May 2016 Issue NJ by The Positive Community

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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ May 2016

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FOCUS ON

HEALTH

Meet Eboné Carrington

Jazz4PCA Fighting Prostate Cancer

SPECIAL SECTION

TPC Gala Wrap-up

Darrell Terry, Sr. At the Helm at Newark Beth

Let’s be healthy together. With 32,000 medical professionals, 11 acute care hospitals, 4 children’s hospitals, 5 fitness and wellness centers, numerous community gardens, a multitude of dedicated researchers, and partnerships with medical schools all focused on the communities we serve, RWJBarnabas Health is transforming health care for the millions of people we serve throughout New Jersey.

Let’s be healthy together.

RWJBHinfo.org

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL THE PRINCIPAL TEACHING HOSPITAL FOR RUTGERS NEW JERSEY MEDICAL SCHOOL EXCELLENT MEDICINE. EXCELLENT CARE. UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL IS PROUD TO BE RANKED A TOP HOSPITAL IN NEW JERSEY AND TO RECEIVE SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR THE TREATMENT OF n

Breast Cancer

n Congestive Heart Failure

n High Risk Pregnancy & Birth

n Pediatric Cancers

n Neurological Disorders

n Stroke

n Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery

n Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

n Prostate Cancer

IN ADDITION, WE HAVE BEEN INDEPENDENTLY RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE By the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association for Performance Achievement for the treatment of Stroke and Heart Failure n By HealthGrades® with a 5-Star rating and its Neurosurgery Excellence Award n

In Trauma Care as northern New Jersey’s Level 1 Trauma Center

n As one of only two sites in the State for Liver Transplantation n For treatment of the deadliest form of Heart Attack by our

EMS, the only such recognition in the State

We’re very proud of this recognition and what it means for the care of our patients. It also means an exceptional opportunity for the education of the next generation of physicians in our role as the flagship teaching hospital for Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and the other schools of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences. This partnership ensures highly trained professionals to meet the healthcare needs of New Jersey and beyond. For more information about University Hospital, please call us at 973-972-4300 or go to our website at: www.uhnj.org 1

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www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

UNITED FEDERATION

TEACHERS

Celebrating the Passion & Promise in our Public Schools United Federation of Teachers • A Union of Professionals 52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org Officers: Michael Mulgrew President • Emil Pietromonaco Secretary • Mel Aarnson Treasurer • Leroy Barr Assistant Secretary • Tom Brown Asssist Treasurer

Vice Presidents: Karen Alford • Carmen Alvarez • Janella Hinds • Richard Mantel • Evelyn DeJesus • Sterling Roberson The Positive Community May 2016

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R C

GREAT

OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!

ALL

TO PROGRESS

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

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

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

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

St. Paul Baptist, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor

Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, Pastor

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

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

St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Lanel D. Guyton, Pastor

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

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

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

St. Paul's B.C., Montclair, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover

Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr Pastor Agape Christian Ministries Worship Ctr. Rev. Craig R. Jackson. Pastor Antioch Baptist Church., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Pastor Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor

Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist B.C. of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr. Senior Pastor First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, President Good Neighbor Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Allen Potts, Senior Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor

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

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

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

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

Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn, NY Rev. A.R. Barnard, Pastor

It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor Lagree Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Wayland Williams, Jr., Pastor

Mount Zion Baptist Church, Westwood, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Frances Mannin-Fontaine, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Zion B.C., Elizabeth, NJ Rev. Kevin James White, Pastor Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, E. Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor

St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder

Businesses & Organizations 125th St. BID African American Heritage Parade American Diabetes Association American Heart Association, Northern, NJ Brown Executive Realty LLC,

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

Morristown, NJ

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

Essex County College, NJ

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

Marion P. Thomas Charter School

City National Bank Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce

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

Medgar Evers College

St. Albans, NY COGIC Rev. Dr. Ben Monroe

Muslim American Chamber of Commerce

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

NAACP, NY State Conference*

Mildred Crump, Newark City Council

Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald Christian, Pastor

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

Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Eric M. Beckham, M.Div., MFT

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

Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor

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

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

Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Dr. Shirley B. Cathie., Pastor Emeritus

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

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

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

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

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

Newark School of Theology

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

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

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

Razac Products Co., Newark, NJ

NAACP New Jersey* New Brunswick Theological Seminary New Jersey Performing Arts Center New York Theological Seminary New York Urban League Nubian Conservatory of Music Schomburg Center

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

www.thepositivecommunity.com May support 2016 The Positive Community 7 this magazine, the only one and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please

that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010

SHEILA THORNE GUEST EDITORIAL

Sheila Thorne isPresident/CEO of Multicultural Healthcare Marketing Group, LLC

Increasing Racial and Ethnic Diversity in Clinical Trials A Medical Research Imperative to Eliminate Health Disparities

n 1960, America was 85% White. Census 2010 was a wake-up call about the nation’s racial make-up where blacks, Latinos, and Asians accounted for 92 percent of U.S. population growth during the past decade. By 2060, census experts predict that America will be 43% White. For the first time in the nation’s history, the majority of people living in the United States will be people of color. While most Americans are living longer, healthier lives, blacks do not enjoy the full benefits of biomedical research and suffer more from chronic disease and premature death, even among the middle class and insured. One significant contributor to health disparities is the absence of research to identify the sources of differences in diseases and health outcomes among black people.

Importance of Clinical Trials Clinical research, the foundation for the practice of evidence-based medicine, is used to determine whether new drugs are safe and effective. It stands to reason the more blacks in clinical trials, the more confidence physicians will have in research results and the benefits of the medicine in African Americans. Extrapolating data from white clinical trial participants could be dangerous now that scientific evidence indicates that certain drugs differently affect various ethnic groups. Compared to whites, African Americans are twice as likely to develop type II diabetes. Yet, blacks are underrepresented in studies of promising new treatments. African American men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as their white counterparts, but represent only 4 percent of prostate cancer clinical trial participants. The small numbers of blacks in clinical trials are even worse when you look at clinical trials aimed at heart disease, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and asthma.

Mental Health There is a particular urgency for clinical research in the area of mental health and African Americans. Adult blacks are 20 percent more likely to report serious psychological distress than adult whites. Alzheimer’s disease is more prevalent among African Americans than among whites with estimates ranging from 14% to almost 100% higher. There is a greater familial risk of Alzheimer’s in African Americans. A new gene mutation has been identified that nearly doubles African Americans’ risk for getting Alzheimer's disease, according to a large, government-funded report. America’s pharmaceutical research companies are developing 187 medicines to help the nearly 60 million American adults now suffering from some form of mental illness—from anxiety to depression and from schizophrenia to addictive disorders, such as dependence on alcohol or drugs. Little is known about how brain disorders evolve in different racial and ethnic groups because there are very few studies involving them. The epidemic of Alzheimer’s will continue to spread over the next 30 years, as the number of AfricanAmericans entering the age of risk more than doubles to 6.9 million. NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 requires that federally funded trials include diverse populations in numbers adequate for valid sub-group analyses. Despite this legislation and the release of the FDA Action Plan to enhance the collection of demographic data released in August 2014, the lack of blacks in clinical research is disturbing and persistent. There are historical barriers to blacks volunteering for clinical research. Black men with syphilis were deliberately left untreated for 40 years in the infamous Tuskegee Experiment. From 1932 to 1972, the U.S. Public Health Service allowed 399 black men with syphilis to go without penicillin therapy. By the end of Continued on next page

8 The 2016 8 The Positive PositiveCommunity CommunityMay May 2016

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GUEST EDITORIAL continued from previous page

the study, 128 men died, 40 of their wives were infected and 19 of their children were born with syphilis. Although it has been 83 years since the Tuskegee Study and 40 years since it was halted, it has become America's metaphor for misconduct in clinical research. It explains, only in part, why many blacks are reluctant to volunteer for clinical research studies. The major reasons for underrepresentation of blacks in clinical trials include “mistrust” of researchers, fear of being used as guinea pigs, lack of awareness of clinical trials, culturally deficient recruitment plans and strategies, and inadequate involvement of black physicians as principal investigators. Building Bridges Pharmaceutical company sponsors must build bridges with black medical teaching institutions—Howard University, Morehouse School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and Charles Drew University of Medicine—and develop collaborative partnerships with black medical associations to select sites in black communities that are accessible to blacks—National Medical Association, Association of Black Cardiologists, and National Black Nurses Association. Reaching the African American community requires more than putting black faces on printed materials. Pharmaceutical sponsors must design culturally tailored, high touch campaigns on the ground in target black communities, collaborate with black faith and community based organizations, disseminate information in black newspapers and magazines, black websites, and urban radio outlets. Cultural competency training of clinical site teams will ensure a culturally sensitive clinical trial experience and enhance retention. The FDA Commissioner has declared 2016 the Year of Diversity in Clinical Trials. The pressure from the NIH and the FDA on the pharmaceutical industry to increase diversity in clinical research will only continue, especially in light of the growing diverse populations in the U.S. Increasing the number Blacks in clinical research is just good science to ensure the delivery of quality, safe, effective, personalized, patient-centered care in an increasingly multicultural society.

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Pharmaceutical company sponsors must build bridges with black medical teaching institutions—Howard University, Morehouse School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and Charles Drew University of Medicine—and develop collaborative partnerships with black medical associations to select sites in black communities that are accessible to blacks—National Medical Association, Association of Black Cardiologists, and National Black Nurses Association. Reaching the African American community requires more than putting black faces on printed materials. Pharmaceutical sponsors must design culturally tailored, high touch campaigns on the ground in target black communities, collaborate with black faith and community based organizations, disseminate information in black newspapers and magazines, black websites, and urban radio outlets. Cultural competency training of clinical site teams will ensure a culturally sensitive clinical trial experience and enhance retention. The FDA Commissioner has declared 2016 the Year of Diversity in Clinical Trials. The pressure from the NIH and the FDA on the pharmaceutical industry to increase diversity in clinical research will only continue, especially in light of the growing diverse populations in the U.S. Increasing the number Blacks in clinical research is just good science to ensure the delivery of quality, safe, effective, personalized, patient-centered care in an increasingly multicultural society.

thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community May 2016 The Positive Community

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REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

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

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

Mrs. Marie Lewis: My Mama

here isn't a week that goes by that I don't think about my mother. Her name was Marie Lewis and her skills for getting through the day-to-day minefields of life were admirable. I have written about my mother in this column for many years for Mother’s Day and there is still more to write. May is the month when we celebrate Mother's Day. There are women who have babies and then there are mothers. Mine, thank God, was the latter. Perfect, she wasn't. Committed she was. She would say repeatedly, “I don't care what you think you look like, you’re either going to school or you're going to work.” End of story. I was a pretty cute kid, but mother understood that the outward appearance fades and you must be able to get through life using your brain, not just your pancake makeup. Shout out to a wise mom! Her mantra for a racist world was this, “You might have to give 90%. The other guy/gal might have to give 50%. If that's how the odds are stacked against you . . . so what!” During the last four or five years of her life, she was plagued with dementia, a most insidious disease. So, the woman I had known to be a fabulous dresser (size 12 to the very end) had to be treated like a child to prevent her from putting on a wool dress in the heat of summer. I bathed her, rubbed her feet with baby oil before she went to bed, and grabbed her hand when we crossed the street because the roles had reversed and I became Mama. As painful as it was to watch her grapple with her memory loss, we probably became closer during that period of her life than at any other time. You see, she was so gosh-darn independent and so was I. We both led our lives not necessarily separately but not always together either. It was now I who bought her a Dairy Queen ice cream cone after an afternoon ride and

made sure she had on the proper undergarments when incontinence engulfed her body. It was my reasonable service. I gladly did this for a woman who stood on her feet six days a week in a factory to help my father buy a home that gave me my own bedroom. This was the woman who allowed me to get behind the wheel of her car when I was a teenager and coming out the driveway, I hit a parked car. She said, “Move over.” And, when the police came she told them she was behind the wheel. She had impeccable taste, immeasurable courage, and an immaculate home. My mother, Mrs. Marie Lewis. Birthplace: Saluda, South Carolina. Spiritual background: Christian. Name most often called: Mama.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Social Security Maximization Workshop Congress is making changes to Social Security Do you know how this will affect Your Retirement...You should!

Essex County College, West Essex Campus 730 Bloomfield Ave, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 Tuesday, May 17th | 6:30 – 8:30 PM Tuition is $26 (plus $5 registration fee) To enroll: call (973) 877-3175

Financial Survival for Retirement ● 2-Part Series Essex County College, Main Campus 303 University Ave, Newark NJ 07102 Thursday, May 19th & 26th | 6:30 – 8:30 PM Tuition is $52 (plus $5 registration fee) To enroll: call (973) 877-3395 at Wise Women’s Center Instructor: Ivor Alleyne of Intrinsic Wealth Strategies, Inc.

10 2016 10 The The Positive PositiveCommunity CommunityMay May 2016

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Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell

host of family, congregation members, clergy, and community leaders gathered at Merion Caterers, in Cinnaminson, New Jersey to honor Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr. and First Lady Deaconess Dorothy Campbell of Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ on their 47th pastoral anniversary. In addition to pastoral duties, Dr.

Campbell, a past president of Baptist Ministersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity, currently serves as president of the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey. Rev. Dr. Deforest B. Soaries, Jr. of First Baptist of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset, NJ was the keynote speaker.---AAC Photos: Karen Waters

L-R: Pastor and Mrs. Leo Graham, Tabernacle B.C., New Brunswick, NJ; Dr. Joseph Woods, pastor, St. Phillips B.C., Trenton, NJ; and Minister Brandon Woods

The Campbell family

L-R: Adrian Council; Anniversary Worship Leader Pastor Albert Morgan of Union Temple B.C., Bridgeton, NJ; and Rev. Clarence Moore

L-R: Pastor and Moderator Aaron C. Lee, Sr. and First Lady Randy I. Lee, New Philippian Baptist Church, Glassboro, NJ; Rev. Dr. Campbell; First Lady Dorothy Campbell; First Lady Helena Blackwell and Rev. Dr. George Blackwell, Jr. III, second VP GBC and pastor Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ; and Rev. Darrell Armstrong, pastor, Shiloh B.C., Trenton www.thepositivecommunity.com

Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr.; Hon. Michelle Arnold, mayor Borough of Palmyra; and Rev. Dr. Deforest B. Soaries, Jr., keynote speaker

May 2016 The Positive Community

Health P R E V E N T I O N , T R E AT M E N T & C U R E

Ralph Stowe

Jazz4PCA: Time For Screening B Y PA U L M E S S E R

To raise awareness regarding the prevention, detection and treatment of prostate cancer and to provide funding for free prostate cancer screening utilizing the excitement and appeal of live jazz music.

ime… we save it, spend it and often waste or simply lose it. During our lifetime we all have handled our precious gift of time in these ways and more. For a professional musician, to keep time means to stay with the beat of the music. For Ralph Stowe, a composer, arranger, and producer, investing time taking care of his health was the most important thing he ever did. Stowe is a prostate cancer survivor who was tested after his brother, famed Jazz trombonist James ”Jimmy” Stowe was diagnosed with level four prostate cancer and eventually succumbed to the disease at the age of 61. During the homegoing service for his brother, a number of jazz musicians who respected and had played with Jimmy in the past, approached Ralph. They suggested that he do something to celebrate and honor the memory of his brother. The seeds they sowed that day eventually brought forth the nonprofit organization Jazz for Prostate

The Positive Community May 2016

Cancer Awareness. The mission of Jazz for Prostate Cancer Awareness (Jazz4PCA.org) is to raise awareness regarding the prevention, detection, and treatment of prostate cancer and to provide funding for free prostate cancer screening utilizing the excitement and appeal of live jazz music. To raise funds to provide free prostate screenings, JAZZ4PCA enlisted the assistance of the very musicians who had known and respected Jimmy throughout his musical career. Ralph had followed in his big brother’s footsteps by becoming a jazz musician and decided to learn to play the piano instead of the trombone. “I called his friends as well as my friends in the business, who wanted to help the cause,” he said. JAZZ4PCA has successfully hosted fundraising events on Father’s Day as well as a Holiday Gala in December. They have performed at health fairs and Masonic Temples, to raise money and awareness. Stowe explained, “We provide a great jazz experience and then pause for a few moments to provide much needed information to the men in the audience and the women who love them.” The organization seeks to make it clear that getting tested is so easy, that there really is no reason not to do it. Screening for Prostate cancer can be as simple as a blood test. That can buy time for an effective therapy plan and ultimately, may result in a longer life. Early diagnosis and treatment of this disease has an over 90 percent success rate. Unfortunately, because there are almost no symptoms early on, the disease can progress for years, insidiously causing severe damage throughout the body. An individual experiencing symptoms such problems urinating, erectile dysfunction or even loss of bladwww.thepositivecommunity.com

der or bowel control should see a medical professional to be screened. “When my brother was diagnosed, it was almost unreal,” explained Stowe, remembering this difficult period. “We did not know what to do. It was at that time, that James insisted that I and my brothers Phillip and Wendell get tested immediately.” He made them each promise they would. That solemn promise saved the lives of the remaining three Stowe brothers, since they soon discovered that they each had early stage prostate cancer. Thankfully, due to each brother’s individual health coverage, the screening and subsequent surgical procedures or prostatectomies, were fully covered. for television those with inadequate or Inaugural interview at theHowever, state-of-the-art production CommunityatTelevision), Lyndhurst, NJprostate studios of TPC-TV (The Positive no medical coverage all, screening for L–R Obie McKenzie, Adrian andexpensive Jean Nash Wells. cancer canCouncil be too or not even suggested. Under guidelines by the Affordwe will rediscover forthe ourselves the followed community-building able Care Act, also called Obamacare, screening is deals of self-acceptance, self-reliance and self-respect. not recommended due to concerns of unnecessary And finally, The Positive Community pays a special tribtreatments. Surprisingly, even private insurance ute to ouris friend Rev. Dr.to M. William “Bill”Stowe Howard, not mandated cover screening. firmPastor Emeritus of the Bethany ly believes thatmighty JAZZ4PCA is forBaptist all menChurch with or without insurance, simply want spendDr. more congregation of Newark, NJwho (page 31). In to2011, time taking care of their health in general. “More Howard leveraged his cultural capital, social capital and importantly,” he joined said. “Aswith menAlthey must become nstitutional capital as he Koeppe, then aware of new health strategies that will allow them to president of the Newark Alliance of local corporations remain healthy and live long, productive lives.”

and private and public institutions, and the late Professor Paul Clement A. Price of Rutgers UniversityMesser is a freelance writer and music lover as well as a budding Newark toJazzestablish Positive Community’s Newark aficionado. AThe member of Community Baptist Church of Englewood Leadership Roundtable Series (NLRS): Thoughtful, olution seeking conversations—education, health and business—from a glass half-full perspective. Now in its ifth year, NLRS shines on as a beacon of hope and opportunity; possibility and potential. It remains our most popular community outreach brand. We are grateful for Bill Howard’s years of service to our community as the former president of New York Theological Seminary in Harlem, and as a beloved pasor, effective and wise leader and teacher!

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Exclusive! First Lady of NYC Chirlane McCray Launches Groundbreaking Mental Health Initiative: ThriveNYC At Gracie Mansion’s Clergy Breakfast Workshop See the Video Learn the Facts Get Involved Only Online at thepositivecommunity.com

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May 2016 The Positive Community

Shernett Griffiths, Griffiths, MD MD Shernett

Investigate pain like a detective As spring awakens, outdoor activities like gardening often take center stage, ushering in long hours working in the backyard. It’s common for your hands and fingers to get sore and sometimes even swell. But when pain and stiffness makes it impossible to continue, it may be a sign of arthritis or other type of swelling condition that can develop as a result of age, family history, and lifestyle. But pain doesn’t have to take over your life. Dr. Shernett Griffiths, a rheumatologist with Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, identifies the cause of stiffness, swelling, and pain to joints, muscles, bones, and ligaments. As an “inflammation detective,” she understands firsthand how difficult it can be for people to not understand the cause of their discomfort. She shares her insights on some of the major factors

that contribute contribute to to this this type type of of pain pain and and how how with with that the help help of of aa rheumatologist, rheumatologist, people people can can return return the to living living life life with with less less pain. pain. to

Q: What is arthritis and what should it? people know about it? Dr. Griffiths: Griffiths: Arthritis Arthritis is is inflammation inflammation to to joints joints Dr. that causes causes stiffness stiffness and and pain. pain. In In general, general, there there that are three three categories categories of of arthritis: arthritis: osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis, are inflammatory arthritis, arthritis, and and autoimmune-related autoimmune-related inflammatory arthritis, such such as as rheumatoid rheumatoid arthritis. arthritis. Knowing Knowing arthritis, the type type that that affects affects you you will will not not only only impact impact the your health health and and treatment, treatment, but but also also your your family. family. your Since arthritis arthritis can can run run in in families, families, learning learning ifif Since there is is aa genetic genetic link link may may also also help help other other family family there members determine determine the the cause cause of of joint joint pain pain members much sooner. sooner. Evaluation Evaluation by by aa rheumatologist rheumatologist much can help help determine determine the the proper proper diagnosis diagnosis and and can

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tailor aa treatment treatment plan plan to to your your needs needs so so you you can can tailor achieve the the best best possible possible results. results. The The earlier earlier the the achieve better when when itit comes comes to to intervention. intervention. better

to reduce pain, starting May 10. For more information, contact the Graf Center for Integrative Medicine at grafcenter@ehmchealth.org.

Q: Back pain is a common complaint. What do people not know about this type of pain?

Q: We often hear that inflammation can be triggered by certain exposures. What is one trigger people should know more about?

Dr. Griffiths: Griffiths: Back Back pain pain is is aa major major reason reason people people Dr. visit aa doctor. doctor. The The pain pain you you may may be be experiencing experiencing visit may not not be be due due to to degeneration degeneration in in your your spine, spine, may but can can often often be be attributed attributed to to the the muscles muscles that that but surround your your spine. spine. A A rheumatologist rheumatologist can can help help surround determine treatment treatment options options to to relieve relieve your your determine back pain pain by by looking looking at at spine spine and/or and/or muscle muscle back involvement. Treatments Treatments can can include include topical topical involvement. or oral oral medications, medications, but but may may also also include include or intramuscular injections injections or or back-strengthening back-strengthening intramuscular exercises. No No matter matter what what type type of of treatment treatment exercises. you may may need, need, aa rheumatologist rheumatologist may may be be able able to to you identify the the cause cause and and treat treat you you with with the the most most identify appropriate intervention. intervention. appropriate

Dr. Griffiths: Sunlight. The summer brings lots of sunshine, helping our bodies convert vitamin D to its active form, which we need to maintain strong and healthy bones. Though we typically want people to go outside and get those vitamin D levels up, certain autoimmune diseases are flared by the summer rays. A rheumatologist can determine if the sun is the right source of your vitamin D activity or if another source may be right for you. Also, remember to always wear sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UV rays—your vitamin D will still be able to respond to the good rays!

Q: Can a person’s diet affect inflammation?

Q: When is fatigue a sign of something more serious?

Dr. Griffiths: Griffiths: Certain Certain foods foods can can definitely definitely affect affect Dr. the inflammation inflammation in in your your body. body. A A worsening worsening the of your your symptoms symptoms can can be be influenced influenced by by what what of you eat. eat. A A rheumatologist rheumatologist can can determine determine ifif you your current current diet diet is is the the right right one one for for you, you, help help your evaluate which which foods foods are are causing causing pain, pain, and and evaluate recommend aa diet diet focused focused on on decreasing decreasing recommend inflammation. Englewood Englewood Hospital Hospital and and Medical Medical inflammation. Center offers offers nutritional nutritional counseling counseling services, services, Center including aa 4-week 4-week course course on on using using food food including

Dr. Griffiths: If you are feeling tired and can’t seem to shake that feeling no matter how long you sleep, there may be something else causing your fatigue. Fatigue is one of the most common complaints associated with autoimmune disease. A rheumatologist can determine if your fatigue is the onset of something more. Early evaluation of fatigue is essential to determining the proper intervention and ultimately improving your quality of life.

Your hospital for life. 866-980-EHMC englewoodhealth.org

KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR Kahlil Carmichael is the spiritual director and founder of It Is Well Wellness and Worship Center in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a spiritual leader and the owner of The Fitness Doctor; a fitness and wellness consulting company. He writes a monthly column for The Positive Community Magazine and is the author of 50 Tips for a Better You! To grow spiritually and improve physically, or have Pastor Carmichael present his wellness seminar to your church or group you can email Kahlil at Pastor@itiswellchurch.com or call 732-921-3746.

The Strength to Ask

his year my mother celebrated her 66th birthday. I am amazed by my parents’ ability to raise children in Newark, New Jersey, keeping us focused, while helping us understand the importance of our heritage and education. It wasn’t easy for Mom, a young woman from North Carolina who migrated to Brooklyn and then Newark. How did she do it without a role model or mentor? How did my mom bring us this far without the proper information? When I ask her, she simply says, “by the grace of God!” That’s true, God’s grace is sufficient. But I often wonder what heights my mom could have reached had she not had to figure the basic principles of life out as she went along? How much more could she have accomplished if there had been a mentor, coach, pastor, etc.to guide her. This got me thinking. I wondered if my mom (and other power moms), might be trying to figure out the weight loss, healthy living, and exercise thing? Are our precious moms and mother figures trying to figure out how to improve their health without someone who can supply them with the proper techniques and information? I must admit, I’m noticing more moms of all ages (especially African-American moms over 50), exercising and becoming more health conscious. But unfortunately, many are trying to figure it out as they go. Take weight training for instance. In a survey about systemization, (the fear and apprehension most women share about working out in a gym), over 55% of women stated that they did not have a clue about strength training or lifting weights. And the ones who actually do lift weights are more than likely working well below their capacity. Here is the truth (and information) about weight or strength training for women: 1. Strength training can help you lose body fat and is likely a quicker ticket to better fitness than just plain cardio exercises. Moms, you can derive tremendous benefit from resistance training and you will not get bulky. 2. “Strength training is a critical component of any program that emphasizes long-term fat loss,” said Alwyn Cosgrove, co-author of the book The New Rules of Lifting. Think of it like this: Muscles are “thirsty” from a metabolic perspective. The more muscle you have; the more fuel you are constantly burning. This is the advantage strength train-

16 Positive Community CommunityMay May 2016 16 The The Positive 2016

ing offers if your goal is to lean out. A treadmill or elliptical trainer is often seen as the quick fix to shed body fat, and they are certainly useful if your goal is to improve cardiovascular health, endurance or simply to burn some extra calories, but strength training is the path. 3. Lifting free weights mimics natural movement and creates greater muscle activity than machines. 4. There has always been debate concerning which is better, free weights or machines. Hands down, free weights are the best. Miranda Esmond-White writes in her book, Aging Backwards, “Regular weight-bearing exercises and a diet rich in calcium are necessary to keep the bones healthy and strong.” Weight-bearing exercise simply means that you put sufficient stress on the full skeleton to gently stress the bones on a daily basis. Of course I recommend incorporating weight training into your life. But if you are going to do this you will need professional guidance and instruction. I want to encourage all moms to really consider hiring a fitness professional. It can help you reach your full weight loss, physical fitness, and health goals. I have so much respect for the creativity and ingenuity of moms (especially those who are raising children on their own), but you do not have to try and reach your fitness goals on your own. I have had the pleasure of offering the mothers within our faith community the opportunity to incorporate weight training into their programs. And I must say they are doing great. I am waiting for my mom to really get serious about her weight training program. I often wonder what is prohibiting her from lifting weights. Maybe she is secretly trying to figure it out, like she has done so many times before in so many other situations. If you’re interested in a free consultation or more information on FitCare, call 732-921-3746 or email thefitnessdoctor@aol.com.

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

Eboné Carrington: Building Her Legacy at Harlem Hospital R.L. WITTER

boné Carrington personifies the phrase “more than meets the eye.” While on the surface she may appear as just another attractive, young woman traversing the landscape of Harlem, there’s so much bubbling beneath the surface. Raised in Harlem, she comes from a family of achievers who understand the commitment required of excellence and the importance of giving back. Her experience and confidence belie her age, and her calm yet passionate demeanor reveals the depth of her foundation. Carrington came by that foundation, as well as her desire to achieve, honestly. “I’m like my dad,” she said referring to her natural drive to succeed, which led her to degrees in Business and Public Administration from Stonybrook and NYU respectively. Her father, the late Dr. James E. McIntosh (for whom both the Dental Center at Harlem Hospital and a scholarship fund are named), was an oral surgeon who worked tirelessly for both his family and community. Dr. McIntosh was instrumental in setting his daughter on the path that led to her current position as CEO of Harlem Hospital. “I felt like I wanted to do something along the lines of business and fashion merchandising and I worked at GAP Corporate. My father said to me, ‘I don’t feel that I spent my hard-earned money on private schools and your education for you to work at The GAP,’” Carrington recalled. “‘So will you take this internship at Harlem Hospital in the finance depart-

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ment of our affiliate?’” Dr. McIntosh even sweetened the deal by offering to supplement his daughter’s income to match what she was previously making, and his sage, fatherly wisdom paid off. “I kind of happened upon healthcare,” Carrington reflected. “And I really fell in love with it.” But there’s more to Carrington’s family story at Harlem Hospital. Her mother, Gwen Elliott-McIntosh ran a program for women, infants, and children there for many years. “We have a fun fact for interviews,” Carrington chuckled. “We have 80 years of public service through Harlem Hospital between us.” As if having parents who both worked there wasn’t enough, Carrington also grew up across the street in Lenox Terrace and could see the hospital from her balcony. It seems that maybe, just maybe, her destiny was always calling —and it was a local call. ABOVE: Carrington shows a scene on the recently restored historic mural, Recreation in Harlem, by Georgette Seabrooke. It is one of the five remaining murals commissioned in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration's Federal Art Project. Harlem Hospital Center was the first WPA commission for black artists in the country and featured work from such African-American artistic masters as Charles Alston, Vertis Hayes, Georgette Seabrooke, Selma Day, Sara Murrell, Elba Lightfoot, and their assistants Jacob Lawrence, Morgan Smith, Louis Vaughn, and Beauford Delaney, among others.

continued on next page 2016 The Positive Community17 17 MayMay 2016 The Positive Community

EBONÉ CARRINGTON continued from previous page

While following her parents’ footsteps so closely could be daunting or intimidating to others, Carrington fully embraces her family’s history. “I was raised to have a legacy, to say ‘I have laid this groundwork and I hope that you carry it forward —that you bring the integrity and passion to this environment that I did,’” she explained. But don’t be mistaken, Carrington did not get this position simply because she is the child of two long-tenured former Harlem Hospital employees. A first-rate education, talent, and know-how had much to do with it. There was something else, too; that something bubbling below the surface. Having two grandfathers who were pastors has definitely impacted Carrington’s life. “My faith played a role,” she said. “Daily I pray to hide me behind the Cross and to submit to completely having my steps ordered… My pastor, Mike Walrond (First Corinthian Baptist Church, Harlem) always says ‘Just be available. Just allow yourself to be used. Open yourself up to all that God would have available to you.’ And I was available.” She continued, “I would never say ‘I am deserving,’ because quite frankly, when you say ‘I deserve this,’ you take away from God. I would say I was prepared… When I say ‘I deserve this’ or ‘this was the next logical step,’ I’m not giving God his just due, and to Him be all the Glory.”

Carrington came by that foundation, as well as her desire to achieve, honestly. “I’m like my dad,” she said referring to her natural drive to succeed, which led her to degrees in Business and Public Administration from Stonybrook and NYU respectively. A driven professional, Carrington credits God and her pastor for instilling a sense of power and empowerment in all aspects of her life. “I think that your pastor is, of course, one of your best coaches—being coached into confidence in your faith, in the seeds that you’ve planted—Before I was introduced to Pastor Mike’s ministry, I may have said ‘I don’t know if I can do it,’ ‘Someone else deserves it more,’ or ‘I’m too young for it,’” she

Eboné, her brother and parents celebrate her graduation from Stonybrook University L–R: .James McIntosh Jr., Eboné, Dr. James McIntosh and Gwen Elliott-McIntosh

18The ThePositive Positive Community Community May 18 May2016 2016

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explained. “But he teaches us to be radical disciples. He teaches us that if God gave it to you, He’ll keep you. So I do feel a different type of comfort, a different type of confidence, and definitely a victory in advance —in everything I do, as long as I’m doing it for the right reasons. And when I come to work every day, it is for the right reasons.” Carrington’s photo ought to be the first thing you see when you look up the word dedication in the dictionary. A new mother, she was still working two days before she delivered her baby because she is so ardent about the work she does and her goals for Harlem Hospital. “We want people to come to Harlem Hospital and to actually feel and experience the passion that I believe is present in our workforce. But our [Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems] scores don’t indicate that right now,” she lamented. “I always wonder—and it’s one of the things that keep me up at night— why do we have a workforce that is so dedicated, how are we as a leadership team so thrilled about working here and feeling fortunate about being part of the roadmap to success, but our patients don’t feel that?” Not one to shy away from a challenge, Carrington is prepared to move forward with her plans to achieve her goals for Harlem Hospital. “What I would like to be a defining accomplishment of this administration is to improve the way the patients and the community perceive the care and the delivery of care at Harlem Hospital. I want it to be professional; I want it to be efficient. I want there to be no difference from the experience of what we call in healthcare a luminary institution —Mt. Sinai, NYU, or Columbia Presbyterian—and coming to the city hospital,” she said. Her enthusiasm outweighs any trepidation others might feel about her endeavor to elevate the institution. “I want to improve that perception and it starts with engaging my staff differ-

Carrington’s photo ought to be the first thing you see when you look up the word dedication in the dictionary. A new mother, she was still working two days before she delivered her baby because she is so ardent about the work she does and her goals for Harlem Hospital. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Outside of work, Carrington enjoys family life with her husband, Demez, and their infant son, Chase Hunter Carrington. “I gave birth to a delicious little boy,” she gushed. “He is so wonderful!” Together since they were teenagers as college sweethearts, Eboné referred to Demez as “My Everything.” ently, empowering them to make decisions and recognizing them for the good work we’re doing . . . I live in this community and I want to come here for all of my services and I want other people to come here and experience the same service.” Outside of work, Carrington enjoys family life with her husband, Demez, and their infant son, Chase Hunter Carrington. “I gave birth to a delicious little boy,” she gushed. “He is so wonderful!” Together since they were teenagers as college sweethearts, Eboné referred to Demez as “My Everything” and praised his patience, his ability to listen and observe, and his unwavering support over nearly 20 years. “He has loved me through the journey of getting to where I’m happy where I am today.” Looking toward the future, the Carringtons are eager to continue the legacy of excellence and their own little dynasty. “We’re so excited to instill in him the pride and the legacy of being a black man who will be raised to value people, to be a disciple who transforms the world, to be good to people,” Eboné shared. “That’s going to be my signature accomplishment in this world. Many things are in my future, but that will define me, I feel.” As Mrs. Carrington prepared to return to her daily duties as CEO, I asked her if her crown as executive, wife, mother, and all of the other things she does ever feels heavy on her head. Without hesitation she replied, “I feel blessed to have these talents. I feel blessed to have been afforded these opportunities; and I will prove that I am the right person for the job. I’m confident in what I’m able to do.”

May2016 2016 The The Positive Positive Community Community 19 May 19

Healthier Together. CARING

CONNECTING

C R E AT I N G

At Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, caring is more than a job, it’s our responsibility as a business leader and citizens of this state. Through the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, we’re committed to working alongside those who can help us improve our neighbors’ health, inform their health decisions and inspire them to lead healthier more fulfilling lives. By sharing our time and resources, we aim to be not only a better company, but a better member of the communities where we work and live.

Community.HorizonBlue.com Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is the sole member of the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. Both are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield ® names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Horizon® name and symbols are registered marks of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. © 2016 Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Three Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105.

Where the Air is Rare BY GLENDA CADOGAN

arrell K. Terry, Sr. arrives at his office and begins his workday at RWJBarnabas Health at 6:30 every morning. But he does not have a job! That’s because as president and chief executive officer at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, he views his work as more of a mission. “Because of where I was born, my upbringing, and where my family receives healthcare, this job is very personal for me,” he told The Positive Community. “I am really passionate about improving the health status of the community we serve here in the RWJBarnabas Health System. So to me, this is not a job; it is a mission!” He continued: “The fact is I am tired of picking up the newspaper and seeing that Newark and the Greater Newark area have the worst infant mortality rate, higher incidents of disease, and worst outcomes. I aim to change these dynamics so we can create a healthier community with prevention, early intervention, and education as our hallmark.” With this aim in mind, Terry has set an aggressive vision plan that includes a strong emphasis on community outreach. “We need to interact with the community in such a manner that we build trust and credibility,” he explained. “In this way we can first teach how to be

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Terry delivers remarks at memorial service for Rev. Ron Christian who served as Newark Beth Israel chaplain.

healthy and, in doing so, help people help themselves.” According to Terry, in his position as president/CEO, his primary external focus is going to be on wellness. “Internally,” he said, “the emphasis is on quality care, safety, and the highest level of patient satisfaction. My goal is that we treat every patient as though they are one of my family members . . . and often times they are,” he added with a chuckle.

According to Terry, in his position as president/CEO, his primary external focus is going to be on wellness. “Internally,” he said, “the emphasis is on quality care, safety, and the highest level of patient satisfaction.” continued on next page May2016 2016 The The Positive Positive Community Community 21 May 21

DARRELL K. TERRY, SR. continued from previous page

However, the chance that a Terry family member will be treated as a patient at one of the RWJBarnabas Health System hospitals is no laughing matter. In fact, it is his family’s connection to Barnabas Health that influenced Terry’s decision to follow a career path in healthcare. The youngest of four boys, Terry was born at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC) and started his in career in healthcare in 1997 at Barnabas Health when he was a junior in college. At the time, he had 10 family members working at University Hospital. Among them was his oldest brother, who got him a summer job—his first in healthcare. Terry fell in love with the hospital environment and worked there through his college years, then took a job in the retail industry. His mother’s hospitalization at Orange Memorial Hospital signaled his return to the healthcare system. “I was absolutely inspired by the treatment she received during her stay at the hospital,” he said. “It made me want to get back into healthcare.” So he did, and worked his way through the ranks from the information desk to operations manager at Orange Memorial before moving over to NBIMC where in a year and a half, he was promoted to director of operations. Barry H. Ostrowsky, president and chief executive officer of RWJBarnabas Health, absolutely welcomed Terry’s appointment. “Darrell Terry has a wealth of valuable experience at NBIMC and CHoNJ (Childrfen’s Hospital of NJ) and solid roots in the Greater Newark area,” said Ostrowsky. “Having been born at NBIMC and growing up in the neighboring

community, Darrell has both an intimate knowledge of and love for this all-important community that we serve. He will continue to be an exceptional leader for our physicians, employees, and our patients. Prior to the merger with RWJ, Darrell served for 18 years as operations manager, corporate director, vice president, senior vice president, and chief operating officer at NBIMC and CHoNJ for Barnabas Health.” It has now been 19 years since Terry started his dance with destiny in the field of healthcare at RWJBarnabas Health System. His rise has been a meteoric one with numerous significant hallmarks including his now historic appointment as the first African American president of NBIMC and RWJBarnabas Health System. In addition, he is only one of two blacks in such a position in the State of New Jersey. However, there is a circumstance that places him in an even more challenging “where the air is rare” category. In his 19 years on the job, Terry has called out from work on one occasion. This, along with his 12-hour work days and the fact that he is at his desk on time every day, speaks volumes about his work ethic. He undeniably attributes this to his mother and his upbringing. “I was raised by my mom, who had the strongest work ethic of anybody I have ever seen,” he said. “She worked hard and took two buses to get work every day.” Though not a postal employee— she worked at the Veteran’s Administration in Newark— his mother’s work ethic embraced the USPS code. “Rain, snow, sleet, or hail, my mother would not miss work for anything,” Terry recalled, adding, “That is something that has stuck with me.” With his historic appointment, Terry’s work is now having an impact, not just in the healthcare industry, but at a community level as evidenced by this story he recounted. “I was at an event and after being introduced, a 21-year-old sophomore student came up to me and asked if she could shake my hand because she had never before met a black president/CEO. I got goose bumps,” Terry admitted. “So I am now beginning to understand that this is much bigger than me.” Michellene Davis, who is executive vice president for Corporate Affairs at RWJBarnabas Health, puts this community pride into perspective: “As the first person of color and first woman to ever ascend to executive vice president at legacy Barnabas Health, I can appreciate the impact of this new appointment to the greater community and to Darrell’s family,” she said. “However, I also DARRELL K. TERRY, SR. continued from previous page

On a wellness walk with Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka

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On a wellness walk with Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka

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deeply appreciate that Darrell is uniquely suited for this role based upon his operations, finance, and healthcare educational experience and his immense love for the Greater Newark community. I have never been prouder to be a part of the RWJBarnabas Health family.” “I believe that God has placed me in this position so I could help people,” Terry said reflectively. “And that’s what I get to do every day here at RWJBarnabas—help people. It is such a great feeling to know that we make a difference in people’s lives. That everyday we help bring people back to their families, hopefully in a better shape than when they came to us.” A married father of four and a half children (the half his is godson, who has lived with them since he was in grade school), Terry has a strong commitment to family and family life. “I balance my work and home life by being committed and present at as many family events as possible.” In this regard, he sought the advice of Rev. Phillip Gilmore, pastor of St. John’s Baptist Church in Newark. “Rev. Gilmore’s advice to me was God first, then

Encouraging students at Weequaic High School

Darrell K. Terry with Alice J. Cohen, MD, Hematologist/Oncologist and Director of the Frederick B. Cohen, MD, Comprehensive Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at NBIMC and her father, Frederick B. Cohen, MD, for whom the Center is named. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

“I believe that God has placed me in this position so I could help people,” Terry said reflectively. “And that’s what I get to do every day here at RWJBarnabas— help people. It is such a great feeling to know that we make a difference in people’s lives. family, then work. So to me a bad day is when I leave home while my children are still asleep and return after they have gone to bed.” However, Terry ensures that those “bad days” are at a minimum by committing only to what he calls “the happy hour version” of the events he must attend. It is a fitting description, since Terry gives top ranking to “happiness” as one of the most important components to success. “Life is too short not to be happy,” he said, “but no one can make you happy. Happiness is an inside job. “I wholeheartedly love my job, but it is not what makes me happy. I am happy because of who I am and what I do to help people.” And his job makes him feel special. He describes it this way: “What makes NBIMC special are the 3,500 employees who work hand-in-hand every day to improve the lives of people in our community. It is seeing a patient come in and their prognosis is poor. Yet our doctors, nurses, and clinical staff come together and create a plan that turns that person’s health around. That makes me feel really good and special.” And then there are stories like the woman who in five years had both a heart transplant and twins at NBIMC. “We don’t know of any place else where this has happened,” he said. “But it speaks volumes about the technology, the skills, and the passion of our physicians. I am just really proud to be part of something like this.” Central in Terry’s success is his prayer life, which he is committed to at 4:30 every morning. Every day, he chooses a different scripture that sets him up to face whatever is before him that day. But in the times when the “billows roll” and the dark clouds are around, he simply reminds himself of his favorite Bible passage: “I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart. Wait, I say, on the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14) Then he does . . . and all is well!

May 2016 The Positive Community

NEWARK BETH ISRAEL MEDICAL CENTER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF NEW JERSEY

Let’s Be Healthy Together For 115 years, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBIMC, The Beth) has delivered great care to the community of Newark and the residents of New Jersey. Located in the historic Weequahic section of Newark, the 673-bed regional teaching hospital, also home to Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, has more than 1,000 physicians, 3,200 employees, 150 volunteers, 300,000 outpatient visits, over 3,000 births and 25,000 admissions annually. As a teaching hospital more than 200 residents and fellows are trained each year in 18 accredited Graduate Medical Education programs. Caring for the Community Caring for our community is at the heart of our mission. The Family Health Center, an outpatient facility that has been part of the community for over 20 years, provides patients of all ages with personalized, coordinated care. Anchored by the Pediatric Health Center, Adult Health Center, Women’s Health Center, Family Treatment Center and the Center for Geriatric Health Care, the Family Health Center also has specialists in orthopedics and sports medicine, ophthalmology, pain management, and neuroscience/ neurosurgery.

enabled graduates to secure employment opportunities by the program’s nine employer partners. The Structured Learning Experience Program is a unique academic and vocational partnership with the Newark public school system, where students who have learning disabilities and other challenges complete their senior year within the halls of the hospital. Culturally competent care for a variety of populations is provided through diversity programs including the Chinese Medical Program and the Hispanic Health Outreach Program.

The Reverend Dr. Ronald B. Christian Community Health and Wellness Center at 208 Lyons Avenue is the most recent addition to the award-winning wellness initiatives (KidsFit, Beth Challenge, The Beth Garden and soon to open Greenhouse). More than two dozen classes are held each month at the Wellness Center, named after the late Rev. Dr. Ronald B. Christian, Pastor of Christian Love Baptist Church and NBIMC Board Member. Our community outreach services include annual vascular and breast cancer screenings, a Women’s Health Day, a Men’s Health Night, The Beth’s Alma Beatty Health and Wellness Fair, Newark Churches Walk for Wellness, senior health programs and more. NBIMC is also dedicated to taking care of the social and economic health of the community. Joining forces with Mayor Ras Baraka’s Center of Hope, a “Hire Newark” 5-week job readiness training program for Newark residents has

Caring for Children Children’s Hospital of New Jersey (CHoNJ), dedicated exclusively to patients from newborn to adolescence, offers the most advanced technology and family-centered care with pediatricians in over 30 sub-specialties and offices in Newark, Edison, Bayonne and West Orange. Children’s Heart Center at CHoNJ is New Jersey’s most comprehensive pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery program.

Services include a state-designated regional perinatal center, pediatric intensive care unit, neonatal ICU and a pediatric emergency department, Valerie Fund Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, and a broad range of surgeries including minimally invasive urological robotic surgery and a conscious sedation unit. Caring for Patients with Advanced Health Concerns The nationally recognized Barnabas Health Heart Center at NBIMC is home to the fifth largest heart transplant program in the nation. TAVR team led by Marc Cohen, MD, FACC, Chief of Cardiology (far left) and Mark J. Russo, MD, MS, Director of the Center for Aortic Diseases and Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery Research (far right). Since 2012, physicians at the Valve Center have performed over 500 transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVR) - far more than any other provider in New Jersey and among the highest volume nationally. Outcomes far exceed national benchmarks, including higher safety and life expectancy rates and lower risks of complications. New Jersey's only lung transplant program, the Barnabas Health Advanced Lung Disease and Transplant Program at NBIMC offers increased access to single and double lung transplant and comprehensive treatment and management of chronic and complex lung disease.

provide seamless integration of cancer prevention, specialized care and treatment options. The comprehensive Adult Sickle Cell Center treats more patients with sickle cell anemia than any other hospital in the state. The Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center provides care for children and adults with inherited and acquired coagulation disorders. Established in 2003, the Robotic Surgery Program is the broadest and most experienced in northern New Jersey with specialists in fertility, general surgery, thoracic surgery, gynecology, gynecologic oncology, urogynecology and urology.

Recognitions ●

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The new Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey Breast Health Center’s elegant, soothing spa-like environment is designed to transform breast care for the Newark-area community. Together with The Frederick B. Cohen, MD, Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, they

Joint Commission Disease Specific Certification: Stroke, Congestive Heart Failure, Ventricular Assist Device Coronary Syndrome American Hospital Association NOVA AWARD American Heart Association/American Stroke Association: Mission: Lifeline® Heart Attack Receiving (GOLD) NJBiz Healthcare Hero Physician of the Year 2015; Healthcare Hero Finalist for Education Physician of the Year, Nurse of the Year 2016 Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders Exemplar Hospital designation US News & World Report Best Hospital in the New Jersey and Metro Area. Recognized for: Cancer, Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Gastroenterology & GI Surgery, Nephrology, Neurology & Neurosurgery 2014-2015 Hospitals & Health Networks Most Wired Hospital

For more information: BarnabasHealth.org/NewarkBeth

St. Joseph’s: Powerful medicine. Compassionate care. Just for you. New Jersey’s premier Catholic healthcare system, St. Joseph’s Healthcare System, is recognized for expertise and superior quality care. With advanced treatment technologies and effective, innovative practices within new environments for healing, St. Joseph’s offers the community a unique faith-based culture of caring guided by a longstanding mission to meet each individual’s healthcare needs, from the highly complex to the routine, and everything in between. Established by its sponsors, the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth in 1867, St. Joseph’s offers a compassionate “patients first” approach to healthcare excellence and is fully committed to providing top quality services designed to heal the minds, bodies and spirits of those in need. St. Joseph’s provides comprehensive integrated services through its

The Positive Community May 2016

components: St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center/St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, a major academic medical/ trauma center and state-designated comprehensive children’s hospital in Paterson; St. Joseph’s Wayne Hospital, an acute care community hospital in Wayne; St. Vincent’s Healthcare and Rehab Center, a rehab and residential facility in Cedar Grove; Visiting Health Services of N.J., a homecare provider based in Totowa; and pediatric and adult outpatient facilities across northern New Jersey. St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center is the only four-time Magnet Recognized (for Nursing excellence) Catholic hospital in the Nation to earn ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Certification. Specialty services include cardiothoracic surgery, interventional cardiology, neurosurgery, neurology, orthopedics, oncology, pediatric specialties, robotic surgery, women’s OB/Gyn, pediatric,

adult and geriatric emergency/trauma services, and global telehealth. An academic organization with multiple affiliations, including New York Medical College and Seton Hall University, St. Joseph’s not only uses, but teaches leading-edge medicine and best practices to future clinicians. To learn more about the spectrum of services available through St. Joseph’s Healthcare System, please visit www. StJosephsHealth.org.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Antwan Lewis, co-anchor Fox News and Rhenotha Ophelia Whitaker, T.V., radio and media personality, served as hosts for the evening. Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark delivered the invocation. Grammy awarding-winning R&B legend Melba Moore took command of the audience with her rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing. She received an enthusiastic standing ovation for her virtuoso performance of Nina Simone’s civil rights anthem I Wish I Knew How it Feels to be Free. Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka welcomed everyone with opening remarks. The evening commenced with the presentation of awards and a jazz selection by a trio of students from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University led by Alexander George on tenor saxophone, Matt Gordeuk on guitar and Nick Dekens on drums.

The Positive Community Awards & Gala CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE

olleagues, friends, and family gathered on April 20th at the Newark Club for The Positive Community’s Awards Gala. Leaders in clergy, corporate, public and private institutions celebrated in the spirit of progress and goodwill as individuals and organizations in the areas of health, business, education and clergy were honored for their dedication and commitment to unselfish service in their communities. The beloved community made manifest! During the reception in One Newark Center, guests mingled and fellowshipped to the sound of beautiful music by the Harlem Symphony Orchestra’s Chamber Players. Following, the reception guests were whisked up 22 stories, to the Metropolitan Room at the Newark Club for the gala and awards presentations. Guests delighted in the stunning, panoramic views of Newark and the Manhattan skyline.

The Positive Community May 2016

In addition to the inspiring remarks from the honorees and their presenters exciting new initiatives from The Positive Community Corporation were announced: • That’s What’s Up in The Positive Community: A digital newsletter published every Thursday containing uplifting news tidbits and videos that will brighten up your week. • Positive Music Matters: A platform, a campaign, which— through social media and special events— will celebrate the vast cultural asset that is our music, the precious creative gift we have given to the world in the form of gospel, the spirituals, Blues, jazz, R&B, Hip Hop and classical music and the composers, musicians, vocalists who have made it. • TPC-TV: A digital news and information channel that will allow the expansion of The Positive Community concept to access mobile media devices. Rev. Darrell James was introduced as the elected CEO of TPC-TV. Again, thanks to everyone for the prayers and support that have sustained this vision of prosperity, health and happiness as we venture along a road less travelled. Yes, Positive Music Matters; a positive, community-building ideal matters too. When all is said and done, let it be truly said by all: a positive community is everybody’s business…it really pays to care! www.thepositivecommunity.com

Gala QUOTES “Barbara and I were truly humbly blessed to be part of that extraordinary celebration and vision sharing. I left The Positive Community Awards Gala with an overwhelming feeling of individual and collective somebodiness, which literally had me holding back tears. The event affirmed in my mind God’s positive warrant for the African American community. To witness how folk responded to the clarion call issued by you and Jean Wells, not to apologize for any short comings, but to emphatically affirm your vision for positive destiny of the African American community rooted in the unbounded grace of God. “Positive music matters,” positive media matters, positive people matter. … Infinite blessings to you, Jean and the many terrific folk associated with The Positive Community magazine.” Rev. Dr. Cornell Edmonds interim pastor New Covent Church, NYC (across from the UN)

“Thanks for reaching out and for allowing me the opportunity to experience the impact The Positive Community truly has. It was a great event!” Alison Handler PharmD Senior AE Market Access, Novo Nordisk, Inc.

“The Positive Community Awards Gala was truly an outstanding event. The bar continues to rise through the efforts of Adrian Council and Jean Nash Wells. They truly embody the meaning of service to the community!” Bill Oliver Vice President, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) • Northern NJ Chapter

“….this is one of my favorite events. …your honorees are always so inspiring. Thanks for the opportunity to partner with you!” Monica Slater-Stokes Managing Director Corporate and Government Affairs, Eastern Region United Airlines www.thepositivecommunity.com

“My experience at the recent awards gala was both invigorating and fulfilling. The Positive Community has once again proven itself to be a leader and trendsetter in the African-American community and the tri-state area at Large. I was especially impressed with The Positive Community’s connection with both local businesses and the clergy. I look forward to the organizations continued efforts to stay “in touch” with our communities, and the creation of TPC-TV is proof of the continuing growth of The Positive Community as a whole.” Donna Morris Community Development City of Plainfield

“The Red Carpet effect at The Positive Community Awards Dinner made everyone feel welcome and quite special. Not only that, the warm personal greetings that I received from the publisher, Mr. Adrian Council and the Editor-in-Chief, Ms. Jean Nash Wells exemplified the heart of The Positive Community family. The program and presentations of the community awards were professionally executed only excelled by the introduction of your new venture TPC--TV. What a timely surprise! Oh, I almost forgot - the tasteful cuisine left nothing to be desired.” Dr. Pauline Ballard Pastor Pentecostal Family Prayer Center Newark, NJ

“A great affair, well attended. We had a wonderful time… We need more exposure of people doing positive things in our community!” Rev. James Morrison President Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Greater NY and Vicinity

“This was my first opportunity to attend The Positive Community Awards dinner and as each honoree accepted his or her award, I was moved and inspired. I was fortunate to meet so many new people as well as speak with old friends.” Marion C. O’Neill Manager Corporate Contributions PSEG

Event Planner: Pauline Barfield Event Producer: Chiara Morrison

May 2016 The Positive Community

The Opening

Gus Heningburg, Jr. at the sound-check

Melba Moore being escorted into the building

The Red Carpet entrance

New cars on display, courtesy of Crown Cadillac

THE CROWN JEWEL OF CADILLAC

1584 Rt 22 East, â&#x20AC;˘ Watchung, NJ 908.561.2900 crowncadillacnj.com 30

The Positive Community May 2016

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Proud to support the 2016 Positive Community Awards and Gala.

Invocation

Melba Moore

The Positive Community May 2016

www.thepositivecommunity.com

The Board of Trustees, Administration, Faculty, Staff, Students and Alumni/ae of

New York Theological SemiNarY celebrates

The 2nd Annual Positive Community Awards and Gala and their distinguished honorees our former president

Rev. Dr. M. William Howard and

Michellene Davis The Razac Family The Black McDonald’s Owners/Operators Association Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement New York Theological Seminary offers the following: • • • • • •

Doctor of Ministry Master of Divinity Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling Master of Arts in Religious Education Master of Arts in Religious Leadership and Administration Master of Arts in Youth Ministry

• • • • •

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Certificate Program in Christian Ministry Certificate Program in Islamic Studies Certificate Program in Ministry and Leadership Certificate Program in Convergence Studies

Reception

The Positive Community May 2016

www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

GUS HENINGBURG AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY SERVICE

REV. DR. M. WILLIAM HOWARD, PASTOR EMERITUS OF BETHANY BAPTIST CHURCH PRESENTER SHANÉ HARRIS, VICE PRESIDENT OF CORPORATE GIVING, PRUDENTIAL

Dr. M. William Howard and Shané Harris

“V

ision, collaboration and commitment are the foundation to creating a positive community. As the saying goes, it takes a village. The late, Gus Heningburg Sr. was a visionary who saw no boundaries. He was committed to collaborating with people from all walks of life to create a solution. Prudential has been dedicated to supporting people in the Newark community and beyond for more than 140 years. As the vice president of Corporate Giving for Prudential, it is my honor to continue to push our company’s mission of

Mrs. Barbara and Dr. M. William Howard

community engagement and corporate responsibility forward. Pastor Emeritus of Bethany Baptist Church, Dr. Howard has been critical to developing, enriching and empowering Bethany Baptist for more than 15 years. He is a true champion and leader in the community. Just like Gus Heningburg, we know Dr. Howard’s vision and legacy will surpass his years at the pulpit on West Market.”

Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, House of the Lord Church, Brooklyn; Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Metropolitan Baptist Church, Newark; Rev. Howard and Hazel N. Duke, president, NAACP New York State Conference

The Positive Community May 2016

www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

HEALTH AWARD

MICHELLENE DAVIS, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF CORPORATE AFFAIRS OFFICER RWJBARNABAS HEALTH PRESENTER BARRY OSTROWSKY, PRESIDENT /CEO RWJBARNABAS HEALTH

“T

o commit to cultivating a positive community is to be invested in the health and wellness of the people within a community. Barnabas Health has been a celebrated and dedicated partner with The Positive Community since the beginning. The support, resources and opportunities that have been created with Barnabas Health have been critical to telling the story of how we are moving toward a healthier community. Barnabas Health could not be more honored to be a continued partner with The Positive Community. However, our partnership needs leadership and it is thanks to my colleague and community champion, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Barnabas Health, Michellene Davis, that the work is executed with commitment and grace. Michellene Davis is highly regarded by her

Michellene Davis and Barry Ostrowsky

The Positive Community May 2016

colleagues and community partners within this great city, state and far beyond. She truly believes in engaging, enriching and developing dialogue that supports strategically educating our diverse community on health initiatives to better their lives.”

Barry Ostrowsky, Michellene and Darrell Terry, Ceo Newark Beth Israel Medical Center

Monica Slater Stokes, managing director, Corporate and Government Affairs, Eastern Region, United Airlines with Michellene

NJ State Senator Ronald Rice, Michellene and Shané Harris, VP Prudential Foundation www.thepositivecommunity.com

RWJBarnabas Health proudly congratulates this evening’s honorees, including our very own

Michellene Davis, Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer.

Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton

Community Medical Center, Toms River

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Rahway

Jersey City Medical Center, Jersey City

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Somerset

Monmouth Medical Center and The Unterberg Children’s Hospital, Long Branch

Saint Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston

Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus, Lakewood

Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, Livingston

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey, Newark

Barnabas Health Behavioral Health Center, Toms River

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, New Brunswick

Children’s Specialized Hospital

EDUCATION AWARD

NY/NJ BLACK MCDONALD’S OWNERS ASSOCIATION, BRIAN HAIRSTON, PRESIDENT PRESENTER A. CURTIS FARROW, CEO. IRVING STREET REP AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER MCDONALD’S GOSPEL FEST

“E

ducation begins in our homes, in our churches and then in our schools. It is vital for all three to work congruently to develop a positive space for our children to thrive.

Brian Hairston

NY / NJ Black McDonald’s Operators Association has been an on-going partner with Jean Nash Wells and Adrian Council long before The Positive Community was even a thought. The late Lee Dunham worked closely to support The Positive Community when the publication became an idea and McDonald’s was one of the very first advertisers in the magazine. Sixteen years later, it is timely and appropriate that we celebrate this valued partnership by celebrating the great work of Brian Hairston, and BMOA—NY/NJ Black McDonald’s Operators Association has done exceptional work to afford young people the opportunity to attend college through their robust schol-

A. Curtis Farrow, Irving Street Rep; Brian Hairston, Hon. Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of Newark; Linda Dunham, Nellie and Herb Thomas

arship program. Thank you again for being committed to opening doors for our future generations.

McDonald’s Owner/Operators Herb and Nellie Thomas ; Brian Hairston and Linda Dunham with A. Curtis Farrow, Gospelfest producer

The Positive Community May 2016

Gospel Impresario Dr. Albert Lewis and A. Curtis Farrow, Irving Street Rep www.thepositivecommunity.com

Deeply rooted in the community ®

2016 Ray Kroc Award recipient Billivens Sanon

Billivens Sanon of Oakridge, NJ started working with the Cottrell Organization after moving from Haiti in 2002. He was promoted to manager after only a year and has stayed with the organization since. Sanon can be counted on as a proponent of positive change. His pr shadow is profound within the community and organization he represents, and is consistently looked for to lead the way with business efforts. His strength lies in his positive innuence on his team, which reeects into his customer experience and in return, ranks his store top in the region for overall customer satisfaction.

2016 Ray Kroc Award recipient Patricia Tulloch

Established in 1999, the Ray Kroc Award was created in memory of McDonald's founder, Ray Kroc, to acknowledge hardworking restaurant managers who make his vision of excellence come to life in the restaurants and for customers every day.

Patricia Tulloch of Rosedale, NY is an employee of McDonald’s McDonald franchisee Dave Hatton. Originally from Jamaica, Tulloch is the General Manager of a Brooklyn McDonald's where she leads a crew of 50 employees. Patricia’s vision is to be a role model for what she expects from the management team and fr crew each and every day, working both sides of the counter with energy and enthusiasm. This leads to a changing culture where she empowers her team to provide an exceptional level of service to her customers, while running one of the highest volume restaurants in the region.

McDonald’s New York Tri-State Area Franchisees and McDonald's Corporation are proud to celebrate the 2016 Ray Kroc Award winners! www.mcdonaldsnytristate.com www.365black.com

@McDNYTriState ©McDonald’s 2016

BUSINESS AWARD

RAZAC PRODUCTS COMPANY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DARREN DOWDY, CEO PRESENTER LOWELL HAWTHORNE, CEO GOLDEN KRUST CARIBBEAN BAKERY

â&#x20AC;&#x153;F

amily is so very important. Mentorship is even more important and when you can create a mentorship within your family to create value for the future, you know you have done a good job. Razac Products Company has been dedicated to cultivating the future from the very beginning. Razac is family owned, Newark based and one of the few black businesses that still manufacture their own products with a global reach. The commitment to family is evident in their commitment to community. Razac supports the future by fundraising for scholarships, creating events for youth and much more. The Positive Community thanks Razac for their commitment to business and the publication for all of these years. Razac you are truly an example of excellence.

Lowell Hawthorne CEO Golden Krust, Darren and Jalil Dowdy

Brothers: Darren Dowdy, president/CEO, Razac, Jalil Dowdy VP Marketing with their cousin, Cary Hines

Please join me in welcoming, the entire Razac Products and Company team and family led by CEO Darren Dowdy, CEO to accept the Business Award.

The Hawthornes: Daren, Omar, their Mom, Lorna and Dad, Lowell

The Positive Community May 2016

Cary Hines, Charlee Hines, Darren and Jalil www.thepositivecommunity.com

DIVERSITY AWARD

PUERTO RICAN ASSOCIATION FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT (PRAHD)

YVONNE LOPEZ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PRESENTER DEAN WARREN SCHOMBURG, AUTHOR, EDUCATOR, GRANDSON OF ARTURO SCHOMBURG (SCHOMBURG CENTER FOR RESEARCH AND BLACK CULTURE HARLEM)

Yvonne Lopez, her mother Miriam Lopez, Carole Dortch-Wright, Sam Delgato and Bruno Tedeschi, principal, Jaffe Communications

â&#x20AC;&#x153;P

RAHD, founded in 1974 is committed to serving all people regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability or national origin. Under the leadership of Executive Director, Yvonne Lopez, PRAHD is focused on the development of the human potential. The annual Roberto Clemente Gala is in its 30th year and has been critical to assisting the funding of the programs

Yvonne and Jean

The Positive Community May 2016

designed to improve the social, economic, health and educational status of the community in a culturally sensitive environment. If the mission of PRAHD was the way that we all lived our lives, we would live in a high functioning integrated and culturally aware society. So, today, I ask you to celebrate their mission, praise the leadership.

Dean Warren Schomburg, Marylyn Blackstone, Min. Carole Dortch-Wright, Yvonne, her mother Miriam Lopez and Sam Delgado, VP External Affairs, Verizon New Jersey www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

FAITH AWARD

HARLEM CONGREGATIONS FOR COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT REV. CHARLES CURTIS, PASTOR, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD PRESENTER REV. JAMES MORRISON, PRESIDENT, BAPTIST MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE OF GREATER NY AND VICINITY AND REV. JOHN SCOTT, VP BAPTIST MINISTERS’ CONFERENCE OF GREATER NY AND VICINITY

“F

aith has been the foundation to our community since the very beginning. The intersection between faith and community development continues to be one of the most critical partnerships to sustain progression in a neighborhood, city or state. The approach and advocacy from Faith based organizations is holistic which only continues to be progressive and impactful. Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) is a faith based organization that is committed to the holistic revitalization of Harlem. By providing economic development and empowerment opportunities, HCCI has been vital to the re-building and sustainability for Harlem residents.

Reverends John Scott, Charles Curtis and James Morrison, president of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity

Rev. Keith W. Roberson, treasurer and Malcolm Punter, interim president HCCI

Rev. Dale Irvin, president New York Theological Seminary and Rev. Curtis

Rev. Charles Curtis and First Lady Mary Curtis

HCCI is exactly what The Positive Community seeks to do: Improve our Community from the ground up. Though the approach may be different, the vision is the same. HCCI has been an on-going supporter of The Positive Community throughout its existence and only continues to be more relevant as our communities and generational relationships with the church change. The ability to create space and provide resources for African Americans and their brothers and sisters to thrive is the key to the success of our population. 46 The Positive Community May 2016

Adrian, Rev. Curtis and Jean www.thepositivecommunity.com

www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

TheCounc i lFa mi l y

Lisa Nash, Nick Dekens, Alex George, Toni Nash, Matt Gordeuk and Kaylah Nash Alex, Nick and Matt students at Rutgersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mason Gross School of the Arts played a jazz selection

Jonathan Council and April Davis

TPCTV

Rev. Darrell James, CEO TPC-TV

Rev. Darrell James and Don Viapree

Photography: Duane Anthony Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Bob Gore Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Tthe TPC-TV Team: Christa Miller, Darrell & Nicole James, Dusha Holmes and Josh Passaretti www.thepositivecommunity.com

Karen Waters May 2016 The Positive Community

Sponsors & Supporters Churches/ Organizations A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR GALA SPONSORS AND AD JOURNAL SUPPORTERS: Prudential Verizon United Airlines RWJ Barnabas Health BMOA McDonald’s Horizon Blue Cross/Blue Shield Horizon NJ Health Novo Nordisk Shiloh Baptist Church, Trenton, NJ – Rev. Dr. Darrell L. Armstrong, Pastor Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD) Perth Amboy, NJ – Yvonne Lopez, Executive Director/CEO Carver Federal Savings Bank City National Bank Wells Fargo PNC Bank PC2E Healthfirst Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery General Baptist Convention of New Jersey – Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Convention President Bethany Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York – Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Senior Pastor Nell Irvin Painter North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association – Rev. Ralph M. Branch, Jr., Moderator Convent Avenue Baptist Church – Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams Jr., Senior Pastor New Jersey Institute of Technology – NJIT Newark Celebration 350 St. Paul Community Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY – Rev. David K. Brawley, Lead Pastor Bob Torricelli U.S. Senator Cory Booker

The Positive Community May 2016

Mayor Ras. J. Baraka Ambassador Phillip Murphy Congressman Charles B. Rangel Joseph N. DiVincenzon, Jr., Essex County Executive Union Baptist Temple – Bridgeton, NJ, Pastor Albert Morgan West Harlem Group – Executive Director, Donald C. Notice The Chad School Foundation – Dr. Kia Calhoun-Grundy, Board Chair; Ms. Kim Weeks Johnson, Board Treasurer, and Mr. Reginald Lewis, Executive Director Shiloh Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ The Sickle Cell Disease Community Forum II The Church of The Covenant, New York City – Rev. Dr. Cornell A. Edmonds, Interim Pastor The Eagle Academy Foundation Kipp New Jersey MZM Construction & Management Community Baptist Church of Englewood – Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., Senior Pastor NJ Transit Felician University Rutgers University - Newark Bethany Baptist Church, Newark, NJ – Rev. Dr. M. William Howard, Jr. Pastor Emeritus Newark Municipal Council Members New York Theological Seminary (NYTS) The Disciples of Messiah Baptist Church in Bridgeport, CT – Pastor James B. & Lady Virginia Logan New Jersey Economic Development Authority Essex County College New Brunswick Theological Seminary National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Metropolitan Room at the Newark Club Gerald Owens

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Don’t let diabetes and hypertension control your life.

if you suffer or are at risk for diabetes and hypertension, saint Peter’s university Hospital can help. if you are 18 years of age or older, you can receive high quality care to better manage these chronic diseases—even if you have no insurance or not enough of it to cover long-term medical expenses. in one convenient location at The Diabetes and Hypertension center at saint Peter’s Family Health center, you can benefit from comprehensive care provided by physicians, nurses, a nutritionist and a social worker, all experienced in helping you to better manage your diabetes and hypertension. in addition to primary care and follow-up care, we offer: ■

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education on managing medications and living and coping with chronic disease; nutrition counseling; Foot, skin and eye care;

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support groups; information about community resources; and extended hours on wednesdays until 7 pm and saturdays from 8:30 am - 12:30 pm.

our goal is to help you make healthy lifestyle changes so that you can succeed in managing your diabetes and hypertension, and ultimately, reduce emergency room visits and hospital stays. To learn more about The Diabetes and Hypertension Center at Saint Peter’s Family Health Center, call 732.339.7672 or visit saintpetershcs.com

123 How Lane, new Brunswick, nJ 08901

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732.339.7672

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saintpetershcs.com

Giving Back After a Second Chance at Life The medicine which kept Keath alive until his transplant also destroyed his liver and he received a liver transplant at the same time during a 12 hour surgery to give him a true second chance at life.

Keath, 3rd from left, with other volunteers at NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life.

rgan and tissue donation and transplantation saves lives and Keath Gerald of Plainfield, New Jersey knows this firsthand. At only 22 years old, Keath’s health was failing. Doctors discovered that he had an irregular heartbeat and needed to see a cardiologist to figure out his next steps. Little did Keath know that he would soon find out that he needed a heart transplant in order to survive. Keath’s heart was only functioning at 32 percent. He needed a defibrillator implanted to control his heartbeat and was prescribed medicine that brought its own side effects and dangers. Daily life became a struggle as he dealt with continual fatigue. Time was running out and Keath desperately needed a miracle. In August 2015, a miracle finally came for Keath when he received his heart transplant. However, that was not the only life-saving gift he received.

It has been less than a year since Keath Gerald’s life was saved by organ donation and transplantation, but he is already paying it forward in his community. Unfortunately, there are 5,000 people in New Jersey in need of a life-saving transplant as Keath once was and there are not enough available organs. Volunteers like Keath work with NJ Sharing Network, the nonprofit organization in New Jersey responsible for saving lives through organ and tissue donation, to encourage others to learn more about donation.

of life. April’s event was NJ Sharing Network’s first of three locations for the 5K Celebration of Life event in 2016. Keath and 10,000 others now look forward to June 5 when the second 5K Celebration of Life event will be held at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence, NJ. The day consists of a USATF Certified 5K Race, a 5K walk, food, music, prizes and more. Those interested can start a team, sign up as a participant, make a contribution or volunteer. The third and final event of 2016 will be held on August 21 at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, NJ. Keath will walk with his team, Heartopia, in celebration of the one year anniversary of his life-saving transplants.

It has been a busy few months for Keath as he has spoken at hospitals, presented to high school students and shared his story with the media. One highlight is NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life at Bergen Community College where Keath volunteered for the day. The 5K Celebration of Life is a gathering of the organ and tissue donation community to honor those who have given the gift of life, pay tribute to those who have received transplants, offer hope to those who are waiting for a transplant and remember those whose lives were lost while waiting for the gift

Over 531 lives were saved thanks to the generosity of organ donors and their families in New Jersey in 2015, but there is a lot of work left to do. Volunteers like Keath and events like the 5K Celebration of Life help to save more lives and give families more time with their loved ones.

JOIN US AT NJ SHARING NETWORK’S 5K CELEBRATION OF LIFE

. Start or Join a Team . Sign up as an Individual . Make a Contribution . Sponsor . Volunteer www.NJSharingNetwork.org/5K

THANKS FOR

APRIL 24, 2016 • 5K Walk/Run • Paramus, NJ YOUR SUPPORT!

JUNE 5, 2016 • 5K Walk & USATF Certified Race • New Providence, NJ AUGUST 21, 2016 • 5K Walk/Run • Lincroft, NJ Whether you participate in the 5K or the many other event festivities, join us for a fun-filled celebration including music, snacks, prizes and exciting activities for all ages.

#NJSN #NJSN5K #CelebrateLife Funds raised by the NJ Sharing Network Foundation provide research, donor family support, education and public awareness about the life-saving benefits of organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

To learn more, get involved and register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org

Tribute to Miriam Makeba

he beautiful and talented Somi performed “Dreaming Zenzile” on Friday, April 22, 2016 as a tribute to Miriam Makeba at The Apollo Music Cafe.

Happy Birthday! Mayor Ras J. Baraka

big 47th birthday bash was recently held for Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. Photo shows Mayor with his birthday cake, a replica of City Hall, with his campaign sologan on the top “We are Newark”. www.thepositivecommunity.com

St. John’s Baptist Church (SJBC) March Men’s Fellowship Breakfast

L-R: Michael Smith, Deacon Ronald Suggs, Bro. Troy Randall; Guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Evans Spagner, Legal Shield and Interim Pastor SJBC

May 2016 The Positive Community

H C C I C e l e b r a t e s 3 0 Ye a r s “Let Us Break Bread Together” Awards Dinner”

arlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) celebrated its 30th Anniversary “Let Us Break Bread Together” Awards Dinner on Thursday, April 21, 2016 at Marina del Rey in Throgs Neck, NY. Honored for their continued support for HCCI and its vision of the future of the community it

serves were: •New York State Assemblyman Herman Denny Farrell, Jr., HCCI’s most prestigious Canon Frederick Boyd Williams Community Service Award endowed by the Rockefeller Foundation •Anthony M. Harmon, president of New York Branch NAACP and director of Com-

munity & Parent Outreach, UFT: Humanitarian Award •Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram, presiding prelate, First Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Church: Distinguished Service Award •Ron Moelis, CEO and founding co-partner, L&M Development Partners: Community Photos: Bruce Moore

Honoree Ron Moelis

Honoree Anthony Harmon

L-R: HCCI Board members Imam Talib Abdur Muhammad, corporate secretary; HCCI Chairman Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Ed.D.; First Vice Chair Joan O. Dawson, Ph. D.; Second Vice Chair, George H. Weldon, Jr.; and Treasurer, Rev. Keith W. Roberson

The Positive Community May 2016

Honoree Dr. Vivian Taylor

Honoree Preston Pinkett III

L-R: Honoree Assemblyman Herman Denny Farrell, Jr.; former Mayor David N. Dinkins; HCCI Chair Rev. Charles A. Curtis, Ed. D.; Congressman Charles B. Rangel; Council Member Inez E. Dickens; and Assemblyman Farrell’s daughter Sophia celebrate at the gala. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Builder Award •Preston D. Pinkett, III, chair/ CEO, City National Bank of New Jersey: Corporate Leadership Award •Vivian A. Taylor, Ed.D., associate dean of Diversity & Cultural Affairs, Columbia University School of Nursing: Community Partner Award. HCCI’s interim president/ CEO Malcolm A. Punter greeted HCCI supporters and proudly announced the upcoming completion of the 153rd Street Corridor. “We are celebrating 30 years of tremendous impact on the Harlem community,” he said. “We are also nearing completion of the of the 153rd Street corridor. HCCI’s founding members envisioned this, so bringing this project to fruition, 30 years later, is a major milestone. And of course, it was my first public event serving as interim president and CEO, a role that—as a lifelong member of this community—I will pursue with passionate dedication.” Spirits were high as Congress-

man Rangel surprised guests with an impromptu presentation, enlisting former Mayor David N. Dinkins and NYC Councilmember Inez E. Dickens to join him in presenting citations to Assemblyman Farrell and HCCI Chairman Dr. Charles A. Curtis. “This evening was incredibly special. Rangel, Dinkins, and Farrell have each stood by HCCI since our inception 30 years ago,” Dr. Curtis stated. “The citations are a wonderful accent on the importance of the impact HCCI has made in Harlem, and our honorees are symbolic of HCCI’s strength and vision for a future marked by improved social services and an increasingly stimulated local economy.” In addition to the awards, three local high school seniors received scholarships. Ramier Williams and Ryan Brown each received the HCCI/H&N Insurance Agency & Financial Group Scholarship Award of $1,000, which is funded by the Ghaness family. Anu Osibajo received the Canon Frederick

Boyd Williams Community Service Scholarship Award of $1,000, which is funded each year by the Rockefeller Foundation. Proceeds from the event benefit the ongoing work of HCCI, a diverse, interfaith consortium of congregations established to revitalize the physical, economic, cultural, and spiritual life of the Harlem community. To learn more about HCCI and to view testimonials by residents impacted by HCCI’s programs, please visit www.hcci.org.—JNW

L-R: Donald Notice and Rev. Al Taylor

Scholarship winners Ramier Williams and Ryan Brown (holding awards) with VJ Ghaness and AJ Ghaness who fund the scholarship.

Interim President and CEO Malcolm A. Punter HCCI

L-R: Elder Melvin Wilson, Bishop Gregory Ingram, and Rev. James E. Booker, Jr.

L-R: Willie Blalock, City National Bank and Walter Edwards, Harlem Business Alliance

www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

REV. DR. CHARLES BUTLER WEALTH BUILDING

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

In God We Trust?

here is a passage of scripture found in Joshua chapter 9:3-15, that teaches us the disastrous consequences that can befall a nation when people do not include God in the decision-making process. We find that was exactly the situation the nation of Israel experienced when they failed to consult God before making an important decision. Their failure produced an outcome that had longterm severe repercussions. In this passage, we find Joshua and the Israelite leaders making a decision without first seeking guidance from the Lord. The Gibeonite delegation used blatant deception to manipulate them into making a peace treaty. However, three days after making this treaty, Israel learned the truth about the Gibeon. The delegation was not from a distant land but were neighbors, living in the land God had promised to give to Israel. The whole Israel assembly grumbled and complained against their leaders for making this poor decision. They felt compelled to attack Gibeon and take the land God had intended for them. However, since the Israelite leaders had made a sworn oath to the Lord, they had to honor their commitment to the Gibeonites and refused to allow Israel to attack them. They had to go even a step further, defending the Gibeonites when the surrounding nations attacked them for agreeing to this peace treaty. (Joshua 10:7) This story is relevant for our nation today because our leaders continue to make decisions that have far-reaching and disastrous implications without first consulting God. Israel had to suffer the consequences for their actions. Will America also have to pay a heavy price for her arrogance and disobedience for not heeding the Word of God? Our country continues to fall into apostasy as we seek to control our own destiny. We are driven to do the things that are pleasing to our physical senses rather than seeking to please God. Our court system has fallen victim to the immoral majority by becoming too liberal and deciding that God’s Holy law should no longer be the law of the land. Our political leaders have decided it is more profitable to yield to popular opinion rather than to serve God. These leaders apparently have failed to realize that it

56 The The Positive 2016 56 Positive Community CommunityMay May 2016

is God who is ultimately responsible for them being elected to office in the first place. (Romans 13:1-2) The presidential campaign is clearly another indication that we are not consulting God as we prepare to make the most crucial decision in the selection process. We, again, are being led in the wrong direction by deception and manipulation. The leading candidate is running on a platform of hate, greed, and fear. This message is the motivator for the vote of many people. Not seeking God in making this decision can only lead to a terrible outcome. However, it may be God’s judgment coming onto a nation that has turned away from God. Before making your decision, look at this wonderful passage of scripture in the Book of Proverbs, chapter 3:56. It states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” For those who believe in the Word of God, we must stand firm on His promises. Let us not be held hostage by fear or the other tricks of the enemy. God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. (2nd Timothy 1:7) Before making a decision, seek God’s counsel. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Education TEACHING, LEARNING, MAKING A DIFFERENCE

L-R: Edward Callahan, Urshelle Leung, Nicole Vega, Chris Anthony, Willana Mack, Laticia Smith, Kalia Baptiste, Stephanie Fisher – Oplacio, and Robert Aviles

Gospel Music Embraced by Academia

PHOTO AND TEXT BY g.r. mattox

Degree in Gospel Music Performance is latest offering at New York College

n the top floor of an office building several blocks south of the World Trade Center, a long line of young people, dressed in sober black, wait silently in the brightly lit corridor. Heeding a signal, they file into a room at the end of the hall. The room is where the twice-weekly chapel service takes place at the Manhattan campus of Nyack College. The young people in black are members of the college’s chorale. After a reflection on Psalm 71, the chorale renders a beautiful and contemplative rendition of “Adoramus Te (Adiemus)” composed by Karl Jenkins. This version is a secular piece with Christian lyrics added by the New York campus’ dean of Music. This musical assemblage is recognized as the soul of a wide-ranging music program at Nyack, but another recently formed musical group has made an impressive impact and heralds a new and innovative curriculum at www.thepositivecommunity.com

the school — Gospel Music Performance. Last summer Darryl Jordan, a music professor with extensive experience in classical and jazz music, founded Nyack’s Gospel Touring Ensemble. By the end of the year, a tour of Italy was in the works. This year they performed in the chambers of the New York City Council during Black History Month, blessing the audience’s ears with such songs as “Dwell in the House,” by Gale Jones Murphy, “Holy Holy,” by Richard Smallwood, and “Bless Me (Prayer of Jabez),” by Donald Lawrence. Since its creation, the appearance schedule for the ensemble is filling up fast. They recently performed on a dinner cruise, and they will minister at a church in Vermont this month. They have performances scheduled in Maine and Connecticut over the summer, and local churches have invited them to perform. International tours are in place for the next two semesters. continued on next page

May 2016 The Positive Community

continued from previous page

Strong support of this venture comes with firm desire and a clear calling. That clarity came to Willana Mack one morning. Working on a 9-to-5 job for a few years, Mack, who earned a psychology/music degree at Nyack, woke up with the yearning to just sing and work in her musical calling. She quit that job, went back to Nyack and worked as the music department’s secretary. Currently, she is an adjunct professor in the Music department, teaching several courses and acting as the director of the touring ensemble during and since the July performances. Gospel music has traveled from the church sanctuary to civil rights marches; has been heard at the Berlin Wall, Tiananmen Square, and during the Arab Spring,

L-R: The Talleys, Drs. Sue Lane and Dana with Willana Mack

but its presence in college lecture halls, unlike jazz and classical music, has been scant. In some circles, because the music is emotional—coming from the heart and the soul, the struggle and pain of African Americans— it is felt that it cannot be taught on an academic level as other musical genres are. That is about to change at Nyack College, a university affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance and among the most ethnically diverse Christian colleges in the U.S. The school, branded as New York’s Christian College, launches a major in Gospel Music Performance degree this fall. The four-year, 120-credit course of study is unique. A similar degree is obtainable at the University of the District of Columbia, but no Christian college offers such course work. The program was created by Nyack music professors—husband-and-wife team, Drs. Sue Lane and Dana Talley. Both are well-known classical concert and stage performers in their own right, and Sue Tally, dean of the music school, wanted to help usher the musical genre up to the next step. “Gospel music requires passion, giftedness, and skill,” Sue Talley wrote in an announce-

The Positive Community May 2016

ment message from the school. “As such, it has a place of honor in higher education and deserves to be shared, preserved, and taught at the university level.” “Though the Gospel Performance major is new,” Talley continued, “I believe we at Nyack College have taught our undergraduates much about Gospel music already through the classes we have offered and the freedom we have given them as performers and teachers.” DanaTalley, professor of Music and director of Vocal Studies, displaying an eight-semester listing of courses and requirements, said it is the blueprint that will build on the students’ gospel experience and give them solid credentials. “It really means that students are taking a course of study that will lead to graduate school, or prepare them for a job in any field.” Indeed, there are the prerequisite courses in English, History, Languages and Social Science, but there are also classes in Music and Worship, Old and New Testament Literature, Ear Training, Gospel Music History, Hymnody & Psalmody, and Gospel/Jazz Harmony. A course in Music Business is mandatory in the curriculum. “No matter how great a performer you may become, you must still know how to understand a contract and copyright laws as well as read music,” said Dana Talley. “Gospel music is both a church-related field as well as entertainment. The business side is incredibly important if it is to be not only your calling — but your livelihood.” Professor Mack, who has been singing since she was ten, has an extensive performance schedule, including appearances at Avery Fisher Hall, Madison Square Garden, and the 80th Annual Academy Awards. Mack has been interviewed by The Washington Post and National Public Radio about the College’s new major because of her extensive involvement in developing the curriculum. She is excited about tackling the genre in a way that exists nowhere else in academia. A member and worship leader at the Lighthouse Church, she sees that a degree in Gospel Performance can only enhance a performer’s knowledge and understanding of what they are singing. “It does not mean you’re not good at what you do, you are,” Mack explains. “But a performer’s calling is to make your audience relate to what you are doing. Good gospel singers, good opera singers are really communication points; you have to sing intensely, intently, and with love. All music is about the audience, not about the singer.” There are so many different types of Gospel music and Nyack College has experienced most one way or another. The Gospel Music Performance degree definitely does not deny the heritage of Gospel music. It builds on it, giving the musician greater confidence in music and the Word of God, and is yet another answer to many students who choose Nyack as the place to further their education —to deepen their ability to share that Word in their calling. www.thepositivecommunity.com

PREPARE TO LEARN • PREPARE TO GROW • PREPARE TO SERVE

JOIN OUR CHRISTIAN ACADEMIC COMMUNITY.

WWW.NYACK.EDU 877.626.2236 2 WASHINGTON STREET NEW YORK, NY 10004

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800.876.9225 1 SOUTH BOULEVARD NYACK, NY 10960

May 2016 The Positive Community

The Positive Community May 2016

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Savage Speaker Series Kicks-off Frank Savage and Ed Lewis Talk to Youth about Business and Life

n Thursday, April 21, Essence magazine Co-founder Ed Lewis and Global Financier Frank Savage (who was featured in The Positive Community in June 2015) came together to partner with the nonprofit Harlem Educational Activities Fund (HEAF). The two kicked off a speaker series program aimed at introducing high profile, successful African Americans, outside of sports and entertainment, to high potential yet underserved young people in the HEAF program. As sons of the tumultuous ‘60s, Lewis and Savage are using HEAF’s speaker series —named after Savage — to bridge the gap between the older generation and today’s youngsters who face similar challenges growing up in an era when a #BlackLivesMatter movement has become necessary. Both memoirists (The Man from Essence: Creating a Magazine for Black Women and The Savage Way: Successfully Navagating the Waves of Business and Life), they are now bringing their respective journeys from humble beginnings to global success, up close and personal to the audience they believe can benefit the most— inner city youth. This is not the first time Lewis and Savage have worked on a project together. Savage

WELCOME TO THE LARGEST PUBLIC COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE NORTHEAST

(Standing) L-R: Makoura Traore; Justin Davis; Semhar Soloman; HEAF executive director Ruth Rathblott; Christina McDonald; Board Member Brett McCollough; Marquis Taylor; Monica Bertrand; Teja Deonarine; and HEAF Board Chair Daniel Rose (Seated) L-R: Edward Lewis; and Frank Savage

was instrumental in securing the start-up financing for Essence and served on its board of directors for many years. The young people listened intently as the two men talked about their upbringing, their ups and downs and how they were able to overcome many obstacles and forge successful careers and productive lives.

SUMMER SESSIONS @ CITY TECH 10 WEEKS. 3 SESSIONS. 1 CAMPUS.

COMPLETE UP TO ONE YEAR OF STUDY IN THREE MONTHS APPLY NOW: WWW.CITYTECH.CUNY.EDU/SUMMER

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CITY TECH www.thepositivecommunity.com

300 Jay Street • Brooklyn, NY 11201

718.260.5500

May 2016 The Positive Community

et’s play with some numbers. Ready? Try this one: According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, an individual who has earned a bachelor’s degree can expect to earn, in the course of a working lifetime, over one million dollars more than a person who has only a high school diploma. That’s an average of $25,000 more a year over a 40-year career. Any way you slice it, that’s a pretty impressive figure. Whether we like it or not, much of life is about numbers, bottom lines, making ends meet. If the numbers above don’t seem reason enough to get a college education, perhaps you should read them again! At Touro College’s New York School of Career and Applied Studies (NYSCAS), we believe that our school can help put you on the road that will make that kind of economic difference in your career. Why NYSCAS? Maybe it’s our wide variety of programs, from business to paralegal studies, to human services, to digital multimedia design and more. Maybe it’s because at NYSCAS you instantly become a member of the Touro College family, treated with special concern and care from the moment you enroll to the day you receive your diploma. Maybe it’s our professional staff of advisors who will help you with admissions, program planning, and any concerns you may have during the course of your college education. Maybe it’s our highly skilled financial aid counselors, who will do their utmost to help you get you every dollar you qualify for so that you can afford your education (generous in-house scholarships are also available to those who qualify).

The Positive Community May 2016

Sound good so far? There’s more. One of the great advantages at NYSCAS is convenience. We have a total of 7 convenient locations in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan, each one very close to mass transportation. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening classes—even on Sundays—all designed to fit the busy schedules that so many of our students must keep up with. So what’s the downside? None that we can see! Yes, it’s college and you are going to work hard for your degree, but as Thomas Paine pointed out in The American Crisis, “What we obtain too cheap, we value too lightly.” And yes, you’ll earn your degree through individual effort, but you’ll never be alone. Our faculty will be there to help you every step of the way, bringing their academic expertise and years of real-world experience to the classroom. Why not give us a call at 212-463-0400 ext. 5500 and make an appointment to come in and speak with one of our admissions counselors? Or drop by one of our many sites whenever it’s convenient for you. You can also log onto our website at nyscas.touro.edu and find descriptions of the programs and courses that are available to you. Give us a call! Isn’t it about time that you got into the numbers game yourself? Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, please visit www.touro.edu

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Culture L I F E , M U S I C , A R T & L I T E R AT U R E

Ivory Coast Diaspora meets at Peace Conference Idris Ena Kone Finds Active Listening as the Key to Resolving Conflict

n Saturday, April 2, 2016, Idris “Drissa” Ena Kone hosted a peace conference with civic and religious leaders from the Ivory Coast diaspora community in New York City at Manhattan’s Unification Theological Seminary (UTS). Kone is in his final year of a Doctor of Ministry program in Peace and Justice at UTS. His desire to understand and resolve conflict led him to research the impact of the First and Second Ivorian Civil Wars on the Ivorian community in New York. Kone’s journey began in 2002. Unjustly arrested and tortured as a rebel in the first civil war because of his name, which communicated his Muslim identity. The allegations of his support for the rebels were completely unfounded. At Saturday’s conference, Kone shared that this experience instigated a desire for vengeance at first, but finally it was a deeply humbling and transformative experience. “After I was arrested and tortured, I was determined to become a killer,” he confessed. “But I didn’t, because I had a spiritual experience with Christ on the last night of my imprisonment. Christ called me to walk the path of forgiveness, and I responded that I would.” Shortly thereafter, Kone joined the Unification movement, which inspired and enabled him to continue pursuing practical ways to resolve conflict and to foster forgiveness, peace, and unity between warring groups. He began his search in the Ivory Coast and eventually came to America, where he received a Master of Divinity degree at UTS and a Master of Diplomacy, with a concentration in Conflict Management and Negotiation at Norwich University in Vermont, before beginning his Doctor of Ministry degree at UTS in 2013. Kone reported the primary finding from his doctoral research, namely, that the practice of “active listening” is the key to strengthening relationships and resolving conflict. “My studies showed me that this was the practical way to love sacrificially, even when we, ourselves, are hurting,” he said. “We often feel like we have to say what we think is right, but we often do this at the expense of our relationships. I realized that I have to listen www.thepositivecommunity.com

BY MI YOUNG GERIN EATON MI first to understand. If we don’t understand, we can never love and we can never achieve peace.” For Kone, the conference represented the fruits of his research. He was able to gather Ivorians of different ethnicities, religions, and political affiliations—all touched by the violence of the civil wars in some way—together in one room through the mutual trust and love he had built by actively listening. Several of the leaders in attendance spoke of their gratitude for and pride in Kone for the work that he has done. The Hon. Christophe Kouakou, consulate general of the Ivory Coast in New York, commented. “To you, my young brother, Mr. Kone, I would like to say I am particularly proud that you recognize the value of forgiveness. That is the foundation of all social life, all community life, both in the diaspora and the Ivorian nation.” Imam Souleymane Konate of the Majid Al-Aqsa Mosque in New York commented, “I’m so proud of this young man because the project is a very productive one and he did a good job. Bringing all these people together is a great accomplishment, and the presentation itself was also great. I was sharing with some of the leaders just now, ‘Drissa started it. Let us finish it.’ The choice Drissa gave us today, if we act on it, will definitely bring our people together in love, peace, and harmony.” Representatives from Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA, including President Richard De Sena, attended the conference. “I think it was a great event and very significant,” De Sena remarked. “It was great to see Ivorians of different ethnicities and religions coming together in an environment of tolerance, respect, harmony, and I would say, love. Mr. Kone has accomplished a great work of peace today.” Dr. Hugh Spurgin, president of UTS, also shared, “Mr. Kone is trying to bring Ivorians together, regardless of their differences of faith, to work for peace in the Ivory Coast. Interfaith studies and relations are a hallmark of UTS; the student body, as well as the faculty, are from very diverse religious backgrounds. Our mission is ‘bridging religious and cultural divides.’” May 2016 The Positive Community

Ghana Music Week A Catalyst for Tourism

n just over two years, Ghana Music Week has become one of Africa’s most anticipated events. The Festival was held in Ghana from March 1st to 7th, 2016. It was officially opened with an hour-long live TV launch on GH-One TV. March 2nd was declared Ghana Music Day (GMD) by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts in collaboration with the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA). Radio and television stations in the country adjusted their programming comprising over 70% Ghanaian content. Ghana Music Week 2016 witnessed a cross-cultural communication through music at the first International Music Expo and Ghana Music Honours held at the National Theater in Accra on March 4th, 2016. Packed with activities ranging from concerts, to music workshops, awards, and exhibitions, the goal of the seven-day festival is to increase tourism. In fact, the theme for the festival is ‘Music, A Catalyst for Tour-

ism.” Sponsors include the American Embassy, British Council, Gold Coast Fund Management, Kasapreko, the Ghana Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, EIB Networks, and Radio Gold. At a kick-off event in Mount Vernon, New York in October, 2015, then Mayor Ernest Davis welcomed a delegation from Ghana. The City of Mount Vernon and the West African Country –particularly the City of Elmina– have a relationship going back to the 90s when an African Family Day was instituted in the Westchester County enclave. “Tourism can be used to bridge the gap between Africans and Africans in the Diaspora,” said Mayor Davis on that occasion, stressing the need for partnerships such as the one between Ghana and the City of Mount Vernon. Ghana Music Week was organized by Musiga in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Fantasy Entertainment, Showbiz Africa, and other partners. —JNW

Shatte Wale performing at the All-Star Concert

Ghanaian artist Sherrifa Gunu

Shatte Wale performing at the All-Star Concert

L-R: Danny Fennell, American Embassy Public Affairs Officer; Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts; and Bice Osei Kuffour (a/k/a Obour), president of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA)

The Positive Community May 2016

L-R: Akwasi Agyeman, president of the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association and Bice Osei Kuffour (a/k/a Obour) www.thepositivecommunity.com

If Not for Clem Newark Arts Council Honors the Legacy of Dr. Clement A Price

n March 31, 2016 The Newark Arts Council Board of Directors, headed by President Sheila D. McKoy, hosted their annual dinner gala this year honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Clement Alexander Price, founder and leader of the Rutgers Institute on Ethnicity, Culture, and the Modern Experience. Price also

Newark Arts Council Executive Director Jeremy Johnson

served as the historian for the City of Newark. Themed, “If Not for Clem,” it was a wonderful, joyous evening of dinner, dancing, and memories that reflected the spirit of a man who dedicated his professional career to the study and progress of the people of Newark and beyond. On that night, those in attendance were formally introduced to the Newark Arts Council’s new executive director, Jeremy Johnson.

L-R: NAC Executive Director Jeremy Johnson; Gloria Hopkins Buck, co-founder of The Newark Museum Black Film Festival; NAC Gala Honorary Chair and Director Emerita, Newark Museum Mary Sue Sweeney Price; NAC Board President Sheila McKoy; NAC Gala Dinner Co-Chair and Chancellor, Rutgers University-Newark, Dr. Nancy Cantor; and NAC Gala Dinner CoChair, Principal, Crawford Street Partners Tony Gibbons

Rhythm Review

Photos: Karen Waters

Celebrates 30 Years

ozens crowded into Newark’s New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) to celebrate 30 years of Felix Fernandez’s Rhythm Review on WBGO. It was a Rhythm Review Dance Party to celebrate this historic milestone in culture and entertainment.

Singer, songwriter, R&B legend Valarie Ashford (Ashford & Simpson)

L-R: Gwen Molton director of Cultural Affairs, Newark NJ and Rhythm Review host Felix Fernandez

Rhythm Review dance party at NJPAC www.thepositivecommunity.com

May 2016 The Positive Community

Vaughn Harper Celebrates Birthday Milestone

any friends, family, and colleagues came out to celebrate and share their best wishes with radio legend Vaughn Harper for his 70th birthday. Harper is famous for his smooth, deep, velvety voice heard for decades on his Quiet Storm nighttime program on WBLS radio. The format has been duplicated throughout R&B radio stations across the country. Among those who attended were his former colleagues at WBLS: Lenny Green, Shaila Scott, Debbie Jackson, Jim Weiner, Clay Berry, Janie Washington, C. Mal Woolfolk, and Anthony Richards; as well as R&B legends Millie Jackson, Melba Moore, Ted (Wizard) Mills, and Alyson Williams.---AAC Photos: Bruce Moore

L-R: C. Mal Woolfolk with Vaughn Harper

L-R: Harold Dow of the Dow twins and Mack Rice, a close family friend

L-R: Jim Weiner, WBLS engineer; Vaughan Harper; and R&B legend Millie Jackson

L-R: Shaila Scott and Lenny Green, WBLS radio personalities

G. Keith Alexander, Vaughn and Alyson Williams

L-R: Debbie Jackson and legendary songstress Melba Moore with Vaughan Harper

The Positive Community May 2016

Vaughn Harper with wife Sandra Ross-Harper

Clay Berry and Janie Washington www.thepositivecommunity.com

BY R.L. WITTER GUEST COLUMNIST

Goodnight, Sweet Prince And Flights of Angels Sing Thee to Thy Rest

t was an eerily familiar sense of shock, disbelief, and pain. Another musical icon was taken from us too soon. When Prince Rogers Nelson died on April 21, 2016 the world gasped and cried a collective ocean of tears. To some, my love of Prince’s music seemed like a contradiction to my Christian faith. But I always explained that, while the music was fraught with beats that made people gyrate and lyrics that made many blush, if you looked past that and delved a bit deeper, spirituality and religion abounded. Embedded in even the most profane or explicit Prince songs were religious references and outright prayers. “Controversy,” Prince’s 1981 ode to contradiction, lived up to its premise by including the entire Lord’s Prayer in its lyrics. “Let’s Pretend We’re Married” from 1982’s 1999 crooned, “I’m in love with God, he’s the only way/’Cuz U and I know we gotta’ die someday.” In 1984, Purple Rain contained the song “Let’s Go Crazy,” which not only featured an opening sermon complete with organ music and news of an afterlife, but the proclamation that “He’s coming!” The catchy pop song “I Would Die 4 U” from the same album talked about a “messiah” who would “forgive you by and by” and comforted listeners with “All I really need is to know that you believe. Yeah, I would die for you.” While Prince is arguably most famous for Purple Rain (both the movie and the album), it was only after his magnum opus that he became prolific and his more spirituallyfocused music came to the forefront of his work. In 1985 while “Raspberry Beret” was the infectious pop song of the summer, another song on Around the World in A Day, “The Ladder,” cautioned “Everybody’s looking 4 the ladder/Everybody wants salvation of the soul/The steps U take are no easy road/But the reward is great 4 those who want 2 go.” Sign O’ the Times, released in 1987, contained “The Cross,” a guitar-driven fan favorite during concerts. “Don’t cry, He is coming; don’t die without knowing the Cross,” Prince sings, “Soon all of our problems will be taken by the Cross.” Lovesexy, released in 1988, offered three songs with spiritual messages. “Eye Know” proclaimed, “I know there is a heaven, I know there is a hell . . . when I called His name don’t U know he found me.” “Anna Stesia” made an open plea to God and to fans to love God with, “Save me Jesus, I’ve been a fool/How could I forget that U are the

thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

rule/We’re just a play in Your master plan/Now, my Lord I understand/Love is God, God is love/Girls and boys love God above.” The third song was titled, “I Wish You Heaven.” While Prince’s 1990 film Graffiti Bridge was not nearly the box office smash of its prequel, Purple Rain, the soundtrack produced the hits “Thieves in the Temple” and “Round and Round.” Deeper cuts “Elephants and Flowers” and “Still Would Stand All Time” celebrated God. The former appeals to the listener, “Love the one who is love/the one who gives us the power/the one who made everything… /the one who will listen when all others will not/there will be peace 4 those who love god a lot.” The latter chimes in describing God’s unconditional and everlasting love, “This love that I’ve been waiting for/a Love solid as rock/A Love that reaffirms that we R not alone/A Love so bright inside U it glows.” Prince was still recording songs titled “Gett Off,” “Cream,” and “Horny Pony”; but he continued to include spiritual songs. In 1991, Diamonds & Pearls included a song called “Thunder” —“All thru the night/Promise to see Jesus in the morning light/Take my hand, it’ll be alright/C’mon save your soul tonight.” “Into the Light” from 1996’s Chaos & Disorder told us “And in a light too bright to behold/Is a truth more shiny than gold/And as sure as this candle burns/Every soul must return/Into the light, into the light/From out of the light there comes a story.../Open your mind, and feel the glory.” Over the next 20 years, Prince’s music became less overtly sexual, focused more on musicianship, and celebrated God, Jesus, marriage, and the Bible. With songs titled “Beautiful, Loved & Blessed,” “The Word,” and “Get on the Boat,” many of Prince’s songs could have and probably should have been played on Christian and Gospel radio stations. I would hazard a guess that through his music, Prince led several souls to seek God. As I say “Goodnight, Sweet Prince,” I take comfort in the music he left the world and the message he shared. “If U ask God 2 love U longer/Every breath U take will make U stronger/ Keepin’ U happy and proud 2 call His name (Go on and say it)/ Jesus (Jesus)/ Let’s go down 2 the holy river/If we drown then we’ll be delivered/ If we don’t then we’ll never see the light.” The Positive 2016 The May2016 May Positive Community Community 67 67

IT ALL HAPPENS HERE! Musiq Soulchild, Lalah Hathaway & Raheem DeVaughn • 6/10

Richard Nader’s 27th

Annual Summer Doo Wop Concert Featuring Charlie Thomas’ Drifters, Lou Christie, “Duke of Earl” Gene Chandler, The Duprees, Shirley Alston Reeves (The Shirelles), The Coasters, Jay Siegel’s Tokens, Tommy Mara and The Crests and special guest Ladd Vance.

Invincible: A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson The world’s number 1 all new tribute show to Michael Jackson honors this phenomenal talent from the Jackson 5 to solo artist.

Bill Charlap

Earthquake’s Father’s Day Celebration

Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias

A rare solo recital with one of the world’s premier jazz pianists.

Earthquake hosts a hilarious night of comedy, with performances by Lavell Crawford, Michael Blackson, Deon Cole and Pat Brown!

Everyone’s favorite “Fluffy” comedian returns with a highoctane show that mixes parody with personal experiences.

Sunday, June 19 at 6pm

Thursday, July 7 at 8pm Friday, July 8 at 8pm

Solo Piano

Saturday, June 18 at 7:30pm

Saturday, June 11 at 8pm

Sunday, June 5 at 3pm

Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths & Luciano Reggae royalty! Three of Jamaica’s most influential singers (“Electric Boogie Song,” “See You Again” and more) team up in concert.

Boyz II Men & En Vogue

Chris Tucker Live

Bring It Live!

Savion Glover’s Chronology of a HooFer

Red-hot R&B from the hitmakers of “I’ll Make Love to You,” “End of the Road,” “Don’t Let Go (Love)” and “Free Your Mind”

Hilarious stand-up from the comedian-actor of the “Rush Hour” movies, “Silver Linings Playbook” and “Money Talks”

Fans get a chance to be part of the action when Miss D and her Dancing Dolls perform never-seen routines live on stage!

Sunday, July 24 at 7pm

Saturday, July 30 at 8pm

Thursday, August 4 at 8pm

The tap master of Broadway’s “Shuffle Along” and Tony Award winner chronicles his performance history through photos, words, stories and rhythmic percussion.

Saturday, July 9 at 8pm

For tickets and a full schedule visit njpac.org or call 1.888.GO.NJPAC • Groups: 973.297.5804 NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • One Center Street, Newark, NJ World Music Series sponsored by American Express

Friday, September 23 at 8pm

#NJPAC

Many Clement Prices All At Once, 2016

L-R: Nell Painter, Opera Singer Kevin Maynor, WBGO’s Dorthann Kirk, and Gail Maynor

Nell Painter Art on Exhibit at WBGO Gallery

orks by Nell Painter (the painter formerly known as the historian) are on exhibit in the art gallery at jazz radio station WBGO in Newark. The exhibit opened with a reception on April 21st, 2016 and will be on display through June 30. Notable for her works on southern history of the nineteenth century,she is the author of The History of White People; Sojourner Truth, A Life, A Symbol; and Creating Black Americans. The Edwards Professor of American History, Emerita, Princeton University, Painter lives and works in Newark, New Jersey, where she is a member of Bethany Baptist Church

Artist’s Comment on Many Clement Prices All At Once, 2016 I made this collage especially to commemorate the memory of my dear friend, the deeply missed, highly esteemed historian and leading Newark citizen, Clement A. Price. Clement means so much to so many, but for my husband and I remain personally grateful to him for having guided our move from Princeton to Newark in 2002 and introduced us to Newark people and institutions that enrich our lives in our adopted city. This collage, inspired by Andy Warhol’s celebrity portraits, combines Clement Price’s intellect, celebrity, and the manifold ways he made all our lives more meaningful. Photos: Risasi Dais

Artist Nell Painter with her father, Frank Irvin www.thepositivecommunity.com

Nell Painter with her Motherwell in Dedham work, part of a series of paintings inspired by the work of the late Robert Motherwell May 2016 The Positive Community

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A TRIBUTE TO A BROOKLYN GIANT Horace D. Williams

PHOTO AND TEXT BY LEM PETERKIN

17, 2016, at Giando’s On the Water, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, family, friends, and colleagues — educators, elected officials, community and business leaders— came from across the country to honor his life with The Horace D. Williams Scholarship Fund at City University’s Medgar Evers College. orace D. Williams was not In his remarks, Medgar Evers only a giant in stature, but College President Dr. Rudolph Crew he had a big heart for the pointed out the unique needs of Brooklyn community and especially Medgar Evers students and welits young people. Horace D. Wilcomed the support scholarships liams passed away on September 25, 2015 in Bennettsville, SC. On March provide. Elected officials who had worked with Williams on many of the community projects he envisioned spoke of his unwavering commitment to educational services for the young people of Central Brooklyn. Congresswoman Yvette Clark, joined by Public Advocate L-R: New York City Public Advocate Letitia James; Philppa Kateron Letitia James, (committee); Bessie Edwards (committee); Dr. Thomas Schutte, Pratt former NYS AsInstitute; Tyler Babb, Bedford Academy High School student; Dr. Rudy Crew, president, Medgar Evers College; Dr. Linda Patterson (commitsemblyman Rogtee); US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke; Emerson Atkins; Ekoyo Atkins; er Green and Bernell Grier (committee); and Honorable Una Clarke, honorary host.

Williams, well known in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn founded the Youth and Adult Services Coalition, a non-profit community based organization housed on the campus of Pratt Institute.

L-R: Dana Williams (daughter), Sharon Williams Waverly (sister), and Horace Douglass Williams (son) www.thepositivecommunity.com

CUNY Board Member Una Clarke expressed their ongoing support of the scholarship fund agreeing that it was a perfect way to honor the life and legacy of Horace D. Williams. Williams, well known in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn founded the Youth and Adult Services Coalition, a non-profit community based organization housed on the campus of Pratt Institute. For more than 25 years, under the skillful leadership of Chairman Williams, funding and development of 17 outreach and summer jobs programs benefitted thousands of Brooklyn youth and young adults. A graduate of Pratt Institute and then an administrator for 25 years, Williams was a link between the community and Pratt Institute. He served as Pratt Institute’s first African American vice president and held various titles over the years including vice president of Government and Community Development; vice president of Institutional Advancement, and vice president of Special Projects.

Honorable Yvette Clarke honorary host (2nd Left), with committee members: L-R: Dr. Linda Patterson, Philippa Kateron, and William Howard May 2016 The Positive Community

Newark Symphony Hall and The North New Jersey Chapter of the GMWA presents in conjunction with the Newark Symphony Hall Ministers Council

Gospel Music Month Celebration featuring Gospel Music legend

Dr. Margaret Pleasant Douroux

only

$10

"He Would Not Come Down From The Cross","Give Me A Clean Heart", "If It Had Not Been For The Lord On My Side" and "If God is Dead" (He Lives, He Lives, He Lives)

Saturday, June 4, 2016 Newark Symphony Hall Curated by Dr. Albert Lewis founder of Gospel Music Month Terrace Ballroom 1020 Broad Street also appearing Linell Andrews & One Voice, Newark, New Jersey Mietta Stancil-Farrar & Tahillah, Garden State

Community Chorale and Professor Ronnie Felder & The Voices of Inspiration

7pm-9pm

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L-R: Pastor Mary Searight and First Lady Gayle Taylor

First Lady Gayle Taylor

Guest speaker Pastor Mary Searight

Birthday Celebration for Community Baptist First Lady Pastor Mary Searight delivers the birthday sermon

xcitement was in the air as congregants of Community Baptist Church of Englewood arrived for the 8 o’clock service on Sunday morning, April 24, 2016. This was a special Sunday morning. The sun shone bright in the morning sky and a warm breeze heralded a beautiful day to celebrate with

PHOTOS AND TEXT BY KAREN WATERS

Her powerful and joyful delivery of God’s word will surely remain with all who heard it whether in person or the CBC e-Church Livestream connection (www.cbcofe.org).

LAW OFFICE OF CLARENCE BARRY-AUSTIN, P.C. 76 South Orange Avenue Suite 207 South Orange, NJ 07079 TELEPHONE: 973-763-8500 FAX: 973-763-4800 MEMBER OF NJ AND NY BARS • CERTIFIED CIVIL TRIAL ATTORNEY

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First Lady Gayle Taylor greeting a member of the congregation.

First Lady Gayle Taylor on the occasion of her 50th birthday. ( Who would have known?) And no one was disappointed. Guest speaker Pastor Mary Searight of Abundant Life Family Worship Church in New Brunswick, NJ preached a soulful sermon, “Don’t Ever Regret Your Story,” perhaps just for the First Lady, but certainly relevant to everyone. Her powerful and joyful delivery of God’s word will surely remain with all who heard it whether in person or the CBC e-Church Livestream connection (www.cbcofe.org). May 2016 The Positive Community

Photos: Lem Peterkin Risasi Dais

NYC First Lady Chirlane McCray announcing her THRIVE NYC initiative

Keisha Sutton-James, NAN Convention Chair

Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network

Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton

Mayor Bill de Blasio cuts the ribbon to open the National Action Network conference.

L-R: Marc H. Morial, CEO National Urban League, and Michael Gardner, president, One Hundred Black Men of New York

Honoree Michelle Gadsen-Williams, co-founder and CEO, Ceiling Breakers LLC

National Action Network

Commemoration of 25 Years of History at Annual Convention L-R: Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, NAN board chair with Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies

he National Action Network (NAN) hosted its annual national convention in New York City, April 13th-16th at the Sheraton Hotel. Founded in 1991 by Reverend Al Sharpton, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to promote a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency, and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, nationality, or gender. The convention brings together influential national leaders in civil rights, government, labor, the church, business, politics, media, and activism to assess where we are today. Some of the topics addressed at the convention included civil rights, education, gun-violence, immigration, jobs, health-care, and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights. Speakers included Democratic presidential candidates, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, members of the Obama cabinet, and leaders from a wide range of areas.

Students from Benjamin Banneker Academic High School

The Positive Community May 2016

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May 2016 The Positive Community

MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

The Rocky Road to Doing it Right “If you love Me, you will keep my commandments.” –John 14:15 (New American Standard Bible)

ife works best when we follow God’s instructions. Often, however, His commandments are counterintuitive to typical human thinking. Our “common sense” tells us we should handle certain situations in certain ways, even if God’s Biblically recorded law instructs us to handle them differently. I think the relationship between God and adult humans resembles the relationship between parents and toddlers. Parents, knowing that the stove can burn their little boy, warn him not to touch it. But the boy—feeling unfairly restricted by his parents’ rules—may touch the stove anyway and get burned. We adults, to avoid getting burned figuratively, should obey God’s instructions. “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” −Matthew 7:12 (NASB) This quote is “The Golden Rule” as stated by Jesus Christ in the Sermon on the Mount. I think our most natural inclination is to treat people in ways that we think would enable us to get what we want from them. But we should purposely direct our minds toward following God’s “golden rule,” even if it doesn’t come naturally. “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” −Matthew 6:12 (New International Version) “Then Peter came and said to Him, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven . . .’”−Matthew 18:21-22 (NASB)

Wow. Forgiveness is hard, especially when those who perpetrate against us keep perpetrating, adding new insults to our oozing injuries. But, again, we should do it God’s way on purpose, not because it comes naturally, but because God instructs it. Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way that you judge others, you will be judged, and with the same measure that you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me

76 The The Positive 2016 76 Positive Community CommunityMay May 2016

take the speck out of your eye’, when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye…” −Matthew 7:1-5 (New International Version)

If these rules apply to overall human interaction, they must apply to marriages as well. I actually suspect that, because we have closer relationships with our spouses than with people in general, there is a greater requirement to treat them as we want to be treated, to forgive them, and to not judge them. “‘For I hate divorce,’ says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘and him who covers his garment with wrong,’ says the LORD of Hosts.”—Malachi 2:16 (NASB) I recognize that the preceding quote from the Book of Malachi is dealing with divorce somewhat figuratively. Nonetheless, I strongly suspect that if we purposely treat our spouses as God instructs, divorce is less likely than if we govern ourselves solely by feelings of the moment. Just like the kids should listen and obey when their parents tell them not to touch the hot stove, we should read and obey the instructions that God gives us, as recorded in the Bible. And just as our instructions to our kids are for their own good, God’s instructions are good for us. Jesus said: “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Whoever annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.−Matthew 5:17 (NASB) thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Thy Good and Faithful Servant Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon

he was a remarkable woman of God, unusual educator, woman of compassion, love and forgiveness. She was a virtuous woman, an honorable woman, loving mother to her children and all children. She was the love of my life.” These are the words of Bishop William T. Cahoon about his wife of 47 years, 10 months and 5 days, Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon. On February 18, 2016, Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon was called

BY DIANNE KEEL ATKINS

to glory and in response to the remarkable life of this precious child of God, the outpouring of love was extraordinary. Family, friends, bishops from across the country, jurisdictional supervisors, international Church of God in Christ officers, pastors, other leaders and members of other faiths, educators, health care providers, social service organizations, municipal/government officials—more than

800— crowded into Wells Cathedral in Newark, NJ for her homegoing celebration. Three hundred who could not get into the church joined others viewing the service, which streamed live on the internet and garnered over 33,000 views.

•LOVING MOTHER, from their marital bliss, four children: Victoir, Pequita, Kara, Kori and 11 grandchildren continue her legacy. All four are high achievers, leading productive Christian lives and emulating the behavior of their mother and father, giving back to the community and church. Lady Cahoon devoted her time, energy, and dedication to motherhood as an exceptional calling. •UNUSUAL EDUCATOR, she treated education as an extension of motherhood. That translated into mentorship, effective teaching practices, creative curriculum development, role model, supervisor, assistant principal, and principal. She had fundraisers to support field trips so children from all backgrounds could be exposed to Disney World, Niagara Falls, etc. Her life impacted hundreds of children, parents, and staff over a 42-year career in the East Orange, New Jersey Public School system. •COMPASSIONATE, VIRTUOUS, AND HONORABLE WOMAN OF GOD, she wove a pattern of inspiration, strength, and loving perseverance to people from all walks of life and championed their causes when she felt she could serve as their advocate. Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon, gave her life to Christ at the age of 13, and never deterred from her Christian walk in dedication and devotion to her husband. A giving, highly perceptive, and forgiving woman of God, she helped others recognize potential they did not recognize in themselves, always giving a word of encouragement, inserting humor at the most appropriate times, always protecting right and alleviating wrong. She saw people not as they were, but as the hidden potentials not yet realized. She was a 16-year liver transplant survivor and her courage, perseverance, and faith in God became an inspiration to

The Positive Community May 2016

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many on local, state, and national levels. On February 27, at Wells Cathedral, mourners echoed similar stories regarding the attributes of Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon from the 35 year-old father who remembers attending school when she was his teacher and the impact of her teaching was passed on to his own children; her personal physician who stated that she changed her life; the coach from Newark who said because of this remarkable, virtuous, compassionate woman, his life would never be the same; to the jurisdictional bishops, nationally, who use her as an example of courage and inspiration. The

Saints of God will immediately confess that her love for the success of all people will be one of the greatest attributes of her legacy. Her children will pass on each one of these attributes to their own children. She leaves a spirit -filled legacy to her family, the churches, and jurisdiction she so lovingly supported as well as her service in the field of education and services to the community at-large. Lady R. Carolyn Cahoon will never be forgotten. The Lord has befittingly bestowed upon her no greater reward than these words: “Welcome to your promotion into heaven’s gates, thy good and faithful servant.” www.thepositivecommunity.com May 2016 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com May 2016

™

Vol. 16, No. 5

The Last Word BY R.L. WITTER

“Charlie Parker”

THE GIFT OF A MOTHER

Publisher Adrian A. Council, Sr. Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells Associate Editor R. L. Witter Sales Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR Marc Williams Contributing Writers Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi g.r. mattox Patricia Baldwin Rev. Theresa Nance Glenda Cadogan Helene Fox Rev. Dr. Joanne Noel Photographers Bob Gore Wali A. Muhammad Seitu Oronde Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr. Darryl Hall Vincent Bryant Hubert Williams Brian Branch Price Karen Waters Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Peter Gillo The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: news@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM, its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

78The The Positive Positive Community 2016 78 CommunityMay May 2016

t’s May and we celebrate both Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. Few people seem to know that Memorial Day, originally called “Decoration Day,” was, in fact, begun on May 1st, 1865 by a group of former slaves in Charleston, SC. To pay homage to more than 250 Union soldiers who had given their lives in the Civil War and were buried in a mass grave, the former slaves, over a period of two weeks, gave the soldiers proper burials to thank them for their sacrifice. Afterward, they honored them further with a parade. Unlike the 4th of July, Memorial Day is a day of true solemnity and significance for us as African Americans. So this year when you fire up your grill or hit the beach for some fun and sun, take a moment to remember those who came before you. Because of them, today we are and we can. The more you know… As for Mother’s Day, what can I say? We should be honoring our mothers and fathers every day, but I love the opportunity to do something special for my mom, or “Miss America” as we call her. Due to distance, time constraints, and finances, I don’t always get to spend Mother’s Day with Miss America. It’s difficult as I miss her daily, but definitely extra on the second Sunday in May. This year I didn’t get to see Miss America on her special day, but I was blessed with the gift of having her visit for Easter. No matter how old I get or how grown I think I am, I sometimes find myself uttering the words, “I want my mommy.” So it was a real treat for my husband and me to spend several days appreciating the company of the beautiful, graceful, brilliant, and incredibly funny Miss America in our home.

We fussed over her and Hubby cooked. We tried to make sure we had wine and desserts she might enjoy, as well as fresh flowers in her room. But as I reflect on her visit, she unknowingly gave me a fantastic gift while she was here. I work from home, so most days you’ll find me holed up in my home office. While I’m fortunate to have a home office, a coat of paint, a couch, and a new desk chair would be quite a blessing. Suffice to say that Miss America would not have enjoyed herself spending the days I worked during her visit in the office with me. So because she was here, I worked from my kitchen table. While at the table, I opened the patio door to enjoy the breeze and the view daily. One of the many loves I share with my mom is music, so we played jazz and let it waft out onto the patio and into the backyard. The day after Easter, a little hummingbird perched itself on our patio lights and actually swung back and forth to the music! We named him “Charlie Parker” (appropriate for a bird who swings to jazz, right?) and every single day since March 27th, I’ve opened the patio door and Charlie has come to keep me company and swing for a while. One day when I hadn’t opened the door, he fluttered in front of the door until I did. I guess he really likes the music. I look forward to seeing my little friend each morning and thinking of my mom. We now have a hummingbird feeder on the patio because Miss America taught me to be a good hostess. thepositivecommunity.com www.thepositivecommunity.com

Please join the

New Jersey Legacy Committee for a FREE Statewide Celebration In Honor of

Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

Mayor J. Christian Bollwage

TEENTH 20 E N

Congressman Donald M. Payne Jr.

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Mayor Derek Armstead

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Speaker Emeritus Sheila Y. Oliver

Councilwoman Patricia Perkins Auguste

Come experience the voyage from Slavery to Presidency aboard the

“Spirit of Freedom”

Senator Ron Rice

Councilman William Gallman Jr.

Come Meet the Descendants of

Harriet Tubman

Come Ride with the

Federation of Black Cowboys

Senator Raymond J. Lesniak

Free Dinner • Music

Councilman David Brown

Sunday, June 19, 2016 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm Assemblyman Gerald B. Green

Elizabeth Waterfront Pier and Marina Broadway and East Jersey Streets Elizabeth, New Jersey

Councilwoman Mildred Crump

ALL ARE WELCOME For additional information about these events you may contact any committee member or Mrs. Kim Nesbitt Good at 908-352-7078

Assemblyman Jamel Holley

Freeholder Vernell V. Wright

Mayor Christine Dansereau

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Mayor Samson D. Steinman

Mayor Angela R. Garretson

Mrs. Kim Nesbitt Good

Presiding Elder Larry E. Dixon

Mr. Ron Richardson

May 2016 The Positive Community

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