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P OINT OF V IEW www.afampointofview.com Our Community News Magazine october 1, 2014 DR. WILLIAM DAVILA, “DR. PAPI”: DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS – UMASS AT SPRINGFIELD By Frederick A. Hurst called, absorbed the full benefit (as did 688 Boston Road his siblings) of the standards set by a mother who placed education at the 2014-15 BRINGS SUCCESS forefront of her parenting. AND CHALLENGES It wasn’t easy raising a family by herself in the Liberty Heights and North “Other exciting news from the state this End neighborhoods with limited means fall includes their designation of Brunton but Will’s mother, a semi-retired Elementary as a Level 1 school and Human Services worker, met the chal- Zanetti as a Commendation School for its lenge as demonstrated by Will’s success significant and sustained turnaround and the success of all of her kids. Her achievements.” approach to raising children is a famil- By Superintendent Daniel J. Warwick – 6 iar model that many of us know well. She held high expectations for her kids HCS HEAD START IS and instilled standards in them that TURNING 50 made their consciousness of higher ed- ucation as normal as a good night’s “The story behind the logo is so important itting down with Dr. William An- ence than an interview. A Springfield sleep. to the mission and is a great piece of the thony Davila, the new Director native who was raised along with his A product of Springfield public Head Start story that powerfully speaks to Sof UMass Center at Springfield two siblings by his mother in an in- schools, Will graduated from the High the overarching goal of the program.” (UMass Center) was more an experi- come-challenged home, Will, as he is continues to page 5 By Nicole Blais – 7 DON’T LET THE MOMMY, MAKE ME CASINO QUESTION HEALTHY VOTE “The ability to provide a baby with a FOOL YOU! healthy start in life is precious.” NOVEMBER 4TH By Dr. Anika C. Thrower & Danielle Jurich – 10 WE ARE FERGUSON, Our Choices in Contested Races VOTE MISSOURI “The stories of unarmed black men being Governor: See article on page 26 “NO” killed across the nation make one thing Attorney General: Maura Healey painfully clear: The killing of Black men in incidents that begin as investigatory po- Secretary of State: William Galvin on Question 3! lice stops are anything but unusual in Treasurer: Deborah (Deb) Goldberg Vote “NO” on the casino America.” Auditor: Suzanne Bump question if you want By Bishop Talbert W. Swan II – 13 First District Representative: Springfield to have the FOR GOVERNOR: MAY Richard E. Neal MGM Grand Casino. THE BEST WO(MAN) WIN Senator 1st Hampden & Hampshire: “My big problem, though, is that my edi- If you vote “YES,” you tor won’t bend to my wishes. Notice I did- Eric Lesser will be voting against n’t say “bend to my will.” We are both State Representative 9th Hampden: having a casino in strong-willed so if I make it a clash of Jose Tosado Springfield or anywhere wills, divorce might follow.” By Frederick A. Hurst – 26 Register of Probate: Gale Candaras else in Massachusetts. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 2
african american point of view page two october 1, 2014 SPRINGFIELD DAY AT THE BIG E
Springfield is well represented by Tony Pettaway and two of its finest, along with Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, School Committee member Rosa Perez, City Councilor Justin Hurst, State Representative Angelo Puppolo, Mayor Domenic Sarno, School Committee Vice Chair Denise Hurst and City Councilor Orlando Ramos. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 3
african american point of view page three october 1, 2014 CON
COVER CON AN AFRICAN AMERICAN POINT OF VIEW DR. WILLIAM DAVILA, “DR. PAPI” AN AFRICAN AMERICAN Point of View 688 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119 VOTE “NO” ON QUESTION 3! Phone: (413) 796-1500 l Fax: (413) 796-6100 E-mail: [email protected] l Website: www.afampointofview.com BUSINESS & FINANCE Financial Cents ...... 9 Point of View is a monthly news journal with an African American orientation. It is distributed Financially Yours...... 9 free to select locations in Hampden and Hampshire counties and in Connecticut. Letters, CLASSIFIED ...... 36 articles and comments appearing in the newspaper reflect the opinions of the contributors and do not constitute an endorsement by POV and are subject to editing. POV assumes no COMMUNITY responsibility for photos, articles, letters, press releases or unsolicited materials. Decisions Call to the Cause ...... 13 as to the editing and publishing of material are based on space availability and the discretion Community Focus...... 18-19, 23, 38 of the publisher and editor. Distribution locations are listed on our web site. POV assumes Community Information...... 15 no financial responsibility for failure to publish an advertisement, incorrect placement or ty- Community Information-CT ...... 24-25 pographical errors in its publication. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their Community Perspectives...... 13 advertising and claims and offers contained within their advertising. POV reserves the right Congratulations Corner...... 22 to refuse advertising for any reason. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without Events...... 37 written permission. Latin@ Groove ...... 17 PUBLISHER: Frederick A. Hurst EDITOR: Marjorie J. Hurst Leadership Pioneer Valley...... 14 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: THIS ISSUE Political Happenings-New Haven ...... 25 Artist in Residence Renée Flowers Life’s Challenges Dr. Sweets S. Wilson Black Sports International Melvin Wm. Bell, Editor Mama’s Boyz Jerry Craft EDITORIAL Call to the Cause Kirk Smith Op Ed Deb Goldberg AF-AM Newsbits...... 4 TENTS Children’s Book Corner Terri Schlichenmeyer Mike Heffernan From the Publisher’s Desk ...... 26 TENTS Community Info-CT Geneva Williams Rebecca Willoughby Community Perspectives Bishop Talbert W. Swan, II Parents & Community Patricia Spradley Letters to the Publisher ...... 26 Early Education & Care Nicole Blais Pen & Ink Brenda’s Child Op Ed ...... 27, 33 Education & Hope Gianna Allentuck Juanita Torrence-Thompson EDUCATION Features Emurriel Holloway Political Happenings Arlene Davis-Rudd Dale Parker Reading to Succeed Sally Fuller Early Education & Care...... 7 Mayor Domenic J. Sarno Religious Point of View Rev. Dr. Atu White, Editor Education & Hope ...... 7 Financial Cents Walter D. Woodgett School Comm. Happenings Denise M. Hurst Financially Yours Samuel N. Wilson, Jr. The Urban Cook Rhonda Jones From the Superintendent’s Desk ...... 6 From the Supt.’s Desk Daniel J. Warwick Urban Gardening Zaida Govan Parents & Community Engagement...... 8 Health Matters Doris Harris, Editor PRODUCTION Reading to Succeed...... 8 Crystal Senter Brown Artistic/Multimedia Dir. Marie Zanazanian Dr. Anika C. Thrower & Distribution Manager Shawn Merriman School Committee Happenings...... 6 Danielle Jurich Marketing Director Marjorie J. Hurst FEATURES Latin@ Groove Magdalena Gómez Photographer Edward Cohen Remembering Carole Johnson...... 14 Leadership Pioneer Valley Lora Wondolowski, Editor Website Designer Marie Zanazanian Changing Lives through Literature ...... 17 LOCATE OUR ADVERTISERS A True Renaissance Man ...... 28 Letter from Mayor Domenic J. Sarno ...... 38 Alden Baptist Church------28 MBC Realtors------16 FOOD TALK Baystate Medical Center ------11 Mount Calvary Baptist Church------29 Bethel AME Church ------28 Mt. Zion Baptist Church ------29 The Urban Cook...... 32 Big Y Foods, Inc.------12 New Life Calvary Baptist Church ------28 Urban Gardening ...... 32 Branford Hall Career Institute ------3 Progressive Community Baptist Church------29 HEALTH Buckingham Junior High School Reunion ------14 Roberta B. Johnson/Real Living Real Estate------16 Health Matters...... 10-12 Canaan Baptist Church of Christ------29 Shiloh Seventh-Day Adventist Church------29 LIVING Center For Human Development ------23 Solid Rock Community Baptist Church ------29 Life’s Challenges ...... 31 Committee To Elect Deb Goldberg------40 Springfield Dept. of Health & Human Services-----2 & 16 PHOTO GALLERY...... 2, 20-21, 39 Committee To Elect Eric Lesser------2 Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services ------16 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES...... 16 Committee To Elect Mike Heffernan ------22 Springfield Technical Community College ------37 RELIGION Community Baptist Church------29 Springfield Unity Festival------19 Religious Point of View...... 28 Ed Cohen Photography------16 St. John’s Congregational Church ------29 Religious Directory...... 28-29 Family Church------29 Third Baptist Church------29 SPORTS Freedom Credit Union ------9 Trinity United Methodist Church ------29 Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry------15 United In Love Ministry------29 Black Sports International ...... 34-35 Hall & Hall Siding ------14 United States Postal Service ------15 THE ARTS Home Inspections by Marco, Inc.------16 Wesley United Methodist Church ------29 Artist in Residence...... 39 Hurst & Hurst, P.C. ------16 Westfield State University ------23 Children’s Book Corner ...... 30 Jesus Christ Enlightened Christian Bible Seminary------29 WTCC FM 90.7 ------37 Mama’s Boyz ...... 37 Lewin’s Boutique ------25 X-Bankers Check Cashing------15 Pen & Ink ...... 30-31 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 4
african american point of view page four october 1, 2014 Puerto Ricans are Americans too” tral. A party that does not forthrightly that I understood what it was. As his address the single largest source of AF-AM NEWS bits article so clearly messaged, he is both division in American history and By Frederick A. Hurst Puerto Rican and American and a American life – now dramatized in OTHERS’ BITS after the fact. Under the Constitution, Puerto Rican in America. He also has the tear gas haze of Ferguson, Mo. – A REASONABLE MAN: “If two such ex post facto and vague “laws” Anglo features. And because he does- is not morally or intellectually seri- people agree on everything, one of would not be allowed. Because the n’t trumpet his Puerto Rican heritage, ous.” (Washington Post’s Michael them is not thinking.” NFL is not government, its officials he has been privy to a side of the Gerson as reprinted in The Republi- can be scared into whatever actions American racial and ethnic experi- can, August 20 2014) A POLITICIAN: “Sincerity is the news-driven hysteria demands so ence that is unadulterated, undeniable everything. And once you learn to we end up with the harshest punish- and unfiltered as White Americans FACTS SELDOM fake it, everything else comes easy.” ments that even some of the alleged spill their true thoughts on the table SHARED domestic violence victims, for good before him. I truly don’t know which irst term President Abraham Lin- AN INDEPENDENT: “What Re- reason, oppose. Let’s get the rules is worse, having White folks tell you Fcoln, a Republican, was expected publicans do is talk a good game and and the punishments straight and on the bigoted truth because they don’t to lose re-election to General George don’t do anything. What Democrats the books and educate the players of know you are not White or knowing McClellan, the lackluster Civil War do is talk a good game and do the the consequences of their actions and the bigoted truth and having them general whom he had replaced be- same old thing.” apply them going forward. I, for one, hide it from you because they know cause of his reluctance to fight. It was am not comfortable with “mob ac- who you are. Having had a relative on assumed Lincoln would lose. In des- JUSTICE FOR DELANO tion” supplanting the rule of law es- my father’s side who deliberately peration, Lincoln and the Republi- pecially when all the players passed for White to overcome the cans decided to dump the sitting Vice WALKER, JR. subjected to it are Black. limitations of segregation, I now re- President, Hannibal Hamlin of y the time interest and attorney gret not having been curious enough Maine, “a staunch abolitionist, and Bfees are added to the 1.3 million HAVE YOU NOTICED? to probe the effect on him. Ron replaced him with Democrat Andrew dollar jury award against the city and he Affordable Care Act, popu- Chimelis didn’t hide like my relative Johnson, a former slave owner and a police officer Sean Sullivan, who larly called “Obamacare,” is fad- did. He just didn’t trumpet his ethnic- deep-dyed racist…For Lincoln, it most certainly caused Delano Walker, T ing as a Republican election issue. ity like some of us do until his in- was pure political calculation: what Jr.’s death, the city of Springfield and sightful article put down the notion he most urgently needed was support officer Sullivan will owe close to $2 The fundamental cause is that Oba- macare is working. And it is working held by so many Americans that from wavering war Democrats, and million for violating Walker’s civil Puerto Ricans are immigrants, Puerto he banked on Johnson delivering rights and other charges. It doesn’t in Republican strongholds such as Rico is not part of America and enough of their votes to swing the happen often in Western Massachu- Kentucky and Arkansas where Dem- Puerto Ricans are not Americans. All election.” The tide of war turned in setts when the plaintiff is Black and ocratic candidates are touting it and are incorrect. And I genuinely hope Lincoln’s favor and he was re-elected the defendant is a police officer but in Republicans are beginning to shy Chimelis felt some pleasure setting by a large margin but, “five months this case, justice was done. away from demonizing it. What a dif- ference a day makes. others straight. But more precisely, I later Lincoln would be dead – and the now know why I am so attracted to nation would be haunted by his deci- HYSTERIA DOES NOT RON CHIMELIS IS his writings which unabashedly, sion to put Johnson on the ticket. APPEAL TO ME though so subtly, reflect the depth and Abolitionist Hannibal Hamlin would atching this media hysteria PUERTO RICAN diversity of his human experiences. have protected former slaves and Wover Black football players ac- he Republican’s Ron Chimelis is punished those who defied federal cused of domestic violence and child Ta very good writer and I’ve al- AT LEAST WE’RE laws. The nation would have experi- abuse does not appeal to me. It is over ways enjoyed reading his articles TALKING enced a genuine Reconstruction and the top and smacks of a “witch hunt.” which cover an appealing and diverse emocrats are significantly not have had to wait a century for the If every man who ever hit his wife or terrain. But there was always some- “Dmore trusted on a variety of Civil Rights Movement….Instead, girl friend or whipped his kid were to thing in his writing that puzzled me middle-class issues. But the public President Johnson pushed forward lose his job, the unemployment rate until I read his article, “Don’t forget, critique of the GOP is not merely: against the will of Congress the rapid would soar and many families would Puerto Ricans are Americans too,” in “They don’t care enough about the restoration of Southern states toward suffer. Certainly I don’t condone such which he revealed that he is Puerto middle class.” It is rather: They don’t their prewar status, often with ex- behavior and I support laws and rules Rican. (August 29, 2014) A light care enough about the whole.” The Confederates still in control of the that punish it. The law in the football went off in my head. It was his sensi- Republican task is not merely to shift levers of power. He also tolerated cases seems to be working pretty well tivity range that puzzled me. Where an impression of interest-group alle- horrific reprisals against blacks who but the NFL rules, which are not did it come from? Whether he was giance away from big business and attempted to exercise their newly working, were undefined, if not non- writing on the opinion page or the toward suburban families (though won freedoms.” (Read the full article existent, until the recent media storm sports page, something in his writing this would be an improvement). It is by author Fergus Bordewich writing compelled the NFL to action. Now, came through to me that gave the to demonstrate that conservative ide- for The Wall Street Journal, August the rules are far more slapstick than message that “this man is something ology is applicable to the common 30, 2014) uniform and are being made applica- more than he appears to be.” And it good….In this effort, outreach to ble to these young Black athletes was only after I read “Don’t forget, African-Americans is actually cen- continues to page 26 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 5
african american point of view page five october 1, 2014 Dr. William Davila, “Dr. Papi” STCC and HCC Launch Classes continued from page 1 School of Commerce in 1991. He attended Downtown at the University of Massachusetts from where he earned his Bachelor’s of Arts in UMass Center 1996. At the time he graduated, he could not have guessed that he would return to SPRINGFIELD, MASS.—Spring- UMass almost two decades later as head of field Technical Community College its Springfield campus. But he took more (STCC) and Holyoke Community Col- away from UMass than a degree. UMass is lege (HCC) are collaborating with the where he met his wife, Jenny. They were University of Massachusetts (UMASS) married in August of 1997 and just cele- President’s office to provide workforce brated their 17th anniversary. training classes at the new UMass Will kept moving. He attended Springfield Center at Tower Square. Boston College where, in 1998, he earned Through a partnership between his Masters of Social Work after which he STCC, HCC, and the Massachusetts tested his metal in the employment arena. Department of Elementary and Second- He worked in a multitude of professional ary Education, 32 students commenced jobs that kept him in contact with people, exposed him to whatever it might be and from wherever. He recalls how adult basic education and workforce budgets and grant writing, involved him in diversity, training meaningful his graduation ceremony was for his kids who readiness classes. Annually the partner- and educational programs and that provided him with the watched with awe as he marched down the aisle in full aca- ship serves over 300 students. management level experience and community involvement demic regalia to receive his degree. Thereafter, his enthralled “Collaboration is the key to creat- that will be so important to his success at UMass Center. daughter Arianna nicknamed him “Dr. Papi.” What was cer- ing a qualified workforce that will Will started with a one year stint as Program Director at tain by then is that when UMass came knocking at his door, drive the region’s economic prosper- Projecto Esperanza of Merrimack Valley Catholic Charities Dr. Papi was uniquely prepared, both personally and profes- ity,” said STCC President Dr. Ira H. after which he joined Lesley University as Assistant Director sionally, to take the helm of the new UMass at Springfield Rubenzahl. “It is essential that as a re- of Graduate Admissions where he gained his first experience campus at Tower Square on Main Street in downtown Spring- gion we continue to scale up programs with college recruitment. And then on to Boston University field that opened for business in August 2014. like our basic education and workforce as Coordinator of Personnel & Academic Support Programs But Will was not certain he was interested in the posi- readiness to provide an access point for where he provided personal and academic support programs tion. He was successful and content at Gandara Center. But those in need of an opportunity to enter for undergraduate students and performed a variety of other the more he thought about it, the more the idea appealed to a pathway to employment.” duties. And, after two years, he moved on to the Devereux him. He had the education, skills and experience. He was STCC Director of Adult Basic Ed- Foundation in 2002 as Metro Boston Regional Manager. Puerto Rican and bilingual. And he had always been con- ucation/English Speakers of Other Lan- I’m sure you get the idea by now. Will comes to his nected to the community as part of his employment and his guages George Kohout said the classes UMass Center job with an uncommon breadth and depth of volunteer work. The diverse demographic that UMass Spring- are geared toward those who need aca- experience. In 2005 he worked as a West Roxbury Program field was targeting was a natural for him. And although Will demic remediation in order to obtain a Manager for the Mentor Network and thereafter from 2006 suspected the competition for the position might be formida- high school diploma and transition to to 2011, as Deputy Executive Director of the Children’s Study ble, the challenge was compelling. He finally submitted his post-secondary education or the work- Home on Sherman Street in Springfield’s Mason Square. And resume and waited a surprisingly short time for an interview force. it was while he was employed as Division Director of Out- that was “different.” “The new campus setting, in the patient Services for the Gandara Center that the advertisement It was “different” in that Will was more interested in the heart of downtown, provides a perfect for the position of UMass Center at Springfield Director came interviewers knowing who he was as a person than trying to location in terms of instructional tech- across his desk. His first instinct was to ignore it. He was convince them that he was the best candidate. He recalled that nology and professional expectations happy and successful at the Gandara Center and not particu- his was a somewhat risky approach but it was real. He be- for these students with goals of mar- larly inclined to leave. But something excited him about the lieved that anybody could prepare a nice resume and defend ketable skills and industry related cer- challenge of competing for the Director position for which it it but not just anybody could present their real self convinc- tificates,” said Kohout. seemed he had been preparing all of his work life and his per- ingly. HCC President William Messner sonal life as well. As I interacted with Will, it became clear early on why said this collaboration continues to In the interim years, Will and his wife, Jenny, had two he was the first choice of the hiring committee. I was so taken build on HCC and STCC’s expertise in kids, 12-year-old son Ajani, who attends Veritas Prep, and by him and his history and his enthusiasm, his deep seated workforce training. eight-year-old Arianna, who attends Brunton Elementary commitment to his new job, that for the first time in an inter- “Providing individuals with basic school. Their expectations of Ajani and Arianna mirror Will’s view, I didn’t take a single note! We talked as though we were education and workforce skills is es- mother’s expectations of her own kids. They will be moving old friends. By the end of our discussion, I not only under- sential in order to secure a job and on from elementary to secondary schools to college and stood why the committee selected “Dr. Papi” for the impor- begin a career,” said Messner. “It also eventually into professional careers, something Will and his tant job of re-introducing UMass to Springfield, I would have lays the foundation for further educa- wife expect and their two kids naturally take for granted. been astounded had they not. tion and career advancement, and con- In 2012, Will earned his Doctorate of Education from Will is a rare catch who understands the importance and tributes to the economic development the University of Hartford. It was sort of like a ribbon around the difficulty of his charge. And as reflected in the diversity of the region.” an already complete package. He was ready for “the call” continues to page 33 continues to page 13 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 6
african american point of view page six october 1, 2014 EDUCATION SCHOOL COMMITTEE HAPPENINGS FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT’S DESK Know Your School 2014-15 Brings Success Committee Members and Challenges By Denise M. Hurst By Daniel J. Warwick, Superintendent School Committee Statement of Springfield Public Schools Denise M. Hurst, Purpose: he 2014-15 school year is well ments in English Vice Chair underway and with it are some Language Arts and Daniel J. Warwick Springfield School s instruments of the Massachu- very exciting developments that math have ex- Committee setts Legislature, local School T are taking place in the district. For ceeded their peers throughout the state. Committees function primarily as [email protected] A starters, we opened a brand new, first- From 2012 to 2014, SPS students’ a legislative body to formulate and adopt (413) 330-1030 of-its-kind school in the district. The Composite Performance Index (CPI), policy, by selecting an executive officer to Springfield Conservatory of the Arts which measures academic progress to- implement policy, and by evaluating the results. They must carry out their functions openly, while seeking comments of the opened with 60 students in grades 6 ward proficiency, has increased by 0.7 public, students and staff in its decision-making processes. and 9, and will expand by 60 students points in English Language Arts The Springfield School Committee consists of the Mayor, who is chairman; per grade. (ELA), 3.1 points in math, and 1.8 two members who are elected at-large; and four members who are elected by ward Students have already begun points in science while the state in- representation. The School Committee operates in accordance with the MGL Ch. 71 music, vocal, drama, dance and visual creases were 0, 0.4 and 1.0 points re- and 41, which delegate its authority. arts classes that are taught by licensed spectively. Springfield School Committee Members Springfield art teachers, artists in resi- Also since 2012, the percentage dence and special consultants. Just as of SPS students who are proficient in importantly, the school’s academics are math has increased by five percentage based on the Common Core standards. points, compared to a one percentage I am also excited about the dis- point increase for the state during the trict’s technology plan, which aims to same time period. And over the last two provide every student with a computer, years, middle schools in Springfield every day in every class by 2016. With have made greater CPI gains in ELA the delivery of hundreds of new com- and math than middle schools puters to schools since doors opened in statewide. Christopher Collins Barbara Gresham Denise M. Hurst, Mayor Domenic J. August, we are already approaching a Despite these gains in middle Sarno, Chair Wards 6 & 7 Wards 4 & 5 Vice Chair, At Large ratio of one computer for every three schools, the progress at that level has students. not been enough. The state recently Recently we received the great designated Duggan, Forest Park and news that Brookings and Brightwood Van Sickle middle Schools as Level 4 elementary schools had exited Level 4 schools. We must look at middle status based on the tremendous im- schools differently and create new op- provements in student MCAS perform- portunities for success. We know there ance over the past several years. is much opportunity for improvement Calvin McFadden, Peter Murphy Rosa Perez Principals Terry Powe and John Doty at our middle schools and throughout At Large Wards 2 & 8 Wards 1 & 3 have been outstanding leaders in that our district and we embrace those op- work and I congratulate them and their portunities. Springfield School Committee Subcommittees 2014 hardworking staffs. And as a commu- As the school year carries on, I Budget & Finance School Safety nity, we should all recognize the great encourage all SPS students, teachers, Christopher Collins - Chair Barbara Gresham, Chair Dr. Calvin McFadden Peter Murphy work of students in those schools and staff, and concerned citizens to stay fo- Peter Murphy Rosa Perez their families. cused and committed. Celebrate our Other exciting news from the state successes as we work diligently to ad- Student, Parent Concerns Buildings & Maintenance this fall includes their designation of dress our challenges. Working together, Christopher Collins – Chair Barbara Gresham – Chair Barbara Gresham Dr. Calvin McFadden Brunton Elementary as a Level 1 we can and we will create lasting and Rosa Perez Rosa Perez school and Zanetti as Commendation significant change for our students’ fu- School for its significant and sustained tures. ■ Curriculum & Programs Technology Denise Hurst - Chair Peter Murphy– Chair turnaround achievements. Barbara Gresham Denise Hurst Also, we recently Peter Murphy Dr. Calvin McFadden learned that for the second year in a row, Springfield Legislative & Contracts Vocational Education Dr. Calvin McFadden – Chair Rosa Perez – Chair Public Schools (SPS) stu- Christopher Collins Barbara Gresham dents’ academic improve- Peter Murphy Denise Hurst POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 7
african american point of view page seven october 1, 2014 EDUCATION EARLY EDUCATION & CARE HCS Head Start is Turning 50 izes upward mobility: By Nicole Blais ● The two squares rep- resent early childhood by suggesting building blocks. Nicole Blais is Director of Community ● The arrangement of the blocks rep- Engagement HCS resents stairs by which this can be Head Start, Inc. accomplished. [email protected] ● The vertical stripes represent the child and parent. ● The arrow pointing upward repre- ctober is Head Start Awareness sents the direction out of poverty Month and HCS Head Start is and on to the future. Oready to celebrate our 50 years ● The colors, red, white, and blue rep- of Opportunity. For the next 31 days resent the United States and the and throughout the 2014-2015 school many opportunities it provides for year, HCS Head Start will celebrate its citizens. and share our history with parents, staff and the communities we serve. This The story behind the logo is so will allow us to take pause and recog- important to the mission and is a great nize the impact the program has had piece of the Head Start story that pow- over the last 50 years. erfully speaks to the overarching goal child’s first and most influential teach- designed the logo and what it repre- As part of the War on Poverty, of the program. President Lyndon B. Johnson intro- ers, Head Start works with families to sents. Peter Masters, the art director at HCS Head Start is also launching duced the Economic Opportunity Act remove barriers to their success and to that time, conceptualized the National the Annual Community Read-a-Loud of 1964 which included programs such deepen their ability to support their Head Start logo in 1965. He decided to program during the month of October. as Job Corps, Urban/Rural Community children. Children who go through use toy building blocks as a metaphor This program gives us the opportunity Action, VISTA, and Project Head Start. Head Start are less likely to need spe- for the development and growth of to invite the community into the class- During this time President Johnson cial education classes or repeat grades children through Head Start. To reflect rooms and read to the children to see stated, “We must open the doors of op- when they’re older, and are far more the fact that Head Start is a national first-hand all of the wonderful work portunity. But we must also equip our likely to graduate high school and help program funded by the federal govern- being done throughout the program. If people to walk through those doors.” their families escape a cycle of poverty. ment, Mr. Masters added an illustration you would like to get involved with HCS Head Start heeded that call and One of the many treasures of of the American flag. He chose red and HCS Head Start or learn more about since 1965 opened classroom doors to Head Start is the beloved blocks that white stripes and an arrow, printed in the program and its history, please give thousands of children and their parents embody the heart and soul of the pro- reverse on a blue background. The us a call at 413-788-6522. We look for- and helped to equip families for suc- gram. Recently, the National Head arrow is the common denominator of ward to turning 50 and celebrating with cess. Recognizing that parents are their Start Association told the story of who all antipoverty programs and symbol- all of you. ■ EDUCATION & HOPE validation of a family member, col- networking and sharing of resources A Somebody league, friend. We express words of among a spectrum of youth, family, and By Gianna Allentuck gratitude. Leave notes of love. Offer community-serving agencies and organ- feeling of support reflected in your eyes, sentiments of praise. izations. Gianna Allentuck is an In a parallel universe, however, In addition to welcoming and im- Adjustment Counselor at the look of joy reflected in the laugh and passioned comments from leaders such Elias Brookings School, smile lines framing your face, and the there are those among us who have Volunteer, Wife and tone of genuinity and appreciation re- never been honored, cherished, or as Sheriff Michael J. Ashe, Mayor Mother. For questions flected in your lilting voice. loved. Never felt special. Who drift in Domenic J. Sarno, Principal Terry Powe, or comments on At Brookings, these are words that and out of others lives and realities feel- and Pastor Calvin McFadden, we were uniting in hope, call we express toward Students, Educators, ing like a nobody. mesmerized by the voices of the youth (703) 930-0243 and each other every morning to empha- Alone. Hopeless. Helpless… participants of Task Force programs. One by one, boys and girls f you are standing next to someone, size that each of us with our unique On Thursday, August 28, 2014, the quirks and characteristics is a some- City of Springfield Mayor’s Citywide Vi- from The Officials Club Boxing pro- turn to him or her and recite these body. Is important. Vital. A beat in the olence Prevention Task Force hosted our gram shared personal stories of triumph Iwords: You are smart. You are spe- 4th Annual Peace First: Community over adversity; turning a life around rhythm of a whole heart. A complete cial. You are somebody. If you are alone, body. A bountiful soul. Leadership Luncheon to highlight the through school and boxing; living recite them to yourself. Even better if Elsewhere in our lives, many of us efforts of the Task Force in preventing healthy productive lives; and learning you have a mirror nearby to capture the practice some form of recognition or and addressing violence; and to promote continues to page 32 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 8
african american point of view page eight october 1, 2014 EDUCATION PARENTS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT READING TO SUCCEED These are just Temporary Turn Our Writing Crisis into a Inconveniences for Writing Revolution By Sally Fuller Permanent Improvements with reading comprehension skills… By Patricia Spradley Sally Fuller heads the Read- ing Success by 4th Grade Research has borne out that there the path and He herds us, like sheep, (RS4G) initiative for the are at least seven foundational skills re- Irene E. & George A. Davis Patricia Spradley is Chief back into His direction and often quired for writing mastery. These in- Administrator for Foundation, to build com- leaves us with few choices. All too munity support and align ef- clude: Parent and often we wait until we’re in trouble and forts for all Springfield’s Community Engagement, children to read proficiently Springfield Public then scramble, hoping someone or on the 3rd grade MCAS. 1. Handwriting. Studies have repeat- Schools something will happen to resolve the www.readby4thgrade.com edly shown handwriting instruction (413) 787-6597 issue. The minister referenced that He and practice to be linked to better will “make it so tight that there is no ecause I love to write, this blog letter perception, reading acquisi- room for us to turn either to the right in the Huffington Post had a tion, word learning, composition ften in life, things happen that or to the left.” Bstrong impact on me. Hence, and writing fluency. we perceive as being incon- We often see these situations as this share! This is Steve Graham’s post 2. Spelling. In addition to mastering venient or even painful. Some- O curses or punishments, and often they and I am giving you a shortened ver- letter formation, students must learn times we have plans for our lives that are. But even His curses are a form of sion, but all in his words. I hope you how letters work together to form get interrupted and can cause us mental His grace. Let me try it this way: When will share these strategies in your inter- words. anxiety. We become angry, sometimes we step on something that’s sharp, we actions with your children at home, in 3. Vocabulary development. A strong act out or blowup, instead of asking sometimes get irritated from the pain the classroom, in the Sunday school vocabulary is critical for both read- Him for help. classroom, in the after-school program. and often don’t think about how that ing comprehension and effective A few weeks ago a visiting pastor According to Graham, “Our na- pain is actually a warning to our body writing. Writers must be able to at our church preached a sermon enti- tion faces a writing crisis. And unless that we have been injured or may be in choose the right words to convey tled “This is just a temporary incon- we fix it, we risk a generation of Amer- a place that is dangerous. And, al- meaning and intention to capture a venience, for a permanent icans ill prepared for work and society.” though we often see these things as in- reader’s interest. improvement.” I slightly modified the He then cites the data: “…on the Na- conveniences, it’s actually His amazing 4. Sentence construction. Effectively title to emphasize that we will actually tional Assessment of Educational grace and love, much like the love that using a variety of sentences to con- have many inconveniences that will af- Progress…a mere 27 percent of 8th- we have for our children. vey meaning and emphasis helps ford us many improvements. and 12th-graders scoring at or above These temporary setbacks are part keep readers engaged and ensures What happens in life is not ran- grade level on the written portion of the of His plan to get our attention. We that the intended audience under- dom and meaningless. Therefore, we 2011 assessment.” have our own plans, expectations, and stands the writer’s message. should recognize that nothing happens Here are his powerful thoughts dreams, but sometimes, they are not 5. Writing process. Multiple studies to us that He is not aware of. He is in- and recommendations. the plans that He has for us. So He have demonstrated the importance terested in every aspect of our lives and “We have transitioned to a knowl- places inconveniences in our path to of explicit instruction in the writing has oversight and complete control. So edge-based economy in which commu- slow us down or turn us around. He process. why not handle setbacks accordingly. nication skills are more important than often sends little tests and things into 6. Writing strategies. Students also In other words, just wait on Him. It’s ever. It’s how we inform, explain, our lives that are inconvenient, to ei- need specific strategies for each only a temporary condition. argue, persuade, and convey actionable ther teach us something, to test us, or stage of the writing process. These When we stray off the path, step- information to others. Therefore, the to guide us in His will. They’re only may include brainstorming, outlin- ping outside our lane, He allows or alarming decline in writing proficiency temporary. ing, goal setting, and self-evalua- sends inconvenient situations to keep constitutes a true crisis. Celebrate this, even though for a tion. us from doing further harm to our- So, if we are in the midst of a writ- little while you may have to experience 7. Genre knowledge. Students must selves. I’ve come to understand this as ing crisis, what’s the solution? some challenges and obstacles. When be able to apply writing skills across a warning that we are treading on dan- It starts with foundational writing we come out on the other side, the per- a variety of genres and to write for gerous ground. It’s similar to how skills — the building blocks of written manent improvements will be amaz- a variety of purposes. many of us exercise our parenting language. As children learn to write, ing! ■ skills. Setting parameters and guide- they develop the knowledge, skills and Instilling these seven foundational lines for our children to follow helps processes necessary for skilled writing: skills requires intentional focus…” Gra- them to understand that boundaries are how to recognize letters and how to ham states, and goes on to describe the necessary. It’s also important for them shape them, how letters go together to need for children to have ample time to to learn that there are consequences for form words, how words are put together practice, to have frequent feedback and choosing to ignore warnings! to form coherent sentences, how to plan a safe, positive environment where they As adults, we are held to these and revise text and how to write for spe- can try out new skills. standards too. Sometimes we veer off cific purposes and audiences. These processes are developed concurrently continues to page 12 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 9
african american point of view page nine october 1, 2014 BUSINESS & FINANCE FINANCIAL “CENTS”
Walter D. Woodgett Become Familiar with These Five Key Areas Gator Financial & Provided by Walter D. Woodgett Insurance Planning derstanding your desired retirement have the opportunity to grow tax- ● Transferring your wealth — 413-455-3765 wwoodgett@ lifestyle, your financial advisor can free, provided withdrawals are used When you’ve worked hard your gatorfinancialins.com help you determine how, and how for higher education. (Withdrawals whole life, you want to be able to much, to save to provide for your in- not used for education are subject to leave a legacy — one that allows come in retirement. income taxes and a 10 percent you to provide financial resources to s an investor, what are your penalty.) the next generation and to those ● Planning for the unexpected — goals? You can probably think charitable organizations you may of quite a few — but over the You can’t see into the future, so ● Living in retirement — Once you A wish to support. So, when it’s time course of your lifetime, your objectives you’ll need to prepare for anything reach retirement, your investment to think about transferring your typically will fall into five key cate- that comes your way. By building an emphasis will shift somewhat, from wealth, you’ll want to consult with gories. And once you’re familiar with emergency fund containing six to 12 accumulating resources to making your financial and legal advisors to these areas, you can start thinking of months’ worth of living expenses, them last. By working with a finan- create an estate plan that’s appropri- what they’ll mean to you in terms of you can possibly avoid dipping into cial advisor, you can develop a with- ate for your needs. And because your financial and investment strate- your long-term investments to pay drawal strategy that can help make sure you don’t outlive the income these plans can take significant time gies. for things such as a new furnace or you receive from your 401(k), IRA to create, you won’t want to wait too So, let’s take a look at each of a major car repair. And planning for and other sources. At the same time, these areas and see what they might en- the unexpected also means having long to start. given the possible length of your re- tail for you: sufficient life insurance to provide tirement, you can’t ignore the need So, there you have them: five key for your family in case anything to invest for growth, so you may financial areas on which to focus as you ● Preparing for retirement — With happens to you. advances in health care and a greater need to consider some growth-ori- travel through life. By doing your awareness of healthy living prac- ● Educating your children — Col- ented vehicles in your portfolio to homework, planning ahead and getting tices, many of us can expect to live lege is already expensive — and col- help your income keep pace with in- the help you need, you can make the two or three decades in an active re- lege expenses have been rising flation. journey a pleasant and productive one. tirement. To pay for all those years, faster than the overall rate of infla- you’ll need to save and invest early tion. If you want to help your chil- Home Ownership Has and often. So, while you’re working, dren, or grandchildren, pay for take full advantage of your 401(k) school, you may want to invest in a Never Been Easier or other employer-sponsored retire- college savings vehicle, such as the ment plan, as well as contribute to a 529 plan. You can contribute large MORTGAGES traditional or Roth IRA. After un- amounts to a 529 plan, and earnings ÛiÌ>ÊUÊÊUÊ6ÊUÊ1- FINANCIALLY YOURS There’s a Way to Fix
Tax Return Errors Federally insured by NCUA. Shares and deposits in excess of NCUA limits are fully insured by MSIC. By Samuel N. Wilson Jr. s #ONVENIENT ,OCATIONS s WWWFREEDOMCOOP Samuel N. Wilson Jr., error? Although it can depend on the deduction. You may have overlooked happen eventually. By being proactive, Certified Public Account- nature and significance of the item, the the earned income credit, or perhaps you’ll avoid some potentially stiff ant, owns an accounting answer is generally “no.” But the mat- even forgot to report a dependent. You penalties and interest charges. How- firm in Bridgeport, CT and ter may be resolved by filing an could also be unlucky enough to re- ever, the timing is critical. You have is an investment advisor. amended 2013 return. He can be reached at ceive a “revised” brokerage statement three years (including extensions) from samuel_wilson_cpa@ Certainly, you will need to file or Form K-1 from a partnership or LLC the original due date of the return to file sbcglobal.net or “Form 1040X: Amended U.S. Individ- long after you filed your original re- an amended return. If you didn’t pay 203-368-6086. ual Income Tax Return” if you discover turn. your taxes in full when you submitted FROM BRIDGEPORT, that you made a significant error on Why bother to file a Form your return, you only have two years CONNECTICUT your original tax return. But this form 1040X? If the IRS owes you money, from the date you finally paid your tax is also used to make other changes to you’ll want to file this form in order to bill to make the corrections. uppose you discover a mistake your original filing. Perhaps you decide receive your additional refund. Even if If you think you should file an or omission of an item on the to change your filing status, or you find you owe the IRS, it’s wise to file Form amended return, contact our office or S2013 federal tax return you re- more deductions and decide to itemize 1040X rather than waiting for the IRS another professional advisor for any as- cently filed. Should you ignore the them rather than claiming the standard to catch the error, which will likely sistance you need. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 10
african american point of view page ten october 1, 2014 HEALTH HEALTH MATTERS Mommy, Are You At Risk For Developing Breast Make Me Healthy By Dr. Anika C. Thrower and Danielle Jurich Cancer? By Crystal Brown, Senior Representative, Dr. Anika Thrower, value ranges are: below 18.4, 18.5– MPH, CLC 24.9, 25.0–29.9, and 30.0 and above, Community Engagement, New England Division Crystal Senter Brown WIC Program respectively (CDC, 2011). In other American Cancer Society, Inc. Manager/Cornell Scott women are slightly more likely to Hill Health Center words, a BMI of 25 and over is con- Doris Harris, Editor New Haven Food sidered unhealthy. During pregnancy, develop breast cancer than are Policy Council women with unhealthy BMIs are at Prevention Specialist African-American women, but Caring Health African-American women are more -Your Health greater risk for developing preeclamp- Center, Inc. Is My Wealth- sia, gestational diabetes, fetal loss, still- Doris can be likely to die of this cancer. How- he ability to provide a baby with birth, preterm delivery, and congenital contacted at ever, in women under 45 years of a healthy start in life is precious. anomalies. [email protected] age, breast cancer is more common TFor a healthy birth outcome, a Sometimes newly pregnant fe- in African- American women. pregnant woman has to be willing to males have a difficult time separating sustain health habits and/or make an ef- fact from fiction regarding foods to Seven Risk Factors You 5. Having children later in life: fort to live a healthier lifestyle daily. consume and how much. This can be a Need to Know About Women who have had no children Though some pregnancies are planned, time of excessive food intake “for the or who had their first child after age many are unplanned. Twenty years ago baby’s sake.” Poor nutrition can poten- ccording to the American Can- 30 have a slightly higher breast can- the unintended pregnancy rate among tially affect birth outcomes to include cer Society, breast cancer is cer risk. Having many pregnancies women within incomes below the fed- such issues as prematurity or low birth Athe most common cancer and becoming pregnant at a young eral poverty level was 88 per 1,000 weight, not to mention morbidity (ill- among American women, except for age reduce breast cancer risk. Preg- women ages 15–44. This rate increased ness) and mortality (death). Together a skin cancers. About 1 in 8 (12%) nancy reduces a woman’s total to 120 per 1,000 women in 2001 and WIC nutritionist, along with one’s med- women in the U.S. will develop inva- number of lifetime menstrual cy- 132 per 1,000 in 2006. In other words, ical team, can play a valuable role in as- sive breast cancer during their lifetime. cles, which may be the reason for there was a 50% rise over nearly two sisting expectant women sort out the this effect. decades (Finer & Zolna, 2006). This facts through health-based conversa- Risk factors for breast cancer in- 6. Oral contraceptives: Studies have means a woman can go months with tions and offering up-to-date maternal- clude: found that women using oral con- poor health habits, including smoking based literature. traceptives (birth control pills) have and unhealthy eating habits, before she (Please contact author for a citation list) 1. Getting older: As you age, your learns she is pregnant. In 2010 there risk of developing breast cancer in- a slightly greater risk of breast can- were 3,999,386 births reported in the Dear Robust Reader, creases. About 1 out of 8 invasive cer than women who have never used them. This risk seems to go United States (U.S. Census Bureau, eing pregnant can be a treas- breast cancers are found in women back to normal over time once the 2011). This meant that there were mil- ured experience as the first younger than 45, but about 2 of 3 lions of expectant mothers who faced B pills are stopped. bond is established. One discovers invasive breast cancers are found in the need to assess their health habits. women age 55 or older. quickly that sustaining a new life Many studies showed that a 7. Being overweight or obese: Being goes far beyond considering baby mother’s health status, in particular her 2. Family history of breast cancer: overweight or obese after weight, has a direct impact on the he- names, decorating a space, and Your risk for developing breast can- menopause increases breast cancer alth of her infant (Moschonis, Gramma- buying clothes. It’s a time to be op- cer is higher if you have a close risk. Having more fat tissue after tikaki, & Manios, 2008) and even the timist about the prospects of the blood relative with the disease. menopause can increase your baby’s future weight. In other words, healthiest birth outcomes possible Having one first-degree relative chance of getting breast cancer by many times a parent’s weight/health he- for the infant and a pivotal time in (mother, sister or daughter) with raising estrogen levels avily influences their child’s weight/he- which a woman has to take pre- breast cancer approximately dou- alth. Minority women continue to ventive steps to ensure a baby has bles a woman’s risk. You can join in the fight against experience the greatest impact of poor the best start in life. breast cancer by joining the 2014 birth outcomes such as gestational dia- 3. Personal history of breast cancer: American Cancer Society Making betes (diabetes only while pregnant). Next month we will dig deeper A woman with cancer in one breast Strides Against Breast Cancer on Poor health is often directly linked to into issues around maternal health. has a 3- to 4-fold increased risk of Sunday, October 5 at Stanley Park in being overweight. According to the Please forward your thoughts, com- developing a new cancer in the Westfield. Teams may register online Centers for Disease Control, for the ments, and ideas, as they are important other breast or in another part of the at weight categories: underweight, normal to me, to: same breast. http://www.makingstrideswalk.org/p weight, overweight, and obese, the cor- [email protected], ioneervalleyma. Call 413-493-2100 responding body mass index (BMI) attention: Anika. ■ 4. Race and ethnicity: Overall, white for more info! ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 11
african american point of view page eleven october 1, 2014
Patient Yvette with BBWC Supervisor Linda Garvey
With You for Life.
At the Baystate Breast & Wellness Center, our specialists and surgeons are committed to life. Your life. Our entire team works together to bring you the latest diagnosis and treatments. More than that, we offer the care and support you need every step of the way, including the region’s most comprehensive Breast Cancer Survivorship Program.
Our beautiful, new center offers comfort and convenience, backed by experts committed to providing a meticulous level of care. If it’s time for your screening mammogram, call us today–we even offer early morning, early evening, and Saturday appointments.
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100 Wason Avenue, 3rd Floor | Springfield
Learn more and take an online photo tour at baystatehealth.org/breastcenter
CS147886 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 12
african american point of view page twelve october 1, 2014 HEALTH HEALTH MATTERS
New Information for Those Considering Double Mastectomy hile many women are opting to have a dou- “This is a very important part of the sur- ble mastectomy for early stage breast can- gical consultation for breast cancer. It is es- Wcer, studies are beginning to show that the sential for patients to understand the procedure is not linked to a lower risk of death than multidisciplinary approach (surgery, medica- other options, such as breast-conserving therapy in tion, radiation) to breast cancer treatment. A conjunction with radiation. more extensive surgery does not necessarily “This is a trend that we have seen here in West- improve survival,” said Dr. Mason. ern Massachusetts. Many of the women that we see The Baystate breast surgeon noted that who have been diagnosed with breast cancer are con- although the idea of the double mastectomy cerned about the future risk of breast cancer in the may be appealing, it is a significantly larger surgery ers or patients with a strong family history for breast other (non-affected) breast and, therefore, are asking than breast conservation. cancer. about the double mastectomy as a way to improve sur- “We are seeing data that shows that the compli- “For these patients, the question may be whether vival,” said surgical oncologist Holly Mason, who cation rate (the risk of bleeding, infection, wound or not the double mastectomy should occur at the time serves as director of Breast Services at Baystate Med- breakdown or need for reoperation) is higher in pa- of breast cancer treatment or at a later date, once breast ical Center. tients undergoing the double mastectomy than in pa- cancer treatment is completed,” she said. ■ “As evidenced in this study, as well as in other tients undergoing recent studies, this is not the case. For the individual breast conservation patient, optimizing treatment of the cancer that we or a unilateral mas- know about now (and not a potential future cancer) is tectomy. In terms of the treatment that will improve survival,” she added. breast cancer treat- The study was published in a recent edition of ment, this can mean the Journal of the American Medical Association a delay in the start of (JAMA). In the study, out of Stanford University the other treatment School of Medicine, the authors noted that previous that is absolutely research has shown that patients with early-stage necessary to control breast cancer have similar survival rates whether the breast cancer, treated with a combination of breast-conserving ther- such as chemother- apy and radiation or a mastectomy. Yet, they note in apy or radiation,” their published study that the number of breast cancer said Dr. Mason. patients undergoing a mastectomy, in particular, a However, Dr. double mastectomy, is increasing. Mason implied that In an accompanying editorial addressing the arguments over the study, the point was made that doctors must inform double mastectomy their patients of the surgical risks – especially that do not necessarily there is still a chance of new or recurrent breast can- apply to the BRCA cer. gene mutation carri- READING TO SUCCEED Turn Our Writing Crisis into a Writing Revolution continued from page 8 turn our writing crisis into a writing “Our national transition to a revolution.” knowledge-based economy is certain I will support this writing revo- to continue, requiring an increasing lution. Will you make it happen in level of writing proficiency for work- your home and advocate for it to hap- ers across all industries and job lev- pen in your child’s classroom? els. Giving young students a solid foundation, intervening with older http://www.huffingtonpost.com/stev students who struggle, and sharing e-graham/fixing-our-national- responsibility for writing across the writi_b_5708625.html?ncid=fcbklnk entire education community can help ushpmg00000020 ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 13
african american point of view page thirteen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES CALL TO THE CAUSE We Are Ferguson, Missouri Protect The Good Inside By Bishop Talbert W. Swan, II Of You At All Cost By Kirk Smith gations and communities. The quest for For as many opportunities as we have to enhance our goodness, there are equal Bishop Talbert W. racial justice comes not just through Swan, II is Pastor of The proclamation but through demonstra- Kirk Smith is President chances for our goodness to diminish. & CEO, YMCA of Spring Of Hope Church tion. I attempted to get Springfield The goodness in kids gets tested Of God In Christ & Greater Springfield every day. They may have classmates President of the Greater Mayor Domenic Sarno to appoint a 413-739-6951 www.springfieldy.org who don’t share their values. They may Springfield NAACP commission to study police/community have friends who have different priori- and race relations and make recommen- ties. Certainly, technology and social dations on how we can avoid a Fergu- media provide very easy threats to our he violent scenes from Fergu- believe that every person is born son-like situation. He responded by goodness. son, Missouri in August are not with a high degree of goodness. Twhat most Americans expected noting the city’s efforts against gang vi- And, throughout the course of our As adults, the more successful and I visible we become in our careers, the to see in 2014. Yet, the simmering ten- olence as if that was the root of racial lives, we have many opportunities to sions in that town, following the shoot- divisions. gain more good ― our living situations, more our goodness gets tested. There are people who will attack your charac- ing of an unarmed teenager, did not I’ve got news for the mayor and parents, grandparents, care givers, ter and speak poorly of you, all in an ef- come as a big surprise to those of us all those who think Springfield is pre- teachers, friends, neighbors and others all play a role in our goodness. These fort to take away your God-given who have been warning that we were pared to avoid a Ferguson-like reaction: nearing the boiling point of racial ten- opportunities shape everything about us goodness. Call it jealously or insecurity, racial and ethnic division and bigotry sions. ― our manners, work ethic, intelli- but people will try to compromise your are not merely historical vestiges still We don’t yet know everything gence, athleticism, and many other per- goodness and cause you to be consumed about what’s happened, or is happen- existing in our city and across the na- sonality traits. by bitterness, anger and distrust. ing, in Ferguson, but here’s what we do tion, these divisions and hatred are Although not everyone is brought But if we stop being good, what’s know. Michael Brown was shot and older than America, and are rooted in up in ideal settings, even challenging the point of living? Answer the call to the cause: pro- killed by police and protests in the an evil deception that tells us that God environments can contribute to our goodness. In fact, difficult situations tect your goodness. Stay good by sur- wake of his horrible death were met made one race superior to another. rounding yourself with good people. No with a virtual militarized response from where our goodness is tested can often Ferguson reminds us that Ameri- one is good enough to surround them- law enforcement in the area. inspire personal greatness. can society has a long way to go in selves with bad people and think they We also know that the myth of a As time goes on, personal good- healing old hatreds. The stories of un- are going to stay good. It’s impossible. “post-racial” America is contradicted ness grows or goes. As much as you by a criminal justice system in which armed black men being killed across may become a better person, there are threats against your goodness every day. (To view this editorial and Smith’s past young African-American men are, by the nation make one thing painfully Over time, some people succumb to articles, visit www.springfieldy.org/cat- almost any measure, disproportionately clear: The killing of black men in inci- these threats and lose their goodness. egory/news/president-ceo-editorials.) ■ more likely to be arrested, sentenced, dents that begin as investigatory police or even killed when compared to white stops are anything but unusual in Amer- COMMUNITY INFORMATION peers. It’s not just the situation in which ica. In this sense, Ferguson is Every- there’s disparity, but also even in the town, U.S.A. Springfield, STCC and HCC Launch Classes perception of the problem. A recent Massachusetts is Ferguson, Missouri. Pew study showed that when asked the Downtown at UMass Center When we examine what happened question, “Do police treat blacks less will run through December 19 at the fairly?” 33 percent of whites said “yes” in Ferguson – at the violence and the continued from page 5 Executive Director of the UMass UMass Center from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on while nearly 80 percent of African- anger and sorrow and the repression, at Donahue Institute and Co-Director of Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Americans said “yes”. Whatever the the profound and agonizing questions the Springfield start-up Dr. J. Lynn particulars of the terrible situation in that swirl concerning integrity and peo- All classes and curriculum materials Griesemer applauded the two commu- Ferguson, racial division is far from re- ple’s rights to live – we understand that are free for students enrolled in the pro- solved in America. nity colleges for embracing a partner- gram. we’ve been through it before in our ship with UMass. In today’s racially divided nation, To sign up for classes in the future own beloved city. We must understand “Through offering adult basic ed- we cannot simply advocate for racial or to learn more about the Adult Basic that this isn’t something new. It isn’t a ucation classes at the UMass Center we justice; we must embody it. We ought Education classes held at the UMass to speak to the structures of society new phenomenon. It is in our nation’s are creating another pathway, making Center, please contact the STCC Adult about principles of morality and right- fabric. This is who we are. It’s who higher education a reality for everyone eousness, but we also ought to model we’ve been for a very long time. We are in our community,” said Griesemer. Education Center, Monday through Fri- those principles in our homes, congre- Ferguson, Missouri. ■ Classes began September 15 and day, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at (413) 755-4300. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 14
african american point of view page fourteen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PIONEER VALLEY (LPV) do we stay home? As leaders, our obligation does Don’t Just Think About It, Run! In the Commonwealth, we are not stop at the ballot box. We need to By Lora Wondolowski among the least competitive in elec- take the next step and get involved in exhausting, but also a rush. Although I tions in the nation. Five of our nine elections. We can foster a culture of Lora Wondolowski, members of Congress were unopposed Director of Leadership have not been very active on cam- competition in state politics, like we Pioneer Valley, she is paigns since that time, I still feel com- in the primaries, including our U.S. saw in the open senate seat for the First passionate about pelled to get involved and advocate for Senator. In the legislature, 52% of state Hampden and Hampshire district with strengthening the citizen involvement in elections. Cam- senators were unopposed and roughly five Democratic candidates. We can Pioneer Valley. 50% of representatives lack challengers Contact her at paigns still have a “pull” on me. urge members of our organizations and this year. With few contested races on 413-737-3876 or We are now in full swing for this community groups to start running in www.leadershippv.org the ballot, it’s no wonder that few vot- year’s mid-term elections. The primar- primaries. We can support candidates ers got excited about voting. very fall, geese and other migra- ies have been decided and the general as individuals with our time and treas- Now don’t get me wrong, I re- tory birds get restless and jittery, election is only a month away with can- ure. Better yet, we can consider run- spect and appreciate our incumbent being pulled by a force outside E didates vying for seats from the State elected officials and their dedication ning ourselves. I am proud that two of themselves to do something. Similar House to the Governor’s office. Sadly, and service. Experience and relation- Leadership Pioneer Valley alumni ran to the birds, every other year I also get the primaries drew historically low ships are important on Capitol Hill and for local elected offices last year and restless being pulled by a different turnout numbers last month. Each year Beacon Hill. But without challengers, one of them won. What would it take force. I spent ten years prior to Leader- this number seems to shrink. We can how can we ensure new ideas, legisla- for more emerging leaders to consider ship Pioneer Valley working for politi- only hope that there will be more ex- tors that mirror our communities, and running (besides money)? Countless cal environmental organizations. citement around the general election. root out complacency? Our democracy potential candidates—thoughtful men During those campaign seasons, my Where is everybody? Our gover- relies on both active voters and candi- and women—could bring a lot to pub- schedule was not my own. There were nor and state legislators will address dates. lic affairs. Don’t just think about it, run! countless long days and late nights of important issues such as local funding, door-knocking, phone calls, debates, domestic violence, jobs, minimum and rallies in support of the candidates wage, climate change, and the list goes 413-273-4022 my organization had endorsed. It was on. With so many complex issues, why COMMUNITY FOCUS Remembering Carole Johnson By Dale Parker Specializing in Siding, Repairs on siding, Insulation, Windows, they held the first Buckingham Re- Roofing, Drywall, Flooring, Painting and much more! union in October, 1991. Carole re- Hall. Tickets are $50 with a compli- contact: Ruth at 413-734-6919, Carol mained the driving force, the head, and mentary fish fry on October 17th at at 413-636-9196, Elaine at 413-788- the glue for the reunion committee for Cozy Courtyard. 8175 or Solid Gold Beauty Palace, 40 many years until unfortunate circum- For tickets and information, Berkshire Ave. at 413-732-4542. ■ stances cause a few postponements. This year Carole said: “We have to do this.” Regrettably, her health declined and she succumbed before completing plans for this year’s reunion. Carole was devoted to her mother, her sisters, her children and grandchil- dren. She believed that education is the key for people of color so that we don’t repeat the past or let others determine our future. She exemplified her passion arole Johnson, the originator of for education by earning her bachelor’s the Buckingham Jr. High and master’s degrees at AIC and was CSchool Reunion, was called currently pursuing a doctorate at the home on September 6, 2014. She re- University of Phoenix. cruited committee members Elaine The Buckingham Junior High Scott, Ruth Malone and David Mont- School Reunion will be held this year gomery at the 1991 Stone Soul week- in memory of Carole Johnson on Oc- end, and, in a little more than a month, tober 18, 2014 at the Cedars Banquet POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 15
african american point of view page fifteen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY INFORMATION Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women Hosting Holyoke Public Hearing on Women’s Issues The October 22 hearing at Holyoke Community College provides a forum for the region’s stakeholders to discuss issues and concerns important to women, gaps in provision of services he Massachusetts Commission available. Citizens, government offi- reporting on the status of women in ber 22 hearing. Those interested in tes- on the Status of Women will cials, and organizations that advocate Massachusetts. tifying should sign in upon arriving at host a public hearing on Octo- for women and families in the region The testimonies provided will be T the event and will be called upon in ber 22, 2014, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 are invited to attend and encouraged to recorded and discussed by the commis- pm. The hearing will be held in room participate in the open public hearing sioners to consider the impact of policy order of entry. Oral statements should 205 at the Kittredge Center at by providing testimony/recommenda- on women and families in the region. be limited to three minutes per speaker Holyoke Community College, lo- tions. The findings will be cited in the and should include recommendations cated at 303 Homestead Avenue, The Massachusetts Commission MCSW Annual Report to the Commis- to the commissions. Holyoke, MA 01040. on the Status of Women serves to ad- sion’s appointing authorities and to The purpose of the hearing is to vance women toward full equality in all state and local officials. In following up For more information about the give all stakeholders in Holyoke as areas of life and to provide a perma- on the recommendations, the commis- Massachusetts Commission on the Sta- well as those in the surrounding com- nent, effective voice for women in sions will work with regional organiza- tus of Women or the October 22 hear- munities the opportunity to discuss is- communities across the Common- tions and elected officials to assess the ing, please contact Jill Ashton, director sues and concerns important to women, wealth. The October 22 public hearing impact of legislation. as well as the gaps or barriers they have is one way the Commission fulfill its The commissions will accept both of MCSW, at [email protected] or experienced in the provision of services mandate of surveying, reviewing and written and oral testimony at the Octo- 617-626-6520. ■
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african american point of view page seventeen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY LATIN@ GROOVE Unity Is An Unlocked Door By Magdalena Gómez Magdalena Gómez is the it was diverse and intergenerational. It Co-founder and Artistic was not hetero-normative; it Director of Springfield’s wasn’t/isn’t always “civil” in disobedi- first and only ence (nor should it be) and it was nur- Latin@theater, Teatro V!da. tured globally by the great heroic Ms. Gómez has been a actions of many, such as Steven Biko, teaching artist for who in the mainstream, remains in the over 35 years. shadow of Mandela. Yes, we have cre- lantation models have left an en- ated iconic representations of great during and highly effective movements, but countless events of Ptrademark of divide and conquer human sacrifice preceded and continue between the field and the house. When to follow Rosa Parks getting on that we rip each other apart, scrambling for bus or Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” the crumbs that fall from the king’s speech. Nelson Mandela didn’t do it banquet, we will find ourselves in the alone either. What schools, except for company of rats. one or two, teach stateside Puerto groups. The cause is greater than the in- When ethnocentrism dominates While it is imperative that we pro- Rican and Cuban children the role of dividual. one’s worldview, we deprive ourselves vide venue where our individual cul- tobacco workers in their shared strug- As a self-identified “Matriarchal of allies in the never-ending struggle tures may gather and organize, it is in gle for independence? Who among us Socialist,” Fred had a staunchly conser- against tyranny. Michael Brown’s exe- forming alliances and trust across eth- can call Los Tabaqueros by their sur- vative, blue blood Republican benefac- cution in Ferguson, Missouri is not nicity and class that we activate true names? tor. She respected his art and embraced simply the result of “police brutality” and enduring power for social change. Harvard Arts Medal recipient, him, disregarding politics. They were but a society that has permitted such The Civil Rights Movement, which is Fred Ho, my dear friend and comrade great friends who worked together to human degradation to perpetuate; some not past tense as we still must tend to who died in April, often reminded his heal hearts and open minds with his do so with intent, others by tacit con- civil and human rights violations here audiences that alliances for what is just singularly historic, undefinable and sent. No tyrant comes to power in a in the U.S., was never monochromatic; can happen among the most disparate prophetic music. continues to page 31 FEATURE Changing Lives through Literature, a Powerful Partnership By Emurriel Holloway Western New England University and the Hampden County Superior Court Emurriel Holloway is a Probation Department honored nine retired Springfield Public probationers who successfully com- Schools Administrator pleted the CLTL program. During a 10- and a freelance writer for week, nationally recognized program, Point of View this group of men read poems, essays, short stories and the always inspira- tional, “To Kill A Mocking Bird,” using Nine probationers successfully completed the Changing Lives through here are people in places that literature to change their lives. Professor Literature program and were honored at a ceremony held in Hampden truly can and do make a differ- Brad Sullivan of Western New England County Superior Court. The program was headed by Western New Eng- Tence. They skillfully employ the University, Assistant Chief Probation land University Professor Brad Sullivan, the Honorable Judge Tina S. synergy of partnering and collaboration Officer Lorraine Samuelson Sigall and Page and Assistant Chief Probation Officer Lorraine Samuelson Sigall for the greater impact. Such was the the Honorable Judge Tina S. Page They engaged comfortably in conversa- and behaviors, and rehabilitate through case with the Changing Lives Through spearheaded the program in Western tions with program supporters and other discussions about literature as a condi- Literature (CLTL) Program. Massachusetts. guests. And why wouldn’t they? The lit- tion of their probation. The program On September 12, 2014, the Ham- The honorees, the first Western erature seminars of the CLTL program helps probationers to integrate into so- pden County Superior Court Depart- Massachusetts CLTL program class, give probationers an opportunity to ment of the Massachusetts Trial Court, presented handsomely for the occasion. build self-esteem, practice social skills continues to page 33 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 18
african american point of view page eighteen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS FANNIE LOU at Carnegie Hall to Benefit Social-Justice Center To help Simmons and CLSJ help the often underserved and un- derrepresented members of its Brooklyn community and beyond, a special production of “Scenes and Songs from Fannie Lou” will take place at Zankel Hall at Esmeralda Simmons Carnegie Hall on Oct. 9. Part of hen it came to the the proceeds from the event will question of how to uti- benefit the center; a portion of all Wlize her life, Esmeralda parterre-level tickets sold will be Simmons had little trouble decid- donated to CLSJ. Some of the "Scenes and Songs from Fannie Lou: At Carnegie Hall" ing exactly what to do. Felicia Hunter cast members and musicians “I cut my teeth as an activist spective-setting dialogue about the Lou Hamer also understood, Sim- in the student protest movement. history, impact and importance of mons noted. So I have been active since then. voting rights in the United States. “Fannie Lou Hamer was an This is my calling,” said Simmons Simmons will be a featured inspiration to me because she about her days as a student at speaker during this portion of the knew exactly what the conse- Hunter College and the political evening, highlighting some of the quences were going to be before climate during the late 1960’s and work CLSJ has conducted and the [she acted],” said Simmons. “She early 1970’s, which sparked her areas, such as redistricting, where had a ‘good job’ on the plantation, career choice. it continues to focus its efforts. which she lost. Then she organ- As founder and executive di- Another issue that will be dis- ized others, telling them not to be rector of the Center for Law and cussed is the Voting Rights Act, it- afraid.” Social Justice (CLSJ) at Medgar Fannie Lou is a new, original self. Fannie Lou Hamer and other “If Fannie Lou were alive Evers College (CUNY), Simmons musical inspired by the life of civil rights pioneers fought long today, she’d be on Twitter, she’d has been an advocate for the dis- grassroots voting rights activist and hard – many giving their lives be on Facebook, all those other so- enfranchised in the African Amer- Fannie Lou Hamer. The work, – so the 1965 legislation ensuring cial media avenues,” said Sim- ican community for the past 28 written by playwright/composer the right to vote for all citizens mons, “letting people know what years. During that time, she’s seen Felicia Hunter, had its world pre- would see the light of day. Yet, in they have to do and when.” the need for the center’s services miere in New York City in 2012. 2013 the U.S. Supreme Court in- intensify. “Scenes and Songs from Fannie validated a crucial section of the Support the work of the Center for “I wish I could say we didn’t Lou: At Carnegie Hall” is a sump- Act, grossly weakening its effec- Law and Social Justice by coming need to do this work. But there’s tuous evening of selected music tiveness. The development ar- to see “Scenes and Songs from so much of it, we can’t handle it and dialogue from the musical, guably has made the job of CLSJ Fannie Lou: At Carnegie Hall,” on all,” she said. presented in concert format. More as a voting-rights watchdog and Oct. 9. To purchase a ticket or for CLSJ is a nonprofit, commu- than a dozen singer-actors, accom- legal advocate even more difficult. more information, visit nity-based service organization panied by a six-piece instrumental “Half of my career doing vot- http://www.carnegiehall.org/Cal- that provides advocacy, research, ensemble, will bring Fannie Lou ing rights work was doing volun- endar/2014/10/9/0730/PM/Scen training and legal services in a Hamer’s struggle for voting rights teer work,” she said, adding, es-and-Songs-from-Fannie-Lou/ or number of areas. Those areas in- to the world-renowned Zankel “Nobody has enough money to www.fannieloumusical.com, or clude education, immigration, Hall at Carnegie Hall stage. pay you to fight for your free- call CarnegieCharge (212) 247- 7800, or visit the Box Office at 57th misuse of police authority and vot- In addition to the perform- dom.” and Seventh. ■ ing rights. ance, the evening will feature per- That was something Fannie POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 19
african american point of view page nineteen october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS St John’s Singers among Hundreds to Perform at Springfield Unity Festival Concert Saturday, October 18 hen you think about the city and an all-day music seminar con- of Springfield, you can’t ducted by Dr. Raymond Wise. The Whelp but notice the multicul- seminar will be held at the Rebecca turalism that gives Springfield its Johnson School for Springfield uniqueness. It can be found by simply school students on Friday, October walking up and down the city streets, 17, 2014. The seminar will be topped visiting the many local restaurants, and off by a short concert showcasing what listening to conversations people hare the students have learned at 1:30 p.m. having amongst themselves. We hear The SUFC is hoping that the im- and see this wonderful cultural diver- pact left on the city from these events sity virtually anywhere. With this melt- will be indelible. “It has been a dream ing pot of a city, it can sometimes be of mine to see all of Springfield’s cul- hard to find the place where you feel tural diversity gathered together in like you fit in. song, celebrating our unity and diver- Lee Hagon, Vocal Music Director sity. Springfield Unity Festival will be at Minnechaug Regional High School, a unique vocal concert and we encour- and York Mayo, Community Volunteer, age all to attend and be inspired.” Tick- envisioned an event that would pro- ets for the Springfield Unity Choral mote racial and cultural peace and un- York Mayo, Community Volunteer (far right) and Lee Hagon, Vocal Music Concert are $10.00 and are available derstanding; an event with no cultural Director at Minnechaug Regional High School, envisioned an event that for purchase from the City Stage box or language barriers, but of acceptance would promote racial and cultural peace and understanding. office or online at www.springfield- and unity. The idea was the Springfield unityfestival.com. ■ Unity Choral Festival (SUCF). To- Springfield Symphony Hall on Satur- gether, they sought support for the idea day, October 18, 2014, at 7:30pm. and engaged community leaders Jay The choral group will be made up of Adams of St. John’s Congregational three hundred local singers from di- Church, Ray Drury of First Baptist of verse backgrounds. Dr. Raymond Wise, East Longmeadow, and Rafael Osorio Choral Director for the event, is one of of the Apostolic Renewal Church. the leading gospel choral directors in Together, this music team would the world. He is also a renowned begin to cultivate the idea of the SUCF. singer, dancer, lecturer, teacher, record- A leadership team, made up of out- ing artist, and composer and serves on standing volunteers, was formed to the faculty of Indiana University. make the idea a reality. One thing each Dr. Wise has been commissioned leadership team member has in com- to write an anthem celebrating greater mon is that they see a need for uniting Springfield’s unity and cultural diver- the people of Springfield. “Our city is sity. In addition to the three hundred- filled with so much potential and bring- voice choir, a small fifty-voice choir, ing the people together and fostering a named Una Voz (one voice), will be spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood is rendering selections promoting unity in key in creating a positive outlook on various languages such as English, Springfield,” said Kenneth Young, Sen- Spanish and Hebrew. “I think it’s im- ior Associate Pastor at St. John’s Con- perative that we sing in various lan- gregational Church. guages because that’s what Springfield is, diverse in culture but unified in What exactly is the SUCF? spirit,” said Brian Bailey, an Una Voz It is a unique opportunity for the participant. citizens of the greater Springfield area Not only is the SUFC an outlet for to celebrate our diversity, and unite in citizens but it is also invested in enrich- song, with people from all the rich cul- ing the community. The SUFC will be Visit hosting a “music swap,” a nationally- www.springfieldunityfestival.com tures in the Pioneer Valley. This one-of- for more information and to purchase tickets. a-kind choral event will take place at known speaker on unity and diversity, POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:47 PM Page 20
african american point of view page twenty october 1, 2014 Around Town & . . .
2014 Ubora Award recipient Jerald “Jay” Griffin (seated center) with previous award recipients, standing from left: Dr. Albert Garner (2011), Chester Gibbs YWCA YouthBuild Springfield and Rebuilding Together Springfield celebrate (1999), Jesse Lanier (2004); seated from left: Bettye Webb (1996), Geraldine their completion of a house on Bowles Street with a ribbon cutting and reception. Garner (2011), Griffin (2014), Barbara Lanier (2004), and Denise Jordan (2007).
Baystate Health again sponsored a Diversity Conference. The morning panel The Baystate Health contingent at the annual Puerto Rican parade from left: Nathanael Harris, Comcast; Delores Campuzano, MGM; Jennifer Sil- held in Springfield. vestri, Baystate Health; Joelle Murchison, Travelers; Kimberley Williams, Baystate Health; and Phillip Berry, PRISM International.
Martin Luther King Jr., Inc. Family Center Director Ronn Johnson receives the deed to the Center from Atty. James Martin of Pillsbury Doherty and Wallace as Pastor Angelo Dawson (center), the Bethel AME church family and the Goodman board member Trish P. Smith (left) and Atty. Craig Brown also from the law firm family celebrate the 102nd birthday of Mrs. Viola Goodman (center). (right) look on. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 21
african american point of view page twenty-one october 1, 2014 . . .In The Community
The Peter Brace Brigade take part in the Stone Soul Festival parade. The Stone Soul Festival recognized Mr. Lee Davis who poses with family members during the picnic.
The Stone Soul Festival recognized community members for their outstanding contributions.
Springfield City Councilor Justin Hurst and Springfield School Committee Vice Brookings School Principal Mrs. Terry Powe Chair Denise Hurst celebrate their first “100 Days in Office and Counting. . .” with two of her students, who with special guest Sheriff Michael J. Ashe, Jr. were recognized at the “Peace First” luncheon at the Western Massachusetts Correctional Alcohol Center on Howard Street.
Progressive Community Baptist Church, Joe C. Long, Jr., Pastor, held Board members, volunteers and participants gather after the Carl Joseph their annual Harvest Clothing Walker-Hoover Anti-Bullying Back-to-School 5k Road Race/2k Walk held Drive to benefit the community. at Forest Park in Springfield. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 22
african american point of view page twenty-two october 1, 2014
CONGRATULATIONS CORNER
ongratulations to Kamari Collins who was re- ongratulations to Paul Robbins of Paul Robbins cently appointed Dean of Academic Advising & Stu- Associates, Inc. “who won two awards in the 2014 dent Success at Springfield Technical Community CSummit Creative Award® competition for his docu- C mentary-style video titled “Wally, Derek, Gladys” produced College. He previously served as the college’s Director of Academic Advising. for HAPHousing. Robbins is now a six-time winner of the Summit Creative Award for video.”
ongratulations to former Hampden County District Attorney Mark G. Mastroianni who was nomi- ongratulations to Mayor Domenic J. Sarno who Cnated as a U. S. District Court Judge, District of Mas- was voted Best Local Official in The Republican and sachusetts, by President Barack Obama on September 24, CMassLive.com’s Reader Raves poll. After getting 2013, confirmed by the Senate on June 4, 2014, received his over his initial surprise, he responded in his typical, humble commission on June 5, 2014 and was sworn in on June 9, manner by thanking the readers and accepting the award “on 2014. Rick and I wish you the very best and know that you behalf of all our dedicated and hardworking city employees.” will admirably follow Judge Ponsor’s legacy. Congratulations, Mayor Sarno, you deserve it!
ongratulations to Jamina Scippio-McFadden who was recently appointed Director of Student CServices, Academic Support, Marketing and Com- munity Relations of the UMass Center at Springfield. She previously was Assistant Professor of Communications at American International College. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MORROW FAMILY wo hundred plus Morrow family members from the East coast to the West Coast and North Tand South―MA, CT, CA,WA, MI, IN, IL, OH, WI, KY, GA, SC, NC & FL―attended the 42nd year of family reunions held this year in Beloit, WI. Family matriarch, Dora Morrow (seated center), who is 92 years of age, and just retired a year ago from the International trav- eling group “Young At Heart Chorus” of Northampton, MA, is surrounded by 14 of her 15 children. Sally Morrow Arnold passed away in 2010. Photo taken from www.beloitdailynews.com POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 23
african american point of view page twenty-three october 1, 2014
COMMUNITY THROUGH 10th ANNUAL CONFERENCE COMMUNITY FOCUS “GIRLS CAN!” 10th Annual Through Her Eyes Thursday, October 23, 2014 HER MassMutual Center | Springfield, MA Girls Conference – Girls Can! Hosted by Featuring Keynote Speaker, multi-media presentation that will dis- cuss the essence of girls and the many EYES MC LYTE! In partnership with abilities they possess. Participants will October 23, 2014 leave inspired and reminded that there MassMutual Center are no limits to what girls can do! John Roberson, CHD Vice Presi- he Center for Human Develop- dent of Children & Family Services, has Speaking & Performing: ment (CHD), in partnership with been organizing this conference for 10 TSpringfield College School of years: “I’m very proud to be a part of Human Services (SHS), is excited to the team that has grown this conference M. C. LYTE welcome MC Lyte as the keynote into an indispensable resource for pro- Lyricist, hip-hop pioneer, entrepreneur, speaker for the 10th annual Through fessionals from all over New England social activist and an example for people Her Eyes Girls Conference! The event to develop practical skills that help girls everywhere that Girls Can! is held every year to address the issues thrive and become successful adults. facing girls and young women at risk of Partnering with Springfield College’s personal and social dangers in our cul- School of Human Services is a great Workshops will focus on current methods ture. Through inspiring presentations way to ensure that the workshops and and best practices to help today’s girls grow and informative workshops, the confer- presenters continue to be the best avail- into tomorrow’s strong women. ence focuses on the most current meth- able.” ods and practices for working with girls SHS is also proud to partner with For more details or to register, please visit confronting challenges in their lives. CHD for the Through Her Eyes confer- www.chd.org/throughhereyes MC Lyte truly embodies the theme ence in appreciation of the important of this year’s Conference: “Girls Can!” work that CHD does to improve our As a pioneer in the hip-hop music in- communities. The conference’s focus dustry, MC Lyte was the first solo fe- on nurturing the extraordinary potential male rapper to release a full-length of young women as they navigate soci- album in 1988 with her critically ac- etal challenges coincides with the claimed Lyte as a Rock. Throughout her School’s goal of providing higher edu- career, MC Lyte achieved a number of cation and leadership development to distinctions including the first rap artist the adults who work to empower these ever to perform at New York’s historic young women. Carnegie Hall and the first female rap- For more information or to regis- per to ever receive a gold single. ter, please visit www.chd.org/through- MC Lyte continued promoting hereyes. positive images of women of ethnic di- versity by founding the Hip Hop Sisters Springfield College’s School of Human Services offers weekend programs to ex- Network, a non-profit foundation pro- perienced adults who care deeply about OCTOBER 16, 2014 · WILSON AUDITORIUM · 6:30 P.M. viding national and international sup- their communities. It is interesting to note port to women and youth around the that the SHS awards more bachelor’s Disrupting the Status Quo: globe. The HHSN has presented two and master’s degrees in social services and public administration to African Creating a Youth Empowerment Model $100,000 scholarships to college stu- American and Latino students than most dents each year since its inception. other institutions in the country. It is con- for Undocumented Immigrant Youth The lunchtime presentation enti- sistently ranked first or second for award- Lauren Burke, Esquire tled #GirlsCan will feature Helen ing bachelor’s degrees to minority students in the U.S. Caulton-Harris, Commissioner of the Since graduating from the NYU School of Law in 2009, Attorney Burke has dedicated her career to empowering immigrants and children, focusing Division of Community Services for the With over 70 programs and services, on survivors of trauma. Lauren Burke is City of Springfield, Crystal Senter- CHD is Western Massachusetts’ largest and most successful social service organ- the Executive Director of Atlas: Developing Brown, Latoya Bosworth (Brenda’s ization, delivering a broad array of criti- Immigrant Youth (DIY), a public interest career Child), and Lynette Johnson. These cal services with proven effectiveness, counselor at NYU School of Law, and a 2014 integrity and compassion. Each year, amazing women who themselves exem- Echoing Green Global Fellow. plify the conference’s theme will inform CHD’s community based social service and behavioral health programs reach the audience through a powerful spoken over 18,000 people. word performance coupled with a POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 24
african american point of view page twenty-four october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY INFORMATION Strong Schools, Strong City Ayala and Malloy Announce Achieve Hartford!’s Increased Resources to Improve New Attitude Bridgeport Schools Achieve Hartford! Board Chair, Partner of Robinson + Cole. Alliance School District What is their big idea? Together program providing towns with the community, Achieve Hartford! with support for full-day envisions Hartford Public Schools HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT graduating all students prepared for Kindergarten, early (September 18, 2014) – Achieve Hart- college and career, thereby building a education, and student ford! announced today the launch of its viable talent pipeline for local busi- new brand that includes the tagline nesses and secure futures for Hartford Andres Ayala services Dannel P. Malloy “Strong Schools, Strong City.” residents. We maintain high expecta- HARTFORD, CT – State Senator An- Bridgeport schools have benefited Achieve Hartford! believes that tions for schools, students, families and dres Ayala and Governor Dannel P. Mal- from the additional funding by improv- strong schools lead to a strong city. De- the community. loy announced a major state investment ing curriculum, offering students in high in local schools. Alliance School Dis- school more college and career-oriented veloping great schools requires not “It is becoming increasingly clear tricts in communities around the state classwork opportunities. Schools have only that the school system operate that to address seemingly intractable will receive a total of $132,901,813 in also improved efforts to improve atten- with excellence, but also the entire urban issues, like education, there must additional funding for the 2014-15 aca- dance and help keep students from drop- community. Paul Diego Holzer, execu- be a force that is pushing for collabora- demic year to help implement academic ping out of school. Students who are tive director of Achieve Hartford!, said, tion and alignment that cuts across the improvement plans. Bridgeport will re- chronically absent, missing ten percent “It takes a village to educate a child and sectors. That is what I see Achieve ceive $14,704,804 of this total. of school days, in the ninth grade are less it is our job to help families, commu- Hartford! doing in its new strategic The Alliance District program is likely to graduate high school within the state’s lead initiative to improve stu- four years. nity members, school leaders, philan- plan, and it’s exciting,” said Ted Carrol, dent success in the state’s 30 most chron- Early education opportunities in thropy, businesses, and policy makers President of Leadership Greater Hart- ically struggling school districts and to Bridgeport are also improving thanks to to play their unique roles to ensure kids ford. help close achievement gaps. Since its the Alliance District program. Students succeed at school, college, career and A better education leads to better creation in 2012, the Alliance District in Kindergarten through grade three are life.” career opportunities which leads to bet- program has invested $259,843,832 in given additional support by helping ed- Convening each stakeholder ter lives. If we believe and invest, we Connecticut’s high-need school districts. ucators identify and correct any socio- group to play its own role has been the can create strong schools and a strong “Bridgeport’s membership in the emotional problems students are having organization’s focus since it was city! Alliance District program has helped that may inhibit learning. In addition to improving atten- founded by business and community keep students in school and improve the About Achieve Harford!: quality of education available to them,” dance and early education, Alliance Dis- leaders in 2008. Throughout the strate- tricts around Connecticut use the support Achieve Hartford! was founded in said Senator Andres Ayala. “This addi- gic planning process Achieve Hart- tional support has opened so many doors provided by the state to strengthen pre- ford!’s vision has become more clear. It 2008 by the business community to for students who may have otherwise Kindergarten programs, extend instruc- was discovered that the organization build a culture of education excel- struggled to complete their educations. I tional time for students, expand needed to create more urgency to im- lence among families, communities, thank Governor Malloy for his contin- professional development opportunities prove the educational and economic and schools in Connecticut’s capital ued commitment to improving Bridge- for educators, and more directly engage wellbeing of children and families in city. As an education advocacy or- port’s schools.” families in the children’s education. “A central part of our effort to im- The Alliance District program was Hartford. ganization, Achieve Hartford!, serves more than 23,000 students prove public education is to make sure established in 2012 when Governor Mal- The next logical step for the or- that districts that need the most help are loy signed Public Act 12-116, An Act and families throughout the city. ganization was to create a brand iden- getting the extra support they need, and Concerning Educational Reform, into tity that reflects its new value Through conducting independent that’s exactly what the Alliance District law. In total, the Alliance Districts serve proposition that includes not only its research, evaluation, and engaging programs does,” Governor Malloy said. over 200,000 students and 410 schools. tag line, “Strong Schools, Strong City,” the community, Achieve Hartford! “With this additional funding, districts Over the course of the year, the but a website and multimedia collater- creates urgency and shared respon- are doing everything from focusing on state supports the districts’ implementa- als. sibility for closing the educational early literacy to adding full-day kinder- tion by providing technical assistance to garten. It’s a huge step forward, one that “Achieve Hartford!’s new strate- achievement gap in Hartford. help problem-solve if challenges arise is led at local level to the benefit of every and by tracking key indicators like gic plan puts the focus of our efforts di- child in that district.” Visit achievehartford.org. chronic absenteeism and disciplinary ac- rectly on student outcomes, and pushes The increased financial investment us to convene business, university, K- tions. The department’s Turnaround Of- Join us on Facebook at is tied to greater accountability for how 12 education and the community to this funding is spent. A true state-district fice also convenes the 30 Alliance www.facebook.com/AchieveHartford. make significant, measurable partnership, the Alliance District pro- Districts on a quarterly basis to analyze progress. We ask the community to gram requires an annual submission of district performance and to provide the Follow us on Twitter at opportunity for collaboration with other hold us accountable,” said Eric Daniels, turnaround plan amendments for ap- www.twitter.com/AchieveHartford. proval from the state. districts. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 25
african american point of view page twenty-five october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY POLITICAL HAPPENINGS - NEW HAVEN COMMUNITY INFORMATION - CONNECTICUT “Colored Women as Voters” F.T. Simpson-Waverly School By Arlene Davis-Rudd n my continued Adequate school facilities in city, and PTO, Farmington Valley quest to bring village, and plantation districts greatly Chapter of the Links to Present Iforth our history concern the black mother. But without a from “back in the voice she has no choice in educational day,” I discovered a legislation, and no power to see that her Community Health Fair most provocative ar- children secure their share of public ticle that should be school funds. By Geneva Williams of great interest to Negro parents admit that their own make meaningful choices about their in- Arlene Davis-Rudd our women of color, children are not all angels, but they know dividual and familial health. This com- and others who that the environments which they are munity health fair will demonstrate that make up most of our devoted readership. hopeless to regulate, increase misde- young and old embrace good nutrition The article, “Colored Women As meanor and crime. They know, too, that and home safety. It will show that our Voters,” first appeared in the September officers, as a rule, recognize few obliga- community chooses health and wellness 1912 issue of THE CRISIS, the tions to voteless citizens. over sugar and smoking!” NAACP’S informational news magazine. Not only is the colored woman Here are excerpts chosen from that amaz- awake with reforms that may be hastened The fair will provide children and ing and profound article written over 100 by good legislation and wise administra- Theme — “Healthy their families information on a wide years ago, before women were given the tion, but where she has the ballot she is Families Make Healthy range of health issues, along with finan- right to vote. reported as using it for the uplift of soci- cial information on home ownership, fi- “More and more colored women are ety and for the advancement of the state. Communities” nancial planning for college; safety issues studying public questions and civics. As In various states, the colored such as fire prevention and safety, emer- they gain information and have experi- woman bore her part creditably in the artford, Conn: — The F.T. Simp- gency preparedness, injury prevention; ence in their daily vocations, and in their campaign for equal suffrage and also with son-Waverly School, in partner- and scouting. efforts for human betterment, they are commendable patriotism in the recent Hship with the Farmington Valley Health issues covered include af- convinced, as many other women have presidential nomination campaign.” Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, will fordable nutrition; oral and dental screen- long ago been convinced, that their efforts At that time, a number of colored present its Fourth Annual Community ings; healthy homes; diabetes and would be more telling if women had the women were active members of the Na- Health Fair on Saturday, October 4, diabetes prevention; cancer awareness; right to vote. tional Women’s Suffrage Association. from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the F.T. Simp- The fashion of saying “I do not care They were well- informed and diligent in son Waverly School, located at 55 Wa- skin care; organ donation; eye examina- to meddle with politics,” is disappearing the spread of propaganda. ‘Women who verly Street in Hartford. The theme for tions; prostrate screening; clinical beast among the colored woman faster than saw that they needed the vote saw also the fair is “Healthy Families Make examinations; blood pressure and glucose most people think, for this same woman that the vote needed them.’ Healthy Communities!” level testing; and anti-smoking informa- has learned that politics meddle con- History has taught us that, “Passed Kimberly Oliver, director of the tion; mammograms, which require pre- stantly with her and hers. by Congress on June 4th, 1919, and rati- Hartford Opportunity Youth Collabora- Good women try always to do good fied on August 18th, 1920, the 19th registration by calling (860) 545-1243; tive and radio personality at W.Q.T.Q housekeeping. Building inspectors, sani- Amendment to the Constitution of the flu shots, (which will be covered by all (89.9-FM), will serve as host at the health tary inspectors and food inspectors owe United States of America guarantees all insurance including Medicaid; if no in- fair. The public is invited. Admission is their positions to politics. Who, then, is American women the right to vote.” surance, flu shots and mammograms free! so well-informed as to how these inspec- Remember, colored women were are free!); CPR training; medication re- Complimentary healthy snacks and tors perform their duties as the women included in that right to vote. Let us view by on-site pharmacist; pre-natal refreshments will be provided. Children who live in inspected districts and in- show the world how much we value care; and family planning, including be- spected houses, and who buy food in in- that right by getting out to vote on No- will enjoy arts and crafts, storytelling, havioral health information and referrals. spected markets? vember 4th. This is a must! ■ and face painting, along with ample give- aways; the first 30 children will be pre- At noon, the fair will also feature a LEWINS BOUTIQUE sented free bicycle helmets! forum on heart health titled, “Ask The Scitico Plaza Enfield, Ct /585 HAZARD AVE. (Rt. 190) “In many urban communities, resi- Cardiologist: The Secret to A Healthy Exit 47E off I-91, 3.25 miles from the first McDonalds dents find it easier to enjoy high fructose www.lewinsboutique.com Heart.” Dr. Anita M. Kelsey, the corn syrup and nicotine than fresh veg- renowned director of echocardiograph; 860*749*2877 etables and whole grains,” said Lean- medical director of Hoffman Heart PRODUCTS: SERVICES: dardo Watson, principal at the F.T School and Cardiac ultrasound; and di- Mother of Bride and Groom gowns Dress making Simpson-Waverly School. “Children rector of the Phillips Women’s Heart Pro- Bridesmaid-orders of 5 or more, hems are free! Expert Alterations available prove vulnerable to poor nutrition, and Prom gowns Homecomings Shoe dying are often exposed to environmental pol- gram at Saint Francis Hospital and Pageants Quinceñeras Professional Bra fittings lutants that damage their developing bod- Medical Center, will lead the discussion. Sweet sixteens Eastern Star Tuxedo Rental For more information on the fair, Social occasions ies. However, armed with healthy We specialize in Plus and Petite sizes "Personal service is our style" lifestyle information, Hartford’s parents, call (860) 965-3532 or email: Always a sale on in stock samples children, and community members can [email protected]. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 26
african american point of view page twenty-six october 1, 2014 EDITORIAL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK FOR GOVERNOR: MAY THE BEST WO(MAN) WIN By Frederick A. Hurst
OF VIEW I am for Charlie Baker for Gover- pect that the “HNIC” concept won’t be governor than Charlie Baker but she Frederick A. Hurst MY POINT nor. And for good reason. I don’t think govern his relations with a diverse is a woman who is as qualified. And a it will make a lot of a difference, more African-American community as has lot of men in Massachusetts have been ell, here we go again. It is or less, whether our next governor is been the case with Democrats in Mas- elected governor and no women. It’s a testimony to the old adage Charlie Baker or Martha Coakley. The sachusetts for the last 50 years. (For a sad fact, given that women’s right to that one should not be in W predominant Democratic legislature definition of “HNIC,” White folks vote is almost a century old. And al- business with family, especially not will continue to set the Massachusetts should consult their local “HNIC.”) though it is a morally unacceptable fact, with one’s wife. Point of View is com- government agenda, which will con- My big problem, though, is that especially in so-called liberal Massa- mitted to endorsing political candidates, tinue to be pretty much left of center but my editor won’t bend to my wishes. chusetts, it is, in my mind, politically ir- especially the top tier candidates. Our middle of the road. I’m focused on the Notice I didn’t say “bend to my will.” relevant to current circumstances. rule is to follow candidates in the news, little stuff. Generally speaking, in my We are both strong-willed so if I make But, right or wrong, my editor is watch what they do, meet with them opinion, this all-Democratic line up it a clash of wills, divorce might follow. in a “feminine-seize-the-moment” state and decide who to endorse. We try to doesn’t work so well. And balance, But to get to the point, my editor of mind. And although I support Charlie make decisions as a committee but in however small, is desirable. A Republi- is fully committed to Martha Coakley. Baker for governor of Massachusetts, I the final analysis, if there is no conflu- can governor will, at least, be able to She structures her commitment in logic don’t sleep with him and I’m not going ence of opinion, the publisher gets the challenge the Democratic status quo as witnessed in her recent article (Point to risk my marital rites for a vote. So we final say. and might temper some of the excesses of View, August 1, 2014). But bottom are going to split this one. I’m for Char- “We,” by the way, is me, the pub- and reverse some of the omissions. And line her commitment to Martha Coakley lie Baker and my editor is for Martha lisher, and Marjorie Hurst, the editor, even though a Republican governor is also understandably emotional. Coakley and may the best wo(man) who also is my wife. may never speak to me, I can at least ex- Martha Coakley is no more qualified to win. ■
fluenced by the leakage of informa- victim even if the alleged thuggery is tion that suggests the Black victim, unrelated to the shooting. And they AF-AM NEWS bits Michael Brown, who was shot six are even extending the logic to the By Frederick A. Hurst times by a White police officer while Black witnesses to the murder. Of WHAT THE GHETTO thrall of addiction, those dangers in- his hands were extended in surrender, course, they didn’t anticipate the re- GURU ALWAYS KNEW tensify.” (By Jack Cole, a retired New was a thug with a felony rap sheet. cent testimony of two White wit- Jersey State Police narcotics detec- Even though the White cop fired at nesses who were recorded on camera …my experience has shown me least 11 shots at the unarmed 18 year expressing outrage at the shooting of that it is futile, counterproductive, tive, Boston Sunday Globe, August “ old, the officer’s protectors know that the unarmed, arm-raised Brown. Sad and dangerous to try to arrest our way 24, 2014) most White folks are conditioned to to say, the discovery of White wit- out of this very real problem WE WON ONE condone the murder of Black men by nesses has tipped the scales against (drugs)….Heroin’s status as a Sched- cops if they can raise the slightest in- the White police officer. I guess that’s ule I illegal drug has ceded its control he suburban Detroit White home- sinuation of thuggery by the Black American justice at work. ■ and distribution to the most un- Towner who shot and killed a 19- scrupulous and unregulated players year-old Black woman who came to among us with the predictably tragic his door seeking help after a car acci- LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER results. Prohibition has completely dent was found guilty and sentenced failed to curb either supply or de- to 17 years for manslaughter. One hank you for acknowledging our Program Chairman, J. Jay Griffin mand for opiates. It has not only down but so many more to go. as the recipient of the Ubora Award (“Congratulations Corner,” POV, failed to protect our young and vul- T August 1st issue). The Point of View is very essential in the community and nerable, but also cost many of their WE MIGHT WIN lives – deaths from heroin overdose ANOTHER ONE city. alone have increased nine fold since ou might not understand the Thanks again and may God bless! the drug war began. The whole fam- Ygame the Ferguson, Missouri ily of opiates is dangerous, seductive, police and prosecutor are playing. It’s Stone Soul Committee (7/31/2014) and addictive under the best of cir- old school. They’re going after the cumstances, but when the circum- jury pool which will assuredly be pre- Letters to the Publisher and other content MUST stances are defined by a destabilizing dominantly White and, they believe, be sent electronically to: [email protected] cat-and-mouse game for those in the sufficiently racially biased to be in- (Please reference a subject matter or e-mail is automatically deleted.) POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 27
african american point of view page twenty-seven october 1, 2014 OP - ED MIKE HEFFERNAN DEB GOLDBERG For Treasurer For Treasurer lion in 5 years while state aid to cities facing women, children and families. I and towns is down by 40 percent. We was elected a Selectman in my commu- are considered one of the most indebted nity and became Chair. I was a Founder states in the U.S., making us vulnerable and Treasurer of a school for kids with to an economic slowdown. Statewide, severe cognitive disabilities. I am an job growth is stagnant with 60 commu- Advisor at The Greater Boston Food nities in Massachusetts still grappling Bank. with high unemployment. We rank only But it is as President of an adop- 45th in job creation. Beacon Hill has tion agency that I have learned the defunded our pension system from 84 most. My two wonderful children are cents on the dollar to 60, putting the en- adopted. Through them I have learned, tire system at risk and rated as failing deep inside of me, that we can change by the Urban Institute. Our rates of lives forever. Today both my children homelessness are climbing. Two thou- sand Massachusetts families live in mo- have chosen paths where they are mak- Mike Heffernan Deb Goldberg tels far from their communities. ing a difference too. learned to appreciate not only the This election is not about Democ- rom the time I was a small child I am running for Treasurer to give value of a dollar but the value of ed- rat or Republican; it is about a change I learned that everything in life every woman, man, family the finan- Iucation, hard work, faith and com- in leadership. Our problems have Fis opportunity. Economic em- cial power they need to get ahead in passion for others from my family. My grown too large to be tackled by gov- powerment, economic security, eco- today’s tough economy. The Treas- grandfather earned his U.S. citizenship ernment alone. We must marry business nomic stability are not just buzzwords, urer’s job is running a large office with by enlisting in the army during WW I. sector experience with public sector in- but a personal mission for me and my many departments. And I can do that My grandmother was a maid. My dad, job. But I will also be a Treasurer who stitutions to meet these challenges. whole family. a public school teacher, was the first in Only then will we deliver the resources invests in people. I was raised understanding the im- his family to go to college. My mom of our Commonwealth to those that We will put a laser focus on cre- portance of community, beginning with worked nights to make a better life for need it most. ating a statewide financial literacy pro- my mother’s great grandmother. Yente her four kids. What happens in the greater gram, insuring people don’t fall victim came, with her 11 children, to the North I worked my way through Springfield area is personal to me. My again to a mortgage crisis or go into se- End of Boston and opened a small gro- Georgetown University, studying eco- wife grew up here. Her family is very rious debt to pay for college. We will cery store. Every friend or relative who nomics, then through NYU earning an active in the community. Too many provide free tax preparation for low-in- arrived was given a job and a roof over MBA in finance. I would spend the statewide candidates campaign in West- come families, so they don’t rely on next twenty-five years in banking with ern Mass but do not serve Western their heads. Those families worked to- companies that promise fast cash in- leadership roles at Salomon Brothers Mass. I will invest in its future. gether growing the food business, stead of refunds they have worked so and Citigroup, doing first hand what the I am the only candidate for Treas- which eventually became Stop and hard for. state treasurer does, working with urer supporting the MGM Springfield Shop. money and investing wisely. In recent casino plan. I am the only candidate We will create a college savings Stop and Shop was a company plan for kindergarteners at no cost to years I helped start two small compa- promising to bring 1 billion dollars of where thousands of hardworking fam- nies, creating jobs here in Massachu- small business capital into the areas of taxpayers. Research shows that a kid ilies for generations could have good setts. the state, like the Pioneer Valley, that with college savings is seven times paying union jobs and build careers Along the way I never forgot the need it most. State aid to Springfield more likely to go to college. And, to Jesuit creed “in service to others.” I has been cut dramatically, over 20 mil- with excellent benefits. I worked there make sure we create a level playing have served on numerous charitable lion dollars in just the past five years. I as a retail clerk in Local 1445 then later field, I know where we must boards both locally and at my college. will work to bring state money back to on as an executive after college, after begin. Wage equality. This is not just a I have been caregiver to my parents, Springfield. getting my law degree from Boston women’s issue. It is a family issue! giving back to them, in small part, the My children attend Massachusetts College, and my MBA from Harvard. I have the skills to do the job of love and sacrifice they unselfishly gave public schools. Public education and fi- At the same time every one of us was Treasurer but also the values, passion, me. Wanting to do more, I went back to nancial literacy are the best tools we involved in the community, in politics, and commitment to make a difference school at the age of 50, earning a Mas- have for creating lasting opportunity. at non-profits; we were activists. in people’s lives. Yes, economic em- ters degree from Harvard’s Kennedy Every child deserves a great education Then Stop and Shop went through powerment, security, and stability are School, preparing me for public serv- provided in a modern, connected a takeover and I saw a very different not just buzzwords, they are my per- ice. school building. Let’s not just close the corporate model, not one I could live sonal mission! I am running for Treasurer to re- education gap, let’s close the skills gap, with. I turned to public service bringing It would be an honor to be your alize the tremendous untapped potential allowing affordable education to trans- my business and finance skills to issues Treasurer. ■ we have across the Commonwealth. late into job security and economic se- Through the lens of my business expe- curity. rience, I recognize the significant chal- As Treasurer I will invest the OP - ED lenges before us. state’s resources in all of our people, re- CONTINUES TO PAGE 33 State tax revenues are up $6 bil- gardless of zip code. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 28
african american point of view page twenty-eight october 1, 2014 RELIGION RELIGIOUS POINT OF VIEW Dr. Atu White, Editor, Pastors, Ministers, Professors and Theologians, please submit your serves as Pastor of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, articles for this page to Rev. Dr. Atu White at [email protected] 368 Bay Street, Springfield, MA and as Second Vice Alden Baptist Church President of the United We Need Justice Baptist Convention of Mas- By Rev. Dr. Atu White 649 State Street sachusetts, Rhode Island, Springfield, MA 01109 and New Hampshire. proximately 33% of the world’s popula- oppressive system of her day. Perhaps, 413-788-9910 [email protected] tion affirms Jesus as the Messiah. The this widow was not a figment of Jesus’ Sunday School Luke 18:1-5 (NLT): church has multiplied its followers since imagination, but a living legend whose 9:00 a.m. Sunday Morning One day Jesus told his disciples a story the 120 gathered in the upper room. story he wanted to highlight. Worship Service to show that they should always pray and Sadly, the Church’s answer to diffi- She sought justice in the dispute 10:00 a.m. never give up. (2) “There was a judge in cult situations and injustices is to advo- with her enemy. She demanded the eyes Prayer Service a certain city,” he said, “who neither cate more Jesus versus advocating for of the law view her as a human being and Monday - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday feared God nor cared about people. (3) A justice. I contend the world does not suf- not a widow. This bold woman persisted Rev. J. Willard Noon & 6:00 p.m. widow of that city came to him repeat- fer from the lack of Jesus, but it suffers for fair treatment. She was not suggesting Cofield, Jr., Pastor Bible Study edly, saying, ‘Give me justice in this dis- from the startling silence of His follow- that life is fair. She did not seek special Rev. Karen Rucks, Monday & Associate Minister pute with my enemy.’ (4) The judge ers. Our silence perpetuates injustice. Re- privileges. She did not ask the judge to Wednesday “We believe God has 7:00 p.m. ignored her for a while, but finally he gardless of who you are, justice suggests side with her, but she persisted daily for called us to be a vital fair treatment. justice. sign of faith at work in Youth Ministry said to himself, ‘I don’t fear God or care the community. This Friday about people, (5) but this woman is driv- As Christians, we cannot afford to The widow created her own move- vision is actualized through our Ministries.” 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. ing me crazy. I’m going to see that she continue cultural norms, institutional bi- ment. If she received justice, it might ig- gets justice, because she is wearing me ases, and economic oppression and nite and inspire other widows to not sulk out with her constant requests!’” greed, but we have an imperative to ad- in their predicament, but to demand jus- BETHEL AFRICAN vocate for justice. Christians have been tice also. Each of us is responsible for METHODIST EPISCOPAL pproximately 78% of Americans complicit waiting on the sweet bye-and- challenging oppressive systems, even if CHURCH declare Jesus as their Lord and bye, while the oppressed continues to we personally do not identify with them. 27 Pendleton Avenue ASavior. We have Jesus. We have suffer from the lack of justice. Some have Christians cannot remain silent. We have Springfield, MA 01109 the freedom to practice our religion, to inverted this parable by saying, “Give me to be diligent in our persistence. (413) 734-7611 Rev. Angelo S. Dawson, organize denominations, and to worship Jesus, and later for justice.” Christians We have Jesus, but we also need Pastor freely any day of the week. We require should unite for the sake of justice. Justice in every region of this country Rev. Donald A. Thomas, politicians to announce their faith, their Jesus tells the story of a persistent and the world. Associate Minister loyalties to Christ, and their devotion to widow who refused to hide behind reli- Rev. Amelia Eddy, hot button topics. We have Jesus. Ap- gious platitudes and she challenged the [To be continued…] ■ Associate Minister James D. Bullock, Minister of Music A TRUE RENAISSANCE MAN Pastor’s Bible Sunday Morning By Marjorie J. Hurst Study Divine Worship Sunday 8:50 am 10:00 am recently at- ing whenever he saw you. That smile He was a talented musician and Church School Bible Study/Prayer & tended the was so much a part of him that his sister- Class Meeting composer and excelled as an athlete and Saturday 11:00 am Ifuneral of in-law, Rev. Jacquelyn Randall, com- a scholar. He belonged to the Hartford Wednesday 7:00 pm my cousin mented during his eulogy that if we just Jazz Society and was inducted into the Helen’s hus- remember to smile when we encounter Norwich Free Academy, Thames Ath- band, Dr. Lewis people, we would be honoring Lew’s New Life Calvary letic and American International College Dr. Lewis Everett Everett Randall, memory. I’ve been doing just that. Baptist Church Randall Sr. It was a Lew was a man of service who had Halls of Fame. He played football, bas- August 27, 1937 A NEW poignant time ties to both Springfield and Connecticut ketball, tennis and baseball, having A N September 12, 2014 as many of us as evidenced by the organizations of played minor league baseball for the BEGINNING Cleveland Indians and Washington Sen- sat and reflected on our special memories which he was a member. He belonged to Sunday School of Lew as photographs of his life played the Springfield chapters of Alpha Phi ators. The town of Norwich, CT recog- 9:00 AM on the screen at the front of the sanctu- Alpha Fraternity and Sigma Pi Phi nized his lifelong achievements by Morning Worship ary. My special memory was of the time Boulé. He was an Elder in the Eastern presenting him with their Native Son Service 10:00 AM Lew asked me to dance at a Squire’s hol- Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut. Award. Rev. Jesse E. iday party. Lew was such a smooth And the tributes paid to him by these Prayer/Bible Study But above all, it was abundantly Williams Sr., dancer that he made me look good as ef- three groups were heartwarming, making Wednesday clear that Lew loved his family and they Pastor/Teacher fortlessly as only my husband can. it clear that Lew wasn’t just a member, 6:00 & 7:00 PM Lew was a man of character, firm he was a contributor, and a significant in turn loved him; and although he will 981 Wilbraham Road Spring- but quiet, eschewing emotion over facts, one at that. And these three were just the be missed, his life was truly the epitome field, MA 01109 caring, never bragging about his many tip of the iceberg, as he served on many of a life well lived. He was a true Ren- (413) 796-1600 accomplishments. He had a way of smil- boards as well. aissance man. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 29
african american point of view page twenty-nine october 1, 2014 RELIGIOUS DIRECTORY PROGRESSIVE g{|Üw UtÑà|áà V{âÜv{ COMMUNITY BAPTIST 149 Walnut Street CHURCH P.O. Box 91166 Springfield, MA 01139 599 State Street 413-734-4143 Springfield, Massachusetts Join us for our Worship Services (413) 736-8844 Sunday School Sunday Worship Service “A Church Determined To Follow Christ” Reverend Nathaniel 9:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Smith, Sr., Pastor Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Thursday 6:00 p.m. Âg{x YÜ|xÇwÄç V{âÜv{Ê f|Çvx DKIL Rev. Joe C. Where all who enter may be blessed Long Jr., Pastor
Sunday Worship - 10:00 a.m. Sunday Bible School - 9:00 a.m. Bible Study - Wednesday - 6:30 p.m.
ÂT W|äxÜáx cxÉÑÄx ã{É tÜx Shiloh Seventh-Day bÇx ÉÇ fÉÄÉÅÉÇËá cÉÜà|vÉÊ Adventist Church 797 State St., Springfield, MA 413-734-0103 [email protected] Sabbath School 9:00a.m. Sabbath Services: Canaan Baptist Acts 5:12b (Saturdays) Sunday Worship— 10:45 AM Divine Worship Church of Christ Sunday School— 9:00 AM 11:00a.m. 1430 Carew Street Tuesday— Book Club — 7:00PM Adventist Youth Services Wednesday—“Noonday Hour of Power” — 6:00pm Springfield, MA 01104 With Lunch Adventist 413-739-5053 Thursday— Live Bible Study — 7:00PM Community Service Dr. Walton H. Mondays & Tuesdays Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper Rose, Pastor Rev. Dr. W. C. Sundays First Sunday— 4:00PM 10:00a.m. — 1:00p.m. Sunday School (all ages) ------9:15a.m. Watson, Jr., Pastor 17 John Street, Springfield, MA 01104 Prayer Meeting Morning Worship Service ----10:45a.m. (413) 737-9583 The Church Wednesdays Church Life Wednesdays In The Heart 7:00p.m. Dr. Mark E. Flowers, Senior Pastor Worship, Prayer, Mid-day Prayer & Praise--12:00-1:00p.m. of The City Church School (SSAJA) Praise & Study Bible Study ------7:00 p.m. Mountcalvarybaptistchurchspringfield.org Monday — Friday Wesley United Methodist Church Solid Rock Community Baptist Church “Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors.” 821 Liberty Street, Springfield, MA 01104 741 State Street Telephone (413) 734-5441 Sunday School — 9:00AM Springfield, MA 01109 Fax (413) 734-5438 Sunday Service — 11:00AM 413-734-3233 Transportation (413) 575-4035 Monday—Thursday Office & Fax (Noon Day Prayer) : catharine.cummings Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am Tuesday Bible Study : PastorCatharine 7:00PM Weekly Bible Study/Prayer Service Tuesday 7:00 pm Pastor Ricky E. Bowens / Co-Pastor Linda Bowens Friday Night Service Sundays Bishop Curtis L. Shaird, Pastor 413-426-2825/413-285-4631 Pastor Rev. Catharine 7:00PM Sunday School (all ages) 9:30 a.m. Reverend Harold P. Dixson, Assistant Pastor A. Cummings Morning Worship Service 10:45 a.m. God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son; John 3:16 COMMUNITY JESUS CHRIST ENLIGHTENED BAPTIST CHURCH CHRISTIAN BIBLE SEMINARY "A People being transformed by God to shine ACCREDITED This Space is Available God's Light of Love, Justice, and Hope" P.O. Box 90294 143 Shelton Avenue Springfield, MA 01139 for your AD New Haven, CT 06511 (413) 309 - 8456 (203) 562-7060 Worship Service: Fridays 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Call: 413-796-1500 Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Senior Pastor Rev. Bible Study Wednesdays: Timothy L. Jones 12:00 noon and 6:30 p.m. Contact Bishop Emanuel Brown, President POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 30
african american point of view page thirty october 1, 2014 THE ARTS CHILDREN’S BOOK CORNER PEN & INK “Ripley’s Believe It or Not! BRENDA’S CHILD has made it her life’s mission to inspire people through poetry and stories and through leading by example with Reality Shock!” courage, confidence, and integrity. In April 2007, she self-published her first book of poetry, “A Piece of My Mind...Poetic Confessions of c.2014, Ripley Publishing $28.95 / $32.95 Canada 256 pages a Self-Proclaimed Diva.” Since then she has published four more titles. Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer For more information, email: [email protected] The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old Why “Truth Tastes Better and she never goes anywhere without a book. with a Side of Rhyme” She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs May be My Definitive Work and 11,000 books. By Brenda’s Child Raise your fingers high. hen I self-published my hat’s what you’ll be doing this first book, A Piece of My school year, because you’ve WMind, back in 2007, I was Tbeen practicing. You’ll be the afraid to offend so I carefully chose fastest hand-raiser in the entire school, which poems to include. I wanted my fingers pointed at the ceiling, ready to material to be appropriate for both answer any question the teacher throws teenagers and adults, so I avoided your way. You know things, and you’re taboo topics and what might be seen going to prove it with a sky-high hand, rickety wooden sidewalks on the face as offensive language. Two years fingers pointing up. of a sheer cliff; pictures of sneezes; later, with plenty of poems still in my So how do you get to be so smart? chewing gum portraits; or South head, and a bit more experience in You’ve got “Ripley’s Believe It or African games that involve spitting an- spoken word performance, I held Not! Reality Shock!” and that helps a telope poop. nothing back with the release, Out- bunch. He might have personally seen spoken…Poetry for the Bold. I had rainbow trees in Hawaii, rainbow wa- Robert Ripley was one of those grown gutsy and I needed to vent. I terfalls in British Columbia, or rainbow people with “true star quality.” Every- had fallen in love and wanted to mountains in China years ago. body, it seemed, knew who he was, and share. I had become comfortable You can see them in this book they all loved him ― maybe because he with being a woman, and I wanted to now. very first page. Each thematic chap- had a “multitude of dazzling achieve- flaunt it. I took off the filter, and to Ripley also liked things that were ter starts with a quote by those ments” that he enjoyed sharing with the this day, I still get a little abashed outside of normal, like the world’s who’ve been influential in my life, world. when an elder flips through the book shortest lady, the tallest man (who also from Mary McLeod Bethune to Ripley, you see, liked to travel and and opens to the last chapter. has the biggest hands), the largest waist Tupac Shakur. With Black Pride and he liked weird, unusual things. After a five years, seven publi- and hips, the biggest foot, the longest Femininity at its core, this book is the Nowhere was too remote for him to go, cations and a thousand more mo- tongue, tattooed people, and the longest artistic expression of my desire to be and nothing was too dangerous. The ments of inspiration, I felt the time fingernails. a voice for those who are often un- novelties he collected simply astounded And, by the way, how does some- had come to create another anthol- heard. Truth… is official announce- people almost a hundred years ago; one live with long fingernails? ogy. Truth Tastes Better with a Side ment that I am ready to take my place today, you can see some of the items he The answer to that is in this book, of Rhyme is still written with the as a word warrior, championing might have gathered in this book. believe it or not… same rawness and vulnerability ex- change though rhythmic flow. Things, for instance, that are In the first few pages of “Ripley’s pected from any Brenda’s Child po- Truth Tastes Better with a Side creepy, like spiders and alligators that Believe It or Not! Reality Shock!” the etry collection, but this time around, of Rhyme and all titles by Brenda’s lurk beneath beds, squirrels that make authors promise readers that “every- maturity, empathy, and a whole new Child are available on Amazon.com knots with their tails (accidentally, for thing in this book is definitely true…” consciousness are apparent from the and www.brendaschild sure!), and snakes that curl up in piles For parents and grandparents, that’s re- this book is filled with everything a kid greatness, I can’t imagine any kid age with other snakes. Ripley would have ally good news: ever since we were liked jeweled skulls, color-changing could want: disgustingly fascinating 12-and-up who wouldn’t like to page kids, Ripley’s stories have been based full-color pictures, quick anecdotes to through this book. Leave “Ripley’s frogs, monster fish, and a bug that on authenticity and that hasn’t changed share with friends, entries to astound, Believe It or Not! Reality Shock!” looks like he’s wearing fiber optics. ― it just gets weirder for the next gen- and superlatives that could spark cre- lying around the house, and I think Ripley liked oddities, too: names eration of readers to enjoy. that are super-long or made up of silly And enjoy it they will, because ativity. even reluctant readers will want to get words; “death zones” on mountains; Packed as it is with that kind of their fingers on it. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 31
african american point of view page thirty-one october 1, 2014 THE ARTS LIVING PEN & INK LIFE’S CHALLENGES JUANITA TORRENCE-THOMPSON: Pushcart nominee. Published fiction, chil- dren’s stories, feature articles, hundreds of her award-winning poems in dozens of U.S. Narcissism vs. Humility and international journals, 12 anthologies, 7 books including her Talking With Stanley Kunitz (2012). Writes print & online newspaper poetry columns; produces poetry salons By Dr. Sweets H. Wilson and reads internationally. Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of acclaimed 30-year-old Mo- an expert at many different things. If bius, The Poetry Magazine. Her poetry is translated into 15 foreign languages. Talking Dr. Sweets S. Wilson is a With Stanley Kunitz and New York and African Tapestries were best pick by Small Christian life purpose you are part of an organization with a Press Review. Mobius, The Poetry Magazine, best pick 2007 thru 2012 www.poetry- coach, motivational leader exhibiting such characteristics, town.com speaker and CEO of you have a problem. However, narcis- Inspire ME, LLC. sism is not a fair label to apply to any About My Friend, Yala Korwin wilson.sweets@ gmail.com or person who thinks differently and has By Juanita Torrence-Thompson 860-869-8067 the courage to assert or act on their convictions. met Yala through the Fresh Meadows Poets in Queens, New York, and soon FROM HARTFORD, Humility, on the other hand, is the learned she was a holocaust survivor from Lvov, Poland with an incredible CONNECTICUT quality that lets us go more than I*story. Besides being a talented writer and poet, she was also a gifted painter, here are many books, articles sculptor and teacher. In fact, I purchased a few of her paintings and one day when halfway to meet the needs and demand and studies that warn us of the I visited her, she presented me with her small, beautiful sculpture of a woman in a of others. Resolve to work on your own dangers of not exercising humil- flowing blue gown. I was touched. T humility and you will begin to notice ity. Humility is not hospitality, courtesy Since we lived in the same neighborhood, we exchanged names of electri- and appreciate its power all around or a kind and friendly demeanor. Hu- cians, plumbers, snow shovelers. Whenever I visited Yala, she told me about the you. Humility as a virtue is a major latest book she was reading. I used to think, “Oh to be that free to have time to mility has nothing to do with being theme of both the Old and New Testa- read novels or more non-fiction books.” I only had time to read poetry books due meek, weak or indecisive. Perhaps to the length. more surprising, it does not entail shun- ments. Why do qualities such as cour- Yala and I talked about many things including world affairs, politics, litera- ning publicity. Humility or humbleness tesy, patience and deference have such ture, poetry. I took her to an Italian restaurant for dinner one summer night and is a quality of being courteously re- a prominent place in the Bible? It is be- she said, a bit misty eyed, “I told my son I was having dinner with a famous editor.” spectful of others. It is the opposite of cause a demeanor of humility is exactly Then it was I who became misty eyed to know she held me in such high esteem. aggressiveness, arrogance, boastfulness what is needed to live in peace and har- Knowing Yala loved literature, I told her my husband and I attended the an- and vanity. Narcissism, on the other mony with all persons. Humility dissi- nual Queens College Reading series of famous poets and writers. She was inter- hand, is an exaggerated sense of one’s pates anger and heals old wounds. ested so the next season we ordered three season tickets and I picked Yala up and own abilities and achievements with a Humility allows us to see the dignity drove her home after the program. Well, she was so elated, it was as if she had constant need for attention, affirmation won the lottery! and worth of all God’s people. Humil- and praise. ity distinguishes the wise leader from Moreover, I had great respect for Yala. This woman had overcome great odds Fame is equated with success and in Poland and eventually married and found her way to the United States via Paris, the arrogant power seeker. Here are being self-referential has become the France. Still, Yala had a wonderful perceptive view of life and was a gold mine of some suggestions for identifying if you norm. We are encouraged to pump our- knowledge. Incidentally, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a master’s degree are humble: from Queens College. selves full of alarming self-confidence. A serious problem can emerge when Now when I drive near her block, I look to my left and realize I will not have ● Embrace and promote a spirit afternoon tea anymore with Yala. I will not read my latest poem to her and we will forceful individuals intermingle narcis- of service not discuss the joys of life and the problems of the world again. sistic tendencies, resulting in persons behaving in a self-absorbed way; psy- ● Are passionately curious *(To Tell the Story: Poems of the Holocaust” by Yala Korwin) chologists have known narcissism to be ● Resist falling for your own a formal personality disorder for some publicity LATIN@ GROOVE and a real impediment to their forming ● Know what you do not know healthy relationships. ● Listen, even to the weird ideas Unity Is An Unlocked Door Friendships and marriages are dis- mutually beneficial partnerships, even ● Never underestimate the continued from page 17 solved over angry words. Resentments competition vacuum; they evolve from an insidious in the most unexpected places. divide families and co-workers. Preju- corruption that begins in our most Yes, we must nurture the mind dices separate race from race and reli- Acting with humility does not in thoughtless daily actions, to the most and spirit among the people and culture gion from religion. Reputations are any way deny our own self-worth. vile exploitations of all that lives by with which we are most familiar. We destroyed by malicious gossip. Greed Rather, it affirms the inherent worth of those who value profit over life itself. must adamantly protect cultural mem- puts enmity between rich and poor. The term “Police Brutality” implies an ory and be intractable sentinels of truth Wars are fought over arrogant asser- all persons. Some would consider hu- expected behavior; “The Brutality of in history as we fight for justice. If we tions. The narcissist lacks self-aware- mility to be a psychological malady Police” allows the possibility that not are consumed by the arrogance and ness and empathy and is often that interferes with success. However, every officer is a hater. In creating “us” weakness of “I am not you,” we are de- hypersensitive to criticism or perceived wealth, power or status gained at the and “them” we contribute to our loss of pleted of the power and dignity of the insults. The individual frequently exag- expense of others brings only anxiety, empathy and obviate possibilities for simplest “I am.” ■ gerates contributions and claims to be never peace and love. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 32
african american point of view page thirty-two october 1, 2014 FOOD TALK URBAN GARDENING THE URBAN COOK I Love New England! Excuse Me By Zaida Govan By Rhonda Jones The leaves are turning to create an establishment since the music was blar- Zaida Govan is a native of Springfield via Puerto amazing work of art in nature this time ing and his accent was strong. I thought Rico with a passion for of year. Everyone is getting ready to Rhonda Jones is a I heard him say $60.00 but my mind improving the community begin their winter semi-hibernation. But Personal Caterer and a said he said $16.00. I said, “Excuse me. she serves. She can be don’t forget the amazing things you can Food Consultant How much did you say?” And he re- reached at 413.301.2533 still do in the fall in New England. The [email protected] peated himself and I said, “You mean or Mason Square Health Task Force will $16.00?” My heart dropped. I replied to [email protected] continue doing its work to improve the him by saying, “You charge $60.00 for overall health of the community; Just rice for 25 people!” e are fully into a great New Food will continue to work to bring a s an experienced cook, I pride What was I to do at this last England autumn. I love the full line grocery store to Mason Square; myself in learning new tech- minute? I wanted to leave the rice but I seasons here in the northeast. W and, of course, our children are into Aniques and different ethnic cui- didn’t have time to make my own or go As a novice gardener, I always thought their full schedule of school. This is a sine. There’s a story coming behind this. elsewhere. I was stuck and bewildered that you put your gardens to rest during great time to get involved in school Last month I was hired to cater a because he not only cheated me but dug these times; however, I am learning that PTO’s, maybe plan a spring garden at small, intimate gathering for 25 people. into my profit. As I drove away from you can plant cold weather crops in late the school or join in whatever fundraiser The menu consisted of fried chicken, this place, I told myself this will never July and even September and eat fresh they may have. There are many good tilapia, green beans, baked beans, rice happen again! I went home and called lettuce, spinach and other cold weather things to do this time of year in New and peas and salad. Now this is an easy my Caribbean friend to teach me how crops right now and sometimes into No- England. Leaf watching is a favorite of menu, all except one dish that I wasn’t to make proper rice and peas. Now, my vember. Many crops that grow well in mine. For me as a gardener, I will be comfortable making. You guessed it― family is sick of eating rice and peas cold weather are low-growing, leafy planting flower bulbs in my flower gar- the rice and peas. Many people say they every week but practice makes perfect. green vegetables. These vegetables, den with the expectation of seeing the grew up eating rice but I grew up on po- which include members of the cabbage many different colors of flowers in the tatoes and maybe had rice once every Rice and Peas and lettuce families, are slow to freeze spring. other month. We never had gravy on 1 pound red kidney beans because of their low-growing habit. In the spring, the Bay Street com- our rice; it was eaten with sugar and 24 ounces vegetable stock They also absorb more energy from the munity garden group will re-convene butter and we always had rice left over 2 lbs white rice sun due to their green color. Crops like and look for another location for our for rice pudding. 8 ounces coconut cream (already cabbage, collard greens, kale and Brus- community garden. With the city’s help, Since I wasn’t comfortable with made in can) sels sprouts are hearty down to 20 de- we will find an empty lot to garden in. my rice and peas skills, I decided to go 1 onion finely diced grees Fahrenheit, according to Oregon We have about eight avid gardeners to a reputable Caribbean restaurant and 1 clove garlic chopped State University. These types of greens who are eager to have our community order some for my event. Let’s face it, Thyme are not what I am used to eating because garden back. This year we did find a Caribbean people have a soft spot for 1 scallion if you know me, you know I don’t eat small piece of land where only two of rice and bean dishes. I went to the 1 scotch bonnet pepper vegetables! I know that sounds funny our gardeners were able to garden. Next restaurant the night before and ordered Salt to taste coming from a gardener, but that is part year we hope to be able to accommo- rice and peas for 25 people and I even of the reason I started gardening. I date all of us and more. I am looking gave them the aluminum pan and top to Soak kidney beans. Place beans and wanted to eat more veggies, in addition forward to a great fall and winter here put the rice in for my pick up the next stock in pot. Boil over medium heat to getting more of a sense of commu- in the city of Springfield. In New Eng- day. My party was at 1pm so I arrived until done. Add rice to bean pot. Add nity―thus I started working on commu- land we tell newcomers that if you don’t to pick up the rice at 12:30. The owner coconut cream, onion, garlic and nity gardens. like the weather, don’t worry, wait a comes out with my rice. I inspected it thyme and the other ingredients. Re- October is a month in New Eng- minute; it will change. I love New Eng- and it was good. I asked him, “How duce heat, cover and allow to cook land that still has farmers markets open. land! ■ much do I owe you?” It was loud in the about another 15 minutes. EDUCATION & HOPE ily without much to offer. Without any many of our youth and families to turn thousands of somebodies who have yet A Somebody hope of competing with the big shiny to gangs and violence and crime to be- to be discovered… promises of a gangster’s life. long. To control. To survive. To live. His Join us in reaching out, connecting, continued from page 7 This would have been his life, he salvation came in the form of 20 peers and supporting their journey to belong- how to release anger and embrace emphasized, had it not been for the box- and a handful of adults gathering once a ing… hope. Deeply profound concepts from ing program, and especially for the love week to exercise bodies, but, more espe- ever-emerging spirits. and care of his Counselors at The High cially, to open hearts. To let others in. To Author’s Note: For more informa- One young man in particular spoke School of Commerce who encouraged belong. To walk through a crowd and no tion regarding the Task Force to the draws of gangs because they make and supported his participation in the longer feel like a nobody. But realize you meetings, programs, initiatives, and you feel like a part of something. Like program. are a somebody. You are a somebody. how you can get involved, please you belong. In his own words, he With poise and grace, this young This young man is just one some- contact Gianna Allentuck at painted a picture of a broken, tired fam- man described the prescribed fate of so body. But he is the face and essence of 703.930.0243. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 33
african american point of view page thirty-three october 1, 2014 OP - ED A Few Thoughts on your Workforce Development Issue By Rebecca Willoughby truly appreciate the issue you re- several organizations. competency standards. Their website being a ‘skills gap’ especially here in cently published on Workforce De- The first of which is the National for further information is: Western Massachusetts. There is a Ivelopment. (POV, August 15, 2014 Association of Workforce Develop- www.nawdp.org. I currently hold a book by Dani Moore called Untapped Education Special issue.) I have been ment Professionals. This organization Certified Workforce Development Pro- Talent that suggests that there is more in this largely overlooked field for over provides valuable information and re- fessional credential with an endorse- 25 years and hold several credentials sources. Their monthly newsletter The ment in Job Seeker Services. I have employers can do to tap the talent and certifications, including training Advantage is invaluable. Articles on the been a member since 1990. within an organization. Just a thought with Richard Knowdell, one of the pi- many uses of labor market information; Another great resource for those to consider: The age to impact our fu- oneers. You have provided excellent rules of job reference etiquette from in Workforce Development is holding ture workforce may be younger than definitions for many of the positions both sides of the desk; and solving the Global Career Development Facil- previously realized. I personally do not found in Workforce Development. human resource dilemmas are just itator (GCDF) credential offered think third grade is too early to institute Workforce Development has some of the useful articles. They list the through the Center for Credentialing evolved and diversified over time. It latest federal publications, reports, and and Education, cce-global.org. This is workforce development. In today’s now encompasses job seeker services, information on grants and other fund- an international organization. Many global village, do we really want to career coaching, employment counsel- ing sources. In addition to their web- states now require their middle and wait until eighth grade to get the com- ing, workforce policy and forecasting, site, they have a presence on LinkedIn, high school teachers and guidance petition started? programming, training, and employer Facebook and Twitter, host webinars, counselors to hold a GCDF. The good Lastly, your readers should not services. youth and adult conferences, and part- news is that this credential can now be overlook the value of Workforce De- There are resources available to ner with other workforce entities na- obtained locally at Holyoke Commu- velopment associations such as the Na- your readers interested in this field. Ac- tionwide. Since 1999, they have nity College. I currently hold a GCDF. cessing resources can assist in making offered the Certified Workforce Devel- I was the 18th person in Massachusetts tional Association of African better decisions in order to innovate. opment Professional credential with to achieve it. Americans in Human Resources and Your readers can greatly benefit from specialty endorsements in national There is a lot said about there others. ■ FEATURED ARTICLE COMMUNITY FOCUS Dr. William Davila Changing Lives through Literature continued from page 5 impressive is their class scheduling continued from page 17 3,500 offenders have participated in the of his qualitative staff, he understands which is so sensitive to the needs of the ciety and provides them with the chance program. The impact on these individ- the importance of putting familiar faces population the school is targeting. It to change their lives. uals and their families has been dra- on those who will be interfacing with ranges from weekend classes to night During interviews, the probation matic―studies indicate a reduction in and outreaching to a diverse commu- classes to university without walls participants shared how they enjoyed recidivism rates and decreased violent nity. But most important, Will is only 41 classes and, most exciting, avante the experiences and were grateful for behavior. years old. He represents not just the garde, on-line classes. And the best part the opportunities provided through the The caring described by the partic- present but also the future. Even though of it all is that UMass is not in competi- program. Paul Young was particularly ipants was evident. Assistant Chief Pro- impacted by the college campus atmos- it may be an additional burden for him, tion with local colleges. To the contrary, bation Officer Lorraine Samuelson phere and he now believes he can ac- like his mother who was the first to have UMass is collaborating with local col- Sigall in her remarks during the pro- leges to provide an even greater diver- complish anything he sets his mind gram shared that a quote by James high expectations of him and of his twin to. Gabriel Cartagena said it got him sity of educational opportunity to Baldwin: “For these are all our chil- brother, Anthony, who has a bachelor’s back to reading. Edward Cisero, who in Psychology and an M.Ed in educa- Greater Springfield residents. All you dren...We will all profit by or pay for have to do to avail yourself of this new kind of emerged as spokesman for the tion and his 38-year-old younger group, said he couldn’t thank whatever they become,” is in her mind opportunity is to take the time to visit brother, Malwin, who has a bachelor’s Judge Page, Professor Sullivan and As- daily in whatever issue she has to ad- UMass Center at Springfield at 1500 in Sociology from UMass Amherst and sistant Chief Probation Officer Samuel- dress. The participants and Judge Page his 34-year-old sister, Julisa, who holds Main Street, Suite 260 at Tower Square son Sigall enough for their referenced repeatedly how Lorraine a bachelor’s in Education from West- and learn. encouragement and support during the gave so much of herself to the field State University, so do we have the Dr. William A. Davila (Dr. Papi), program. One probationer (I think he CLTL program. Judge Page, court offi- highest expectations that Will is going Director of Operations at UMass Center was the oldest in the group) said, cers and Western New England Univer- to make UMass Center at Springfield a at Springfield is one of our own who ran “Everyone needs someone to believe in sity staff all appeared to be proud of the successful educational oasis. the streets of our neighborhoods and them and to care. These people care.” accomplishments of the participants. It I intentionally omitted details was educated in our elementary and sec- The CLTL program is not new. It was also apparent that they had enjoyed was founded in 1991 by UMASS Pro- about the educational programs offered ondary schools and at UMass and the experience of giving of themselves fessor Robert Waxler and Judge Robert at UMass Center at Springfield. They Boston College and just across the state in support of and with the hope of Kane as an alternative sentencing pro- have been well publicized and for those line in Hartford. And he returned to us “changing lives through literature.” after a long, though compact, and fruit- gram, using literature as a way of reach- who missed the publicity, the 26,000 ing criminal offenders on probation. It What a wonderful partnership! square foot UMass Center at Springfield ful career. Let’s hope that he is a beacon What a great story! People helping peo- for the many other young people from now exists in more than 20 courts in is open for business and welcomes vis- Massachusetts and operates in Rhode ple. I was helped by this program, too. I our community who might consider itors who are interested in their amaz- Island, Connecticut, New York, Maine, reread “To Kill A Mocking Bird,” and I ingly diverse offerings. Most bringing their resources home. ■ Texas, Arkansas and Kansas. Over will be more vigilant about caring. ■ POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 34
african american point of view page thirty-four october 1, 2014 BLACK SPORTS BLACK SPORTS INTERNATIONAL Shoni Schimmel BOBO BRAZIL 1st Native-American Player in the WNBA First African-American Schimmel was selected to be a member of the team Male Professional representing the U.S.A. at the 2013 World University Games held in Kazan, Russia. The team, coached by Wrestler to Win a Sherri Coale, won the opening four games easily, scor- ing in triple digits in each game, and winning by 30 or World Heavyweight more points in each case. After winning the quarter-final game against Swe- Championship den, they faced Australia in the semi-final. The U.S.A. Team opened up as much as a 17 point lead in the fourth quarter of the game, but the Australian Team fought back, and took a one point lead in the final minute. Crys- tal Bradford scored a basket with 14 seconds left in the game to secure a 79–78 victory. The Gold Medal opponent was Russia, but the U.S.A. Team never trailed, and won 90–71 to win the Gold Medal and the World University Games Champi- onship. Schimmel averaged 4.6 points per game. On April 14, 2014, Schimmel was selected in the honi Schimmel is a Native-American basketball first round of the 2014 WNBA Draft (eighth pick over- player. She was an All-American college player all) by the Atlanta Dream. Sat the University of Louisville and a first round She also earned recognition as the 2014 WNBA draft pick of the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream. All-Star Game Most Valuable Player on July 19, 2014 Schimmel, a 5’9” point guard, first received noto- in Phoenix, Arizona. riety as a high school player in Oregon. Born May 4, 1992, and raised on the Confederated Shoni Schimmel’s Bio Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Mission, ouston Harris was an American professional WNBA’s Atlanta Dream: No. 23 Oregon, she was the subject of a documentary by film- wrestler, better known by his ring name, Bobo maker Jonathan Hock called Off the Rez, which chroni- Point guard HBrazil. Credited with breaking down barriers of cled her journey to earn an NCAA scholarship with her Born: May 4, 1992 racial segregation in professional wrestling, Harris is basketball ability. Nationality: FIRST NATIONS (Native-American) considered one of the first successful African-American She transferred from Hermiston High School in Height: 5 feet 9 inches professional wrestlers. eastern Oregon to the larger Franklin High School in High school: Hermiston (Hermiston, Oregon) He was born July 10, 1924, in Little Rock, Portland, Oregon, to increase her chances of being re- Franklin (Portland, Oregon) Arkansas, but later lived in East St. Louis, Illinois, and cruited to a Division I school. After her senior year at College: Louisville (2010–2014) Benton Harbor, Michigan. He played baseball and Franklin, Schimmel was named a First-Team All-Amer- WNBA Draft: 8th overall, 2014 worked in a steel mill. ican by Parade magazine. Atlanta Dream Harris was trained by Joe Savoldi, after meeting Schimmel was selected to the 2010 Women’s Bas- WNBA career: 2014–present him at matches at the Naval Armory. Originally, he was ketball Coaches Association (WBCA) High School WNBA Teams: Atlanta Dream (2014–present) to be known as “Boo-Boo Brazil,” but a promoter mis- Coaches’ All-America Team. The top twenty high school Awards and Honors printed his first name as “Bobo” in an advertisement, and players in the country are named as WBCA All-Ameri- o WNBA All-Star (2014) it stuck. cans, and eligible to play in the all-star game. She par- o WNBA All-Star Game MVP (2014) Early in his career, some wrestling promoters ticipated in the 2010 WBCA High School All-America o All-American – USBWA (2014) would match Brazil against fellow African-American Game, scoring six points. o Second-Team All-American – AP (2014) wrestlers, including Ernie Ladd and Abdullah the Schimmel chose the University of Louisville for o First-Team All-AAC (2014) Butcher. Fans clamored to see Brazil face opponents of college, and became a four-year starter for the Cardinals. o 2x First-Team All-Big East Conference any type, and he would have many matches with com- As a junior in 2012–13, she led the team to the champi- (2012–2013) petitors such as Killer Kowalski, Dick the Bruiser, onship game of the 2013 Tournament. Medal Record-Women’s Basketball Johnny Valentine and The Sheik, who feuded with Brazil In her senior season, Schimmel averaged 17.1 o World University Games over the course of several decades. points per game to lead the team in scoring. She was ● Gold These and other rivals would all fall victim to named an All-American by the USBWA and Associated ● 2013 Kazan, Russia Brazil’s finishing maneuver, the Coco Butt. Brazil also Press. ● Team Competition once wrestled Bill Miller to a draw, and challenged For her career, she finished second on the Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF Championship in a Louisville career scoring list, finishing with 2,174 Re-print permission and photo courtesy of www.black- battle of two top babyface competitors. points. sportsthemagazine.com. continues to page 36 POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 35
african american point of view page thirty-five october 1, 2014 BLACK SPORTS BLACK SPORTS INTERNATIONAL “Gus” Johnson Sportscaster Extraordinaire also had a small cameo as an announcer Lions Television Network. in the 1998 film He Got Game. Johnson became lead blow-by-blow caller for Johnson is known primarily for his Showtime Championship Boxing on CBS-owned enthusiasm and excitement that he shares Showtime, replacing longtime voice Steve Albert. with the game. He often uses signature He was also a mixed martial arts commentator phrases “Oh my goodness!” - “Rise and for both EliteXC and Strikeforce through mid-2011. fire... Count it!” - “Here comes the pain!” Johnson was widely derided for his commentary dur- - “From the parking lot!” - “And the Run- ing the Kimbo Slice vs Seth Petruzelli fight, where he ner....Bang!” - “Pure!” - “BAM!” - “Hot announced that the fight was “the most incredible vic- Sauce!” - “Cold-Blooded!” - “What a tory in the history of mixed martial arts.” game!” and “HA-HAAA.” ESPN’s Bill He was also the play-by-play man alongside Bill Simmons frequently cites Johnson to be Raftery in EA Sports NCAA Basketball 10. the “cause” of the many exciting finishes In May 2010, it was announced that Johnson to the games he calls, calling it “the Law would be the play-by-play announcer in EA Sports ugustus Cornelius “Gus” Johnson, Jr., is an of Gus.” “He’s got ‘get away from the cops’ speed!” Madden NFL 11. He is also the play-by-play an- American sportscaster. Formerly employed is also a famous quote from Johnson. nouncer in Madden NFL 12. by CBS Sports, he currently calls play-by- A He called numerous sports for CBS Sports, with Johnson is also the play-by-play announcer for play for Fox Sports, Showtime, the Big Ten Network his most recognized role as a play-by-play announcer the fictional football games seen in commercials for and the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soc- for CBS’ March Madness, which he worked each year Buffalo Wild Wings, in which games are rigged and cer. from 1996 to 2011. Johnson is particularly known for sent into overtime to allow patrons to stay longer and Johnson was born August 10, 1967. He attended his calls at the end of several close NCAA Tournament enjoy the experience. the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and games, including the double-overtime Xavier vs He has also been an announcer for the Big Ten Academy. He graduated in 1985. That same year, ac- Kansas State game on March 25, 2010. Network’s Sunday Night basketball games since the cording to the winter 1997 edition of University of De- He worked for the Madison Square Garden Net- 2008-2009 season, and was slated to announce 23 troit Jesuit’s alumni magazine, Highlights, Johnson work (MSG) from 1994–2010, where he was the radio games for the network in the 2010-2011 season. was all-league quarterback for the school’s football play-by-play and backup television play-by-play an- Before the 2010–11 NBA season, it was an- team, an all-league shooting guard on the basketball nouncer of the NBA’s New York Knicks, in addition nounced that Johnson was let go by MSG Network, team and first baseman and catcher on the baseball to providing television play-by-play for MSG’s cov- the television flagship station for the New York team. erage of the WNBA’s New York Liberty. With the Knicks. Johnson explained on February 16, 2012, on Knicks, he was well known for some of his calls. For The 1984-1985 University of Detroit Jesuit year- the Scott Ferrall Show, that he wanted to leave the example, one famous Gus line occurs after Knicks for- book also notes that Johnson was a co-captain of both Network in order to spend more time with his son. ward Al Harrington scores: “My name is Al Harring- the football and basketball teams and most valuable CBS released Johnson on May 5, 2011 following ton... And I get Buckets!” player on the latter. a contract dispute. He was still scheduled to call a box- Perhaps Johnson’s most famous Knicks call was Johnson attended and subsequently graduated ing match between Shane Mosley and Manny Pac- his yelling and screaming during Allan Houston’s last from Howard University with a degree in Political quiao for Showtime two days later. On May 9, 2011, second shot to knock off the top-seeded Miami Heat Science in 1990. He was a four-year letter winner on Johnson finalized a deal to call college football and in the first round of the 1999 playoffs, en route to an Howard’s baseball team. Born in Detroit, Michigan, NFL telecasts for Fox Sports. unlikely NBA Finals appearance. he is a resident of New York City. In 2012, Johnson served as a radio play-by-play Johnson has also provided commentary for Johnson called play-by-play for the NBA’s Min- announcer of Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earth- MSG’s coverage of the Golden Gloves Tournament, nesota Timberwolves (1996–97), Big East Basketball quakes, working a few of the team’s away games on and served as host of the “Yankees ScoreCard” and on the Big East Network, college hockey and college radio. He is currently being groomed by Fox Sports to basketball on ESPN and Canadian Football League “SportsDesk,” as well as the New York Rangers and Knicks “GameNight.” be its lead soccer announcer, and called his first UEFA games for ESPN2. He also did some NFL games for Beginning in 2006, Johnson served as the pre- Champions League match on February 13, 2013. CBS. season TV voice for the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia It has been anticipated that Johnson will be Fox He hosted ESPN’s Black College Sports Today Eagles. He also provided play-by-play commentary Sports’ lead announcer for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. in 1991. After brief stints as an on-air personality with for the Arena Football League’s defunct New York He is also the lead play-by-play announcer for Fox KXXV-TV in Waco, Texas, WAAY-TV in Huntsville, Dragons. College Hoops, reuniting with Bill Raftery, who Alabama, and WXII-TV in Winston-Salem, North In 2008, Johnson handled play-by-play duties for works for CBS and formally with ESPN. Carolina, he served as the weekend anchor for WTTG- the Detroit Lions pre-season games on The Detroit Re-print permission and photo courtesy of TV in Washington, D.C., from 1991 to 1992. Johnson www.blacksportsthemagazine.com. FOR MORE SPORTS GO TO: www.blacksportsthemagazine.com POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 36
african american point of view page thirty-six october 1, 2014 BLACK SPORTS BLACK SPORTS INTERNATIONAL World Wrestling Association (Indianapolis) BOBO BRAZIL o WWA World Heavyweight Championship (2 times) continued from page 34 “Soulman” Rocky Johnson. o WWA World Tag Team Championship (1 time) Brazil’s manager was James Dudley, On October 18, 1962, Brazil made – with Chris Carter the first African-American to be in charge history by becoming the first African- World Wrestling Association (Los Angeles) of a major arena in the United States. American to win the NWA World Heavy- o WWA World Heavyweight Championship (2 weight Title by defeating “Nature Boy” Dudley would run to the ring waving a times) World Wide Wrestling Federation / World Wrestling Buddy Rogers (this distinction is usually towel, as Brazil followed behind. Federation given to Ron Simmons, the first recog- Brazil retired in 1993 after a four o WWWF United States Championship (7 times) nized African-American World Champion decades career. His last official match was in Chicago, Illinois, against Kelly Kiniski, o WWF Hall of Fame (Class of 1994) after winning the WCW World Heavy- Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards weight Championship). Although Brazil son of his rival, Gene Kiniski. He was inducted into the WWF Hall o Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame initially refused the title (because of an (Class of 1996) “injury” that Rogers had claimed to have), of Fame in 1994, by Ernie Ladd. The fol- Signature moves: Piledriver -- Elbow he was awarded the title the next day after lowing year, Brazil inducted Ladd into the Bobo Brazil Bio doctors had found nothing wrong with WWF Hall of Fame. Birth name: Houston Harris smash to the back of the head Rogers. However, this title change is not After retiring from wrestling, he Born: July 10, 1924 Billed height: 6 feet 6 inches recognized by the NWA. managed a restaurant. Little Rock, Arkansas Billed weight: 270 lbs. On October 9, 1970, Brazil and El Harris died on January 20, 1998, at Died: January 20, 1998 Mongol defeated Mr. Ito and The Great the Lakeland Medical Center in St. St. Joseph, Michigan Billed from: Benton Harbor, Ota in the first racially mixed match in At- Joseph, Michigan. He had been admitted Professional wrestling career Michigan lanta history. to the hospital on January 14th, after suf- Ring name(s): Trained by: Joe Savoldi He served as a mentor to wrestler fering a series of strokes. Bobo Brazil, Boo-Boo Brazil, Debut: 1951 BuBu Brasil, Houston Harris Retired: 1993 Championships and Accomplishments In wrestling Finishing moves: Re-print permission and photo courtesy of Championship Wrestling from Florida Coco Butt (Headbutt) www.blacksportsthemagazine.com. o NWA Florida Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Sweet Brown Sugar and Dusty Rhodes Eastern Sports Association o ESA North American Heavyweight Championship (1 time) Japan Wrestling Associ- CLASSIFIEDS ation BUY NEW ENGLAND CLASSIFIED AD o NWA International Heavyweight Championship (2 times) Maple Leaf Wrestling o NWA Canadian Open Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Whipper Billy Wat- NETWORK son ROMOTE YOUR PRODUCT, SERVICE OR BUSINESS TO 1.8 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS o NWA United States Heavyweight Championship (Toronto version - 1 time) THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND. REACH 4 MILLION POTENTIAL READERS QUICKLY AND Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling PINEXPENSIVELY WITH GREAT RESULTS. USE THE BUY NEW ENGLAND CLASSIFIED AD o NWA United States Heavyweight Championship (Mid-Atlantic version - 1 time) NETWORK BY CALLING 413-796-1500. DO THEY WORK? YOU ARE READING ONE OF OUR ADS Midwest Wrestling Association (Ohio) NOW!! VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE WHERE YOUR ADS RUN FREE COMMUNITY PAPERS OF o MWA Ohio Heavyweight Championship (1 time) NEW ENGLAND WWW.FCPNE.COM o MWA Ohio Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Frankie Talaber AUTOS WANTED Email: [email protected] for more in- National Wrestling Alliance Cash For Cars: Any Make, Model or Year. formation. o NWA Hall of Fame (Class of 2013) We Pay MORE! Running or Not, Sell your NWA Detroit Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! 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african american point of view page thirty-seven october 1, 2014 OCTOBER 2014 EVENTS For more events, go to: www.afampointofview.com WEDNESDAY―1 THURSDAY―16 Springfield Technical Community College Diversity Series Westfield State University features Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winning presents “Disrupting the author, musician, and screenwriter, James McBride Status Quo: Creating a When: 11am Youth Empowerment Model for Undocumented Immi- Info: $50 with Complimentary Fish Fry on Friday, Where: STCC, One Armory Square, grant Youth” with Lauren Burke, Esquire 10/17, 6―8pm at Cozy’s Pavilion, Scibelli Hall Gymnasium, Springfield, MA When: 6:30 pm 666 State Street ; Info: FREE and Open to the Public; 413.755.4414; Where: Westfield State University, Wilson Auditorium, See Ad and Article on page 14 www.stcc.edu/diversity 577 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA Info: FREE and Open to the public: WEDNESDAY―23 SATURDAY―4 westfield.ma.edu/events; See Ad on page 23 Center for Human Development 10th Annual Confer- Dr. Bethune & Dr. Height Recognition Award Luncheon ence “Girls Can!” featuring M. C. Lyte presents Honoring Women of Color in the Military SATURDAY―18 When: 9am―4pm Armed Forces with Guest Speaker, Major General Dr. Springfield Unity Festival, “We Raise Our Voices” Where: MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street, Irene Trowell-Harris When: 7:30pm Springfield, MA When: 12noon―2pm Where: Springfield Symphony Hall, Court Square, Info: $125; www.chd.org/throughhereyes ; Where: Hartford-Windsor Marriott Hotel, Springfield, MA See Ad and Article on page 23 28 Day Hill Road, Windsor, CT Info: $16.50; 413.788.7033; Info: $50; 203.777.8775 www.springfieldunityfestival.com; See Ad and Article on page 19 SUNDAY―12 V O T E ! Behavioral Health Network, Inc. 2nd Annual 5k Run/2m Buckingham Junior High School Reunion Weekend Walk, “Better Health Now!” When: 6:30pm Social Hour; 7:30pm Dinner; Tuesday When: 10am start 8:30―11pm Where: Forest Park, Springfield, MA Where: Cedars Banquet Hall, 375 Island Pond Road, Info: 413.301.9542; 413.301.9538; www.bhninc.org Springfield, MA November 4, 2014
Interested in starting or finishing your college degree? Attend STCC’s Evening Information Session.
Thursday, October 16
5:30pm–8:00pm P by RSV at: ober 9 3CIBELLI (ALLTH &LOOR ay, Oct Thursd /101614 tcc.edu www.s WTCC is your source for music - from jazz to R&R oldies, Learn more about: gospel to salsa, R&B to blues, Motown and more, s !SSOCIATE $EGREE #ERTIlCATE 0ROGRAMS as well as Caribbean, Portuguese, Latino, Polish, Greek, Native American and Italian programming - s &INANCIAL !ID plus talk shows with local hosts discussing local issues. s .ON CREDIT TRAINING CERTIlCATIONS s /NLINE ,EARNING www.stcc.edu
Scan to take a virtual (413) 755-3333 Your all-volunteer community radio station campus tour! broadcasting 24/7 from the campus of STCC Springfield Technical www.wtccfm.org Community College POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 38
african american point of view page thirty-eight october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS August 29, 2014
Point of View ― “Rick” & “Marge,”
Just a note of sympathy and encouragement to the family of Mrs. Naomi White-Inniss. She was a wonderful person. I loved watching her “Heritage Corner Show” as a kid on TV40. She was all about our Springfield community coming together as one Naomi White-Inniss of mutual respect. All of us must continue to work together to honor her legacy. God rest her soul. July 10, 1937 August 22, 2014 Respectfully, Domenic J. Sarno
Republican photo/DAVE ROBACK File Photo by Mark M.Murray Suzi Swain, a staff member at Proj- Naomi White-Inniss, who ect AIM in Holyoke, lights a candle did a TV show in the during a Kwanzaa ceremony Tues- 1970s called "Heritage day at St. Paul's Church while Corner," holds one of Naomi White-Inniss, director of her favorite dolls from her multicultural affairs at American In- collection in this file ternational College in Springfield, photo from 2004. White- watches. Inniss uses the dolls to help teach about diversity. Photos and captions were taken from masslive.com
● Support sustainable and organic field to accomplish the goal of in- farms creasing accessibility to healthy, af- ● Reduce hunger fordable food in Springfield. ● Reform factory farms to protect the Many people from Springfield and & the Springfield Food Policy Council’s Annual Meeting environment ● Support fair working conditions for surrounding communities are expected food and farm workers to attend the event. The Springfield Springfield Food Policy Council Food Policy Council looks forward to Locally, the Springfield Food Policy working with new membership, as well presents its Annual Meeting and Council aims to: as increasing its presence in Springfield ● Improve the nutritional content of and accomplishing some of its major Celebration of National Food Day foods served in the Springfield Pub- goals in the upcoming year. This community event calls attention to food access issues in Springfield lic School System by incorporating Please RSVP to Johnetta Baymon at and celebrates the national movement for healthy, more local food and by creating [email protected] or at 413-263-6500 x6539. affordable, and sustainable food. school gardens where students can learn how to SPRINGFIELD, MA – On October healthy meal, and the annual election grow, harvest 22, 2014 at St. Michaels Cathedral, for the Springfield Food Policy Council and prepare their Bishop Marshall Center, Elliot St. en- will also take place. own fruits and trance, 260 State St. Springfield MA Food Day is a nationwide celebra- vegetables. 01109 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., the Spring- tion and a movement toward more ● Increase the field Food Policy Council will conduct healthy, affordable and sustainable amount of urban its 5th Annual meeting along with Food food. Food Day is a chance to celebrate agriculture in Day—the nationwide celebration and what our food system does right and Springfield, movement toward more healthy, afford- take action to bring us closer to a food which will help able, sustainable food and a better food system with “real food” that is produced local communi- system. This event, which is open to the with care for the environment, animals, ties gain access public, will help residents to be a part of and the women and men who grow, har- to fresh produce. an undertaking to improve the availabil- vest and serve it. Food Day’s priorities ● Work with the ity and safety of local food for all resi- are to: City of Spring- dents. This event will include a free ● Promote safer, healthier diets POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 39
african american point of view page thirty-nine october 1, 2014 COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Renée Flowers is Point of View’s Artist in Residence. More of her original art pieces can be viewed at our office at 688 Boston Road, Springfield. You can also contact her directly at (413) 209-9882 to arrange a private viewing of her work. (See May 1, 2014 POV Community Focus arti- cle on Renée by Emurriel Holloway for more informa- tion on the artist @ www.afampointofview.com.)
Ribbon is cut by U.S. Representative Richard E. Neal, Caring Health Center President and CEO Tania Barber, and Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno at Caring Health Care Center Richard E. Neal Complex
Every month different paintings created by Renée Flowers are displayed at Springfield Superintendent of Schools Daniel Warwick, Mayor Domenic Sarno Point of View and Freedom Credit Union President & CEO Barry F. Crosby celebrate the opening of Freedom Credit Union’s newest branch at Roger L. Putnam 688 Boston Road Vocational Technical Academy Springfield, MA
1st Annual Patricia Brown Scholarship Banquet honors recipients Joy Snowden and Natasha Mitchell. The award will be given annually to adult women who are returning to school. POV_October_1_2014_POV_October_1_2014 9/24/2014 12:48 PM Page 40
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