September 2019

GGOOOODD NNE EWWS S F FRROOMM T THHE E C CHHU URRC CHH A ANNDD C COOMMMMU UNNI TI TY Y GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

September September2019 2019 September 2019

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EDUCATION EDUCATION EDUCATION FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS EXCLUSIVE: EXCLUSIVE: EXCLUSIVE: MEET MEETNEWARK NEWARK MEET NEWARK PUBLIC PUBLICSCHOOLS SCHOOLS PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT SUPERINTENDENT SUPERINTENDENT ROGER ROGERLEÓN LEÓN ROGER LEÓN

REFLECTIONS: REFLECTIONS: REFLECTIONS: Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Calvin CalvinO. Butts,III III Rev. Dr. Calvin O.O.Butts, Butts, III

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GUEST GUEST GUEST EDITORIAL: EDITORIAL: EDITORIAL: NYC NYCPUBLIC PUBLIC NYC PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOOLS SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR CHANCELLOR RICHARD RICHARD RICHARD CARRANZA CARRANZA CARRANZA JOURNALIST JOURNALIST JOURNALIST T. THOMAS T.T.THOMAS THOMAS FORTUNE: FORTUNE: FORTUNE: HIS HISLEGACY LEGACY HIS LEGACY

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SPH-192043 USNews PosComm 8x10.5_SPUH Positive Community Ad 8/6/19 5:11 PM Page 1

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SEPTEMBER 2019

CONTENTS

SECTIONS MONEY ...................................16 HEALTH...................................20 EDUCATION.............................30 CULTURE ................................40

Features Drew Theological Is the Place .................................. 11

27

American Legacy Anniversary ................................... 16

Cover photo: Bob Gore

Fidelis Health & Wellness Fair ................................. 20

Brownsville Old Timers ............................................ 18

ON THE COVER:

DiVincenzo Dedicates Plaques ................................ 22

Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III reflects on his time at SUNY-Old Westbury

SUNY Board Chairman Retires ................................. 30

&also inside

Annual Inez Dickens Boat Ride ................................ 36 Meet Newark’s Roger León ...................................... 38 AACEO Meets in Brooklyn ........................................ 40

Guest Editorial ..................................... 9

Positive Music Matters ............................................ 41

Fitness Doctor .................................... 24

St. Paul’s Celebrates Narrative ................................ 42

The Way Ahead ................................... 53 History of T. Thomas Fortune House ......................... 46 The Last Word .................................... 54 A Surprise Birthday Celebration ............................... 49 4

The Positive Community September 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

deray davis, tony rock, jess hilarious and drew fraiser hosted by smokey suarez nov 9–24

the roots with a christian mcbride situation nov 16 Buddy Guy with Mavis Staples Sun, Nov 10 @ 7PM Chaka Khan Thu, Nov 14 @ 8PM Steps Ahead, Michael Franks and Spyro Gyra Fri, Nov 15 @ 8PM

thanksgiving comedy fest nov 29

the temptations & the four tops Sat, Oct 12 @ 8PM Celebrate Motown, timeless soul and R&B with two of the most enduring super-groups.

the hip hop nutcracker Fri, Dec 20 @ 7PM Sat, Dec 21 @ 2PM NJPAC’s holiday original—coming to PBS this Fall—reimagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score. Featuring special guest MC Kurtis Blow.

Lee Ritenour with Dave Grusin & Friends Thu, Nov 21 @ 7:30PM Maurice Hines is Tappin’ Thru Life featuring The DIVA Jazz Orchestra Sat, Nov 23 @ 3 & 7PM For full schedule, visit njpac.org/moodyjazz

stephanie mills & the whispers Sat, Jan 18 @ 8PM Soul-stirring R&B hits from the original star of Broadway’s The Wiz.

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

9/6/19 12:30 PM

Roll Call for PC_Summer_19_Issue.qxp_Roll Call for PC Document.qxd 8/16/19 10:03 AM Page 1

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MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL ALL ALL

TO PROGRESS TO PROGRESS TO PROGRESS

he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at he clergy organizations, churches, community andthis institutions listed belowthe have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each orbusinesses they support publication through purchase of advertising.

Find out more he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses andthis institutions listed belowthe have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support publication through purchase of advertising.

Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising.

Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. calling 973-233-9200 or Concord email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com.

Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY B.C., Brooklyn, NY Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Abundantby Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Abundant LifeBohannon, Fellowship Supt. Edward Jr.,COGIC, Pastor Newark, AbundantNJ Life Fellowship COGIC, Supt. Edward Bohannon, Abyssinian Harlem,Jr.,NYPastor Newark, NJB.C., Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III,Jr., Pastor Supt.

Edward Bohannon, Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NYPastor Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor B.C., Newark, NJ Abyssinian Harlem, NY Rev. Barry R.B.C., Miller, Pastor Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Abyssinian Newark, NJ

Rev. Barry R.B.C., Miller, Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Abyssinian Newark, NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall,

Rev Alphonso PastorNJNJ Agape Baptist Church, Newark, Aenon BaptistWilliams, Church,Sr., Vauxhall, Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., PastorNJ Agape Baptist Church,Pastor Newark,

Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Agape Baptist Church, Newark, NJ NY Rev. Robert Waterman, Pastor NY CraigBaptist R.M.Jackson, Pastor Antioch Church, Brooklyn,

Rev. Robert M.ofWaterman, Pastor NY Archdiocese New YorkBrooklyn, Antioch Baptist Church, Brother Tyrone Davis, of Black Ministry Rev. Robert M.of Waterman, Archdiocese NewOffice YorkPastor Brother Tyrone Davis, Office Baptist Ministers Conference Archdiocese of New York of Black Ministry of Greater NY Davis, & Vicinity Brother Tyrone Office of Black Ministry Baptist Ministers Conference Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, President of Greater NY &A.Vicinity Baptist Ministers Conference Rev.Greater Dr. Charles Curtis,NY President Berean B.C., of NYBrooklyn, &A.Vicinity Rev. Arlee Griffin Pastor Dr. Charles A.Jr.,Curtis, President Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Arlee Griffin Jr., PastorNYSr. Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, B.C., Newark, NJ Bethany Brooklyn, NYSr. Pastor Rev. Timothy Jones, Pastor Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Bethany B.C.,E.Newark, NJ Sr. Pastor

Rev. Timothy E.Newark, Jones, Pastor Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Bethany B.C., NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Timothy E. Jones, Pastor Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Pastor Beulah BibleBryan, Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Rev. Jeffrey Pastor Beulah BibleBryan, Cathedral Church,Pastor Newark, NJ Gerald Dickson, Senior Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ NJ Beulah Lydell Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior PastorNJ Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield,

Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Baptist Church, Morristown, Calvary Garfield, NJ NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. JerryBaptist Jr., Pastor Canaan B.M. C.Carter, of Church, Christ, Harlem, NY NJ Calvary Morristown, Rev. Thomas Pastor NY JerryB.M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan C.D. ofJohnson, Christ, Harlem, Rev. Thomas Pastor NY B.C., NJ Canaan B. C.D.Paterson, ofJohnson, Christ, Harlem, Rev. BarryB.C., L. Graham, Pastor Thomas D.Paterson, Johnson, Pastor Canaan NJ Rev. BarryB.C., L. Graham, Pastor Cathedral International., Canaan Paterson, NJ Perth Amboy, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Cathedral International., BishopAmboy, Donald NJ Hilliard, Pastor Perth Cathedral International., BishopAmboy, Donald Hilliard, Pastor Charity BaptistNJ Church, Bronx, NY Perth Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY

Rev. Reginald Pastor Christian LoveWilliams, B.C., Irvington, Charity Baptist Church, Bronx,NJ NY Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor Reginald Williams, Pastor NJ Christian Love B.C., Irvington,

Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor NJ Clear ViewLove Baptist Church, Newark, Christian B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Belle,Washington, Jr., PastorNewark, Brandon Keith Pastor NJ ClearCurtis ViewW. Baptist Church, Rev. Curtis Belle,Englewood, Jr., PastorNewark, Community B.C., NJ Clear ViewW. Baptist Church, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor Curtis W.B.C., Belle, Jr., Pastor NJ Community Englewood,

Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Church ofPastor God, Plainfield, NJ Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Dr. Lester Taylor,Pastor Community Church ofPastor God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Church Porter, Pastor Community of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor

Rev. Dr. Gary Simpson, Pastor Concord B.C.,V.Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary Simpson, Convent Avenue BaptistPastor Church, Concord B.C.,V.Brooklyn, NY New York, NYV. Simpson, Pastor Rev. Dr. Gary Convent Avenue Baptist Church, Rev. Jesse Pastor NewDr. York, NY T. Willams, Convent Avenue Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Cross and Crown Christian Church, New York, NY Orange, NJ T. Willams, Pastor Rev. Jesse CrossDr. and Crown Christian Church, Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor Orange, NJCrown Christian Church, Cross and Rev. LulaNJ A.B.C. Baker, Pastor Ebenezer of Englewood, NJ Orange, Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Lula A.B.C. Baker, Pastor Jr., Pastor Ebenezer of Englewood, NJ

Rev. Preston Thompson, Jr., Pastor Elizabeth, NJE.Councilwoman-At-Large Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Patricia Perkins-Auguste Rev. Preston Thompson, Jr., Pastor Elizabeth, NJE.Councilwoman-At-Large

Patricia Perkins-Auguste Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Elizabeth, NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Rev. Dr. Perkins-Auguste Carl T. Washington, Pastor Patricia Empire Missionary BaptistJr., Convention

Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, PastorNJ Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, Empire Missionary BaptistJr., Convention Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor CarlBaptist T. Washington, Jr., PastorNJ Evergreen Church, Palmyra, Rev. Dr. GuyBaptist Campbell, Jr., Pastor Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, Evergreen Church, Palmyra, NJNJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder Guy Missionary Campbell, Jr., Pastor Fellowship B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. T. ByrdGardens, Pastor/Founder First Dr. B.C.Elton of Missionary Lincoln Fellowship B.C.,Somerset Newark, NJ Rev. (Buster) Soaries, PastorNJ Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder First Dr. B.C.DeForest of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset Rev. DeForest (Buster) Pastor First Baptist Church, EastSoaries, Elmhurst, NY First Dr. B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor FirstDr. Baptist Church, EastPastor Elmhurst, NY Rev. Patrick Henry Young, First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, Rev. Patrick Young, Pastor First BaptistHenry Church of Teaneck, NJ NY Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Pastor First Baptist of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Church of Harris, Teaneck, NJ Rev. V. Gaitling, Pastor Dr. Marilyn Harris, Pastor FirstDerek Baptist of Monroe Jericho, Deptford, NJ

Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NYNJ Baptist of Jericho, Deptford, Rev. Walrond, Jr., SeniorNYPastor Derek V. A. Gaitling, Pastor FirstMichael Corinthian Baptist Church,

Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., SeniorNYPastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Corinthian Baptist Church, Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Michael A. Walrond, Jr.,Pastor Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. McClendon, Jr., Pastor FirstRufus Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Rufus McClendon, Jr.,Pastor Pastor First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Lester W.Convention, Taylor, Jr., President Richardson, Pastor General Baptist NJ Rev. Dr.Neighbor Lester W.B.C., Taylor, Jr., President Good Newark, NJ General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. George A.B.C., Blackwell, III, NJ Pastor Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President GoodDr.Neighbor Newark,

Rev. Dr.Neighbor Blackwell, Pastor Grace B.George C., Mt.A.B.C., Vernon, NY III, NJ Good Newark, Rev. Dr.B.Franklyn Richardson, Pastor George Blackwell, Grace C., Mt.A.W. Vernon, NY III, Pastor Rev. Dr.B.Franklyn Richardson, Greater Zion HillW. B.C., Harlem, NY Grace C., Mt. Vernon, NY Pastor Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY

Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Harlem Congregations for Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Community Improvement (HCCI) Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Harlem Congregations for Malcolm A. Punter, President(HCCI) & CEO Community Improvement Harlem Congregations for Malcolm A. Punter, President & CEO NJ Imani Baptist Church, East(HCCI) Orange, Community Improvement Rev. Derek Lee, SeniorOrange, Malcolm A. Punter, President & Pastor CEO NJ ImaniWilliam Baptist Church, East William Derek Lee, East Senior Pastor ItRev. Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJNJ Imani Baptist Church, Orange, Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, William Derek Lee,Pastor Senior Pastor It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ

KahlilLiving Carmichael, PastorLakewood, Macedonia Baptist Church, ItRev. Is Well Ministries, Clark, NJ NJ Dr. D. Harper, Pastor Rev.Edward Kahlil Carmichael, PastorLakewood, NJ Macedonia Baptist Church, Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Lakewood, NJ Macedonia Baptist Church, Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor

Rev. Dr. Henrietta PastorYork, NY Mariners’ TempleCarter, B.C., New Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor Memorial, B.C., New York, NYYork, NY Mariners’ Temple B.C., New Rev. Dr. Henrietta Renee Washington Gardner, Carter, Pastor Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Renee Memorial, B.C.,Washington New York,Gardner, NY Senior Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, Rev. Dr.Pastor Renee Washington Gardner, CT Rev. James Logan,Church, Pastor Bridgeport, CT Senior Pastor Messiah Baptist Rev. James Logan, PastorEast Messiah Baptist Church, Orange, NJ Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor James Logan, PastorEast Orange, NJ Messiah Baptist Church, Rev. DanaBaptist Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, Messiah Church, EastNJ Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor David Jefferson, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev.Pisgah Dr. Johnnie Jr., Pastor Mt. B.C.,Green Brooklyn, NY Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Youngblood, Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt. Pisgah B.C.,Ray Brooklyn, NY Pastor Rev.Pisgah Dr.Olive Johnny Ray Youngblood, Mount Baptist Church, Mt. B.C., Brooklyn, NY Pastor Hackensack, NJRay Youngblood, Pastor Rev. Dr.Olive Johnny Mount Baptist Church, Rev. Gregory J.NJ Jackson, Pastor Hackensack, Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rev.Olivet Gregory J.NJ Jackson, Mt. B.C, Newark, Pastor NJ Hackensack, Rev. André W.J.Milteer, Pastor Gregory Jackson, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev.Zion AndréAME W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Church, Trenton, NJ Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice,Pastor Pastor André W. Milteer, Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ

Rev.Zion J. Stanley Justice, Pastor Mt. B.C., Westwood, NJ NJ AME Church, Trenton, Rev. J.Garden Stanley Justice, Pastor Mt. Zion B.C.,State Westwood, NJ New Jurisdiction COGIC NJB.C., Westwood, NJ Mt. Zion New Garden State Jurisdiction Bishop William Calhoon COGICGarden NJ State New Jurisdiction BishopHope William Calhoon New Church, COGIC NJ Baptist Metuchen, NJ Calhoon Bishop William New Hope Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Ronald Pastor Metuchen, NJ L. Owens, New Hope Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Ronald New Hope Baptist ChurchPastor of East Metuchen, NJ L. Owens, Orange, East Orange, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Owens, NewDr. Hope Baptist ChurchPastor of East Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Pastor Orange, East Orange, NJ of East New Hope Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, New Hope Baptist Church of Orange, East Orange, NJ Pastor Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Rev. Dr. Kyndall Ross,Holly, Senior New LifeDrew Cathedral, Mt. Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ NJPastor Rev. Wallace, Pastor Dr. Kyndall Ross,Holly, Senior NewEric LifeDrew Cathedral, Mt. NJPastor Rev. Eric Reid TemplePastor COGIC New LifeWallace, Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ East Orange, NJ Pastor Rev. Eric Wallace, New Reid Temple COGIC Bishop WilliamNJ Calhoon East Orange, New Reid Temple COGIC BishopOrange, WilliamAME Calhoon North Selton Church, East NJ Piscataway, Bishop WilliamNJ Calhoon North Selton AME Church, Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors Piscataway, North SeltonNJ AME Church, Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Paradise B. C., NJ Pastors Piscataway, NJ Newark, Rev. Jethro Pastor Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Paradise B.James, C., Newark, NJ Pastors

Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Park Ave B. Christian Disciples Paradise C., Newark, NJ of Christ, East Orange, NJ Pastor Rev. James, ParkJethro Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor East NJ Disciples of Christ, Park Orange, Ave Christian Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ East Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Pilgrim B. C., Wilson, Newark,Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

Rev. Brown, Pastor Plainfield, NJ RuthTracey Fellowship Ministries, Rev. Pastor Englewood, Shiloh AMEBrown, ZionMinistries, Church, NJ RuthTracey Fellowship Plainfield, NJ Rev. John D.Brown, Givens, PastorEnglewood, NJ Tracey Pastor Shiloh AME Zion Church, Rev. John D. Zion Givens, PastorEnglewood, B.C., New Rochelle, NY Shiloh AME Church, NJ Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, Pastor John D. New Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Rochelle, NY Rev. Dr.B.C., DeQuincy Hentz, Plainfield, NJ Pastor Shiloh New M. Rochelle, NY Rev. Hodari K.Plainfield, Hamilton, Sr., Pastor Senior Pastor Dr.B.C., DeQuincy M. Hentz, Shiloh NJ Rev. Hodari Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor B.C.,K.Trenton, NJNJ Shiloh Plainfield, Rev. Darell Pastor Hodari K.Trenton, Hamilton, Sr., Senior Pastor Shiloh B.C.,Armstrong, NJ Rev. Darell PastorBrooklyn, NY St. Anthony Baptist Shiloh B.C.,Armstrong, Trenton,Church, NJ Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Pastor NY Darell Armstrong, PastorSr., St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Rev. Dr. Walter L.Church, DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor St. Anthony James AME Newark, NJ NY Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Rev.James Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor Dr. Walter L.Church, DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor St. AME Newark, NJ Rev.John Ronald L. Slaughter, St. Baptist Church,Pastor Camden,NJNJ James AME Church, Newark, Rev. Dr. Silas Townsend, Pastor NJ Ronald L.M.Slaughter, St. John Baptist Church,Pastor Camden, Rev.John Dr. Silas M.Scotch Townsend, Pastor St. B.C., Plains, NJ NJ Baptist Church, Camden, Rev. Shawn T.M. Wallace, Pastor Dr. Silas Townsend, Pastor St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ

Rev.Luke Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. Baptist Church of Harlem, NY John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St B.C., Paterson, St.Luke Luke Baptist ChurchNJ of Harlem, NY Rev. Kenneth Clayton,NJ Pastor Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C.,D.R. Paterson,

Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJPastor Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev.Matthew OwenMissionary E. Williams, Pastor St. AME Church, Orange, NJ Mark B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Melvin Wilson, Pastor Owen E.E.Williams, PastorOrange, NJ St. Matthew AME Church, Rev.Paul’s MelvinB.C., E.AME Wilson, PastorNJ St. Montclair, Matthew Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor St. Paul’s B.C., Montclair, NJ

Rev.Paul Dr. Bernadette Glover,Red Pastor St. Baptist Church, Paul’s B.C., Montclair, NJ Bank, NJ Rev.Paul Alexander Pastor Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. BaptistBrown, Church, Red Bank, NJ

Rev. Alexander Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY BaptistBrown, Church, Red Bank, NJ Rev.Paul DavidCommunity K. Brawley, Pastor Alexander Brown,B.C., St. Brooklyn, NY Rev.Paul DavidCommunity K.B.C., Brawley, Pastor Tabernacle Burlington, NJ St. B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor NJ David K.B.C., Brawley, Pastor Tabernacle Burlington, Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor NJ The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor NJ The New Hope B.C., Newark,

Rev. New Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Union Baptist Bridgeton, The HopeTemple,, B.C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ

Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ NJ Rev. James Brown, Sr., Pastor Park, NJ Albert L.H.Morgan, Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., PastorNYPark, NJ Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor James H. Brown, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C.Sr., Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. Memorial J. Albert Pastor Welcome BaptistBush Church, Newark, Walker B.C.Sr., Bronx, NY NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C. Williams, J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ

Rev. Dr.Gospel Elijah C.Music Williams, Pastor World Assoc., Newark, Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJNJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Rev. Dr.Gospel Elijah C.Music Williams, Pastor World Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis,Music Founder World Gospel Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches The Positive Community . Please support magazine, thechurches only one businesses should subscribe and outstanding advertise in work “and The Positive Community magazinetodoes in promoting the good works of the this Black Church. All Soaries, General Baptist Revival, 20, 2010 that featuresCommunity good newssubscribe about thetodoes black community.”— “and The Positive magazine inBuster promoting the good works of the May Black Church.

All TheRev. Positive Community . Please support this magazine, thechurches only one businesses should and outstanding advertise in work Positive . Please this20, magazine, the only one and should and advertise in TheRev. BusterCommunity Soaries, General Baptistsupport Revival, May 2010 that businesses features good newssubscribe about thetoblack community.”— that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

OWN YOUR FUTURE

From our intentionally small classes to the skills of our excellent faculty, everything SUNY Old Westbury offers is geared to enrich your experience and prepare you to pursue your own big dream.

• High-quality instruction in a small college environment, all at the affordable price of SUNY tuition…

• Nearly 50 undergraduate majors in the sciences offered in our schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education and Professional Studies…

• Recognized for the diversity of its dynamic student body by U.S. News & World Report, Insight Into Diversity magazine, and USA Today/College Factual…

With a solid foundation from SUNY Old Westbury, you’ll have the confidence in your own abilities to succeed at whatever you choose to undertake — to own your future.

From MONEY, August 2018 ©2018 Meredith Corporation All rights reserved.

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RICHARD A. RICHARD RICHARD A. A. CARRANZA CARRANZA CARRANZA GUEST GUEST GUEST EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL

Richard A. Carranza is the current New York Richard Richard A. A. Carranza Carranza is the City Schools Chancellor of current the NewNew YorkYork City City City Schools Schools Chancellor Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education.

Department Department of of Education.

Education.

A for A Children’s Children’s Agenda Agenda for New Schools New York York City City Public Public Schools

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Many ManyWe of ofhave our our students students20,000 and and schools doing better than ever! almost studentsare enrolled better better thanAll, ever! ever!

We have have almost almost 20,000 20,000 students enrolled in 3-K than for theWe highest-ever graduation rate, and more in in 3-K 3-K for forgraduate All, All, the the highest-ever highest-ever graduation graduation rate, and more students ready to succeed in college.

I expect students students graduate ready ready toour succeed succeed in this college. even moregraduate great things forto students year. I expect even even more great great thingsyear, for for our our students students this year.

At more the start of things every I think of a quote that captures At the thestart start of ofeducators every every year, year,atII think thinkbest. of of a quote thatacaptures ourAt schools and their It’s from six-yearour ourstudent schools schools and and educators educators at their their best. best.

It’s from old who said, “Myat teacher thought I wasa six-yearsmarter old old student student who whoI said, said, “My teacher thought thought wasyoungest smarter than I was—so was.”“My We teacher know that from Iour than than II was—so was—so II was.” was.”seniors We We know know that thatschool, from our learners in 3-K to our in high our youngest children learners learners in in 3-K 3-K to to our our seniors seniors in in high highleaders, school, creators, our children are the next generation of thinkers, and are are the the next next generation generation of of thinkers, thinkers, leaders, change-makers.

We are ready to propel eachcreators, of themand on change-makers. change-makers.

We are arethis ready ready to to propel propel of them on that path, so let’sWe make a year of higheach expectations. that that path, path, so so let’s let’s make make this thissteady aa year year of of high expectations.

Our commitment holds regardless of a student’s Our Ourincome, commitment commitment holds steady steady regardless regardlessdisability, of a student’s family race,holds religion, nationality, lanfamily familyspoken income, income, race, religion, religion, nationality, nationality,gender disability, language at race, home, sexual orientation, identifiguage guagespoken spoken at home, home, sexual sexual orientation, orientation, genderEveryone identification, or any at other dimension of their identity. cation, cation, or or any any other other dimension dimension of of their their identity.

Everyone at the DOE works hard to ensure that every student gets at at the the DOE DOE works works hard hard to to ensure ensure that that every student gets the rigorous, inspiring, engaging, nurturing education the the rigorous, rigorous, inspiring, inspiring, engaging, engaging, nurturing education they deserve. they they deserve. deserve.

I call this the Children’s Agenda—every day and every II call call this this the the Children’s Children’s Agenda—every Agenda—every every decision is about getting each student whatday theyand need to decision decision isWe is about about getting getting no each each student student whatclassrooms, they need or to succeed. understand two students, succeed. succeed.are We Wealike, understand understand no no two twothe students, students, classrooms, or schools and recognize beautiful and distincschools schools are areof alike, alike, and recognize recognize the the beautiful and distinctive nature each.and tive tiveWe nature nature of of each. each. historic inequities and leading students are reversing We Weare arereversing reversing historic inequities and leading students to historic academichistoric success.inequities For example, for many years, to to historic historicaccess academic academic success. success.Placement For For example, example, for many years, students’ to Advanced classes or Computstudents’ students’ access to Advanced Advanced Placement Placement classes or er Scienceaccess was ato function of the neighborhood or Computzip code er erScience Science was aa function function of of the theto neighborhood neighborhood or zip their code where theywas lived.

Their ability learn and sustain where where they they lived. lived.

Their Their ability ability to totolearn learn andtruly sustain their language and home culture—or become fluent in language languagelanguage and and home home culture—or to to limited. become becomeBecause truly fluent in another andculture—or culture—was of our another anotherlanguage language and andfor culture—was culture—was limited. limited. of City our Advanced Placement All program, 279 Because New York Advanced Advanced Placement Placement for All All program, program, 279 NewPlacement York City high schools are now for offering more Advanced high high schools schools are are now now offering offering more more Advanced Placement

www.thepositivecommunity.com

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classes, including 99 schools that had never offered these classes, 99 schools schools that that had had never never for offered offered these these courses including before. Through Computer Science All, historcourses before.

Through Through Computer Computer Science Science for for All, All, historhistoric numbers of female, black, and Latino students took the ic of female, black, and Latino Latino students took took the APnumbers Computer Science black, exam and in 2018.

Asstudents the result of the our AP Computer Science exam exam in in 2018.

2018.

As As the the result result of of our our investments in bilingual education, 44,000 students currentinvestments in bilingual bilingual education, education, 44,000 44,000 students currentcurrently attend bilingual education programs instudents 13 languages in ly attend bilingual education education programs programs in in 13 13 languages languages in in grades pre-K through 12—learning to read, write, and think grades pre-K through 12—learning 12—learning to to read, read, write, write, and and think think in two languages. in two languages.

As part of the Children’s Agenda and our commitment to As part the Children’s Children’s Agenda and andinour our commitment commitment to to equity andofexcellence, we’reAgenda investing Culturally Responequity and excellence, we’re we’re investing investing in in Culturally Culturally ResponResponsive and Sustaining Education (CR-SE) for all of our schools, sive and Sustaining Education Education (CR-SE) (CR-SE) for all of ofour ourthey schools, schools, allowing students to see themselves infor theall books read allowing students to see see themselves themselves in in the the books books they they read read and the historical figures they study. From the South Bronx and the historical figures figures they they study. study.

From From the the South South Bronx Bronx to Flushing, our students should study the works of Toni to Flushing, students students should should study studyofthe the works works of Toni Toni Morrison andour Audre Lorde; the music Yo-Yo Ma of and PeMorrison and Audre Lorde; Lorde; the the music music of of Yo-Yo Yo-Yo Ma Ma and and PePedro Infante. CR-SE isn’t about one person’s culture or ethdro Infante.

CR-SE isn’t isn’t about about one one person’s person’s culture culture or or ethethnicity—it’s about everyone’s culture, and showing all of our nicity—it’s about everyone’s everyone’sare culture, culture, and showing showing all allof ofour our students their experiences valuedand in the classroom.

The students their experiences experiences are are valued valued in in the the classroom. classroom.

The The research shows it works—resulting in improved attendance, research shows it works—resulting works—resulting in in improved improved attendance, attendance, GPA, graduation rates, and test scores.

GPA, graduation rates, and and test test scores. scores.

We also offer our students and families strong support, We alsotooffer our and students students and andvoices families families strong support, support, listening student parent andstrong creating more listening to student and and parent parent voices voices and and creating creating more more welcoming schools for all. This year, students across the welcoming schools for for all. all.

This This year, year, students students across across the the city will benefit from social-emotional learning, restorcity will benefit from from social-emotional social-emotional learning, learning, restorrestorative justice practices, and implicit bias training for all staff ative justiceCritics practices, and and implicit implicit bias bias training for for all allfrom staff staff members. say these initiatives aretraining a distraction members.

Critics say these these initiatives initiatives are are a a distraction distraction from from schoolwork, but the opposite is true—they demonstrably schoolwork, but the opposite oppositeand isis true—they true—they demonstrably improve student outcomes show our demonstrably students how improve student outcomes outcomes and and show show our our students students how how much we care. We can’t expect our students to keep trying much we care.

We can’t can’t expect expect our our students students to to keep keep trying trying through a difficult AP class, or persevere when there’s a flaw through a difficult code, AP class, class, or or persevere persevere when when there’s there’s aaflaw flaw in their computer if they don’t know beyond a shadow in their computer code, code, if if they they don’t don’t know know beyond beyond a a shadow shadow of a doubt their teachers believe in them and accept them of doubt their teachers believe believe in in them them and and accept accept them them forawho they are.teachers forThis who isthey are. the Children’s Agenda. This is what it means to adThisequity is the and Children’s Children’s Agenda.

Agenda.

This what what means means to toadadvance excellence now.This It’s isis our jobititas educators, vance equity and excellence excellence now. now.

It’s It’s our our job job as as educators, educators, parents, and adults to help every child dream as big as their parents, and adults to help help every child child dream dream as big bigpower as astheir their imaginations will allow, andevery do everything inas our to imaginations will allow, allow, and and do do everything everything in in our our power power to to make sure they succeed. I wish you all a wonderful and enmake sure they succeed. succeed.

I I wish wish you you all all a a wonderful wonderful and and enenlightened school year. lightened school year.

September 2019 The Positive Community

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9/25/19 7:32 PM

Drew Theological School Drew Theological School Drew Theological School Mourns the Loss of Mourns the Loss of Mourns the Loss of Our Friend and Colleague Our Our Friend Friend and and Colleague Colleague THE REVEREND DR. THE REVEREND DR. THE REVEREND DR. SR. JOHNNIE G. M CCANN, JOHNNIE G. M C CANN, SR. JOHNNIE G. M C CANN, SR. T’93,’95,’01 T’93,’95,’01 T’93,’95,’01

We celebrate Dr. McCann’s life as we We celebrate Dr. McCann’s life as we We celebrate Dr.boundless McCann’s life as we reflect upon his commitment reflect upon his boundless commitment reflect upon his boundless commitment and contributions to our community. and contributions to our community. and contributions to our community.

As a three-time alumnus, adjunct professor, recruiter and mentor for our community,

As aMcCann’s three-time alumnus, adjunct professor, recruiter and mentor for our community, Dr. legacy at Drew Theological School will continue for generations to come. The As aa three-time alumnus, adjunct professor, recruiter and mentor for As three-time alumnus, adjunct professor, recruiter and mentor for our our community, community, Dr. McCann’s legacy at Drew Theological School will continue for generations to come.

The deep-seeded love and affection he held for Drewwill wascontinue contagious and far-reaching, bringing Dr. McCann’s legacy at Drew Theological School for generations to come.

The Dr. McCann’s legacy at Drew Theological School will continue for generations to come.

The deep-seeded love and affection heour held for Drew was contagious and far-reaching, bringing countless students and guests to campus.

We are eternally grateful and proud of his tireless deep-seeded love and affection he held for Drew was contagious and far-reaching, bringing deep-seeded love and affection heour held for Drew was contagious and far-reaching, bringing countless students and guests to campus.

We are eternally grateful and proud of his tireless work at Drew, St. Luke and beyond. countless students andBaptist guests Church to our our campus. campus.

We are are eternally eternally grateful grateful and and proud proud of of his his tireless tireless countless students and guests to We work at Drew, St. Luke Baptist Church and beyond. work at Drew, Drew, St. St. Luke Luke Baptist Baptist Church and beyond. beyond.

The Sampson-McCann Scholarship, established to honor Dr. McCann and Dr. McCann’s work at Church and The Sampson-McCann Scholarship, established honor Dr. andlive Dr. on McCann’s father-in-law and Drew Scholarship, alum, the Rev.established Dr. Shellie to Sampson, Jr. McCann T’71,’77, will in Dr. McCann’s The Sampson-McCann to honor Dr. McCann and Dr. McCann’s The Sampson-McCann Scholarship, established to honor Dr. McCann and Dr. McCann’s father-in-law and Drew alum, the Rev. Dr. Shellie Sampson, Jr. T’71,’77, will live on intheir Dr. McCann’s memory at Drew, incredible to students of colorwill following call to father-in-law and offering Drew alum, alum, the Rev. Rev.opportunities Dr. Shellie Shellie Sampson, Sampson, Jr. T’71,’77, T’71,’77, live on on in in Dr. Dr. McCann’s McCann’s father-in-law and Drew the Dr. Jr. will live memory at Drew, offering incredible opportunitiesScholarship to students fund of color following theirhonor, call to ministry.

To contribute to the Sampson-McCann in Dr. McCann’s memory at at Drew, Drew, offering offering incredible incredible opportunities opportunities to to students students of of color color following following their their call call to to memory ministry.

To contribute to the Sampson-McCann Scholarship fund in Dr. McCann’s honor, please visit drew.edu/makeagift and click on “Tribute Information.” ministry.

To contribute to the Sampson-McCann Scholarship fund in Dr. McCann’s honor, ministry.

To contribute to the Sampson-McCann Scholarship fund in Dr. McCann’s honor, please visit drew.edu/makeagift and click on “Tribute Information.” please visit drew.edu/makeagift and click on “Tribute Information.” please visit drew.edu/makeagift and click on “Tribute Information.”

Drew University | Drew University | gradm@drew.edu Drew University Drew University || gradm@drew.edu gradm@drew.edu gradm@drew.edu

Rooted.

Rooted.

Rooted.

Madison, NJ | 973.408.3111 NJ | 973.408.3111 |Madison, drew.edu/theological-school Madison, NJ Madison, NJ || 973.408.3111 973.408.3111 | drew.edu/theological-school || drew.edu/theological-school drew.edu/theological-school

Innovative.

Innovative.

Innovative.

Courageous.

Courageous.

Courageous.

Drew Theological School is a community of scholars, ministers and activists that for more than 150 years has been educating rooted, innovative and courageous leaders for service to the Church, the academy and society.

“The Lord Spoke to Me, Clear as Day: ‘ This Is the Place’”

Drew Theological School Remembers the Reverend Dr. Johnnie G. McCann, Sr. T’93,’95,’01

T

he Reverend Dr. Johnnie G. McCann, Sr. joined the Drew Theological School community in 1991 when his mentor and future father-in-law, the Reverend Dr. Shellie Sampson Jr. T’71,’77, encouraged him to visit Drew, and even drove him to see the campus for the first time. The day of that initial visit, over 25 years ago, McCann experienced an inner voice affirming that Drew was his future home. “The Lord spoke to me, clear as day: ‘This is the place,’” recalled McCann in a recent interview.

This was only the beginning of Drew’s journey with McCann.

That decisive moment certainly proved to be providential. McCann enrolled at Drew Theological School with a full scholarship, earning three graduate degrees: Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry and finally his Master of Sacred Theology.

Out of gratitude for all Drew had given him, McCann became a prolific recruiter for the Drew community. He also became an adjunct professor of Baptist studies and pastoral formation, recruiting and mentoring untold numbers of AfricanAmerican Theological School students who have gone on to serve in churches, large and small, throughout the United States and abroad. “Johnnie McCann is

singularly responsible for sending over 100 students to Drew Theological School,” said Dean Javier Viera. “And equally as remarkable was his generosity of spirit and financial resources for his alma mater.

Dr. McCann modeled for us all what it is like to maximize the benefits Drew has to offer, as well as what it looks like to give back to this place that so deeply impacted his life and ministry.”

The Sampson-McCann Scholarship had its genesis in 2015 at a gathering of Drew alumni and their friends at the annual Hampton University Ministers’ Conference in Hampton, Virginia. The group decided a scholarship named in memory and honor of Sampson and McCann was the perfect way to pay tribute and carry on his legacy of church-building, outreach and educational ministries, and community development. This scholarship provides financial support to Master of Divinity students pursuing social justice work in primarily urban, African-American churches and communities in the United States.

Drew alum Melaine Rochford T’16, who credits McCann for bringing her to Drew, used the award to help pay for her final semester at Drew. “If I can follow in their footsteps, and the path they’ve already blazed,” she says of Sampson and McCann, “then I think I’d be doing something great.”

The Rev. Dr. Kevin D. Miller T03,’08, a McCann recruit to Drew himself and Drew’s current Director of Theological Admissions equally notes, “Dr. McCann’s impact and mentorship has helped shape Drew’s future. Because of his commitment to educational excellence, he encouraged many of us to believe we would be better equipped for ministry by attending Drew. Dr. McCann was right.”

“Dr. J.G. McCann was Drew’s ambassador in the New York Metropolitan area. With unrivaled love for the church as a pastor and for Drew Theological School as a graduate, he led countless numbers of ministers to consider the idea of their own call and to matriculate in one of Drew’s many theological degrees,” said Gary Simpson, associate professor of homiletics at Drew, as he remembers his longtime friend and colleague. “He shepherded many to and through the call to ministry. A major void now remains in his untimely passing.”

Now the scholarship McCann helped establish is making it possible for future generations of students of color to answer their own calls to the ministry at Drew. To contribute to the Sampson-McCann Scholarship fund in McCann’s honor, please visit drew.edu/makeagift and click on “Tribute Information.”

For more information on our various degree programs and what our community offers you, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 973.408.3111 or visit drew.edu/theological-school. www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2019 The Positive Community

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Unleash Your Superpowers during Women Entrepreneurship Week 2019 at Berkeley College

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n October, Berkeley College joins institutions from 32 countries in celebrating Women Entrepreneurship Week, a global initiative to elevate the voices of women on key issues.

Women in Leadership: Unleashing Your Superpowers, a free event for business leaders, media professionals, students and educators, will be held at Berkeley College campuses in New York and New Jersey, and will focus on strategies for empowering women in business, marketing, media and journalism, and inspiring the next generation of women entrepreneurs. Attendees will meet a dynamic group of women leaders from a range of industries and professional organizations that support women and minorityowned businesses.

“I have loved my student experience every step of the way with the support of Berkeley administration, faculty, and staff. I couldn’t imagine being anywhere other than Berkeley.”

– Rebecca Scott

Marketing Communications

“Through Women Entrepreneurship Week at Berkeley College, we have established a diverse platform for exchanging ideas and experiences that educate and motivate our students to network and activate their voices for the good of their futures and of our society,” said Angela Harrington, Vice President of Communications and External Relations at Berkeley College.

During the event, Berkeley College will collect new and gently used business attire for its Career Clothing Boutique for students.

The event is free to attend, but registration is required.

For more information or to register visit BerkeleyCollege.edu/WEW. In New York Wednesday, October 16, 2019 Berkeley College in Midtown Manhattan (41st Street) 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

BerkeleyCollege.edu Berkeley College reserves the right to add, discontinue, or modify its programs and policies at any time. Modifications subsequent to the original publication of this document may not be reflected here. For up-to-date and detailed information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu and view our catalogs at BerkeleyCollege.edu/publications. For important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended these programs please visit: BerkeleyCollege.edu/disclosures

14

The Positive Community September 2019

In New Jersey Thursday, October 24, 2019 Berkeley College in Woodland Park, NJ 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. www.thepositivecommunity.com

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W

hen American Legacy magazine founder Rodney J. Reynolds launched his black history streaming service in August 2018 he was entering an entirely different line of business. Reynolds had spent the past 38 years in print media and had to make a decision on how he was going to transition his mainly print brand (other brands included a mobile truck exhibit, board game, and curriculum guide) to a digital product and remain relevant. “It was something that we had considered in the past but we needed assistance in navigating the minefields,” said Reynolds. In came a business consultant, who Reynolds credits with helping him strategize and re-evaluate his business model. Soon after, American LegacyXL was born which was eventually launched as American Legacy Network.

In August 2018, Reynolds and his new company American Legacy Network Corp. announced the launch of American Legacy Network (ALN), a subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) streaming service showcasing African-American history and culture programming and original content for the entire family.

“We’re excited about the potential of American Legacy Network," said Reynolds. "The streaming service is a natural transition in the evolution of our brand. ALN fills a void with content designed to entertain, inspire, empower, and educate the black community and is a network the entire family can enjoy.”

ALN subscribers are able to watch well-known classic black films like The River Niger and The Jackie Robinson Story while discovering new and original content developed and produced by independent producers and filmmakers like The Doll, produced by Dante James; and Robert Smalls: A Patriot’s Journey From Slavery To Capitol Hill, prothepositivecommunity.com The Positive Community September 2019

16

Leon Ellis

duced and directed by Doubleback Productions, headed by filmmaker Adrena Ifill. American Legacy Network features a news-oriented program and original programs including Conversations with Greatness hosted by Reynolds’ son JP Reynolds (Reynolds’ son R. Joshua Reynolds coordinates the company’s social media activities), Black Treasure with Robin Myers and Say it Loud, a program geared to millennials. ALN is planning to release its first historical, scripted drama in 2020, The Ballad, a great migration digital shorts anthology series.

In addition to the black history streaming service, American Legacy Network is looking to achieve dynamic growth with the expansion of its mobile truck exhibit.

The company conducted a tour earlier this year sponsored by the NHL, celebrating 200 years of black achievement in hockey. Another expanded tour is currently being planned for 2020. ALN Corp. is also exploring new distribution and marketing opportunities for its curriculum guide and “Know your History” board game.

The web/mobile friendly version of American Legacy Network is now available at www.americanlegacynetwork. tv for $3.99 per month. The company released its mobile Cadogan app on Google Play in By MayGlenda (the iOS version is pending approval) and has plans to be available soon on Roku and Apple TV. So what’s on the horizon for ALN? Reynolds said he’s looking forward to growing ALN’s audience base and beginning production on several original programs the company has under development, content he’s sure ALN’s audience will love. The company’s slogan is Black History Made Every Day. Given the focus of the American Legacy brand, ALN is certainly fulfilling its purpose and business objectives. — Helene Fox

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Summer 2017 The Positive Community 17 www.thepositivecommunity.com

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September 2019 The Positive Community

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NYS Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James greeting the people

Old Timers Day In Brownsville “Brownsville 4 Life”

BY KARLE WALKES

T

he month of July is special every year, especially the last weekend in the Brownsville community of Brooklyn. Usually thousands of people young and old look forward to attending and celebrating through sports, music, entertainment, food, and reconnecting relationships with lifelong friends and acquaintances.

Since 1963 this event has grown year after year without any violent incidents. State and City elected officials attend every year, they speak to the audience and share in the revelry. As a past resident of this great community, I will continue to attend and support this event in the coming years. As a senior citizen born and raised in this wonderful community, I marvel at the many positive things that have improved this area along with the scholars and athletes who continue to make us proud and put us on the map.

Brownsville Old Timers Day is the model that many communities have tried to replicate but have not quite reached the heights or standard set by this community.

Pricless performing at friday concert

Vender Jackie Tarvinro keeping the spirit alive

Congressman Hakeem Jeffries stopped by to show his support; he checked out the children developing their computer skills

Hon. Hakeem Jeffries looks in on the table tennis players

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The Positive Community September 2019

Old Timer Games basketball www.thepositivecommunity.com

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Health ideas for wellness

L–R: National Minority Quality Forum CEO Gary Puckerin, NY Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, former NY Knick Larry Johnson, and Vice President of Marketing Fidelis Care Scott Averill

Fidelis Community Health And Wellness Fair

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The Positive Community September 2019

Photos: Lem Peterkin

n Saturday, August 17th Fidelis Care hosted a day-long Health and Wellness Fair at Lincoln Terrace/ Arthur S. Somers Park, Brooklyn NY. The event offered free healthcare screenings for asthma, dental, vision, podiatry screening; breast health information, and breastfeeding education. In addition to health screening opportunities, those in attendance were treated to a free continental breakfast and BBQ-style lunch.

It was a fun-filled day for the family featuring a carnival with rides and games for the children, steel pan music, live entertainment, DJ’s, raffles, and a NYC Grow healthy produce giveaway. Special guest appearances included NY Knicks Legend, Larry Johnson and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

— TPC Staff

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children.

So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love.

Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered.

If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

Call: 1-888-FIDELIS Click: fideliscare.org/everychildcovered Visit: A Fidelis Care community office near you. Search for locations at fideliscare.org/offices

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)

TTY: 711

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

Photos Courtesy of Essex County

In Honor of Trish Morris Yamba

In Honor of Kenneth A. Gibson

Essex County Executive Divincenzo Dedicates Memorial Plaques Along Essex County Legends Way Bronze Plaques Recognize Community Leaders who Impacted Essex County ABOVE: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. (third from right) dedicated a bronze plaque in honor the late Trish Morris-Yamba, long-time Executive Director of The Newark Day Center and the Fresh Air Fund, on Wednesday, September 18th. Also having plaques dedicated in their honor were the late Pearl Beatty who was the first Freeholder President under the current form of County Government, the late Kenneth A. Gibson who was the first African-American Mayor of Newark who served 16 years, the late Lebby C. Jones who was an Irvington Councilwoman and member of the Board of Freeholders, and the late Ramon Rivera who was the founder and former Executive Director of La Casa de Don Pedro. The plaques are located along Essex County Legends Way at the Essex County Government Complex in Newark. With the County Executive are Morris-Yamba's husband Zachary Yamba (fourth from left), Essex County Deputy Chief of Staff William Payne (second from left) and Yamba's family members and friends.

ABOVE: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. (center) dedicated a bronze plaque in honor of the late Kenneth A. Gibson, who was the first AfricanAmerican Mayor of Newark who served 16 years, on Wednesday, September 18th. Also having plaques dedicated in their honor were the late Pearl Beatty who was the first Freeholder President under the current form of County Government, the late Lebby C. Jones who was an Irvington Councilwoman and member of the Board of Freeholders, the late Trish Morris-Yamba who was the long-time Executive Director of The Newark Day Center and the Fresh Air Fund and the late Ramon Rivera who was the founder and former Executive Director of La Casa de Don Pedro. The plaques are located along Essex County Legends Way at the Essex County Government Complex in Newark. With the County Executive are (from left) Assemblyman Ralph Caputo, Sheriff Armando Fontoura, Gibson's family members and friends, including his wife Camille, Lt Governor Sheila Oliver and Deputy Chief of Staff William Payne.

How a Small Mechanical Pump Gave One Patient her Life Back Denise Robinson, 58, a resident of Jersey City, had known for years that her heart was in bad shape. She was suffering from congestive heart failure and her medicines and pacemaker were becoming less effective. She needed a heart transplant, but due to other health conditions, she was not eligible.

Then the Advanced Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant team at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center offered her an option that changed her life: an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device). By inserting this mechanical pump directly into her heart, every organ of Denise’s body would receive more blood and oxygen than before, breathing would be easier, and she would have more energy and stamina.

“With a nationwide shortage of hearts for transplant, LVADs can both save lives and give patients a high quality of life,” says Margarita Camacho, MD, Surgical Director of the Cardiac Transplantation Program at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

Since receiving the LVAD, Denise has more energy than she has had in a long time. She’s completed a long-awaited visit with family in South Carolina, she took a vacation to Montreal and she led a heart health education program called “Rock the Red” for people in her community.

To schedule an appointment with a Newark Beth Israel cardiac specialist, visit www.rwjbh.org/heart.

2222322516 The Positive Community September 2019 Editorial m1.indd NBI Positive Community 7x4.75 Denise Robinson

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www.thepositivecommunity.com 9/19/19 11:44 AM

One of the World’s

Best Hospitals

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center It’s one thing to say that you are world renowned, and it’s quite another to be recognized as world renowned.

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is a destination for heart and lung transplant patients.

Premier hospitals from around the country send Newark Beth Israel their most complex cases, such as double heart and kidney transplant. Our cardiac program has been advancing research and perfecting innovative procedures. Our cancer program is a component of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. And our Children’s Hospital of New Jersey is known for caring for the most serious pediatric cases.

And now, the world knows.

rwjbh.org/newarkbeth

KAHLIL KAHLIL CARMICHAEL CARMICHAEL THE THE FITNESS FITNESS DOCTOR DOCTOR Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey.

Kahlil MAPCC, CPT isDoctor, the pastor of Liveand Well Church,consulting in Somerset, New Jersey.

He is aCarmichael fitness specialist atMDIV, The Fitness a fitness wellness company; and the He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine.

His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.

Joyful Joyful Advice Advice

II

love heeding the advice of people who have made love heeding the grace adviceofofGod) people who dark have nights made their way (by the through theirexperienced way (by the the grace God) and joy of and freshthrough winds ofdark the nights mornthewell joy and fresh winds oftothe morning.and It experienced is inspiring, as as encouraging, hear the ing. Itofissomeone inspiring,who as well as encouraging, hear the story has shifted from livingtounhealthy story of someone who has shifted from living unhealthy to healthy, from brokenness to wholeness. to healthy, from brokenness to wholeness.

The advice from such individuals is priceless. Someadvice such individuals is priceless. oneThe once said, from “Advice is like cooking—you shouldSometry it one once is like cooking—you it before yousaid, feed“Advice it to others.”

A popular blogshould writertry says beforeare youfour feed it to others.”

A popular blog never writer take says there people from whom you should there are four people from whom you should never take advice: advice: t A Preacher who is not living what he or she preaches t A Preacher who is not living what he or she preaches t Marital advice from someone who has never t been Marital advice from someone who has never married been married t A financial adviser who is broke t A financial adviser who is broke t A fitness trainer who is overweight and out of shape t A fitness trainer who is overweight and out of shape As a pastor and owner of the Fitness Doctor Wellness As a pastor andconstantly owner ofoffering the Fitness Doctor Wellness Consulting, I am sound and practical Consulting, I am constantly offeringhealing sound and practical advice to help people experience Spirit, Mind, advice to help experience Mind, and Body.

I callpeople this advice “joyful healing advice.” Spirit, Joyful advice and Body.

I call thislive advice advice.” helps us live whole, well,“joyful and live free. Joyful advice helps us is live whole, live advice well, and live free.

Here some joyful to help you incorporate a Here is exercise some joyful advice to your help life. you incorporate a consistent regimen into consistent exercise regimen into your life. t Be truthful with yourself concerning the amount of t time Be truthful yourself concerning the out amount of you canwith honestly commit to working and be time you can honestly commit to working out and be consistent.

Exercise is about consistency and intensity; consistent. about consistency and intensity; it is better Exercise to work is out for one day with the proper it is better to work out fitness for onelevel dayand withhealth the proper intensity specific to your condiintensity to your fitness level condition thanspecific it is to workout everyday forand twohealth months and tion than is to workout everyday quit.

Nowitthat’s some joyful advice!for two months and quit. Now that’s some joyful advice! t If you can not afford a personal trainer to help you get t in If you canfind not afford a personal to help youproget shape an affordable yettrainer effective fitness in shape find an affordable yet effective fitness pro-

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gram at your local YMCA or church. Live Well Church gram church at your local or church.

Live Well Church (the I amYMCA privileged to pastor), located in (the church I am privileged locatedwith in Windsor (Robbinsville), offerstoa pastor), free workout Windsor attention (Robbinsville), offers trainers a free workout with personal from fitness every Thurspersonal fromthrough fitness our trainers every Thursday from attention 6:00-7:00 pm fit care program. day from 6:00-7:00 through our fit care program.

Call Deacon Karenpm Beasley (732) 912-4435 for an Call Deacon Karen Beasley (732) 912-4435 for an appointment. appointment. t Weightlifting is vital to any fitness regimen. The good t news Weightlifting is vital fitnesstoregimen.

Theasgood is that it’s not to as any difficult get started you news isthink. that it’s as difficult to get started as you might Of not course, we understand the value of might think.

Of course, we understand thetrainer value to of utilizing and hiring a professional personal utilizing and hiring a professional personal to help us learn the proper way to safely buildtrainer strength help us learn the proper wayBut to safely build through resistance training. you can getstrength started through training.

Butweights you cantoget started on your resistance own by lifting lighter learn the on yourform. own Utilize by lifting lighter weights toto learn the proper an app or YouTube help you proper form.

Utilize an app or YouTube you get started then go hire a trainer to start to thehelp process gettransformation. started then go hire a trainer to start the process of of transformation.

I offer this sound advice as someone who lives what he I offer this advice as someone who lives what he preaches.

Forsound the past twenty years, I have helped peopreaches.

Forgrace the past twenty years, I have helpedtrainpeople

by God’s and the Fitness Doctor personal ple by God’s grace and the ing overcome the effects ofFitness obesityDoctor relatedpersonal illnesses.trainThe ing overcome the too, effects obesity related illnesses.

The good news is you, canofget healthy though consistent good news is healthy you, too,eating. can getNow healthy consistent exercise and that’sthough something to be exercise and healthy eating.

Now that’s something to be happy about.

Peace and blessings! happy about. Peace and blessings!

Live Whole, Live Well, Live Free.

Live Whole, Live Well, Live Free.

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

www.thepositivecommunity.com

9/25/19 7:32 PM

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Contact us for confidential answers: 1-855-GO-AMIDA (1-855-462-6432), TTY 711 www.AmidaCareNY.org www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2019 The Positive Community

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Photos: Bob Gore

CALVINBUTTS S

ome people will tell you they were put on this earth to do one thing, and do it well. Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III strives to do all things well, and it shows. It’s not surprising once you get to know him a little bit, “I was concerned about getting good grades and pleasing my parents,” he reminisced of his adolescent self. “I had wonderful, hardworking parents and together they poured a lot into their only child.” Seemingly, the essence they poured into young Calvin not only nourished and nurtured him, but filled and fueled him to affect change and impact thousands of life through his.

In addition to his parents, education and religion played important parts in molding Butts. Both encouraged his curiosity and sense of justice, which would later serve him well as a minister and an educator. As pastor of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, Butts shepherds his

www.thepositivecommunity.com

By R.L. Witter flock from a thorough knowledge of scripture. As president at SUNY at Old Westbury, he advocates for his students, faculty, and community. A humble yet confident man, he encourages congregants and students to ask questions and challenge theories. He welcomes their curiosity. “Ignorance is the biggest impediment to the improvement of our soci-

As pastor of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, Butts shepherds his flock from a thorough knowledge of scripture. As president at SUNY at Old Westbury, he advocates for his students, faculty, and community.

cont’d on next page

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CALVIN BUTTS cont’d from previous page

ety,” he says. “So I am encouraging, pressing every day that people strive to get a good education—that’s why we work so hard to provide access and accountability.”

There’s no doubt he works hard. He’s done so all of his life. Inspired at the age of 12 by a speech by Morehouse College Alum Rev. Dr. William E. Gardner, Butts set his sights on a Morehouse education and after attaining his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy there, went on to earn a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary and a Doctorate of Ministry in Church and Public Policy from Drew University. His experience as an Urban Affairs instructor, professor of African American Studies at City College, and teaching Black Church History at Fordham University in addition to his ministerial acumen made him a logical choice to helm Old Westbury back in 1999; or perhaps that was divine intervention. His personal mantra states: “Education and faith are the Tigress and the Euphrates of our liberation; twin rivers at the source of our redemption. Without a trained mind and an inspired heart, you will go nowhere.”

Twenty years later as he prepares to retire, Butts reflects fondly on his time and accomplishments at Old Westbury.

“Our diversity has brought more opportunity to young men and women,” he said fondly. “Now we have a legacy… in some families three generations have attended our school.” That’s no small feat considering Old Westbury was once one of New

His personal mantra states: “Education and faith are the Tigress and the Euphrates of our liberation; twin rivers at the source of our redemption. Without a trained mind and an inspired heart, you will go nowhere.”

York’s best kept secrets. “We were sequestered; people didn’t know we were here. But as a result of the cabinet I serve with and the activities I was involved in before I got here, we are now better known across Long Island, the state of New York, and the country… we have a much broader reach.”

Butts combined his leadership skills with the school’s increased visibility to boost enrollment and diversity. He used those numbers to make a case for more and better facilities and followed through to make incredible improvements to the campus. “We’ve built a new academic building, new dormitories, a new student union building, and a new police headquarters,” he explained. But wait, there’s more.

“We continue to build; and we’re looking now at building a large, $130 million STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) center for our students.” Butts stressed the importance of access for these students especially. “Our students are smart enough to go to Harvard and those other schools, but they can’t afford it. So we aim to provide these students with the best opportunities, the best faculty, and the best facilities.” He takes education seriously and his passion is fed by the knowledge that education beyond high school is a pathway to better employment and better standards of living. “We need to come together as poor people in this nation,” he said, “and begin to DEMAND that our government provide for us equal opportunities in terms of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Perhaps one of the major benefits of Butts’ leadership at Old Westbury is his religious calling in the church and how he is able to seamlessly combine the two without overstepping the boundaries between a secular education and spiritual guidance. A devout Christian, he encourages others to embrace their own religious beliefs and faith practices and acknowledges the similarities between most major faiths. “I know God through Christ,” he explained. “But because a person says, ‘I am Muslim and I know God through Allah and the revelation He gave the Prophet Muhammad and I am going to seek peace, love, and justice,’ we’re the same people… we believe fundamentally in the same thing.” Butts supports his congregants’ curiosity and thirst for information equally as much as he does his students’. His approach creates space for people to learn, explore, and grow.

Butts also possesses a certain amount of cultural currency among the student body. In addition to being known for his

Dr. Butts greets a student.

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ministry, ministry, teaching, teaching, and and community community building, building, many many of of Old Old Westbury’s students know him through some of their ministry, teaching, community building, many Old Westbury’s studentsand know him through some of theiroffavorfavorite music. has checked in by Westbury’s students knowname him through of their favorite music. Butts Butts has been been name checkedsome in songs songs by several several major rappers Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Ice ite music.

Buttsincluding has been name in songs byand several major rappers including Bone checked Thugs-N-Harmony and Ice Cube.

He also held his own in a debate with Ice-T regarding major He rappers including Thugs-N-Harmony and Ice Cube. also held his ownBone in a debate with Ice-T regarding the content of hip music.

Cube.

He also his own in a debate with Ice-T regarding the content of held hip hop hop music.

As he prepares to close his theAs content of hip hop music. he prepares to close his chapter chapter as as president president at at Old Old Westbury, Butts reflects upon what he considers one of As he prepares to close his chapter president one at Old Westbury, Butts reflects upon what heasconsiders of his greatest accomplishments in his 20 years there.

“RevivWestbury, reflects uponinwhat heyears considers of his greatestButts accomplishments his 20 there. one “Reviving the and Westbury, treat it his greatest in his 20 years to there. ing the spirit spiritaccomplishments and mission mission of of Old Old Westbury, to treat“Revivit like like it’s pearl of great value nourish it speak to ing aathe spirit of Old Westbury, treat it like it’s pearl of and greatmission value and and nourish it so so it ittocan can speak to the needs of poor people.”

He recalled an interview upon it’s aneeds pearlof ofpoor greatpeople.” value and so interview it can speak to the Henourish recalledit an upon his at the when commented, “the the arrival needs of people.”

He someone recalled an interview upon his arrival at poor the school school when someone commented, “the school is aa beat replied, his arrival at theWithout school missing when someone commented, “the school is dead.” dead.”

Without missing beat Butts Butts replied, “Well “Well you have somebody in the right business, resurrection.”

He school is dead.”

Without a beat Butts replied, “Well you have somebody in themissing right business, resurrection.”

He leaves the position of president of Old Westbury with the you have in president the right business, resurrection.”

He leaves thesomebody position of of Old Westbury with the largest enrollment highest standards its leaves the position and of president of Old Westbury within largest enrollment and highest admissions admissions standards inthe its history, making it more competitive than ever.

But in the largest enrollment and highest admissions standards its history, making it more competitive than ever.

But ininthe true fashion of educator and activist history, making more competitive Buthe the true fashion of aait dedicated dedicated educatorthan and ever. activist heinsaid, said, “I’ll stop for Westbury, the Unitrue never fashion of working a dedicated educator andor he said, “I’ll never stop working for Old Old Westbury, oractivist the State State University, or the City University; I’ll be an advocate for public “I’ll never stopCity working for Old or the State University, or the University; I’llWestbury, be an advocate for public higher versity, education.” or the City University; I’ll be an advocate for public higher education.”

While he higher education.”

While he is is technically technically retiring, retiring, Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Calvin Calvin O. O. Butts, Butts, III will undoubtedly continue his work as an educator, he is technically retiring, O. Butts,aa III While will undoubtedly continue his Rev. workDr. as Calvin an educator, minister, aa husband, and grandfather.

He’ll continue III will undoubtedly continue work as an educator, minister, husband, father, father, and his grandfather.

He’ll continuea to touch lives, shepherd souls, improve communities, and minister, husband, father, and improve grandfather.

He’ll continue to touch alives, shepherd souls, communities, and spread both knowledge and love.

“One of the driving forces to touch lives, shepherdand souls, and spread both knowledge love.improve “One ofcommunities, the driving forces in my has been my and spread both knowledge and love.

“One of proud the driving forces in my life life has been to to make make my parents parents proud and happy happy with things II was explained.

“At point in mythe life has been to makehe parents proud and happy with the things was doing,” doing,” hemy explained.

“At another another point in my life it was elevated to pleasing God.” While I can only with was doing,” he explained. another in mythe lifethings it wasI elevated to pleasing God.”“At While I canpoint only speak as an earthly being, I think it’s safe to say Butts has in my life it was elevated to Ipleasing God.” can only speak as an earthly being, think it’s safe While to say IButts has done exactly that.

Well done, Sir; mission accomplished. speak exactly as an earthly being, I think it’s safeaccomplished. to say Butts has done that. Well done, Sir; mission done exactly that. Well done, Sir; mission accomplished.

SUNY—Old SUNY—Old Westbury Westbury SUNY—Old Westbury

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Twenty Twenty years years later later as as he he prepares prepares to to rereTwenty years later as he prepares to retire, tire, Butts Butts reflects reflects fondly fondly on on his his time time and and tire, Butts reflects fondly on his time and accomplishments accomplishments at at Old Old Westbury.

Westbury. “Our “Our accomplishments at Old Westbury. “Our diversity diversity has has brought brought more more opportunity opportunity to to diversity has brought more opportunity to young young men men and and women,” women,” he he said said fondly. fondly. young men and women,” he said fondly.

“Now “Now we we have have a a legacy legacy .. .. .. in in some some famfam“Now we have a legacy . . . in some families ilies three three generations generations have have attended attended our our ilies three generations have attended our school.” school.” That’s That’s no no small small feat feat considering considering school.” That’s no small feat considering Old Old Westbury Westbury was was once once one one of of New New York’s York’s Old Westbury was once one of New York’s best best kept kept secrets. secrets. best kept secrets.

September 2019 The Positive Community

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Education the art + science of learning

SUNY Board Chairman Retires H. Carl McCall Honored

New York State Senator Kevin S. Parker

L–R: Jaques DeGraff, Lloyd Williams

“S

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L–R: Lolita and Frank Savage

Photos: Raymond Hagans

erving as SUNY Board Chairman has been one of my greatest joys and I could never thank Governor Cuomo enough for the opportunity,” said Chairman H. Carl McCall, announcing his retirement last April. “It has been both rewarding and challenging to help direct the academic fates of our nation’s brightest stars.” McCall’s retirement became official on June 30, 2019.

After more than 50 years serving the public, State University of New York Chairman H. Carl McCall is looking forward to retirement. He plans to write a memoir, taking time to reflect on where his career began and on his decades in public life. Since he was first elected in 1974 as a state senator, he has gone on to serve as U.N. ambassador, state comptroller and as president of the New York City Board of Education. As he put it, “I’ve had a very interesting career in government, in politics, in business—and I’ve learned a lot.

I have met a lot of interesting people. So, a lot of the memoir will be about the people I’ve met along the way and how they’ve helped me.”

On Monday, June 25, 2019, the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan was the site of a celebration for McCall, where the who’s who in politics, business, and education were on hand for “A Legacy of Empowerment”—A Retirement Celebration for H. Carl McCall. The newly established McCall Scholarship, created to provide assistance and mentorship to SUNY students in pursuit of public service, will benefit from the proceeds. —TPC Staff

State University of New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology President Joyce F. Brown, Mrs. McCall

L–R: Former New York City Mayor David N. Dinkins, Former Harlem Congressman Charles B. Rangel, and Former Governor of New York David Paterson www.thepositivecommunity.com

Kevin Parker NYS Senate

21st Senate District Celebrating Chairman McCall On His Illustrious Career and Retirement I just want to say thank you to Chairman McCall for being a friend, mentor, and leader for so many of us.

Your leadership, dedication, integrity, and sagacity will continue to permeate and live on through all of the lives you touched and inspired such as mine.

Congratulations, Comptroller and Chairman Carl McCall!

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF KEVIN PARKER

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illar College is a regionally accredited and growing institution that seeks to grow with expertise in addressing the many issues and barriers to higher education for diverse and capable working and adult learners. Pillar strives to make learning opportunities highly accessible with innovative and evidence-based academic and social support services and programs for its students. To strategically position itself as a leader in educating young and mature working adult learners in the diverse community it serves, Pillar incorporates programs that include cultural adaptation, early introduction to disciplinary studies and professional career topics, basic and life skills for financial management and personal responsibility through extended orientation courses, comprehensive academic support services, and building institutional capacity to perpetuate intercultural self-awareness and resilience in students.

Through these innovative programs, Pillar College will position itself to become a leader in higher education for a diverse, urban and adult population.

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Pillar Is Making An Impact Pillar strives to make learning opportunities highly accessible with innovative and evidencebased academic and social support services and programs for its students.

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ounded in 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy College is an independent, coeducational college that offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs within five schools: Business, Education, Health and Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts and Social and Behavioral Sciences. The vibrancy of the College culture is sustained by a diverse student body representing 38 states and 35 counties. The College offers campuses in Dobbs Ferry, Bronx, Manhattan and Yorktown Heights with additional teaching locations in New Rochelle, Brooklyn and Harlem as well as online offerings.

Focusing on Students First The PACT Program at Mercy College is a nationally recognized program that provides intrusive advising where mentors intentionally engage students in the areas of academic advising and academic interventions, major to career

exploration, financial literacy and student engagement. The program has been extraordinarily effective in helping retain students, and since it began the retention rate for first-time freshmen has increased by over 15 percentage points, and first-time undergraduate transfer retention has averaged over 80%.

The PACT program has grown to include not only undergraduate students, but graduate students as well. The expansion of the PACT program provides Mercy College students with a true one-stop shop advising experience.

National Ranking Recognitions The College’s focus on putting students first has resulted in outstanding recognition from numerous prestigious sources. Mercy was recognized in three categories on the U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best College Rankings in the categories of Best Regional Universities North group

for Social Mobility, Campus Ethnic Diversity and Best Regional University. Mercy was also recognized by The Wall Street Journal / Times Higher Education (WSJ/ THE) College Rankings 2020.

This is the first time Mercy has been recognized in the publication’s Northeast Region category and reaffirms Mercy as a leader in providing a quality education that ensures successful outcomes.

Mercy has also been named Westchester Magazine’s 2019 Best College in Westchester and was acknowledged by the White House in 2015 as a “Bright Spot in Hispanic Education.”

“Mercy is dedicated to establishing programs that close achievement gaps and drive college completion,” said Tim Hall, Mercy College President. “These rankings confirm that Mercy has made significant strides in supporting students throughout their education and meeting their diverse needs.”

Learn more about Mercy programs visit www.mercy.edu to schedule a campus tour 34

The Positive Community September 2019

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New, High-Tech Spaces and Facilities

Affordable Living in Iconic Manhattan Fall 2020

Innovative Residential Experience

Easy to Access from the Metro Area

Welcome to our NEW 34th Street Herald Square campus The opening of MercyManhattan is truly a historic event. We are fulfilling a promise made long ago: to put a quality

college education within reach of those who have the passion to succeed. MercyManhattan is completely redesigned as a modern, urban campus. Our new undergraduate and graduate degree programs can be completed entirely in Manhattan. And best of all, MercyManhattan offers one of the most affordable private tuitions in New York State, so talented, determined students can thrive during their college career and beyond.

Learn more at:

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Photos: Bruce Moore

L–R: Belinda Faye Mahone, Donald C. Notice, Assemblywoman Inez Dickens, Barbara Askins, Arian R. and Malcolm Punter

Annual Inez Dickens Birthday Boat Ride

L–R: Hon. Charles Rangel; Inez Dickens; and Londel Davis, Sr.

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arlem’s elite came out to celebrate the popular NYS Assemblywoman Inez Dickens’ annual birthday boat-ride on the Hudson. For more photos go to thepositivecommunity.com

Community Church of God Reverend Antonio Porter Leads Church into a New Era

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he word of God is alive in the spirit of Antonio Porter. His passion, love, and fervor for God’s word are manifest in his preaching. His obedience to the call of ministry is evidenced in his leadership and his commitment to the demands of ministry is affirmed by his availability.

After nearly a year as their interim pastor, in February 2019 the congregation at Community Church of God in Plainfield, NJ elected Rev. Porter to senior pastor. He accepted to the call.

Reverend Porter has served in various pastoral roles, foremost at First Hopewell Baptist Church in Newark, and Fountain Baptist Church in Summit. Prior to joining the ministry, Porter attended New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) with a concentration in Industrial Administration.

In 2005 he received a Master of Divinity [M.Div.] from New Brunswick Theological Seminary.

In 2005 he was the recipient of the Reverend James Eelman Prize in Preaching. This is awarded to the student who demonstrated excellence by exploring the nature and development of preaching in a given ecclesiastical tradition.

Reverend Porter is married to the former Cheryll Howes. They have two children, Antoine Terrell and Whitney Marie. —TPC Staff

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The Positive Community September 2019

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September 2019 The Positive Community

37

Education Teaching, Learning, Making a Difference

newaRk PuBlic scHools’ H ome -G Rown l eadeR

Raymond Hagans

Roger León plans to meet great expectations as Superintendent

O

ne of the first things Roger León did when he became Superintendent of Newark’s Public Education System was visit kindergarten classroom 107 in Hawkins Street School, where he began his education and later taught fifth grade. “That was an absolutely incredible experience,” he recalled, “to not only know the building itself, but to know everyone there. Sometimes when interacting with the students I could remember either their parents or cousins, with whom I went to school.

“Hawkins is home,” Superintendent León continues, “and it symbolizes a lot of important realities when I walk

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The Positive Community September 2019

By g.r.mattox into that building—connections, unity—all of the important people who impacted my life and the realization of dreams.”

The path from Room 107 to the top position in Newark Public Schools has been one of total involvement. Born in the city, León has lived there all his life, and worked for the district for over 25 years. His dedication to the Newark’s children and his allegiance to New Jersey’s largest city are foremost in his mind and evident to all. He is known as a problem solver and leader with a long record of success.

León’s most recent appointment is, in fact, a new era for the Newark Board of Education. After more than two www.thepositivecommunity.com

decades under state control, the city gained complete audecades under state control, the city complete audecades under state control, the matters city gained gained complete authority and final say over district and the power to thority and final say over district matters and the power to thority and final say over district matters and the power to hire and fire the schools’ chief in February 2018.

The board hire and fire the schools’ chief in February 2018.

The board hire and fire the schools’ chief in February 2018.

The board unanimously offered him the leadership of over 35,000 stuunanimously offered him the of over stuunanimously offered him the leadership leadership ofover over6635,000 35,000 stu-a dents and almost 6,000 employees spread schools dents and almost 6,000 employees spread over 66 schools aa dents and almost 6,000 employees spread over 66 schools year ago in May. year ago in May. year ago inBoard May. Vice-President Dawn Haynes remains enToday, Today, Board Vice-President Dawn Haynes enToday, Board Vice-President Dawn Haynes remains remains enthusiastic and hopeful, and sees León providing something thusiastic and hopeful, and sees León providing something thusiastic and hopeful, and sees León providing something the city has been missing for a long time, “that grassroots, the city missing for long time, “that the city has has been been missing for aathe long time,student “that grassroots, grassroots, homegrown Newark energy,” former and now homegrown Newark energy,” the former student and now homegrown Newark energy,” the former student and now mother of four children in city schools observed.

“He is what mother of four children in city schools observed.

“He is what mother of four children in city schools observed.

“He is what Newark schools needed.

We went through the whole process Newark schools needed. through the whole process Newark schools needed. We We went went through the whole process of selecting a superintendent and no one gave the energy of selecting a superintendent and no one gave the energy of selecting a superintendent and no one gave the energy and the passion that I felt from Superintendent León. and the passion that I felt from Superintendent León. and“Right the passion that I felt from Superintendent León. now, we have to seize every opportunity we can to “Right now, we to seize opportunity we to “Right now, we have have to seize every every opportunity we can can to make things work,” she continued.

“Everything is not going make things work,” she continued.

“Everything is not going make things work,” she continued.

“Everything is not going to be perfect, but we’re working towards excellence.

II see to be perfect, but we’re working towards excellence. see to bemy perfect, butfeel we’re working towards excellence.

I parsee how children about our school system, and as a how my children feel about our school system, and as a parhow my children feel about our school system, and as a parent, it gives me an additional perspective.

II believe it’s workent, it me perspective. ent, it gives gives me an an additional additional perspective.

I believe believe it’s it’s workworking; it’s connecting, it’s clicking, and I’m grateful.” ing; it’s connecting, it’s clicking, and I’m grateful.” ing;After it’s connecting, it’s clicking, and I’m grateful.” graduating from Hawkins Street, León attended After graduating from Hawkins Street, León After High graduating from Hawkins Street, León attended attended Science and then Rutgers, New Brunswick.

His plan Science High and then Rutgers, New Brunswick.

His plan Science High and then Rutgers, New Brunswick.

His plan early on was to become a pediatrician, but after earning early on was to become a pediatrician, but after earning early on was to become a pediatrician, but after earning needed funds for his education by becoming aa teacher’s asneeded funds for his education by asneeded funds for his freshman education classes, by becoming becoming a teacher’s teacher’s assistant in one of the he had a change of sistant in one of the freshman classes, he had a change of sistant in one of the freshman classes, he had a change of heart.

“I always knew I could teach, and teach really well,” he heart.

“I always knew I could teach, and teach really well,” he heart.

“I always knew I could teach, and teach really well,” he remembered.

“That whole experience and the interaction remembered.

“That experience and interaction remembered.

“That whole whole experience andorthe the interaction with college students who looked like me their financial with college students who looked like me or their with college students who looked like me or their financial financial status was the same as mine, I felt what would be the greatest status status was was the the same same as as mine, mine, II felt felt what what would would be be the the greatest greatest difference in their lives and that of their families and comdifference in their lives and that of their families and comdifference in their lives and that of their families and community would be a good education.

I saw an ability to help munity would be a good education.

I saw an ability to help munity would be a good education.

I saw an ability to help other children realize they had their abilities.” other children realize they had their abilities.” other children realize they had their abilities.”

Back to teach at Hawkins Street after earning aa BacheBack Back to to teach teach at at Hawkins Hawkins Street Street after after earning earning a BacheBachelors in Biological Science, León also served as head coach lors in Biological Science, León also served as head coach lors in Biological Science, León also served as head coach of the Science High Debate Team, which went on to win of the Science High Debate Team, which went on to win of the Science High Debate Team, which went on to win local, state, and national championships.

He taught Algebra local, state, and national championships.

He taught Algebra local, state, and national championships. He taught Algebra II to eighth graders at Rafael Hernandez Elementary School I to to eighth eighth graders graders at at Rafael Rafael Hernandez Hernandez Elementary Elementary School School under a special pilot project, then went on to be principal under aa special pilot project, then went on to be principal under special pilot project, then went on to be principal of the William Horton School for four years and at Univerof the William Horton School for four and Univerof the William Horton School for four years years and at at instrucUniversity High for six.

At Horton he stressed data-driven sity High for six.

At Horton he stressed data-driven instrucsity High for six.

At Horton he stressed data-driven instruction, encouraged parent and community involvement, and tion, tion, encouraged encouraged parent parent and and community community involvement, involvement, and and placed strong emphasis on academic achievement.

Under placed strong emphasis on academic achievement.

Under placed strong emphasis on academic achievement.

Under his leadership at University, the school became number one his leadership at University, the became number his leadership atone University, theinschool school became number one one in the city, and of the best the state and nation. in in the the city, city, and and one one of of the the best best in in the the state state and and nation. nation.

Receiving his Masters in Administration and Supervision Receiving his Masters in Administration and Receiving hisState, Masters in served Administration and Supervision Supervision from Montclair León as a turnaround principal from from Montclair Montclair State, State, León León served served as as aa turnaround turnaround principal principal

His dedication to to the Newark’s Newark’s children His His dedication dedication to the the Newark’s children children and his allegiance to New Jersey’s largest and and his his allegiance allegiance to to New New Jersey’s Jersey’s largest largest city are foremost foremost in his his mind and and evident city city are are foremost in in his mind mind and evident evident to all.

He is known as a problem solver to to all. all. He He is is known known as as a a problem problem solver solver and leader leader with a a long record record of success. success. and and leader with with a long long record of of success. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Today, Board Vice-President Dawn Haynes Today, Today, Board Board Vice-President Vice-President Dawn Dawn Haynes Haynes remains enthusiastic and hopeful, and remains remains enthusiastic enthusiastic and and hopeful, hopeful, and and sees León providing something the city sees sees León León providing providing something something the the city city has been missing for a long time, “that has has been been missing missing for for a a long long time, time, “that “that grassroots, homegrown Newark energy,” grassroots, grassroots, homegrown homegrown Newark Newark energy,” energy,” for 10 10 years, years, going going to to other schools schools to to help redefine redefine their for their for 10 and years, going to other other schools to help help redefine their focus strengthen the application of the curriculum. focus and strengthen the application of the curriculum. focus and strengthen the application of the curriculum.

For the the past past 10 years, years, he he served served as as assistant assistant superintendent, superintendent, For For the pastto10 10stress years,high he served as assistant superintendent, continuing achievement for the students and continuing to stress high achievement for the students continuing to stress high achievement for the students and and helped drive numerous educational reforms. helped drive numerous educational reforms. helped drive numerous educational reforms.

Superintendent León León is is concentrating on on the the continued continued Superintendent Superintendent León is concentrating concentrating on but the continued improvement in attendance and academics, just as imimprovement in and academics, but just imimprovement in attendance attendance andthat academics, but just as aschilimportant is developing a system will give Newark’s portant is developing a system that will give Newark’s chilportant is developing a system that will give Newark’s children the the best best possible possible educational educational opportunities, opportunities, something something dren dren the take best possible educational opportunities, something that will time and preparation.

He has the support of of that will take time and preparation.

He has the support that will take time and preparation.

He has the support of another son of Newark, Mayor Ras Baraka, who was a prinanother son of Newark, Mayor Ras Baraka, who was aa prinanother son of Newark, Mayor Ras Baraka, who was principal when when León León was was assistant assistant superintendent. superintendent. “I “I just just want cipal want cipal when Leónthe wassuperintendent assistant superintendent.

“I the just same want people to know and I are on people to know the superintendent and I are on the same people to know the superintendent and I are on the same page,” the the mayor mayor announced announced at at aa community community forum forum earlier page,” page,” theReferring mayor announced at a community forum earlier earlier this year. to the revolving door of state-appointed this year.

Referring to the revolving door of state-appointed this year.

Referring to the revolving door of state-appointed superintendents that that have have occupied occupied the the office office in in the the past superintendents past superintendents that have occupied theaoffice in the past two decades, “It hasn’t been that way for very long time.” two decades, “It hasn’t been that way for a very long time.” two“Idecades, “It hasn’t been that way for a very long time.” think with with us us having local local control, control, the the superintendent superintendent “I “I think think with us having having local control, the superintendent being as passionate as he is about our schools, our mayor mayor bebeing being as as passionate passionate as as he he is is about about our our schools, schools, our our mayor bebeing as passionate as he is about our city, and the two of them them ing ing as as passionate passionate as as he he is is about about our our city, city, and and the the two two of of them working together together —that’s —that’s what what we’ve we’ve been been missing missing for for the working working together —that’s what we’ve been missing for the the last 22 years,” Haynes noted.

“We have now a collaboration last 22 years,” Haynes noted.

“We have now a collaboration last 22 years,” Haynes noted.

“We have now a collaboration that fuels fuels the most most powerful entity entity in the the city.” that that fuels the the most powerful powerful entity in in the city.” city.”

“In order for us go get where we want to go go there are are oth“In “In order order for for us us go go get get where where we we want want to to go there there are othother things that have to happen to live up to that expectation,” er things that have to happen to live up to that expectation,” er things that have to happen to live up to that expectation,” he explained, explained, saying saying some some things things may may not not get get done done as as soon soon he he explained, saying some things maytime. not get doneexpectaas soon as people might want, and will take “Their as as people people might might want, want, and and will will take take time. time. “Their “Their expectaexpectations are are things things that that are are of of concern concern to to me me also. also. Whatever Whatever has has tions tions are things that are of concern to me also.

Whatever has to get done will get done.” to done will get done.” to get get done will get done.”

In the the final final third of of aa two-year two-year transition transition program program to to meet In Inrequirements the final third thirdand of a with two-year transition program toonmeet meet state two glowing evaluations the state requirements and with two glowing evaluations on the state requirements and with two glowing evaluations on the district’s progress, León closely monitors the further develdistrict’s district’s progress, progress, León León closely closely monitors monitors the the further further develdevelopment of of the the pre-kindergarten, pre-kindergarten, which which recently recently instituted instituted aa opment opment of the pre-kindergarten, which recently instituted summer session for children entering the program, speciala summer session for children entering the program, aaa special summer session for children entering the program, special education program program for hearing hearing impaired students students working education education program for for hearing impaired impaired students working working with Gallaudet Gallaudet University, University, and and is is making making sure sure parents parents are are with with Gallaudet University, and is decide makingtosure parents are satisfied regardless of where they send their chilsatisfied regardless of where they decide to send their chilsatisfied regardless of where they decide to send their children to to school. school. dren dren to school.

“Newark today is is different different from from when when II was was aa child child and “Newark today “Newark todayhave is different from when Icity wasisachanging,” child and and what the schools to do is adjust as the what the schools have to do is adjust as the city is changing,” what the schools have to do is adjust as the city is changing,” Superintendent León León said. said. “The “The challenge challenge II have have is is making making Superintendent Superintendent León said. “The challenge Iits have is making sure every school in Newark, regardless of type, regardsure every school in regardless of its regardsure every school in Newark, Newark, regardless ofchild its type, type, regardless of where a parent wants to send their —from the less less of of where where aa parent parent wants wants to to send send their their child child —from —from the the school closest to your house to the school farthest away —is school closest to your house to the school farthest away —is school closest to your house to the school farthest away —is worthy to to receive and and educate our our children.” worthy worthy to receive receive and educate educate our children.” children.”

September 2019 The Positive Community

39

Culture

music, art + literature

AACEO Meets in Brooklyn

A

New York State Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James Photos: Bishop Stacey Latimer

ntioch Baptist Church hosted the monthly African American Clergy and Elected Officials (AACEO) Community Empowerment breakfast on the first Friday of September. Spirited speakers included New York City Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza and New York State Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James.

Founded in 1989, AACEO serves as a conduit for networking and information sharing between all levels of governments and faith-based institutions to address issues important to African Americans and communities of color.

In addition to the generous supply of knowledge and food for thought, the more than one hundred interested parties in attendance were treated to a tasty, hearty breakfast. Divinah “Dee” Bailey serves as chief operating officer for AACEO. Antioch Baptist Church Senior Pastor Dr. Robert M. Waterman is president.

L–R: Dee Bailey and AACEO President Robert M. Waterman

New York City Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza

Rev Gwen Dingle delivering the prayer

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The Positive Community September 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

L–R: Melba Moore with Executive Director Mayor’s Office of Arts, Cultural Development and Tourism Gwen Moten

Photos: Raymond Hagans

Ajada Reigns onstage

Newark Showcases Local Talent Singer Melba Moore, famous for her magnificent five octave voice, wowed the crowd

www.thepositivecommunity.com

N

ewark Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the Newark Municipal Council hosted the 4th annual Positive Music Matters Neighborhood Concert Series. Each year Newark celebrates diverse musical talents and creative gifts of local artists throughout all five wards. On August 29th in the Central Ward, legendary R&B songstress Melba Moore headlined the finale of the concert series. Ms. Moore was joined by a host of neo-soul and hip-hop artists. The lyrics to the songs and raps were wholesome, inspiring, and fun.

It was all positive and all good!

September 2019 The Positive Community

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L–R: TPC Publisher Adrian Council Sr., and Rev. Glover

Sr. Pastor Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover

St. Paul BC Celebrates the Cultural Narrative

S

Ushers L–R: Front row – Myron Way, Ronald Morton, Joseph Smith, Matokia Moore, Minnie Parker, Bernard Hamilton, Henry Davis; Back row – Delores Montague, Wanda Soto

t. Paul Baptist Church of Montclair NJ, welcomed publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. to speak at their worship service on June 23. Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover enthusiastically endorsed the Cultural Narrative as an important learning tool. The emphasis is on the value of having one’s own narrative—a story or a song that speaks to the soul of our trials, tribulations, and triumphs—a story that speaks to our present and future hope. Having a cultural narrative matters.

Positive Music Matters!

Photos: Karen Waters

At Right: St. Paul B.C. Victory Liturgical Youth Dance Ministry: L–R: Ministry leader Shawn C. Robinson, Bryton Cook, Jesana Jules, Adeyemi Jules, Zarah Bethea, youth leader Jahaida Reyes and Roselyn (Rosie) Reyes.

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The Positive Community September 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Newark Public Library

Amazing things are happening here.

Save These Dates and Join Us!

2019 Latino Celebration Andean Culture Alive in New Jersey

Wednesday, September 18––December 31, 2019

ExhibiT | Curated by Nélida Silva (guest curator) and Yesenia López, Director, New Jersey Hispanic Research and Information Center at the Newark Public Library | Second Floor Gallery

Wednesday, September 18, 6:00 pm

OPENiNg RECEPTiON | Andean music & dance performance and food from Andean countries. Keynote speaker, Nélida Silva | Centennial Hall and Second Floor Gallery

Saturday, September 28, 2:00 pm

FiLm SCREENiNg | RETURN TO ThE ANDES Documentary filmmaker, Mitchell Teplitsky’s presents his new film–– a sequel to the 2007 documentary, Soy Andina. | Centennial Hall

Thursday, October 10, 6:00 pm

DANCiNg TO ThE ANDES | An evening of Andean music and dance performances by various Andean groups. | Centennial Hall

Saturday, October 26, 2:00 pm

A TASTE OF ThE ANDES | Nutritionist Ana María Quispe will demonstrate how we can all enjoy a healthy, affordable diet through Andean foodways. Tasting encouraged! | Centennial Hall

Saturday, November 9, 2:00 pm

ChiLDREN’S FEST | An afternoon-long family program featuring crafts and a screening of the movie, Pachamama. | Centennial Hall

Wednesday, November 20, 6:00 pm

P r i n t: K at h l e e n e . G a l l aG h e r , o n t h e B oa r d w a l K

immigRATiON iN ThE ARTS | Panel discussion on the effects of legislation on the immigrant art community in NJ. | Centennial Hall

Let’s Talk About Equality

Saturday, September 28, 2019, 1:00–3:00 pm

Author Chana Ginelle Ewing discusses how her book can be used to explain social justice concepts to children. | LGBTQ Resource Room

The Society of American graphic Artists’ 85th members Print Exhibition Saturday, October 5, 2019, 2:00 pm

OPENiNg RECEPTiON | Demonstrating a variety of traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques. | Centennial Hall

Philip Roth Lecture

monday, November 4, 2019, 6:00–8:00 pm

American historian Sean Wilentz speaks about his current work, The Triumph of American Antislavery | Centennial Hall P h oto : S a m e e r K h a n

booked for the Evening

Thursday, November 21, 2019, 6:00–8:30 pm

Nanina’s in the Park | Dinner & Awards ceremony with an After-Party from 9:00 to 11:00 pm.

Check the Library’s website for new events throughout the year.

npl.org

YOUR PARTNER IN EXPLORATION AND LEARNING 2019-2020 SCHOOL & TEACHER PROGRAMS

Program listing available at newarkmuseum.org/School-Teacher All programs are:

• Aligned with New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards, and most address goals of the National Common Core Standards initiative for language arts.

• Led by professional museum • Centered on the Museum’s art

44NMThe Positive Community September 2019 S&TProgram-PostvComnAd-7x4.75v2.indd 1

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educators, using an inquiry/ discovery approach.

newarkmuseum.org

and science collections. www.thepositivecommunity.com 9/11/19 10:29 AM

Universal values.

Personal attention.

The students at Touro NYSCAS come from all walks of life, but share the same inner drive—and we’re here to help. No matter your background or intended future, we’ll give you the support you need to turn your goals into real achievements.

Learn more at NYSCAS.Touro.edu 212.463.0400 x55500 Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, visit www.touro.edu

Our Stor y

Red Bank’s Black HistoRy From Count Basie to T. Thomas Fortune

By Fern Gillespie

T. Thomas Fortune Mansion

T

he Jersey Shore town of Red Bank, situated on the scenic Navesink River, bustles with upscale gourmet restaurants, art galleries, antique shops, expensive boutiques, and performance theaters. However, Red Bank is also a New Jersey town packed with black history and culture.

During the first half of the twentieh century, over 30 percent of Red Bank’s population was African American.

While the black population has dwindled to less than 12 percent, Red Bank’s black history reflects in institutions like the Count Basie Theatre, a concert hall named in honor of “The Kid from Red Bank.” The jazz great was born (1904) and raised in Red Bank and his legacy continues with a performance arts academy and the Count Basie Park.

In 1916, Dr. James W. Parker, Sr. became Red Bank’s first African American doctor. He was a friend and physician to Count Basie. By 1947, his son, Dr. James W.

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The Positive Community September 2019

Parker, Jr. joined the family practice and would be called “young Dr. Parker” until his death at age 85. He was renowned for opening his home office at 5:00 am. Together with his cousin, dentist Dr. James Alvin Parker, the three men provided healthcare for Red Bank people in need for more than 80 years. In 2000, at age 80, young Dr. Parker co-founded Red Bank’s Parker Family Health Center, serving people without health insurance. His leading fundraiser was local rock star and philanthropist Jon Bon Jovi. Red Bank continues to pay tribute to this medical family’s legacy with Dr. James Parker Boulevard, one of the town’s major streets.

Situated on Dr. James Parker Boulevard is a grand Victorian mansion, which in 1901 became the home of T. Thomas Fortune. He was the influential editor of The New York Age, the leading black newspaper of its time and the founder of the National Afro-American League.

Born into slavery in Florida in 1856, Fortune was an www.thepositivecommunity.com

acclaimed journalist; civil rights advocate; and close associate of Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. DuBois, Ida B. Wells, and Marcus Garvey. Fortune’s mansion became a hub of the ‘talented tenth’ on the Jersey Shore. He resided in the home for 10 years and though the house holds listings in the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, dilapidation set in and it became destined for demolition. Then in 2013, the T. Thomas Fortune Project Committee, comprised of diverse local residents, advocated for saving the landmark and restoring it as a cultural institution.

“I started reading and writing about T. Thomas Fortune in 1999 when I read newspaper clippings about his move to Red Bank, NJ, in 1901,” recalls Walter Greason, Ph.D., president of the T. Thomas Fortune Foundation and dean of the Honors School at Monmouth University.

“After completing my Ph.D., I revised my research into the book, Suburban Erasure, and Fortune’s contributions were central to understanding black civil rights organizing in a segregated northern town before the Great Migration.”

Gilda Rogers, vice president of the T. Thomas Fortune Foundation, is a historian and former Asbury Park Press reporter and Newark’s City News managing editor. “T. Thomas Fortune marched to the beat of his own drum and he spoke truth to power,” she said. “I became a journalist, because I wanted to give voice to the voiceless and in some way make a difference, by asking the right and sometimes hard to answer questions about the society we live in. Fortune was passionate about making America live up to its principles of freedom, justice, and equality for all.”

T. Thomas Fortune

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Need a caption.

By 2016, local developer Roger Mumford came forward with a plan. By May 2019, he completed the restoration of Fortune House and donated it to serve as a cultural center. The remainder of the site developed into Fortune Square, a 31-unit Victorian-style apartment complex.

“Roger Mumford is a great humanitarian,” said Rogers, who is also community affairs rep for Two River Theatre. “Although skeptical at first of his offer, it didn’t take long for me to realize he is a man of integrity and his values are aligned with those of Fortune. Those who have the means to make a difference in their communities should. They should support ideas and projects that foster societal harmony.”

T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center has hosted several community arts and history events. This fall, there’s Basie & Billie Together Again, an exhibit featuring personal artifacts from Count Basie and Billie Holiday.

Adjacent to Red Bank is Middletown, New Jersey, which also has a rich, African American history. Quinn Chapel AME Church, established in 1852, had history-making Rev. Dr. Solomon Porter Hood as a pastor in the 1930s and 1940s. Dr. Hood was the United States Minister to Liberia from 1921 to 1926 under President Calvin Coolidge and is buried in Quinn Chapel’s Crystal Stream Cemetery. The Heath Farm and Exhibits, is owned and operated by descendants of the African American family that settled in Middletown in 1885. The Heath property originally encompassed parts of Highway 35 including the Shop Rite Mall.

“Every time I see a young person learn about the distinguished traditions and legacies of the black community, I see a fire lighting in their souls,” said Dr. Greason.

“We bombard people about their worthlessness every day in innumerable ways. These stories celebrate our power and dignity.”

September 2019 The Positive Community

47

METROPOLITAN COLLEGE OF NEW YORK

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mcny.edu | 212.343.1234 MCNY is a non-profit, Purpose-Centered college committed to community and social justice.

L–R: The Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Rev. Louise Scott-Rountree

L–R: Evangelist “Lady G” Dansby, Tamika Thomas, Hon. Mildred Crump, and Dr. Mamie Bridgeforth

A Surprise Birthday Celebration

M

embers of the Newark Clergy Affairs and Inter Faith Alliance along with family, friends, and colleagues, turned out en masse for the surprise birthday celebration for director Rev. Louis Scott-Rountree on May 31, 2019 at Good Neighbor Baptist Church. Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III is pastor, Rev. Rountree is associate pastor.

Created by Mayor Ras J. Baraka as an official city department, Newark Clergy Affairs and Inter Faith Alliance’s nearly 100 clergy members, represent a range of faiths, and work in the City of Newark on a variety of programs and initiatives to improve the lives of its residents.

Friends and family celebrate Rev. Scott-Rountree’s birthday www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2019 The Positive Community

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May 29, 2019 MANDATE OF CONSENT FOR CONSECRATION OF A NEW BISHOP & ANNOUNCEMENT MANDATE OF CONSENT FOR CONSECRATION OF& ANNOUNCEMENT OF A NEW BISHOP OF 2019 May 29, 2019May May 29, 29, 2019 PROCLAMATION PROCLAMATION

MANDATEMANDATE OF CONSENT CONSECRATION OF CONSENT FOR MANDATE OF FOR CONSENT FOR CONSECRAT CONSECRAT OF A NEW BISHOP & ANNOUNCEMENT OF A NEW BISHOP & ANNOUNCEMEN We, The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, BishopOF forAthe Union of Charismatic NEW BISHOP & ANNOUNCEMEN OFoffor the Union OF havingRev. received numerous e, The Right Emilio Alvarez, Letters Bishop OF of CharThe Right Rev. Dr. Emilio Alvarez, Ph.D. Orthodox Churches, PROCLAMATION PROCLAMATION recommendation, theOrthodox Letters of Petition for Election and the ismatic Churches, having received numerous Letters PROCLAMATION Postal Address congregational and jurisdictional Mandate for Election for the of recommendation, the Letters of Petition forReverend Election and the 50 Hubbell Park Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood to be consecrated bishop in historic congregational and jurisdictional Mandatea for Election for the Reverend The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, Bishop the Union of the Charismati We, The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, Bishop Union Apostolic Succession in the One, Holy, Catholic Apostolic Church of for Dr. Johnny RayWe, Youngblood to be a bishop infor historic Apostolic Rochester, New York We, Theconsecrated Right Rev.and Emilio Alvarez, Bishop for the Union oo Orthodox Churches, having received numerous Letters of Orthodox Churches, having received numerous Letters of our Lord Jesus Christ, do Holy, herebyCatholic consentand and Apostolic approve these instruments in Jesus The Right Rev.The Dr.Right Emilio Alvarez, Ph.D. Succession in the One, Church of our Lord The Rev. Dr. Emilio Alvarez, Ph.D. 14608 The Right Right Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Emilio Emilio Alvarez, Alvarez, Ph.D. Ph.D. Orthodox Churches, having received numerous Letters of recommendation, the Letters of Petition for Election and the accordance with the historic practice of the Church from ancient times, recommendation, Letters Petition for Christ, do hereby consent and approve thesethe instruments accordance with and recommendation, the Letters of of in Petition for Election Election and the the Telephone Postal Address Postal Address having biblicalpractice and apostolic congregational and jurisdictional Mandate for Election for the Reverend congregational and jurisdictional Mandate for Election the historic of thefoundations.

Church from ancient times, having biblical and congregational and jurisdictional Mandate for Election for for tt (716) 909-614250 Hubbell Park Dr. Johnny Ray to be consecrated bishop in historic 50 Hubbell Dr. Johnny to aa bishop foundations.

50apostolic Hubbell Park Park Dr. Youngblood Johnny Ray Ray Youngblood Youngblood to be be aconsecrated consecrated bishop in in hh Email Rochester, New Therefore, all canonical steps having been satisfied and testimony given Apostolic Succession in the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church o Apostolic Succession in the One, Holy, Catholic and Aposto Therefore, all canonical steps having been satisfied and testimony given York Rochester, New York Apostolic Succession in the One, Holy, Catholic and Aposto Rochester, New York bybysaid Letters toour thethe qualification, calling and character ofand theofapprove Rev. Lord Jesus Christ, do hereby consent these instruments our Lord Jesus Christ, do hereby consent and approve these ealvarez1679@yahoo.com said Letters to qualification, calling and character the Rev. Johnny our Lord Jesus Christ, do hereby consent and approve these 14608 Johnny 14608 14608 Ray Youngblood forwith this office and role in the of Lord’s Church, I onChurch accordance the historic practice the Church ancient from times,anc Ray Youngblood for this office and role inoffrom the Lord’s accordance with the historic practice the

th Telephonethis Telephone 29 day of June in the year of our Lord 2019, do hereby declare and Telephone having biblical and apostolic foundations. having biblical and apostolic foundations.

Church, I on this 29th day of June in the year of our

having biblical and that apostolic foundations. affirm with my signature apostolic approval, an (716) 909-6142 (716) Lordand 2019, do hereby declare andofficial affirmpublic with my signa(716) 909-6142 909-6142

of Therefore, consecration for the Rev.all Johnny Ray Youngblood into Email proclamation all canonical steps having been satisfied and satisfied testimony given Email Therefore, canonical steps having been testi ture and apostolic approval, that an official public proc- and rd Emailoffice of the episcopacy Therefore, all canonical steps23having been satisfied and testi the sacred will take place on June in the year by said Letters to the qualification, calling and character of the Rev. by said Letters to the qualification, calling and character of lamation of consecration for the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngealvarez1679@yahoo.com ealvarez1679@yahoo.com by said Letters to the qualification, calling and character of ealvarez1679@yahoo.com of Our Lord 2019Johnny at The Jewel of the Brooklyn, Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church.

Ray Youngblood for this office and role in the Lord’s Church, Io Johnny Ray Youngblood for this office and role in the Lord blood into sacred office of the episcopacy will take Johnny Ray Youngblood for this office and role in the Lord

Hence, from thatthis date29forward until the time of his consecration as ado hereby declare and th

th th23rd dayon of June in the year of our Lord 2019, place June in the year of Our Lord 2019 at The th this 29 day of June in the year of our Lord 2019, do hereby this 29 day JuneJohnny in the year our Lord 2019, do hereby

bishop in historic Apostolic Succession, theofRev. Ray of Youngblood

affirmJewel with my signature and apostolic approval, thatapproval, anHence, official public of Brooklyn, Mt. Pisgah and Baptist Church. affirm with my signature apostolic that an off affirm with my signature and apostolic will be designated as the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood –Bishop-Electapproval, that an off

proclamation of consecration for the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood into from that date forward until the time of his consecra proclamation of consecration for the Rev. Johnny Ray proclamation of consecration for the Rev. Johnnyrd Ray Youn Youn tionoffice asthe a bishop in historic Apostolic Succession, the the sacred of the episcopacy will take place on June 23 in the yea sacred office of the episcopacy will take place on June 22 the sacred of the will take place on June Said consecration has been scheduled to office take place onepiscopacy January19th, 2020, Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood will beof designated as the of Our Lord 2019 at The Jewel of Brooklyn, Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. of Our Lord 2019 at The Jewel Brooklyn, Mt. Pisgah Bap of Our Lord 2019 at The Jewel chief of Brooklyn, Mt. Pisgah Bap at Mt. Pisgah at the hands of The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, Rev. Ray Youngblood –Bishop-Elect Hence, fromJohnny that forward until the timeuntil of his as a Hence, from that the time consecrator. More information is todate come.

May Godforward continue to Hence, from that date date forward until theconsecration time of of his his consecra consecra Said consecration has been scheduled to take place bishop in historic Apostolic Succession, the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngbloo bishop in historic Apostolic Succession, the Rev. Johnny strengthen the Reverend Johnny Ray in Youngblood, his family, Mt. Pisgah bishop historic Apostolic Succession, the Rev. Johnny Ra Ra on January19th, 2020, at Mt. Pisgah at the hands of will be designated as the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood –Bishop-Elect will be designated as the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood –Bi Baptist Church and its Merging Ministries. will be designated as the Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood –Bi

W

The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, chief consecrator.

MoreSaid information is to come.

May God to continue to Said consecration has been scheduled to scheduled take place ontake January19th, 2020 has place Said consecration consecration has been been scheduled to take place on on Janua Janua strengthen the Reverend Johnny Ray Youngblood, at Mt. Pisgahat at the hands of The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez, chief Mt. Pisgah at the hands of The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez Signed: at Mt. Pisgah at the hands of The Right Rev. Emilio Alvarez his More family, Mt.More Pisgah Baptist Church and its consecrator. information to come.

May continue to continu consecrator. information is come.

May consecrator.

More is information is to toGod come.

May God God continu Merging Ministries. strengthen thestrengthen Reverendthe Johnny Ray Youngblood, his family, Mt. Reverend Johnny hisPisgah famil SEALED AND APPROVED: Date: 5/29/19Ray Youngblood,

strengthen the Reverend Johnny Ray Youngblood, his famil Baptist Church and its Merging Baptist Church and its Baptist Church andMinistries. its Merging Merging Ministries.

Ministries.

Signed: Signed: Signed: ______________________________ The Right Rev. Dr. Emilio AND Alvarez, Ph.D. SEALED APPROVED: SEALED AND SEALED AND APPROVED: APPROVED: Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese of Christ the King The Union of Charismatic Orthodox Churches

Date: 5/29/19Date: Date: 5/29 5/29

______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ The Right Rev. Emilio Ph.D. The Right Rev. Dr. Alvarez, TheDr. Right Rev.Alvarez, Dr. Emilio Emilio Alvarez, Ph.D. Ph.D. Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese of Christ the of King Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese Christ Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese of Christ the the King King The Union ofThe Charismatic Orthodox Churches Union of Charismatic Orthodox Churches The Union of Charismatic Orthodox Churches

BY MICHELE GONZALEZ, MANAGER, PUBLIC AFFAIRS/OUTREACH, PSE&G

PSE&G in the Community – Providing More than Just Power

P

roviding reliable power has long been instrumental in making life better for PSE&G’s community members and customers. Today, PSEG continues to deliver on that vital public service – and more – by taking a stronger interest in the needs of our customers and communities.

Partnering with organizations and municipalities across New Jersey to strengthen our communities, PSE&G has regional public affairs teams that serve as liaisons with elected officials, businesses and community leaders within the utility’s service territory.

“Working closely with our municipal and civic leaders helps our teams identify how we can provide the most benefit to our customers and support their most crucial needs,” said Calvin Ledford, director of external affairs for PSE&G. “Two of those needs are educating our customers about payment assistant programs and ensuring PSE&G is aware of customers that require

electrically operated life-sustaining equipment, such as a respirator or dialysis machine.”

In collaboration with local nonprofit service organizations such as La Casa de Don Pedro, Newark Community Street Team, South Ward Community Center, South Ward Senior Citizens group; Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Faith Based Affairs for the City Of Newark, PSE& G organized multiple well- attended public meetings and educational forums about programs customers can use to seek assistance paying their utility bills such as Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP) and NJ Shares.

The community outreach also included valuable information about registering with PSE&G if a customer requires life-sustaining equipment. Once registered and approved by PSE&G, the customer’s account will have an indicator that life-sustaining equipment is used in the home. When the risk

of power outages is high due to severe weather, PSE&G will notify customers requiring life-sustaining equipment by telephone of the potential for outages and the need for a contingency plan since restoration times cannot be guaranteed.

PSE&G also is working closely with the leadership at Newark Beth Israel Hospital to ensure patients leaving the hospital with life-sustaining equipment have the information needed to register with PSE&G. Residents in the Newark area have a strong connection with their faith-based leadership and turn to them for support in times of need and value their guidance.

Knowing this, we created a video public service announcement featuring Pastor Bryant Ali of the New Psalmist Church. It shares the importance of registering with PSE&G regarding their lifesustaining equipment. This public service announcement has been broadcasting on the local cable access channel.

It is the customer’s responsibility to make sure that PSE&G has an appropriate telephone number and registers for the life-sustaining equipment list annually.

To download a form or learn more, visit pseg.com/life or call PSE&G at 800-436-PSEG (7734).

For payment assistance options, call PSE&G at 800-436-PSEG (7734) or visit pseg.com/help or, for Spanish, pseg.com/ayuda.

PSE&G believes in energizing the communities it serves – and that means going beyond providing electric or gas. www.thepositivecommunity.com

September 2019 The Positive Community

51

Want to streamline your cluttered inbox and regain control over your Outlook account?

TRY THESE TIPS: 1. Set up folders to arrange your emails by sender, subject, project, or date.

4. Deal with unwanted email both inside and outside of your inbox.

Creating a folder system that’s easy to maintain and relevant to your day-to-day work can transform your inbox, turning chaos into order. Outlook allows you to go even deeper with the Categories field, which allows users to assign colors, titles, and specific statuses to folders. Once your folders are in place, you can follow the “deal with it now” rule for each new email: either flag it, file it, respond to it, or delete it so it doesn’t clog up your newly organized account.

It’s best to protect your business from spam and junk email with a multitude of layers. First, there’s your own human instinct, which might spot a strange email address or clunky subject line from a mile away. Marking such emails as junk and flagging repeat spammers will help to refine the power of the anti-spam software your business hopefully has in place. Beyond that, a trusted IT provider can provide deeper network analysis and security monitoring tools that keep up with every new twist of the cybersecurity world. If you don’t have any of these tools in place, contact CMIT Solutions today—it’s not a matter of if but when in regards to email issues.

2. Use the Search tool to find what you’re looking for and organize old emails.

Once you have a basic organizational structure in place for new emails, you can devote a little time and effort to dealing with all those ones that are still important. Refine your search by contact, attachment type, subject line, or keyword to find what you need, when you need it. Once you get comfortable using Outlook’s search function, you’ll discover that it’s one component of the email application you can’t live without.

3. Now that your emails are organized, free up valuable space by archiving them.

This is another easy way to clean out your inbox.

Select specific emails, folders, or categories, then click Archive on the top navigation bar to save those messages but remove them from your inbox view. Outlooks automatically archives Deleted and Sent messages, as well, but you can streamline things further by implementing Archiving Rules (under Tools > Rules from the main menu) with strict criteria like “older than 120 days,” Important or Critical, or junk mail to be reviewed later.

5. Adjust any desktop notifications to your liking.

If a notification pops up every time a message lands in your inbox, you might get distracted from your day-today duties. Consider turning off the automatic alert for every email under Outlook > Preferences > Notifications & Sounds or the Office Reminders for every appointment and meeting on your calendar at Outlook > Turn Off Office Reminders. On the other hand, if your role requires you to be readily available and responsive, you may want to create custom notifications for important senders or subjects under the Message > Rules menu.

Bonus tip: Do a regular check-up on the synchronization between mobile email applications and your main desktop account. In today’s world, maintaining a constant connection to our email inbox is important. If you ever notice that some emails aren’t showing up on your smartphone while they do appear on a laptop or desktop, work with your IT provider to ensure that all accounts are properly synced.

Microsoft Outlook may be the most popular email program around, but it’s not always easy to use. If you need help implementing mobile solutions or maximizing your email productivity, contact CMIT Solutions today. We specialize in helping businesses save time and work smarter, not harder through the proper use of technology and IT support.

52

The Positive Community September 2019

CMIT Solutions of Northern Union 973.325.3663• 800.399.CMIT www.cmitsolutions.com/nunioncounty www.thepositivecommunity.com

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

Let’s Let’s Help Help the the Bahamians Bahamians

II

hope and suspect that most or nearly all of you who hope and suspect that most nearlyattention all of youawho are reading this column wereorpaying few are reading this column were paying attention a few weeks ago when Hurricane Dorian was moving northweeks ago Atlantic when Hurricane Dorianwas wasmuch moving northward in the Ocean. There concern ward in the Atlantic Ocean.

There was much concern the storm would impact the islands of the Caribbean the impact the but islands of the Sea. storm There would was some impact, the hit was Caribbean not nearly Sea. There was some impact, but the hit was notfeared. nearly as direct or damaging as some folks seem to have as direct or damaging as some folks seem to have feared.

Subsequently, Hurricane Dorian moved northwestSubsequently, Hurricane moved northwestward, more or less toward Dorian the island of Hispaniola, ward, more or less toward the island of Hispaniola, which contains Haiti and the Dominican Republic. which contains and the thestorm Dominican Republic.

Again, if I recall Haiti correctly, did have impact, Again, if I recall correctly, the storm did have but was not as devastating as it could have been. impact, butThe was storm not as then devastating as it toward could have been.Florida. continued southern The storm then continued toward southern The Bahamas islands, situated between southernFlorida.

Florida The Bahamas situatedwere between southern Florida and the islandislands, of Hispaniola, hit extremely hard— and the island of Hispaniola, hit extremely hard— damaging or destroying manywere homes, other buildings, damaging or destroying many homes, other buildings, automobiles, farms, and so on. There were also many automobiles, farms, and so on. for—feared There werewashed also many people missing or unaccounted out people missing or unaccounted for—feared washed out to sea. to sea.

To the relief of many Americans, the hurricane headthe reliefmostly of many Americans, the hurricane headed To northward, east of the United States. Accorded northward, mostly east of the United States.

Accordingly, Hurricane Dorian had relatively limited impact on ingly, Hurricane Dorian had relatively limited impact on Florida and the rest of the United States.

Florida and the rest of the United States.

As of mid-September, there remains concern among As offolks mid-September, thereStates remains concernwhether among caring in the United regarding caring folks in the United States regarding whether Hurricane Dorian’s impact on the Bahamas will continHurricane impact the Bahamas willRelated continue to be inDorian’s effect long afteron the storm is gone. ue to be in effect long after the storm is gone.

Related to that, I am concerned, and I assume other caring obto that, I am concerned, and I assume other caring ob-

www.thepositivecommunity.com

TPC__Sept_2019_WF_PRINTER.indd 15

servers are concerned, regarding the reported extreme servers regarding thethey reported extreme numberare of concerned, missing persons.

I hope are okay, and number of missing persons.

I hope they are okay, and have simply not returned to their damaged homes. The have simply not returned to their damaged homes.

The current Administration has refused to admit Bahamians current Administration hastemporary refused toprotected admit Bahamians as refugees or grant them status. as refugees or grant them temporary protected There is discussion within more than one status. church There is discussion more thancan onehelp church congregation regardingwithin how Christians Bacongregation regarding how Christians can help Bahamian victims. I suggest that, where helpful and praghamian victims.

I suggest that, where helpful and pragmatic, church congregations work together to help matic, church victims. congregations work together to help the hurricane One congregation may have acthe hurricane victims.

One congregation may have tive members who know where and how to acquire,acin tive who know where andwater, how toand acquire, in bulk,members nonperishable foods, juices, durable bulk, nonperishable foods, juices, water, and durable summer clothing at wholesale prices or less. Another summer clothing wholesale prices who or less. congregation mayatinclude members are Another familiar congregation may include members who are familiar with inexpensive, reliable shipping companies.

A third with inexpensive, A third congregation mayreliable includeshipping memberscompanies. who have connecCape Coastmay Castle, Ghanamembers who have conneccongregation include tions—family, or others—within Bahamian conCape Coastfriends, Castle, Ghana tions—family, others—within congregations thatfriends, can beortrusted to deliverBahamian the goods to gregations that can be trusted to deliver the goods to persons and families who are truly in need. persons and families who are truly in need.

Let’s all stay in prayer regarding this. And if we have all stay intoprayer And we have theLet’s opportunity help, regarding let’s do so.this.

Also, to if maximize the opportunity to help, let’s do so.

Also, to maximize effectiveness, let’s work together: individual Christians effectiveness, let’sChristians, work together: individual Christians with individual Christian ministries with with individual Christians, Christian ministries with Christian ministries, congregations with congregations, Christian ministries, congregations with congregations, and denominations with denominations. and“Idenominations with denominations. tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of “I tell you the truth, whatever youyou diddid forfor oneme” of the least of these brothers of mine the least of these brothers of mine you did for me” —Matthew 25:40.

—Matthew 25:40.

September 2019 The Positive Community

53 9/25/19 7:32 PM

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com

September 2019

Vol. 20 No. 7

Publisher

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief

The The Last Last Word Word BY BYR.L. R.L.WITTER WITTER

THE THELAST LASTDAYS DAYSAND ANDSOCIAL SOCIALMEDIA MEDIA

Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales

Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. Marc Williams Burton Waddy NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR

Contributing Writers Patricia Baldwin Glenda Cadogan Fern Gillespie Derrel Jazz Johnson g.r. mattox Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi Rev. Theresa Nance

Photographers

Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Regina Flemming Bob Gore Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Seitu Oronde Karen Waters Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr.

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC

Production Assistant April Davis

The Positive Community Corp.

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

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

54

W W

hen hen I I was was aa child child my my Gram Gram would would often often say, say, “We’re “We’re living living inin the the last last days!” days!”I’d I’doften oftenchalk chalkGram’s Gram’swords words up uptotothe thegenerational generationaldivide divideand and her herbeing beingold-fashioned old-fashionedor orout outofof touch touchwith withcurrent currentsocietal societalnorms. norms.

Fast Fastforward forwardaafew fewdecades decadesand andwith with age agehas hascome comewisdom wisdomand andasasusual, usual, Gram Gramwas wasright. right.I Iwas wasreading readingmy my bible biblethe theother otherday dayand and22Timothy Timothy 3:1-5 3:1-5hit hitme melike likeaabolt boltofoflightning: lightning: “But “Butunderstand understandthis, this,that thatininthe the last lastdays daysthere therewill willcome cometimes timesofof difficulty. difficulty.22For Forpeople peoplewill willbe belovlovers ersofofself, self,lovers loversofofmoney, money,proud, proud, arrogant, arrogant, abusive, abusive, disobedient disobedient toto their their parents, parents, ungrateful, ungrateful, unholy, unholy, 33heartless, heartless,unappeasable, unappeasable,slanderslanderous, ous, without without self-control, self-control, brutal, brutal, not not loving loving good, good, 44 treacherous, treacherous, reckless, reckless,swollen swollenwith withconceit, conceit,lovlovers ersofofpleasure pleasurerather ratherthan thanlovers lovers ofofGod, God,55having havingthe theappearance appearance ofofgodliness, godliness,but butdenying denyingits itspower. power.

Avoid Avoidsuch suchpeople.” people.”

My Mymother, mother,Miss MissAmerica, America,often often told toldus, us,“There’s “There’snothing nothingnew newununder derthe thesun. sun.Only Onlythe theway waythings things are aredone donehas haschanged.” changed.”She Shewasn’t wasn’t wrong; wrong;and andthat thatbible bibleverse verseshowed showed ititperfectly. perfectly.Social Socialmedia mediaand andthe the way waymost mostpeople peopleuse useititimmediately immediately

The Positive Community September 2019

came cametotomind. mind.So Somany manypeople peoplepost post “selfies” “selfies”constantly, constantly,sporting sportingaafanfancycycar caror orexpensive expensiveclothes, clothes,views views from fromaatrip tripmeant meanttotospark sparkenvy envyor or jealousy, jealousy,captions captionstouting toutingtheir theirown own beauty beautyor orsuccess, success,an aninsult insultor ordig dig atatsomeone someoneelse, else,profane profaneor orhostile hostile language, language,etc. etc.

Often Often social social media media accounts accounts are arecurated curatedwith withfiltered filteredand andeditedited edphotos photosstaged stagedtotothe thehilt, hilt,video video clips clipsofofdangerous dangerousor orirresponsible irresponsible behavior, behavior, and and posts posts timed timed toto the the minute minutetotoproduce producethe themaximum maximum amount amountofof“likes.” “likes.” Some Somego gososofar far asastotorent rentcars carsand andhomes homestotostage stage photo photoshoots shootsfor fortheir theirsocial socialmedia. media.

But But my my Father’s Father’s house house has has many many rooms, rooms,so… so…

Studies Studiesshow showpeople peoplewho whodon’t don’t use usesocial socialmedia mediatend tendtotobe behappihappiererwith withtheir theirlives livesbecause becausethey’re they’re not notfeeling feelingaaconstant constantcomparison comparison toto others. others. That’s That’s something something else else Miss MissAmerica Americaalways alwayssaid: said:“measure “measure yourself yourselfby byyour yourown ownyardstick.” yardstick.”

While WhileI Ido dohave haveaacouple coupleofofsosocial cialmedia mediaaccounts accountsand andenjoy enjoysharsharing ingsnippets snippetsofofmy mylife lifewith withfriends friends and andloved lovedones, ones,the thewords wordsofofboth both my my mother mother and and grandmother, grandmother, asas well wellasasthat thatscripture, scripture,have haveme mererethinking thinkingwhat whatand andwhy whyI Ishare. share.IfIf these theseare arethe thelast lastdays, days,I Iwant wanttotobe be mindful mindfulofofhow howI’m I’mliving livingand andhow how I Irepresent representmyself myselfand andmy myvalues valuestoto the therest restofofthe theworld. world.I Idon’t don’tneed need totobrag bragor orboast, boast,or orgo gointo intodebt debtinin an an effort effort toto impress impress others. others. MatMatthew thew6:20-21 6:20-21reminds remindsus, us,“But “Butlay lay up upfor foryourselves yourselvestreasures treasuresininheavheaven, en,where whereneither neithermoth mothnor norrust rust doth dothconsume, consume,and andwhere wherethieves thieves do donot notbreak breakthrough throughnor norsteal: steal:for for where wherethy thytreasure treasureis,is,there therewill willthy thy heart heartbe bealso.” also.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

COMMUNITY DAY THE WELLNESS CENTER BODIES OF WATER

Small Square, outside the Lenfest Center for the Arts 1 to 4pm

An interactive program for families and community members to learn about the impact water has on their communities and overall well-being. The event will include a handson activity for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Informative material from cited scientific resources will be distributed. Two ‘bodies of water’ cardboard cutouts will be placed throughout the Manhattanville campus for photo ops. Registration recommended. http://bit.ly/wellbodwater

WALLACH ART GALLERY

Lenfest Center for the Arts Lantern, 8th Floor of Lenfest Center for the Arts 1 to 3pm Visitors of all ages are welcome to have an interactive experience with artmaking, storytelling, and in-gallery conversations with Wallach educators. The gallery is open to all.

LENFEST CENTER FOR THE ARTS FREE SCREENINGS OF INSIDE OUT Lenfest Center for the Arts 615 W. 129th Street 11am & 3pm

The School of the Arts presents a free screening of Inside Out, a film set in the mind of a young girl named Riley. This Oscarwinning animated film follows five personified emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust – as they help Riley adjust to her changing life. Recommended for ages 7+.

Registration is recommended: 11:00AM: http://bit.ly/insideout11 3:00PM: http://bit.ly/insideout3

THE FORUM

601 West 125th Street Noon to 4:30 p.m.

The Harlem Chamber Players string quartet celebrating AfricanAmerican and women composers.

Saturday, September 28

Free and open to the public COLUMBIA ZUCKERMAN INSTITUTE SATURDAY SCIENCE: YOUR AMAZING BRAIN

Education Laboratory, Zuckerman Institute, 1st Floor of Jerome L.Greene Science Center (3227 Broadway) 1 to 4pm Explore the workings of the brain through hands-on activities and unique scientific resources. Learners of all ages welcome! Advance registration recommended. http://bit.ly/zkmanbrain

BIOBUS

BioBus will be parked outside the Jerome L.Greene Science Center (3227 Broadway) 1 to 4 pm Come meet the brain onboard a BioBus Mobile Science Lab! Students of all ages can make their own discoveries using our research-grade microscopes. Join our scientists, as BioBus gets ready to launch another exciting year of science exploration at schools across Harlem.

Hip-Hop Stroke, an interactive health education program, using hip hop music and animated cartoons to educate children about the signs of stroke.

Manhattanville: A New York Nexus. A 15-minute video on the history of the neighborhood.

NYC Water Facts: Learn facts about NYC water.

Women in Technology, introducing technology and coding to children.

The Café at The Forum, featuring products

by Harlem vendors.

For more info and to register, visit https://gca.columbia.edu/Manhattanville928

Save the Date!

THE GREAT AMERICAN EMANCIPATION DAY AWARDS BANQUET CELEBRATING THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY’S TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY New Year’s Day | January 1st 2020 | 2pm–6pm Robert Treat Hotel, Newark, NJ