Awards Awards Gala, Gala,named namedininhonor honorofofhishisparents, parents, Excellence Mavisand andEphraim EphraimHawthorne.

Hawthorne.And Andwewehad hada agood goodtime! time!

Mavis The Lowell Lowell Hawthorne Hawthornelegacy legacylives livesononasasananapplied applied The social-economictheory: theory:the theeconomics economicsofofculture. culture.Real Realand and sussocial-economic sustainablegrowth growthmust mustevolve evolvefrom fromwithin withinour ourcollective collective souls. tainable souls.

Forevery everyprosperous prosperousand andsuccessful successfulpeople, people,teamwork teamworkand and For theeconomics economicsofofculture cultureare areananunspoken unspokenrule. rule.It’s It’snot not even disthe even discussed,it’s it’sjust justdone; done;it’s it’sananinstinctive instinctivereflex! reflex!Our Ourfriend, friend, cussed, Lowell,mastered masteredthe theeconomics economicsofofculture; culture;for forhim himit itwas was art.

Lowell, anan art.

He not not only onlystarted starteda abusiness, business,heheinspired inspireda acommunitycommunityHe basedindustry. industry.He Hepracticed practiceda asimple, simple,positive, positive,communitycommunitybased buildingideal: ideal:self-acceptance, self-acceptance,self-reliance self-relianceand andself-respect. self-respect. building Thesupreme supremechallenge challengetotothe theHawthorne Hawthornefamily, family, especialThe especialhis children, children, brothers, brothers,and andsisters; sisters;the thegreat greatchallenge challenge lyly his before us us all allisisthat thatwe weresolve resolvetotomove moveforward, forward,totobuild build before uponthe thespirit spiritofofLowell’s Lowell’svision visionand andhis hislegacy legacyfar, far,farfarinto into upon thefuture! future!Ultimately, Ultimately,love lovealways alwaysprevails! prevails! the

www.thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

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Health ideas for wellness

RWJ Barnabas Health Men’s Health Night

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pproximately 300 men attended Newark Beth Israel Medical Center’s annual Ray Murphy Men’s Health Night and received a variety of health information and screenings including hernia screenings, sleep consultations, training in hand-compression CPR, and exercise instruction. George Martin, the 1986 NY Giants captain and Super Bowl XXI champion moderated the panel discussion.

Photos: Karen Waters

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey staff L–R: Douglas A. Zehner; Dr. Patricia Williams Bennett; Dr. Laura Budinick; Dr. Domenico J. Savatta; Dr. Omar Bey; Dr. Stuart Shoengold; Dr. Anthony Isedeh; Dr. Marc Cohen; Cinetta Feliciano; Marilyn Harris; Darrell K. Terry Sr.; and George Martin

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The Positive Community December 2017

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Senior Veterans Honored Photos: Seitu Oronde

Navy Veteran Willie A Thompson, who was on duty when Pearl Harbor was bombed.

SHORT-TERM REHABILITATION

MAKING HARLEM STRONG Harlem Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation provides outstanding short-term rehabilitation programs and an array of customized treatment programs designed to get you back on your feet after a hospital stay.

NYC Councilman Andy King and honored US Veteran Army Sergeant/Specialist 4 Clifford F. Cleaton

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ronx residents from “the greatest generation” were honored for their service on Veterans’ Day. The reference comes from the book of that name written by Tom Brokaw, which honors those men and women who suffered and persevered through America’s Great Depression and then went on to fight World War II. The celebration, hosted by City Councilman Andy King, honored Bronx veterans for their service. In his book, Brokaw identified five characteristics evident in these Americans that seem to be all but forgotten today:

• Personal Responsibility

• Humble Nature

• Work Ethic

• Prudent Saving

• Faithful Commitment The 12 honorees certainly embodied those traits, and among them were John Hall, a flyer with the Tuskegee Airmen; and Willie Thompson, who is 100 years old.

“We want to make sure that those who have done something to improve the life of all Americans are honored here today,” said King. The 12th Council District's second annual Veterans’ Day Celebration on Friday, November 3 in Co-op City featured keynote speaker William E. Thomas of the Wounded Warrior Project. www.thepositivecommunity.com

A We bring together the region’s foremost rehabilitative physicians, nurses, therapists, and clinicians to offer superior rehabilitation care, providing you with individualized therapy using state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

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December 2017 The Positive Community

11

Hidden Figures Gala Recognizing Women in Science and Medicine

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he Williams Forum for Diabetes Education and Healthcare (WFDEH) a 501(c)(3) under the direction of President Dr. Patricia Williams Bennett, presented an elegant “Hidden Figures” Gala on Friday evening November 3, 2017 at the Orange Lawn Tennis Club in South Orange, New Jersey. The mission of the organization is to provide health information forums directly to at-risk populations relative to glycemic control and other health comorbidities such as hypertension and kidney disease.

Outstanding women in science and medicine were recognized. They are: mathematician, Mrs. Marion Johnson, associate of the NASA/Boeing trajectory team for the Neil Armstrong lunar landing mission; Ruby J. Sampson, MD, Gastroenterology; Natalie Johnson-Alves, MD, Internal Medicine; and Joan Leonard-Hudgins, MD, Pulmonary Medicine/Critical Care.

Over 200 guests were in attendance including Reverend Marilyn M. Harris, PhD, senior vice president of Community Relations, RWJ Barnabas Health, Newark Beth Israel Hospital; and Ms. Paige Dworak, president and CEO of East Orange General Hospital. – Courtesy WFDEH

L–R: Marion Johnson and Dr. Patricia Bennett, WFDEH

L–R: Dr. Natalie Johnson-Alves, Marion Johnson, Dr. Ruby Sampson, and Dr. Joan Leonard-Hudgins Dr. Ruby Sampson and Dr. Bennett

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The Positive Community December 2017

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THE FUTURE LOOKS

EMPOWERING This year’s McDonald’s® 365 Black® honorees are a living testament to the power of inspiration.

With every personal victory, they’ve used their success to lift their community to new heights.

To learn more about the achievements and contributions of this group of extraordinary women, visit 365Black.com

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Chasity Hale, Sanya Richards-Ross, Margaret “Marty” Gillis, Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, Tichina Arnold © 2017 McDonald’s

Education the art + science of learning L–R: Gala co-host, NY1 News Anchor, Cheryl Willis and Vice President External Affairs at Healthfirst George Hulse

Photos: Seitu Oronde and Ken Brown

L–R: Dr. Robert Gore, MD received award from Dr. Wayne Riley, president, SUNY Downstate Medical Center Ashe during his 1975 Wimbledon championship victory against Jimmy Connors.

L–R: Darelle Revis, former NY Jets NFL cornerback; Soledad O’Brien, honoree; and Dr. Edgar and Mrs. Harriette Mandeville

L–R: Young doctors, Standing; Aisa Wynn, Roudjessie Charles, Jiamin Chin, Cassandra Saint Louis and Genesis Smith; Seated; Haroon Chaudhry, Deshawn Fairbairn and Marco Diaz Cordova

A CELEBRATION WITH A PURPOSE Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health Gala

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ounded in 1992 by tennis champion and humanitarian Arthur Ashe two months before his death from AIDS, the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health (AAIUH) focuses on health, education, medical and community service, and research. The institute makes significant contributions to organizations in an effort to help stem the disparities in healthcare in urban communities, especially targeting preventable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

The institute’s annual Black Tie and Sneakers Gala pays tribute to the legacy of Arthur Ashe and honors individuals and organizations whose work speaks to the Institute’s innovative community health education programs and research initiatives. The 23rd annual event took place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City on October 19, 2017. Known as the SportsBall 2017, featured at the event were interactive games, dinner, dancing, entertainment, an awards ceremony, and a silent auction. Guests each received a pair sneakers compliments of the institute.

This year’s honorees are: Mary T. Bassett, MD, commissioner – NYC Department of Mental Health

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The Positive Community December 2017

& Hygiene; Kathy Hirata Chin, Esq., senior counsel, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, LLP; Robert Gore, MD, ER physician at SUNY Downstate; and Soledad O’ Brien, award-winning journalist, speaker and author. Cheryl Wills, author, NY1 News anchor and David Ushery, anchor, NBC 4 New York served as co-hosts.

During his professional tennis career, Ashe won three Grand Slam titles, was the first black player selected to the United States Davis Cup team, and the only black man ever to win the singles title at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open, an accomplishment that still holds today. After struggles with heart disease he retired from tennis in 1980 with a career record of 818 wins, 260 losses and 51 titles.

During a second bypass surgery in 1983, Ashe received a blood transfusion through which he contracted human immunodeficiency virus or HIV. He spent the last few months of his life writing Days of Grace, his memoir, finishing it only days before his death. Arthur Ashe was much admired during his lifetime, and is still remembered as a great American. —JNW www.thepositivecommunity.com

2017 Pierre Toussaint Scholarship Fund Awards Dinner

BY THE ARCHDIOCESE OF NEW YORK, OFFICE OF BLACK MINISTRY

L–R: Bro. Tyrone Davis and Dr. Pernessa Seele Photos: Omari Holley

Dr. Pernessa Seele, founder/CEO of The Balm in Gilead

L–R:Alumnae, Stephanie Henry; Scholar, David Le; Alumnae, Sara Sutton; Scholars Abdul Mustafa, Nancy San Innocence, Juliemarie Hernandez; Alexis Rosales-Hernandez; and PTSF volunteer, Benny Rivera

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orn in modern-day Haiti and brought to New York City as a slave, Pierre Toussaint died a free man, a renowned hairdresser, and one of New York City’s most well-known Catholics. Pierre Toussaint was born into slavery on the French colony of Saint Domingue. His master, Jean Berard, encouraged the young Pierre to learn to read and write. In 1787, Berard moved his new wife and several slaves, including Pierre and his younger sister Rosalie, to New York City.

Pierre established a good reputation among New York’s elite as a hairdresser, and used the money he earned to buy his sister’s freedom, though he remained a slave. At the age of 41, Pierre was granted his freedom upon the death of Madame Berard and married Juliette Noel, whose freedom he also purchased.

Together they continued charitable work Pierre had begun informally, helping refugees find jobs and caring for orphans. Next, the couple opened a school to teach black children a trade.

When the plague struck New York, Pierre personally cared for the victims. Pierre died on June 30, 1853, and was buried in a New York cemetery next to Juliette and their adopted daughter, Euphemia.

In 1968, the long process to canonize Pierre Toussaint as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church began.

In 1990, his body was moved to a crypt under the main www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Timothy Cardinal Dolan and Rev. Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook

altar of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

Created in his honor, the Pierre Toussaint Scholarship Program provides scholarships for college student-leaders, from the Archdiocese of New York. The Annual Venerable Pierre Toussiant Awards Dinner is one of the major sources of support for the program.

The dinner and the Pierre Toussaint Scholarship Fund (PTSF) also provide support for College Pierre Toussaint (CPT), a quality secondary school in Sassier, Haiti (in the Diocese of Jeremie).

During this special evening of fellowship, the Archdiocese of New York honors outstanding individuals. Since 1978, this award has been presented to distinguished persons for their positive leadership, extraordinary efforts in support of human life, human rights & social justice, spiritual values, and quality education and health care for all the people of God. Dr. Pernessa Seele, founder/CEO of The Balm in Gilead, a national and international health advocacy organization, received the Archdiocesan Pierre Toussaint Medallion.

Monsignor Paul Lenz, a former director of the National Black & Indian Mission Fund was honored posthumously.

Also remembered were Monsignor Howard Calkins, a much beloved priest and pastor of the Archdiocese of N.Y., and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of N.Y. on the occasion of its Centennial Anniversary!

December 2017 The Positive Community

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Op-Ed Commentary

Building Newark’s College-Going Culture

By Reginald Lewis Executive Director of the Newark City of Learning Collaborative

“We have smart children in Newark.

We just need a few more resources and the belief that we can all succeed.”

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ith those words, Kim Boerrigter, 2017 graduate of Malcom X. Shabazz High School; Harvard University Class of 2021, summed up both Newark’s potential and the challenges the city must overcome so that her success becomes the rule, not the exception.

Recent progress provides hope.

In just a few years, the Newark Public Schools’ high school graduation rate rose to 73% from 53%. And more graduates are being accepted to college: 75% of the class of 2017 gained admission to a two- or four-year institution, including Kim and six of her classmates who entered Ivy League institutions this fall.

Still, more work is needed for Newark to approach New Jersey’s statewide graduation rate of 90%. This is the mission of the Newark City of Learning Collaborative (NCLC), which works with the school system, businesses, community organizations, and other partners to build the citywide collegegoing culture that is crucial to more students enjoying success.

A college-going culture means an environment where every child, regardless of neighborhood, zip code, or high school, is expected to come to school, do well in school, and adequately prepare to succeed at the college level.

The Newark Public Schools (NPS) and NCLC work together in a range of activities aimed at reaching the goals:

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The Positive Community December 2017

• College Talk – daily conversations in schools to help students understand what’s required to stay on track to graduate and on a path that leads to college • Expectations – all students are expected to achieve at a high-level, with explicit goals for preparation clearly laid out for students and parents • Key Resources – up-to-date information about colleges and other post-high school options, like highquality certification programs, are easily available to all students A newly created NCLC/NPS position, the Higher Education Liaison, is solely focused on providing students,

parents, guidance counselors, teachers, and administrators information and resources related to college that many promising students never obtained before. The partnership with NPS has led to the sponsorship of an annual district-wide college fair, where students and families meet representatives from colleges around the country.

The fair also helps raise awareness and encourage aspirations toward college.

The second annual fair, which took place in October, enabled hundreds of students from around the city, including district, charter, county vocational, and parochial, to explore their options beyond high school.

Continued on next page

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Newark’s College-Going Culture Continued from previous page

L–R: Yvonne L. Witter, outgoing president with newly installed President Paula Madison-Ryner

100 BLACK WOMEN Induction Ceremony of New President, Officers and Incoming Members

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ore than 125 guests came to witness the swearing in of Paula Madison-Ryner as president of the 100 black Women, Bergen/Passaic Chapter (NCBW 100) on Saturday, October 7, 2017 at the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly, New Jersey. The new board of directors and new members also took the oath of office in a ceremony presided over by the Honorable Judge Sandra Robinson.

Mrs. Paula Madison-Ryner is the eighth elected president of the organization and has been a member since 2006, serving in various positions including health committee chair, fundraising chair, elections chair and a member of the National Health Committee. She is a health professional with over 20 years’ experience in the healthcare and public health fields. Madison-Ryner is a strong advocate for health causes and issues. She is currently working on her doctorate degree in Health Administration at Seton Hall University.

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December 2017 The Positive Community

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Photo: Karen Waters

The College Fair is just one way NCLC and NPS provide students and families information needed to make informed decisions about applying to college, financial assistance, and securing a degree or high-quality credential. This past summer, Rutgers University-Newark and eight other colleges joined NCLC in hosting a series of college knowledge workshops around the city, “Secrets to College Admissions,” designed to demystify what can appear as a challenging admissions and financial aid process, particularly the completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Newark’s FAFSA completion rate of 47% underscores the difficulties faced by many families in taking advantage of this resource.

Early college planning is essential for overcoming barriers to college enrollment and completion. Research confirms that having college plans by 10th grade increases the likelihood of attending college by 21%, compared to plans developed during the senior year. Recognizing this, NCLC’s College Pathway Initiative engages students early, while supporting their academic and social-emotional needs. Twohundred 10th graders along with young people who have dropped out of school and want to reengage, were recruited for the initiative.

As promising as these efforts are, establishing a collegegoing culture in Newark will not happen overnight. Building on progress to date will require the involvement of everyone in the community. With more of our students graduating from high school and ultimately securing a degree or credential, more Newark residents will be able to get good jobs, support their families, and build a future in a thriving city.

For more information on NCLC’s College Pathway Initiative and how to get involved, visit www.nclc2025.org.

Union Baptist Church Pastor’s Aide a Gospel Extravaganza

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everend Stanley Shannon and Pastor’s Aide of Union Baptist Church presented a Gospel Extravaganza on September 23 in Brooklyn, at the Renaissance Brownstone. Featured artists included The Mighty Soul Savers, Florence, SC; The Golden Tones, Brooklyn, N.Y.; The Heavenly Homeboys, Brooklyn, N.Y.; Brownsville Community B.C. Male Chorus; Leroy & The Shining Stars; Holy House of Prayer Choir; St. Anthony B.C. Male Chorus; and Rev. Dr. Joan Brightharp (pictured above).

Essex County Executive Joseph N. Divincenzo, Jr. Kicks Off His Re-Election Campaign

L–R: U.S. Senator Cory Booker, Newark Councilman Donald Payne, Jr. with Joseph D. Divincenzo, Jr.

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ccompanied by elected officials and community leaders from all sections of the County and around the State, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. (at microphone) kicked off his re-election campaign for Essex County Executive in the Essex County Veterans Memorial Park in Newark on Monday, December 11th. Among those endorsing DiVincenzo were U.S. Senators Robert Menendez and

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Cory Booker, Governor-Elect Phil Murphy, Lt. GovernorElect Sheila Oliver, NJ State Senate President Steve Sweeney, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and Essex County Democratic Committee Chairman Leroy Jones. Pictured with DiVincenzo are (from left) Governor-Elect Murphy, NJ State Senator Teresa Ruiz, Sheriff Armando Fontoura, Lt. Governor-Elect Sheila Oliver, and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. www.thepositivecommunity.com

New Jersey Black Issues Convention 35th Annual Leadership Conference Rev. Timothy Levi Jones, pastor of Bethany BC Newark

“Still We Rise: Moving NJ’s Black Agenda Forward”

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he NJBIC 35th Annual Black Leadership Conference, a state-wide forum, was attended by 800 community leaders and activists on September 2829,2017 at the Masonic Temple and Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, New Jersey. NJBIC Program Chair Patricia Williamson stated, “Speakers from public, private, non-profit, and education contributed to our theme ‘Still We Rise: Moving NJ’s Black Agenda Forward’ by presenting the most current information on numerous major topics affecting the Black Community.” Forums and seminars on both days focused on NJBIC’s four strategic program areas of the Democracy Act: Anti-Poverty, Fair and Effective Policing, Health, and Environment.

The Opening Session featured Rev. Timothy Levi Jones, pastor of Bethany Baptist Church Newark who delivered a stirring keynote speech, while NJ Attorney General Christopher Porino delivered remarks on NJBIC partnership projects in Fair and Effective Policing.

– Courtesy BIC

L–R: Reva Foster NJBIC chair, New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porino, and Jerome Harris, NJBIC chairman emeritus

NJBIC Women of Power; L–R: Reva Foster; Jeannine La Rue; Gayle Thigpen-Allen; Debra Jennings, and Patricia Williamson join luncheon keynote speaker (center) Michellene Davis, Esq. executive vice president & Corporate affairs officer, RWJBarnabas Health. www.thepositivecommunity.com

December 2017 The Positive Community

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REV. DR. CHARLES BUTLER WEALTH BUILDING

Will We Be Ready for Him When He Comes?

Rev. Dr. Charles Butler is the VP of Equitable Development, Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI).

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n the Gospel according to St. Mark, 13:35-37, we find Jesus giving a clear warning to His disciples. They should watch and pray in anticipation of His return. His return is imminent. He is coming again.

As believers we must remain steadfast, unwavering in our faith. We are to stand on God’s Holy Word. Jesus said heaven and earth will pass away, but my words shall not pass away (Mark 13:31). His Word is faithful and true. The Word of God is a light unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalms 119:105). We must have the Word of God planted in our heart, so we can know the will of God in our life.

Today, the church must remain vigilant. We must remain alert. We must remain focused on doing God’s will. We cannot allow ourselves to get sidetracked with irrelevant matters that have no spiritual value. We cannot allow ourselves to get distracted by personal, petty jealousies or caught up in worthless, idle gossip. These behaviors do more to divide than to unite the church. There should be no division among the body of Christ.

We must all work together on one accord. The church must be prepared for His return.

Is doubt creeping into the church? After all He’s been gone for over 2,000 years. However, 2nd Peter 3:8-10 states, “A day with the Lord is like a thousand years and a thousand years is like a day. God is not slack concerning His promise as some men count slackness, but is longsuffering towards us, not willing that anyone should perish, but that all should come to repentance. No one knows the day or the hour except God the Father. He will come as a thief in the night.”

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The return of Jesus has taken too long. People have moved on with their lives. People have gotten involved with other stuff.

There is no time for Jesus. But Jesus provides us with this parable that the Son of Man is as a man taking a long journey who left his house. He gave authority to his servants, assigned every man his work, and commanded his porter to watch.

The church is to be working, faithfully serving the Lord. We don’t want to get too complacent, resting on past accomplishments. No one wants to be caught by surprise. Can you imagine that happening in the church? Jesus returning and we’re not ready to receive Him! Do you know how embarrassing it will be to say, “We are not ready for you yet! Come back later.”

No one knows when Jesus is coming, except God the Father.

But we do know for sure, He is coming again! The question that must be asked is what will Jesus find going on inside of His church upon His return? Are we being the spiritual body that we should be, or have we gone desperately astray? Are we being a voice for the poor, the widows, and orphans; or have we become silent and insensitive to the plight of others? Are we truly able to demonstrate love for our brothers in need? Are we speaking out against injustice, immorality, corporate greed, and government corruption, or just turning a blind eye?

Let’s get it right and serve Him with gladness, serve Him with faithfulness, serve Him with all our heart, soul, strength, and might. Let us love our neighbors and pray for our enemies. Let’s put aside all fighting, backbiting, envy, and jealousy that are preventing us from faithful service so one day we can hear Him say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams, Jr.; First Lady Gelaine Williams; and son, Jesse T. Williams, III

L–R: Rev. Dr. James B. Logan, Rev Dr. James B. Barnwell, Rev. Dr. James Kilgore, Rev. Dr. Edgar W. Howard, Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams, Rev. John L. Scott, and Rev. Jeffrey M. Crenshaw

Harlem Community Celebration With the Convent Avenue Baptist Church

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n September 30th 2017, The Harlem community came out to celebrate with the Convent Avenue Baptist Church family at the View of the Hudson.

They honored their man of God, the Rev. Dr. Jesse T Williams, Jr., who celebrated his 10th anniversary as their illustrious pastor. The Rev. Dr. James Logan, senior pastor of Messiah Baptist Church of Bridgeport, CT and a son

of the Convent family, was the master of ceremony of this wonderful event. The guest preacher, Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church of Mt Vernon, NY, gave a powerful word from the Lord as he spoke on the significance of “Oh.” It was an elegant afternoon filled with faith, family, and friends sharing love for a pastor of the people, and for the people.

Luncheon Committee: L–R: Amber Greene; Stephanie D. Brown; Catherine Coleman; Mary Redd; Rev. Jesse T. Williams, Jr., Tanya Miller; Suprena Millet; and Andreas Goreé

Photos: Phil Jackson of Shotworks Photography

L–R: Guest pastor Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson; Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams, Jr.; First Lady Gelaine Williams; First Lady Virginia C. and Rev. Dr. James B. Logan

www.thepositivecommunity.com

December 2017 The Positive Community

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The Elevation of God’s Chosen Servant Rev. Curtis Belle and First Lady Diana Belle

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he General Baptist Convention of NJ, North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association, clergy, dignitaries, elected officials, family, friends, and well-wishers gathered from near and far on a steamy afternoon to celebrate the Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr. and his wife, Diana, as they became Pastor and First Lady Belle of Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ. The Belle family joined Community Baptist Church of Englewood in October, 2000. Rev. Belle served four years there as Minister of Discipleship and Christian Education.

In June 2016, he was appointed to serve as the interim pastor at Clear View, then elected as the church’s sixth pastor on June 24, 2017, succeeding Rev. Eric M. Beckham, who now pastors Zion Baptist Church of Marietta, Georgia.

This union of pastor and people was ordained by God. Moderator, Rev. Ralph M. Branch, Jr. of North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association and pastor of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Newark, NJ, presided over the order of service, while the official Act of Installation was conducted by Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr. Pastor Taylor’s sermon, titled “Eternity is at Stake – Stay Focused,” was taken from 2nd Timothy 4:1-5 KJV.

Clear View Baptist Church Pastoral Installation Service Pastor Taylor encouraged Rev. Belle to “preach the word, keep a clear mind and stand on the word! Encourage… preach with conviction... preach Jesus!”

In his closing remarks, Rev. Belle addressed Rev. Taylor, acknowledging the appreciation he feels for the blessing he has received from him including opportunities to serve, mentoring, and shaping his journey.

Rev. Belle and First Lady Diana Belle both thanked the Community Baptist Church of Englewood and all in attendance for their love and support throughout the years. Clear View Baptist Church was thanked for blessing, loving and receiving them.

Rev. Belle and First Lady Diana Belle stated “There’s no other place we would rather be than at Clear View Baptist Church.” Both promised and proclaimed that they will serve Clear View Baptist Church with excellence, and love the people with all their heart.

Happily married for 30 years, Rev. Curtis and First Lady Diana Belle are raising two beautiful and exemplary daughters, Khadijah and Miya; and state unequivocally that they are honored to serve Clear View Baptist Church.

Photos: Karen Waters

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

The United Missionary Baptist Convention of New Jersey

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he United Missionary Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc. convened its 5th Annual session Monday, October 9, thru October 12 and the host church was Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey. Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, South Hackensack, NJ, serves as convention president.

L–R: Rev. André W. Milteer; President Curry; and Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris, Vice President

Constituent pastors and churches, gathered over four nights in worship, praise, and thanks to God, for this 5th celebratory milestone. President Curry delivered his presidential address to the body on night four, with soul-stirring music provided by the convention choir, and an inspirational word from Sis. Morrast with the women’s auxiliary.

Sis. Eucelyn Morrast, Women's Auxiliary president Photos: Joann Pearson

Tyler-Marie Council and Michael Belle Wed

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yler-Marie Council and Michael Belle were joined in holy matrimony on July 8, 2017 at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Amityville, NY. For the full story visit www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

From November, 2017 TPC Magazine, page 47

CORRECTION: Rev. Dr. Carl and First Lady Bernita Washington December 2017 The Positive Community

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Culture

music, art + literature

Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. Enstooled in Ghana Swearing the oath of allegiance to the king and kingdom

LEFT: Presentation of the candidate to King Osagyefuo

BELOW: The new chief in traditional regalia Photos: Courtesy First Baptist Church at Lincoln Gardens

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he October, 2017 trip to Ghana marked the fifth excursion to that country led by Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr., senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, and founder of the dfree Financial Freedom Movement. His Majesty Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, King of the Royal Akyem (pronounced achem) Kingdom in the Eastern Region of Ghana, hosted the group of 36 from First Baptist.

Dr. Soaries has traveled to Ghana himself seven times.

On his first trip, 10 years ago, the king bestowed on him the title "Nko-suor-hene" (meaning development chief) for the entire Kingdom, and christened him Barima Kwadwo Ababio (pronounced Ba-re-mah Ko-jo Aba-beoh)., a chieftaincy seldom given to non-Akyem citizens.

By virtue of his position as chief, Dr. Soaries is recognized as a citizen of the Royal Akyem Kingdom of Ghana, a member of the Akyem Traditional State Council (the kingdom's equivalent to US Senate), and forerunner of all developmental projects, programs, and events in the kingdom.

The10-day tour also included visits to seven cities, towns, and villages across the country. – JNW

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

giants of jazz

20th Anniversary Celebration Honored Buster Williams Stor y and Photos: Risasi Dais

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POSITIVE MUSIC MATTERS!™

wenty years ago, jazz bassist John Lee saw a serious need to create a venue to keep jazz alive in the South Orange area where many professional jazz musicians reside. Subsequently, he proposed and created an annual jazz concert which honored legendary jazz musicians who have contributed and deeply impacted jazz music. This annual jazz concert, which honors a specific jazz legend, is called “Giants of Jazz.” For the past 20 years, this amazing yearly jazz concert has proven to be an incredibly successful event that has been strongly supported by the Village of South Orange with performances by world-renowned jazz musicians.

This year’s sold-out Giants of Jazz concert at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) honored jazz bassist Buster Williams. Williams, who has played worldwide with many legendary musicians, has recorded and collaborated with jazz giants including Art Blakey, Betty Carter, Carmen McRae, Dexter Gordon, Jimmy Heath, Gene

Bassist John Lee, Giants of Jazz organizer, poses with Buster Williams. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Ammons, Herbie Hancock, Mary Lou Williams, Eddie Henderson, and many more. As a 20-year-old, Sarah Vaughan took Buster on his first European tour. During his tour of the French Rivera, he met Miles Davis, Ron Carter, George Coleman, Tony Williams, and Herbie Hancock— who would heavily influence his future work as a jazz musician.

In 1990, after almost 30 years playing as a sideman, Buster formed his own musical group, “Something More.”

The group has toured the world sharing the joy, artistry, and excitement of jazz. In addition to touring, Buster has also instructed and inspired young music students as their music teacher, which pays dividends of its own.

Recently, on a chilly Saturday night in South Orange, New Jersey, approximately 30 professional jazz musicians— including several of Buster’s music students—honored him by playing at this year’s Giants of Jazz concert. The roster was a who’s who of jazz musicians, with performances by jazz luminaries: Reggie Workman, Roy Hargrove, Jimmy Cobb, Christian McBride, Don Braden, Steve Davis, Orrin Evans, Mark Gross, Freddie Hendrix, Stefon Harris, Brandon McCune, Rufus Reid, Wallace Roney, Lenny White, Steve Turre, Larry Willis, Bruce Williams, Evan Sherman, Russell Malone, Emilio Modeste, Dylan Reis, Mike Clark, and Kojo Roney.

Adding to the love from his family, friends and fans, John Lee, the concert producer, presented Buster with the 2017 Giant of Jazz award. “This year’s Giant of Jazz event was a beautiful musical occasion honoring such a dignified jazz legend and a very humble, nice person, who has given the world so much great jazz music,” Lee commented, as he celebrated seeing his dream of bringing live jazz to South Orange become a reality for more than 20 years.

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AUDELCO’S 45 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE BLACK THEATER AWARDS

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he AUDELCO Awards® recently celebrated their 45th Annual Recognition Awards for Excellence in Black Theatre at Symphony Space in New York City.

Known as “The Viv” awards in honor of founder Vivian Robinson, the Viv pays tribute to black actors, actresses, writers, directors, and their crews. An active patron of Black Theatre, the late Robinson felt that blacks in theater were not receiving the recognition they deserved.

Co-hosted by Choreographer George Faison and Actress Brenda Braxton, the event opened with a warm welcome to all by actor Ralph Carter, former star of the popular television show, Good Times. Actor Jerome Preston Bates delivered an electrifying sermon-like speech, acknowledging the great black thespians of yesteryear. Rome Neal, AUDELCO’s executive organizer, presented a special Pioneer Award to writer and playwright Ishmael Reed.

Grace L. Jones, AUDELCO’s president, welcoming and thanking attendees at this year’s AUDELCO Awards 45th Celebration.

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December 2017 2018 December

Dominique Morisseau, actress, playwright, and book writer for the Broadway-bound musical Ain’t Too Proud To Beg: The Life & Times of The Temptations, received The Viv Outstanding Achievement Award, as did Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage (Broadway’s Sweat).

AUDELCO Board Member and acclaimed Producer of McDonald’s GospelFest A. Curtis Farrow received The Viv Special Achievement Award. AUDELCO President Grace L. Jones humbly accepted flowers and a standing ovation for her relentless work in continuing the legacy of Vivian Robinson. Former AUDELCO awardees include: Kerry Washington (AUDELCO’s first Rising star), George Faison, Loretta Abbott, André De Shields, Samuel L. Jackson, Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen, Denzel Washington, Barbara Montgomery, Sanaa Lathan, and others. Musical guests included Melba Moore singing “Follow Your Dreams” and singer Ron Grant.

Playwright Lynn Notttage

thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Additional AdditionalAwardees Awardeesincluded: included: Three ThreeMusketeers Musketeers • •Kate KateBashore Bashorefor forLighting LightingDesign Design • •Christopher Christopher&&Justin JustinSwader Swaderfor forSet SetDesign Design • •Rachel RachelDozier-Ezell Dozier-Ezellfor forCostume CostumeDesign Design • •Lugman LugmanBrown Brownfor forSound SoundDesign.

Design.

Bella: Bella:An AnAmerican AmericanTall TallTale Tale -•-•Robert RobertO’Hara O’Harafor forDirector/Musical Director/MusicalProduction Production • •NaTasha NaTashaYvette YvetteWilliams Williamsfor forOutstanding Outstanding Performance PerformanceininAAMusicalMusical-Female Female • •Camille CamilleA.A.Brown Brownfor forChoreography Choreography • •Musical MusicalProduction Productionofofthe theYear Year(Playwrights (PlaywrightsHorizons) Horizons)

Autumn Autumn • •Count CountStovall Stovallfor forBest BestSupporting SupportingActor Actor • •Paulette PauletteWashington Washingtonfor forBest BestSupporting SupportingActress Actress • •Richard RichardWesley Wesleyfor forBest BestPlaywright Playwright • •Jerome JeromePreston PrestonBates Batesfor forBest BestLead LeadActor Actor • •Dramatic DramaticProduction Productionofofthe theYear Year • •Norm NormLewis Lewisfor forOutstanding OutstandingPerformance Performanceinina a Musical-Male Musical-Male(Sweeney (SweeneyTodd, Todd,Negro NegroEnsemble EnsembleCompany) Company) • •Daughter Daughterofofthe theMock Mockfor forOutstanding OutstandingEnsemble Ensemble Performance Performance(Negro (NegroEnsemble EnsembleCompany) Company) • •Timothy TimothySimonson Simonsonfor forBest BestSolo SoloPerformance Performance(Adam) (Adam) • •Elizabeth ElizabethVan VanDykes Dykesfor forBest BestLead LeadActress Actress (Zora (ZoraNeale NealeHurston) Hurston) • •Two TwoTrains TrainsRunning Runningfor forBest BestRevival Revival (Black (BlackSpectrum SpectrumTheatre TheatreCompany) Company) • •Jordan JordanTyson Tysonreceived receivedthe theRising RisingStar StarAward Award

TOP TOP(L–R): (L–R): 1.1.Jordan JordanTyson Tysonposes poseswith withher herAUDELCO AUDELCO“Rising “RisingStar” Star”Award.

Award.2.2.Actor ActorRalph RalphCarter Carterspeaks speaksasas co-hosts co-hostsGeorge GeorgeFaison Faisonand andBrenda BrendaBraxton Braxtonlisten. listen.3.3.Woody WoodyKing, King,legendary legendarytheater theaterproducer producer BOTTOM BOTTOM(L–R): (L–R): 1.1.Richard RichardWesley, Wesley,writer writerofofAutumn Autumn2.2.Grace GraceL.L.Jones, Jones,poses poseswith withThelma ThelmaPollard, Pollard,recipient recipientofof the theSpecial SpecialPioneering PioneeringAward.

Award.3.3.Actress ActressElizabeth ElizabethVan VanDyke Dykeand andGeorge GeorgeFaison Faison

thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

December December2018 2018The ThePositive PositiveCommunity Community27 27 December 2017 The Positive Community 27

Role Call to Progress Church Tour First Baptist Church, Teaneck, NJ

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Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris

Photos: Karen Waters

n Sunday October, 2nd, Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris and the congregation at First Baptist Church hosted The Positive Community. In his remarks, Adrian Council reminded everyone in the multi-ethic and multi-cultural congregation that, above all, each of us has been entrusted to see to the progress of our children and the integrity of our collective soul—our culture. Through the stories of who we are and what we do, TPC asserts the dignity of our humanity and the great cultural milestones in our freedom journey!

Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ

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Rev. Dr. Edward and First Lady Virginia Harper

ev. Dr. Edward Harper, Macedonia Baptist Church in Lakewood, NJ, welcomed TPC publisher Adrian Council, Sr. on September 24, 2017. Council began a monthly church visitation tour to say “thank you” for their membership in our Roll Call, purchasing monthly bulk delivery of The Positive Community. Affirming our commitment to publishing the best of our communities with the congregation, he stressed our belief that every family should own the 104-page Obama Commemorative Edition. Pastor Harper and the congregation extended warm hospitality to the visitors and treated everyone to a sumptuous meal and fellowship after the service. Rev. Harper ‘s sermon for that day, “Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone,” can be accessed at www.thepositive community.com. We invite you to listen.

Photos: Karen Waters

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The Positive Community December 2017

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Adrian Council, Sr. Photos: Karen Waters

Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, pastor

Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church

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he newest member of TPC’s Great Roll Call to Progress, Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, in Roselle, NJ was the next stop.

On November 5th, Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, senior pastor, explained the urgent need to support quality African American-owned media companies so that we can tell our own story. In his remarks, thanking Pastor Bryan and the congregation, Council spoke of the value of mutual benefit, support, and trust.

Website

Go online & give the gift of a subscription !

www.thepositivecommunity.com

December 2017 The Positive Community

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JOANNE J. NOEL THE PREACHING PROFESSOR

Professor Joanne J. Noel, B.A., M.A., M. DIV., DMIN is Chair of General Studies and Associate Professor of English, Pillar College.

Routine Limits Potential

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oo often we become comfortable where we are. We settle. We get stuck with being satisfied. Oftentimes, the zone we are in currently is not meant to be our permanent place. There is always a higher place in God, and sometimes to help us achieve it, God has to interrupt our routine because routine can produce limitations, and limitations impede potential.

In his Theory of Human Motivation, Abraham Maslow said that as human beings we have certain needs.

He posited a hierarchy of human needs based on two groupings: deficiency needs and growth needs. Within the deficiency needs, each lower need must be met before moving to the next higher level. The five levels of needs include: physiological, safety, belonging and love, esteem, and self-actualization.

Zechariah may have been at the lower point of the esteem level because he wanted a child. In Israel, not having children was dishonorable because children propagated the lineage and ensured the survival of Jewish worship and faith. The Bible espouses the value of children, “Children are a heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man, so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them” (Ps. 127:3–5).

Having a child would bring Zechariah the status he needed and would cause others to respect him. However, at some point, he felt all he had left was his routine. He did his duty by serving occasionally in the temple.

Zechariah had settled.

Then God interrupted his routine. The angel Gabriel flew down from the celestial throne room of God, traveled through space and time, flew past Jupiter, past Venus, past Mars and made his descent into earth's atmosphere. He flew past Turkey, Iraq, Iran and landed in a small part of the Earth called Palestine, flew into Jerusalem and took his position in the Holy place where Zechariah was burning incense and said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord” (vv. 13-15).

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December 2017 2018 December

However, after many years of unanswered prayers, Zechariah really didn’t believe that the angel’s words were true; otherwise he would not have responded in disbelief when Gabriel affirmed that God had heard him. Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years" (Luke 1:18). Zechariah was praying but his prayers were by rote.

Rote occurs when we set up permanent dwellings around the rest stops in our lives. Zechariah and Elizabeth were old. From a physiological perspective, their age demarcated their potential. Thus, age became the rest stop that Zechariah would use to limit the potency of God. He settled. He believed that there were limitations with God. He settled for his own understanding of events. There is always a risk of dying with our potential unwrapped when we settle, but God loves us too much to leave us at a level that's below our potential, so God interrupts routine. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Please Join Us for a Reception to Celebrate The Newark School of Theology Meet the Founder, The Rev. Dr. Douglas Bendall, Ph.D. & Trustees, Directors, Faculty, and Alumni

Refreshments Served Admission is Free Donations Accepted RSVP: nstnewark@aol.com

Celebrate 20 Years of Educational Ministry 6 o’clock pm • January 11, 2018 The Newark Public Library/Centennial Room 5 Washington Street, Newark 07101

www.thepositivecommunity.com

December 2017 The Positive Community

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MLK Jr. Day MoNday, January 15, 2018 noon-5 pm | activities noon-4 pm

Activities for Kids & Adults This special community day includes musical and spoken word performances, hands-on activities for all ages, and a viewing of Joachim Prinz - I Shall Not Be Silent.

We honor Dr. King’s legacy with a dramatic reading of his Letter from Birmingham Jail and screening of the “I Have a Dream” speech.

Also Don’t Miss our Planetarium Shows:

Legends of the Night Sky: Orion and Skywatchers of Africa

Supported by:

investorsFoundation

newarkmuseum.org

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Jersey.On OnJanuary January15, 15,2018, 2018,Imhotep ImhotepGary GaryByrd, Byrd, of its kind in New Jersey. On January 15, 2018, Imhotep Gary Byrd, (radio (radiopersonality, personality,poet, poet,songwriter) songwriter)will willbebethe thekeynote. keynote.The The (radio personality, poet, songwriter) will be the keynote. program programincludes includesbreakfast, breakfast,community communityservice serviceawards, awards,scholarships scholarships The program includes breakfast, community service awards, and andentertainment entertainmentfrom fromPlainfield’s Plainfield’stalented talentedyouth. youth.Tickets Tickets$15 $15 scholarships and entertainment from Plainfield’s talented youth. general; general;$10 $10for forSeniors Seniorsand andStudents.

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Tickets $15 general; $10 for Seniors and Students. ..

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The Positive Community December 2017

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Once On This Island An interview with Hailey Kilgore

BY ESTHER PAUL

EP: So, Hailey, you recently said that musical theater has always been a passion of yours. Is Broadway everything you imagined it to be?

HK: Yes! This is a community of people who work so incredibly hard and put their whole lives into these projects. There are some people who get to experience Broadway once or twice in their lives and some who never get to experience it. So, stepping into this community has been everything I’ve ever dreamed of, and more.

EP: Great! What was it like working on Once on This Island?

HK: Working on Once on This Island was great. I went headfirst into rehearsals and that made it so fun and colorful. It was a very interesting process because we were creating a show in the rounds. It wasn’t just a show for proscenium, so we really had to create this universe in just under a month. It was a lot of fun.

EP: What about the cast? Is everyone as energetic backstage?

HK: Oh, the cast is incredible! Everyone has really become a family and a lot of us spend time together outside the theatre. I grew up hearing Lea Salonga, who was a Disney princess; and Alex Newell, who himself is for the Gods, no pun intended. Also, people like Kenita Miller and Phillip Boykin, whose voices are so specific and will stab you in the heart with pain and sorrow.

Everyone put their hearts into this show.

EP: I saw that the search for ‘Ti Moune’ started in Haiti then expanded to the U.S. How did you feel when you landed the role?

HK: It was a feeling that I am still learning how to describe.

I think that moment I realized that my life was really going www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Joan Marcus

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hythm, singing, acting, dancing — did someone say Broadway? Every season is Broadway season and this season they are revisiting the 90s. The musical, Once on This Island, opened in October of 1990 and ran through December 1, 1991. On December 3, 2017, it returned, at Circle in the Square Theatre.

Once on This Island is a fable based on the life of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the mythical Caribbean island. When their divided cultures keep the young lovers apart, Ti Moune is guided by the powerful island gods Erzuile, Asaka, Papa Ge, and Agwe, on a remarkable quest to reunite with the man who has captured her heart.

This year, the show introduced us to an 18-year-old newcomer, Hailey Kilgore, who graced the stage as Ti Moune. Hailey shed light on her experience on stage, the unexplainable feeling of finding out she landed the role, and even what her dream role might be, in an exclusive interview.

Hailey Kilgore

to change. There were so many young women who could tell the story flawlessly, so I am honored they chose me.

Another part of it was that my parents weren’t there and I was doing the workshops on my own. Ti Moune has this moment where she becomes a grown up and takes on these responsibilities, and I think I also had this moment.

EP: You mentioned your parents. I know, like Ti Moune, you’re also adopted. Is there any other way that you relate to her?

HK: Well, everything makes me curious. I think Ti Moune is the type of girl where everything excites her. So, it’s little things like those — like her love and appreciation for things and what they can be or their potential. I think that those are things that I have in common with her.

EP: That’s great. Tell me, what’s your dream role?

HK: You know, it changes about every day. (Sighs) Do I really have to pick one? I want to be Princess Tiana! (A Disney princess from the movie The Princess and the Frog) I have such a love for musical genres so, you know, there isn’t one show that I limit myself to.

EP: Well, I would love to see that happen one day. You’re only 18 years old. That’s still so young! Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

HK: Hopefully working. I would love to have done TV, and an action filled movie. I would also love to continue my Broadway career.

Esther Paul is a Journalism student at Essex County College in Newark, NJ. She hopes to attend Pace University and have a career writing for a magazine or providing online content.

December 2017 The Positive Community

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The Last Word

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com December 2017

™

™

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 17, No. 11

CHRISTMAS IS FOR EVERYONE!

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter

F

Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Marc Williams Contributing Writers Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Glenda Cadogan Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Hubert Williams Brian Branch Price Karen Waters Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman Production Assistant April Davis Intern Esther Paul 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 © 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.

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December 2017 2018 December

or several years I have said simply and plainly, “I’m not a fan of Christmas.” When people seemed shocked or put-off by my statement, I’d sometimes try to clarify by explaining, “I don’t like all of the commercialism” and “Christmas is for children.” Often, people would nod approvingly and commiserate, expressing their frustration with long lines, high prices, postal deadlines, and the like.

That Wonderful Husband (TWH), on the other hand, LOVES Christmas! He wants the tree up and decorated the minute we finish dessert on Thanksgiving night! Every trip to Costco, the grocery or drug store takes seemingly forever because he feels obligated to (and sincerely enjoys) push every button on every Dancin’ Santa; ooh and ah over every Charlie Brown Christmas tree; and experience every item that flashes, dances, sings, spins or just sits on a shelf if it has anything remotely to do with Christmas. This year he discovered a Motown-inspired Christmas satellite music station and it has been in full effect in our home ever since.

Meanwhile, I force a smile as I take ibuprofen to stave off the jingle bellinduced headaches and try not to have seizures from all of the flashing lights while baking cookies and cakes for the holidays because they just make my husband so happy.

For the past two years, TWH has been kind enough to take me on a pre-holiday getaway the weekend before Christmas, and this year he proclaimed it an annual tradition going forward. We traveled to Sedona, Arizona, home of the famous red rocks, which are truly beautiful and awe inspiring. The weather is that perfect blend of winter and spring with overnight temperatures in the

20s and 30s that allow for winter snow, but daytime temperatures in the 40s and 50s that allow you to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Beyond the weather and the gorgeous mountains, I think TWH likes to go there for their holiday spirit.

The tiny town is transformed by what must be millions of Christmas lights and decorations. Holiday music wafts from outdoor speakers as lights sparkle, twinkle, and grab your imagination and your heartstrings.

Familiar faces from our childhood like Santa, Rudolph, and the Abominable Bumble made us giddy with laughter as we snapped photos and reminisced on holidays from our youth.

It dawned on me this year as we explored and experienced delight that Christmas is not, in fact, for children. Perhaps Santa and the toys are, but Christmas is really for all of us regardless of age. The pure joy and peace I experienced in Sedona reminded me of the reason for the season and the fact that Christmas is still Christmas without presents, lights, and all of the hoopla.

Christmas is about the spirit of the holiday, the joy of giving, and sharing the holiday with the people you love. Hopefully, the holiday lights and accoutrements help to inspire those feelings, but truly, they aren’t necessary.

As I both watched and experienced the kindness of strangers, I was awed by the power and glory of God’s love and spirit. The muchneeded weekend getaway inspired me to see the Christmas spirit embodied by TWH’s kindness, generosity, and love—not just during the holidays, but all year long.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

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