November 2017

National leaders.

Local address.

To find a specialist call 866-980-3462

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RYAN NETWORK RYAN/FREDERICK DOUGLASS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

Primary Health Care – Adult Medicine and Pediatrics Ryan/Frederick Douglass Community Health Center 2381 Frederick Douglass Blvd. (@ 128th Street) Call today for an appointment: 212- 866-4400 Center Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm Thursday, 11:00am – 7:00pm | Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm The Ryan/Frederick Douglass Community Health Center is part of the William F. Ryan Community Health Network – a provider of primary, preventive, specialty and support services throughout New York City for almost 50 years.

At Ryan, we believe that “healthcare is a right, not a privilege.”

We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans; affordable sliding fee available based on family size and income.

NOVEMBER 2017

Keisha Sutton-James photos by Regina Fleming Photography

CONTENTS

29

SECTIONS MONEY ...................................14 EDUCATION.............................20 HEALTH...................................26 CULTURE ................................46

Features Gov.-Elect Meet & Greet .......................................... 16

ON THE COVER: Keisha Sutton-James shares the story of how she connected with her faith through a health crisis and some of the most difficult times of her life.

&also inside Publisher’s Desk ................................ 10 My View ............................................. 12

Potential Homebuyers Get A Lift! ............................. 18 Pillar College 10th Anniversary ................................. 19 MSU’s Women Entrepreneurship Conference ............ 20 Chatting with Astronaut Guion Bluford, Jr. ................ 22 See, Test, Treat ......................................................... 26 Newark Beth Israel’s 1,000th Transplant Milestone .... 36

Spiritual Wealth Building ..................... 17 Healthcare Executives Scholarship Gala .................. 38 The Fitness Doctor ............................. 44 Seacoast District Hosts GNBCNJ ............................. 42 Gospel Train ....................................... 52 WHGA 46th Anniversary Gala ................................... 46 The Way Ahead .................................. 56 The Last Word .................................... 58 Newark Inter-Faith Alliance Breakfast ...................... 48 4

The Positive Community November 2017

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We have the energy to make things better. [

... for you, for our communities and for our future.

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PSEG strives for inclusion of employees with diverse backgrounds. Diversity and inclusion drive success across our company, and are an essential part of everything we do, every day.

Pick up kids from school Buy Groceries Get Health Care

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Health care has been in the headlines a lot lately. What does it mean to you? At MetroPlus, getting affordable health insurance for your family doesn’t have to be complicated. Thanks to all the new MetroPlus Community Offices, chances are we’re not far from you. We’re everywhere from the Staten Island Mall to Parkchester in the Bronx. Sunset Park in Brooklyn to Skyview Mall in Queens. For a full list of neighborhood locations, visit metroplus.org. Drop in for a visit! And yes, you can bring the kids!

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Reginald Williams, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Center, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev.Christian A.R. Cultural Barnard, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev.Rev. A.R.A.R. Barnard, Barnard, Pastor Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev.Dr. A.R. Barnard, Pastor Rev. Ronald Christian, Pastor Christian Christian LoveLove B.C.,B.C., Irvington, Irvington, NJ NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Ronald Dr.Love Ronald Christian, Christian, Pastor Pastor Christian B.C., Irvington, NJ NJ Clear Baptist Church, Newark, Rev. Dr.View Ronald Christian, Pastor Clear View View Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev.Clear Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, Rev. Rev. Eric Eric M. Beckham, M. Beckham, M.Div., M.Div., MFTMFT NJ Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT Community B.C., B.C., Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev.Community Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, Rev. Rev. 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AllenBaptist Thompson, Jr., PastorNJ General Baptist Convention, Convention, NJ NJ Rev.General Dr. Baptist Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President General Baptist Convention, Rev. Rev. Dr. Lester Dr. Lester W. Taylor, W. Taylor, Jr., President Jr., NJ President Good Neighbor Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President Good Neighbor Neighbor Baptist Baptist Church Church Rev.Good Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Good Church Rev. Rev. Dr.Neighbor George Dr. George A. Baptist Blackwell, A. Blackwell, III, Pastor III, Pastor Grace C., Mt.A.Vernon, NY III, Pastor Rev. Dr.B.George Blackwell, Grace B. Franklyn C.,B.Mt. C., Vernon, Mt. NY NY Pastor Rev.Grace Dr. W. Vernon, Richardson, Grace B.Dr.C., Mt.W.Vernon, NY Pastor Rev. Rev. Dr. Franklyn Franklyn Richardson, W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Greater Abyssinian Abyssinian BC, Newark, BC, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, Rev. Rev. AllenAllen Potts, Potts, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor NJ Greater HillSenior B.C., Pastor Harlem, NY Rev. AllenZion Potts, Greater Zion Hill Hill B.C., Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev.Greater Dr.Zion Frank J. B.C., Blackshear, Pastor Greater Zion Harlem, NY Rev. Rev. Dr. Frank Dr. Frank J.Hill Blackshear, J.B.C., Blackshear, Pastor Pastor Harlem Congregations for Rev. Dr. FrankImprovement J. Blackshear,(HCCI) Pastor Community Harlem Harlem Congregations Congregations for for Community Community Improvement (HCCI) Malcolm A. Improvement Punter, President &(HCCI) CEO Harlem Congregations for Community Malcolm Malcolm A. Punter, A.Improvement Punter, President President &(HCCI) CEO & CEO Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Malcolm A. 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AME Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Mount Zion Baptist Church, Dr. Lanel Guyton, Pastor Rev. Rev. BarryBarry R. Miller, R. Miller, Pastor Pastor Westwood, NJ St. Rev. Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev.St. Rev. Dr.Matthew Lanel Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, D. Guyton, Pastor Pastor Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor St. B.C., NJ Mt.Rev. Olivet Mt.André Olivet B.C, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ W.B.C, Milteer, Pastor Rev.Paul's Dr. Lanel D.Montclair, Guyton, Pastor St. Paul's St. Paul's B.C., B.C., Montclair, Montclair, NJ NJ Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor Rev.Rev. André André W. Milteer, W. Milteer, Pastor Pastor Mt. Church,Pastor Trenton, NJ B.C., Glover, Montclair, NJ Rev.St. Rev. Dr.Paul's Bernadette Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor Pastor Rev.Zion AndréAME W. Milteer, St. Community B.C., Pastor Brooklyn, NY Mt.Rev. Zion Mt.J.Zion AME AME Church, Church, Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Stanley Justice, Pastor Rev.Paul Dr. Bernadette Glover, St. Rev. Paul St. Paul Community Community B.C.,Pastor B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Mt. AME Church, Trenton, David K. Brawley, Rev. Rev. J.Zion Stanley J. Stanley Justice, Justice, Pastor Pastor NJ New J.Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev.St. Paul B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David David K.Community Brawley, K. Brawley, Pastor Pastor Rev. Stanley Justice, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ New New Hope Baptist Baptist Church, Metuchen, Metuchen, NJ NJ Rev. Dr.Hope Ronald L.Church, Owens, Pastor Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor The New New Hope Hope B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ New Baptist Metuchen, NJ TheRev. Rev. Rev. Dr.Hope Ronald Dr. Ronald L. Owens, L.Church, Owens, Pastor Pastor Joe Carter, Senior Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of The Hope B.C., Newark, Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor Rev. Rev. JoeNew Joe Carter, Carter, Senior Senior Pastor Pastor NJ Hackensack, Hackensack, New New HopeHope Baptist Baptist Church Church of NJ of Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, NJofNJ Rev. Dr. Frances Manning-Fontaine New Hope Baptist Church Union Union Baptist Baptist Temple,, Temple,, Bridgeton, Bridgeton, NJ NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Pastor Emeritus Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Frances Dr. Frances Manning-Fontaine Manning-Fontaine Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev.Union Rev. Albert Albert L. Morgan, L. Morgan, Pastor Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Pastor Pastor Emeritus EmeritusManning-Fontaine Rev. Dr. Frances Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor New Jerusalem Worship Center, United United Fellowship Fellowship B.C., B.C., Asbury Park,Park, NJ NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Asbury Pastor Pastor Emeritus Jamaica, NY Worship New New Jerusalem Jerusalem Worship Center, Center, United Fellowship B.C., Rev.Rev. James James H. Brown, H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Sr.,Asbury Pastor Park, NJ Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NY Rev. Calvin Rice, Senior Center, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C.Sr., Bronx, NewDr. Jerusalem Worship Rev. James H. Brown, PastorNY Jamaica, NYRice,Rice, Rev. Rev. Dr. Calvin Dr. Calvin Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Walker Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, Bronx, NY NY Rev. Dr. J.Memorial AlbertB.C. Bush Sr., Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Senior Pastor Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev.Walker Rev. Dr. J.Dr.Albert J. Albert BushBush Sr., Pastor Sr., Pastor New New Life Cathedral, Cathedral, Mt. Holly, Mt. Holly, NJ NJ Rev. EricLife Wallace, Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor New Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Rev. EricLife Eric Wallace, Wallace, Pastor Pastor Welcome Welcome Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C.Williams, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev.Welcome Rev. Dr. Elijah Dr. Elijah C.Williams, C.Williams, Pastor Pastor New New Zion Zion B.C., B.C., Elizabeth, Elizabeth, Rev. Kevin James, PastorNJ NJ World Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr.Gospel Elijah C.Williams, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, Rev. Rev. Kevin Kevin James, James, Pastor Pastor NJ World World Gospel Gospel Music Music Assoc., Assoc., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Kevin James, Pastor Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. World Albert Dr. Albert Lewis, Lewis, Founder Founder Paradise Paradise B. C., B.Newark, C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor & Organizations Dr. Businesses Albert Lewis, Founder Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Rev. Jethro Jethro James, James, Pastor Pastor Businesses Businesses & Organizations & Organizations Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, 125th St. BID Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Businesses & Organizations East Orange, NJ Disciples Park Park Ave Ave Christian Christian Disciples of Christ, of Christ, 125th City 125th St.National BID St. BIDBank County College, NJ East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Disciples Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor of Christ, Park Ave Christian City Essex National City National Bank 125th St.Harlem BID Bank Greater Chamber Essex Essex County County College, College, NJ NJof Commerce East Orange, NJ Pastor Rev. Rev. Harriet Harriet Wallace, Wallace, Pastor City National Bank Marion P. Thomas Charter School Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Greater Greater Harlem Harlem Chamber Chamber ofNJ Commerce of Commerce Essex County College, Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Mildred Crump, Newark CitySchool Council Marion Marion P. Thomas P. Thomas Charter Charter School Pilgrim Pilgrim B. C., B. Newark, C., Newark, NJ NJ Greater American Harlem Chamber of of Commerce Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Muslim Chamber Commerce Mildred Mildred Crump, Crump, Newark Newark City Council City Council Marion P. Thomas Charter School Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ NAACP New Jersey* Rev.Rev. Dr. Glenn Dr. Glenn Wilson, Wilson, Pastor Pastor Muslim Muslim American American Chamber Chamber ofCity Commerce of Commerce Mildred Crump, Newark Council Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ NAACP, NY State Conference* NAACP NAACP New Jersey* New Jersey* Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Muslim AmericanTheological Chamber of Commerce New Seminary Ruth Ruth Fellowship Fellowship Ministries, Ministries, Plainfield, NJ NJ NAACP, Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Plainfield, NAACP, NYBrunswick State NY State Conference* Conference* NAACP New Jersey* Performing Arts Center Brunswick NewJersey Brunswick Theological Theological Seminary Seminary Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Rev. Rev. Tracey Tracey Brown, Brown, Pastor Pastor Plainfield, NJ NewNew NAACP, NYTheological State Conference* New Seminary Jersey NewYork Jersey Performing Performing Arts Center ArtsSeminary Center Shiloh AMEBrown, Zion Church, New Brunswick Theological Rev. Tracey Pastor Englewood, NJ New NobleNNJ New York New Theological York Theological Seminary Seminary New Jersey Performing Center Shiloh Shiloh AMEAME Zion Zion Church, Church, Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ NobleNNJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Nubian Conservatory of Arts Music NobleNNJ New York Theological Seminary Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Nubian Rev. Rev. JohnJohn D. Givens, D. Givens, Pastor Pastor Nubian Conservatory Conservatory of Music of Music NobleNNJ Schomburg Center forNewark, Research Shiloh B.C., NJ Razac Razac Products Products Co., Newark, Co., NJ NJ Rev. John D. Plainfield, Givens, Pastor Nubian Conservatory of Music The College ofCenter New Rochelle Schomburg Center for Research for Research Shiloh Shiloh B.C.,B.C., Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ Sr., NJSenior Pastor Schomburg Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Razac Products Co., Newark, United Way ofofEssex WestNJHudson College The College of New Rochelle Newforand Rochelle Schomburg Center Research Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, Rev. Rev. Hodari Hodari K. Hamilton, K. Hamilton, Sr.,NJSenior Sr., Senior Pastor Pastor The WBGO-88.3FM United United Way of Way Essex of New Essex andRochelle West and West Hudson Hudson The College of West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor WBGO-88.3FM WBGO-88.3FM United Way of Essex and West Hudson WestWBGO-88.3FM West Harlem Harlem GroupGroup Assistance, Assistance, Inc. Inc.

WestBlack Harlem Group Assistance, “The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Church.

AllInc.churches “The “The Positive Positive Community Community magazine magazine does does outstanding outstanding work in promoting in promoting thethe good good works works of the of the Black Black Church.

Church.

All All churches churches The Positive Community . Please support this magazine, the only one and businesses should subscribe to and advertise inwork “and Theand Positive Community magazine outstanding in promoting the works of the Black Church.

All churches The Positive Positive Community Community .good Please . Please support support this this magazine, magazine, the only only oneone businesses businesses should should subscribe subscribe to does and to and advertise advertise in The inwork Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010 the that features good news about the black community.”— Community . Baptist Please support the only one andthat businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Rev.Positive Rev. Buster Buster Soaries, Soaries, General General Baptist Revival, Revival, Maythis May 20, magazine, 2010 20, 2010 that features features good good news news about about thethe black black community.”— community.”— that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

THE INCARN MINISTRY WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

THE INCARN MINISTRY WEEKLY NEWSLETTER Volume 1/ Issue 4 - November 19,NEWSLETTER 2017 THE INCARN MINISTRY WEEKLY Volume 19,2017 2017 Volume1/1/Issue Issue 44 -- November November 19,

2017 UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS

INCARN MINISTRY DIRECTORY – 3RD FLOOR Shakin the Mess Outta Misery 2017 UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS INCARN MINISTRY 2017 UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS INCARN MINISTRY Happy Thanksgiving!

- Rehearsals WHAT’S THIS WEEK? Written by Shay Youngblood WHAT’S NEWNEW THIS WEEK? DIRECTORY –4 3RD FLOOR DIRECTORY – 3RD FLOOR Prop Team – Rm Shakin the Mess Outta Misery Emancipated Glory rehearsals are Monday & Tuesday only for this Shakin the Mess Outta Misery Directed by Michele Hawkins-Jones Happy Thanksgiving!

- Rehearsals • Molisha Jones Happy Thanksgiving!

Rehearsals rd Written by Youngblood week at 6:45 p.m. Rehearsals scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 23 are Written byShay Shay Prop •TeamRose-Ann – Rm 4 Rock Date:Youngblood Emancipated Glory rehearsals are Monday & Tuesday only for this Performance Prop Team – Rm 4 Directed by Michele Hawkins-Jones cancelled for the holiday.

Emancipated Glory rehearsals are Monday & Tuesday only for this • Molisha Jones Directed by Michele Hawkins-Jones rd 11 a.m. week at 6:45 p.m. Rehearsals scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 23rd are Friday, December 4th at • Molisha Jones • Rose-Ann Rock Performance Date: week atcancelled 6:45 p.m.

Rehearsals scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 23 are Administration Team – Rm 5 INCARN MINISTRY MEETINGS for the holiday.

• Rose-Ann Rock Performance Date: Location: NYS Veterans Home of St. • Diane Sanders Friday, December 4th at 11 a.m. cancelled for the holiday.

Going forward, there is a time change to our weekly Tuesday Administration Team Albans December 4th at 11 a.m.

Friday, INCARN MINISTRY MEETINGS • Karen Rock– Rm 5 meetings to 12 p.m.

Location: NYSBoulevard Veterans Home of St. Team – Rm 5 ••Administration Diane INCARN MEETINGS 17850 Linden Going forward, there isMINISTRY a time change VictoriaSanders Heath-Credle This week’s meeting will be held at: to our weekly Tuesday Location: NYS Veterans Home of St. Albans NY •• Karen Rock • Diane Sanders Jamaica, 11434 Yolanda Spence Going forward, a time Time: change to our weekly Tuesday meetingsthere to 12 is p.m.

12:30 p.m.

17850 Linden Boulevard Albans • Victoria Heath-Credle • Karen Rock This will be held at: meetings to week’s 12 p.m.meeting Location: Siloam Presbyterian Church Jamaica, NY 11434 • Yolanda Spence Costume Team Rm 6 Heath-Credle 17850 Linden Boulevard • –Victoria The Package Time: 12:30 p.m. NY 11216 This week’s meeting be held at: 260will Jefferson Ave, Brooklyn, ▪ Pamela Blount Spence Jamaica, NY 11434 Created by: Kenya Cagle • Yolanda Location: Siloam Church Time: 12:30Presbyterian p.m.

Costume Team Rm 6 ▪ Phyllis– Griffin The Package 260 Jefferson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ▪ Pamela Blount Sandra Jones Location: Siloam Presbyterian Church Performance Date: Cagle Created by: Kenya Team The Package PhyllisEllison Griffin– Rm 6 ▪Costume Terry Friday, December 1st at 7 p.m.

Jefferson Ave, to Brooklyn, NY 11216 We are260 in need of volunteers assistNEEDED backstage for the ▪ Pamela Blount VOLUNTEERS Sandra Jones Performance Date: Cagle ▪ Victoria Heath-Credle Created by: Kenya Emancipated Glory! & The Gift You’re Given productions.

▪ Phyllis Griffin ▪ Terry Ellison Friday, December 1st at 7 p.m.

We are in need of volunteers to assist backstage for the The Gift You’re Given VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ▪ of Victoria Heath-Credle ▪ Sandra Jones Chapel Meditation - Rm 7 Performance Date: Please contact: Emancipated Glory! & The Gift You’re Given productions.

▪ Elder Butch ▪ TerryCarr Ellison Written MonetGiven Thibou Friday, December 1st at 7 p.m.

Spence/Email: The Giftby: You’re We are in needYolanda of volunteers to assist incarn@mtpisgahny.org backstage for the Chapel of Meditation - RmHeath-Credle 7 Please contact: ▪ Victoria Directed by: James S. Washington Emancipated Glory! & The Gift You’re Given productions.

▪ Elder Written by: Monet Thibou Director’s OfficeButch – Rm Carr 8 VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENTS Yolanda Spence/Email: incarn@mtpisgahny.org Choreographed by: Kasiem Aboti Walters The Giftby: You’re Given ▪Chapel Michele Hawkins-Jones Directed James S. Washington of Meditation - Rm 7 Please INCARN contact: Ministry willVIDEO be meeting weekly to tape the Director’s Office –Cagle Rm 8 ▪ Kenya ANNOUNCEMENTS Choreographed by: Kasiem Aboti Walters Performance Dates: ▪ Elder Butch Carr Written by: Monet Thibou announcements for Sunday’s incarn@mtpisgahny.org Service Yolanda Spence/Email: ▪ Michele Hawkins-Jones Jamel Gaines ST at 7 p.m.

INCARN Ministry will be meeting weekly to tape the Thursday,by: December Directed Jamesnd21 S. Washington ▪ Kenya James Cagle S. Washington Performance Dates: WRITERS WORKSHOP announcements for Sunday’s Service Friday, December 22 Kasiem at 11 a.m.

Jamel Office Gaines – Rm 8 VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENTS Choreographed by: Aboti Walters ▪Director’s ST at 7 p.m.

Thursday, December 21 nd MAAFA is coming soon! The writers will be meeting to discuss the Friday, December 22nd at 7 p.m.

▪ Michele Hawkins-Jones James S. Washington Audio▪ Department WRITERS WORKSHOP Friday, December 22 at 11 a.m.

INCARN Ministry and will they be meeting weekly to tapestories the you want to production are requesting MAAFA ▪ Brothers Kenya Cagle ▪ Kim nd at 7 p.m.

Performance Dates: MAAFA is coming soon!

The writers will be meeting to discuss the Friday, December 22 announcements for Sunday’s Service Audio▪ Department Christopher share. Please submit your writings to Kenya Cagle.

Emancipated Glory!

▪ JamelJordan Gaines Thursday, December 21ST at 7 p.m. production and they are requesting MAAFA stories you want to ▪ Kim ▪ Brothers James S. Washington Written by: Kenya Cagle nd The writing team meets Wednesdays in the INCARN Ministry ▪ Team Christopher Jordan share. Please submit your writings to Kenya Cagle.

WRITERS WORKSHOP Emancipated Glory!

Friday, December 22 at 11 a.m.

Makeup Directed by: Michele Hawkins-Jones Office, 3rdThe Floor - Room 6meeting p.m. Co-Facilitators: •Audio Jeanette Waters MAAFADirector’s is coming soon!meets writers will8 at be to discuss the Friday, December 22nd at 7 p.m.

Department Written by: Kenya Cagle The writing team Wednesdays in the INCARN Ministry Choreographed by: Jamel Gaines Makeup Kenya Cagle and Michele Hawkins-Jones ▪ Team Sharon Drummond production and they are3rdrequesting MAAFA you want to ▪ Kim Brothers Directed by: Michele Hawkins-Jones Director’s Office, Floor - Room 8 at 6 stories p.m. Co-Facilitators: JeanetteDoyle Waters ▪• Elnorse ▪ Christopher share. Please submit your writings to Kenya Cagle.

Choreographed by: Jamel Gaines Emancipated Glory!

Kenya Cagle and Michele Hawkins-Jones Performance Dates: Sharon Drummond Jordan ▪ Brenda Baldwin ▪ Elnorse Doyle Saturday, December 30th at 2 p.m.

The Writing Team Written by: Kenya Cagle The writing team meets Wednesdays in the INCARN Ministry Performance Dates: th Team ▪Makeup Brenda Baldwin Saturday, December 30Hawkins-Jones at 6 p.m. rd th Directed by: Michele Director’sAnita Office, 3 Floor Room 8 at 6 p.m.

Co-Facilitators: Alexander Leslie Ambrose atst2atp.m.

Saturday, December 30 31 • Jeanette Waters The Writing Team and Sunday, December 10 p.m. th Choreographed by:30 Jamel Christopher JordanHawkins-JonesMichele Houston Kenya Cagle and Michele Saturday, December at 6 Gaines p.m.

▪ Sharon Drummond Anita George Alexander Leslie Ambrose st Elder Grant Pamela Blount and Pricing Sunday, information December 31available at 10 p.m.

▪ Elnorse Doyle online at: www.mountpisgahny.com Christopher Jordan Michele Houston Debbie Bingham-Guinn Rita McCormick Performance Dates: ▪ Brenda Baldwin Elder George Grant Pamela Heath-Credle Blount th Latonya Baskerville Victoria PricingDecember information online at: www.mountpisgahny.com Saturday, 30available at 2 p.m.

The Writing TeamRita McCormick Debbie Bingham-Guinn Saturday, December 30th at 6 p.m.

The GiftLeslie Team Latonya Baskerville Victoria Heath-Credle THE NOBLE TOUCH Anita Alexander Ambrose st WHAT’S NEW THIS WEEK?

James S. Washington – Director

Demetria Ford - Stage Manager

Christopher Jordan Houston The GiftMichele Team Lynn Braxton – Acting Coach Kasiem Waters – Choreographer Elder George Grant Pamela Blount James Washington Production – Director Assistant Demetria Ford - Stage Manager MauriceS.MontgomeryBraxton – Acting Coach Waters – Choreographer DebbieLynn Bingham-Guinn RitaKasiem McCormick Montgomery- Production Assistant Choreographers LatonyaMaurice Baskerville Victoria Heath-Credle Jamel Gaines

Kasiem Aboti Walters Choreographers The Gift Team Stage Managers Jamel Gaines Kasiem Aboti Walters James S. Washington – Director Demetria Ford - Stage Manager Demetrya FordCoach Monte Thibou Lynn Braxton – Acting Kasiem Waters – Choreographer Stage Managers Jordan Allison Dick Maurice Christopher MontgomeryDemetrya FordProduction Assistant Monte Thibou Christopher Jordan Allison Dick

Jamel Gaines

and Sunday, December 31direction at 10 ofp.m.

Under the Elder Jeffery Noble NOBLE TOUCH “Suffering isTHE an OPTION. Health is a CHOICE.” Under the direction of Jeffery Pricing information available Elder online at: Noble www.mountpisgahny.com “Suffering is an OPTION. Health is a CHOICE.”

THE NOBLE TOUCH

Under the direction of Elder Jeffery Noble “Just Health as there a prayer “Suffering is an OPTION. is is a CHOICE.”

room for cast and crew during “Just as there is a prayer presentations, we will meet the room for cast and crew during 1st Tuesday of every month to presentations, we will meet the pray together during our 1st Tuesday of every month to regularly scheduled team pray together during our meetings. regularly “Justscheduled as there team is a prayer meetings. room fornocast andmake crew during All prep and prayer us industry and not ministry.” presentations, we will meet the All prep and no prayer make st 1 Tuesday of every month to us industry and not ministry.”

Choreographers REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Kasiem Aboti Walters

REHEARSAL Emancipation Glory! 3rdSCHEDULE Floor – Room 2 Tuesday’s: 6:30 p.m. Managers – 8:30 p.m.

Stage rd Floor – Room 2 Glory!

6:30 p.m.

– 8:303 p.m.

DemetryaThursday’s: FordEmancipation Monte Thibou Tuesday’s: 6:30p.m. p.m.– –8:30 8:30p.m. p.m.

Friday’s: 6:30 Christopher Jordan Allison Dick Thursday’s: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

The Gift 3rd Floor – Room 3 Friday’s: 6:30You’re p.m. –Given 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday’s: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood The Gift You’re 3rdp.m.

Floor – Room 3 Thursday’s: 6:00 p.m.Given to 8:00 Executive Pastor/Spiritual Engineer Tuesday’s: 6:00 p.m. pray together during our Saturday’s: 6:00 p.m. p.m. to to 8:00 8:00 p.m.

Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood Emancipation Glory!

3rd Floor Thursday’s: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.– Room 2 regularly scheduled team Executive Pastor/Spiritual Engineer Saturday’s: 6:00–p.m. top.m.

8:00 p.m.Baptist Church, The INCARN Ministry, 760 Dekalb Ave. 3rd Fl., Brooklyn, NY 11216 Tuesday’s: 6:30 p.m.

8:30 Mt. Pisgah meetings.

Phone: Thursday’s: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (718) 388-3900, Website: www.mountpisgahny.com, Email: incarn@mtpisgahny.org Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, The INCARN Ministry, 760 Dekalb Ave. 3rd Fl., Brooklyn, NY 11216 Friday’s: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Phone: (718) 388-3900, Website: www.mountpisgahny.com, Email: incarn@mtpisgahny.org All prep and no prayer make

The Gift You’re Given 3rd Floor – Room 3 Tuesday’s: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Thursday’s: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday’s: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

us industry and not ministry.”

Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood Executive Pastor/Spiritual Engineer

Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, The INCARN Ministry, 760 Dekalb Ave. 3rd Fl., Brooklyn, NY 11216

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

ON MENTAL MENTAL HEALTH, HEALTH, ON SPIRITUALITY AND AND THE THE FUTURE: FUTURE: SPIRITUALITY ™ POSITIVE MUSIC MATTERS! ™ POSITIVE MUSIC MATTERS!

TT

here is an urgent need to recognize the crisis in culhereand is anspirituality urgent need to recognize the crisis inespeculture in our society today.

This is ture and spirituality in our society today.

This is especially true regarding the state of Black Music in cially the isstate of “music” Black Music in America.

So true muchregarding of that which called is basicalAmerica.

So much of that which is called “music” is basically non-musical. Hip Hop, an original American art form, ly non-musical.

Hip Hop,and an original American art form, has been so marginalized obscured, almost completely has been so marginalized and obscured, almost completely taken over by commercial interests and market forces. Big taken over by commercial interests and market forces. Big Business is now in control of the creative process.

Business is now in control of the creative process.

Through either ignorance, fear, or for sale, the African Through eitherhave ignorance, fear, orall for but sale,surrendered the African American people unwittingly, American people have unwittingly, all but surrendered their God-given cultural sovereignty—our collective soul—to theirvery God-given cultural sovereignty—our collective the few who sit atop the entertainment andsoul—to media the very few who sit atop the entertainment and media industries: the record companies, radio stations, television industries: the and record companies, radio stations,Enemies television stations, print, social media conglomerates. of stations, print, and social media conglomerates.

Enemies of progress dictate and control the narrative of what becomes progress dictate and control the narrative of what becomes fashionable, trendy and popular.

Packaging and selling fashionable, trendy and popular.

Packaging and false liberty; masquerading as freedom; taking selling unfair false liberty; masquerading as freedom; taking unfair advantage of the young, the poor, and the unlearned has advantagea of the young, dollar the poor, and theThe unlearned become multi-billion industry. results has are become a devastating. multi-billionAn dollar industry.

The immune results are absolutely entire generation, to absolutely devastating.

An entire immune to insult, is plunging headlong towardgeneration, a sad, uncertain future insult, is plunging headlong a sad, uncertain future in abject bondage to fashiontoward and debt! in abject bondage to fashion and debt!

The Answer The Answer What could better illustrate this diabolical trend and What could better trend and ominous decline thanillustrate the rapidthis risediabolical of female rapper and ominous decline than the rapid rise of female rapper and ex-stripper, Cardi B, to the #1 position on the national ex-stripper, Cardi B, to the #1 position on the national

40 The The Positive Positive Community Community November 10 10 November 2017 2017 40 The Positive Community November 2017 10

Billboard music charts in November? The hit record is nothBillboard charts in November? entertainment The hit record is nothing shortmusic of adult (pornographic) featuring ing short of adult (pornographic) entertainment featuring all manner of vulgar, obscene, and suggestive language. The all manner ofand vulgar, language.

The14, entertainer her obscene, lyrics areand verysuggestive well known amongst entertainer and her lyrics are very well known amongst 14, 15, and 16 year-old children!

15, and 16 year-old children!

Does a “music” soundtrack that celebrates violence, Does lust, a “music” soundtrackfear, thatand celebrates violence, greed, envy, slothfulness, even death present greed, lust, envy, slothfulness, fear, and even death present behavioral health and quality-of- life issues for our communibehavioral and quality-ofissues forattention our communities today?health How does all of this life escape the of comties today?

How does all of this escape the attention of community leaders, the wisdom of elders, or the traditional gatemunity the wisdom ofand elders, or thestandard-bearers— traditional gatekeeperleaders, institutions—moral ethical keeper institutions—moral and faith ethical standard-bearers— the home, the schools and our institutions? the How home,can thewe schools and our faith institutions? simply allow the image of our young people can we simply the image of as ourmorally young degenerpeople toHow be paraded beforeallow the entire world to be paraded before the entire world as morally degenerate, culturally backward, cowardly, crime-ridden delinate, culturally backward, cowardly,becrime-ridden delinquents?

What should our response to those who are curquents?

What should our response be to those who are currently waging this cruel, relentless, and unholy war—culturrently waging this cruel, and unholy war—cultural genocide—upon the relentless, very souls of our children, our future; alHow genocide—upon the very souls of our children, future; do we arrest this wicked, enslaving trend?ourWhat can How do we arrest this wicked, enslaving trend?

What canof we do now to insure the survival and safe-passage we do from now this to insure the to survival andThe safe-passage of values generation the next? answer: Positive values from this generation to the next?

The answer: Positive Music Matters!

Music Matters!

The Questions The The Questions Positive Community will introduce a series of roundtable The Positive Community willFuture introduce a series conversations about The of Black Music of in roundtable America. The conversations about The Future of Black Music in panels will feature knowledgeable and wise America. thoughtThe leadpanels willvery feature knowledgeable and Now wise more thought leaders—our best and brightest minds. than ever, ers—our and brightest minds. the Nowfundamentals, more than ever, it is timevery to best consider the essentials, the itabsolutes: is time to consider the essentials, the fundamentals, the absolutes: 3 Should a conversation about the future—the destiny of 3theShould a American conversation aboutinthe destiny of African people thisfuture—the land—include a wholethe African American people in this land—include a wholesome discussion about our music? some ouryears music?

3 It’sdiscussion been just about over 150 since the Great Emancipation of 31863.

It’s been just over 150 years sinceand thedaughters Great Emancipation of Are we, as liberated sons of the Most 1863.

Are we, as liberated sons and daughters of the Most High God, aware of the tremendous blessings—the enorHigh aware of of theblack tremendous blessings—the mousGod, contributions musicians, singers, andenorother mous contributions of black musicians, singers, other performing and creative artists to American andand world popperforming and creative artists to American and world popular culture? ular culture?

3 What is music; what does a musician do?

33What a musician do?

Whatisismusic; a song;what whatdoes does a singer do?

33What is a song; what does a singer do?

What is art; what does an artist do?

3 What is art; what does an artist do? www.thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

From the 2016 Positive Music Matters calendar. Photo: Bob Gore From the 2016 Positive Music Matters calendar. Photo: Bob Gore

From the 2016 Positive Music Matters calendar. Photo: Bob Gore

3 Are the children aware of the great sacrifices made on 3 Does the future of our collective health, prosperity, and happiness upon thecollective quality of our music; the qualtheir behalf our forefathers community 33Does Doesdepend the thefuture future ofofour our collective health, health, prosperity, prosperity, and and 33Are Areby the the children children aware awareto ofoffoster the thegreat great sacrifices sacrificespride, made madeon on ity of our thinking? intelligent patriotism, and world progress? happinessdepend dependupon uponthe thequality qualityofofour ourmusic; music;the thequalqualtheir theirbehalf behalfby byour ourforefathers forefatherstotofoster fostercommunity communitypride, pride, happiness we, asour a thinking? people, are to move forward, it will be through 3 Have we established any and means through which our very 3 Ifity ity ofofour thinking? intelligent intelligent patriotism, patriotism, andworld world progress? progress? our33 own shared wisdom and comprehensive understanding best music andwe art is preserved, protected, andwhich promoted IfIfwe, we, asasaapeople, people, are are totomove moveforward, forward,ititwill willbe bethrough through 33Have Have we established established any anymeans meansthrough through which our ourvery very of our past/present events—our We must now decide ourown ownshared shared wisdom wisdomand andhistory. comprehensive comprehensive understanding understanding for thebest edification of art future generations? best music musicand and artisispreserved, preserved, protected, protected,and andpromoted promoted past/present past/presentevents—our events—our history. history.We Wemust must now now decide forofof ourselves—on our own terms—which values todecide carry for for the edification edification ofoffuture futureis generations? generations?

3 What isthe cultural literacy; what music literacy? for for ourselves—on ourselves—on our our own own terms—which values totoWhat carry carry 33What What isiscultural culturalbetween literacy; literacy;what whatisismusic music literacy? literacy? Can forward and those things thatterms—which must be leftvalues behind.

3 Is there a connection music and spiritually; forward forward and and those those things things that that must must be be left left behind. behind.

What What 3 3 Is Is there there a a connection connection between between music music and and spiritually; spiritually; Can Can are those values? music reflect divine attributes, spiritual ideals, and eternal are arethose those values? values?harmony of social discipline, melody of music reflectdivine divine attributes, attributes,spiritual spiritualideals, ideals,and andeternal eternal 3 Are the inspired values:music truth, reflect beauty, and goodness?

3 3 Are Are the the inspired inspiredharmony harmony social socialdiscipline, discipline, melody melody ofof values: values: truth, truth, beauty, beauty, and and goodness? goodness? and theofof rhythms of teamwork and 3 In the Civil Rights era, there were the hymns, the soul moral responsibility, moral moral responsibility, responsibility, and and the the rhythms rhythms of of teamwork teamwork and and 3 3 In In the the Civil Civil Rights Rights era, era, there there were were the the hymns, hymns, the the soul soul singers and the songs of freedom. Today, is it necessary or progress within our grasp? progress progress within within our ourgrasp? grasp? matter? . . . 3Whose side are singers singersand and the songs freedom.

Today, Today, isisor ititnecessary necessary 3 Does Positive Music REALLY even profitable forthe thesongs artistofof tofreedom. devote his music songs to oror DoesPositive PositiveMusic MusicREALLY REALLYmatter? matter?. .. .. .3Whose 3Whoseside sideare are even evenprofitable profitablefor forthe theartist artisttotodevote devotehis hismusic musicor orsongs songstoto 33Does positive themes, a righteous sound? Morally, should the cre- you on? youon? on? positive positivethemes, themes,aarighteous righteoussound? sound?Morally, Morally,should shouldthe thecrecre- you Stay tuned . . . ative artist commit his or her art and talents toward the Stay Staytuned tuned. .. .. . ative ativeartist artistcommit commithis hisor orher herart artand andtalents talentstoward towardthe the advancement of the people?

I believe the children advancement advancementofofthe thepeople? people?

I Ibelieve believe the the children childrenare are areour our ourfuture; future; future; 3 What is the ideal role of the artist, particularly as it relates Teach them well and the way.

33What Whatisisthe theideal idealrole roleofofthe theartist, artist,particularly particularlyasasititrelates relates Teach Teach them them well well and andlet letletthem them themlead lead leadthe theway. way. to the to community that nurtured his or her natural talents Show them all the beauty they possess inside. tothe thecommunity community that thatnurtured nurtured his his or orher hernatural natural talents talents Show Showthem themall allthe thebeauty beautythey theypossess possessinside. inside. and gifts?

Does the artistartist as spokesman on on the Give them aasense ititeasier; easier; and and gifts? gifts? Does Doespopular the the popular popular artist asas spokesman spokesman on the the Give Give them them asense senseofofofpride, pride, pride,to totomake make makeit easier; world stage obligation to histoto community of origin? world worldhave stage stageany have have any anyobligation obligation his hiscommunity community ofoforigin? origin?

Let the children's laughter Let Letthe thechildren's children'slaughter laughter 3 What the future of Hip WhatWhat music willwill our 33about What Whatabout about the thefuture future ofofHop? Hip HipHop? Hop? What music music willour our Remind ususushow Remind Remind how howwe we weuse use useto totobebe. .. .. . young young people listen listen to 10-20 yearsyears fromfrom now?now? youngpeople people listen toto10-20 10-20 years from now?

The Greatest The The Greatest GreatestLove Love Loveof ofofAll All Song Song recorded recordedbybybyWhitney Whitney WhitneyHouston Houston Houston Song recorded

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November November2017 2017The ThePositive PositiveCommunity Community11 11 November 2017 The Positive Community

November 2017 The Positive Community

11 11

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.

The Mental Health Battle It’s Time to Put Our Hearts, Minds, and Prayers into Addressing Another National Epidemic

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ental health; those two words seem to make some folks head for the hills. The issue of mental health is not a welcome discussion within the confines of polite society. There is a stigma attached to those who are affected and afflicted by mental health issues, seemingly more than any other illness.

From where I sit, folks would rather say they’ve been to jail than concede that they or someone they know has had to step out of the public domain to seek much-needed help for an unsteadiness in the mind.

There is a cliché often used within the black church community these days. I believe it goes: “I’m glad I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” Sounds good, sounds hip, but the bottom line is, when all hell breaks loose — whether you wear the pain on your sleeve, or in your heart — there’s a troubled spirit that needs to be comforted. I’m reminded of newscasts from years ago when local community members seemingly lined up for the cameras to say, “He seemed like such a nice boy” and “I would never have thought she would do something like this,” after tragic violence that was seemingly much less frequent in days past.

I founded a mental health issues panel last year because we need to talk; the angst and/or anxiety must be purged.

Literary icon extraordinaire James Baldwin often said, “Nothing is changed until it is faced.” That was true then and it’s true now.

Our panel believes in the power of prayer. I am the panel’s only minister, but I’m surrounded by some sho’ nuff prayer warriors. We believe that, in addition to prayer, anointing with oil, and laying hands on the sick, there might be some extensive peeling away of issues that prohibit people from becoming whole. We also don’t believe there should be any shame, embarrassment, or judgment in addressing these issues.

At our gatherings, we just talk, we don’t diagnose. Most of us are not equipped to do that, but our psychiatrist, Dr. Geraldine Taylor-Reid, has the goods to do just that. Other panelists include: Ms. Shelia Graham Woodson, a Passaic

12 The The Positive Positive Community Community

November November2017 2017

educator; Ms. Alberta Susan Wells, a retired educator; Mr. Eric White, a Newark educator; and my son, Bert, a retired sheriff’s officer and psychology major pursuing a Master’s in Psychology.

The holidays are right upon us and this can be a trying time for many, myself included. Truth be told, every Thanksgiving I think of my parents, who always hosted that holiday dinner, and there’s an ache that cannot be filled by their absence. But, as many others do, I press on.

Let’s stop running away from this subject, shall we? Let’s find ways to help those who are troubled, perhaps even lost (no not spiritually). Salvation doesn’t guarantee that we automatically become emotionally fit. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, or embarrassed about. It’s time to take off the masks and admit, if only to ourselves, that we hurt and we want to get well. Perhaps, access to mental health services and the understanding that seeking treatment is perfectly normal would promote better mental health. It would also allow us to experience and mourn fewer tragedies attributed to this type of illness.

thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

“Winter in Essex County offers many special ways for people of all ages to celebrate the season. Come out and join us at the Zoo, the Castle and the Environmental Center.”

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex County Executive And the Board of Chosen Freeholders Invite you to these special winter events

2017 Essex County Holiday Lights Spectacular FREE ADMISSION!!

December 1, 2, 3; December 8 to January 1 Closed December 24th & 25th 5 to 9 PM Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange 973-731-5800 ~ www.essexcountynj.org Carousel Rides are $2 Sponsored by PSE&G, Covanta Energy, The Essex County Parks Foundation and The Zoological Society of New Jersey Donations of non-perishable food; new, unwrapped toys; and new & gently used winter coats for the needy are appreciated.

Holiday at Kip’s Castle

Wednesdays to Sundays from December 2 to 30 12 Noon to 4pm (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays & Dec. 24) Visit Kip’s Castle for a self-guided tour of the first floor and experience the holidays circa 1920s.

Holiday Candlelight Tours at Kip’s Castle

Dec. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28 & 30 7pm Take a one-hour, guided twilight tour when the holiday décor shines. $8 admission.

Space is limited.

Historic Holiday House Tour

December 2 & 3 ~ Times Vary Decorated for the holidays, historic homes throughout Essex County will open their doors for one spectacular weekend.

Sustainable Homes & Habitat Gingerbread Contest

at the Essex County Environmental Center Register by Dec. 2; Drop off by Dec. 4; On Exhibit Dec. 6-15; Mon. to Fri., 9am to 5pm; Sat. 10am to 2pm Create a unique gingerbread house with natural accents and green building design features.

M Money

buiness, finance + work L–R: Darrell K. Terry, president and CEO, Newark Beth Israel Hospital; Dee C. Marshall; Reggie Davis; Wade Woodson

MONEY, POWER, RESPECT

Leon Ellis

at Prudential Center

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L–R: Gale Britton and Dorinda Walker, Prudential; U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr.; Dee C. Marshall, founder Money Power Respect; and Marilyn Davis, director of Government Affairs for Altice USA.

ver 200 men who know the value of investing in one another converged upon the Prudential Tower in Newark, engaging in real talk and exchanging valuable information. That’s what took place on October 16, 2017 at the MONEY, POWER, & RESPECT men’s forum produced by Game Changer, Power Player, Fire Starter, Mover & Shaker Dee C. Marshall.

Attendees left having gained access to new information, business opportunities, new clients or investors, and ready for whatever challenges might lie ahead.

By Glenda Cadogan

L-R: Steve Hockaday, Esq., Hockaday Law; Steve Cooper, Alterra Home Loans; Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.; Carl L. Marshall, J.M.C. Municipal Court Judge; Alfred Edmond Jr., SVP, editor-at-large, Black Enterprise; Dee C. Marshall, founder, Money Power Respect; Ernest Lyles, principal, The HIGRO Group; Kenyatta Stewart, Esq. Corporation Counsel, City of Newark; Kwaku Amuti, life coach, The PRVRB Group; and George R. Barnes, financial advisor, Prudential thepositivecommunity.com The Positive Community November 2017

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Summer 2017 The Positive Community 17 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Karen Waters

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Phil Murphy and Brenda Blackmon

L–R: Governor-Elect Phil Murphy (center) with Ron Lucas and A. Curtis Farrow, Irving Street Rep

Meet and Greet for NJ Governor-Elect Phil Murphy

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n Saturday, October 28th, A. Curtis Farrow hosted a meet and greet fundraiser at his home in Paterson, New Jersey. Guests included Grammy award winning legend Dionne Warwick; News Anchor Brenda Blackmon; the Mayor of Paterson, Jane E. Williams-Warren; Operations Manager of WBLS & WLIB Skip Dillard; Chairman Emeritus for RMHC Global and McDonald's Owner/Operator Linda Dunham; McDonald’s Owner/Operator Nellie Thomas; along with our very own Adrian Council, Sr. of The Positive Community.

Mr. Farrow noted, “The entire black community helped push Phil Murphy to victory. We must continue to support him in an effort to make New Jersey the best it can be. This is another example of what can happen when we activate and exercise our right to vote.”

— TPC Staff

L–R: Phil Murphy, Dionne Warwick, and A. Curtis Farrow Photos: Don Sherrill

Skip Dillard and Gloria Lee, WBLS/WLIB

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The Positive Community November 2017

L–R: Derrick Green, senior campaign advisor for Phil Murphy; NJ State Assemblywomen Shavonda E. Sumter; McDonald’s owner/ operators Nellie Thomas and Linda Dunham www.thepositivecommunity.com

REV. DR. CHARLES BUTLER WEALTH BUILDING

Are Many Chistians in Need of an Attitude Adjustment?

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

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n the gospel of Matthew 23:12, we find our Lord Jesus sharply criticizing the religiosity of the scribes and the Pharisees.

These leaders did not appear to be sincere in service to God but were more concerned with being seen to receive glowing accolades from men. Jesus blasted their behavior, citing how they loved to make grand entrances when coming into the temple, desired the best seats at a banquet, and intentionally enlarged the borders of their robes to indicate their level of holiness.

These religious leaders were zealous in upholding the Law of Moses, where the people were concerned. However, they were not practicing the same law. They felt secure in their relationship with God, which justified their behavior. Jesus saw this contradiction and called them on it. He pointed out how their pious and arrogant attitudes were hindering the people from serving God. Unfortunately, this same religious, holier-than-thou attitude exists in many churches today. We must take great care in how we treat each other in the church. We are to accept each other in love, no one here is perfect. We do not want to be guilty of running people out of the church. Everyone has the same right to be here. This is, after all, God’s house.

The attitude inside the church desperately needs to change.

We in the church sometimes behave in a manner far more vicious than the people we encounter in the world. We are often more spiteful, more ill-spirited and mean-tempered in the church than those who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. This behavior serves as an awful indictment against the church of God. This is neither the attitude nor behavior the people of God should be exhibiting.

As believers in Christ, there is to be a different attitude and nature within us. 2nd Corinthians 5:17 states, “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away, all things are become new.” If there is no difference in our behavior and those who are still in the world, if our behavior is just as deplorable now as it was before we accepted Jesus, then why would anyone want to accept Jesus as their Savior?

We must be careful not to allow our religious perspective to become distorted into believing any responsibility that has been entrusted to us in the church entitles us to think more highly of ourselves than others. God is no respecter of persons, we are all sinners saved by grace. We all need Jesus.

God’s kingdom uses a different logic model for measuring success and greatness. God does not focus on family lineage, academic achievements, or the accumulation of financial or material wealth. You can be spiritually rich even if you don’t have a penny in your pocket. You can also be financially well off but spiritually destitute. Look at the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 17:19-31). In the end the rich man ended up being tormented in hell, while Lazarus was comforted in the arms of Abraham.

In the kingdom of God, the greatest will be the least. We are to remain humble in our service to the Lord. We are to be witnesses for Christ. Our life is to be an example, a testimony of the goodness and grace of God. Go tell the world about the goodness of God. Do not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16). You want to hear the confirmation from God; “Well done,

thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

well done my good and faithful servant.” In Matthew 14:15-18, we find a familiar passage of scripture that demonstrates the essentials of spiritual wealth building. Jesus has departed to a desolate place. The people from various towns and villages followed Him. Jesus moved with compassion, taught them about the kingdom of God, and healed the sick among them. Compassion denotes a message of feeling compelled to do whatever is necessary, whatever you can do, to go the extra mile not just for a friend, but also for the stranger who is in need. Jesus demonstrates His compassion throughout the gospels time after time.

As believers in Christ, we are commanded to demonstrate this same spirit of compassion to each other. Jesus states in John 15:12-14, “A new commandment I give you that you love one another as I have loved you, greater love has no man than this that you lay down your life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what things I have commanded you to do.”

The people stayed with Jesus all day. The disciples suggested that Jesus send them away so they can find food and lodging. The disciples were saying; these people are not our responsibility. We are not our brothers’ keepers. We cannot afford to undertake the financial burden associated with taking care of them. Many of us are like these disciples wanting to send the people away.

However, there was a young boy in the crowd who had five small loaves of bread and two fish. It is worth noting that he could have just sat down and eaten his lunch in peace, after all it was his lunch. But he was willing to share all that he had with the Lord.

Are you willing to share what God has blessed you with to benefit His kingdom? When the disciples informed Jesus that they had the five loaves and the two fish, He instructed them to bring them to Him and to have the people sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and the two fish and looking to heaven, He blessed it and fed the multitude. The scripture reports the disciples collected 12 baskets after everyone had eaten their fill.

What does this message teach us about spiritual wealth building? We need to have faith and confidence in Jesus. We find in the scriptures on more than one occasion that Jesus refers to His disciples as ye of little faith. Many of us still lack confidence in Jesus’ ability. We are still trying to operate in our power, rather than trusting God and accessing the vast resources He has made available to us. Haggai 2:8 said, “All the silver belongs to Him, and all the gold belongs to Him.” Psalms 50:10 states, “The cattle on a thousand hills belong to Him.” We have a heavenly Father who is rich and He cares about our needs. But we continue to fail to call on Him, although we will pray “give us today our daily bread.” Jesus is our daily bread.

He is the bread of life.

Don’t be afraid to be bold; God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Stop tying God’s hands; we are holding Him back from pouring out a blessing on us that the windows of heaven cannot contain.

Look at every situation and realize the opportunity, the potential, and the possibilities. All things are possible with God, when we keep our hands in God’s hand, and our eyes firmly fixed on the cross.

November 2017 November 2017 The ThePositive Positive Community Community 17 17

Susan Ifill, CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City (NHSNYC); Ed Thomas, head of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage for New York and Connecticut; Tamara Blackwood, homebuyer; Laurie O’Brien, director at NeighborWorks America

Potential Homebuyers get a Lift Wells Fargo Provides $8.3 Million in Grants

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L–R: Stephanie Ahenkora, Wells Fargo NE Corporate Communications and guest

ince February 2012, LIFT programs have helped create nearly 15,000 homeowners in 54 communities. Earlier this month, Wells Fargo & Company, NeighborWorks America, and its network member, Neighborhood Housing Services of New York, Inc., announced that the NeighborhoodLIFT program was coming to the New York City area with an $8.3 million commitment by Wells Fargo to boost homeownership in the boroughs of Brooklyn, Bronx, and Queens.

A free event was hosted on November 3 and 4 from 10am to 7pm, at the Brooklyn Expo Center, where interested homebuyers gathered for the opportunity to reserve a $20,000 down payment assistance grant.

To receive a grant, approved homebuyers have up to 60 days to finalize the contract to purchase a home and had to commit to live in the home for five years. Their annual incomes could not exceed 100 percent of the local area median income, which was about $95,400 in the New York City community for a single household up to a family of four; and up to $103,050 for a family of five. —TPC Staff Photos: Seitu Oronde

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The Positive Community November 2017

www.thepositivecommunity.com

10th Anniversary Celebration for President David E. Schroeder

Pillar College Event Marks Decade of Outstanding Leadership and Vision

President Schroeder and Mrs. Betzi Schroeder

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Kesha Lambert

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his fall marks the 10th year of Dr. David E. Schroeder’s service as president of Pillar College. On October 19, the college community celebrated Dr. Schroeder at a reception for friends and alumni of Pillar College. Dr. David Ireland, the lead pastor of Christ Church in northern New Jersey, served as guest speaker.

The institution, formerly a two-year Christian college, now offers several Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts programs at multiple campuses in New Jersey.

Mr. Timothy L. Schmidt, chair of the Board of Trustees of Pillar College, credited President Schroeder with leading Pillar College through a remarkable period of growth. “Dr. Schroeder recognized the opportunities for Pillar to reach underserved students. During his tenure, Pillar’s enrollment has increased by 425 percent and our graduation rate is at an all-time high. Those results speak volumes about his vision and leadership.”

Dr. Schroeder joined Pillar College when it was Somerset Christian College (SCC) in August 2007.

During his time as president, Pillar has changed and grown: SCC changed its name to Pillar College; Pillar’s headquarters moved to Newark; and satellite campuses in Somerset and Paterson opened. In 2014-15, Pillar received accreditation for additional bachelor’s degree programs and in March 2017, an M.A. in counseling program was added. The college now has accreditation from The New Jersey Commission on Higher Education, The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and The Association for Biblical Higher Education.

A graduate of Nyack College, Manhattanville College, New York Theological Seminary, and New York University, Dr. Schroeder began his ministry in 1969 with Christian Publications. He went on to pastor churches in New York, New Jersey, and New England. He served overseas and at home with the Christian and Missionary Alliance, Trans World Radio, and International Teams, and continues preaching and teaching ministries in Latin America, Asia, and Europe. As college president, he has continued his ministry in three New Jersey churches and especially enjoys teaching courses. Over the years, Dr. Schroeder has served on the boards of twenty not-forprofit ministries.

Dr. David Ireland, senior pastor Christ Church L–R: Dr. Joanne Noel with Amy Huber, Pillar College, VP of Student Engagement

L–R: Pillar College student Loudy Simeus, President Schroeder, Dr. David Ireland, Mrs. Betzi Schroeder, with Pillar College Students, Heather Dawn Hunter and Xavier Taylor November 2017 The Positive Community

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Education the art + science of learning

Women Entrepreneurship Week Conference at MSU MSU President Susan Cole

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ore than 400 people, mostly women, attended a daylong conference at Montclair State University as part of the fourth annual Women Entrepreneurship Week. Montclair State created Women Entrepreneurship Week, which has grown into a global celebration with events organized in 14 countries, 21 states in the U.S., and at 25 universities and nonprofits all over New Jersey.

The WEW conference on October 18, 2017 at Montclair State, which was free and open to the public, featured a panel "Entrepreneurship in the C-Suite" that included some of the top leaders in New Jersey.

L–R: Kimberly Weisul, editor-at-large of Inc. Magazine; Michele Siekerka, president of New Jersey Business & Industry Association; Michellene Davis, executive VP and chief Corporate Affairs officer of RWJBarnabas; Leecia Eve, VP of State Government Affairs (NY, NJ & CT Region) for Verizon; Judith Spires, chairman and CEO of Kings Food Markets

Photos: Raymond Hagans

Wells Fargo Team

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The Positive Community November 2017

L–R: President and CEO of MZM Construction Company, Inc. Marjorie Perry and Sarah E. Jones, director, Government Affairs at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ

Evelyn McGee Colbert, (Stephen Colbert’s wife) www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Learn from scholars and practitioners on topics such as: Problems of the City Politics & the Legal Process Policy Implementation (Public Administration) Labor Relations & the Labor Movement For more information about the Urban Studies Program visit: sps.cuny.edu/urbanpositive www.thepositivecommunity.com

November 2017 The Positive Community

21

A Conversation with Colonel Guion Bluford, Jr.

First African American In Space Honored

BY TONI NASH

R

Photo: NASA

arely do we get to meet a real-life hero. But, I had the honor of meeting a hero of mine, twice. I first interviewed Colonel Guion Stewart Bluford, Jr., the first African American to fly in space, many years ago on a TV program I hosted, here in Philadelphia. Because of his tight schedule, this time, we only had 15 minutes to talk. We met in the public meeting room at Philadelphia City Hall for our interview, and immediately recognized the same, sweet smile I had seen before.

Bluford returned home to Philadelphia on this occasion to receive several citations and awards in honor of his 75th birthday, which is November 22. The Mann Center for the Performing Arts presented a concert, “A Space Odyssey,” on July 25 featuring the renowned Philadelphia Orchestra and the Mann Center Festival Choir. Astronomer and Planetarium Director for the Franklin Institute Derrick Pitts narrated the evening's program, which featured the world premiere of Hold Fast to Dreams, the newly commissioned orchestral work

by Nolan Williams, Jr., which received a standing ovation.

President and CEO of the Mann Center Catherine M. Cahill and Williams, who is creative director, presented Col. Bluford with a trophy lauding his contributions to science and the country.

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The Positive Community November 2017

At City Hall, Mayor Jim Kenney presented Bluford with a citation celebrating his many, amazing accomplishments and commended him for reaching such great heights and inspiring generations of fellow Philadelphians. Accompanying Mayor Kenny were students from the Global Leadership Charter School of Philadelphia, who created an exhibit displayed in the Mayor's office.

Education

A native Philadelphian, Bluford was educated at Philadelphia's Hannah Elementary, now renamed in his honor. The son of a mechanical engineer and a special education teacher, Bluford made his academic success a primary goal. He attended Pennsylvania State University, where he joined the ROTC, graduating in 1964 with a degree in aerospace engineering. Bluford went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) in 1974; a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Aerospace Engineering with a minor in Laser Physics, again from AFIT, in 1978; and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Houston–Clear Lake in 1987. He also attended the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. www.thepositivecommunity.com

In the Air and Beyond

Col. Bluford's flight career began after he attended pilot training in the US Air Force. He was assigned to the 557th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam and flew 144 combat missions, 65 of which were over North Vietnam. He was awarded the Vietnam Cross for Gallantry.

In 1978 after 29 years in the Air Force and over 5,200 hours of jet flight time in 10 different models of aircraft, Bluford was selected in a highly competitive process to be among the first class of space shuttle astronauts. He made his historic journey into space in 1983 aboard space shuttle “Challenger,” eventually completing three additional space flights and logging over 688 hours in outer space.

GB: No, not at all. We were busy making sure we would

get into orbit; checking the instruments.

TN: When did you first become aware of space, space

engineering, space flight, etc.

GB: Not until high school when I heard about the

Tuskegee Airmen and started thinking about flying.

Some other points Colonel Bluford stressed during our interview: • He felt no physical discomfort on any of his space flights • You have to be the best you can be, that's all that can be asked of someone. You have to plan for success.

• Select a dream and stick to it. He dreamed of being an aerospace engineer and became one.

• He expressed concern about the quality of education today, and that we need to make sure we have high quality education available to all.

TN: Did any of your teachers inspire you?

GB: No! After graduating from Overbrook High, I knew

I wanted to be an aerospace engineer, so I chose

Pennsylvania State University.

TN: What were you thinking about during the

countdown? Was there a knot in your stomach?

TN: The staff on the ground heard a lot of laughing and

giggling during the takeoff that and they attributed

it to you. Is this true?

GB: Well yes. I probably shouldn’t have admitted it.

I really enjoyed it! It was an exciting ride all the

way up. I really enjoyed it!

TN: I read that you said that you would have enjoyed

being the second African-American in space, why?

GB: I would have had more fun. (I got the impression

that Col. Bluford would have preferred the mission

rather than himself receive more attention.)

Winding our conversation down, we spoke about his first solo flight and the joy it gave him. Facetiously, I suggested that he probably enjoyed amusement parks. Astronaut Bluford replied, “That’s not something I seek to do; I'm not a thrill seeker!” Our conversation was short but well worth it.

Happy birthday, Colonel Guion Bluford! You are a real American American hero.

Photos courtesy of Mann Center

www.thepositivecommunity.com

November 2017 The Positive Community

23

First Public School in Brownsville Awarded National Blue Ribbon by U.S. DOE

E

very year, the U.S. Department of Education gives about 300 schools --fewer than 1% of schools nationwide--the coveted National Blue Ribbon Award, and every year a handful go to New York City schools.

Uncommon Schools Leadership Prep Ocean Hill has consistently outperformed other public schools with more affluent student populations on New York state assessment exams.

This last year, the elementary school ranked in the top 2% in math and English language arts out of 2,500 But this year there was a first.

New York state elementary schools.

Compared with Scarsdale, NY, One of the awards went to a school where none of the students are conin Brownsville--the first time that a sidered economically disadvantaged, school in the neighborhood ever got Leadership Prep Ocean Hill outpera National Blue Ribbon Award. formed all five elementary schools in At this school, Uncommon math and all but one of the five ScarsSchools Leadership Prep Ocean Hill, dale schools in English language arts.

97% of the students are black or La“This award confirms that positive tino and over 80% of them qualify relationships paired with a love of for free or reduced price lunch. The learning can lead to strong academschool is in one of the lowest in- ic achievement for students,” Rachel come neighborhoods in the country. King, the elementary school’s prinAnd yet, last year, 99% of its third cipal said. “We are thrilled that our graders passed the rigorous New community of students, parents and York State math exams. That’s a staff members can celebrate this achigher percentage than in the afflu- complishment together.” ent Scarsdale, NY. Founded in 2010, Leadership “Leadership Prep, and the fami- Prep Ocean Hill is one of 23 public lies and students of Brownsville, charter schools operated by Uncomare showing us what many over- mon Schools in Brooklyn. Uncomlook, that our lowest income kids mon Schools operates a total of 52 in places with the least opportunity schools in three states: New York, have high aspirations for themselves New Jersey and Massachusetts. and limitless potential,” said Derrell Student achievement at LeaderBradford, executive director of NY- ship Prep Ocean Hill is driven by highCAN, an advocacy group focused on ly-skilled teachers who receive highthe success of all New York students. quality professional development and “New Yorkers of all stripes should be weekly coaching. The school day is proud and take note of what’s hap- also longer than most public schools, pening here.” giving children the time they need

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The Positive Community November 2017

to not only master basic skills but to explore joyous and rigorous curricula beyond basic math and English.

“Leadership Prep has everything that a parent would hope for in a school,” said Kemesha Evans, whose son Joshua Laureano attends the school. “Communication with teachers is very good. Teachers share their personal numbers with everyone. I can always call on his 3rd, 4th or 5th grade teachers. They are all open to listen and help in any way.”

With more than 54 percent of children growing up in households under the poverty line (more than double the NYC average), Brownsville is the poorest neighborhood in Brooklyn and a recent NY Daily News article labeled it Brooklyn’s worst neighborhood for children.

Uncommon Schools has opened two elementary schools and four middle schools in the neighborhood over the past eight years.

Of course, the school’s results fit into Uncommon Schools’ overall mission to ensure that students get into, succeed in and graduate from college. Eight in 10 Uncommon Schools alumni are on track to graduate from college within six years of high school graduation--one of the highest rates in the country--and higher than the 58% college graduation rate achieved by the nation’s most affluent students. Across the country, 12% of low income students ever graduate from college. www.thepositivecommunity.com

with a group of people who, from the top down, are working for the same mission and the same goal. Margaret Mead once said ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.’

AT UNCOMMON WE ARE CHANGING HISTORY, TOGETHER!”

Juliana Worrell Associate Managing Director Uncommon Schools Newark

JOIN OUR TEAM! UncommonSchools.org/careers

I am Uncommon.

“At Uncommon Schools we work

Health ideas for wellness

SEE! TEST! TREAT! Saving Lives A Bit At A Time Far right, L–R: Uche Chris Nwobu, MD and Dr. Damalia Campbell-Oparaji

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ccording to the most recent statistics available from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 41,211 women died from breast cancer and 4,115 from cervical cancer in 2014. Estimates for 2017 from The American Cancer Society are that there will be 12,820 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed, and approximately 4,210 women will die from the disease coupled with 252,710 diagnoses and 40,610 deaths from breast cancer.

In efforts to reduce these sobering numbers, a New Jersey doctor put together an impressive team of medical professionals, community partners, and volunteers to host an event called “SeeTest&Treat.”

Dr. Damalia Campbell-Oparaji is an assistant professor in the Division of Obstetrics & Gynecology in the Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School who, for her entire career, has worked in urban environments in New Jersey. Knowing her interest and background in community health and prevention work, Dr. Mark Einstein, chairman of the department, introduced the idea that she take the lead in hosting the program created and funded by the College of American Pathologists (The CAP Foundation).

“There is a lot of uncertainty in healthcare for women who, as we know, are generally the primary care seekers for themselves and their families,” said Dr. CampbellOparaji. “But with so many women uninsured and underinsured in our communities, it makes it difficult for them to seek preventative tests like pap smears and mammograms. This accounts in part for why we see so many disparities in terms of cancer diagnoses and mortality for women of color,” she added.

Hence the introduction of the first SeeTest&Treat Program at the center. What the program does is bring the

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The Positive Community November 2017

BY GLENDA CADOGAN power of diagnostic medicine to underserved communities of women by seeking them out to test for breast and cervical cancer and providing same day results. Subsequently, this is followed by a treatment plan.

The October edition of SeeTest&Treat was a partnership between Dr. Campbell's Department of OB/GYN and Women's Health, the CAP Foundation, The Department of Radiology, The Department of Pathology at New Jersey Medical Center, as well as University Hospital.

In finding the women to be seen, Dr. Campbell-Oparaji and her army of volunteers armed with informational flyers, flooded eateries, hair salons, barber shops, and other businesses, as well as an aggressive outreach to churches.

In all, 70 women were seen at the event; 54 of them received same day results.

During the three-hour wait time for results, a Health Education Fair with more than 30 community partners provided nutritional and peer counseling; eye screening; and workshops on stress management, immunization, domestic violence, smoking cessation, and financial planning among many others.

The event exceeded expectations and fueled Dr. Campbell-Oparaji’s enthusiasm to do more. “We planned on screening 50 women and we did 70,” she said. “That is nice. However there are 750,000 people in Essex County and three quarters of the population is uninsured or underinsured. If you do the math, reaching 70 women is just a drop in the bucket. So having a successful event is gratifying, but it is a small bit of the work that needs to be done if we are to make everyone have access to care. I am more committed than ever to make SeeTest&Treat an annual program event and in doing, help save women’s lives.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

TAKE CONTROL of Your Health.

A Test for Lung Cancer Could Save Your Life.

More people in the United States die from lung cancer than any other type of cancer.

The good news is, a lung screening can help detect cancer even before a person has symptoms. And when you find cancer early, treatment can be highly successful.

University Hospital is proud to offer Lung Cancer Screening.

Eligibility Requirements: • 55-77 years of age.

• Asymptomatic –no signs or symptoms of lung cancer.

• Currently a smoker or have quit smoking within the last 15 years.

• Tobacco-smoking history is: 1 pack a day for 30 years OR 2 packs a day for 15 years OR 3 packs a day for 10 years.

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Get screened for breast cancer.

Many women who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors.

In fact, African American women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with aggressive forms of breast cancer that are harder to treat.

That’s why it’s important to get screened for breast cancer if you’re 40 or older, regardless of your current health, family history, income, or insurance status.

The Communities Partnering in Navigation in New York City Program can help connect you with affordable cancer screening services and resources. To learn more, contact 844.90B.WELL and BeWell@nyumc.org, or visit nyulangone.org/cancerscreeningnavigation

This project was funded by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene through a contract with Public Health Solutions.

Photos by Regina Fleming Photography

BY KEISHA SUTTON-JAMES

Health Crisis Healed My Broken Heart

Keisha just celebrated being one year cancer-free! She is currently working on a documentary and biography about her grandfather, Percy Sutton.

L

ife’s crises cracked my heart open and then cancer came in to heal it. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2016 and spent the following month reading, absorbing, gathering information from survivors, and contemplating the Big C. The pink ribbons I saw on every website I shopped and in every magazine I opened were a comforting reminder that I was hardly alone. In the United States, a woman will receive a breast cancer diagnosis every two minutes: if I wait one hundred and twenty seconds, I will have sisters on the journey with me.

Trials and tribulations were not new in my life. Between my 35th and 43rd birthdays, I had a front row seat for the decline of my grandfather, Percy Sutton—part man, part superhero to me, the guy who could fix any problem, and made me feel secure in this big, scary world. Losing him left me feeling as though the earth had shifted beneath me. I watched him slowly disengage from a life he had lived with fervor, to become broken by illness and eventually transition.

When he departed my life I felt untethered, completely exposed to the wilds of the world. My heart cracked open and out poured tears. What would happen without his protection? thepositivecommunity.com November 2017 2017 The www.thepositivecommunity.com November The Positive Positive Community Community NA 29

Two Twoyears yearslater, later,asasa aresult resultofofthe theGreat GreatRecession Recessionwe we lost lostthe theradio radiostations stationsthat thathe—along he—alongwith withmy myfather— father— Two years later, as a resultInner of theCity Great Recession we had had built. built.

Our Our company, company, Inner CityBroadcasting Broadcasting lost the radio stations that he—along with my father— Corporation Corporation(ICBC), (ICBC),founded foundedthe theyear yearbefore before I Iwas was had built.

Our company, Inner City Broadcasting born bornand andour ourfirst firstradio radiostations, stations,WLIB WLIBand andWBLS, WBLS,were were Corporation (ICBC), foundedThese the were year before Iany was purchased purchasedininquick quicksuccession. succession.

These werenot notjust just any born and ourthey first radio stations, WLIB and WBLS, were radio radiostations: stations: theywere werethe theradio radiostations—the stations—the pride pride ofof purchased in quick succession. These were not just any New NewYork’s York’sblack black community. community. radio stations: they were thenot radio stations—the pride of ToToususSuttons, Suttons,ICBC ICBCwas was notjust just a afor-profit for-profitventure venture New York’s black community. meant meanttotodeliver delivershareholder shareholdervalue. value.ItItwas wasa avehicle vehicle To uswhich Suttons, was not just a for-profitpolitics venture through through whichwe weICBC addressed addressed our our community’s community’s politics meant to working deliver shareholder value.

Itthe was a vehicle and andissues, issues, workingto toimprove improvethe the lot lotofof the “forgotten “forgotten through which we addressed our community’s politics and anddiscarded” discarded”ofofsociety, society,asasheheoften oftensaid. said.Having Having that that and issues, working to improve the lot of the “forgotten control controlwrested wrestedfrom fromthe theblack blackpeople peoplewho whohad hadcreated created of society, astocorporations he often said.with Having that it and itand anddiscarded” seeing seeingit ithanded handed over overto corporations with no novestvestcontrol wrested from the black people who had created ededinterest interestininour ourcommunity communitywas wasa anightmare. nightmare. itThere and seeing itmore handed overtoto corporations vestThere was wasmore trouble trouble tocome. come.AAyear yearwith and andno a ahalf half ed interest in our community was a nightmare. later latermy myfather fathersuffered suffereda adevastating devastatingfall fallthat thatleft lefthim him There The was trouble to come.isis Athe year andofof athe half paralyzed. paralyzed.

Themore first firstyear yearofofparalysis paralysis the time time the later my father suffered a devastating fall that left him greatest greatestpossibility possibilityofofrecovery, recovery,sosoI Ithrust thrustmyself myselfonce once paralyzed.

The firstelder year ofcare paralysis is the time of to the again againinto intointensive intensive eldercare for fora ayear year asaswe wetried tried to greatest possibility of recovery, so I thrust myself once ensure ensurethat thathehehad hadthe thegreatest greatestchance chanceofofrecovery. recovery.My My again into intensive elder for aasIyear as many we tried to father fatherhad hadbeen been a asafety safety net netcare for forme, me,as think I think many parparensure that he had the greatest chance of recovery.

My ents entsare arefor fortheir theirchildren. children.And Andnow, now,I Iwas wasconfronted confronted father had been a safety net for me, as I think many parwith withhis his vulnerability. vulnerability.

This This strapping strapping six six foot foottwo, two,210210ents are for their children.

And now, I was confronted pound poundman mannow nowconfined confinedtotoa awheelchair, wheelchair,my mydad dadneedneedhis vulnerability.

This strapping six foot two, 210edwith edmy mysupport. support.

IfIfI had I hadsuspected suspected the theearth earth was wasunstable unstable pound man now confined to a wheelchair, my dad needbefore, before,now nowI was I wasliving livingthrough throughananearthquake. earthquake.I felt I feltasas ed my support.

If Icompletely had suspected the earth was though though I Ihad hadbeen been completely shredded shredded bybythe theunstable experiexperibefore, was living through earthquake.

Ioff felt as ences; ences;atatnow one oneIpoint, point, I Iwas was unable unablean totopull pullmyself myselfoff the the though I had been completely shredded by and the floor floorwhere where I Ihad had curled curled into intoa afetal fetalposition position andexpericried cried ences; attear oneducts point, I was unable pull myselfMisery off the until untilmy my tear ducts were were worn worn out. out.ItoIwas wasgutted. gutted.

Misery floor where I had curled into a fetal position and cried and andfear fearwere wereallallthat thatwas wasleft. left.I Ifeared fearedthe thefuture. future.I I until my tear ducts were worn out. I was gutted. Misery and fear were all that was left. I feared the future. I

30 30The ThePositive PositiveCommunity CommunityNovember November 2017 2017 30 The Positive Community November 2017 30 The Positive Community November 2017

feared fearednot notbeing beingable abletotorebuild rebuildmy mycareer, career,not notbeing being able abletototake takecare careofofmy mychildren childrenorormy mymother motherwhen whenher her feared not being able to rebuild my career, not being time timeofofneed need came; came; I Ifeared. feared. able to this take care of my or my mother whenbut her After After thisbarrage barrage ofofchildren heavy heavyblows blows came came cancer; cancer; but time of need came; I feared. cancer cancerwas wasa adifferent differenttype typeofoftrial. trial.Cancer Cancerwasn’t wasn’tsomesomeAfter this barrage of heavy me; blows cancer; but thing thing that that happened happened around around me;it itcame was washappening happening cancer was a different type of trial.

Cancer wasn’t someininme. me.This Thiswas wasnot notaffecting affectingmy mycircumstances, circumstances,changchangthing that happened me; it was happening ing ingmy myidentity, identity, causing causingaround me metotore-evaluate re-evaluate my my life; life;this this in me. This was not affecting my circumstances, changing my identity, causing me to re-evaluate my life; this

. . . .my myfather fathersuffered sufferedaadevastating devastatingfall fall . . . my father suffered a devastating fall that thatleft lefthim himparalyzed. paralyzed.The Thefirst firstyear yearofof that left him paralyzed. The first year of paralysis paralysisisisthe thetime timeofofthe thegreatest greatestpossipossiparalysis is the time of the greatest possibility bilityofofrecovery, recovery,so soI Ithrust thrustmyself myselfonce once bility of recovery, so I thrust myself once again againinto intointensive intensiveelder eldercare carefor foraayear year again into intensive elder care for a year as aswe wetried triedtotoensure ensurethat thathe hehad hadthe the as we tried to ensure that he had the greatest greatestchance chanceofofrecovery. recovery.My Myfather father greatest chance of recovery. My father had hadbeen beenaasafety safetynet netfor forme, me,as asI Ithink think had been a safety net for me, as I think many manyparents parentsare arefor fortheir theirchildren. children. many parents are for their children. thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

building, building,shattering shatteringthe thebones, bones,ripping rippingthe thenail nailclear clear After Afterthis thisbarrage barrageofofheavy heavyblows blows off off nail nailbed bed and andtearing tearing the thenail nail bed bedwide wide open open soclear soI I building, building, shattering shattering the thebones, bones, ripping ripping the the nail nailclear After Afterthis thisbarrage barrageofofheavy heavyblows blows could could see see the the gruesomeness gruesomeness inside. inside.

Through Through each each off off nail nail bed bed and and tearing tearingthe the nail nailbed bed wide wideopen open soof soIofI came camecancer; cancer;but butcancer cancerwas wasa a these these health health problems, problems, I kept I kept pushing pushing forward, forward, I would I would could could see seethe the gruesomeness gruesomeness inside. inside.Through Through each each ofof not notbehealth bederailed. derailed.

InInretrospect, retrospect, whereas whereas I thought I thought mymy came camecancer; cancer;but butcancer cancerwas wasa a these these health problems, problems, I kept I kept pushing pushing forward, forward, I would I would train train was making making aIn adetour, detour, ininfact, fact, it ithad gonecomcomnot notbewas bederailed. derailed.

In retrospect, retrospect, whereas whereas Ihad thought Igone thought my my different differenttype typeofoftrial. trial.Cancer Cancerwasn’t wasn’t pletely pletely off off the thetracks. tracks.

God Godin was was talking talking toto me; me;Icomjust Icomjust train train was was making making a a detour, detour, in fact, fact, it it had had gone gone different differenttype typeofoftrial. trial.Cancer Cancerwasn’t wasn’t didn’t didn’t hear hear Him. Him. HeHe was was telling telling me me toto slow down, down, be pletely pletely off offthe the tracks. tracks.

God God was wastalking talking toslow tome; me; I just I be just something somethingthat thathappened happenedaround aroundme; me; didn’t still, still, and and listen listen soso I could I could hear hear Him. Him. But Islow kept I kept going, going, didn’t hear hear Him. Him. He He was was telling telling me me toBut to slow down, down, bebe kept moving, moving, and and did did not not listen. listen. something somethingthat thathappened happenedaround aroundme; me; kept still, still, and and listen listen so so I could I could hear hear Him. Him. But But I kept I kept going, going, Because Because all all of of this this hardship hardship had had happened happened inin quick quick kept kept moving, moving, and and did did not not listen. listen. it itwas washappening happeningininme. me. succession, succession, when when I this received I hardship received the the diagnosis diagnosis I was I in was clear. clear.

Because Because all all of of this hardship had had happened happened in quick quick it threatening itwas washappening happening inlife. inme. me.

This was was not not the the time time toto slow slow down; down; it was it was the the time time forfor a a was was threatening that that very very life.

This This thing thing wanted wanted toto take take This

succession, succession,when whenI received I receivedthe thediagnosis diagnosisI was I wasclear. clear. full stop stop and and instead instead of “Why “Why me?” me?”

I was asked, “What “What are are over over each each ofof mymy cells cells and and eat eat me me alive, alive, from from the the inside, inside, This This was was not not the the time time toof to slow slow down; down; itI was itasked, the the time time for for a a was was threatening threatening that that very very life. life.

This This thing thing wanted wanted to to take take full you you trying trying to to tell tell me, me, God? God? Clearly, Clearly, you you don’t don’t bring bring a a no no less! less! full full stop stop and and instead instead of of “Why “Why me?” me?”

I asked, I asked, “What “What are are over over each each ofof mymy cells cells and and eateat meme alive, alive, from from the the inside, inside, person person this this low for for nono reason. reason.

SoSowhat what isdon’t isthe thereason? reason?

Most Most gloriously, gloriously, breast breast cancer cancer put put meme onon the the path path ofof you you trying trying tolow totell tell me, me, God? God? Clearly, Clearly, you you don’t bring bringa a nono less! less!

What What am am Ithis supposed Ilow supposed tono to learn?” learn?”

And when when began Ithe began with with spiritual spiritual awakening. awakening.

By By the the grace grace ofput of God, God, the the moment moment person this lowforforno reason. reason.

SoAnd Sowhat what is Iisthe reason? reason?

Most Most gloriously, gloriously, breast breast cancer cancer put me me on on the the path path ofIofI person listening aWhat listening I heard I heard so so much. much. received received the the diagnosis, diagnosis, Ithe shifted Ithe shifted into into a state a state of of gratitude. gratitude. amam I heart, supposed I heart, supposed toto learn?” learn?”

And And when when I began I began with with spiritual spiritual awakening. awakening.

ByBy grace grace of of God, God, the the moment moment I I aWhat Most powerfully, powerfully, God told me me inin nono uncertain uncertain terms terms Literally, Literally, on on Day DayOne, One, Ishifted recognized and andof counted counted mymy a listening aMost listening heart, heart, I heard IGod heard sotold so much. much. received received the the diagnosis, diagnosis, I Ishifted I recognized into into a state a state of gratitude. gratitude. that He He was was with with meme and and that that He was going going toto guide guide meme blessings: blessings: I live I Day live inin New New York City, City, home home ofof some some ofof the the Most Most powerfully, powerfully, God God told told meHe me inwas in no no uncertain uncertain terms terms Literally, Literally,on on Day One, One, I York recognized I recognized and and counted counted my my that through through cancer cancer and and to tothat greater greater physical physical and spiritual spiritual world’s world’sbest hospitals hospitals including including the theworld-renowned world-renowned that HeHe was was with with me me and and that HeHe was was going going toand to guide guide meme blessings: blessings: Ibest live I live inin New New York York City, City, home home of of some some ofof the the that health.

I cancer had I cancer hadnever never believed inin coincidences, coincidences, so sothe the Memorial Memorial Sloan Sloan Kettering Kettering Cancer Cancer Center; Center; I have I have health health health. through through and and tobelieved togreater greater physical physical and andspiritual spiritual world’s world’s best best hospitals hospitals including including the theworld-renowned world-renowned plethora plethora of of “coincidences”—rather “coincidences”—rather incidences incidences where where insurance—no insurance—no small small feat feat in in America America today; today; I have I have a a health. health.

I had I had never never believed believed in in coincidences, coincidences, so so the the Memorial Memorial Sloan Sloan Kettering Kettering Cancer Cancer Center; Center; I have I have health health God God reinforced reinforced a message a message — — made made it it amply amply clear clear He He community community of of family family and and friends friends who who love love and and support support plethora plethora of of “coincidences”—rather “coincidences”—rather incidences incidences where where insurance—no insurance—nosmall smallfeat featininAmerica Americatoday; today;I have I havea a was was telling telling me, me, “Fear not; not; I’ve I’ve got got you. you. mecommunity mewhatever whatever the the need; need; my my husband husband could could carry carry the the God God reinforced reinforced a“Fear message a message — — made made it itamply amplyclear clearHeHe community ofof family family and and friends friends who who love love and and support support One One such such incidence incidence was was when when Iyou. received Iyou. received a “random” a “random” financial financial weight weight ofneed; of the the family, family, enabling enabling me me tocarry to focus focus on on was was telling telling me, me, “Fear “Fear not; not; I’ve I’ve got got me me whatever whatever the the need; my myhusband husband could could carry the the message message via via Facebook Facebook just just days days before before my my surgery.

It It my my healing; healing; and and I had I had friends friends who who had had been been handed handed the the One One such such incidence incidence was was when when I received I received a “random” a surgery. “random” financial financial weight weight ofof the the family, family, enabling enabling meme toto focus focus onon contained contained a photo a photo I had I had never never seen seen before: before: one one with with my same same diagnosis diagnosis and and were were still still here. here.

This This was was a a deep, deep, message message via via Facebook Facebook just just days days before before my my surgery. surgery.

Itmy It mymy healing; healing; and and I had I had friends friends who who had had been been handed handed the the grandfather grandfather holding holding my 6-year-old 6-year-old hand hand as as he he prepared prepared resounding resounding gratitude, gratitude, one one that that altered my my energies energies and and contained contained a photo a photo I had Imy had never never seen seen before: before: one one with with mymy same same diagnosis diagnosis and andwere were still stillaltered here. here.This This was wasa adeep, deep, to light light the the cannon cannon of of the the New New York York City City It It opened opened meme to to God’s God’s calling. calling.

Awash Awash with with gratitude. gratitude.

I and was I and was to grandfather grandfather holding holding my my 6-year-old 6-year-old hand hand as Marathon. as heMarathon. he prepared prepared resounding resounding gratitude, gratitude, one one that that altered altered my my energies energies was was as as if God if God was was grabbing grabbing me me by by both both sides sides of of the the face face profoundly profoundly blessed blessed and and I felt I felt it. it.

This This was was not not the the gratigratito to light light the the cannon cannon of of the the New New York York City City Marathon.

Marathon.

It It opened opened meme toto God’s God’s calling. calling.

Awash Awash with with gratitude. gratitude.

I was I was like like my my baby baby girl girl does, does, centering centering me me on on what what needs needs my my tude tude that that I had I had tried tried on on because because Oprah Oprah and and the the other other was was as as if God if God was was grabbing grabbing me me by by both both sides sides of of the the face face profoundly profoundly blessed blessed and and I felt I felt it. it.

This This was was not not the the gratigratifocus focus and attention. attention.

God God was was saying, saying, “Listen “Listen here, here, spiritual spiritual experts said said I on should.

I because should.

This This was was sincere sincere gratigrati- like like myand my baby baby girl girl does, does, centering centering meme on on what what needs needs mymy tude tude that that I experts had I had tried tried on because Oprah Oprah and and the the other other child.

Pay Pay attention attentionto to me. me.

I love Isaying, love you you and andI here, am I here, amright right tude, tude, from from the the depths depths my my soul. soul. focus focus and and attention. attention.

God God was was saying, “Listen “Listen my my spiritual spiritual experts experts said saidIofshould.

Iof should.

This Thiswas wassincere sinceregratigrati- child. here here with with you. you.

I will I will carry carry you you through. through.

Just Just have have faith.” faith.”

Long Long before before the the cancer cancer diagnosis—even diagnosis—even before before my my child. child.

Pay Pay attention attention to to me. me.

I love I love you you and and I am I am right right tude, tude, from from the the depths depths ofof mymy soul. soul.

God God gently gently mycarry myhand hand and andwalked walked me me through through grandfather’s grandfather’s illness—I illness—I had had been beencalled; called;I just Ibefore just didn’t didn’t here with with you. you.

Itook will Itook will carry you you through. through.

Just Just have have faith.” faith.”

Long Longbefore before the thecancer cancer diagnosis—even diagnosis—even before mymy here breast cancer cancer literally literally step byby step. step.

God God showed showed up up forfor heed heed the the call. call.

Iillness—I had Iillness—I had said, said, “Ihad “I want want toto work work onIon developing God God gently gently took tookmystep myhand hand and andwalked walked memethrough through grandfather’s grandfather’s had been been called; called; just I developing justdidn’t didn’t breast me, one one ofofHis His billions billions ofby ofchildren. children.

God God was wasfriend, myheed my relationship relationship with with God.” God.” Or, “I to “I feel feel something something is is missmiss- me, breast breast cancer cancer literally literally step step by step. step.

God God showed showed upfriend, up forfor heed the the call. call.

I had I had said, said, “I Or, “I want want to work work onon developing developing Sherpa, Sherpa, and and fluffy fluffy comforter, comforter, a children. safe a safe place place where where I friend, felt I friend, felt nono ing from from mymy life,” life,” but but I failed I failed to“I to invest invest the the time time in my my me, me, one one of of His Hisbillions billions ofofchildren.

God God was was mying my relationship relationship with with God.” God.” Or, Or, “I feel feel something something isinis missmissfear. fear.

Cancer Cancer brought brought me me the the greatest greatest blessing blessing of of all: all: spiritual spiritual pursuit; pursuit; I stuck I stuck to to my my regular regular routine. routine.

I now I now see see Sherpa, Sherpa, and and fluffy fluffy comforter, comforter, a safe a safe place place where where I felt I felt noanoa ing ing from from mymy life,” life,” but but I failed I failed toto invest invest the the time time inin mymy relationship relationship with with mymy Creator.

Creator.

Cancer Cancer brought brought me faith. faith. the the losses losses of of mymy grandfather, grandfather, our our radio radio stations, stations, and and mysee my fear. fear.

Cancer Cancer brought brought me me the the greatest greatest blessing blessing ofme of all: all: a a spiritual spiritual pursuit; pursuit; I stuck I stuck toto mymy regular regular routine. routine.

I now I now see Cancer brought brought me me gratitude. gratitude.

So So toto my my breast breast cancer, cancer, I I father’s father’s mobility mobility asgrandfather, as loud loud callings, callings, callings callings to to God’s God’s side. side. relationship relationship with with my my Creator.

Creator.

Cancer Cancer brought brought me me faith. faith. the the losses losses ofof mymy grandfather, our our radio radio stations, stations, and and mymy Cancer say say thank thank you. you.

The The message: message: you you are are not not alone; alone; God God and and There There were were smaller smaller callings, callings, too: too: chicken chicken pox pox (in (in my my Cancer Cancer brought brought me me gratitude. gratitude.

So So to to my my breast breast cancer, cancer, I I father’s father’s mobility mobility as as loud loud callings, callings callings toto God’s God’s side. side. your your grandfather grandfather are are by by your your side. side.

A A few few days days later, later, I I forties!); forties!); wisdom wisdom tooth tooth extraction; extraction; hernia hernia repair repair sursursay say thank thank you. you.

The The message: message: you you are are not not alone; alone; God God and and There There were were smaller smaller callings, callings, too: too: chicken chicken pox pox (in(in mymy went went into into surgery surgery brimming brimming with with faith, faith, easy easy and and certain certain gery; gery; getting getting mymy finger finger slammed slammed inin the the front front door door ofsurof my my your your grandfather grandfather are arebybyyour your side. side.

A Afew few days days later, later,I I forties!); forties!); wisdom wisdom tooth tooth extraction; extraction; hernia hernia repair repair surall would would be be well. well. went went into into surgery surgery brimming brimming with with faith, faith, easy easy and and certain certain gery; gery; getting getting mymy finger finger slammed slammed inin the the front front door door ofof mymy all The The surgery surgery itself itselfwas wasananactactofoffaith: faith:I Ichose chosea a all all would would be be well. well.

Most Mostpowerfully, powerfully,God Godtold toldme meininnono lumpectomy lumpectomy rather rather than than removing my my entire entire breast, breast, The Thesurgery surgery itself itself was was anremoving anactactofof faith: faith: I Ichose chose a a Most Mostpowerfully, powerfully,God Godtold toldme meininnono replacing replacingmymy fear fearofthan ofrecurrence recurrence with with faith faith that that God God lumpectomy lumpectomy rather rather than removing removing mymy entire entire breast, breast, uncertain uncertainterms termsthat thatHe Hewas waswith withme me would would keep keep me me healthy. healthy.

Each Each time time I went I went for for radiation, radiation, replacing replacing my my fear fear ofofrecurrence recurrence with with faith faith that thatGod God while whilemy my breast breast became became increasingly increasingly sore, sore, changed changed uncertain uncertainterms termsthat thatHe Hewas waswith withme me would would keep keep me me healthy. healthy.

Each Each time time I went I went for for radiation, radiation, composition, composition, and and turned turnedcolors colors ——I reminded I reminded myself myself while while mymybreast breast became became increasingly increasingly sore, sore,changed changed and andthat thatHe Hewas wasgoing goingtotoguide guideme me this this was was how how healing healing looked. looked.

And And with with a reminded newfound a newfound spirspircomposition, composition, and and turned turned colors colors — — I reminded I myself myself and andthat thatHe Hewas wasgoing goingtotoguide guideme me itual itual consciousness, consciousness, that that physical physical healing healing became spirispirithis this was was how how healing healing looked. looked.

And And with with a newfound a became newfound spirspirthrough throughcancer cancerand andtotogreater greaterphysical physical itual tual tual healing. healing.

AllAll told, told, God God has has used used cancer cancer toto heal heal my my itual consciousness, consciousness, that that physical physical healing healing became became spirispirithrough throughcancer cancerand andtotogreater greaterphysical physical tual broken broken heart heart and and instill instill in in me me aused faith aused faith that that will will serve me tual healing. healing.

All All told, told, God God has has cancer cancer toserve to heal heal myme my forbroken for a lifetime. a lifetime. broken heart heart and and instill instill inin meme a faith a faith that that will will serve serve meme and andspiritual spiritualhealth. health. forfor a lifetime. a lifetime. and andspiritual spiritualhealth. health. thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com

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November November 2017 2017 TheThe Positive Positive Community Community 3131

November November 2017 2017 The The Positive Positive Community Community 3131 November 2017 The Positive Community 31

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Isabella House Independent Living for Older Adults 515 Audubon Avenue, New York, NY 10040 www.isabella.org Mary’s story: “New Opportunities and a Renewed Sense of Life”

Our Amenities Include:  Spacious studios starting at $2,400 per month and one-bedroom apartments starting at $2,800 per month  Lunch and Dinner included and served buffet style  All utilities included  Basic Cable TV  Weekly linen service  24-Hour Security  Visitor Parking  Many programs, activities and trips  On-site beauty salon, library, laundry, check cashing facilities and gift shop  Pastoral Services

212-342-9539 www.isabella.org

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hen she first came with her daughter to look at Isabella's apartments for independent seniors, Mary was not in the best of spirits. Her husband of many years had recently died, and her best friend just moved to Virginia. Left alone in the home where she had raised her children, Mary found herself overwhelmed by daily chores. Mary agreed to accompany her daughter to Isabella House to silence her "Mom, you have to make life easier” speech.

After a tour, Mary and her daughter were invited to participate in a Hula Dance class. Mary was thrilled. She loved the music and the way she got to move her hips and use her arms in gentle gestures – and most of all the fun everyone was having.

As the afternoon progressed, Mary felt more comfortable.

She liked the people and was impressed with the genuine warmth of Isabella House. She saw a model apartment and was invited for dinner where she got to meet more residents and hear their stories of life at Isabella.

As she was preparing to leave, the Director invited her for a trial stay to see if she would really like living as a resident at Isabella House. Mary agreed—and was happy to see that her daughter liked the idea as well.

Mary did come for the stay… and moved into Isabella House a few months later. Today, she is an avid Hula Dancer and is also a regular in the "Walking Works Wonders" Program. She feels better than ever and has made many new friends. Her daughter is happy as well.

Mary is just one of our many Isabella success stories. At Isabella House, we thought of everything to enrich and enhance an independent senior’s life.

For more information please call: 212-342-9539

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Aetna Better Better Health速速 of New Aetna New Jersey Jersey 速 Aetna Better Health速 of New Jersey Aetna Better Health of New Jersey

Low and no cost health care through the New Jersey FamilyCare program Low and no cost health care through the New Jersey FamilyCare program Certain income exist care by plan.

To Enrollthe in New Jersey FamilyCare, call 1-800-701-0710 Low and noguidelines cost health through New Jersey FamilyCare program Certain income guidelines existare by eligible, plan. Toyou Enroll inchoose New Jersey FamilyCare, callof1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 1-800-701-0720).

If you can Aetna Better Health New Jersey as Low and noguidelines cost health through New Jersey FamilyCare program Certain income exist care by plan.

To Enrollthe in New Jersey FamilyCare, call 1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 1-800-701-0720). If you are eligible, you can choose your health plan. Aetna Better Health of New Jersey as (TTY: 1-800-701-0720).

If you caninchoose AetnaFamilyCare, Better Health New Jersey as Certain income guidelines existare by eligible, plan.your Toyou Enroll New Jersey call of 1-800-701-0710 health plan. your health plan. Aetna Better Health of New Jersey as (TTY: 1-800-701-0720). If you are eligible, you can choose your health plan.

NJ-17-10-07 | 097-17-33

NJ-17-10-07 | 097-17-33 NJ-17-10-07 | 097-17-33 NJ-17-10-07 | 097-17-33

aetnabetterhealth.com/newjersey aetnabetterhealth.com/newjersey 1-855-232-3596 (TTY 711) aetnabetterhealth.com/newjersey 1-855-232-3596 (TTY 711) 711) 1-855-232-3596 (TTY aetnabetterhealth.com/newjersey 1-855-232-3596 (TTY 711)

Cost-saving benefits, personalized care

Medicare Advantage Plans for 2018 Original Medicare1

Fidelis Medicare Advantage Flex (HMO-POS)

Fidelis Medicare $0 Premium (HMO)

Monthly Part B Premium2

$134

$38

$0

Flex Benefit

None

$400/year

None

Part B Deductible

$183

None

None

PCP Copay

20%

$5

$15

Specialist Copay

20%

$30

$45

Outpatient Surgery in a Hospital or Ambulatory Surgical Center

20%

$360

$360

$0 or 20%

$20

$20

20%

$10

$10

$1,316

$360/day for days 1-5, per admission

$360/day for days 1-5, per admission

No

Yes, with $0 copay for preferred generics $125 deductible

Yes, with $0 copay for preferred generics $0 deductible

None

Yes

Yes

Hearing Device Discounts through TruHearing3

No

Yes

Yes

Money-saving Programs through My Advocate4

No

Yes

Yes

Benefit

Lab Tests X-rays Inpatient Copay Part D Prescription Drug Coverage Preventive Dental

These are 2017 amounts and may change for 2018. 2You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium.

Fidelis Care partners with TruHearing for discounted purchases of hearing devices. 4My Advocate Program, offered through a company called Altegra, connects members to money-saving programs, discounts, and services that may be available. Premiums, copays, coinsurance, and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive.

Please contact the plan for further details. This is not a complete listing of plans available in your service area. For a complete listing, contact the plan. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. This information is available for free in other languages. Please contact our Member Services number at 1-800-860-8707 (TTY: 1-800-558-1125). Fidelis Care is a Coordinated Care plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the New York State Department of Health Medicaid program. Enrollment in Fidelis Care depends on contract renewal.

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Annual Election Period (AEP) is October 15 - December 7, 2017 Call us today! 1-800-860-8707 TTY: 1-800-558-1125

Monday–Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. from October 1–February 14 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. from February 15–September 30 @fideliscare

www.fideliscare.org

H3328_FC 17126 Accepted

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Helping a Family Member or Friend Choose a Medicare Plan

Adult children can play a major role in helping a parent, other relative, or friend choose their Medicare coverage for the coming year.

The Annual Election Period (AEP) for Medicare plans is from October 15 to December 7 for coverage beginning January 1, 2018. People can only change or enroll in Medicare plans during the AEP or during specific lifetime events, such as when they turn 65.

Whether your loved one is just learning about Medicare or has had Medicare coverage for years and would like to make a change, you can be an invaluable resource in helping them choose the right coverage based on their health care needs and priorities.

How do I choose the right Medicare Advantage plan?

Keep these 4 key areas in mind when comparing Medicare plans: 1. Price: The overall cost of a Medicare Advantage plan can vary, based on needs and income. Create a “health care budget” that outlines expected health needs, and compare overall costs.

Key questions: • What is the plan’s monthly premium?

• Is there a deductible you must meet first before coverage begins?

• Are there copays for doctor or specialist visits?

• Is there coinsurance (where your health plan pays for a certain percentage of a health service, and you are responsible to pay the rest)?

2. Products: Find out if the plan’s covered services will help lower the cost of managing your loved one’s health conditions, or if he or she will need to pay out of pocket for certain health care needs.

Sometimes, the least expensive Medicare plan (or even the most expensive one!) may not necessarily be best. One way to see how Medicare plans set themselves apart is to research covered services that original Medicare plans may not always include. For instance, some plans will cover in-home care for members, help with the cost of medical devices such as hearing aids, or provide the expertise of a registered nurse who can help with managing medications or certain health conditions.

Key questions: • Is there dental or vision coverage?

• Does the plan cover prescription drug costs (Part D)?

• Can members receive help managing their chronic conditions?

• Can members get help with their prescription medications?

• Are in-home services or care covered?

3. Providers: A Medicare plan should ideally allow your loved ones to keep seeing the doctors they prefer. Many health plans require members to see doctors within a provider network. Other plans allow members to see any doctor, but these plans usually cost more.

Key questions: • Are preferred doctors “in network”?

• If the primary care provider is in network but specialists are not, is it possible to still get specialist visits covered by referral?

• How close to home are the nearest in-network doctors?

4. Prescription Drugs: It's important to know which medications are covered. Make a list of your loved one's medications, then check the Medicare prescription drug formularies of the plans being considered. A formulary is a list of medications covered by a health plan.

Key questions: • Which prescriptions does your loved one need?

• Will the Medicare plan cover these prescriptions, or will they cost more?

• If any medications are not covered, is there an acceptable alternative in the formulary?

• Will that alternative interact well with the other medications being taken?

Do you have questions or need more information?

Fidelis Care's Licensed Sales Representatives are available to meet with you and your loved one in the comfort of their own home or at one of our many community offices.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call 1-800-860-8707 (TTY: 1-800-558-1125) or visit fideliscare.org/medicare. www.thepositivecommunity.com

November 2017 The Positive Community

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Milestone 1,000 Heart Transplants Performed

By Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and RWJ Barnabas Health L–R: Barry H. Ostrowsky, president and chief executive officer, RWJBarnabas Health; Margarita Camacho, MD, surgical director, Heart Transplant at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center; Mark J. Zucker, MD, director, Cardiothoracic Transplant Program at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center; Tina Jones, family member of Queen Latifah; Darrell K. Terry, Sr., president and chief executive officer, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey; Rita Owens, mother of Queen Latifah; Queen Latifah; Marc E. Berson, vice chair, RWJBarnabas Health and chairman, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center heart transplant recipients pose for a photo with Darrell K. Terry Sr., president and chief executive officer, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey and Queen Latifah (center)

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n November 6, RWJBarnabas Health and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey celebrated their milestone 1,000th heart transplant with a special concert performance by Queen Latifah at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center performed their 1,000th heart transplant on July 20, 2017; only 12 centers in the United States have reached this achievement.

“Newark Beth Israel is at the forefront of delivering comprehensive cardiac care and innovative research and this enviable milestone is a testament to our cardiac, surgical and medical teams who have dedicated themselves to building a program that consistently delivers clinical excellence, said Darrell K. Terry, Sr., president and chief executive officer, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.

The program is a national leader that consistently ranks among the top ten busiest heart transplant programs in the country.

More than 600 guests attended the celebration including employees, senior administrators, and heart transplant recipients. The night was filled with emotional reunions between heart transplant recipients and the medical teams and staff who cared for them while in the hospital.

“I still get emotional. It’s been almost nine years [since

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The Positive Community November 2017

transplant] and without this hospital, without this new heart I wouldn’t be here and my children wouldn’t be here. This is an amazing night for me,” said Stefania DeMayo, who became the first woman in the United States to give birth to twins after her heart transplant in 2008.

“This exciting milestone further solidifies our national footprint and reflects the world-class cardiology and cardiac surgery services at RWJBarnabas Health. As the largest and most comprehensive healthcare system in New Jersey we are proud to offer these services to residents throughout the region,” said Barry H. Ostrowsky, president and CEO, RWJBarnabas Health.

Innovation in Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant Newark Beth Israel Medical Center has always been at the forefront of cardiac care and heart transplant. Dr. Victor Parsonnet performed the first heart transplant in New Jersey in 1986, in 1992 Newark Beth Israel became the first center in New Jersey to employ extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, Newark Beth Israel was the first hospital to use Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) in New Jersey, and for more than a decade the Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant program at Newark Beth Israel has been ranked among the top ten heart transplant programs in the nation.

For more information about visit rwjbh.org/hearttransplant. www.thepositivecommunity.com

1,000 hearts transplanted.

Countless lives touched.

RWJBarnabas Health is one of the top three adult heart transplant programs in the nation.

And Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is where it all began—the first and largest heart transplant center in New Jersey. Today, we celebrate more than 1,000 hearts transplanted, but perhaps more than anything, we pause to celebrate the sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters and friends and relatives who have been transformed by transplant. You are the heroes of this story. You continue to inspire us.

rwjbh.org/hearttransplant

HealthCare Executives Scholarship Gala Abigal Nimako NAHSE president-elect L–R: Percy Allen, II; LaRay Brown; Dr. Lewis Marshall, Jr.; Hope L. Mason; Dr. John Flateau; Ebone Carrington; Adrian A. Council, Sr., board chair, African Americans for Health Awareness (AAHA); health advocacy volunteers.

Honoree Darrel Gay, Esq.

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stablished in 1968 for the purpose of promoting the advancement and development of black executives in the healthcare field and elevating the quality of healthcare services rendered to minority and underserved communities, education remains at the core of the mission of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE).

The New York Regional Chapter, whose leadership and members include administrators, educators, and practitioners working in a wide variety of healthcare organizations, gathered for their annual scholarship gala on September 21st at the New York Academy of Medicine on Fifth Avenue in Harlem.

The 2017 honorees: LaRay Brown, president/CEO, One Brooklyn Health System; Ebone Carrington, MPA, FABC, CEO/COO NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem (Harlem Hospital); John Flateau, PhD, professor of Public Administration and Political Science, Medgar Evers College; Darrell Gay, JD, partner, Arent Fox, LLC; Lewis Marshall, MD, JD, FACHE, medical director, Student Health Center, New York University.

On this occasion, NAHSE President Hope L. Mason introduced president-elect Abigal Nimako. Denise Richardson served as mistress of ceremonies.

This series is supported by:

Happenings at the Newark Museum | November 2017 ate

hursdays at the

Newark Museum Light it Up

December 21, 2017

Celebrate all things sparkly, shiny, and bright for the winter solstice. We’ve got a global mash-up of holidaythemed activities, performances, and art inspired by the Museum’s collection.

Doors open 5 pm | Program 6-9 pm FREE admission (includes two drink tickets)

The Body Eclectic January 18, 2018 Feel the pulse, rhythm, and spirit of the body come alive during an evening of exploration inspired by the breadth of the Museum’s diverse collection of historic and contemporary African art.

Reinvent your Thursday evenings.

Light refreshments will be served. newarkmuseum.org

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For more details, visit our website.

The Positive Community November 2017

49 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07102-3176 973.596.6550 TTY 711 On-site parking available for a fee. www.thepositivecommunity.com

EVERY BREATH BREATHISISAAMIRACLE...

MIRACLE...

Perhaps no one knows The annual event brings Perhaps no one knows The annual event brings this better than E. Denise together thousands of this better than E. Denise together thousands of Peoples. This fall, Denise, walkers, runners and Peoples. This fall, Denise, walkers, runners and 53, celebrated the eleventh volunteers to honor those 53, celebrated the eleventh volunteers to honor those anniversary of of her her life-saving, life-saving, who gave, pay tribute anniversary who gave, pay tribute to to double-lung transplant. those who received, offer double-lung transplant. those who received, offer “God is good.

He put the hope to those who continue “God is good. He put the hope to those who continue right people people in in my mypath, path,”” wait and remember right toto wait and remember thethe she says. says. lives lost while waiting she lives lost while waiting forfor Denise’s difficult path the gift of life.

Denise’s difficult path the gift of life. began in in 2002 2002 when, when,without without Denise feels blessed began Denise feels blessed to to family history history or or having havingever ever have connected with aa family have connected with NJNJ smoked a day in her life, she Sharing Network along smoked a day in her life, she Sharing Network along herher was diagnosed with pulmonary journey. a Community was diagnosed with pulmonary journey.

AsAs a Community fibrosis. She She was was performing performing Educator, she speaks high fibrosis.

Educator, she speaks at at high regularly as as aa stand-up stand-upcomic, comic, schools, businesses and regularly schools, businesses and but this this was was no no laughing laughing houses worship share houses of of worship to to share matter. She She struggled struggledto to this life-saving message. matter. this life-saving message. breathe, would would often oftenfaint faintand and She tells audiences that breathe, She tells herher audiences that ultimately came came to torely relyon onan an everyone has power ultimately everyone has thethe power to to oxygen tank. tank. But But she shedid didnot notlet let save a life, and many have oxygen save a life, and many have condition stop stopher. her. registered organ and her condition registered as as organ and “Even with with the the oxygen, oxygen,I I tissue donors after hearing “Even tissue donors after hearing continued her story. continued doing doing my mycomedy. comedy. her story.

——E. E.Denise Peoples, Denise Peoples, I just During thethe month of of just kept kept smiling smiling and andkept kept During month NJNJSharing Network Community Educator Sharing Network Community Educator going, November, Denise’s primary going,”” she she says. says.

November, Denise’s primary and recipient anddouble doublelung lungtransplant transplant recipient Her focus is Donor Sabbath, a a Her strong strong Christian Christianfaith faith focus is Donor Sabbath, played an instrumental role in her recovery.

Family, time to start the conversation about donation in faith played an instrumental role in her recovery. Family, time to start the conversation about donation in faith friends communities the country.

AllAll major religions friends and and members membersof ofher herchurch churchshowered showeredher herwith with communitiesacross across the country. major religions prayers, support donation asas one of of thethe prayers, visits, visits, and andphone phonecalls—anything calls—anythingshe sheneeded needed supportorgan organand andtissue tissue donation one during her darkest days. highest expressions of love, compassion and generosity. during her darkest days. highest expressions of love, compassion and generosity.

After “There’s gift than the gift of of organ and After her her successful successfultransplant transplantinin2006, 2006,Denise Denise “There’snonogreater greater gift than the gift organ and adopted tissue ” she says.

“I’m a living, breathing adopted the the motto motto“Breathin’ “Breathin’Ezy. Ezy.””It’s It’sthe thename nameofofher her tissuedonation, donation, ” she says.

“I’m a living, breathing NJ example NJ Sharing Sharing Network Network5K 5KCelebration CelebrationofofLife Lifeteam. team. exampleofofit.”it.”

There’sno nogreater greatergift giftthan than There’s thegift giftof oforgan organand andtissue tissue the donation.I’m I’maaliving, living, donation. breathing breathingexample exampleofofit.it.

To To learn learn more, more, get getinvolved involvedand andregister registerasasan anorgan organand andtissue tissuedonor, donor,visit visitwww.NJSharingNetwork.org. www.NJSharingNetwork.org.

JOIN JOIN US US IN IN OUR OUR LIFE-SAVING LIFE-SAVING MISSION MISSION

National time associated with giving thanks.

NationalDonor DonorSabbath Sabbathisisduring duringthethemonth monthofofNovember—a November—a time associated with giving thanks.

Faith-based communities unite to increase awareness about organ and tissue donation.

Faith-based communities unite to increase awareness about organ and tissue donation.

Partner Partnerwith withyour yourfaith-based faith-basedleader leadertotogetgetinvolved: involved: Invite a transplant recipient or donor in in your faith-based community.

Invite a transplant recipient or donorfamily familymember memberto tospeak speak your faith-based community.

Host donor registration drives and distribute informational materials.

Host donor registration drives and distribute informational materials.

Share tissue donation in faith-based bulletins.

Sharestories storiesofofthose thosewho whohave havebeen beentouched touchedbybyorgan organandand tissue donation in faith-based bulletins.

691 Central Avenue, New Providence, NJ 07974 691 Central Avenue, New Providence, NJ 07974 800-742-7365 800-742-7365

2017_Positive Community Ad.indd 1

11/7/2017 12:35:34 PM

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Spiritual Leaders and End-of-Life Care In my ministry I am guided by a poem by James Weldon Johnson, A Funeral Sermon (Go Down Death).

Having a plan gives everyone peace of mind.

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or as long as I can remember in my 80+ years of life, it is the most profound written statement on the black community's understanding of death. As a child, my great-grandmother had a picture depicting that poem. I now have it in my study.

It's an image of death coming down into the slave quarters, a hut. The image is a white chariot. Inside the hut is Sister Caroline, who is tired, and God is calling her home.

Outside of the hut is Sister Caroline’s family. Sister Caroline has a smile on her face because only she can see the chariot that is coming.

In death, yes, God calls us to come home. No other living person can see the chariot coming. When a dying person is telling you how they want to be cared for at the end of life, they’re telling you what to do in a situation that you cannot fully see. Then that decision is between God and the dying person. That decision does not belong to the people outside the hut.

Far too many people in our community face death and dying without a plan; that leaves others making decisions for us at a time when we’re most vulnerable. As trusted leaders in our communities, we can encourage our congregations to talk about planning for care that is consistent with their faith and their values at the end of life.

Compassion & Choices, the nation’s oldest, largest and most active nonprofit working to improve care and expand options for the end of life, can help by providing resources for end-of-life planning that clergy members can share.

We can help people and their families to be ready so that when a person’s time comes, we can provide guidance and support for making difficult end-of-life decisions.

Death will come down for all of us. As people, we can choose how we meet it; as clergy, we can help guide them.

That should include an advance healthcare plan. You hope your loved ones know your healthcare wishes, especially if you are hospitalized and unable to speak for yourself.

But hope isn’t enough.

When a medical emergency strikes, it is important that your wishes and values are respected by your healthcare providers.

Learn more about your options:

CompassionAndChoices.org/EOLC NY@CompassionAndChoices.org NJ@CompassionAndChoices.org

Rev. Dr. Paul Smith is pastor emeritus of the First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn. Dr. Smith created models of multicultural worship and interfaith collaboration at churches in Buffalo, St. Louis, Atlanta, and New York City. Dr. Smith has worked to foster a world of inclusiveness, diversity, peace, and justice.

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

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.

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.

Harlem Center

FOR NURSING AND REHABILITATION

An Allure Facility

30 W. 138th Street New York, NY 10037 (212) 690-7400 WWW.HARLEMCENTERREHAB.COM

www.thepositivecommunity.com

BE YOURSELF The health plan for individuals

If you are looking for a welcoming community that celebrates you for who you are, we invite you to find out more about Amida Care.

Comprehensive health coverage

Personal champion who works with you privately to customize your health care Expertise in chronic medical conditions, such as HIV, behavioral health issues, and Hepatitis C

Help with housing referrals, job training, and other support programs

Medicaid Live Life Plus Health Plan

Call us for confidential answers: 1-855-GO-AMIDA (1-855-462-6432), TTY 711 www.AmidaCareNY.org November 2017 The Positive Community

41

Seacoast District Hosts GNBCNJ United Healthcare Faith Based Community Relations Coordinator Charlotte Kinsey addresses audience

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undreds came from across the state for the 113th Annual Session of the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey. The five-day event, October 1-5, 2017, convened at the Second Baptist Church, Long Branch, NJ. Rev. Aaron N. Gibson, Sr. is the pastor of Second Bapist; Dr. Lester W. Taylor is Convention president; Rev. James H. Brown, Sr. is Seacoast District moderator.

Photos: Karen Waters

General Baptist Convention of NJ honors Newark Municipal Council President Mildred Crump (center, white hat)

L–R: Derrick Green and Pastors Albert Morgan, Bernadette Glover, Cory L. Jones, and W. Franklyn Richardson

Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr. (seated), president of General Baptist Convention of New Jersey (GBCNJ) surrounded by clergy leadership team.

Headquartered in Trenton, GBCNJ is a statewide church membership organization representing more than 350 congregations.

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

New Jersey residents, learn how you can get

MORE BENEFITS THAN ORIGINAL MEDICARE. If you live in New Jersey and have both Medicare and full Medicaid, you may qualify for the UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® ONE (HMO SNP) plan. It’s a plan that offers more benefits than Original Medicare, including: Health Products Catalog Up to $900 in credits to buy things you may need.

Personal Emergency Response System No cost for monthly monitoring.

Health Products Debit Card Up to $800 in credits to buy things you may need.

Meal Program Up to 84 meals in 28 days delivered to you with $0 copay.

If you have both NJ FamilyCare and Medicare, you may qualify for more benefits. Call us to learn more.

1-888-834-3721, TTY 711

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week

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

disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-941-4647, TTY 711.

1-800-941-4647, TTY 711.

Y0066_161213_104149 Accepted H3113-005_CST17522

KAHLIL KAHLIL CARMICHAEL CARMICHAEL THE THE FITNESS FITNESS DOCTOR DOCTOR

Kahlil KahlilCarmichael CarmichaelMAPCC, MAPCC,MDIV, MDIV,CPT CPTisisthe thepastor pastorofofLive LiveWell WellChurch, Church,ininSomerset, Somerset,New NewJersey.

Jersey.He Heisis aafitness fitnessspecialist specialistatatThe TheFitness FitnessDoctor, Doctor,aafitness fitnessand andwellness wellnessconsulting consultingcompany; company;and andthe theauthor authorofof 50 50Tips Tipsfor foraaBetter BetterYou You . .He Heisisaacontributor contributortotoGuideposts Guidepostsmagazine. magazine.His Hisfirst firstpublication, publication,Living LivingLonger Longer Living LivingBetter, Better,isisavailable availablenow. now.Go Gototowww.livewellchurch.org www.livewellchurch.orgfor formore moreinformation. information.

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love loveautumn autumnand andallallthe theexpectations expectationsthe theseason seasonbrings. brings.

ItItisisduring duringthis thisseason seasonthat thatI Ibegin begintotoassess assesswhat whatneeds needs totostay, stay,what whatneeds needstotogo, go,and andhow howI Ican canfulfill fulfillGod’s God’spurpurpose, pose,plan, plan,and andpromise promisefor formy mylife. life.InInother otherwords, words,it’s it’s truth-telling truth-tellingtime! time!That’s That’sa a“Carmichaelism” “Carmichaelism”I Icame cameup upwith with for forspeaking speakingtruth truthtotopower powerand andprompting promptingchange changenot not only onlyininmy mylife, life,but butthe thepeople peopleI Iserve—helping serve—helpingthem them improve improvemind, mind,body, body,and andspirit. spirit.

The Theother otherday daymy my11-year-old 11-year-olddaughter daughtercame cameinto intomy my office officetotochat. chat.After Afterwe wetalked talkedabout abouther herinterests, interests,referring referring totoa apicture pictureofofme mefrom from1010years yearsago agohanging hangingon onthe thewall wallI I reluctantly reluctantlyasked, asked,“Do “DoI Istill stilllook lookthe thesame?” same?”My Mydaughter, daughter, without withouthesitation hesitationreplied, replied,“No, “No,your yourhead headisisbigger biggerand andyou you are arebald baldbecause becauseyou youcut cutyour yourhair hairoff. off.But Butdon’t don’tworry worry daddy, daddy,you youstill stilllook lookgood.” good.”Ouch!

Ouch!I Imust mustadmit admitmy myego egowas was a alittle littlebruised, bruised,but butshe shewas wastelling tellingthe thetruth. truth.My Myhead headisisbigbigger, ger,I Idid didcut cutoff offmy myhair, hair,and andyes, yes,I Istill stilllook lookgood! good!

This Thisconversation conversationgot gotme methinking thinkingabout aboutthe theimportance importance ofofloving lovingsomeone someoneenough enoughtototell tellthem themthe thetruth. truth.When Whenitit comes comestotoimproving improvingour ourphysical physicalfitness fitnessand andhealth, health,sursurrounding roundingourselves ourselveswith withpeople peoplewho whowill willnot notspeak speakthe the truth truthininlove lovewill willliterally literallymake makeororkeep keepyou yousick. sick.ItItisisoften often said saidthat thatwhen whena ahusband husbandisisasked askedbybyhis hiswife, wife,“Do “DoI Ilook look fat?” fat?”the thehusband husbandmust mustrespond, respond,“No, “No,not notatatallallhoney,” honey,” even evenififwhat whathe heisissaying sayingisisan anuntruth! untruth!AAmiddle-aged middle-agedman man might mightfind findhimself himselfwearing wearinga atight tightmuscle muscleshirt. shirt.It’s It’sthe the same samesituation.What’s situation.What’ssad sadisisthe thevery verypeople peoplewho whoshould shouldbe be telling tellingthese thesetwo twoindividuals individualsthe thetruth truthhave havedecided decidedtotolet let them themthink thinkthey theyare arealright. alright.We Wemust mustlove lovepeople peopleand andourourselves selvesenough enoughtototell tellthem themthe thetruth. truth.

What Whattruth truthare areyou youavoiding avoidingsharing sharingwith withsomeone someoneyou you love? love?Maybe Maybeyour yourmom momisisstill stilleating eatingsugar sugarand andshe sheisisa adiadiabetic beticand andyou youare areafraid afraidtotoput putyour yourfoot footdown downand andtell tellher her totostop stopororshe shewill willdie. die.Perhaps Perhapsyour yourhusband husbandhas hashigh high blood bloodpressure pressureand andrefuses refusestotogo gototothe thedoctor doctorout outofofsheer sheer stubbornness. stubbornness.I Ithink thinkit’s it’stime timetototell tellhim himsome somehard hardtruth truth about aboutthe theproblems problemsassociated associatedwith withhypertension hypertensionand andheart heart disease. disease.

I Iunderstand understandthe thedisdain disdainmost mostpeople peoplehave havefor forhearing hearingthe the truth. truth.But Buttruth truthmust mustbebeshared sharedininlove lovewithout withoutattachment attachmenttoto outcome. outcome.So, So,tell tellthe thepeople peopleyou youlove lovethe thetruth. truth.

44The ThePositive PositiveCommunity CommunityNovember November2017 2017 44 The Positive Community November 2017

Here Hereare aresome sometruths truths about aboutregular regularexercise: exercise: Regular Regular exercise exercise can can prevent prevent and andreverse reverseage-related age-relateddecreasdecreasesesininmuscle musclemass massand andstrength; strength; improve improvebalance, balance,flexibility, flexibility,and and endurance; endurance;and anddecrease decreasethe therisk riskofoffalls fallsininthe theelderly. elderly.

Regular Regularexercise exercisecan canhelp helpprevent preventcoronary coronaryheart heartdisease, disease, stroke, stroke,diabetes, diabetes,obesity, obesity,and andhigh highblood bloodpressure. pressure.Regular, Regular, weight-bearing weight-bearingexercise exercisecan canalso alsohelp helpprevent preventosteoporosis osteoporosis bybybuilding buildingbone bonestrength. strength.

Regular Regular exercise exercise can can help help chronic chronic arthritis arthritis sufferers sufferers improve improvetheir theircapacity capacitytotoperform performdaily dailyactivities activitiessuch suchasas driving, driving,climbing climbingstairs, stairs,and andopening openingjars. jars.

Regular Regularexercise exercisecan canhelp helpincrease increaseself-esteem self-esteemand andselfselfconfidence, confidence,decrease decreasestress stressand andanxiety, anxiety,enhance enhancemood, mood, and andimprove improvegeneral generalmental mentalhealth. health.

Regular Regularexercise exercisecan canhelp helpcontrol controlweight weightgain gainand andinin some somepeople peoplecause causeloss lossofoffat. fat.

Thirty Thirtyminutes minutesofofmodest modestexercise exercise(walking (walkingisisOK) OK)atat least leastthree threetotofive fivedays daysa aweek weekisisrecommended, recommended,but butthe the greatest greatesthealth healthbenefits benefitscome comefrom fromexercising exercisingmost mostdays daysofof the theweek. week.

I Iwill willnever neverforget forgetthe thetime timeI Ihad haddinner dinnerwith witha apastor pastorwho who was wasseverely severelyobese. obese.He Hewas wasa agreat greatperson personfrom fromwhat whatI Iheard heard about abouthim. him.That’s That’sright rightwas. was.This Thisgentleman gentlemandied dieda aweek weekafter afterI I met methim. him.I Ifelt feltininmy myspirit spiritI Ishould shouldtalk talktotohim himabout abouthis hishealth health but butI Idid didnot. not.I Idecided decidedI Idid didnot notwant wanttotobother botherhim. him.

Who Whoknows knowsififmy mytelling tellinghim himhow howhis hislack lackofofexercise exerciseand and proper propernutrition nutritionwould wouldhave havehalted haltedhis hisearly earlydeparture departurefrom fromthis this life. life.I Idon’t don’tknow. know.I Iwould wouldlike liketotothink thinkthat thatthis thispastor pastorspending spending time timewith withme meatatThe TheFitness FitnessDoctor/Live Doctor/LiveWell WellChurch Churchwould would have havesaved savedhis hislife. life.

Unfortunately, Unfortunately,we wemay maynever neverknow. know.Because BecauseI Ifailed failedtototell tell him himthe thetruth. truth.

Peace Peaceand andBlessings.

Blessings.

ToTogrow growspiritually spirituallyand andimprove improvephysically physicallyororhave havePastor Pastor Carmichael Carmichaelpresent presenthis hiswellness wellnessseminar seminartotoyour yourchurch churchoror group, group,email emailPastor@itiswellchurch.com Pastor@itiswellchurch.comororvisit visitour ourwebsite website atatwww.livewellchurch.org www.livewellchurch.org thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Alzheimer’s to about A NewDJersey V is here E R help T youOand those R Iyou care A L through care consultation, education, support, and more.

our Helpline at 888-280-6055 visit alznj.org .

TheCallImportance oforCaregiver Education ®

P

roviding care for a loved one, particularly someone with Alzheimer’s disease, can be challenging. Caregivers can be overwhelmed by this responsibility. As a loved one progresses through the stages of Alzheimer’s disease, caregivers find that they have more questions than answers and may not know what their next steps should be in continuing to respond effectively to changes in physical ability, communication, behavior and cognition; changes that are all a result of Alzheimer’s disease.

In addition, caregivers experience a high level of stress in trying to manage these many responsibilities.

One of the most effective ways to help ensure optimum care for those

with Alzheimer’s disease is through caregiver education. Learning about the disease and knowing what to expect can help caregivers feel more in control. It is also important for caregivers to learn ways to manage stress and care for themselves in the midst of caring for a loved one.

Alzheimer’s New Jersey® education programs seek to achieve this goal. Our programs range from basic education about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias to specialized topics such as coping with challenging behaviors, communication tips and techniques, caregiver stress as well as intensive education programs that provide information for caregivers specific to the three stages of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, we

offer conferences throughout the year that provide caregivers with the opportunity to hear from physicians, attorneys and other professionals with experience in working with families that are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. We work collaboratively with hospitals systems, houses of worship, libraries and other community organizations to provide education programs that help families cope with the challenges of caregiving.

Becoming educated about Alzheimer’s disease, learning practical caregiving approaches, and using caregiving resources are important strategies. Learn more about our caregiver conferences and other education programs by visiting our website at www.alznj.org.

ARE YOU CARING FOR SOMEONE WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE? CALL HELPLINE: 888-280-6055 Alzheimer’s New Jersey is here to help you and those you care about through care consultation, education, support, and more.

Call our Helpline at 888-280-6055 or visit alznj.org®.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

November 2017 The Positive Community

45

Culture

music, art + literature L–R: Jean Nash-Wells and Adrian Council making their acceptance speech

L–R: Donald C. Notice, executive director of West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc.; Dyana Williams, WHGA Leadership Award Honoree; and June Andrews-Henderson, WHGA deputy director

Tony Hillery making his acceptance speech.

West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. 46th Anniversary Gala

T

he night featured a cocktail reception followed by the main awards ceremony, which recognized honorees for their distinguished careers and achievements impacting the West Harlem community and beyond.

It was Thursday, October 26, 2017 at the Escape Ballroom in Midtown Manhattan and West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. (WHGA) celebrated their 46th Anniversary Gala —over four decades of community building and development.

Media personality, celebrity strategist and cultural activist Dyana Williams, also one of the Leadership Award honorees hosted the event.

Other honorees included: Sabrina Lamb, founding chief officer of WorldofMoney.org, who also received a Leadership Award; Tony Hillery, founder & executive director of Harlem Grown; and Adrian Council and Jean Nash Wells, founders of The Positive Community magazine were each awarded with WHGA’s Community Service Award.

Chase Bank, Columbia University, Bank of NY Mellon, Phipps Houses, First Republic Bank, Mega Contracting Group, Joined Development, and Federated National Landall sponsored the gala, during which a collective effort by attendees raised over $7,000 for Hurricane Relief in Puerto Rico.

46

The Positive Community November 2017

Former Congressman Charles Rangel and New York State Assembly Woman, Inez Dickens

Photos: Bennett Raglin

L–R: Darryl Roberts, Tony Hillery, Sabrina Lamb, and Donald C. Notice

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Former UMBA Moderator Celebrated

C

L–R: Rev. Keith A. Bolden, Sr., associate minister Zion BC, NYC; Rev. Dr. Gloria Bradshaw, pastor of Mt. Bethel BC, Bronx, NY; Rev. Dr. Patricia A. Morris, pastor of New Springfield Missionary BC of Harlem; and Rev. Jeffrey Crenshaw, pastor of Tabernacle BC, NYC

Photos: Bruce Moore

lergy leaders, family, friends, and congregation members packed the Eastwood Manor in the Bronx to fellowship at the appreciation dinner for their beloved Moderator Rev. Dr. Carl Washington, Jr. For four years, Moderator Washington presided over the United Missionary Baptist Association, representing over 161 churches in Manhattan, Bronx, and lower Westchester County.

The occasion was a farewell banquet and a victory celebration for Dr. Washington, who completed his term as UMBA moderator and awaits his November installation as president of Empire State Missionary Baptist Convention of New York. Dr. Washington, senior pastor of Zion Baptist Church in Harlem, will succeed Rev. Ronald Grant as Empire State president.

Rev. Dr. Carl and First Lady Pearl Washington

DEC 13, 7PM • DEC 14–16, 8PM • DEC 17, 2PM

Rev. Ronald Grant, president, Empire Missionary Baptist Convention of New York

Featuring the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and vocalists Catherine Russell and Kenny Washington ROSE THEATER • TICKETS START AT $45

PHOTO BY FRANK STEWART

BIG BAND HOLIDAYS

frederick p. rose hall • broadway at 60th st. centercharge: 212-721-6500 • JAZZ.ORG/HARLEM www.thepositivecommunity.com

November 2017 The Positive Community

47

Newark’s Inter-faith Alliance Prayer Breakfast

M

ayor Ras Baraka’s annual Interfaith Alliance Prayer Breakfast provides an opportunity for Newark clergy of all faiths to address a wide array of issues they face in seeking to improve the quality of life of others.

Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree, Office of Clergy Affairs aide, served as host for the event, which was held on Wednesday, October 11, at the Robert Treat Hotel.

In addition to a rousing welcome by Mayor Baraka, attendees heard an uplifting message from keynote speaker Imam Zaid Shakir, founder and member of the Board of Trustees and senior faculty member of Zaytuna College in Berkeley, California. Imam Shakir, one of the most respected and influential Islamic scholars in the West, is co-founder of the New Brunswick Islamic Center.

Gospel and jazz singer, 16-year-old prodigy Alexis Morrast performed — a marvelous and fitting entertainment for the “Spiritual Display of Love and Unity,” the theme of the event. —JNW

Mayor Ras J. Baraka

L–R Thomas Clanton, Shop Rite manager, Newark, NJ; Kevin Brown, SEIU/32BJ; Neil Greenstein, owner, Shop Rite, Newark, NJ; Pastor Marcelino Nieves, Jr.; and Pastor Moacir Weirich, St. Stephan’s Grace Community Church, Newark, NJ

L–R: Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd, Fellowship Missionary B.C. and Rev. Dr. Kirk W. Morton, Shekinah Glory Christian Church

Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree, Mayor’s Office of Clergy Affairs aide

Photos: Karen Waters

L-R Sirfaraz Piracha, Imam Zaid Shakir, Imam Daud Haqq, Imam Abdul Razzak, and Abdul Basit Haqq

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The Positive Community November 2017

Felicia R. Osborne, pastor of Bethel Worldwide Love and Resource Outreach Ministries www.thepositivecommunity.com

W

hen Margaret “Marty” Gillis became a McDonald’s owner/operator in 1995, she vowed to herself that she would be committed to the communities she serves in Monmouth County.

She has kept that promise, working tirelessly providing school supplies, various sports sponsorships, support of many organizations including local police departments and education scholarships to her employees.

Even with running her eleven McDonald’s restaurants, Marty is never too busy to lend a helping hand and takes pride in being a visible and active member of her community.

Throughout the years, she has been able to make a difference!

McDonald’s is a part of our community 365 days a year!

e h t o t r e e h c e r o ! n gm o s a e s y a d i l y o o t h d e p p his Helpeusw ubring a r ! e nw more vcheer g a r e to the VISIT US AT OUR 10 LOCATIONS TO HELP US GIVE BACK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

1256 St. George Avenue Avenel, NJ 07001 • 970 Route 9 South South Amboy, NJ 08879 3636 Route 9 Freehold, NJ 07728 • Route 35 & Amboy Avenue Cliffwood Beach, NJ 07735 1065 Easton Ave Somerset, NJ 08873 • 361 Route 18 South East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Highway 33 & 35 Neptune, NJ 07753 • 330 Route 9 North Woodbridge, NJ 07095 909 Oak Tree Road South Plainfield, NJ 07080 • 3542 Route 66 Neptune, NJ 07753

n e d b n e a f Help us bring more cheer toto the a br Help bring more cheer the C Helpus us bring more cheer to the c M l l a children this holiday season!

HHelp m e schildren l p children this holiday season! ususbbring cheerseason! to the children holiday holiday season! rithis nthismore

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gbrand mornew Bring in a brand unwrapped e Bring in a new unwrapped toy toy chchildren c h iBring ldBring brand new unwrapped toy e holiday season! renininthaathis e brand new unwrapped toy r tobeverage! t i h s e & receive a small McCafe h o & receive a small McCafe beverage! idaunwrapped B receive a a brand lnew small beverage! in toy rinBring g in a yMcCafe && & receive small McCafe beverage! s a brand e a s o re&cereceive n n a small McCafe beverage! ! e w ivNovember unDecember ea wrappe 15 – 15 d November 15 – December 15 s t m o y a l l December November 15 15 cDecember Cafe be 15 15–– –MDecember 15 NNovember ovNovember vera 15 em

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All toys will be donated to local families in need. No purchase necessary.

All toys will be donated to local families in need. No purchase necessary.

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Photo: Kesha Lambert

Dominique Sharpton and Dr. Marcus Alan Bright Wed

O

n Sunday, October 15, 2017, Dominique Isis Sharpton and Dr. Marcus Alan Bright were married by Rev. Margaret Elaine Flake at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral in Jamaica, New York. Since much of Dominique Sharpton’s life has been spent in public at rallies and National Action Network events where many members of the community watched her grow up, the wedding was open to the general public. A meet and greet reception in the Great Hall followed the ceremony.

The bride, 30, an actress, producer, and national director of Membership at National Action Network, is the eldest daughter of Kathy Jordan Sharpton and Rev. Al Sharpton. Her father is the renowned civil rights leader. Her mother is a production coordinator at the world famous Apollo Theater and operates her own catering company.

The Groom, 33, is an administrator at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn and a visiting professor at the University of Massachusetts. He is also executive director of Education for A Better America. Marcus is the eldest son of Phillip and Vanessa Bright. His mother is a speech therapist for Weakley County, Tennessee Public Schools. His father is the director of Human Resources at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

Dominique and Marcus met on the night of June 1, 2012 in New York, at Sylvia’s Restaurant in Harlem. They officially became a couple on August 20, 2012, and the rest is history!

The happy couple

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The Positive Community November 2017

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Healthfirst is the brand name used for products and services provided by one or more of the Healthfirst group of affiliated companies. © 2017 HF Management Services, LLC 2257-17 November 2017 The Positive Community

51

PATRICIA BALDWIN PATRICIA PATRICIA BALDWIN BALDWIN

Marvin Close!

Close!

Be BeClose! to toBe Thankful Thankfulto Sapp SappisisisThankful Marvin Sapp GRACE & PEACE FAMILY! GRACE e& &are PEACE PEACE FAMILY! FAMILY! heading toward the end of the year and I e e are are heading heading toward toward the theI’m end end ofofthe theto year year and and don’t know about you, but grateful God toI I don’t don’t know know about about you, you, but but I’m I’m grateful grateful to to God God get here. We often speak of how fast the yeartoto get get here. here.

We We get often often speak speak of how how fast the theyear year went and what we didn’t to do, butof let’s takefast a moment went and what what we we didn’t didn’t get get to to do, do, but but let’s let’s take take a a moment moment to breathe and say, “Thank You Jesus, I’m still here!” to breathe breathe and say, say, was, “Thank “Thank You You Jesus, Jesus, I’m I’m still still here!”

Whatever the and journey be thankful; whatever thehere!” outWhatever the the journey journey was, was, be be thankful; thankful; whatever whatever the the outcome is, be grateful; and whatever The Lord says, acceptoutit come is, be be grateful; grateful; and and whatever whatever The The Lord Lord says, says, accept accept because His will is right and good. Not only will you be bet-itit because His His will isis right right and good.

Not only only will you you be bebetbetter because ofwill it, you areand thatgood. muchNot closer towill your destiny ter because because of of it, it, you you are are that thatmuch muchcloser closertotoyour yourdestiny destiny and purpose. and purpose. purpose.

Grammy® nominated, 22-time Stellar Award®-winning Grammy® Grammy® nominated, nominated, 22-time 22-timeStellar StellarAward®-winning Award®-winning Gospel music icon Marvin Sapp says the same thing on his Gospel music music icon icon Marvin MarvinSapp Sappsays saysthe thesame samething thingon onhis his 11th solo album Close, which debuted atop the Billboard 11th solo album album Close, Close, which which debuted debuted atop atopthe theBillboard Billboard Gospel Albums chart—his fifth consecutive #1 album Gospel Albums Albums chart—his chart—his fifth fifth consecutive consecutive #1 #1 album album debut. Close also debuted at #1 on the Gospel Total debut. Close Close also also debuted debuted at at #1 #1 on on the the Gospel Gospel Total Total Consumption Chart, but what do you expect from a humConsumption Consumption Chart, Chart, but but what whatdo doyou youexpect expectfrom fromaahumhumble man who knew he “Never would have made it without ble man who who knew knew he he “Never “Neverwould wouldhave havemade madeititwithout without you (Jesus ).” “It is a humbling experience when an album you (Jesus (Jesus ).” ).” “It “It isis aa humbling humblingexperience experiencewhen whenan analbum album reaches #1. This music, these songs are birthed out of my reaches #1. #1. This This music, music, these these songs songsare arebirthed birthedout outofofmy my life and testimony. They are my lifeline to God,” Sapp said. life and testimony. testimony. They Theyare aremy mylifeline lifelinetotoGod,” God,”Sapp Sappsaid. said.

“That God would use me to help provide a lifeline to so “That God God would would use use me me to to help help provide provideaalifeline lifelinetotososo many others is remarkable. I am grateful to everyone who many others others isis remarkable. remarkable. IIam amgrateful gratefultotoeveryone everyonewho who worked on this album, and to everyone who has purchased worked on on this this album, album,and andto toeveryone everyonewho whohas haspurchased purchased it. I hope it blesses you the way it continues to bless me.” it. I hope itit blesses blesses you you the the way wayititcontinues continuestotobless blessme.” me.”

This singing preacher or preaching singer, who goes This singing singing preacher preacher or or preaching preaching singer, singer,who whogoes goes hard sure that the focus hardon onevery every everysong song songhe he heministers, ministers, ministers,made made made sure sure that that the the focus focus on teamed up with his onClose Closewas was wasclear clear clearand and andconcise. concise. concise.Marvin Marvin Marvin teamed teamed up up with with his his longtime collaborator Aaron Lindsey.

Sapp also features longtime collaborator collaborator Aaron Aaron Lindsey.

Lindsey. Sapp Sappalso alsofeatures features some someofofthe the thebest best bestinin ingospel gospel gospeltoto tomake make makemore more moretop-charting top-charting top-charting music like connecting with Rodney Jerkins tototo produce the music like like connecting connecting with withRodney RodneyJerkins Jerkins produce produce the the #5#5track “You and Me Together” featuring Erica Campbell track “You “You and and Me Me Together” Together”featuring featuringErica EricaCampbell Campbell and lyrical genius andIzze IzzeWilliams.

Williams.

Williams.Then Then ThenSapp Sapp Sapplinks links linkswith with withthe the the lyrical lyrical genius genius Kirk Franklin as he lends his pen to write one of Marvin’s Kirk Franklin Franklin as as he he lends lends his his pen pento towrite writeone oneofofMarvin’s Marvin’s favorite much favoritesongs songs songson on onthe the thealbum, album, album,“Kind “Kind “KindGod.” God.” God.”Through Through Through much much prayer, Sapp chose to use secular artist R. Kelly’s prayer, Sapp Sapp chose chose to to use use secular secular artist artist R.R. Kelly’s Kelly’ssong song song “Listen,” moving lyrical “Listen,”not not nottoto tobebe becontroversial, controversial, controversial,but but butfor for foritsits its moving moving lyrical lyrical content.

“Safe inin You” and the dynamcontent.Other Other Othersongs songs songsinclude include include “Safe “Safe in You” You” and and the the dynamdynamicictestimonial “Carried Me” on which Sapp sings, “My life testimonial testimonial “Carried “Carried Me” Me” on on which whichSapp Sappsings, sings,“My “My life life

W W

2017 Community 52 2017 2017 November November Community CommunityNovember Positive Positive ThePositive 52The 52 November 2017

was in shambles . . . and He held me.” This song is another was wasininshambles shambles. .. .. and . andHe Heheld held me.” me.”

This This song song is another is another of his favorites from this project. “When we look back on ofofhis hisfavorites favoritesfrom fromthis thisproject. project.“When “When wewe look look back back onon life’s challenges, the only reason we made it to where we are life’s life’schallenges, challenges,the theonly only reason reason wewe made made it to it to where where wewe areare is because He carried us,” he says. isisbecause becauseHe Hecarried carriedus,” us,”hehe says. says.

Pastor Marvin Sapp did an interview on the Word Pastor PastorMarvin MarvinSapp Sappdid didananinterview interviewononthetheWord Word Network promoting his album and he mentioned that the Network Networkpromoting promotinghishisalbum albumand and hehe mentioned mentioned that that thethe flow of his albums is constructed as if he is doing his serflow flowofofhis hisalbums albumsis isconstructed constructedasasif ifhehe is is doing doing hishis ser-sermons. This must be working because he is still making great mons. mons.This Thismust mustbebeworking working because because hehe is still is still making making great great music and household staples no matter how you identify music musicand andhousehold householdstaples staplesnonomatter matterhow how you you identify identify your church status. Marvin claims it’s just like writing a theyour yourchurch churchstatus. status.Marvin Marvinclaims claims it’sit’s just just like like writing writing a thea thesis, it starts with an opening—an introduction if you will, folsis, sis,ititstarts startswith withananopening—an opening—an introduction introduction if you if you will, will, fol-followed by a moment of praise and celebration. Next come lowed lowedbybya amoment momentofofpraise praiseand andcelebration. celebration.

Next Next come come some smooth sounds that bring you to that place to some some smooth smoothsounds soundsthat thatbring bringyou youto tothat thatplace placeto to acknowledge where you are in your life (those are the inspiacknowledge acknowledgewhere whereyou youare are inin your your lifelife (those (those areare thethe inspiinspirational songs). Then Sapp sings something that reflects rational rationalsongs). songs).Then ThenSapp Sappsings singssomething somethingthat that reflects reflects who God is to us and for us—that’s when we go into worship who whoGod Godisistotoususand andfor for us—that’s us—that’s when when wewe gogo into into worship worship and we’ll stay there for aa few more songs.

Then it’s time to and and we’ll we’ll stay stay there there for for afew few more more songs. songs.

Then Then it’sit’s time time to to rejoice again and have some church! rejoice rejoiceagain againand andhave havesome some church! church!

This singer-songwriter, teacher, pastor, and father has the This This singer-songwriter, singer-songwriter, teacher, teacher, pastor, pastor, and and father father hashas thethe consistency to reveal the love of God. Whether it’s with his consistency consistencytotoreveal revealthe thelove loveofof God. God. Whether Whether it’sit’s with with hishis children, church family, or anyone he meets—his desire to children, children,church churchfamily, family,ororanyone anyone hehe meets—his meets—his desire desire to to uplift, inspire, and encourage will always be his goal.

Close is uplift, uplift,inspire, inspire,and andencourage encourage will will always always bebe hishis goal. goal.

Close Close is is Marvin’s life lesson album and the title track is on heavy Marvin’s Marvin’slife lifelesson lessonalbum albumand andthe thetitle titletrack track is is onon heavy heavy rotation because we need to hear ititagain and again.

Marvin rotation rotation because because wewe need need toto hear hear again it again and and again. again.

Marvin Marvin declares, “In this season, people need to understand that declares, declares,“In “Inthis thisseason, season,people peopleneed needto to understand understand that that even though we go through situations, it’s not because of even eventhough thoughwewegogothrough throughsituations, situations, it’sit’s not not because because of of God forsaking us.

He uses life challenges to ensure we are God God forsaking forsaking us.us.

He He uses uses life life challenges challenges to to ensure ensure wewe areare prepared for what He is about to walk us into.

I want to prepared preparedfor forwhat whatHe Heis isabout abouttotowalk walkusus into. into.

I want I want to to encourage people.

You’re closer now than ever before.” encourage encouragepeople. people.You’re You’recloser closer now now than than ever ever before.” before.” thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Sheila Oliver Fundraiser

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who’s who in African American political circles gathered at the Renaissance Hotel in Elizabeth, NJ to honor the New Jersey candidate for Lieutenant-Governor, Assemblywoman Sheila Oliver on October 27, 2017 days before the election.

Sheila Oliver having fun with a Madea impersonator

L–R: NJ Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, Sheila Oliver, and Jeanie LaRue Photos: Karen Waters

Organizers and supporters for New Jersey candidate Sheila Oliver for Lieutenant-Governor

L–R: Event organizer Kim Nesbitt-Good with Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and Assemblywoman Cleopatra G. Tucker

Newark Baptist Ministers Welcome NYC Clergy Leaders

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Rev. Joe D. McClain, Greater Bethel B.C., Newark, NJ and Rev. Dr. J. G. McCann, St. Luke B.C., Newark, NJ www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photos: Raymond Hagans

he Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater Newark and Vicinity recently hosted The Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater New York & Vicinity (BMCGNY&V) at Newark’s Mt. Olive BC where Rev. Andre Milteer is pastor. The keynote sermon was delivered by Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, pastor of Mt. Olivet BC in Harlem and president-elect of BMCGNY&V.

L–R Standing: Rev. Dr. Edgar W. Howard, Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Rev. Ali Bryant and Rev. Robert Morrast. Seated: L–R Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis; Rev. Geraldine L. Harris; and Rev. Roy Jones, president of Newark Conference.

November 2017 The Positive Community

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Website

Dizzy Gillespie turns 100

54

The Positive Community November 2017

Photos by Debi B

www.thepositivecommunity.com

20th Annual Praise Dance Celebration First Baptist Church Of Crown Heights Photos: Lem Peterkin

L–R: Tracey McFarlin and Easter Tyler accepting a token of appreciate from Rev Darlyn G. Bloodsaw

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he theme “Guiding Our Feet to Worship and Serve” captured the essence of the 20th annual praise dance celebration of the First Baptist Church of Crown Heights, Brooklyn, The Dance Ministry consists of God’s Angels, Friends In Christ, and the Women of Substance and is under the spiritual guidance of Deacon Esther Tyler and Sister Tracey McFarlin.

The celebration features dance ministries from the metropolitan area, some who have participated for years and others who joined the celebration for the first time.

The processional with an array of colorful garments of praise was an awesome sight.

First Baptist Of Crown Height Dance Ministries

Reel Sisters Celebrate Photo: Seitu Oronde

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eel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series — the first Brooklynbased festival to showcase films produced, directed, and written by women of color — turned 20 in October and marked the milestone with screenings and events at venues in Brooklyn and Harlem.

On October 21 and 22, Reel Sisters showcased more than 30 films at AMC Magic Johnson 9 in Harlem and the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Brooklyn. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Actress Phyllis Yvonne Stickney (The Tale of Four); Michelle Materre, founder of Creatively Speaking; Carolyn A. Butts, founder of Reel Sisters Film Festival; Marcia Pendelton, founder of Walk Tall Girl Productions; and Tracy Heather Strain, the director of Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart chatting at the clips and conversation event celebrating Lorraine Hansberry on October 21 at Magic Johnson Theater. Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart is a new documentary on Ms. Hansberry's life as an activist and artist. The film will air on PBS on January 19, 2018.

November 2017 The Positive Community

55

MWANDIKAJI MWANDIKAJI K. K. MWANAFUNZI MWANAFUNZI THE THE WAY WAY AHEAD AHEAD

A Quest for Better Homes East East Brooklyn Brooklyn Congregations Congregations (EBC) (EBC) Presses Presses for for Improved Improved Public Public Housing Housing More More and and Senior Senior Housing Housing

T

housands housands of of people people organized organized by

by East East Brooklyn Brooklyn Congregations Congregations (EBC) (EBC) and and the the Industrial Industrial Areas Areas Foundation Foundation (IAF) (IAF) rallied rallied in in the the rain rain at at City City Hall Hall Park Park in in New NewYork YorkCity Cityon onColumbus ColumbusDay Dayto tourge urgeNew NewYork YorkCity CityMayor Mayor Bill Bill de de Blasio Blasio and and the the New New York York City City government government in in general general to to improve improve conditions conditions in in public public housing housing and and to to increase increase safe safe and and affordable affordable multi-unit multi-unit housing housing for for senior senior citizens. citizens.

My My adult adult son son and and II attended attended that that rally rally but but arrived arrived aa little little late. late. As As we we exited exited the the subway, subway, II was was unsure unsure whether whether we we had had gotten gotten off off at at the the right right station. station. But But II was was sure sure as as soon soon as as we we emerged emerged onto onto the the street street because because II could could hear hear the the podium podium speaker speaker and and the the supportive supportive crowd crowd from from more more than than aa block block away. away. Reportedly, Reportedly, 6,000 6,000 people people attended attended the the rally. rally.

Reportedly, Reportedly, more more people people participated participated in in the the rally rally than than witwitnessed nessed the the Columbus Columbus Day Day Parade Parade in in person. person.

As As we we approached approached the the rally rally site, site, II saw saw the the northern northern segsegment ment of of aa large large and and orderly orderly crowd. crowd. II also also observed observed aa contincontingent gent of of courteous courteous and and polite polite police police officers officers directing directing the the continually continually arriving arriving participants participants to to available available standing standing areas areas on on the the sidewalks sidewalks behind behind movable movable metal metal barricades. barricades. The The police police also also monitored monitored similar similar barriers barriers situated situated in in the the street, street, which which apparently apparently protected protected arriving, arriving, moving, moving, and and stationary stationary rally rally participants participants from from potentially potentially errant errant street street traffic. traffic.

The Therally rallyparticipants participantsthat thatIIobserved observedwere wereneither neithermarchmarching ing nor, nor, typically, typically, holding holding signs. signs. Instead, Instead, they they showed showed their their support support for for the the cause cause by by enthusiastically enthusiastically applauding applauding and and cheering cheeringsalient salientpoints pointsmade madeby bythe thepersons personswho whospoke spokefrom from the the podium. podium. The The central central speaker speaker appeared appeared to to be be Rev. Rev. David David K. K. Brawley, Brawley, who who chairs chairs EBC EBC and and isis the the pastor pastor of of St. St. Paul Paul Community Community Baptist Baptist Church Church in in Brooklyn’s Brooklyn’s East East New New York York neighborhood. neighborhood. Other Other speakers speakers included included other other clergy clergy and and supportive supportive elected elected officials. officials.

From From the the latter latter decades decades of of the the 20th 20th century century through through the the present, present, EBC EBC has has actively actively advocated advocated for for new new housing, housing, improved improvedhousing, housing,positive positiverelationships relationshipsbetween betweenpolice policeand and citizens, citizens, and and other other issues issues relevant relevant to to Brooklyn Brooklyn neighborneighborhoods hoods such such as as Brownsville Brownsville and and East East New New York.

York. During During the the same same period, period, IAF IAF has has advocated advocated for for similar similar improvement improvement in in more more geographic geographic areas, areas, within within and and beyond beyond New New York York City.

City.

During Duringthe the1970s 1970swhen whenfires fireswere werefamously famouslyburning burningdown down prewar prewarapartment apartmentbuildings buildingsin inthe theSouth SouthBronx, Bronx,similar similarfires fires

56 The The Positive Positive Community Community November November2017 2017 56 November 2017

were were destroying destroying residential residential housing housing in in the the Brooklyn Brooklyn neighneighborhoods borhoods of of East East New New York York and and Brownsville.

Brownsville. Since Since then, then, through through EBC’s EBC’s “Nehemiah “Nehemiah Program,” Program,” many many attached attached ownerowneroccupied occupied homes homes and and some some new new multi-unit multi-unit apartment apartment buildbuildings ings have have replaced replaced destroyed destroyed buildings buildings and and vacant vacant lots lots in in East East New New York York and and Brownsville.

Brownsville.

In In recent recent years, years, many many predominantly predominantly white white middle-class middle-class New New Yorkers Yorkers have have embraced embraced the the concept concept of of “gentrification” “gentrification” through through which which they they see see themselves themselves as as doing doing something something pospositive itive by by moving moving into into lower-income lower-income neighborhoods, neighborhoods, renovatrenovating ing or or developing developing new new housing housing for for themselves, themselves, and and replacreplacing, ing, even even evicting evicting black black and and Hispanic Hispanic populations populations who who remain. remain.

In In my my view, view, gentrification gentrification parallels parallels the the thinking thinking and and actions actions of of European-descended European-descended Western Western Hemisphere Hemisphere colonies colonies and and nations nations during during the the 15th 15th through through 19th 19th cencenturies, turies, who who thought thought that that they they were were making making the the Americas Americas betbetter ter by by conquering conquering and and expelling expelling Native Native Americans.

Americans.

EBC’s EBC’s housing housing programs programs have have helped helped people people most most in in need need by by facilitating facilitating apartment apartment and and building building repairs repairs and and other other help help for for public public housing housing residents, residents, bringing bringing about about quality quality multifamily multifamily housing housing for for senior senior citizens citizens and and facilitatfacilitating ing single-family single-family homeowner-occupancy homeowner-occupancy for for families families and and couples couples who who might might never never otherwise otherwise achieve achieve such. such.

Additionally, Additionally, by by putting putting the the Gospel Gospel into into action, action, EBC’s EBC’s member member churches churches have have rescued rescued drug drug addicts addicts and and turned turned around around the the personal personal value value systems systems of of drug drug pushers, pushers, robbers, robbers, and andmurderers murderersby byintroducing introducingthem themto toChrist.

Christ.EBC EBCchurches churches have have also also improved improved police/community police/community relations relations by, by, among among other other means, means, organizing organizing and and facilitating facilitating one-on-one one-on-one converconversations sations between between policemen policemen and and church church members. members.

The The November November 9th 9th rally rally reportedly reportedly centered centered on on urging urging New New York’s York’s mayor mayor to to “build “build 15,000 15,000 new new units units of of affordable affordable senior senior housing housing on on underutilized underutilized NYCHA NYCHA land land or or other other citycityowned owned vacant vacant lots, lots, and and free free up up as as many many units units in in NYCHA NYCHA to to provide provide housing housing for for up up to to 50,000 50,000 more more individuals individuals on on the the NYCHA NYCHA waitlist waitlist or or in in shelters.” shelters.”

Hopefully, Hopefully,Mayor Mayorde deBlasio Blasioand andthe theNew NewYork YorkCity Citygoverngovernment, ment,in ingeneral, general,will willact actpositively positivelyand andconjunctively conjunctivelyto tofacilfacilitate itate the the housing housing improvements improvements currently currently being being advocated advocated by

by EBC EBC and and its its affiliated affiliated church-based church-based organizations. organizations.

thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

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In the Community

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FUNERAL HOME

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REASONABLE At PERRY FUNERAL HOME EvEry FamIly Is aFForDED ThE samE CourTEous, DIGNIFIED, aND sympaThETIC uNDErsTaNDING

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GOOD GOOD NEWS NEWS FROM FROM THE THE CHURCH CHURCH AND AND COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com November November 2017 2017

The The Last Word

Vol. Vol. 17, 17,No. No.1010

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

Hope Hope

BY BYR.L. R.L.WITTER WITTER

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Sales Sales Angela Angela Ridenour Ridenour Adrian Adrian Council, Council, Jr. Jr. NGSNGS Communications, Communications, Inc.Inc. Satori Satori MPR MPR Marc Marc Williams Williams Contributing Contributing Writers Writers Mwandikaji Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi K. Mwanafunzi g.r. g.r. mattox mattox Patricia Patricia Baldwin Baldwin Rev.Rev. Theresa Theresa Nance Nance Glenda Glenda Cadogan Cadogan Helene Helene FoxFox Rev.Rev. Dr. Dr. Joanne Joanne Noel Noel Photographers Photographers BobBob Gore Gore WaliWali A. Muhammad A. Muhammad Seitu Seitu Oronde Oronde Rev.Rev. Dr. Dr. William William L. Watkins, L. Watkins, Jr. Jr. Darryl Darryl HallHall Vincent Vincent Bryant Bryant Hubert Hubert Williams Williams Brian Brian Branch Branch Price Price Karen Karen Waters Waters ArtArt Direction Direction & Layout & Layout Penguin Penguin Design Design Group Group Martin Martin Maishman Maishman Production Production Assistant Assistant AprilApril Davis Davis Intern Intern Esther Esther Paul Paul TheThe Positive Positive Community Community Corp.

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AnyAny opinions opinions expressed expressed herein herein are are solely solely thethe opinions opinions of the of the writer(s) writer(s) TM,TM, Positive Positive Community Community and and not necessarily not necessarily those those of The of The TM TM TheThe Positive Positive Community Community its management its management or staff. or staff. reserves reserves the the rightright to retain to retain all materials all materials andand does does notnot assume assume reponsibility reponsibility for unsolicited for unsolicited materials. materials.

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for for the the

Holidays

t’st’sthe thebest best of of times times and and the the worst ofoftimes times. .. .. .That’s That’s how how II often often feel asas we we near near the the end end of of the the year.

While While I I relish relish the the opportunity opportunity to reflect reflectupon uponall allof ofthe the year’s year’s blessings, blessings, I Ioften oftenfind find myself myself becoming becoming critical critical ofofwhat what I I have have yet yet to to accomplish accomplish or what whatI Imight mighthave have done done differently differently in hindsight. hindsight.

The Theholidays holidays are are often often bittersweet bittersweet asaswell. well.I Ican’t can’talways alwaysget get home home for for the holidays holidaystotospend spend them them with with my my family.ly.Yeah, Yeah,turkey turkey isis pretty pretty much much turkey regardless regardlessof ofwhere whereyou you celebrate, celebrate, but I Imiss missmy mymother’s mother’s corn corn pudding pudding and sweet sweet potato potato soufflé, soufflé, which which my my husband band affectionately affectionately calls calls “yamallow.” “yamallow.”

No Noone oneelse elsemakes makesititquite quite the the way way she does, does,and anddon’t don’tget getme me started started on on her apple applepie! pie!No Nomatter matter how how old old II get or how howmany manyholiday holidaymeals meals II make make at my house, house,“home “homefor forthe the holidays” holidays” always means meansbeing beingwith with mom, mom, regardless regardless of where where she she might might be be spending spending it.

Mom’s Mom’s going going to to an an aunt, aunt, uncle, uncle, or cousin’s cousin’s house? house? Then Then that’s that’s where where I want wanttotobe! be!

As As Thanksgiving Thanksgiving approached approached this year, year,I Ifound foundmyself myself with with much much to be thankful thankful for, for, but but lacking lacking excitement excitement for forthe theholiday. holiday. While While II feel feel an an abundance danceofofgratitude gratitude for for our our marriage, marriage, home, home, health, health, friends, friends, family, family, and every everyother otherblessing blessing God God has has seen seen fit totogrant grant us, us, I’m I’m still still struggling struggling with the thedisappointment disappointmentand and discomfort discomfort of the thecurrent current political political and and social social situations tionsininour ourcountry. country.IIcan can feel feel my my face begin begin toto grimace grimace at at the the mention mention of the thecurrent currentU.S. U.S.president president and and itit takes nearly nearlyall allofofmy mystrength strength and and effort effort to tolerate tolerate his his supporters supporters when when avoidance ancehas hasfailed. failed.

My My brain brain isis exhausted exhausted from from the daily dailystream streamof ofnews news of of sexual sexual harassharassment, ment, Twitter Twitter rants, rants, racial racial injustice, injustice, and andsenseless senseless violence. violence. II find find myself pondering pondering the the phrase phrase “ignorance “ignorance is

bliss” and and wondering wondering ifif burying buryingmy my head in in the the sand sand might mightincrease increasemy my joy, or perhaps perhaps just justpreserve preservemy mysanisanity.

With With Christmas Christmas fast fast approaching, approaching, That Wonderful Wonderful Husband Husbandhas hasbegun begun asking, asking, “What “What would would you you like like for for Christmas?”

Christmas?” As As II look look around around the the comfortable comfortable home home God’s God’s blessings blessings have provided provided for for us, us, there’s there’s not notaa single material material thing thing I’d I’dlike. like.IfIfanyanything, I’d I’d take take aa plane plane ticket ticketsosowe we could both both spend spendsome sometime timewith withour our parents parents and and enjoy enjoy the the nostalgia nostalgiaand and serenity serenity of of reminiscing reminiscing on ondays dayspast past when itit seemed seemed to tobe beaasimpler simplertime. time.

But it won’t won’t happen happenthis thisyear. year.

Maybe Maybe I’d I’d like likeaatime timemachine machinesosoI I could travel travel back back to toaaholiday holidayseason season when my my grandparents grandparentswere werestill stillalive alive and I’d I’d play play with with my my cousins cousins while while the adults adults laughed, laughed, told told stories stories ofof their youth, youth, and and moved movedthe thecouch couchtoto the wall wall so so everyone everyonecould coulddance dancetotoaa Michael Michael Jackson Jackson song. song.

Perhaps Perhaps things things seemed seemed simpler simpler then because because technology technology hadn’t hadn’tyet yet begun to to dominate dominateour ourlives. lives.We Westill still called and and spoke spoke to to people, people, rather rather than sending sending aa text textor oremail; email;and andwe we enjoyed enjoyed being being in in the themoment momentrather rather than staging staging food food photos photos or orselfies. selfies.

Shoot, Shoot, film film was was expensive expensive AND ANDyou you had to to pay pay to to develop develop it. it. We Wedidn’t didn’t take pictures pictures all all willy-nilly. willy-nilly.

Possibly, Possibly, the the thing thing that’s that’s really really missing missing for for me me isis hope. hope. Back Backthen, then, we were were integrating integrating and and gaining gaining rights; now now we’re we’reholding holdingon onfor fordear dear life against against constant constantattempts attemptstotowrest wrest progress progress and and basic basic rights rights from from our our grasp. Of Of course course II found foundsome somehope hope exactly exactly where where II knew knew itit would would be. be.

Jeremiah Jeremiah 29:11 29:11 reminds remindsus usthat thatGod God has plans plans for for us, us, “plans “plans to to give giveyou you hope and and aa future.” future.” Thank ThankGod Godfor for hope! Thank Thank God Godfor foreverything, everything,the the reason reason for for the the season. season. thepositivecommunity.com thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

the hip hop nutcracker with special guest mc kurtis blow dec 15

an evening with savion glover Thu, Dec 7 @ 7PM The Tony-winning tap master brings a thrilling dance production sure to blow the lid off the season!

charlie wilson new year’s eve celebration Sun, Dec 31 @ 8PM Ring in the New Year with Billboard R&B chart-topper Charlie Wilson.

joe 112 next total Thu, Dec 7 @ 8PM Award winner Joe, appearing with special guests 112, Next and Total.

mary mary & tasha cobbs Sat, Dec 9 @ 10AM, 2PM & 6PM Sun, Dec 10 @ 10AM & 2PM Treat the family to the live tour of Nickelodeon’s hit animated series, PAW Patrol!

Fri, Jan 12 @ 8PM Rev. Martin Luther King Celebration An evening with three of the most inspiring women in gospel music.

© 2017 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. © 2017 Viacom.

neil degrasse tyson Wed, Dec 13 @ 8PM The famed astrophysicist returns to present his new show Search for Life in the Universe.

forces of nature dance company Sat, Dec 16 @ 2PM & 7:30PM Celebrate Kwanzaa with this daring theatrical dance company and special guest poets Ntozake Shange and Sonia Sanchez.

the nutcracker Sat, Dec 16 @ 3PM State Ballet of Russia This company of more than 65 dancers arrives with its staging of the holiday classic, set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

tavis smiley death of a king Sat, Jan 27 @ 8PM Tavis Smiley presents this live, multi-media version of his New York Times bestseller, Death of a King.

@NJPAC • 1.888.GO.NJPAC • njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561 One Center Street, Newark, NJ nov_NJPAC_ad_positive_community.indd 1

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