September 2013

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

September 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

™ $2.95

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

We Marched!

I Was Trayvon Martin

FREE SCREENING for the community sponsored by PRAHD

RSVP

by September 27

We welcome you to attend the screening of this historic documentary film paying homage to the only all-Hispanic segregated unit in U.S. Army history.

Saturday, October 5, 2013 | 2 p.m.

Location: Perth Amboy High School | 300 Eagle Ave, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 The Borinqueneers will be presented by the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development, Inc. (PRAHD) in Perth Amboy, NJ. Live taping and interviews with Producer NoemĂ­ Figueroa Soulet, 65th Infantry Regiment Veterans, and military historian Col. Gilberto Villahermosa (USA, Ret.). There will Q&A session and an archival photo exhibit.

To RSVP call (973) 345-9837 or email JRAcevedo@borinqueneers.com.

Visit us at www.borinqueneers.com or www.prahd.org for more information.

**Seating is Limited** Screening Host: Steve Adubato, Ph.D. Emmy Award-winning Anchor, Thirteen/WNET (PBS)

TOGETHER, WE CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH. For the next 30 days, we’ll be right by your side paying tribute to the histories, cultures and contributions of the Latin American community.

Let’s celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the music, culture and people who make New York's neighborhoods so special.

Because healthy living is happy living.

And together, we can stay healthy, get well and live better.

For more information visit emblemhealth.com

September 2013

CONTENTS COVER STORY: IMPRESSIONS FROM THE MARCH

34 Features

HEALTH ................................................114 EDUCATION ..........................................24

Back to School in Style. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Maintaining a Healthy Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 ECC Honors Yamba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Returning Prayer to School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 An Invitation to Greatness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Sean Tyree: Artist on the Rise . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Montclair Jazz Fest Swings! . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 I Was Trayvon Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Wedding Bells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Trilogy:aoc presents Robeson . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rev. Misick Helms Old First in Newark . . . . . 55 Althea Gibson Forever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

CULTURE ..............................................42

&also inside Publisher’s Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 My View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Fitness Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Gospel Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Cover Photo: U.S. Representative John Lewis, the only living speaker from the 1963 March on Washington

The Way Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 The Last Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

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GREAT

R C OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

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

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

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

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

St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor

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

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

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

St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Ben Monroe

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

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

St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor

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

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

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

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

First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor

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

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

First Bethel Baptist Church, Newark, NJ H. Grady James III, Pastor

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

Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev. Alfonzo Williams, Sr., Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ. Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Black Ministers Council of NJ Rev. Reginald T. Jackson, Exec. Director Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor

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

First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Friendship Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. James A. Kilgore, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President

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

Grace & Restoration Fellowship, Paterson, NJ Jerry Wilder, Sr., Pastor

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

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

Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Ron Christian, Pastor Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Cornerstone Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Lawrence E. Aker, III, Pastor Ebenezer B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Jovan Troy Davis, M.Div.

Greater New Hope Missionary B.C., NYC Rev. Joan J. Brightharp, Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Drek E. Broomes, President & CEO It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter

Mount Zion B.C., S. Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Robert L. Curry, Pastor Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Gerald Lamont Thomas, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Duane E. Cooper St. John Baptist Church Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor

The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Thessalonia Worship Center, Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Pastor

World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

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

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

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

ADRIAN COUNCIL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

“…I paid 300 years or more/of slave-driving sweat/ with welts on my back This is my country…”

“This is My Country” performed by the Impressions Music and Lyrics: Curtis Mayfield

African American History and Cultural Literacy in the Grand Jubilee Year of 2013 ecently, I traveled to Charlotte North Carolina to attend the 133rd Annual Session of the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. I was invited by the New York and New Jersey conventions to share remarks about our magazine, cultural literacy and efforts to promote the 150th anniversary year of The Great Emancipation. After addressing the Empire Missionary Baptist Convention’s annual delegate’s luncheon, I experienced a flood of thoughts and emotions.

You see, North Carolina is my ancestral homeland. Both parents hail from this state (White Oak and Cary). They migrated north, met in Harlem in the late 40s, married and raised a family of eight boys in Amityville, Long Island. My father became a successful, self-taught entrepreneur.

In 2008 the Council family gathered for a reunion at a small church on a farm in White Oak to celebrate the 350th year of the Council name. Family historians have traced our history in this land back to 1658. A Scottish planter, Sloane Councill, was granted land rights in Virginia Territory by England’s Queen Victoria. Our journey in the New World began with the arrival of a slave-owner and four slaves (two male and two female) from Africa’s Gold Coast (West Africa).

What a mighty blessing to stand today and share the news of our great American heritage in this Grand Jubilee Year of Freedom! Indeed, We Have Come this Far by Faith. My family’s story is the story of many. It’s the story of a unique people and culture—African Americans, decedents of The Great Emancipation—1863.

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A Grand Celebration On December 31st 2012, you may recall that hundreds of churches throughout the New York/New Jersey region participated in our special Watch Night Initiative (see www.thepositivecommunity.com Nov. issue pg.10) to welcome 2013, the Grand Jubilee year of Emancipation. Churches joined in a lifeaffirming exercise in spiritual and cultural unity that included a reading from the “Cultural Narrative” by a young person in each congregation. It was the culmination of The Positive Community’s 18 month Great Countdown to Freedom campaign.

The “March on Washington” 50th anniversary observances have passed. So, as the curtain closes on this landmark year, let there now be at least one major Emancipation commemorative event in America. A grand celebration that

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The Positive Community September 2013

showcases the very best of our collective gifts and talents in music, dance and the performing arts; A reunion of a people and their ideals as we prepare for the challenges and triumphs of the future-the next 150 years of freedom!

The whole story must be told and taught to the children.

The responsibility of teaching our American history ultimately falls upon our community’s shoulders: the home; our churches and among all forward thinking institutions that touch the lives of young people. We must never forget that Martin Luther King, Jr. and his associates chose to March on Washington in 1963 to commemorate the centennial (100) anniversary year of Emancipation.

An Emancipating Experience The November 16 Grand Jubilee Concert and Gala at historic Newark Symphony Hall will raise funds to support cultural literacy initiatives. We invite the participation of our national and local clergy leaders to commit themselves and their membership to the success of this mighty commemorative event. All communities are invited to witness the brilliance and pageantry of this most righteous, noble and patriotic affair, a milestone achievement in our collective journey…Save the date!

Special acknowledgments to Brooklyn pastor, Rev. Dennis Dillion, publisher of Christian Times and servant leader of “Freedom 2013” Movement for mobilizing and inspiring thousands in the in NYC area and beyond with the mission of Emancipation awareness and community empowerment. We also extend thanks to Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood senior pastor of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Brooklyn and pastor Emeritus of St. Paul Community Baptist Church in Brooklyn for the vision to create MAAFA Suite: A Healing Journey. This dramatic presentation, now in its 19th year, chronicles the journey of our people from Africa through the Middle Passage; from slavery to freedom. The production runs 4 nights in September and always sells-out (see ad on page 43). Rev. David K. Brawley, senior pastor of St. Paul Community BC has expanded on the tradition to create a touring company. The production is now available to churches, schools and communities everywhere! The MAAFA Suite is without question, an emancipating experience for all! www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Positive Community’s

Great Countdown to Freedom

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

Below is a cultural narrative—our story—an oral history, a brief presentation of our deep collective experience that dates back to before this nation’s founding: The Cultural Narrative African Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa as slaves in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years).

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

One hundred years later, in August, 1963, at the height of the civil rights movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial as he led hundreds of thousands to a “March on Washington” seeking an end to discrimination and Jim Crow segregation in the South.

It was a demand for full citizenship rights for the people in what has been called “The Second Emancipation.”

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

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

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An Extraordinary History Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation and triumph that we must never forget! This is the story that we must tell our children and be ever remembered. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation, must tell our story to each other reminding ourselves, over and over again of the great, noble struggle and sacrifices of those who came before us.

This is our story, our cultural narrative, our Grand Jubilee and springboard into a great and prosperous future—a vision of hope and progress; health and wholeness; peace and goodwill!

2013—the Grand Jubilee Year of the Emancipation Proclamation!

Author: Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor: Jean Nash Wells

Community Partner:

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

BISHOP REGINALD T. JACKSON GUEST EDITORIAL

Bishop Reginal T. Jackson, African Methodist Episcopal Church

Affordable Care Act he signature achievement of the Obama Administration, the Affordable Care Act, seeks to ensure that every American has healthcare. It will benefit more than 50 million Americans who presently do not have healthcare. Our community—the African American community—will benefit most from the Affordable Care Act because African Americans are the largest group in the country without healthcare.

I am concerned because most African Americans don’t know the specifics of the Affordable Care Act and how it benefits us. We have not had town hall meetings or received information about the details of the Affordable Care Act, and the majority of information in the media is from those opposed to the Affordable Care Act and people who already have healthcare.

Registration for the Affordable Care Act begins October 1st and the deadline for registration is March 31st of next year. Registration is critically important, especially for African Americans. There is an ongoing effort by some in Congress to repeal or not fund the Affordable Care Act, which some also call “Obamacare.”

If African Americans, the largest group of uninsured in the country, do not register, it will give credibility to those who oppose the Affordable Care Act and will be a huge embarrassment to President Obama.

In a recent meeting, the President stated that he believed the best way to register African Americans is through the African American church. Every week, African Americans gather in our churches, and those who don’t attend church have family members or friends who do. I want to urge every pastor to have their churches serve as registration centers for the Affordable Care Act. Beginning the second Sunday in October and each Sunday thereafter until March, we can provide an opportunity for members and their families to register for the Affordable Care Act. Members can register online by going to www.healthcare.gov or pastors can print paper forms, distribute them to members, then collect them and send them in in bulk.

This effort is critical to those who do not have healthcare. The African American church has always been in

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September 2013

the forefront of efforts to help the African American community, and it should continue to do it now. If we do not seize this opportunity to ensure that our people receive healthcare, when will we do it? Let’s not let this opportunity pass.

This effort is critical to those who do not have healthcare. The African American church has always been in the forefront of efforts to help the African American community, and it should continue to do it now. If we do not seize this opportunity to ensure that our people receive healthcare, when will we do it? www.thepositivecommunity.com

“We are passionate about getting you the best care.”

George Ingram, Horizon NJ Health

Horizon NJ Health is a compassionate and caring organization with employees who clearly understand the needs of the people they serve in New Jersey. We’re here to guide and assist you to get the health care you and your family needs.

If you are on Medicaid, NJ FamilyCare, or are uninsured, Horizon NJ Health can help.

To enroll, visit HorizonNJHealth.com or call 877-765-4325 (TDD/TTY: 1-800-654-5505).

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon® name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2013 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

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

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

Changing of the Guard

he September Song” says in part, “It’s a long, long way, from May to December. And the days grow short, when you reach November.”

So, here we are yet again in September. School starts.

Leaves on the trees begin to change colors. The U.S. Senate will have a changing of the guard when Newark Mayor Cory Booker is sworn into office in 2014. Yeah, I think it’s gonna’ be like that.

It’s his time whether or not he’s supported by the Lautenberg family. There may be different opinions on his stewardship in the city of Newark, but I still think he’s going to be the one.

You don’t have to like the mayor of the largest city in New Jersey, but you have to, in my judgment, admire his tenacity, his ability to extract monies from the deeppocketed folks and his refusal to be daunted by the obstacles that surely lay before him.

Before the primary, Booker made an appearance at the St. Luke Baptist Church in Paterson. Pastor Kenneth Clayton hosted the afternoon gathering held exclusively for local pastors, where Booker discussed his accomplishments as a two-term mayor and also talked about his dreams as the proposed senator from New Jersey.

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The Positive Community September 2013

If he does not win, rest assured corporate America will make room for this young black man who has demonstrated that he is comfortable in the halls of academia, the board rooms of Wall Street and the bowels of the ‘hood.

You won’t be embarrassed when he’s on assignment.

The haters —like it or not— may be looking at another black man on his way to making his home and his bed at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue one of these days. He’s got the goods. Yes, he does.

Obviously, he’s as flawed as the rest of us. And, his detractors will probably find legitimate reasons why folks should think twice before casting their vote for Oprah’s friend and Gale’s buddy.

He will, however, overcome the naysayers. He will transcend ethnicity. He will bode well on Capitol Hill. He will succeed. He will be forceful. He will be charismatic.

He will be dogmatic. He will be tenacious. He will be charming. He will be vocal. He will not flinch, flounder or forget that all politics is local.

He will be the next U.S. Senator of the United States of America from the great state of New Jersey. Get ready, get ready, get ready! www.thepositivecommunity.com



NJ State Conference of the NAACP Presents

October 11, 2013 Doors Open At 6:00pm

Bally’s Hotel Casino, Atlantic City, NJ

Inspirational Choir Ensemble

Vashawn Mitchell

James Fortune For more information please email: info@njstateconvention.org

Thursday  Early Registration  Mayor’s Welcome to

 Atlantic City Reception @

Kelsey’s Supper Club Kentucky & Pacific Avenues

Friday  Registration Vendors

Press Conference

Opening Plenary Session WIN Town Hall Meeting Gospel Extravaganza

Membership Welcome Reception

Saturday Registration

Kick-Off Breakfast Health Fair Plenary Session

Legislative Luncheon Workshops Gala Award Banquet

Sunday Continental Breakfast Worship Service

Closing Plenary Session

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

Joined by James R. Gonzalez, MPH, FACHE, president and CEO, University Hospital, and Karen Cherins, president, National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), Essex Section, a young girl proudly displays her new matching pink book bag and coat.

By Carl G. Chase Program Development Analyst Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences

Back to School – In Style University Hospital and Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences Schools Help Elementary Students Prepare for Class

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ome 575 Essex County elementary students chose clothing, backpacks and supplies at the recent “Back 2 School Store” set up in the gymnasium of a West Orange synagogue. While the children were busy shopping, their parents enjoyed health screenings, education and information about health and child wellbeing from University Hospital and Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences in Newark—all free of charge thanks to the generosity of the National Council of Jewish Women’s Essex Section (NCJW/ Essex). The children, aided by over 300 volunteers from throughout the country, assembled brand new outfits complete with hat, scarf and gloves, undergarments, personal care items and backpacks of their own choosing and stocked up on school and art supplies from paper to pencil sharpeners.

“Watching the looks of pure joy and excitement on the children’s faces truly put everything into perspective for me,” noted Karen Cherins, president of NCJW/Essex.

Elizabeth “Yama” Castillo, a grandmother among some

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The Positive Community September 2013

20 Newarkers from Ironbound Community Corp. (ICC), who brought two grandsons, some ICC members and their children said she believed the children received, “…every thing they need for the school year.”

As a significant component of the Gaelen Family Resource Center for the fifth consecutive year, University Hospital and Rutgers professionals were present in full force providing health screenings and information. University Hospital’s Evette Estwick, LPN; Molly Jacob, APN; and Karla Wheeler-Sulliman, a medical technician, conducted diabetes and cholesterol screenings while Anthony Phillips, RN, conducted blood pressure screenings. University Hospital Cerebrovascular Program director Andrea Hidalgo, MD, provided stroke education.

“I definitely see a tremendous amount of passion within NCJW, and its members really focus on helping children start the school year off well,” remarked James R. Gonzalez, MPH, FACHE, president and CEO, University Hospital. “University Hospital considers it a privilege to be a participant.”

Continued on next page www.thepositivecommunity.com

A-Team A-Team Physical Physical Therapy Therapy An outpatient An outpatient orthopedic orthopedic PT practice PT practice Photos: Tiffany L. Smith, University Hospital

111 Northfield 111 Northfield Ave, Ave, SuiteSuite 205, 205, WestWest Orange, Orange, NJ 07052 NJ 07052 Tel: 973.736.1090 Tel: 973.736.1090 • Fax:• Fax: 973.736.1092 973.736.1092 www.ateamphysicaltherapynj.com www.ateamphysicaltherapynj.com

Come Come visit visit West West Orange’s Orange’s newest newest PT office PT office Christian Christian Atexide, Atexide, PT, DPT PT, DPT 40QA01330900 40QA01330900

  

State  licensed State licensed physicalphysical therapist therapist Over  20Over years 20ofyears clinical of clinical experience experience Experienced  Experienced in treating in treating all typesalloftypes orthopedic of orthopedic injures injures

We offer: We offer:

L-R: Rutgers School of Nursing students Lesego Mogodiri, Aderin & post Pre operative & post operative care care Physter Andrews,EstherPre and Janalee Chiappa helped with health screenings  One  onOne one on care one care



Christian Christian Atexide, Atexide, PT, PT,

Anthony Phillips, RN, performs blood pressure screenings



ManualManual therapytherapy

MemberMember of of

Rutgers School of Nursing students, led by Associate Barbara Churchill, a certified ophthalmic technician.  Back  school/ Back school/ Body mechanics Body mechanics trainingtraining Dr. Mahnaz Fatahzadeh and Dr. Evan Spivack from Professor Cindy Sickora, DNP, RN, director of the Jor Community ACL  Injury ACLPrevention Injury Prevention Program dan and Harris HealthProgram Center and other Rutgers School of Dental Medicine provided oral health about Ask and about our Free ourScreens Free Screens education, demonstrations and information along with community programs, also gave Ask diabetes blood presdental students Joshua Bryan andvehicle, Michael Combs. sureWe screenings.

Nearby, the school’s big blue New Jeraccept We accept all Insurance: all Insurance: Medicare, Medicare, HorizonHorizon BC/BS,BC/BS, Oxford,Oxford, United United HC, Cigna, HC, Cigna, Americhoice, Americhoice, Motor vehicle, Motor Worker’s Worker’s Comp Comp The various volunteers from Rutgers Central Adminsey Children’s Health Project van, a clinic on wheels that provides comprehensive health services to children and istration and University Hospital were led by University Hospital manager of communications Tiffany L. Smith adults, treated parents in private.

The Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Institute of who was assisted by Rutgers Biomedical and Health SciOphthalmology and Visual Science led by Dr. Ben Szirth, ences program development analyst Carl Chase and Uniprovided eye disease screenings with assistance from versity Hospital staff assistant Sharon Sneed.

A-Team A-Team Physical Physical Therapy Therapy An outpatient An outpatient orthopedic orthopedic PT practice PT practice 111 111 Northfield Ave, Ave, SuiteSuite 205, 205, WestWest Orange, Orange, NJ 07052 NJ 07052 99 Northfield Tel: 973.736.1090 Tel: 973.736.1090 • Fax:• Fax: 973.736.1092 973.736.1092 www.ateamphysicaltherapynj.com www.ateamphysicaltherapynj.com

Come Come visit visit West West Orange’s Orange’s newest newest PT office PT office Christian Christian Atexide, Atexide, PT, DPT PT, DPT 40QA01330900 40QA01330900

  

State  licensed State licensed physicalphysical therapist therapist Over  20Over years 20ofyears clinical of clinical experience experience Experienced  Experienced in treating in treating all typesalloftypes orthopedic of orthopedic injures injures

We offer: We offer:

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 One  onOne one on care one care Manual  Manual therapytherapy Back  school/ Back school/ Body mechanics Body mechanics trainingtraining ACL  Injury ACLPrevention Injury Prevention Program Program Pre & post Pre operative & post operative care care

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September 2013 The Positive Community

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Community Health Agency Celebrates National Health Center Week

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he Neighborhood Health Services Corporation (NHSC), one of 20 federally qualified health centers in New Jersey, is dedicated to providing cost-effective primary health care services for the residents of Plainfield, Elizabeth, Newton, Phillipsburg and surrounding communities.

National Health Center Week is celebrated annually in August and this year, events took place across the country from August 11–17, 2013. For the third consecutive year, NHSC at the request of the New Jersey Primary Care Association (NJPCA), hosted the Statewide National Health Center Week Kick-Off celebration, which was held on Monday, August 12, 2013 at NHSC’s corporate location in Plainfield, New Jersey.

NHSC has celebrated National Health Center Week each year for the past 23 years, hosting community events at four of the six site locations. The Kick-Off and Pediatric Health Fair were held on August 12 and 13 respectively, at NHC-Plainfield. The Health Fair at NHC Elizabeth was held on August 14; at NHC-Newton on August 15; and at Shappell Park in Phillipsburg, NJ on August 17.

NHSC was joined by many of its community partners, including Horizon NJ Health, Healthfirst NJ, United Healthcare, Amerigroup, Walgreens and the City of Elizabeth Fire Department.

“There are approximately 900,000 NJ residents who currently are uninsured,” explained Rudine Smith, NHSC president and CEO. “When the Affordable Care Act takes effect, these residents will have the opportunity to enroll in a health insurance plan and be able to provide the necessary coverage for their children.

NHSC and other federally qualified health centers in the State are preparing to serve these patients through grant-funded initiatives.”

L–R: Paulette Hussey Plainfield Neighborhood Center , Rudine Smith, NHSC President and CEO, Lesley Morris, NJ Primary Care and Joan Atkins

L–R: United Health Care President Scott Waulters and Adrian Council, Jr. TPC L–R: Horizon NJ Health, United Health Care and Amerigroup mascots

L–R: Carissa Lawson of NJN News, Maria Tapia-Burch and Aviva Woog HFNJ Community Outreach Managers Sonia McNaughton (r), director Marketing and Product Innovation, AmeriHealth with colleauge

Photos: Karen Waters

Luz Ramirez, Marino Moronta, La-Kisa Hines, Charlotte Kinsey

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Horizon NJ Health team, L–R: Laticia Bailey, Tyesha Pichardo, Dr. Mark Calderon, Evelyn Riccio, Jenny Cruz, Alex Correa, Andre Gammon, and William Mitchell for Horizon NJ Health www.thepositivecommunity.com

Maintain, Don't Gain: A New Way To Fight Obesity Gary Bennett

Courtesy: Duke University

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rograms aimed at helping obese black women lose weight have not had the same success as programs for black men and white men and women. But new research from Duke University has found that a successful alternative could be a "maintain, don’t gain� approach.

The study, compared changes in weight and risk for diabetes, heart disease or stroke among 194 premenopausal black women, aged 25-44 recruited from Piedmont Health's nonprofit community health centers in central North Carolina.

For the study, half of the participants -- 97 women -- were randomly placed in a primary care-based intervention program called Shape, while the other 97 received usual care from their physicians, generally weight-loss counseling.

The intervention program used software built by Duke researchers that personalized the intervention for each woman. Each woman received an individualized set of behavior-change goals for diet and physical activity.

They tracked how well they were doing each week via automated phone calls, and had a personal health coach and a gym membership.

After 12 months, the intervention group stabilized their weight, while participants in the usual care group continued to gain weight. Sixty-two percent of intervention participants were at or below their weight at the onset of the program, compared to 45 percent of usualcare participants. After 18 months, intervention participants still maintained their weight while the usual care group continued to gain weight.

"Many people go to great lengths to lose weight when their doctor recommends it. They may try a series of diets or join a gym or undergo really complex medical regimens. The complexity of these treatments can make it difficult for many to lose a sufficient amount of weight," said lead author Gary Bennett, an associate professor of psychology and neuroscience and global health at Duke who studies obesity prevention.

"Our approach was different. We simply asked our patients to maintain their weight," Bennett said. "By maintaining their current weight, these patients can reduce their likelihood of experiencing health problems later on in life."

The study, funded by a grant from the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, cited

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other research showing that overweight and slightly obese premenopausal black women face far lower risks for many chronic diseases than do obese whites and other racial groups.

But by ages 40-59, black women have more than twice the prevalence of class 2 (moderate) obesity and three times the rate of class 3 (extreme) obesity than white women, the study said. This combination of rapid premenopausal weight gain and extreme obesity contributes to disproportionate chronic disease risk among black women, researchers said.

Preventing weight gain could reduce the odds of developing a host of health problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke and some cancers, the authors said.

Continued on page 21

Preventing weight gain could reduce the odds of developing a host of health problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke and some cancers

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Arriving daily.

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Harlem Week 5K Run Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run & NYC Family Health Walk-A-Thon for Peace in Our Communities

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ver 6,000 runners and walkers took to the streets of Harlem on Saturday, August 24, 2013 for the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and NY Road Runners Percy E. Sutton 5K Run and NYC Family Health Walk for Peace in Our Communities. Starting at West 135th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue, racers ran along picturesque Harlem streets taking in the community’s various historic sights. Mikael Tesfaye Kahsay, 25, who clocked in at 14:49 minutes led all runners with Catherine Beck, 26, emerging as the first female runner

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Text and photos

by Seitu Oronde

to cross the finish line at 17:15 minutes.

WBLS FM radio personalities Dr. Bob Lee and Deja Vu were also on hand leading a crowd of cheering revelers.

Immediately following the race, civic leaders, social organizations, church members, family and friends gathered together for the New York City Family Health Walk for Peace in Our Communities. Hosted by Fox 5 TV personality Antwon Lewis, the event was a collective outcry to bring awareness to and combat gun violence, bullying and domestic violence impacting our communities nationwide.

Congressman Charles Rangel, NYC Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, City Council members Robert Jackson and Leticia James encouraged the community to take a stand against violence of any kind. Community leaders like Jackie Rowe-Adams, co-founder of Harlem Mothers S.A.V.E; Rev. Jacques DeGraff, associate pastor, Canaan Baptist Church; Imam Talib Abdur Rashid and others led the crowd in numerous chants and positive mantras reinforcing the message of and commitment to Peace in Our Communities as the walk began. The day concluded with a mini concert featuring performances by a variety of local acts.

Themed “Harlem: Where the World Meets the World,” this year’s HARLEM WEEK events celebrated Harlem’s global presence and international legacy honoring the 50th anniversary of Jamaica’s independence; the 100th anniversaries of South Africa’s African National Congress and Japan’s Sakura Festival. Activities and events included musical salutes to radio legend Hal Jackson, Reggae Icon Bob Marley, TV pioneer Don Cornelius, South African musical legend Miriam Makeba and more, plus The Historic Black College Fair & Expo, Summer In The City, The International Auto Show, NYC Children’s Festival, The HARLEM WEEK/Imagenation Outdoor Film Festival, Harlem Jr Tennis Tournament and much more. www.thepositivecommunity.com

MAINTAIN, DON'T GAIN

Your neighborhood.

Continued from page 18

A "maintain, don't gain" approach could be particularly effective for this group for the following reasons: • Compared to white women, black women are typically more satisfied with their weight and face fewer social pressures to lose weight, Bennett said.

Consequently, they may be particularly receptive to intervention messages about maintaining their weight.

• Preventing weight gain is less intense than trying

to lose it, so this approach could be achieved

more easily.

Our doctors.

"It’s true that there are some health risks for these overweight and slightly obese women," Bennett said.

"However, these health risks increase dramatically as women continue to gain weight, usually 2 to 4 pounds, year after year."

"We could reduce these health risks if women simply maintained their current weight," Bennett said. "Fortunately, it's much easier to maintain weight than it is to lose it. We think this 'maintain, don’t gain' approach can help some women reduce their risk of obesity-related chronic disease."

Go to www.thepositivecommunity.com to see video clip of Dr. Bennett discussing the study.

Your neighborhood just got better.

Primary and specialty care doctors committed to keeping you healthier. To make it easier for you, we welcome walk-ins and same-day appointments, and we have Saturday and evening hours. We participate in most insurance plans including most Medicaid-managed plans.

• Adult Primary Care • Cardiology • Diabetes Management

Clinical Services • Endocrinology • Gastroenterology • Nephrology

• Pulmonary Medicine • Women’s Health

1827 Madison Avenue and 119th Street To schedule an appointment, please call 212.722.1441.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about UMPA, please call 212.523.UMPA (8672) or visit www.UMPA.com.

Saturday, October 5, 2013 Franklin High School • 500 Elizabeth Avenue

Between Weston & New Brunswick Rd., Somerset, NJ 08873

FOR INFO AND TO REGISTER ONLINE: WWW.SNCNJ.ORG

5K Breast Cancer Race/Walk

Sisters Network

Central New Jersey TEAM AWARDS 1st • 2nd • 3rd Place Awards

Live Entertainment!

Children Activities!

Vendors • Vendors • Vendors (Vendor Form, Mail-in Application Online)

Registration: $30.00 Seniors (62+): $20.00 Ages 8-19: $15.00 www.thepositivecommunity.com

Join us as we run/walk for our lives and for the lives of others!

USATF Certified Race For more information, Telephone: 732-246-8300 • FAX: 732-246-3535 September 2013 The Positive Community

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KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR

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

Arise in the Fall off course from important routines such as attending church, going to the gym, and focusing on our health. But thank God we can correct our courses, get back on track, and incorporate new healthy habits. All we have to do is arise and fall back into our routines.

Oh, you don't have a routine? I want to offer this challenge, which includes a great reward for you. I would like you to take these next three months of autumn and pursue wellness with all diligence.

1. First, I want to challenge you to visit with your physician and ask him/her all the questions that you need to ask concerning your health.

2. Secondly, find an exercise program that suits your needs. Perhaps there is a walking program within your community. Join a local gym or YMCA, get involved with water aerobics at your local senior center, hire a fitness coach to help you get started (Yes you may email me at Kahlil@itiswellchurch.com and I will give you some suggestions). or me, autumn is a time to celebrate the end of the summer. That's right, celebrate! Although I enjoy the long summer days and beautiful summer nights (especially in New York), I look forward to autumn and falling back into my daily routines. Daily routines such as walking my children to the bus stop each morning, serving my community, and getting back on track with my fitness regimen! These sacred routines are often put on hiatus by family reunions, church barbecues, and much needed rest.

But now, it is time to arise, focus, and fall back into wellness.

The man at the pool of Bethesda (John Chapter 5) was about to receive an opportunity to be made well. He had been lying by the pool for 38 years and could not get up. It was not until Christ gave him the command to rise that he was able to pursue wholeness and experience healing.

The apathy of summer often makes us feel like the man lying by the pool, unable to move. His inability to move was an infirmity, but ours, unfortunately, is lack of motivation or plain old-fashioned laziness.

Perhaps you can relate. Summer has a way of taking us

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3. Thirdly, discipline yourself to eat healthy and watch your portions for the next three months.

Ok, I can hear you asking, “Where's my reward?” The reward for your three-month pursuit of wellness during autumn 2013 is guilt-free indulgence of good food during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Christ gave the man at the pool of Bethesda an opportunity to be made well, but it was contingent upon him rising, taking up his bed and walking. And the bible says, “And immediately the man was made well...”

I want to encourage you to get on track and fall back into your daily routines. The autumn season is a wonderful time to pursue physical fitness and health. Arise in the fall.

Amen!

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

iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

aFFoRDaBle BeneFitS? Then this is a Book oF Revelation.

Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement benefits for your employees is well within your reach.

In fact, it’s quite affordable.

Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 86%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too.

To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it now at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

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

Education T e a ch i n g , L e a r n i n g , M a k i n g a D i ff e r e n c e

Essex County College Unveils A. Zachary Yamba Building

By Jean Nash Wells

Main campus building named for President Emeritus

L-R: Essex County College Interim President Gale E. Gibson, ECC President Emeritus A. Zachary Yamba and his wife, Trish Morris-Yamba The West Market Street façade of the newly named A. Zachary Yamba Building at Essex County College

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he Essex County College (ECC) main campus’ edifice in the University Heights section of Newark, NJ has simply been known as the “megastructure” since opening its doors in 1976. On August 26, 2013 the building finally got its rightful name. Henceforth it will be called the A. Zachary Yamba Building, in honor of the beloved President Emeritus. The side of the building facing West Market Street is emblazoned with signage signifying the name change.

The ceremony honoring Dr. Yamba kicked-off the college’s 45th anniversary year. Dr. Yamba retired in 2010 after serving as president for 30 years, earning

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him the distinction as the longest serving leader of a New Jersey college or university. The 74-year-old educator joined the faculty when ECC opened its doors at 31 Clinton Street in Newark in 1968. He served as director of Humanities and dean of Faculty prior to his appointment as president.

“I’m indeed overwhelmed and humbled,” Dr. Yamba told the assembled audience of family, friends and colleagues on the occasion of the formal naming ceremony. “Words can’t express or capture my emotions today. I share this tribute with all the visionaries for this college. Today we’re celebrating 45 years of Essex www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dr. A. Zachary Yamba

County College serving as a beacon of hope for the residents of the county.”

ECC Interim President Gale E. Gibson spoke warmly of her predecessor. “This dedication is long overdue and well deserved,” she said. “Strong leaders must always look to the past in order to guide the future. Dr. Yamba built the foundation of this great college. I am proud to have him as a mentor, to seek his counsel and to learn from his vast experience of serving the students of Essex County College and the greater community.”

“Whenever we think of Essex County College, we have to think of A. Zachary Yamba,”declared Bishop

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Reginald T. Jackson, a member and former chair of the College’s Board of Trustees. “He has built lives, not built a building.”

Under Dr. Yamba’s leadership, the college experienced stability and steady growth. During his tenure, Yamba oversaw significant expansion in both the scope of operations and in the campus itself. Physical additions to the Newark campus include the Physical Education Building with a Child Development Center, the Center for Technology, the Center for Health Sciences, and the Clara E. Dasher Student Center. He also established the West Essex campus in West Caldwell and managed the transition of the Essex County College Police Academy in Cedar Grove from the county to ECC. In the resolution by the Board of Trustees honoring him with the title President Emeritus, Yamba was recognized as a “…trailblazing educator whose exceptional leadership and vision as president transformed the college into the vibrant and highly accomplished institution that it is today.”

A former two-term president of the County Community College Presidents Association of New Jersey, Dr. Yamba is a member of the Board of Regents Emeriti of Seton Hall University. Following his retirement he has joined boards of the 200 Club of Essex County, the New Community Corporation in Newark, and ASA College in New York.

September 2013 The Positive Community

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New Brunswick Theological Seminary Groundbreaking Dr. Bernadette Glover, associate professor of Preaching and Worship, New Brunswick Theological Seminary

Photos: C R. Dwyer - INAH Photography

BELOW: L–R: Rev. Caffie Risher, associate minister at Community Baptist Church in Englewood NJ; Dr. Beth Tanner, professor of Old Testament, New Brunswick Theological Seminary; Rev. Dr. Danielle Brown, pastor of Church Life, Cathedral International, Perth Amboy NJ

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ounded in 1784, the New Brunswick Theological Seminary got its start in New York City. In 1810 the school moved to New Brunswick and in 1856 the Seminary moved to its present site, at 17 Seminary Place on a property that became known as “Holy Hill.”

On a stunning final day of July, nearly 200 members of the press and the public attended the ground breaking ceremony for a new seminary on the corner of College Avenue and Seminary Place, where a new, beautifully landscaped campus will be built and NBTS will embark on a new future.

The new building and campus were made possible by the sale of half of the land where the original seminary sits, the key component of the $300 million College Avenue Redevelopment Project managed by the Development Corporation of New Brunswick (DEVCO) in partnership with Rutgers University and the Seminary.

“Thank you all for coming as we're building a new campus on this old property on which we have resided for over 150 years,” NBTS President Gregg Mast greeted guests assembled in the historic Victorian Gardner A. Sage Library.

New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill led the remarks: “New Brunswick is honored and proud to be the home of the Seminary since the early 1800s. Like New Brunswick, the Seminary is diverse and attempts to address the needs and opportunities of a very modern, vibrant and certainly ever-changing world.”

Breaking ground for a new seminary are L–R: Chris Palladino, Robin Suydam, Jon Hanson, Gregg Mast, Ho Sung Lim, Lateya Fox, Vernon Linzi, Mayor Cahill, Sandra Fisher, Richard Edwards, John Coakley.

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

Prayer Back in Schools Movement

By Jean Nash Wells

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n two landmark cases, Engle v. Vitale, (1962) and Abington School District v. Schempp, (1963), the Supreme Court of the United States decided that public schools, which are supported by taxes, cannot constitutionally lead students in any sort of prayer. To do so, the court said, would reflect an endorsement of one religion over another (or of any religion over none), which is a violation of the First Amendment Establishment Clause.

In response to the violence that is plaguing communities throughout the country, both in and out of schools, from mass shootings to gang violence and street crime, groups are forming around the country

in what is being called the “Prayer Back in Schools Movement.” One such group, spearheaded by Rev. Dr. Edward D. Harper, pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Lakewood, NJ, held a panel discussion on August 19, 2013 in the Bell Auditorium of the church.

Panel participants were: Dr. Carl Fink, president of the Lakewood Board of Education; Rev. Dr. Gary Brandon, pastor of Mt. Pisgah in Asbury Park; Pastor David Orellana of Lakewood; Pastor Raquel Salguero of Lakewood; Barbara Cutter of Lakewood; Adrian Council of The Positive Community; James Harris, the NJ State president of the NAACP; Pastor Glenn Wilson, president of U.N.I.T.E.; Pastor Bernard Oates of Neptune; Annette Kearney, Secretary of U.N.I.T.E.; Rev. Dr. Joseph Woods, general secretary of the General Baptist Convention New Jersey. Rev. Harper served as moderator.

A diverse group of more than 25 ministers and pastors representing most major religions were in attendance.

Some attendees expressed a desire to enlist families in in

Your neighborhood.

Our doctors.

iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

aFFoRDaBle BeneFitS?

neighborhood just got better.

cialty care doctors committed to keeping you healthier. To r you, we welcome walk-ins and same-day appointments, urday and evening hours. We participate in most insurance most Medicaid-managed plans.

are

ement

Then this is a Book oF Revelation.

Clinical Services • Endocrinology • Gastroenterology • Nephrology

Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement • Pulmonary Medicine for your employees is well within your reach.

• Women’s benefits Health In fact, it’s quite affordable.

1827 Madison Avenue and 119th Street schedule an appointment, please call 212.722.1441.

Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 86%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too.

To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it now at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

tment or learn more about UMPA, PA (8672) or visit www.UMPA.com.

28

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

The Positive Community September 2013

www.thepositivecommunity.com

the movement. Pastor Glenn Wilson suggested that pastors should encourage their school age children to become involved with the permission of their parents and attend future meetings of the Prayer Back in Schools Movement.

Proponents of school prayer believe the Supreme Court misinterpreted the Establishment Clause of the Constitution, and point to other traditions practiced by the government such as the employment of Congressional chaplains, government recognition of holidays with religious significance such as Christmas or the proclamation of National Days of Prayer. They believe that prayer in school will help to build character and provide students with the concept that there is a power greater than themselves, which they can rely on for comfort and help, leading to increased morality and ethics and the reduction of violence, bullying and other ills.

It should be noted that what was struck down by the law is organized prayer, or any form of religious exercise sponsored or endorsed by the school. Students are allowed to pray and read religious texts, so long as they do not disrupt other students. They may do this at any time, including before, during, and after school hours.

School clubs that are religious in nature are still allowed to exist and worship freely. A ruling in Westside Community Board of Education v. Mergens, (1990) determined that as long as any school clubs are allowed to exist, religious clubs must be allowed to exist; students join clubs freely and voluntarily, and are free to leave at any time.

I am in Trainin g for a Gre at Care er Shawn - Class of ’15 Physical Education Major Track Team

Small College. Big Dreams.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Oct. 20 th 10am - 2pm Power ful programs and oppor tunities for learning t h r o u g h a m a z i n g i n t e r n s h i p s i n N e w Yo r k C i t y.

Minutes from World Trade Center

2 3 4 5 A C F N R

sfc.edu

The Newark School of Theology Offering Advanced Classes in Theology Since 1997 College Completion and Certificate Programs Academic Nonsectarian Classes • Affordable Tuition and Payment Plans Member of National College Credit • Recommendation Service

A Liberal Arts Approach To Theology Two Park Place, Newark, NJ 07102 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 831 Newark, NJ 07101

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Call Now 973-297-0505 www.newarkschooloftheology.org

September 2013 The Positive Community

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Girls: 5 Tips to Stay Safe at College Courtesy: Just Yell Fire.org

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arties – A great social life is part of the college experience but remember, never put down your beverage and come back to it. Date rape drugs are prevalent on the college scene and are impossible to detect without a test kit. Go to parties as a group, watch out for each other, and leave together. Alcohol is involved in the majority of university sexual assaults and a nice guy can quickly turn into a different and violent person when he is under the influence.

ATMs and Parking Lots – Cash machines and parking lots are frequent stops in college. Unfortunately the bad guys see ATMs in less-traveled areas as a hunting ground; ditto dark parking lots, the site of a high percentage of campus assaults. Make a very-public ATM your cash source and either avoid poorly lighted or deserted parking lots or go with a friend. For predator avoidance there’s safety in numbers. Try to avoid parking next to vans, or if one has parked next to you, go back and ask a security guard to escort you to your car.

Hall Cruising – A big trend in on-campus violence comes from hall cruising, where innocent appearing predators gain access to dorms, sororities, or residence halls by trusting residents. They then cruise the halls looking for unlocked doors to find their victim. Put a stop to this type of violence by always locking your dorm room door and never giving strangers access to your building.

Campus Shuttle – Late night library or social visits are part of college life but coming home you are often

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The Positive Community September 2013

alone and while campuses seem like islands of safety, they are open to outsiders from every direction. Either walk with friends or take advantage of the campus shuttle when you are crossing campus at night.

View Just Yell Fire: Campus Life film online (no cost) – The Just Yell Fire nonprofit, created by and for girls and young women, produced a film that anyone can watch online. It raises awareness of the many dangers girls face at college and offers some avoidance strategies.

Also included is a Dating Bill of Rights to remind girls they have rights in relationships, e.g. to report violence against them, to have friends outside of a relationship… to help stop dating abuse. Finally, there are some street fighting get away tips from expert martial artists that any girl can use to get away from someone twice their size, e.g. eye gouge, whipslap an ear.

Here is the URL for the free online video that has been lauded by universities, law enforcement, teachers, parents, students, and shelters across the United States: www.justyellfire.org About Just Yell Fire: Just Yell Fire combats violence against girls and young women. It has grown into a 1.8 million girl revolution across 66 countries and is the basis of stay-safe programs at universities (including MIT), high schools (from Chenai, India to Nashville, TN), and shelters everywhere. More information: www.justyellfire.org www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Our mission is to enhance the capacity of adult persons, to enrich their lives by improving their skills in financial matters, managing their health care issues, discovering housing opportunities for needy persons, and providing expert assistance for the completion of paperwork

An Adult Learning and Community Centre in Orange, NJ

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he Centre at Park Avenue continues to make a mark in the City of Orange and surrounding communities by providing educational classes and fellowship.

New and returning attendees have benefited from the numerous and diverse subject matter presented at The Centre. Curriculum has included Quick-books, Excel training programs, finance for the individual, making final plans and many other diverse topics of need and interest.

Our program assists people through the learning of needed life skills in pursuit of achieving personal goals and improved employment.

Empowerment breakfasts have been another winner for us by drawing together other non-profit and related organizations on a monthly basis. These fellowship sessions provide a pertinent round table topic for discussion while providing showcase opportunity for each attendee. Proudly we note the success of our empowerment sessions.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Volunteers have been another dynamic development at The Centre.

Talented individuals have stepped forward to give of their time and knowledge toward helping our program and organization. These unsung heroes have returned to us after experiencing a program or other related activity. We at The Centre are often amazed by strong interest from visitors to return or to recommend our facility. Service organizations have developed interest to meet within The Centre’s walls.

These include prominent national sorority and fraternity organizations.

Over the summer our Centre participated in the Mayors Office of Employment and Training (MOET) for Orange youth. The MOET Program, as it is known, provides Orange youth and young adults a constructive summer work experience.

Our Centre provided the location for the MOET’s two-day orientation process as it kicked off each day with a dynamic presentation from Mayor

Dwayne Warren. The Centre greatly benefited from the orientation and its’ MOET participant who brought needed social media skills and enthusiasm for our outreach program, which was truly a wonderful opportunity for our organization.

Please try to develop an interest to find out more about The Centre at Park Avenue. You can look up our website or even stop in for a quick visit to find out about our rich history and recent growth on Park Avenue in the City of Orange. You might even be so moved as to lend financial support, which is needed to continue our work. The Centre at Park Avenue is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization. Contributions can be directly sent to us or through PayPal on our website, www.centreparkave.org.

Looking forward to seeing you soon.

September 2013 The Positive Community

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College with a personal touch

NYSCAS

A Div ision of

Touro

College

assOCiate’s anD BaChelOr’s DeGrees

• Business Management and Administration • Information Technology • Human Services • Psychology • Education • Biology • Social Sciences • Paralegal Studies • Digital Multimedia Design • Liberal Arts and Sciences • and more inteGrateD hOnOrs traCKs Undergraduate/Osteopathic Medicine Undergraduate/Pharmacy

Other PrOfessiOnal OPPOrtunities • Pre-Law • Pre-Medical • Pre-Dental

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Manhattan:

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Brooklyn: 1870 Stillwell Avenue, Admissions Office

Queens:

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718.520.5107 x109 Forest Hills

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Touro College is an equal opportunity institution

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A Million Dollars...

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hat do you think of when you hear the figure “a million dollars”? Some people might imagine a winning lottery ticket, others the grand prize on a TV game show. But what if we were to suggest “a college education” as something even more likely to translate into money, along with all of its other benefits? Well, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the difference in median income between someone holding only a high school diploma and someone holding a Bachelor’s degree could translate into more than one million dollars in the course of a working life. Food for thought, we think you’ll agree.

The question is, “Where should I go to earn a degree?” Our answer?

Touro College’s New York School of Career and Applied Studies (NYSCAS). We call NYSCAS “The College with the Personal Touch,” and here’s why: From the moment you arrive at one of our sites, you’ll be treated more like a family member than simply another prospective applicant. Our admissions counselors and academic advisors will work with you one-on-one to show you the best ways to get started with your college education, and our financial aid counselors will help you www.thepositivecommunity.com

navigate the process of paying for it.

And we won’t stop there! As a NYSCAS student, from the application process through graduation you’ll be guided every step of the way by a faculty and staff dedicated to keeping you on the road to success.

At NYSCAS you’ll find programs and majors designed to prepare you for jobs in the in-demand fields – now and in the near future – in the modern American workplace. For instance, according to the BLS the Human Services professions will experience a 28% increase in demand for personnel during the 10year period that began in 2010. That will likely mean a lot of new jobs!

At NYSCAS, the Human Services major includes concentrations in areas such as Addiction Services, Adult and Family Services, Gerontological Services, and Human Services Administration. Business Management and Administration, Information Technology, Psychology, Education, Digital Multimedia Design, and Paralegal Studies are just some of the other degree or certificate programs at NYSCAS. If you work hard, your NYSCAS diploma has the potential to mean a great deal in an increasingly-competitive job market – either right away or as a foundation for more advanced study.

There are lots of other benefits to being a student at NYSCAS. For example, with 7 sites throughout New York City, each one close to public transportation, we can make your college experience more convenient.

Morning, afternoon, evening — even weekend — classes permit you to work your class schedule around other commitments such as a fulltime job or being a full-time parent.

It’s very easy to get the ball rolling on a new career and a new pathway in life. Just drop into any of our sites and sit down with one of our admissions counselors. They are eager to answer your questions about careers, majors, programs, application procedures, and anything else that concerns you about being a college student. You can also call us at (718) 265-6534 ext. 1003 and make an appointment at your convenience to get the information you need.

Think about the rewards: a chance at a career with real possibilities, a job that will give you satisfaction every day. And don’t forget the potential of that million dollars over a lifetime. Not a bad deal – so take the plunge! Come see us and join the NYSCAS family today.

Touro College is an equal opportunity institution.

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The March on Washington My Impressions

BY MADINAH NAJLA JAMES n a sunny Saturday, August 24, 2013 in Washington DC, history was made once more as the world commemorated the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, I was among the tens of thousands of people from all walks of life and ethnic backgrounds who assembled on the National Mall to commemorate the historic August 1963 day that mobilized a call to action for economic justice and equality through civil rights. The now famous “I Have a Dream” speech that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave in 1963 seemed to resonate with attendees as the common theme of the day focused on restoring and preserving “The Dream” and believing in it again. Speakers throughout the day evoked the universal theme declaring the fight for justice and equality and against racism, poverty, mass incarceration, racial profiling, gun violence, voting rights, the Jim Crow legacy, lack of jobs and economic disenfranchisement— many of the same issues that spearheaded the movement for change in legislation and societal behavior in 1963.

Though I wasn’t even born in 1963, I was particularly intrigued by the striking differences between now and then, based primarily on archival footage I have viewed and my experiences in 2013. The 1963 march occurred

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at the height of the civil rights era, and it seemed that there was a militant stance and more concern regarding women and children attending for fear of violence or retaliation because people were standing up and fighting to have a voice in America. At this march, there seemed to be more participants in family units—fathers, mothers and little children.

The entire social media/real time documentation of the 2013 march also represented a significant difference. As I was walking on the National Mall, I was actually viewing people as they recorded footage of the event on their iPads, tablets, iPhones and digital cameras. It was amazing to see how people were able to take the fresh footage and/or images and immediately display them to others around the world who weren’t able to be there, allowing them to experience the day in real time from far away. As I observed this, it definitely gave me a sense of societal inclusiveness as anyone, no matter where they were located, could be part of this historic event and ultimately, the new generational call to action that was emerging there.

The 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington proved to be quite impactful for me. I feel as if I have been privy to moments that will prove to be pivotal in

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history and the anniversary march is part of my catalog of moments. From participating in the Million Man March in Washington, DC in 1995 as a college student, to being able to see President Barack Obama sworn in as the first black President of the United States in 2009 as an adult, these special moments have proven to be instrumental in my life and I’m certain for many others in my generation. I feel as if I have been part of something that will lead to greater progress for minorities in American society.

For every generation, what we remember and how we envision our lives is different, and in many ways the same and yet, being part of this particular event in this space of time, shows me how far we have come as a society. The diversity represented at the 2013 march showed me that people of every race and ethnicity are still fighting for

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some form of equality for their heritage. Yet, in the words of Reverend Al Sharpton at this year’s march, “Old America has passed away and we see an America where we value equality, justice and fairness.”

Another aspect of the march resonated with me.

People came together aligned with a positive purpose.

So many times African Americans are categorized as a group of people pitted against one another and part of the problem, not the solution. That myth was completely dispelled for me. I was again shown that we can come together and stand our ground, act cohesively to make an impact and facilitate change.

And so, the journey to equality for all races continues.

It will be quite amazing to see how the next generation steps up and what type of progress and change the next 50 years will bring.

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Tough Love Leads CCNY Senior from Lagos to White House Nigerian Upbringing Inspires Oluwadamisi Atanda to Excel

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orn in Brooklyn, but raised in Nigeria, Oluwadamisi “Kay”Atanda, a senior at The City College of New York, spent most of the summer as a legislative affairs intern in the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. In the fall, he will intern at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations.

Since transferring in fall 2012 to CCNY from Queensborough Community College (where he was in the CUNY Honors Program), Kay, a political science major and public policy minor finished the school year with a 3.80 GPA. A Colin L. Powell Community Engagement Fellow, the Springfield Gardens, Queens resident is racking up honors and awards at a remarkable clip: • Pearson National Prize for Higher Education (2012) • Josephine de Karman Fellowship (2013-2014), for community service and scholastic achievement, respectively.

• 2012-14 New York Needs You Fellowship, awarded

to high-potential first-generation New York City

college students with the tenacity, ambition and

desire to enhance their lives and their communities; • 2012 CUNY Vice Chancellor's Excellence in

Leadership Award; • CUNY Student Leader of the Year Award (2012),

for outstanding contributions to the University.

“Students like Kay make our jobs very easy,” said Rafal Szczurowski, CCNY adjunct professor of international studies and political science, who had Kay as a student in his global perspective course. “From spirited conversations to his passionate advocacy for human rights and civil liberties, there's a fire about him that is rare and refreshing.”

Kay credits an act of tough love by his parents for his fire, intellectual zeal and boundless energy.

“I was about four years old when my parents decided to relocate the family to Nigeria,” he explained from Washington. “My parents believed that in order for me to truly appreciate the opportunities in the United States, it was important to experience life in another part of the world, outside of the U.S.”

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The next 13 years in Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, were an eye-opening experience. With a population of nearly eight million, like the rest of the country, the former capital is starkly defined by small pockets of wealth amid searing poverty.

“I saw firsthand things people here only read about in the papers or see on TV,” he recalled. “I went to school with people who had no access to electricity or water and it definitely motivated me to work hard.”

Kay returned home in 2010, indebted to his family for the experience. “It's something I'm very grateful for. It gave me a new perspective on life and the way I see things.”

The experience also inspired him to make a difference and not just help the poor of Nigeria but those struggling in other communities. He founded YES (Youth Engaged Society), a nonprofit that serves as a resource for community service, scholarship and internship opportunities for students statewide.

“Public service is something I am passionate about and want to continue to do after I’m done with my degree and graduate work,” he said. “Maybe I'll run for city council or the U.S. Senate.”

His ultimate goal, however, is to head the United Nations. “I think the UN is a good tool through which I can influence positive change in many parts of the world including Africa and Nigeria,” he noted.

Kay’s next internship after his White House stint may provide good preparation for any future UN position. A finalist for the 2013 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship, he has been accepted into the competitive U.S. State Department Student Internship Program this fall. There he will intern in the Executive Office at the United States Mission to the United Nations in New York.

He will balance this internship with an independent study with Professor Szczurowski, where he will examine the United Nations, U.S. foreign policy and global security.

That's not to mention his previous internship experience on the successful 2012 congressional campaign of Grace Meng (D-NY), the first Asian-American member of Congress from New York; and, earlier, in the Queens District Office of New York State Assemblyman David I. Weprin. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Ramapo College of New Jersey Congratulates Newark Native and Alumnus

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amapo College of New Jersey congratulates Damien A. Conners ’06, who as Executive Director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference organized the recent 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington.

What began as a commemoration involving the SCLC and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, ended with the support of more than 90 organizations from around the world, and an appearance

by President Barack Obama.

Mr. Conners is a rising thought leader on intersecting issues related to religion, civil rights, politics and

gender. He bridges his scholarship and activism to develop balanced, community-based programs that serve the growing needs of the poor and middle class across America. A lecturer, activist, minister and writer, his most recent article, A Divided America: The Fierce Urgency of Working Together, Now!, is featured in the SCLC Magazine.

He has served nonprofit service organizations for 10 years. He served both in New Jersey and New York as a youth advocate and specialized instructor for the Sadie Nash Institute.

For the past three years he has worked as a teaching associate at Emory Uni-

versity’s Candler School of Theology and Department of Religion.

Mr. Conners received a B.A. in Political Science from Ramapo College of New Jersey, a Master of Divinity, with a concentration in Women’s Studies, from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Master of Theology with a focus in race, religion, gender and politics from Emory University.

He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. On Wednesday, October 9, Mr. Conners will return to Ramapo College and share his vision and experiences with students. We salute his achievements and leadership.

Learn in small classes.

Succeed in big ways.

With an average class size of 23, and a student–faculty ratio of 18:1, Ramapo College is the right size. Our students are able to build meaningful, close working relationships with faculty members through mentorship, collaboration, and research opportunities. Ramapo College offers over 40 undergraduate majors and 7 part-time graduate programs that prepare our students for a lifetime of success.

Learn more at: www.ramapo.edu/ admissions or 201-684-7300

505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ

Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as sixth in the Best Regional Universities North category for public institutions. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Featured in the Princeton Review’s “Best in the Northeast.”

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An Invitation to Greatness Graduation Speeches that Inspired

BY GLENDA CADOGAN n her commencement speech to the Harvard graduating class of 2013, Oprah Winfrey reflected upon her life and drew a colorful picture with the hope of inspiring the graduates to greatness. “I am clear that the purpose for which I came to this earth is to use TV—not be used by it—to illuminate the transcendent power of our better angels,” she said. “The key to life is to develop an internal emotional, moral GPS that will tell you where to go… because there is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life trying to move us in another direction.”

It comes as no surprise that the speech by the “queen of talk” was rated among one of five best of this graduation season. Among the others were speeches by actress Kerry Washington at her alma mater George Washington University and First Lady Michelle Obama at Eastern Kentucky University. Washington, with the same kind of quiet enthusiasm that has fans endearing her character Olivia Pope, earned her standing ovation with quotes such as: “You can follow someone else’s script, try to make choices that will make other people happy, avoid discomfort, do what is expected and copy the status quo. Or you can look at all that you have accomplished today and use it as fuel to venture forth and write your own story. If you do, amazing things will take shape.”

Michelle Obama also used her life as a teaching moment telling the graduates: “My four years in school gave me the confidence to know that if I could make it on a college campus, I could make it anywhere …make no mistake, you can go anywhere you choose. So be proud and never ever doubt yourself. Walk boldly on that road ahead wherever it takes you.”

For most of the graduates, they were sitting in their high school graduations four years ago and being encouraged to stay the course in college. In an effort to find out some of the “stories” graduating high school students received this year, we spoke to five college freshmen from the New York tri-state area. They spoke about the inspiration they embraced from their high school commencement speeches and are taking with them on their college journey.

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KIANNA WIRTS AGE: 17 HOME BASE: Bronx, NY HIGH SCHOOL: Bronx Early College Academy COLLEGE: Franklin & Marshall, Lancaster, Penn MAJOR: Mass Communications Kianna Wirts’ high school commencement address was delivered by John Barnes, a former principal of the school.

From his speech she was inspired to boldly climb the mountains in her life. “He told us that if we have come this far we could make it for four more years and then even further to achieve our career goals. ‘Don’t let anything stop you,’ he told us. This really resonated with me because I was discouraged by the lack of support I received from my family. With Principal Barnes’ words not just in my head but in my heart, I know that I can make it and that’s what I am going to do … I am going to make it.”

ELIJAH ADDERLEY HOME BASE: West Orange, NJ AGE: 17 HIGH SCHOOL: Montclair Kimberley Academy COLLEGE: New York University MAJOR: Business Management Elijah Adderley was inspired by the speech given by Ed Bozik. “The most inspirational thing he told us was that there is no key to college life. Everyone’s college experience is unique so there is no one piece of advice that fits all. ‘But approach our college life with open arms’ he told us. The next four years will be a mystery but that is not necessarily a bad thing. We will come across things we have never had to deal with before but just dive in head first.” Adderley is diving head first into his studies at NYU Stern School of Business.

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In an effort to find out some of the “stories” graduating high school students received this year, we spoke to five college freshmen from the New York tri-state area. They spoke about the inspiration they embraced from their high school commencement speeches and are taking with them on their college journey.

KYLE JEAN-PIERRE AGE: 17 HOME BASE: Brooklyn, NY HIGH SCHOOL: Pace High Manhattan COLLEGE: Baruch College MAJOR: Public Affairs

School,

Kyle Jean-Pierre remembers his high school commencement address by actor and comedian Charles Burks because it inspired him to work toward being a better contributor to society. “He emphasized how his generation did so much with so little that was available to them. Therefore, my generation could do so much more because we have so much more. This inspired me because firstly, it’s true; and secondly it made me realize how I have not fully used my tools.

With all that we have available to us, if we apply ourselves we can change the world. I am determined to make full use of my college degree.”

TAYLOR JAMES CAMPBELL AGE: 18 HOME BASE: Brooklyn, NY HIGH SCHOOL: Midwood High School COLLEGE: St. Francis College MAJOR: Health Promotions Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz took a page out of the book of Oprah Winfrey and Mrs. Obama in putting his life as a case study before the graduating class at Midwood High School. From this, Taylor James Campbell was inspired to be resolute even in the face of adversity. “He told us his life story about growing up in a family of eight and having to go to school every day and during the summer to get to where he is today. He encouraged us to be resilient because it is possible to get out of any predicament in which we may find ourselves. ‘Just don’t let anything stop you,’ he told us. And don’t let time slow us down but instead use it to our advantage. That’s what I plan to do.”

CAROLINE HUBBARD AGE: 18 HOME BASE: Stanford, CT HIGH SCHOOL: The King School COLLEGE: Harvard University MAJOR: English The retiring Academic Dean of her high school, Karin Wagner, was the commencement speaker at Caroline Hubbard’s graduation. “She stressed that being an adult means being accountable and responsible for yourself. But she also cautioned us not to get addicted to technology at the detriment of losing our interpersonal skills. Ultimately, how we interact with people and present ourselves on a daily basis is what matters most. Always remember the importance of communication and talking and do not become dehumanized by technology. To be a leader is to coexist with others in the world.”

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PARTNERING FOR OPPORTUNITIES

CUNY+CUCF MWBE Conference for Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprises Drew More Than 400 Participants

At the Plenary session opening the CUNY+CUCF MWBE Conference (L–R) Mario Crescenzo, Director of Purchasing for CUNY; Sandra Bookman, co-anchor ABC, Host “Here and Now”; Jeffrey Weinstein, director of Procurement Services, CUNY Office of Facilities, Planning, Construction and Management (FPCM); Matthew Sapienza, assoc. vice chancellor for Budget & Finance of CUNY; Iris Weinshall, vice chancellor (FPCM), executive director, CUCF; Robert Pignatello, senior VP for Finance & Administration, John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Keynote Speaker Carroll A. Thomas, associate administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration; Michelle Castro-Bent, chair of MWBE committee for CUNY+CUCF, associate chief of Contracts, Dept. Design, Construction & Management, CUCF; Alphonso B. David, deputy secretary for Civil Rights for the Governor of New York State.

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ore than 400 Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE) attended the City University of New York (CUNY) and the City University Construct Fund (CUCF) “Partnering for Opportunities Conference held recently at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. The Conference opened with a Plenary Session with Keynote Speakers Carroll A. Thomas, Associate Administrator, U.S. Department of Small Business Administration and Alphorns B. David, Deputy Secretary for Civil Rights for the Gov-

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ernor of New York State. In addition, luminaries and distinguished speakers were, Robert Pignatello, Sr. VP for Finance & Administration, John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Philip Berry, Vice Chairperson, CUNY Board of Trustees; Chairperson of CUCF Board of Trustee; Iris Weinshall, Vice Chancellor, Facilities Planning, Construction & Management, Matthew Sapienza, Assoc. Vice Chancellor for Budget & Finance of CUNY. The program was emceed by Sandra Bookman, Co-Anchor, ABCTV and host of “Here & Now” and

co-emceed by Mario Crescenzo, Director of Purchasing, CUNY. During the full-day Conference, participants took part in workshops, including How to Do Business with CUNY & CUCF; “Match-Maker” Session, where attendees met one-onone with CUNY colleges, CUCF, and other agencies and they visited a Marketplace of 24 CUNY colleges and affiliated programs, resource centers and professional organizations in construction with representatives to provide participants with information on procurement opportunities. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Bob Gore

Standing L–R: - Brother Dr. Louis Ray, VP of ABC Scholarship Ministry; Tyler M. Harper-Thomas; Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III; Jamal-Jumah T. Vinson; Kahil Khalid T. Vinson; Melvin Smith; Elijah M. Harper-Thomas; Zachery W. Thomas Osbourne; Justin D. Thomas and George E. Nunez.

Seated L–R: Sis. Jacqueline L. Redd, president, ABC Scholarship Ministry; Tasia E. Hawkins, Alexa J. Jordan and Mrs. Juste (sitting in for her daughter, Victoria E. Juste).

Abyssinian Scholarship Ministry

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he Scholarship Ministry of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem provides financial assistance to Abyssinian members who plan to attend a college or university to obtain an undergraduate degree.

8.5 x 5.5 Fall II_Layout 1 9/11/13 4:22 PM Page 3

A dozen of those who received scholarships this year stopped by the office of Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III for a photo op before they headed off for the next phase of their life’s journey.

Online Courses NOW at ECC. Your Education. Your Time.

Essex County College now offers 100% online courses, giving you more flexibility and convenience to work toward your degree.

Additional information is available by contacting Dr. Leigh Bello-de Castro at 973-877-3484 or bellodecastro@essex.edu

Fall II Classes begin September 20 Apply Today! www.essex.edu

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Culture M U S I C ,

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L I T E R AT U R E

Sean Tyree: Young Artist on the Rise

By R.L. WITTER

n July 13, 2013, the verdict in the George Zimmerman trial for the killing of Trayvon Martin polarized America. While some were shocked by the acquittal, others rejoiced and celebrated the verdict.

New Jersey’s Sean Tyree, a young artist and musician, did nothing. “I saw people ranting and raving on Facebook about Trayvon and I just needed to be still and listen,” explained Tyree over lunch at a New Brunswick eatery. “I wanted to actually do something— I didn’t want to be just one of those voices complaining. I wanted to express myself through my artwork but I just needed to be still and listen first.”

So Tyree listened and what he heard didn’t quite make sense at the time, but that didn’t matter to the former soccer star who grew up above an art studio and attended First Baptist Church in Franklin, NJ. “Something told me to go to Michael’s and buy a canvas,” Tyree recalled. “I looked at the biggest canvas they had and that same something told me, ‘It’s not big enough.’ At the time I didn’t know what I was going to do with this painting, but

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now I know that if I had taken the biggest canvas they had, it still wouldn’t have been big enough People wouldn’t have seen it.”

The painting he is talking about is a six-foot tall depiction of Trayvon Martin in his iconic hoodie, and where he took it was to the historic 50th Anniversary March on Washington on August 24th. “I wanted to do the painting using only black and white, to symbolize the racial conflict,” Tyree revealed. “I paralleled the symbolism of Trayvon’s hoodie by using words involved in his case.” The finished product is an impressive work that captures the attention and resonates with people of all ages, from all walks of life.

Despite obstacles seemingly placed in his path, Sean Tyree was determined to experience the history-making event and keep Trayvon Martin’s memory alive while doing it. The obstacles started before he had even put brush to canvas. “I had to make the canvas from scratch,” the artist explained, “since I couldn’t find a big enough one.” He then had to figure out how to transport it 200 miles from New Jersey to Washington, DC. After being quoted more than $400 to rent a van overnight, his artistry and ingenuity took over, “My father and I came up with a plan and attached two pool noodles to the top of the car with duct tape, I wrapped the painting in plastic wrap and tied down a bed sheet around it. I just knew that I had to take it and it didn’t matter how I got it there.”

Their haphazard luggage rack worked and in a few hours, Tyree and his mother, Clarice, were in the nation’s capital with thousands of other people, and that six-foot tall painting of Trayvon Martin. “We parked about three miles from the March and I carried the painting with me.

People in cars were honking and giving me the thumbs-up sign and then we stopped to get coffee and people approached me and began asking to take photos and it just

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exploded!” He carried the painting more than ten miles that day, and it was photographed more than one thousand times.

Surprisingly, this was Tyree’s first time personally showing his artwork. He is more accustomed to showcasing his musical talent as a singer, rapper, musician and producer.

“I’ve worked with LL Cool J and Jaheim recently,” he said modestly, “I’m finishing an album and I’m hoping to do an art show soon where I’ll also perform my music live.”

Despite his affable and humble demeanor, Tyree’s ambition seems apropos. He was a star athlete whose soccer prowess and #1 ranking in his Division took him to Montclair State University, where unfortunately his dream of playing professional soccer ended and he had to regroup. “I was this ‘USA Soccer star guy’ and all of a sudden, I felt like I didn’t have anything,” he said with palpable emotion in his voice. “So instead of going to the streets, trying to make money and solve my problems that way, I turned to the only things that seemed to occupy my mind and my time—my art and my music.”

Coming from a tight-knit family where Mark and Clarice Tyree instilled family values and a quest for excellence in Sean and his brothers, Michael and Jevon Tyree and Mohamed Sunu, Tyree remembers drawing charac-

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ters from the Dragon Ball Z cartoon as the beginning of his love affair with art, “I’m all about family and we used to have competitions to see who could draw the best character and I always won,” he said with a smile. He began painting in high school and while studying at Montclair State, he melded music and art together to form his company CMAX (Creative Music And Expression), an outlet for his creativity and talent. Apparrently wise beyond his years, Sean strives to pass on those values and his lifelearned lessons as he devotes his spare time to coaching local youth in several sports, including his beloved soccer.

So what became of the Trayvon painting after the march? “It’s currently hanging in my studio,” Tyree explained, although he hopes it won’t be there for long.

“I’m looking for someone to give it a home. I painted this painting so that I could sell it and donate the money to the Trayvon Martin Foundation,” he revealed. “That was the whole reason why I did the painting; I wanted to give of myself and give a generous donation.”

Visit the Trayvon Martin Legacy section on www.thepositivecommunity.com to see a short film Tyree made about his trip to Washington, DC and link to his music and more of his artwork. Remember his name; you’ll definitely be hearing it again in the future.

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Photos: Karen Waters

Music for a Summer’s Day

Montclair Jazz Festival Celebrates America’s Classical music

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he weather was warm, the grass was dry, and the sun shone brightly as sweet jazz music filled the air at the fourth annual Montclair Jazz Festival on Saturday, August 21, 2013. Nishuane Park was packed as jazz fans settled into their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the artistry of some of the world’s greatest jazz musicians— Christian McBride, Kenny Barron, Carl Allen,

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Anat Cohen and the Choro Ensemble, Freddie Hendrix Septet, Oscar Perez’s Nuevo Comienzo, Melissa Walker, Ed Palermo Big Band and of course, students from Jazz House Kids, for whom the event is a fundraiser.

There were food vendors purveying everything from fish to falafel and merchants selling all kinds of wares, each adding a friendly and festive air to the occasion.

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L–R: WBGO air personality Michael Bourne and Melissa Walker

Thelonious Monk

L–R: Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie Large sized depictions of jazz musicians created by students 8–12 years-old in the Montclair Art Museum’s Yard School of Art in their Summer Art Camp. Students work together in teams to produce the wonderful sculptures.

Montclair Public Library and the Montclair Art Museum collaborated to present the Family Discovery Zone featuring music-related story books read by jazz musicians and other art activities for the youngsters and their parents.

Jazz House kids, was founded by Melissa Walker in 2002 with the mission to “encourage young people to

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Internationally acclaimed bass player, composer and producer, Christine McBride

L–R: Natasha Dobson, Willie Blalock and Juanita Fields City National Bank President Preston Pinkett and Jazz House Kids Founder and Festival producer Melissa Walker

be life-long learners, communicators and innovators of Jazz, America’s revered musical art form that stands for freedom and democracy.” Walker, a singer in her own right, produced the festival along with creative direction from her husband, bass virtuoso Christian McBride.

City National Bank was back as stage sponsor for the second consecutive year.

—JNW

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I Was Trayvon Martin

BY MINISTER CORTLAND D. HEGGINS

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he Trayvon Martin story has not only affected America in a tremendous way, it has also affected me. I say that because I remember when I was seventeen years-old — the same age Trayvon Martin was when he was killed. And as I reflect back on my life when I was that age, I notice that there were major similarities between Trayvon and me.

When I was seventeen, I, too, wore what society calls urban wear: baggy jeans, hoodies and tennis shoes or Timberlands. I, too, used the N-word to describe people. I, too, tried smoking marijuana. I, too, had trouble in school and got into fights. So when I look back to when I was that age, I realize that I, too, was Trayvon Martin — someone who was judged and profiled because of his race; someone who was victimized and misunderstood because of his age.

And I now wonder how many people looked at me like I was a thug because of the clothes that I chose to wear and their own prejudices.

I wish there was a way to turn back time and be able to stop George Zimmerman from killing a young man because he decided the young man was out of place and didn’t belong in that gated neighborhood. Then I wish that we could skip ahead twenty-two years, just so we could see what type of person Trayvon Martin would have turned out to be.

You see, twenty-two years from the time of his death, Trayvon Martin would have been thirty-nine years-old, my current age.

Even though we had similar obstacles and issues in our

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youth, maybe Trayvon would have overcome the negative things in his life — which were really just things that most teenagers go through anyway — and maybe he would have redefined his life. His parents loved him and were involved in their son’s life, just like my parents, even when my walk wasn’t as straight as it should have been.

I wonder what the people who wrote me off and said I would never be anything and those who called me a thug like they did Trayvon, would say now when I tell them that I am a licensed minister who preaches the word of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? I wonder what they would say if I told them that I am a manager over one of the largest interconnection data centers in the world, with thirty people under my leadership? I wonder what they would say when I tell them that I am a father of four children, three of whom are honor roll students; the fourth one is a gifted and precocious toddler?

I wonder what they would say when I tell them that I own a house and two cars and have two businesses of my own? I wonder what they would say when I tell them that I am a husband whose wife has two degrees and doesn’t know how to settle for less?

I truly believe that like me, if Trayvon had been given the opportunity to live out his life, he, too, would have grown to be a positive, God-fearing, and hard-working individual.

Because if I could do it, I know he would have done it too.

How do I know? Because I was Trayvon, too.

Heggins today

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Keynote Speakers Keynote Speakers Keynote Speakers Keynote Speakers Keynote Speakers Thursday, September 26, 2013 Keynote Speakers Thursday, September 26, 2013 Thursday, 26, 2013 Thursday, September September 26, 2013 26, 2013 Opening Session Keynote Thursday, September Luncheon - Speaker Thursday, September Luncheon - Speaker26, 2013

Opening Session Keynote Speaker Opening Session Keynote Opening Session Keynote Speaker Opening Session Keynote Speaker Speaker Cornell W. Brooks, Esq. Speaker Opening Session Keynote Cornell W. Brooks, Esq. Speaker New Jersey Institute for Cornell W. Brooks, Cornell W. Brooks, Esq. New Jersey forEsq. Cornell W.Institute Brooks, Esq. Jersey Social Justice Cornell W.Institute Brooks, NewNew Jersey Institute forfor Social Justice New Jersey Institute forEsq. Social Justice New Jersey Institute for Social Justice Social Justice Social Justice

Paul J. Fishman Luncheon Luncheon -- Speaker Luncheon Speaker Paul J. Fishman United States Attorney for Luncheon - Speaker Paul J. Paul J. Fishman UnitedJ. States Attorney for Paul Fishman District of NewAttorney Jerseyfor United States Attorney United States for Paul J. District ofFishman New Jersey United States Attorney for District of New Jersey United States Attorney District Jersey for District of of New Jersey

Keynote Speaker

Keynote Speaker Keynote Speaker Keynote Speaker Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Keynote Speaker

Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Temple University Keynote Speaker Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Temple University Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Temple University Temple University Molefi Kete Asante, PhD. Temple University Temple University

District of New Jersey

Friday, September Friday, 27, 2013 2013 Friday,September September 27, 27, 2013 Friday, September 27, 2013 Friday, September 27, 2013 Friday, September 27, 2013

Youth Forum Speaker

Youth Forum Speaker Youth Speaker Youth Forum Forum Speaker Kaleena Berryman Youth Forum Speaker Kaleena Berryman Youth Forum Speaker Kaleena Berryman

Abbott Leadership Institute Kaleena Berryman

Abbott Leadership Institute Abbott Leadership Institute Kaleena Berryman Kaleena Berryman Abbott Leadership Institute Abbott Leadership Abbott LeadershipInstitute Institute

Luncheon - Keynote Speaker Luncheon - Keynote Speaker Luncheon - Keynote Speaker

Luncheon - Keynote Speaker Antoinette K. Ellis-Williams PhD. Luncheon - Keynote Speaker PhD.PhD. Antoinette K. Ellis-Williams Luncheon - Keynote Speaker Antoinette K. Director Antoinette K. Ellis-Williams Ellis-Williams PhD. Director Director Antoinette Ellis-Williams PhD. Antoinette K.K.Ellis-Williams Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center PhD. Director Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center Director Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center Director New Jersey City University Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center New Jersey City University Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center New Jersey City University Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center New Jersey City University New NewJersey JerseyCity CityUniversity University

Luncheon Speaker Luncheon Speaker

LuncheonY.Speaker Sheila Oliver Luncheon Speaker Luncheon Sheila Y. Oliver Speaker of the New Jersey SheilaSpeaker Y.Speaker Oliver Luncheon

Sheila Y.Assembly Oliver Speaker of the New General Speaker of the New Jersey Jersey Sheila Y. Oliver Sheila Oliver Speaker ofY.Assembly the New Jersey General General Assembly Speaker of the New Jersey Speaker ofAssembly the New Jersey General Assembly General General Assembly

Community Change Community Change Awards - Speaker Community Change Community Change Awards -- Speaker Awards Speaker Community Change Donald Payne, Jr. Community Change Awards M. - Speaker Awards Speaker Donald M. Payne, Jr. Jr. United States Congressman Donald Payne, Awards -M. Speaker Donald M. Payne, United States Congressman New Jersey 10 Jr. Jr. United States Congressman Donald M.District Payne, Donald M. Payne, Jr. New Jersey District 10 United States Congressman New Jersey District 10 United States Congressman

United States Congressman New Jersey District New Jersey District 10 10 New Jersey District 10

Contact Information: For Exhibits, Sponsorships, and Registration Information Contact Information: For and Information ContactPlease Information: For Exhibits, Exhibits,• Sponsorships, Sponsorships, and Registration Registration Information Call: 973-824-7463 Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org Please Call: 973-824-7463 • Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org Contact Information: For Exhibits, Sponsorships, and Registration Information Please Call: 973-824-7463 Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org Contact Information: For Exhibits,•Sponsorships, and Registration Information Contact Information: For Exhibits,•Sponsorships, and Registration Information Please Call: 973-824-7463 Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org Please Call: 973-824-7463 • Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org

Please Call: 973-824-7463 • Fax: 973-824-2212 • www.njbic.org

Limitless Life Bishop Donald Hilliard II, senior pastor, Cathedral International, Perth Amboy, NJ

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bundant Life Family Worship Church (ALFWC), in New Brunswick, NJ hosted its “Living a Limitless Life” conference August 15, 16 & 18. Guest speakers Rev. Jasmine Sculark, Dr. Floyd Flake and Bishop Donald Hilliard II along with Abundant Life pastor, Bishop George Searight, charged those in attendance to begin living life to the fullest through faith. Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, a group of just seven gifted voices that sound like 40 or more, lifted praises on high with their glorious renditions of “Fill Me Again,” “Testimony” and “Anthem of Praise.”

Rev. Jasmine Sculark, senior pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church, York, PA Dr. Floyd Flake, senior pastor, Allen AME Cathedral of New York

Bishop George Searight, senior pastor, Abundant Life Family Worship Church

Photos: AFLWC Photo Ministry

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YOUTH POWER

By Glenda Cadogan Nia Benn and Valerie McLeod-Katz on the job at the Brooklyn Museum Stay in School concert

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n the Nguzo Saba her name means purpose. Eighteen-yearold Nia Benn is not only living up to her name, but by example she is providing a guiding light for other young people to follow. A recent graduate of the High School for Fashion and Industry, Benn is now a freshman at Brooklyn College majoring in Business Communication. She is also the CEO of her own company, NY Coming. Over the Labor Day weekend she added another accomplishment to her impressive resume—that of co-producer of the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) Stay In School Youth Fest Concert.

The annual concert is the brainchild of Joyce Qualia, former WIADCA business manager who wanted to harness the power of the extraordinary amount of young talent in the community. Now in its 25th year, the event is designed to honor, celebrate and encourage the diverse artistic expressions of young performing artists while stressing the need to stay in school in pursuit of higher education. It serves to remind them of the magnitude of their rich cultural heritage and its place in everyday life.

This year, Benn debuted her skills working along with seasoned producer Valerie McLeod-Katz.

Benn undertook the lion’s share of the bookings for the concerts as well as marketing and promotions.

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The Positive Community September 2013

Talented Brooklyn Teenager Produces Stay In School Concert

“It’s important that young people hear from the voices of other young people about the importance of staying in school,” she said. Benn rated the event an eight and declared that she was determined to make it even better next year. “It was a learning experience,” she acknowledged.

“Some people say that you expect the worst and hope for the best. But what I learned is that you expect and hope for the best. I am very happy that the show turned out great.”

Under the banner of NYComing, Benn works on image building for various artists and has directed photo and video shoots. She also produces events for young people, whips up their support for charitable events like the Cancer Walk and writes a regular blog. She landed the producing position with the Stay in School concert after her father, Phillip Benn, a longtime cultural entrepreneur, approached the WIADCA with the idea of doing a joint venture with his Streets of New York Company. The result was a meeting with McLeod-Katz who has been producing the Stay in School Concert since 2004. She happily embraced the partnership when she learned that the younger Benn was the CEO of her own company. “In this way we not only had youth performing for youth but the added component of the show being produced by one of their own,” said Mcleod-Katz. “I felt this would make it even more attrac-

tive to our target audience.” Her bet paid off this year as a record number of young people attended the August 30th concert on the grounds of the Brooklyn Museum on Eastern Parkway. She went on to describe her approach to working with the young producer: “I took two steps back, acted as a guide and gave Nia the opportunity to grow and she did quite well.”

As a result, McLeod-Katz is prepared to grow the partnership and the concert. “A cultural arts education has always been the mainstay of a community and as such the mission of the concert is to act as a powerful reminder to the youth of its meaning and how being rooted and grounded in it can lead to empowerment,” explained McLeod-Katz.

Some of the featured performances included: The Mildred Forde Dance Theater; The Jules Legacy Dancers; The Roxborough Police Youth Group, from Tobago; The New Generation Dance Group; The Magnificent Troopers Marching Band from Jamaica; The Medgar Evers College Preparatory School Marching Band, vocalists Devyn Tyson, Sensational Rhea and Devyne; Hip-Hop/ Rap Artists, The Watchmen, Noah Vinson and HOA Bossman; Kan Cobra Martial Arts Academy and Boodoosingh School of Tassa. DJ Young Chow of Hot 97 fame provided music and a fashion show featured three young clothing designers. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Vroom Vroom... Lincoln Tech

Mayor Wayne Smith of Irvington, president of the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association (NJUMA)

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incoln Technical Institute’s automotive training program was on display in the form of a professional race car at the 9th Annual Unity Day in Irvington, NJ, on August 10, 2013. A principal sponsor of the event, Lincoln Tech Union Executive Director, Dr Kevin Kirkley, has pledged to work with Irvington Mayor Wayne Smith on a concept they describe as Economic Development through Community Development. Simply defined, it means offering real skills training in technology, and assistance in getting graduates employed in good paying careers, leading to an ever improving and more economically stable community.

To that end, on September 26, 2013, Lincoln Technical Institute, Union will host the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association (NJUMA) at the Lincoln Tech Union campus.

Barbara George Johnson, executive director of the John S. Watson Institute for Public Policy of Thomas Edison State College and Mayor Wayne Smith of Irvington, president of the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association (NJUMA) will conduct a discussion focusing on the topic “Economic Development and Community Development.”

In addition to Automotive technology, Lincoln Tech Union campus offers training in Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Technology (HVAC) and Electronic Systems.

Family Fun Day “It’s a new day”

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ongregation and community came together on Saturday July 13th for a day of family and fun. Rev. Ron Christian pastor of Irvington NJ’s Christian Love Baptist Church opened the doors of the church and took the ministry of goodwill and peace to the streets hosting the 12th annual Community Fun Day Festival. It was an all-day event featuring carnival rides, musical entertainment “all you can eat” outdoor barbeque and the Word!

Photos: Karen Waters

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Carrie Mobley and Kenneth Johnson Wed

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amily, friends, co-workers and clergy leaders gathered at the Surf Club in New Rochelle, NY to celebrate the marriage of Carrie Mobley and Kenneth Johnson.

The two were joined together in

holy matrimony on July 19, 2013.

Carrie is the New York State Director of Faith Based Initiatives for the NYS Independent Democratic Party. Kenneth is a retired New York City Corrections officer.

Carrie Mobley and Kenneth Johnson

Rev. Carl L. Washington, Jr., pastor, New Mt. Zion Baptist Church; Bishop W. Darin Moore, presiding bishop of the Western Episcopal District; Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Johnson; Rev. Dr. Shon Adkins, pastor, Antioch Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Stephen Pogue, pastor, Greater Centennial AME Zion Church

Rev. Carl L. Washington, Jr. gives away the bride.

Sims/Abrams Nuptials

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edding bells rang for the former Tesha L. Sims and Rodney L. Abrams as they took their marriage vows on Saturday August 24, 2013 at First Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Newark, N.J. A reception followed at the Galloping Hill Inn, Union, N.J. The bride is a graduate of the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration. The groom is an independent trucking company owner/operator.

The new Mrs. Abrams is the daughter of Deacon and Deaconess Vincent and Doris Bryant. The groom is the son of J.P Abram and Pearline Mustan.

The couple will make their home in Newark.

Photo: Vincent Bryant

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The Positive Community September 2013

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Discover our panoramic views for your corporate or social event by contacting (973) 242-0658 or info@MetroRoomNJ.com or visit www.MetroRoomNJ.com.

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Trilogy: an Opera Company Performs Robeson

Opera in Newark

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“ Paul Robeson was an athlete, lawyer, actor, singer and activist and today remains one of American history’s most enduring figures.”

Photos: Barry Gray

n August 3, 2013, Trilogy: an opera company gave an exciting preview performance of a new opera, Robeson at the Central Theater in Newark, NJ in front of an enthusiastic audience in tribute to the African American hero.

Paul Robeson was an athlete, lawyer, actor, singer and activist and today remains one of American history’s most enduring figures. Using the songs of black America as well as folk and art songs from around the world, Robeson exposed and celebrated the struggles of all those disrespected because of the color of their skin or their particular political interests.

The opera was composed by Adolphus Hailstork and the title role was performed by the celebrated American basso, Kevin Maynor as Paul Robeson. The beautiful Manna KnJoi played Eslanda, his wife, with Raemond Martin as Reverend Robeson, his father and Chase Taylor as Robeson’s brother Ben. Russian Soprano Ekatarina Kim was the white lady, and star of HBO and Broadway, Anthony Chisholm, the reporter. The opera was directed by Mark Clayton Southers and conducted by Julius Williams, the resident conductor of Trilogy:aoc.

Set designs were done by Njluka Hotaling, costume designs by Glenroy Marsh. Philip Bingham was chorus master, lighting by Vincent Miller; assistant music director was Tuffus Zimbabwe from Saturday Night Live.

Taocarkeste, the resident orchestra for Trilogy: aoc, provided accompaniment.

Robeson continues the mission of T:aoc to perform works by African American composers with subjects relevant to the black experience. Other works the company has performed include Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Emmet Till, and The Three Mayors: Gibson, James and Booker.

Maynor and Knjoi www.thepositivecommunity.com

Rev. Glen Misick Takes the Helm at Historic Newark Church New Pastor Has Big Plans for Old First Presbyterian

BY R.L. WITTER

rowing up in the Caribbean island nation of Turks and Caicos, Glen Misick knew two things: he wanted to go to New York and he wanted to be a minister. At the tender age of twelve, Misick proclaimed, “I want to be a minister like Reverend Stokes” after attending an evening service led by Rev. Dudley Stokes from Jamaica. His father recognized his son’s sincerity and sent him to boarding school in Jamaica, where young Glen got involved in Christian groups, became a youth minister, and where his faith grew.

Finding himself on his way to fulfilling one goal, Misick set out to accomplish the other. Both of his parents had lived in New York at different points in their lives, but his father was not keen on the idea of his son moving there. “Too many members of my family died there,” he lamented. Young Misick persisted and found himself living with an uncle and landing smack-dab in the middle of the Ocean Hill-Brownsville school controversy. He and schoolmate A.R. Bernard were bussed there and helped integrate an all-white school.

Misick attended Trinity Baptist Church in Crown Heights, which was transitioning from a church serving a predominately white congregation to serving a black one. The intrepid teenager became a youth minister, started a choir and taught bible school there, all before graduating high school. Of course he graduated, then enrolled at Brooklyn College while he immersed himself in Intervarsity Christian Fellowship and singing with a Christian contemporary group. Both goals were in sight.

Missing his family, Misick appealed to his father to relocate the rest of the family to New York and shortly thereafter, his mother, brother and two sisters joined

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him. His father was still not convinced. Eventually they persuaded the patriarch of the family to join them in the Big Apple. “He didn’t want to come, but he finally agreed to come for the summer,” Rev. Misick recalled.

“He arrived. And he died of a heart attack two hours later as I held him in my arms. I was devastated at 19 and heard my father’s voice reciting Proverbs 3:5-6 from my childhood: ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.’”

Young Misick’s path was set, he just didn’t know there would be so many twists and turns on it. After graduating from college, he met Benjamin Hooks, a civil rights activist, Baptist minister and practicing attorney. “I decided I wanted to go to law school at that point,” he explained. “I had taken a job with the Department of Social Services in New York, and I was working for the Presbyterian Church and heard about a job opening in Princeton, NJ… I took the position doing outreach and counseling and they encouraged me to apply to seminary at Princeton University.” He did, he excelled and graduated in 1979 with his Masters of Divinity degree.

Misick’s path next led him to Baltimore, MD, where he interned at a white church that was leaving the area.

That experience opened the door to a position in Daytona Beach, FL at First Congregational Church.

“They were transitioning from an all-white church to a black church,” he recalled. “I helped them with the transition and stayed five years. I also taught Religion and Philosophy at Bethune Cookman College” and he met his wife, Dr. Jennifer Misick, a preacher’s daughter.

The path wound through California, Arkansas and continued on next page

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REV. MISICK continued from previous page

Florida again—even some time in South Africa— before returning to New York to pastor Harlem’s historic Church of the Master and finally, Old First Presbyterian Church in Newark, NJ, the oldest church in the state. Misick explained, “I told them right way, ‘If you want somebody to do maintenance for you, you don’t want me. But, if you want to be significant, you want to do significant ministry, then I’m your person.’”

Misick’s experience in transitioning churches made him an ideal match for Old First Presbyterian. As the downtown Newark area is being rebuilt and revitalized, Misick plans to lead the church to do the same. “What I see here is potential,” he exclaimed. “My goal is to really impact the community of Newark because it’s been neglected for many years. Also, since we’re a downtown church, as they develop downtown I see having a weekday service for the people who work downtown. Right now the service is very classical; I want to put together a

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September 2013

second service, a contemporary service. We have the space—we have plenty of room. The potential is there and I feel a strong sense of God to this ministry.”

Not only does Old First Presbyterian give Misick a church with plenty of space, it also gives him a church with a history as rich and beautiful as its 1,200 seat sanctuary. Founded in 1666, the church boasts three former pastors who were presidents of Princeton, Yale and Harvard, as well as membership that included Aaron Burr, Sr., father of the third U.S. vice president. The church, located just steps from the Prudential Center, was a stop on Harriet Tubman’s Underground Railroad.

“In the back of the sanctuary, there are some seats that lift up and people would come up through there or slip down into the tunnels,” Misick explained.

Throughout his life, Rev. Dr. Glen Misick has kept two words at the top of his list of things he would like to achieve: excellence and significance. “When you give people excellence and you’re clear about where you’re going, I think that attracts them,” he explained. Misick continued, “We’re going to access the legacy and history of the church and examine our present situation, but we’re going move into the future. I think that the Lord is going to grow this church.”

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Photo: Glen Frieson

L-R: North Atlantic Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. Constance R. Pizarro, NJ State Senator and Essex County Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz, Freeholder Carol Clark, Freeholder President Blonnie Watson, Newark Postmaster Michael Deignan, Freeholder Vice President Patricia Sebold, DiVincenzo and former Governor Brendan Byrne.

Forever Stamp of Approval Althea Gibson U.S. Postage Stamp Unveiled at Branch Brook Park

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n Saturday, August 24th, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. partnered with the United States Postal Service to honor tennis legend and civil rights pioneer Althea Gibson during a First-Day-of-Issue Ceremony at the tennis court complex that bears her name in Essex County Branch Brook Park. The stamp with Ms. Gibson’s likeness is the 36th Stamp in the Postal Service’s Black Heritage Series. Now, generations who never had an opportunity to see her play will be reminded of her greatness on and off the court thanks to the U.S. Postal Service’s Althea Gibson Forever® stamp.

Althea Gibson, an East Orange resident, was the first African American to win championships at famous tournaments, such as the French Open, the United States Open, the Australian Doubles and Wimbledon in the 1950s. She also was the first African American to be named as the Female Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press in 1957 and received the award a second time in 1958. In 1975, Ms. Gibson was named as the New Jersey Commissioner of Athletics and held the position for 10 years. She also served on the State's Athletics Control Board and the Governor's www.thepositivecommunity.com

Council on Physical Fitness. Later in life, Ms. Gibson organized tennis clinics for children at the tennis courts in Branch Brook Park. She passed away at the age of 76 on September 28, 2003, in East Orange.

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo pointed out that the tennis complex in Branch Brook Park was dedicated in her honor in 2002 and the bronze statue of Ms. Gibson was unveiled in 2012. Essex County also honors the memory of Ms. Gibson every March when it presents the Essex County Althea Gibson Leadership Awards during the Annual Essex County Women’s History Month Celebration.

“We did this to recognize her achievement and ensure that future generations are inspired by her dedication to activism and mentoring of young people,” he said, adding, “It is fitting that one of the Postal Service’s first-day-of-issue ceremonies is taking place right here in Essex, alongside her statue.”

Freeholder President Blonnie Watson summed up the sentiments of virtually all in attendance that day when she said simply, “I’m proud to be here when we can issue a stamp for one of our own from Essex County.”

September 2013 The Positive Community

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the New York premiere of London’s award-winning drama

starring

Dee Dee BriDgewater

accept if you DARE

Written & directed by

Stephen Stahl

t he F inal C omeBaCk oF a l egenD t he B eginning oF a l egaCy

“stunningly good!”

-BBC “Marvelous theatre!”

-Daily Telegraph telecharge.com 2 212-239-6200 The Little Shubert Theatre 422 W. 42nd St. 2 Betw. 9th & 10th Aves.

ladydaytheMusical.com 58

The Positive Community September 2013

a play by

FRASER GRACE directed by

DAVID SHOOKHOFF

August 7 - October 6 The Alice Griffin Jewel Box Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center 480 West 42nd Street (between 9th & 10th Aves.)

Ticket Central TicketCentral.com | 212-279-4200

www.BreakfastWithMugabe.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

neighborhood.

Our doctors.

Moderator Rev. Lee A. Arrington

UMBA

1st Vice Moderator Dr. Carl L. Washington , Jr.

The Annual Session of the United Missionary Baptist Association

will convene Monday October 7— Friday October 11, 2013 Saturday, October 5, 2013; 10AM: Lottie B. Heath Youth & Young Adults Auxiliary Jr. Usher's Presidents will deliver their Annual Addresses Monday, October 7, 2013; 7PM: Parent Body Night: Rev. Dr. Frank Ray, Pastor New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, Memphis, TN Tuesday, October 8, 2013; 7PM Laymen's Auxiliary: Rev. Dr. Booker T. Sears, Pastor Good Will Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Wednesday, October 9, 2013; 9AM: Nurses Auxiliary: Rev Bennie Wright, Pastor New St. John Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Wednesday, October 9, 2013; 4PM: Rev. Dr. John L. Scott Associate Ministers: Rev. Dr. Betty Spencer will deliver President's Annual Address

The Theme Exploration The Perseverance of the Saints Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr., Host Pastor

New Mt. Zion Baptist Church (between Lenox & 7th Avenues)

771 West 140th Street New York, NY 10030

iS YouR ChuRCh SeaRChing FoR

Wednesday, October 9, 2013; 7PM: The Ushers Auxiliary: Rev. Isaac B. Graham, Pastor Macedonia Baptist Church, NYC, Former Moderator UMBA Your neighborhood just got better.

aFFoRDaBle BeneFitS? Then this is a Book oF Revelation.

Thursday, October 10, 2013; 9AM: Primary and specialty care doctors committed to keeping you healthier. To Themake Women's Auxiliary: (12 Noon) it easier for you, we welcome walk-ins and same-day appointments, Rev.and Keith Bolden, Sr., Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, NYC we have Saturday and First evening hours.

We participate in most insurance

Here’s something every Christian employer should know: offering retirement benefits for your employees is well within your reach.

In fact, it’s quite affordable.

Including social security benefits, career members can retire with as much as 86%* of their pre-retirement income. And others can retire handsomely, too.

To learn more, send for our free guide, “Faith in Numbers,” or download it now at: MMBB.org/benefitsolutions. Or call 1-800-986-6222.

plans including Medicaid-managed plans.

Thursday Octobermost 10, 2013; 7PM: Moderator's Annual Address,Clinical Services TOGETHER, CELEBRATE Rev.• Adult Lee A.Primary Arrington, Baptist Church,WE NYC • Pulmonary Medicine Endocrinology CarePastor, •Paradise HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH. • Women’s Health • Gastroenterology • Cardiology Friday, October 11, 2013; 12NOON: Real Planning, Real SolutionS. that’S ouR Calling.

For the next 30 days, we’ll be right by your side • Nephrology • Diabetes Management paying tribute to the histories, cultures and contributions Doctrinal Sermon: Reverend Henry Jackson, Pastor of the Latin American community.

1827 NYC Madison Avenue and 119th Street St. Stephen Baptist Church, Let’s celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

*Source: 2010 Retirement Income Study. Based on 15+ years of participation.

To schedule an appointment, please call 212.722.1441.

the music, culture and people who make Friday, October 11, 2013; 4PM:and New York's neighborhoods so special.

Minister's Widows & Wives Auxiliary: Because healthy living is happy living.

To schedule an appointment or learn more UMPA, And about together, we can stay healthy, get well and live better.

Lady Morrison will deliver Annual Address please call 212.523.UMPA (8672) her or visit www.UMPA.com.

Friday, October 11, 2013; 7PM: Lord's Supper Service: Rev. Dr. Joe A. Bush, Pastor Walker Memorial Baptist Church, Bronx, NY For more information visit emblemhealth.com

Friday, October 11, 2013 9AM

The Association will hold its Elections ... ONLY CHURCHES WHO ARE PAID IN FULL FOR THE YEAR WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO VOTE!!!

e A. Arrington or

Carl L. Washington, Jr. Moderator

Anthony Lowe Moderator

epherd Lee ng Secretary

Calvin Kenrick t Recording Secretary

From Our Hearts to Your Hearts! From Our Hands To Your Hands!

People Helping People . . .

ith A Bolden, Sr. al Secretary

Jesse Williams t Financial Secretary

ricia A. Morris onding Secretary

Let the Florence E. Browne Funeral Home family care for your family during your difficult season of bereavement. In business since 1912, our full service funeral home is well-known for its compassionate, professional & excellent service.

Our staff is always available to assist you through the grieving process.

Sean P. Gardner, Sr. er

ayne A. Williams t Treasurer

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For many years Florence E. Browne has served many communities locally and abroad. Feel free to visit our Funeral Home located in the Village of Harlem, New York. Our Service Family would be more than happy to sit and answer your questions regarding funeral arrangements, cremations & pre-arrangements. In addition, we provide notary services as well as referrals for anyone desiring professional grief counseling.

September 2013 The Positive Community

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BY PATRICIA BALDWIN

Tye Tribbett— Greater Than Grace & Peace! ye Tribbett is a reminder that if He did it before, He can do it again—like his single “Same God” proclaims. And it is uplifting and amazing that Tribbett’s fifth recording project is the highest album debut of his recording career. This is a great moment — not just for Tye, but for Motown Gospel as well, since Tribbett’s Greater Than is their very first release.

Tribbett’s live album release event, held in Detroit— Motown itself—at Greater Grace Temple, was standing room only. Five thousand people came to see what this awesome man of God was bringing forth. Greater Than has the original flavor that Tye Tribbett is known for, and live performances and recordings are his forte, but he has a problem with explaining this project. “I’m more excited with this one (CD) than any of them, I mean it’s my season and God just gave me these songs—I don’t know what to say… It’s sort of like when Kirk Franklin came out with The Rebirth, that’s where I am, that’s what I feel like, a rebirth.” He explained that the concept came from one of his Wednesday night bible classes when he read 1 John 4:4, “Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.” “After I went through all my issues, problems, I realized that God is greater than all this stuff I’ve been through and all this stress I feel, loneliness I feel, and His love is even greater than that,” Tribbett explained. His current project expresses just who our God really is along with His extreme capabilities.

Greater Than starts with “Nobody,” a good ol’ Tribbett chant — a jump up and down, call and response declaration that says He’s a healer, heart fixer, mind regulator and there is nobody like Him. We all can attest to that! Isaiah 61: 1-3 was the inspiration for his inspiring ballad “Beauty for Ashes.” It confesses a broken down spirit that can’t look anywhere else but to the word of

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God as a reminder of His promises that He will heal you and give you joy for your pain.

“Stayed On You” has a throwback feel, using the chorus of George Harrison’s 1988 classic, “Got My Mind Set On You.” Tribbett’s fun and creative sides are showcased by the layering of Quincy Jones’ “Soul Bossa Nova,” better known as the “Austin Powers Theme,” in the verses (Hey, Proverbs 17:22 says a merry heart does good like medicine!).

On “Better,“ Tribbett’s signature style comes to the forefront with chord variations that only a true musician can appreciate, but relaxes back into worship mode. This song has elements of his “Everything Will Be Alright” and “He Has Made Me Glad,” and yes, his signature triple “OOOO” is in there so you don’t feel abandoned.

“What Can I Do” and “The Worship Medley (There Is Nothing Like/Glory to God Forever)” are perfect examples of why we love Tye. His original collective worship efforts not only make you worship, but you can sense the power of God and the sincerity of the lifestyle of a true worshipper. They profess the love that we have for Christ in lyrics that speak on giving back to God the same unconditional love He gives us.

Tribbett is a true original. Being himself —as God created him— will always have him standout in a world of confused and challenged youth. But all that he’s been through makes his testimony more effective to witness to all ages. With Tribbett’s hit single “If He Did It Before…Same God” moving up on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Song chart and a listening audience of over 15 million people, there is no doubt that God’s blessings are Greater Than anything the world could ever offer. Being careful of the success and crediting God for his family and career, Tye Tribbett is more humble than ever, knowing now the great responsibility that he holds to minister and build The Kingdom.

September 2013 The Positive Community

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The Positive Community September 2013

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MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Victory in 2013 and Beyond n my August column, I discussed the concurrences and seeming contradictions of 2013. This year is the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington. Yet, this year, courts crippled the Voters Rights Act and acquitted Trayvon Martin’s murderer.

Then, after I wrote the column but before the summer The Positive Community hit most church tables, a U.S. court ruled that the way the New York City Police Department practices “Stop & Frisk” is unconstitutional. Not long afterward, New York’s City Council banned racial profiling in “Stop & Frisk” procedures and subjected the police department to oversight.

Yay!!! Thank God for victory in this commemorative year.

Interestingly, the court cited the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution in ruling against racial profiling aspects of “Stop & Frisk.” The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments were added to the Constitution shortly after the Civil War. These amendments abolished slavery, effectively made Americanborn blacks citizens with rights that could not be ignored, and allowed blacks to vote.

The Emancipation Proclamation targeted ending slavery only in the Confederate States. The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments—enacted after the war—applied to all states, including such “border” slave states as Maryland and Delaware, that had not joined the Confederacy.

Historically and chronologically, after the United States of America (the northern states) defeated the Confederate States of America (the southern states that had seceded from the United States) in 1865, northern military forces occupied the South for more than 10 years. “Radical Republicans,” led

by Pennsylvania Congressman Thaddeus Stevens and others, strongly advocated civil rights for former slaves, including voting rights. During this immediate post-Civil War period, called “Reconstruction,” numerous blacks were elected to local and state offices and to Congress.

Then, in the 1876 Presidential election, no nominee got the majority of Electoral College votes. So the decision went to Congress, as directed by the Constitution. Through the “Compromise of 1877,” Congress made Republican nominee Rutherford B. Hayes the new President, but federal troops were removed from the South as a carrot to the Democrats.

Removal of federal troops freed Southern whites to re-oppress blacks. During ensuing years, southern whites re-established white supremacy, utilizing “racial segregation” as a primary

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tool of black suppression. Through sharecropping, manipulation of law enforcement and prison systems and other mechanisms, re-oppression of blacks became severe enough to almost resemble slavery.

Blacks and socially moral whites did fight back. For example, Booker T. Washington established Tuskegee University in Alabama to teach technical skills to blacks, and later organized the National Negro Business League to promote black “commercial and financial development.” In the late 1800s, Ida B. Wells documented lynchings in her book, A Red Record.

In 1909, Wells, James Weldon Johnson, W.E.B. Du Bois and others organized the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). A few years later, Marcus Garvey organized massive numbers of blacks worldwide to build independent black institutions and end colonialism. In 1925, A. Philip Randolph organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, a black labor union.

Two decades later, Randolph began organizing for a “March on Washington” to pressure President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to desegregate federal contractors during World War II. He called it off when Franklin capitulated, but approximately 20 years later he and Bayard Rustin were key organizers of the 1963 March on Washington.

The Civil Rights Movement of the late 1950s through 1970s significantly reduced oppression of blacks, but did not completely eliminate it. Thank God for the reduction; let’s count our blessings.

This year, God may be telling us through the setbacks and victories of 2013 that, although we’ve come a long way, there is still work to do. The setbacks remind us that vestiges of government-condoned white supremacy remain in the United States.

But the overturning of racial profiling through “Stop and Frisk” should encourage us that more victory is achievable.

Moreover, the massive turnout for the second March on Washington this past August reminds us that we must work as well as pray.

In a world populated by sinners, never will everything be perfect. But we who recognize Christ as Lord and Savior should seek God, Who is perfect, and allow Him to use us in making the world better.

So in 2013 and beyond, let’s look to the same God who rescued our ancestors from the slave trade and chattel slavery to now take us further, and use us as instruments in that progression as He chooses.

September 2013 The Positive Community

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

www.thepositivecommunity.com September 2013

™

BY R.L. WITTER

Vol. 13, No. 7

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Church/Community Affairs Coordinator Faith Jackson Contributing Writers Sonja Gracy Dr. Phillip Bonaparte Linda Armstrong Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Rosemary Sinclair Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Rev. Reginald T. Jackson Herb Boyd Glenda Cadogan Toni Parker Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood William Parrish Jeanne Parnell Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Donovan Gopie Linda Pace Hubert Williams Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Martin Maishman The Positive Community Corp.

133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: news@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © 2010 The Positve Community Corporation.

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

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The Last Word

The Positive Community September 2013

t’s mid-September and harried parents are breathing a collective sigh of relief that students have gone back to school! Sure, it was expensive to purchase new clothing and school supplies and yes, there may have been some pouting and whining upon the return of school-night rules and bedtimes, but Hallelujah!

It’s worth the effort because we need to educate our children.

Education has proven to be the major factor that determines a child’s ability to move through and move up in the world. Of course there are critics, because nothing—including our educational system—is perfect. Math and Science education are constantly in the news as technology continues to advance and evolve and we look toward the future. I wholeheartedly embrace new technologies and advocate teaching more Math and Science classes, but I also consider the teaching of History a necessary and valuable component of the American educational curriculum.

In recent years, school districts around the country have sought to change what our children are taught in school. In Arizona, HB 2281 banned ethnic studies at state-funded schools, making it illegal for a school district to teach any courses that “promote resentment of a particular race or class of people, or designed primarily for students of a particular ethnic group” or “advocate ethnic solidarity instead of the treatment of pupils as individuals.” That meant that Latino and African American Studies courses were discontinued, even at the college level.

A Tennessee group recently called for textbook selection criteria to include: “No portrayal of minority experience in the history which actually occurred shall obscure the experience or contributions of the Founding Fathers, or the majority of citizens, including those who reached positions of leadership.” Regardless of the fact that Native Americans were massacred and slavery, Jim Crow and other atroci-

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ties and injustices actually happened, they shouldn’t be included in textbooks because they might portray America’s Founding Fathers in a negative light.

This week, the Texas State Board of Education approved changes that will refer to the slave trade as simply the “Atlantic triangular trade” and voted to require students to learn about the “unintended consequences” of Title IX, Afirmative Action, and the Great Society, as well as conservative groups including the Heritage Foundation, Jerry Falwell’s now defunct Moral Majority, the National Rifle Association and the GOP’s Contract with America.

Some might say “That’s not happening here, that’s only in Tennessee and Texas, why should I care?” We should all care because the consequences could be devastating. This could produce a generation of children who have been raised to believe that “slavery” never occurred in America, it was just “triangular trade.” And civil rights, Title IX and Affirmative Action are unnecessary measures that penalized white Americans because obviously, if slavery, Jim Crow, racism and discrimination never occurred, then there was no reason to put laws in place to allow opportunities for qualified minorities.

And to black and brown American children who look around and see that they might have less than their white counterparts, there is no historical context. If slavery and discrimination never happened, then their black and brown ancestors had the same rights, education and opportunities as everyone else. So perhaps those kids will conclude that they are simply inferior, since there is no explanation or reason for the disparity.

Philosopher, writer and Harvard professor George Santayana’s famous quote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” comes to mind. So it’s imperative that we know our history as black and brown people in America and share it with our children before it is whitewashed away.

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Back-to-school for parents, too!

Start your school year on the right foot by getting more involved in your child’s education. Here are some tips for parents.

Provide resources at home for reading and learning. Families should have books and magazines on hand and read with their children each day.

Set a good example. Families should show their children that they believe reading is enjoyable and useful. They shouldn’t spend all their time in front of the TV. Encourage children to do their best in school. Families must indicate that they believe education is important and that they want their children to do the best they possibly can at school.

Emphasize academics. Many families get caught up in athletics and extracurricular activities, when academics should be their first concern.

Support school rules and goals. Families should take care not to undermine school rules, discipline, or goals.

Use pressure positively. Families should encourage children to do their best, but they should not apply too much pressure by setting unattainable goals or by involving them in too many activities.

Call teachers early if there is a problem so there is still time to improve the situation.

When families and schools work together, our children are the winners!

New Jersey Education Association… working for great public schools for every child.

Barbara Keshishian, President Wendell Steinhauer, Vice President Marie Blistan, Secretary-Treasurer Vince Giordano, Executive Director Richard Gray, Assistant Executive Director/Research Director