Af-Am Your VOICE Your COMMUNITY POINT OF VIEW Your POINT OF VIEW www.afampov.com Our Community News Magazine january 1, 2016 SPRINGFIELD NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING SERVICES, INC.: 37 YEARS OF SERVICE “Well as you can see, Springfield NHS can work with Happy New Year 2016 anyone along the continuum of not being credit worthy to those that are credit worthy, whether the client is a potential first time home buyer, an existing homeowner, a tenant or someone just interested in establishing or re- pairing their credit. Springfield NHS is also a Licensed DR. MARK KEROACK Lender and Broker….Its products consist of mortgages for potential homebuyers, refinancing, 203K rehab The New Kid in Town loans, and Veteran Loans.” By SNHS – 5 By Frederick A. Hurst MINORITY ENTREPRENEURSHIP ou wouldn’t know much sume certainly would have IS GROWING about the human side of played a considerable role in his “Hispanic owned firms increased by 46.3 percent from YDr. Mark Keroack by hiring but so wouldn’t, I imagine, 2.4 million to 3.3 million. The number of Native Hawai- reading his resume. It’s a very the humility that shows through ian and other Pacific Islander firms rose 45.3 percent… when you meet him. Black or African-American-owned firms rose from 1.9 technical resume written in a million to 2.6 million, and the number of Asian-owned unique style that conveys much I first met Dr. Keroack at firms climbed from 1.5 million to 1.9 million.” about his professional accom- the retirement ceremony for Commerce Department – 10 plishments but little about him as Peter Straley, former President a person unless you read between and Chief Executive Officer of NEW YEAR, NEW VOICES Health New England, which is a “I must constantly find the humility and patience to the lines. It is not only well writ- for profit health insurance arm of learn to see the world through the eyes of young people. ten but the list of his writings at- Baystate Health. We were intro- I must make sure they understand that I want to know tached to it is longer than my arm how they truly feel and not imply by inference, or oth- duced to Dr. Keroack by Baystate and as impressive as are all of his erwise, that they should tell me what they think I want Health’s Vice President for Mar- other significant accomplish- to hear. keting & Public Affairs, Suzanne By Magdalena Gómez – 16 ments in the field of medicine. Hendery. She took the time to But if you were among those BECOMING THE WOMAN WITH give the editor and me a brief bi- THE TORCH who interviewed him for his cur- ography of Dr. Keroack includ- Dr. Mark Keroack Inclusive leadership is not always easy. It can be hard rent position as President and ing the fact that his equally to include those that others perceive as “different” or a President and Chief Executive Officer of Chief Executive Officer of “threat”. Inclusive leadership relies on leaders that can Baystate Health Systems, Inc. Baystate Health Systems, his re- continues to page 22 bring out our “better angels” when the task is difficult.” By Lora Wondolowski – 17 An Open Letter to our An Open Letter about MAKING COLLEGE MORE AFFORDABLE “I also support a bill that provides full tuition, after fi- Presidential Candidates Donald Trump nancial aid and gift aid, for all residents who attend community college in Massachusetts…” By Gianna Allentuck By Bishop Talbert W. Swan, II By Sen. Eric P. Lesser – 17 nough is enough. I don’t want to hear you talk December 1, 2015 about Black Lives Matter, NRA, Muslims, guns, HAPPY NEW YEAR Christians, Atheists, Activists, amendments, Dear Friends, “For those who are not yet believers, Point of View is E rights, etc. I want you to hear us talk about children with not going away. It has not been easy to provide a con- n a recent article regarding the presidential candidacy tinuous flow of news to our readers but thanks to our PTSD or anxiety or detachment or mood disorder who of Donald Trump, Kirsten West Savali wrote: “If a solid base of loyal contributors and our dedicated staff, don’t know how to react peacefully when another stu- mad scientist locked himself in a laboratory and we have not faltered in our 12 years of existence and dents bumps them in line. Instead, they push or shove or I we don’t expect 2016 to be any different.” threw racism, sexism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, impe- punch to make their discomfort known. Do they want to By Frederick A. Hurst – 24 rialism, classism, elitism and delusions of grandeur into shove? Most likely, no. Do they know any other a boiling cauldron, the result would be Donald John BE INTENTIONAL! way? Perhaps not. Can we help them? Yes. “Now it seems that we as a people are too lazy or too Trump.” As accurate as Savali’s assessment is, we’d have scared to do something. We sit back and wait for the continues to page 8 continues to page 15 next great leader to move “our people” forward. What Please visit, follow, subscribe, comment, like, tweet, read or explore on our website at: www.afampointofview.com or www.afampov.com if you are the next great leader…?” www.facebook.com/AfAmPointofView https://plus.google.com/+PointofViewSpringfield www.twitter.com/AfAmPointofView By Zaida Govan – 28 afam point of view page two january 1, 2016 afam point of view page three january 1, 2016 BUSINESS & FINANCE AN AFRICAN AMERICAN Point of View Celebrating Entrepreneurs: Commerce Dept. Data ...... 10 688 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119 Phone: (413) 796-1500 ● Fax: (413) 796-6100 Home Modification Loan Program ...... 11 CONT E-mail: [email protected] ● Website: www.afampointofview.com CLASSIFIED...... 36 www.facebook.com/ https://plus.google.com/ www.twitter.com/ COMMUNITY AfAmPointofView +PointofViewSpringfield AfAmPointofView Community Focus ...... 18 Point of View is a monthly news journal with an African American orientation. It is distributed Community Information...... 14 free to select locations in Hampden and Hampshire counties and in Connecticut. Letters, articles and comments appearing in the newspaper reflect the opinions of the contributors Community Perspectives (continues from cover) ...... 15 and do not constitute an endorsement by POV and are subject to editing. POV assumes no Congratulations Corner ...... 33 responsibility for photos, articles, letters, press releases or unsolicited materials. Decisions Events...... 37 as to the editing and publishing of material are based on space availability and the discretion of the publisher and editor. Distribution locations are listed on our web site. POV assumes Food for Thought ...... 28 no financial responsibility for failure to publish an advertisement, incorrect placement or ty- Good News...... 33 pographical errors in its publication. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of Latin@ Groove ...... 16 their advertising and claims and offers contained within their advertising. POV reserves the Leadership Pioneer Valley...... 17 right to refuse advertising for any reason. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Political Happenings ...... 17 PUBLISHER: Frederick A. Hurst EDITOR: Marjorie J. Hurst EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: THIS ISSUE AF-AM Newsbits ...... 4 Artist in Residence Renée Flowers Mama’s Boyz Jerry Craft From the Publisher’s Desk ...... 24 Children’s Book Corner Terri Schlichenmeyer Op-Ed George Phillies Letters to the Publisher...... 25 Community Perspectives Bishop Talbert W. Swan II Parents & Community Patricia Spradley Op Ed by George Phillies, Chair MA Libertarian Party ...... 24 Early Education & Care Nicole Blais & EDUCATION Education & Hope Gianna Allentuck Pen & Ink Brenda’s Child Entertainment Review Moyah Smith Juanita Torrence-Thompson Early Education & Care ...... 9 Features SNHS Political Happenings Sen. Eric P. Lesser Education & Hope (continues from cover) ...... 8 Wesley United Methodist Church Reading to Succeed Sally Fuller Parents & Community...... 7 (email submission) Mary Shurn Religious Point of View Rev. Dr. Atu White, Editor Reading to Succeed...... 7 Food for Thought Zaida Govan School Committee Happenings...... 6 E Good News School Comm. Happenings Denise M. Hurst Jay Griffin The Supt.’s Corner Supt. Daniel Warwick The Superintendent’s Corner...... 6 Health Matters Doris Harris, Editor Youth Premier Soccer David Kelley FEATURES Latin@ Groove Magdalena Gómez Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. Celebrates....5 Artistic/Multimedia Director - Marie Zanazanian Leadership Pioneer Valley Lora Wondolowski Distribution Manager - Shawn Merriman Wesley United Methodist 34th Annual Scholarship Breakfast .23 Life’s Challenges Sweets H. Wilson, PhD Photographer - Ed Cohen Laugh Out Loud!!! ...... 31

HEALTH NT LOCATE OUR ADVERTISERS Health Matters...... 12 34th Annual Dr. MLK, Jr. Memorial Breakfast ------23 Mount Calvary Baptist Church------27 American Heart Association ...... 14 Aida Ruiz-Batiste-Keller Williams Pioneer Valley ----11 Mt. Zion Baptist Church ------26 LIVING Alden Baptist Church ------27 New Life Calvary Baptist Church ------27 Baystate Medical Center ------12 Olive Tree Books-n-Voices ------7 Life’s Challenges...... 28 Bethel AME Church------27 Overflowing Love Church of the Living God ------27 PHOTO GALLERY ...... 20-21, 38-39 Branford Hall Career Institute ------3 Pioneer Valley Performing Arts CPS ------18 RELIGION Brightwell Insurance Company ------11 Progressive Community Baptist Church------27 Canaan Baptist Church of Christ ------27 Roberta B. Johnson/Real Living Real Estate------11 Comments on Three Recent Deaths...... 26 Center for Human Development------29 Shiloh Seventh-Day Adventist Church------27 Religious Point of View ...... 26 Community Music School of Springfield ------14 Solid Rock Community Baptist Church ------27 Ed Cohen Photography------11 Religious Directory...... 26-27 Springfield Dept. of Health & Human Services ------12 Family Church------27 SPRINGFIELD SPORTS Freedom Credit Union ------10 Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services------5 Freedom House of God Inc. ------27 Springfield Technical Community College------9 Youth Premier Soccer...... 35 Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry------12 St. John’s Congregational Church------27 THE ARTS Hall & Hall Siding------11 STCC Diversity Speakers Series------36 S Home Inspections by Marco, Inc. ------11 The Brianna Fund for Children with Disabilities ------2 Art for the Soul...... 31 Hurst & Hurst, P.C.------11 Third Baptist Church ------27 Children’s Book Corner ...... 30 Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation ------7 Wesley United Methodist Church ------27 Entertainment Review...... 29 Massachusetts Health Connector ------40 Westfield State University------16 MBC Realtors, LLC ------11 WTCC FM 90.7------12 Mama’s Boyz ...... 37 MGM Springfield------10 X-Bankers Check Cashing------23 Pen & Ink ...... 31

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afam point of view page four january 1, 2016 Southern cohorts who remained com- events.” (as reprinted in The Republi- fortable with Jim Crow laws that kept can, December 16, 2015) In the same AF-AM NEWS bits us Black folks down. And just like we column he emphasized that “…the By Frederick A. Hurst did during Reconstruction and before, Republican Party hasn’t tried to freeze RAY JORDAN’S Black men, for which the cops are Black folks took advantage of the new out (such people). Instead it has tried LEGACY routinely exonerated, is what it does laws and stripped the racists of the to exploit them, mobilizing their re- to erode the confidence of Black folks sentment via dog whistles to win elec- f you didn’t read the editorial in The privileges that Jim Crow laws had be- and those who sympathize with them tions. This was the essence of Richard Republican (December 15, 2015), stowed upon them by voting and run- I in the criminal justice system. For Nixon’s “southern strategy” and it ex- you should. It placed the controversy ning successfully for office and using good reason, white folks look at cops plains why the GOP gets the over- of the naming of the new Blunt Park the hammer of civil rights laws to in- as their protectors. And while Black whelming majority of Southern white senior center in Springfield in its tegrate at all levels. And White South- proper perspective. For those of you folks also view cops as their potential erners seethed and were primed for votes.” The greatest irony of all is that who don’t already know it, after re- protectors, they also must, as a basic the re-emergence of Richard Nixon Richard Nixon himself was closer to ceiving a petition from 125 people, survival strategy, view them as their on the 1968 presidential contest the liberal wing of the Republican the Springfield Park Department potential executioners because alto- scene. And Richard Nixon was a ge- Party. But he was also a Machiavel- named the facility after Raymond A. gether too often they have witnessed nius as he appealed to the “silent ma- lian pragmatist who believed that his Jordan after which another group led the criminal justice system ratifying jority” and to “law and order,” racial desired ends justified any means, by a well known East Springfield cops’ self-appointed role as judges, ju- code terms he used to seduce the which, of course, is what ultimately White activist initiated a petition to ries and executioners. And we Black Southern Democrats into his political destroyed his presidency just as it is deny the naming of the facility after folks with kids would be derelict in orbit. He beat the wimpish Vice Pres- destroying the Republican Party. anyone, alive or dead. The Republican our parental duties if we failed to pre- ident Hubert Humphrey who couldn’t editorial astutely picked up on the less pare our kids for the possibility that overcome the wrath of Vietnam pro- OBAMA IS NOT AS than subtle racial overtones of the their protectors with the badges might testers, who had forced President FECKLESS ON move but, more significantly, pointed also become their executioners. And Johnson to abandon his run for a sec- out that Raymond Jordan had earned how do we teach our kids to distin- ond full term, and altered the basic na- FOREIGN POLICY AS the honor and didn’t deserve to be guish between good cops and bad ture of the Republican Party, although SOME WOULD HAVE caught up in the legitimate issue of cops when virtually all cops who kill it took several decades for it to evolve YOUBELIEVE whether or not public buildings Black folks illegitimately, even in full into the extreme right wing bastion should be named after the living or the public view, are exonerated? that it is today – a bastion of extreme es, I am concerned about our dead. We at Point of View agree. conservative, often racist Southern Ygovernment’s current foreign policy. And, yes, I think President Whether you like Raymond Jordan or THE REPUBLICAN Democrats who abandoned their party Barack Obama didn’t make himself not (and I think I’m well positioned to in hoards for the Republican Party and PARTY AND THE look good when he withdrew all of raise that issue), nobody can deny his forced it further and further to the history of accomplishment. And just our troops from Iraq. And, yes, his SOUTHERN STRATEGY: right, eventually merging it with the as living Richie Neal and Clodo Con- talk of drawing a red line in Syria over extreme conservative elements in the cepcion and others enjoy the honor of “MONSTERS OF THEIR chemical weapons that he backed off Republican Party in the center of the having public buildings named after from when the red line was crossed by OWN CREATION” country and in the Northeast. (Ronald them, until the naming rules have Syria’s Bashar Assad, who continues ven as he sealed his legacy as the Reagan encouraged the exodus when been debated and otherwise altered to kill his own people with abandon in Civil Rights president, President he made his famous campaign visit to separate from the naming of the cur- E ways that violate international law, Lyndon Johnson knew he was chang- Philadelphia, Mississippi where three rent Blunt Park senior center, Ray- was amateurish. But these, like the ing the face of Southern politics when mond Jordan should not have to suffer civil rights workers were killed by the sound of it or not, are tactical errors he signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 the humiliation of appearing to be the locals.) And before the “Rockefeller” that don’t begin to touch upon the subject of the debate. I do not agree, and the Voter Rights Act of 1965 but Republicans knew it, they had lost strategic problem of how to bring sta- however, with the suggestion made in he knew it was the right thing to do. control of their party and were bility to an increasingly unstable Mid- The Republican editorial that Jordan At the time, Southern Democrats strangers in it. It is arguable that dle East without complicating the needs a building named after him to dominated the Democratic Party and George W. Bush, that lovable nut who problem by reintroducing massive be remembered. Building name or the Congress, which is the reason misled us into the Iraq war, was its last American troops, which, when not, Raymond Jordan will be remem- why, in 1962, President John F. remnant. And Donald Trump and Ted closely analyzed, is no solution at all, bered by both his supporters and de- Kennedy chose Johnson, the popular Cruz have emerged as the natural, no more than Donald Trump’s sim- tractors long after he has exited this Texan, as his Vice Presidential run- though odious, benefactors of Nixon’s plistic approach of applying a remedy world. ning mate. When Kennedy was assas- Southern Strategy. In commenting on that brands all Muslims as bad. It is sinated in his second term, a good part the ugliness that characterizes a sig- always comforting to have sober COPS CAN’T BE of our despair came from our belief nificant portion of the Republican minds like syndicated columnist JUDGE, JURY AND that Johnson would turn back electorate, New York Times columnist Kathleen Parker injecting reason into Kennedy’s Civil Rights legacy, which EXECUTIONER Paul Krugman wrote, “…this ugliness the discussion. She wrote, “If not actually was spotty at best. When he has been empowered by the very es- ground troops, then what? There is no he point that so many seem to be forced passage of the civil rights laws, tablishments that now are so horrified Tmissing in these cop killings of Johnson fooled us all including his at the seemingly sudden turn of continues to page 24 afam point of view page five january 1, 2016 SPOTLIGHT ON SPRINGFIELD NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSING made a difference in your lives and a Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. positive change to the Greater Spring- field area as we thrive to “transform Celebrates 37 Years of Service to the Community families and empower residents.” As Springfield NHS continues in t its last Board of Directors looking to become more credit wor- Financial Institution (CDFI), and a 2016, we would like to thank those of meeting on December 9, thy, not just to become a new home HUD Certified Housing Counselor you who provided financial support A2015, Springfield Neighbor- owner. This program helps people to Agency, part of Springfield NHS’s this past year. And now that the New hood Housing Services, Inc. (Spring- buy a car with a lower interest rate mission is to “transform families and Year is approaching, we are asking for field NHS) celebrated 37 years of rather than not becoming credit wor- empower residents.” We do this as a your financial contributions, support providing programs and services to thy, getting their first credit card to Full-Cycle Lender and a One Stop and continued partnerships in 2016. the Springfield community. It looks help them establish credit, or to open Shop providing these necessary pro- In addition, we are reaching out to forward to 2016 as it begins to rebuild up a bank checking or savings ac- grams and services to the Greater other nonprofits and businesses to the agency programmatically and fi- count, and, of course, purchasing their Springfield area. partner with us to help sustain the pro- nancially. first home. Springfield NHS Board of Di- grams and services we provide to After a thorough assessment and However, it is much more than rectors would like to thank Neighbor- families in the Greater Springfield restructuring of Springfield NHS for just that. As part of Springfield NHS’ Works America, City of Springfield, area. the past year, the agency has devel- Post Purchase Program, staff works MA Legislators, HAP, and various If you are interested in volun- oped and streamlined the way they with existing homeowners as well. others for participating in and work- teering or making a financial contri- will continue to bring services to the Through the Foreclosure Prevention ing with us over the past year as we bution to Springfield NHS, you can Springfield and surrounding commu- Program, for clients who are close to move to restructure and rebuild the contact RuthAnn Hamilton-Stutts, nities. or who are in default of their mort- organization. We would also like to Deputy Director at (413) 739-4737, Springfield NHS has provided gage, Springfield NHS staff will work thank other nonprofits and businesses ext. 103, send a check or money order educational and credit counseling pro- with them and their lenders to find a for their referrals to us, and to the to 111 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, grams to its clients, and serviced solution so the homeowner can sus- clients that we have so proudly MA 01109 or go to our website at clients referred to us by other agen- tain homeownership. While working worked with for their participation www.springfieldnhs.org. All contri- cies and businesses, free of charge with clients and their lenders, one-on- and trust in the programs we offer and butions are tax deductible. Thank you since the inception of these programs one credit counseling is also available hope that we have in some small way and Happy New Year! ■ for well over 25 years. to help the existing homeowner be- As part of the assessment come credit worthy again. One-on- process and the reduction and elimi- one credit counseling is also available nation of grants for the past several to other existing homeowners who years, Springfield NHS realizes it may be going through a rough time to cannot continue to offer all of its ed- help them become credit worthy ucational programs for free anymore. again. As a result, in September, 2015, the So why do we feel we are a “One agency started charging clients a Stop Shop”? Well as you can see, small fee for enrolling in the First Springfield NHS can work with any- Time Homebuyers Training Program. one along the continuum of not being Although the number of clients en- credit worthy to those that are credit rolled in the program fell some, it just worthy, whether the client is a poten- meant that our staff is doing an excep- tial first time home buyer, an existing tional job of explaining and encour- homeowner, a tenant or someone just aging clients with some credit issues interested in establishing or repairing to enroll in its Financial Literacy Pro- their credit. Springfield NHS is also a gram first. Licensed Lender and Broker (NMLS The Financial Literacy Program #49872). Its products consist of mort- is still free at this time and includes gages for potential homebuyers, refi- one-on-one credit counseling to help nancing, 203K rehab loans, and clients establish, repair and/or learn Veteran Loans. However, if a client is how to maintain their credit by work- referred to Springfield NHS by an- ing out an Action Plan with our Hous- other lender for the First Time Home- ing Counseling Coach to help them buyer Program, they are referred back become credit worthy and mortgage to that lender to continue their process ready. once they have taken the workshops. As a “Full-Cycle Lender,” As a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Commu- Springfield NHS looks at the agency nity Development Corporation as a “One Stop Shop” for anyone (CDC), a Community Development afam point of view page six january 1, 2016 EDUCATION THE SUPERINTENDENT’S CORNER Preparing for MCAS 2.0 and Beyond Daniel Warwick, Superintendent at the By Dan Warwick Springfield Public Schools As published in The Springfield Educator System (MCAS). In these early days, based test. the test will have great similarity to the the state pointed to the Partnership for Fully understanding that MCAS PARRC test. Dubbed MCAS 2.0, the Assessment of Readiness of College was already the nation’s toughest as- test will be mandatory for all Massa- pringfield Public Schools (SPS) and Career (PARCC) test, a national sessment test, SPS took every oppor- chusetts schools in 2017. In choosing works hard to stay tuned in to model, as the replacement. tunity to learn more about PARRC, to administer the PARRC last year, I Sany change the Department of Early on, we learned of the fea- educate ourselves and our community believe our district has an advantage as Elementary and Secondary Education tures that distinguished PARRC from about it and begin preparations. In- we head toward MCAS 2.0 in 2017. (DESE) mandates, working alongside MCAS. Most notably, was the fact that cluded in those preparations was the I am proud that many of the stu- DESE as early as possible to position PARCC required students to analyze voluntary effort last year of about two- dents and staff of Springfield Public ourselves favorably for the implemen- problems in a way that offered greater thirds of our schools to take the Schools have already become familiar tation of any new process that will im- insight into the child’s readiness for PARCC test as part of a two-year trial. pact the district. college and career than did MCAS. The proactive approach proved with the new testing system that we Our work to prepare for the next Secondly, the PARRC scoring system valuable. This year, the state an- must all adopt. Every district through- generation of standardized testing in included five levels while MCAS used nounced that the new assessment test out Massachusetts has a great deal of Massachusetts has been no exception. only four performance levels. Another will use some of the national PARRC preparation and adaptation ahead to Nearly three years ago, the state an- big difference was that while MCAS items in combination with some Mas- prepare for the MCAS 2.0, but Spring- nounced its intent to replace the Mas- was taken on paper with a pencil, sachusetts-specific components. field Public Schools will once again be sachusetts Comprehensive Assessment PARRC was going to be a computer- DESE has been clear in explaining that leading the way. ■ SCHOOL COMMITTEE HAPPENINGS

Denise M. Hurst, It’s Never Too Late Springfield School By Denise M. Hurst Committee Member [email protected] hold its Organizational Meeting, at voted on. The Organizational Meet- sworn in earlier that morning. (413) 330-1030 which time each committee member ing is open to the public and it is sure The Organizational Meeting will be given their subcommittee as- to be an exciting morning, as our will take place at City Hall, Room signments and the Vice Chair will be Mayor and new City Council will be 220 at 12:30p.m. t’s a “New Year” and the oppor- SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS - SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING DATES tunity to get involved and become Icivically engaged is still avail- SCHOOL YEAR – 2015-2016 able. I often hear from constituents that they are clueless about our edu- nless otherwise indicated, all regular meetings will be held in Room 220, City Hall, 36 Court Street, Springfield, MA. Working Sessions will be held at a location of the committee’s choice. The regular cational system and they only hear U meetings will begin at 6:30PM. Working Sessions, Speak Outs and Meetings with Student Representative about the negative happenings which will begin at 6:00PM are typically reported on by the Monday, January 4, 2016 Thursday, February 25, 2016 Thursday, May 12, 2016 media. 12:30PM Organizational Meeting 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 6:00PM - High School Reps I invite all of our citizens to at- City Hall, Room 220 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 tend the School Committee meetings Thursday, March 10, 2016 if you are interested in learning first- Thursday, January 7, 2016 6:00PM - Speak Out Thursday, May 26, 2016 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 hand about the many initiatives that 6:00PM - Middle School Reps. 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 are taking place and the policies that Thursday, March 24, 2016 Thursday, June 16, 2016 are being implemented to improve 6:00PM - Chapter 74 7:00PM - Retirees Recognition Thursday, January 21, 2016 Vocational Com Putnam Putnam 1300 State Street academic performance and ensure the 6:00PM - Working Session safety and well-being of Springfield Thursday, April 7, 2016 School Dept. 1550 Main Street Thursday, June 23, 2016 students. All School Committee 6:00PM - Middle School Reps. 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 Regular Session meetings are open to the public with Thursday, February 4, 2016 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 the exception of Executive Sessions. 6:00PM - High School Reps Thursday, April 28, 2016 On January 4, 2016, the 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 Regular Session Springfield School Committee will 6:30PM - City Hall, Room 220 afam point of view page seven january 1, 2016 EDUCATION PARENTS & COMMUNITY the more consistent the behavior. And Patricia Spradley is Chief Commit, Don’t Quit the more consistent the behavior, the Administrator for greater likelihood you will persist, re- Parent and By Patricia Spradley gardless what obstacles come your Community Engagement, but should never be construed as an proactively decide to have our focus way. Springfield Public Schools excuse or a way out. Declare that you be on confidence, optimism and suc- (413) 787-6597 Committing to YOU without are in it for the long haul. You have to cess. Doors will be closed, but bigger quitting, speaks volumes to self- believe in yourself, even when no one and better ones will be opened for us. worth. Value yourself enough to com- nstead of making another New else will. Ignore those people who say How will you look at what happens in mit to some kind of change that Year’s resolution that you’ve that it can’t be done. They don’t know. your life? Perception matters. Be the makes you a better person. To grow, Iprobably made before, why not More importantly, even if they did, driver of your destiny. choose not to quit. Choose to treat decide to commit not to quit on your- they already quit. My former Pastor frequently said yourself with dignity, moving toward self! Anybody can quit. It’s exactly Dreams are meant to come true; that “you must look beyond the turn the awesome human being that HE what your adversaries or competitors but can only do so when you make up in the road.” It’s relatively easy to see made you to be. Commit, don’t quit hope you will do, and there’s always your mind to never quit! We encour- down the straight road that many on yourself. You deserve it! a legitimate excuse. But hang in there; age our children never to give up on travel. That’s why most people take have faith. Stay in touch with your their dreams and to put in maximum that route. However, continuing down HAPPY NEW YEAR! dreams and commitment. Your re- effort. The same holds true for us. And a narrow road that has turns and sources are always greater and far the operative word is never. Commit- curves, leaves you uncertain about OLIVE TREE deeper than you ever imagine them to ting not to quit on YOU, is the ulti- what to expect. That’s why it’s re- be. You made it this far, so don’t stop mate resolution! Regardless of the ferred to as “the road less traveled.” BOOKS-N-VOICES now. resolution you make, vowing to stay Faith takes us around the unknown hanks all of our individual cus- Down deep you’ve got what it in the race until you achieve the goal turns and curves. Ttomers, community partners, takes to go the distance. Strap on for should be all that matters. Have you ever noticed that the authors, vendors, supporters and the ride, knowing that there will be We get to decide if we are going more committed you are, the harder it friends for allowing us to serve you hills and valleys. Life is full of ups to let fear, worry or negativity be our is to quit? I’m sure that’s by design. as a local community bookstore for and downs. Problems come and go, focus. But that also means we can The longer you commit to something, over 11 years. Looking for books READING TO SUCCEED and more books, one of a kind spe- Sally Fuller heads the Read- cialty items, and a warm, inviting ing Success by 4th Grade atmosphere (with wi-fi), visit us at: (RS4G) initiative for the Give The Gift of Reading Irene E. & George A. Davis By Sally Fuller Foundation, to build com- 97 Hancock Street, munity support and align cause words are free. game of catch up. Springfield, MA 01109 efforts for all Springfield’s I won’t call here for a New …Research suggests that during 413 737-6400 or children to read proficiently on the 3rd grade MCAS. Year’s Resolution, because too often their earliest years, kids from disad- facebook: olivetreebooks-n-voices. www.readby4thgrade.com they are forgotten by early February. vantaged homes don’t hear as robust What I will call for is, as Bruni a variety of words as kids from privi- Dee Webb, Store Manager am moved by the words that Zee Johnson, Owner so eloquently wrote, “The Gift of leged ones, and that’s the prelude to a Frank Bruni wrote in the New Reading.” Because… series of other gaps with bearing on selves, connecting them to a wider York Times, just before Thanks- I “The list of what a child needs in their success in school and beyond. world and filling it with wonder. It’s giving. I will share some quotes from order to flourish is short but nonnego- Early reading is one of the reme- more than fundamental. It’s transfor- his column here, and hope that you tiable. dies. mative.” will use the link below to read his ♥ Food. Shelter. Play. Love. ‘Kids who read more get better For the entire article, which whole column for yourself. ♥ Something else, too, and it’s meted at reading, and because they are better highlights Reading Is Fundamental, a The power of his words res- out in even less equal measure. at reading, it’s easier and more pleas- national nonprofit that provides hun- onates, especially because I have said ♥ Words. A child needs a forest of urable so they read still more,’ said dreds of thousands of free books to many times that my mother, a teacher words to wander through, a sea of Daniel Willingham, a professor of children age 8 or younger, in particu- of senior high school English for 45 words to splash in. A child needs psychology at the University of Vir- lar those from economically disad- years, gave me words. I have also said to be read to, and a child needs to ginia and the author of ‘Raising Kids vantaged homes, where books are a that when I first heard of the Hart-Ris- read. who Read.’ ‘And kids who read well greater luxury and in shorter supply, ley study done 20 years ago which ♥ Reading fuels the fires of intelli- don’t just do better in English class – please go to: identified the “30-million-word-gap,” gence and imagination, and if they it helps them in math, science and http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/25 I was immediately struck by the im- don’t blaze well before elementary every other class, too.’’ /opinion /the-gift-of- portance of parents and caregivers school , a child’s education – a Bruni says, “I’d go even further. reading.html?emc=edit_th_20151125&nl =todaysheadlines&nlid=36981446&_r=1 giving words to their children. Be- child’s life – may be an endless Reading tugs them outside of them- afam point of view page eight january 1, 2016 EDUCATION EDUCATION & HOPE

Gianna Allentuck is an Adjustment Counselor at An Open Letter to our Presidential Candidates Elias Brookings School, Volunteer, Wife and see my own children go to the movies work with as many students as we can being used in the right way. People ac- Mother. For questions without bulletproof blankets and my to help build these skills, but there is tually need to pay attention to mental or comments on uniting in hope, call school children eat in the cafeteria such a great need that not all will be and spiritual health deficiencies or (703) 930-0243 without having to look over their helped, leaving some to continue on disabilities not just blame or use them shoulder. Millions of others like me with violent acts as they grow as a way to antagonize Black Lives continued from page 1 want to vote with our hearts but we older. This is just my school – now Matter reps or stir the racial pot. The And we must. Because some of need a leader to emerge for this cause picture the whole Country. mental health proponents and the these children grow into adults who in order to do so. Whoever hears us And consider this: With the ex- greater spiritual communities – be- don’t know how to react peacefully to could be that leader. ception of the terrorists raised on for- yond just faith-based – need help get- accidental or intentional conflict. And Certainly, there are experts way eign soil, the domestic shooters – not ting their voice out there. They need the results sometimes are deadly. more knowledgeable than me on these only in mass shootings but in drive- help raising awareness for the truths I want you to hear us on topics, but this is my perspective as a bys, domestic violence, armed rob- behind the matter. that. Talk about that. School Adjustment Counselor (social, beries, acts of revenge etc. – grew up We need a strong leadership Because I am not an expert on emotional, behavioral) in an urban in our towns and cities. Attended our voice to genuinely and actively ad- anything other than my own heart, I setting where access to guns and gun public or private schools. We saw dress the mental health and spiritual very rarely share my thoughts on is- violence is prevalent; and as a com- them – see them – at an early age. health needs of our Country and help sues tainted by politics or policies, but munity volunteer for task forces and What if we had been able to ad- people pay attention regarding the I feel so strongly regarding this issue committees attempting to prevent vi- dress the deficiencies because some- roots of the violence in addition to ad- and think I can support positive olence not through gun control or one like you listened? And acted? dressing access to the tools. change by educating from the laws, but through investigating the I know that mental health seems I get it cannot be one or the other, heart. From the ground. Not a soap- root causes of what makes people to be the catch phrase right now in the but I am on the ground here. Step box, podium, or stage resting high on choose to end another’s life and often media regarding these senseless acts down. Join me. ■ a political agenda. their own. of violence, but mental health is not Right now, you are ping-ponging As a Counselor, I am trained to NEW BOOK RELEASE buzz words and terminology that you look for the root of the behavior. I think will make us listen to you. Vote know that my students who demon- Education: Our Foundation for you. I won’t; unless you start lis- strate aggressive or injurious behav- By Gianna Allentuck tening first. If you do, you could break iors don’t come to school thinking I Heroes often are born from adversity and tragedy. away from the pack and establish am going to stab my peer with a pen- Whispers of courage that blow through the black cloud of that despair. yourself as someone who actually cil or throw my book at the teacher – Educators are heroes despite that adversity. wants to get to the root of the problem despite having easy access to those versus continuing the wasteful back materials. The instant the student Winds of hope that swirl stronger than any storm… and forth for politics sake. chooses or on impulse uses the pencil Think of the niche – millions of or book for harm, that material be- Educators, Counselors, Mental health comes a “weapon” but for the 99.9% providers, Mentors, community work- of the rest of the time the material is a ers, etc. – who would love to have a learning tool. President who wants to help our My job is to investigate why the clients gain rights and services versus student took that action versus saying a President who wants to take away or “well, he should not have had access restrict some rights just for the sake of to the pencil or she should not have the battle. If you change the course of had access to the book.” Most often the bus, you can pick up millions of when we look for the root cause, we people like me who are tired of the find an emotional management defi- Education: Our Foundation by Gianna Allentuck is a collection of essays political nonsense blocking investiga- ciency, impulse control deficiency, de- published in the Point of View and photographs that capture and celebrate the tion into the roots and resolutions for tachment, or spiritual deficiency – not beauty and essence of Education, Community, and Hope and is being distrib- the problems. in a wholly religious sense, but more uted in exchange for a $25.00 donation as a fundraiser for local schools. It There is much research to sup- so in a sense that life is just not will make a cherished gift and is the perfect coffee table book for everyone port my thoughts, but the most impor- deemed precious anymore. And the who cares about education. Copies are available by contacting the author at tant fact is that I am speaking from my student does not have the coping skills 703.930.0243, Point of View at 413.796.1500 and Olive Tree Books-n-Voices heart – no hidden agenda other than to to deal with the deficiency. We can at 413.737.6400. afam point of view page nine january 1, 2016 EDUCATION EARLY EDUCATION & CARE Happy New Year! Nicole Blais is Director of Community Engagement HCS Goal Setting with Head Start Families Head Start, Inc. By Nicole Blais [email protected] healthy relationships classes, father involvement activities, becoming a oal is really another word for classroom volunteer, and financial lit- resolution and with the ar- eracy workshops can help parents Grival of the New Year, what reach their personal goals. better time to think about what you As stated in Head Start’s Parent want to accomplish throughout the and Family and Community Engage- next 12 months. Parents are their ment Framework, strong and positive child’s first teachers and are con- staff-family partnerships are part of stantly making sure their children’s the foundation for family learning. As needs are met often before their own. equal partners, families and staff are Head Start offers a place for parents all learners. When the program envi- to think about what they want for ronment encourages sharing knowl- themselves and for their families. edge and skills, families, staff, and HCS has a team of dedicated staff members called Family Service Coor- children benefit. Make 2016 the very best year dinators, who are ready to help par- Pat Gadson, Family Service Coordinator for HCS Head Start ents identify, set and achieve their for you and your family. From all goals. When families form positive pate in while their child is in pre- of us here at HCS Head Start, Head Start understands that par- partnerships with programs, families school. Parent meetings, parenting or Happy New Year! ■ ents who embrace the role of their can develop their own goals and feel child’s first and most influential in control over both their own learn- teacher help to encourage their child’s ing and their children’s learning. It’s not too late to willingness to learn. Head Start also Helping parents set long-term goals as understands that with the hustle and well as short-term goals can help register for Spring bustle of everyday life, parents some- make learning a lifelong practice. Semester Classes! times do not get a moment to think Justina Umezuruike, another Family about the future and thinking about a Services Coordinator here at HCS CClasseslasses BegBeginin January 2255 Head Start, says, “I was working with formal process of setting goals may TTaake advantagadvantage of our a mother who struggles to read but feel overwhelming. This is where our EXTRA HOURS and SERVICES now is an excellent reader working on dedicated staff comes into play and (located in Building 27) meets families where they are and getting her GED.” She credits her suc- helps take them to where it is they cess to the relationships she has devel- Super Saturday! would like to go. Whether that is back oped with her families. “I love my job January 9 9:00am–3:00pm because I learn new things about my- to finish school, secure housing or Late Registration! build upon their parenting skills, our self and about the world every single January 11–15 team is ready. Pat Gadson, Family day. Learning is central. I learn from Monday–Thursday: 8am–7pm Friday: 8am–4pm Services Coordinator at HCS Head my families which is the key to suc- Start for the past seven years, shares cess in my job.” HCS Head Start offers respon- EEPPTED! that “each family comes with different et ACCCE ly and G circumstances and skills. I assist them sive parent and family engagement ApplyApppl and Get ACCEPTED!dvvisor wwwwww.stcc.edu.stcc.edu ith an Ad opportunities for families to partici- MMeeteet withw an Advisores to reach their targeted goals.” r Class eggiister fo Please follow, subscribe, comment, like, tweet, read or (413)(413) 755-3333755-3333 RRegister for Classes explore our website at: www.afampointofview.com PLUS:PLUS: The offices for or www.afampov.com Admissions, Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and Springfield TTechnicalTeechnical RegistrarRegistrar will be open until Community College www.facebook.com/AfAmPointofView 7pm, JanuaryJanuary 4–74–7.7.. afam point of view page ten january 1, 2016 BUSINESS & FINANCE CELEBRATING LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS New Commerce Department Data Shows that Minority Entrepreneurship is Growing WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Com- main between their revenue and nonminority (176,245) in 2012 than any other metro area be- merce today released the final results of the U.S. companies in our economy,” said Director sides the New York metro area (250,890). Census Bureau’s 2012 Survey of Business Owners Castillo. “MBDA is committed to eliminating dis- ● Hawaii was the only state in 2012 in which the parities in access to capital and contracts so that (SBO), which found that business ownership in our majority (51.5 percent) of all firms were Asian- nation is mirroring our increasingly diverse popu- minority businesses may fully participate in the owned. California ranked second with 17.0 per- lation. Minority-owned firms in the U.S. rose from economy. Next year, MBDA will invest nearly 5.8 million in 2007 to 8.0 million in 2012, and em- $13.4 million in grants to continue to support the cent. ployed 7.2 million people in 2012. While the num- growth and expansion of Minority Business Enter- ● Among the 50 most populous U.S. cities, New ber of minority-owned businesses increased by 2.2 prises (MBE)s.” York, NY had the most Hispanic-owned firms million, the number of non-minority- owned busi- with 199,085. El Paso, TX and Miami, FL had nesses declined by 1.1 million, from 20.1 million Regional highlights from the final 2012 SBO the highest proportion of Hispanic-owned firms in 2007 to 18.9 million in 2012. data: “The Commerce Department is committed to ● California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Geor- with 73.9 percent and 69.2 percent, respec- supporting all of America’s businesses, and ensur- gia remain the states with the highest numbers tively. ing that small and minority-owned firms in partic- of minority-owned businesses. ● California led all states in the number of ular have the tools they need to thrive,” said ● California led all states with 1.6 million minor- women-owned firms in 2012, with 1.3 million. National Director for Minority Business Alejandra ity-owned firms in 2012. Los Angeles County, Y. Castillo. “The Department’s Minority Business Calif., led the nation in the number of Hispanic- To access the detailed SBO data, visit Development Agency (MBDA) has been a proud , Asian-, and American Indian and Alaska Na- and steadfast partner to our nation’s 8 million mi- tive-owned firms in 2012. It also ranked second http://www.census.gov/econ/sbo/getdata.html. ■ nority-owned businesses, to better equip these in the number of Black or African American- firms to create jobs and increase revenues. and Native Hawaiian From 2007 to 2012, the percentage of minor- and other Pacific Is- Calling All Minority, Women and ity-owned firms increased from 22 percent to 29 lander-owned firms. percent of the total number of U.S. firms. Hispanic- ● Georgia had more Veteran-Owned Businesses owned firms increased by 46.3 percent from 2.4 Black or African million to 3.3 million. The number of Native American-owned +*)('&%$#"! #! #)$#! #)%#''%$ Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander firms rose firms in 2012 than by Appointment Only to Information Sessions 45.3 percent from 37,687 to 54,749. Black or any other state )#""#'&%($#*'#&% African American-owned firms rose from 1.9 to (256,848), followed 2.6 million, and the number of Asian-owned firms by Florida (251,216). %$%#"! #  ## climbed from 1.5 million to 1.9 million. The Atlanta metro !  # ## #  #% # # “This new Census Bureau data under- area had more Black  # #  ##! ##!##! # or African American- scores the rapid growth in minority-owned   #!##  ##!   #! # owned firms firms. Nonetheless, considerable disparities re- #  ###   ### # ## %#$ #  ###  # #  ###% # # # ##%$%#"! # ! ##   # ##!  

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Building Excitement. ! 
 afam point of view page eleven january 1, 2016 BUSINESS & FINANCE CELEBRATING LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS Home Modification Loan Program Can Improve Mobility and Accessibility ith the onset of winter bility and mobility through home Economic Development Assistance through home modifications, we en- weather—when people modifications that will allow them to Corporation (CEDAC). PVPC serves courage you to apply to the program. are spending more time remain in their homes and live more as the service provider for all of Berk- W Please visit PVPC’s website at indoors—the Pioneer Valley Planning independent lives. Some examples of shire and Franklin counties and por- Commission (PVPC) reminds eligi- these modifications include stair lifts, tions of Hampshire and Hampden www.pvpc.org to find more informa- ble property owners to take advan- ramps, widening of doorways, and al- counties. HAP, Inc. is the service tion about income guidelines and tage of the Home Modification Loan terations of bathrooms and kitchens, provider for those residents living in loan options. For more information, Program (HMLP), which can in- etc. as well as specialized improve- Springfield, Chicopee, Holyoke, crease the living comfort for those ments to address sensory and cogni- Northampton, Westfield, West please contact Shirley Stephens or persons hindered by their current tive disabilities. Springfield, and Agawam. John O’Leary at (413) 781-6045 or non-accessible living arrangements. The program’s funding is pro- The HMLP program has pro- by e-mail at [email protected] and The HMLP is a program de- vided through a state-funded loan vided loans to hundreds of people in [email protected]. For those com- signed to allow adults and children program of the Massachusetts Reha- western Massachusetts and across the with physical, sensory, and cognitive bilitation Commission (MRC), in col- state. If you are considering improv- munities served by HAP, Inc., please disabilities to improve their accessi- laboration with the Community ing your mobility and accessibility call (413) 233-1615. ■

413-273-4022

Specializing in Siding, Repairs on siding, Insulation, Windows, Roofing, Drywall, Flooring, Painting and much more!

Advertising, Brochures, Construction, Weddings, Portraits, Products, Digital Photography, etc... Ed Cohen Photography 413-244-1344 [email protected] afam point of view page twelve january 1, 2016 HEALTH HEALTH MATTERS “Health Matters” Talk Show Returns to WTCC By Doris Harris at 1:00 pm. Health matter’s talk show Doris Harris, Editor Prevention Specialist will bring you the latest information Caring Health in Health education, interview med- Center, Inc. Doris can be ical personnel and health programs contacted at offered in the community. So please WTCC is your source for music - from jazz to R&R oldies, [email protected] stay tuned to health matters exclu- gospel to salsa, R&B to blues, Motown and more, ealth matters is returning to sively on WTTC 90.7 fm and as well as Caribbean, Portuguese, Latino, Polish, Greek, Native American and Italian programming - WTCC 90.7 fm on Wednesdays WTTC.org. ■ H plus talk shows with local hosts discussing local issues.

Your all-volunteer community radio station broadcasting 24/7 from the campus of STCC www.wtccfm.org

Doris Harris afam point of view page thirteen january 1, 2016

Cindi’s Breast Cancer Treatment Plan

BREAST SURGERY RADIATION THERAPY KEEPING UP WITH HER DANCE STUDENTS

Cindi M. from Springfield shares her cancer journey at baystatecancerexperts.org

Of all the places in the world to rreceiveeceive cancer trtreatment,eatment, one stands out. In fact, therthere’se’s no place like it. WWithith the Baystate Regional Cancer PrProgram,ogram, you have access to some of the country’country’ss best cancer experts BaysBaystatetate Regional and the latest trtreatmenteatment options right in westerwesternn Massachusetts. As part of a teaching hospital, the Baystate Regional Cancer PrProgramogram CancCancerer PrProgramogram ofoffersfers an exceptional patient experience wherewhere you will be treated,treated, 413-794-9338 guided, and supported along your unique jourjourneyney to recovery.recovery.

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CS158941 afam point of view page fourteen january 1, 2016 HEALTH COMMUNITY HEALTH MATTERS COMMUNITY INFORMATION Annual Dr. King Day Celebration he annual Dr. King Day Celebration will take Tplace on Monday Janu- ary 18, 2016. Support Network Helps This year the event is hosted by a collaboration among four area organizations: MLK, Jr People Living With Heart Family Services, D.R.E.A.M Studios, Community Music Disease, Stroke School of Springfield and Springfield College—bringing SPRINGFIELD – November 24, lenges in their heart disease or stroke our community together to honor 2015 — A life-changing medical di- recovery. The monitored online com- the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther agnosis can be frightening. The munity offers people a place to ask King, Jr. The celebration will American Heart Association/Ameri- questions, share concerns or fears, take place from 11:00 a.m. to can Stroke Association now has re- 1:00 p.m. at the Mass Mutual sources to help in the emotional and provide helpful tips and find encour- Center located at 1277 Main physical recovery of heart disease agement and inspiration. Street, Springfield. and stroke survivors and those caring Some people may prefer more Dr. King Day Celebration for them. personal interaction, and that’s where will feature music, dance and The Support Network offers an face-to-face community-based sup- spoken work, providing inspira- online community, as well as materi- port groups can be beneficial. The on- tion and reflection on the legacy als for starting face-to-face commu- of Dr. King, toward greater understanding and mutual creativity for the bet- nity-based support groups and line Support Network houses all the terment of the community. This event is free and open to the public. All resources for healthier living. The tools and resources needed to start an ages are welcome. The Mass Mutual Center is handicapped accessible and is goal is to connect people living with in-person support group, including located in downtown Springfield, close to public transportation. For more in- heart disease and stroke with others train-the-trainer materials for group formation call 413-732-8428. ■ who are going through similar jour- leaders, checklists for building neys. Research shows the stress of groups and even sample agendas for dealing with an illness can impact meetings. Support groups can also set health. A study from the Journal of up an online meeting space where the American Heart Association members can stay in touch between found that a general lack of social in-person meetings. support is associated with poor health and quality of life and depression in young men and women a year after Additional Resources: having a heart attack. • American Heart Association/ The person who’s had a heart at- American Stroke Association tack or stroke isn’t the only one im- Support Network: pacted by these life-changing events. The stress of caring for a disabled www.heart.org/supportnetwork spouse can significantly raise the and caregiver’s risk of future stroke, es- www.strokeassociation.org/sup- pecially among African-American portnetwork. men, according to a study in the jour- nal, Stroke. The Thomas family celebrates Sharing stories, experiences and • Information for caregivers: practical advice can make a positive www.heart.org/caregivers Thanksgiving impact in how survivors face chal- afam point of view page fifteen january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES

Bishop An Open Letter about Donald Trump Talbert W. Swan, II is Pastor of The Spring Of States on blacks and Latinos. He racism and exclusion, which have galized lynchings where racial ten- Hope Church Of God tweeted that the “overwhelming long hindered African Americans sions are escalating on a daily basis. In Christ amount of violent crime in our major from full participation in the Ameri- Yet, in spite of this climate, Donald cities is committed by blacks and can dream. Mr. Trump stands against Trump has fanned the flames that Hispanics” and invited his Twitter everything necessary for the advance- burn in the fires of racial polarization. continued from page 1 followers to discuss the “tough sub- ment of the African American com- He is our modern day Trent Lott, to throw in a few more ingredients: ject.” Mr. Trump was the mouthpiece munity and embodies everything that Strom Thurmond and David Duke. arrogance, ignorance, callousness, for the birther movement and repeat- is wrong with race relations in our na- As Savali so eloquently put it, “If the and narcissism to name a few. edly opined that President Barack tion. Ku Klux Klan had lobbying power, Recently, 100 African American Obama was not born in the United Yet, against the backdrop of he would be its favored candidate.” pastors met with Donald Trump in a States. He has consistently criticized everything Donald Trump represents, While many of my peers have closed door meeting to hear the can- the Black Lives Matter movement on the precipice of a presidential elec- noted that their mission was not to didate and to consider endorsing him and insinuated that it is a hate group. tion, black pastors felt a divine call to endorse Mr. Trump, but to listen to for president. While I fully support He also criticized those who he said meet with a man who has expressed what he has to say, I submit that he’s the rights of my peers to meet with have “catered” to Black Lives Matter no interest in addressing the great never been short on words. He’s long candidates running for elected office, activists. Speaking of which, Mr. concerns of our time: mass incarcer- since said enough for us to know that I remind them that just because you Trump had a Black Lives Matter ac- ation, voting rights, police brutality, he is neither fit to be President of the can do something doesn’t mean you tivist thrown out of one of his rallies. disparities in the criminal justice sys- United States nor to be supported or ought to. This is what Apostle Paul tem, economic development in de- endorsed by anyone who represents meant in 1 Corinthians 10:23 when After Trump’s supporters roughed up the activist, Mr. Trump noted that the pressed communities, racism, sexism, oppressed people. We need leaders in he said, “All things are lawful for me, etc. My simple question is, why? the African American community but all things are not expedient: all activist deserved to be assaulted. Since Mr. Trump has been on What could Mr. Trump say at this who will not be pawns of any politi- things are lawful for me, but all stage of the game to convince any cal party, but will stand up for the things edify not.” This meeting was the campaign trail he has said that Mexicans should be deported because person of color that he hasn’t meant best interests of their constituents. We particularly concerning because we what he has already said regarding need pastors who will stand against know who Donald Trump is. In case “they are rapists and criminals.” He has erroneously stated that Muslim the issues that concern our communi- injustice and will not easily acquiesce my peers have forgotten, allow me to ties? I understand some of my peers to the whims of public figures simply remind them who Mr. Trump has re- Americans are the primary perpetra- tors of terrorist acts in this country al- have noted that Mr. Trump is the front for an opportunity to be in the room. vealed himself to be. runner and, therefore, we should We are the prophetic voice needed in Donald Trump is the man who though it is a proven fact that white males hold that dubious distinction. meet. If the grand wizard of the Ku a nation sorely in need of a moral told Matt Lauer on the Today Show Klux Klan were the front runner, compass and fearless voices for jus- that “President Obama is the inner He has gone so far as to talk about banning mosques and calling for a would we be so inclined to meet? I tice. In the words of Dr. James Cone, city’s only role model,” but “unfortu- submit that there is very little differ- “any authentic theology must affirm mandatory registry for Muslim Amer- nately, he hasn’t turned out to be ence in meeting with Mr. Trump. that God is on the side of the op- icans. Time after time, Donald Trump much of [one].” He is the man who We are living in a season of le- pressed.” ■ advocated for the death penalty for has pandered to white racists through five teenage black boys known as the birther fear mongering, questioning Central Park 5, who were convicted President Obama’s worthiness to at- for raping a jogger. Even after their tend an ivy league school, blaming Happy New convictions were vacated as a result the unrest in Baltimore over the mur- of DNA evidence, Trump held fast to der of Freddy Gray on the President his belief that they had to be guilty as and the mayor of Baltimore and refer- he asked, “What were they doing in ring to the protesters as “thugs.” the park, playing checkers?” Think- The list of racist remarks, ac- ing that five black high schoolers in tions, insinuations and insults from a park seemed suspicious is the same Mr. Trump are too numerous to name. kind of thinking that caused the mur- He is the epitome of white su- The staff of POV thank all of our advertisers, der of Trayvon Martin at the hands of premacy, bigotry, and everything that writers and readers for a successful 2015 and George Zimmerman. stands against freedom, justice and wish all of you and your families a healthy and Donald Trump has repeatedly equality for communities of color and prosperous new year. tweeted false statistics, foisting the all disenfranchised groups. Mr. blame for violence in the United Trump thrives on the playground of afam point of view page sixteen january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY LATIN@ GROOVE New Year, New Voices By Magdalena Gómez

Magdalena Gómez is the see the world through the eyes of Co-founder and Artistic young people. I must make sure they Director of Springfield’s understand that I want to know how From L to R: first and only they truly feel and not imply by infer- Latin@theater, Assistant Principal, Teatro V!da. ence, or otherwise, that they should Ms. Gómez has been a tell me what they think I want to hear. Ms. Gladys Franco, teaching artist for The truth and authenticity of their Savion Ramirez, over 35 years. voices are invaluable to the better- Davion Bryant, hroughout my over forty years ment of society as a whole. Ajiell Gonzalez and as a teaching artist, it has been As an Artist-in-Residence at the Anahi Morales Tmy experience that youth are Springfield Conservatory of the Arts, seldom consulted in meaningful ways I recently asked ninth grade students regarding the big decisions of educa- to share about their school experi- tion that have enduring impact on ences. They responded clearly, can- their lives. This lack of venue for stu- didly and respectfully. As a dent voices and the inevitable feeling follow-up, I then invited them to take Photo by Magdalena Gómez of powerlessness that human beings a look at the big picture of education inflation, stocks, handling money, works. Other “Life” classes they of any age feel when their ideas are in the United States and what they balancing a checkbook, applying for would like to see in every school in- not invited or valued, have serious would like to see implemented to college loans and scholarships, insur- clude subjects of immediate concern consequences. Teaching students benefit all students. We included dis- ance, credit and debit cards, budget- to teenagers: drugs, peer pressure, what to think, not how to think, what course on student responsibility in ing, how bills work, how banking to learn, and not how to learn, creates transforming schools. I asked them if continues to page 19 a disengaged, easily manipulated, ap- they would be willing to share their athetic and dispassionate population. perspectives and ideas with you, POV In the United States we allowed two readers, and every student present stolen elections by a war criminal that day agreed. I share with you the President who still walks free, and results of their small group brain- Donald Trump is rising in popularity. storming and note-taking sessions. The bulk of daily human interaction These are the results of three different takes place via screens and cyber- classes, completed within a 47- space. Over half of the students enter- minute classroom period for each ing college need remedial training, group. Over half of the period was and we are becoming an economic spent providing context, introducing oligarchy. We also have the highest students to this newspaper, and help- incarceration rate in the world. ing them begin to trust that their Human interaction, respectful debate voices and actions have the power to and active engagement in designing effect change. The overlap of ideas our learning and our lives, needs to from three very dynamically different begin in early childhood and normal- groups was remarkable. They had no ized as viable and necessary through- advance notice of this activity. Here out the educational process. were their ideas, gathered in about In large part, I owe my success twenty minutes in each class. as a teaching artist to the students “Life 101 classes everywhere, who have always informed my work, high school and kids” was reported Syringe Girl, 2015. Imo imeh and to the educators and administra- by one group. The common thread TEN LITTLE NIGGER GIRLS tors who champion my choices of was: “Teach us about things that are ARTIST: IMO IMEH student inclusion in the decision mak- really going to help us in life.” FEBRUARY 2–27, 2016 ing process. I see the world through Among the things they want to learn, RECEPTION: FEBRUARY 4, 4:30–6:30 P.M. an adult lens and the privileges that financial literacy was in the top three. SNOW DATE FEBRUARY 10 come with age. I must constantly find Students were very specific on the CHECK WESTFIELD.MA.EDU/EVENTS FOR INFO the humility and patience to learn to topic: understanding taxes, mortgage, afam point of view page seventeen january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PIONEER VALLEY POLITICAL HAPPENINGS - SPRINGFIELD “A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Making College Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. More Affordable “Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she By Sen. Eric P. Lesser With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, his winter break, college stu- (up to $5000 per Eric P. Lesser The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. dents are bringing home more year) for contribu- Send these, the homeless, tempest-toss to me, Tthan just loads of laundry: tions made to qualified college sav- I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” Ezra Lazurus they’re also bringing mounting loads ings and 529 plans. Similar to an of debt. IRA, these plans allow families to Becoming the Woman Student debt is a simmering cri- save and pay for college tax-free. sis for young adults and their fami- More than 30 states already provide lies. Nationally, 40 million people incentives to invest in these types of with the Torch owe more than $1.2 trillion in student plans. We need to catch up. Lora Wondolowski loans. In Massachusetts, the average I also support a bill that provides Lora Wondolowski, lost-boys and refugees from genocide student loan debt has increased by full tuition, after financial aid and gift Director of Leadership in Sudan and other countries in Africa nearly 75 percent over the past aid, for all residents who attend com- Pioneer Valley, she is have come to the Springfield area. decade, from $17,000 to more than munity college in Massachusetts, passionate about strengthening the They all have left unimaginable cir- $29,000. As college costs continue modeled after a highly successful Pioneer Valley. cumstances to brave unfamiliar shores rise, this will only get worse. program in Tennessee. Community Contact her at away from home, friends, and family. Simply put, this is unfair and un- colleges educate nearly half of Mas- 413-737-3876 or sachusetts college students, training www.leadershippv.org All of these refugees have added to sustainable, both for families strug- the richness of our communities by gling to pay tuition bills, and for our them for valuable careers while also ast month, Leadership Pioneer bringing new perspectives, ideas, and wider society, which benefits tremen- offering an affordable path to a 4-year Valley focused on inclusive ways of doing things. They have dously from a well-educated work- degree. leadership in our core leader- L started new businesses, become our force. Skyrocketing debt is forcing There are also innovative pro- ship program. Our leaders dug deep co-workers, community leaders, and young adults to delay marriage, home grams happening locally that we can into themselves to explore differences, married friends and family. We are ownership and family-building. Stu- use as models. STCC and Westfield micro-aggressions and ways to en- better off because they are in our dent debt pushes graduates out of es- State, for example, set up a transfer hance understanding of one another. midst. sential but lower-paying public program for students to graduate with There were frank discussions that Leadership calls upon those service jobs like teaching. As a recent a bachelor’s degree at a maximum 4 built trust and better ways to talk to who presume to be leaders to make year total cost of $30,000 in tuition law school graduate, homeowner, and each other about difficult subjects. We difficult decisions during tumultuous and mandatory fees. This approach young father, I’m familiar with these are incredibly proud of our cohort for times. Inclusive leadership is not al- gives families a highly valuable tool types of financial strains. their honesty and willingness to be un- ways easy. It can be hard to include while saving for college: a fixed sav- I also know that in many cases, comfortable in order to be better lead- those that others perceive as “differ- ings target. rising costs and a weak job market ers. ent” or a “threat”. Inclusive leadership Massachusetts is a global center have combined to force many young This day was in stark juxtapo- relies on leaders that can bring out our of education and knowledge. A people to forgo college altogether. sition to the current discourse in this “better angels” when the task is diffi- highly educated population is the key These are some of the reasons why country around Syrian refugees. Many cult. Being truly inclusive calls upon to our economic future. Alarmingly, I’m so committed to tackling this governors (including our own), mem- us to move along a scale from repug- while other states like Indiana and issue in the Senate. bers of Congress, and other leaders nance to tolerance to finally accept- Tennessee are taking significant steps This year, for example, I joined have suggested closing our doors to ance. Leaders can model the way by to make college affordable, Massa- these exiles in need. Our communities taking risks and showing others how a bipartisan group of legislators to chusetts is increasingly falling be- are filled with refugees from around to be inclusive. I call to mind the override $5.2 million in funding cuts hind. the globe, yet some want to single out church leaders in Indiana who have to UMass. I also voted to give UMass In this knowledge-based econ- one group undergoing a humanitarian drawn the ire of their governor for ac- the ability to directly keep in-state tu- omy, a college degree has never been crisis. In the 1970s and 80s, Viet- cepting refugees into their homes. ition dollars paid by students, im- more important. Unfortunately, rising namese refugees and immigrants That is true leadership. To be inclusive proving transparency and finally costs have also made it increasingly came to the US and Springfield-area. leaders, we must become the woman aligning UMass with the vast major- out of reach, robbing young people of Central American refugees fleeing with the torch lighting the way to ac- ity of other state universities. their full potential. We can change dictators and war settled in the ceptance and tolerance so others can In addition, I support a bill that that. ■ Amherst area in the 1980s. Recently, follow the way. ■ would create an income tax deduction afam point of view page eighteen january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS Hampden District Attorney’s Office Adopts 64 Kids for Christmas

Putnam Vocational Technical Academy Students Awarded Over $700,000 In Merit Scholarships

SPRINGFIELD, MA – Members of thony D. Gulluni stated, “I am so Hampden District Attorney Anthony proud of the many members of my D. Gulluni’s Office played Santa staff who stepped forward and exhib- Claus this holiday season by provid- ited such generosity for these kids. ing gifts for sixty-four needy children. The kids involved in this initiative In partnership with Massachusetts So- come from some difficult circum- ciety for the Prevention of Cruelty to stances and this helps to give them a Children (MSPCC), members of the joyful experience during the holiday DA’s office adopted the children and season. ” shopped for gifts that were delivered The gifts collected were picked to the kids on Christmas. This year up by the Massachusetts Society for members of the office donated over the Prevention of Cruelty to Children $10,000 in gifts, which helped and distributed by clinicians assigned brighten Christmas morning for chil- to the children. The District Attor- dren who might not otherwise have ney’s Office was given a “wish list” had gifts to unwrap. of the adopted children to assist them Hampden District Attorney An- in buying gifts. ■

SPRINGFIELD ― December 3, over $700,000 in merit scholarships. Pioneer Valley Performing Arts 2015 ― Gear UP college preparation Putnam’s administration is exu- Charter Public School program and Putnam Vocational berantly expecting to top the more Technical Academy are hosting their than 100 senior applications that were is now accepting applications for the 2016-2017 school year lottery. Information about PVPA and online applications are available on our website. At the time of the lottery there are only annual Massachusetts College Appli- submitted last year by a landslide. Participating colleges are: UMASS slots available in 7th grade. Applicants for grades 8 -11 are placed on a waiting list. cation Celebration (MCAC). Putnam Questions or to request a paper application, contact Amanda Melemed at 413-552-1580, x114, is opening its doors to over 15 col- Amherst, AIC, Nichols’ College, or [email protected]. Becker College, Anna Maria, West- leges, the majority of which are re- The deadline for receiving applications is Fri., Jan. 29th, 2016. viewing applications and providing field State College, Springfield Col- lege, HCC, STCC, and several others. PVPA • 15 Mulligan Drive • South Hadley, MA acceptance letters on the spot to qual- www.pvpa.org ified students. On Day One of the GEAR UP is a federally funded partner- PVPA is open to all students on a space-available basis. Per MA General Laws, Chapter 76: Section 5, PVPA shall not discriminate on the basis of race, event, Putnam students were accepted ship of MassEdCO and Valley Opportu- color, national origin, creed, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age, ancestry, athletic to several colleges and were offered nity Council             
afam point of view page nineteen january 1, 2016 LATIN@ GROOVE New Year, New Voices continued from page 16 it;” “settle things with safe sex, family, “the streets,” hygiene, mental positive communica- health, how to complete job applications (“they tion;” “don’t use stereo- should be available in more languages”); students types;” “no weapons;” From L to R: would like schools to offer the option of taking on- “avoid people you dis- Melissa Carrasquillo, line classes and more freedom to choose what they like to avoid drama;” Zailie Diaz, “surround yourself with want to learn and focus on. They were also con- Ailey Moore, cerned with having time to interact in meaningful positive things, see the bright side of every- Blessyd Cotto and ways to build trust with their peers and teachers. Jalisa Stewart Students suggested that schools focus less on thing;” “react with standardized testing and more on hands-on learn- joy;” “compliment peo- ing and community building within school and be- ple;” “share;” “stand up yond it. They all showed concern for disruptive for others, tell an adult students: “Students that act up daily need extra if you witness bully- help.” “Reward good behavior: field trips, snacks, ing.” A common thread was “practice random free time.” One student made a suggestion regard- Photo by Magdalena Gómez acts of kindness.” ing bringing artists into the schools: “For each art “More service learning projects” was a desire Ortiz; Dason Velazquez; Alexa Connors; Nathan class we should have a professional to give us ad- heard in every group, along with “help our com- Morales; Chris Girard; Eric Estevez; Zailie Keil- vice on the things we want to do ourselves that can munity.” Again, the application of “real life learn- iannie; Jalisa Stewart; Ailey “Rizzle”; Blessyd be graded.” The majority of the students wanted to ing” was reiterated, this time in the form of Cotto; Melissa Carrasquillo; Ajiell Gonzalez; see the arts integrated throughout the school day. community service, such as: “raise money for char- Anahi Morales; Davion Bryant; Brianna Nortez; Some wanted shorter days, others asked for longer ity;” “plant flowers, trees and plants;” “community Yaidalies C.R.; Adriana Rodriguez; Priscillah days so that could have extra time for help with cleaning...with students from all different schools;” Wanambisi; Kimberly Colón Rosado; Alexa Ar- “understanding the work.” Others asked for the “work as a community and fix up the schools;” royo. ■ doing away with uniforms, “the freedom to express “more recycling;” “treat the environ- who we are,” while others asked for more flexibil- ment like its Earth Day every day.” ity with uniforms, such as adding a “secondary One student wrote: “For the young color.” children we can go read to them or help The students went back and forth between the them out with work.” The desire to local and the national; what they wanted for them- help the homeless was also a common selves and their own school and what they would theme with ideas for direct and per- like to see in all schools. The need for “more sonal action, such as “We can make nurses” and “on-call people” for emergencies was food and go around handing it to discussed, along with having the proper supplies them.” Generally, the students showed for dealing with emergencies and illness. They a great desire to be productive and unanimously agreed that schools are in need of helpful citizens in direct engagement “better” food. A reference was also made to “real with their communities. These in- food” and “no canned foods.” cluded bake sales and cultural days that Building safety and trust were top concerns reflect diverse communities. Many ex- about schools in general: “If we stopped bullying, pressed the desire “to learn and expe- we would have more students coming to school. rience something before we have to do We wouldn’t have as many suicides as we do.” it in the real world.” (According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 How can we who are adults en- out of 12 teenagers in the U.S. attempts suicide courage young, authentic voices who every year.) Students had ideas for how to interrupt come to us with their concerns in re- bullying by personal accountability. “We can be- spectful ways? What can we do to in- have and do our work.” “Talk to teachers about sure that they know we are truly making school a safe and better place.” They dis- listening? cussed forming student clubs for ending bullying Participating students (some and daily small steps that can help: “keep personal wished to remain anonymous): space;” “no fights;” “treat others the way you want Cheyenne Eddington; Ally Laliberty; to be treated;” “have self control;” “no judging;” Yulissa Aquino; Keishany Cruzado; Je- “respect adults; use respectful language;” “be a remy I.; Trevor M.; Ian T.; Vanessa leader, not a follower;” “if help is needed, ask for afam point of view page twenty january 1, 2016 Around Town & . . . Springfield Parade of Big Balloons

Aleana Laster brought her anti-bullying message to the The Stone Soul Peter Brace Brigade under the direction of Springfield Parade of the Big Balloons. Commander Ron Brace.

The Red Cross was well-represented by Carolyn McDonald Western Mass Tekniq Dance Majorettes joined in the fun. and grandson, Davian.

Dream Studios as usual did their thing. Representing the Melha Shriners was none other than Curtis Bosworth. afam point of view page twenty-one january 1, 2016 . . .In The Community

Lighting of the Kinara Candles took place at the A Shark Tank event was held at STTC where local students presented University of Massachusetts in Amherst at the Kwanzaa celebration. their business plans to business professionals and were awarded prizes and recognitions.

The Springfield Central High School cheerleaders cheer on the Division One Western Mass Champion Central High School football team during the recent state semi-final football game held at Westfield State University.

The Springfield Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and volunteers Dr. Albert and Geri Garner (left), who nominated Donna and held their annual Thanksgiving basket give-away to over Ronn Johnson for the 2015 Pynchon Award, 130 families in the Springfield area. join them at the award ceremony. afam point of view page twenty-two january 1, 2016 BAYSTATE HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC. The New Kid in Town continued from page 1 chased a home in that same neighbor- accomplished wife, Dr. Ann Errichetti, hood that I feared walking in years ago is Chief Executive Officer of St. Peters and could well be among Dr. Hospital in Albany, New York. I was Keroack’s parents’ new friends. impressed that he stopped that evening Dr. Keroack could have easily di- to talk and take a fun photograph with rected his career toward an elite clien- us that our photographer retrieved for tele and affiliated with hospitals that this article. had little contact with those less fortu- Dr. Keroack and his wife met nate. But the HIV/AIDS epidemic had while attending Harvard Medical just emerged and its initial victims School and married after graduating. were homosexuals and African-Amer- They raised two girls, Simone who is icans and few in the medical profes- 31 and a state social worker in Fitch- sion were prepared to cope with it. burg and 29-year-old Elise who is a While serving for 12 years on the fac- web developer in Burlington, Ver- ulty of the University of Massachu- mont. The two girls hold the distinc- setts (his teaching credentials, tion of having broken a two-generation including at Harvard, are far more ex- chain of medical doctors in the tensive), Dr. Keroack took his infec- Keroack family. tious disease practice to areas where it Dr. Keroack was born and raised Marjorie J. Hurst, POV Editor, Frederick A. Hurst, POV Publisher, was most needed, first to Roxbury for in Springfield’s Sixteen Acres neigh- Dr. Mark Keroack, President and Chief Executive Officer of three years and then to Worcester for borhood. His father, Dr. Alvin Baystate Health Systems, Inc. and Suzanne Hendery, Baystate Health’s another six years and back to Brock- Keroack, and mother, Mary Phaneuf Vice President for Marketing & Public Affairs ton/West Roxbury and later to the Keroack, were high school sweet- South Side of Chicago. He feels hearts who married after World War II high school degree and unable to tious diseases and internal medicine, strongly that the exposure to those less ended. His father attended Yale Med- speak English. He taught himself Eng- which eventually led to his exposure fortunate has made him “a much more ical School on the G.I. Bill and, in the lish and the Morse code and became to the inner city experience that he sensitive person.” 50s and 60s, ran a general practice out station master at the Palmer rail sta- missed as a youngster. Which brings me back to Dr. of their Sixteen Acres home while his tion, which Dr. Keroack said “made Springfield’s Sixteen Acres, Keroack’s resume. It is one of the most mother trained at Springfield Hospital for good fun,” as he reminisced about where Dr. Keroack was raised, was an powerful, yet understated, professional (Now Baystate Medical Center) to be- the opportunities for the young grand- all-White neighborhood where Black resumes I’ve ever read. Every step of come a nurse. They had six kids, five kids to experience rides in the trains’ folks walked at their own peril. the way in his career along with his boys and a girl. passenger sections and the engine car. Redlining guaranteed the integrity of clinical practice, Dr. Keroack has as- Back in those days, being a gen- But more important, his immigrant segregated Springfield neighborhoods sumed enormous executive leadership eral practitioner meant going to your grandfather laid the foundation for his and the predominantly White police responsibilities that helped prepare him for his current position as Presi- patients rather than your patients com- son to become a doctor and the foun- force often saw it as a duty to stop and dent and CEO of Baystate Health ing to you, which meant Dr. Keroack’s dation for Mark and his four brothers interrogate interlopers of another where he started in 2011 as Chief father was on twenty-four hour call. to follow suit and for Western Massa- color. Consequently, Dr. Keroack had Physician Executive and President of His friends and neighbors made up his chusetts’ premier hospital to gain the no significant exposure to Black folks. Baystate Medical Practices. He was client base and Dr. Keroack recalls that benefit of Dr. Keroack’s leadership. His parents, products of the times, promoted to Executive Vice President many of his friends were delivered As illustrated by Mark’s circum- were not particularly concerned about and Chief Operating Officer in 2013 into the world by his father, who was stances, none of the six Keroack kids integration. And it was not until Dr. and President and Chief Executive Of- seldom able to finish dinner at home can claim to have had a tough young Keroack attended the integrated Dug- ficer of Baystate Medical Center in with the family because of the calls for life. He attended Our Lady of the Sa- gan Jr. High School that he gained his 2014 and in the next year he was hired medical attention. He also served as cred Heart School, graduated to Dug- first meaningful, though limited, expo- to replace the retiring lawyer, Mark the first chief of Springfield Hospital’s gan Jr. High and then went on to sure to Springfield’s isolated African Tolosky, as President and Chief Exec- emergency room which makes it even Wilbraham Academy from where he American community. But the chang- utive Officer of Baystate Health Sys- that much more intriguing that his son, graduated in the first combined ing neighborhood demographics have tems. Mark, is now the President and Chief Wilbraham/Monson Academy class. long since mellowed his parents’ Many people get confused about Executive Officer of the same hospi- He graduated from Amherst College in views. They have been embraced by the structure of the nonprofit Baystate tal. 1976 and from Harvard Medical their many new African-American Health Systems (Baystate Health) and Theirs is truly an American suc- School in 1980. He did his residency neighbors and have reciprocated in often interchange it with Baystate cess story. Mark’s grandfather arrived at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in kind. It gave me a warm feeling to in America from Canada without a Boston where he specialized in infec- know that my son and his wife pur- continues to page 34 afam point of view page twenty-three january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS Wesley United Methodist Church 2016 Scholarship Award “Keeping it in the Community” oin the Martin Luther King Memorial Later, Dr. McFadden was appointed Scholarship Committee of Wesley to serve Emmanuel United Methodist JUnited Methodist Church at its 34th Church in Palatka, Florida. In June of Annual Scholarship Breakfast on Satur- 1998, Dr. McFadden was appointed by the day, January 16, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. at the late Bishop Cornelius Linton Henderson to Sheraton Monarch Place Hotel, One launch the first-ever African American Monarch Place, Springfield, MA where United Methodist Church in Tallahassee, the Committee will award two $2,500 Florida, Ray of Hope United Methodist scholarships to deserving high school sen- Church. Under Dr. McFadden’s leader- iors. ship, Ray of Hope grew from a small core In June 1964, Dr. Martin Luther group of 5 people to an active congrega- King, Jr. spoke at Springfield College in a tion of over 1,000 ‘Hopemakers.’ riveting commencement address, “History Upon receiving direction from God, At Our Doorstep.” In that speech, Dr. Dr. McFadden felt led to launch a new King famously stated: ministry in Tallahassee, the Community of Faith Church. Community of Faith Church All I am saying is simply this ― that held its first worship service on Sunday, all life is inter-related. We are all tied October 3, 2004 and formally received in a single garment of destiny. What- over 350 persons in membership. At ever affects one directly affects all in- his departure, Community of Faith directly. As long as there is poverty in Church had an active membership this world no one can be totally secure. of over 800 ‘Faithwalkers.’ For two I desperately needed housing for me and my son. Somehow we are all tied together in years, Dr. McFadden served as Ex- this great system of humanity. For ecutive Pastor of the Fellowship When I talked to someone at CHD, some strange reason I can never be Bible Baptist Church in Warner what I ought to be until you are what Robins, GA. it wasn’t just filling out paperwork at a desk — you ought to be; and you can never be In 2010, Dr. McFadden began what you ought to be until I am what I serving as the 13th Senior Pastor of I was a person ought to be. This is the inter-related the historic St. John’s Congrega- structure of reality. tional Church in Springfield, MA. talking to another person. Dr. McFadden is married to the love The keynote speaker for the scholar- of his life, Jamina. Together they are ship breakfast is Dr. Calvin J. McFadden, the proud parents of Catherine and She wanted to know me; Sr., Senior Pastor of St. John’s Congrega- C. Jerome. tional Church, Spring- she was interested in me, field, MA who is a native of Tampa, so I told her my story. Florida. He accepted a call to ministry at the tender age of 15 and We got the housing we needed, pastored his first church – the St. Joseph but we also got so much more. United Methodist Church in Deland, Florida – at the age of X-BANKERS, Inc. Bridgeport, CT Locations Other CT Locations CHD.org 18 while a student at 31 Church Street, New Haven 875 East Main Street 844.CHD.HELP Bethune-Cookman 966 Main Street 60 S Main Street Waterbury College in Daytona 1245 Main Street 135 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk Beach, Florida. 1358 Boston Avenue afam point of view page twenty-four january 1, 2016 EDITORIAL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK HAPPY NEW YEAR By Frederick A. Hurst invited to submit 15 words describing tinuous flow of news to our readers the New Year without some predic- OF VIEW Frederick A. Hurst MY POINT good news in their lives and the com- but thanks to our solid base of loyal tions. munity. It is picking up speed each contributors and our dedicated staff, ● I predict that Donald Trump will ell, another year has month. And John Roberson, Vice we have not faltered in our twelve sink in the polls and Ted Cruz will passed and a New Year President of Children and Family years of existence and we don’t ex- follow in his wake and that Dr. Whas begun and Point of Services for the Center for Human pect 2016 to be any different. And al- View is still hanging around as reli- Ben Carson will not rise again. Development, has started an inform- though changing circumstances able and robust as ever. One accom- ative column on topics that relate to beyond our control have narrowed it ● I predict that Marco Rubio will plishment in the past year has been the valuable services that his organi- a bit, we continue to be supported by rise in the polls and unsuccess- the refinement of our website which zation provides to the region. And a loyal base of advertisers who be- fully challenge Hillary Clinton for now hosts a full blown digital copy of State Senator Eric Lesser is keeping lieve in our mission and who share the presidency. Point of View and people are visiting our readers up-to-date on the goings our mutual goal of keeping the com- our site in record numbers. And it has ● And I predict that Nick Cocchi on in the Massachusetts Senate while munity informed about important begun to attract advertisers. will not be our next Hampden Jay Minkarah of DevelopSpringfield matters that affect it on a daily basis. Our website attracted a record County sheriff. 107,000 hits in October which is is providing us with updates on their The year has not passed without probably attributable to the interest in development projects. Our religion controversy. Controversy is part of ● And I predict that a Puerto Rican our feature article, “Black Leader- column editor, Dr. Atu White, Pastor our business and though we don’t will begin to emerge as an early ship: Powerless by Choice.” It re- of Springfield’s Mt. Zion Baptist splurge on it, we don’t avoid it when potential challenger to the current ceived wide acclaim but it is yet to be Church, has provided our readers it is necessary. And it is almost un- mayor as will City Council Presi- seen if it influences anybody’s behav- with commentary from a variety of avoidable in an election year, espe- dent Mike Fenton. ministers and religious leaders from cially when the son of the owners, ior. ● I also predict that MGM will near and far. And David Kelley has who are also editor and publisher, is And our “likes” on Facebook move forward with its casino con- provided us with an interesting col- running for Springfield City Council. have grown exponentially! Please struction with no more than token umn on the state of youth soccer in Nevertheless, I remain mildly keep commenting and sharing!! opposition from a compliant City the area. amazed by some of the lingering vit- We picked up a few new writers Council and that its Connecticut in 2015. Stone Soul Festival founder For those who are not yet believ- riol coming from some whom one competition will not falter. Jay Griffin has started a “Good ers, Point of View is not going away. would expect better of. News” column in which the public is It has not been easy to provide a con- It would not be proper to enter continues to page 25

1.6 billion – and this nation’s 3 mil- Lindsay Graham and Marco Rubio to bits lion – Muslims if we hope to defeat point out that American troops on the AF-AM NEWS terrorists who justify their barbarism ground can quickly retake ISIS land By Frederick A. Hurst with their interpretation of Islam. and urge that as a solution to the com- continued from page 4 same article is equally as incisive. Second, our best defense against rad- plicated problems in the Middle East. icalization of Muslim-Americans is good answer. This is a new kind of She wrote, “But – this is no joke – But to do that and hold the land with- inclusiveness. By marginalizing our war requiring fresh approaches. The Trump is also the most dangerous out remaining their forever as anti- own Muslim community through old templates don’t apply because person to emerge on the American Muslim conquerors requires a much rhetoric, we vastly increase the risk they actually work against us. As political scene in decades. As presi- more complex solution that is not of radicalization and recruitment. soon as we put boots on the ground, dent, he would be the most dangerous even yet obvious to the most thought- Obama,” she wrote, “understands the Islamic State is rewarded with the man on the planet.” Noting how “ter- ful, primarily because conditions for this. He also understands that another war it wants, with the propaganda ribly familiar” Trump’s identification ground war in the Middle East risks a practical solution have not yet suf- machine it can’t otherwise replicate, of all Muslims as “the problem,” and our becoming entrenched in an end- ficiently matured. My bet is on and with the martyrdom its members how his plans to establish a Muslim less battle against an enemy that can Obama. He made some tactical errors welcome. Are Americans really ready registry and subject Muslims to a re- inspire insurgencies indefinitely.” It’s that history will record. But history to watch their military men and ligious test at our borders are to easy to huff and puff like Trump and will also record that even while sur- women beheaded and burned alive?” Hitler’s initial approach to Jews, confuse frightened people into be- rounded by loudmouth rabble (Boston Herald, December 12, 2015) Parker wrote, “Two facts to consider: lieving that the smoke that you gen- rousers, he never took his eye off of And her assessment of Trump in the First, we need the help of the world’s erate is a solution. And it’s easy for the strategic objective. ■ afam point of view page twenty-five january 1, 2016 OP-ED HAPPY NEW An open letter to the people of Massachusetts, from George Phillies, Chair, Libertarian YEAR Party of Massachusetts FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK Editor: continued from page 24 And some tongue-in-cheek predictions: ight decades ago, the Germans launched a war on Judaism. Synagogues were destroyed. Jewish ● Springfield City Councilor Bud Williams will make newspapers were silenced. Jews had special ID cards. the news and appear in many, many photographs; E ● Rick Hurst and Ray Jordan will unite and the strong Now Republican Presidential candidates want to move forward to the past. Marco Rubio would minority presence on the Springfield City Council close mosques, cafes, and internet sites. Ben Carson wants government spies in mosques, schools, will become energized as a vibrant and vocal cau- press corps, and churches. Donald Trump asks Americans to spy on their neighbors. Ted Cruz would cus. ban Moslem immigration. Trump and Carson call for torture via waterboarding. Trump, Carson, Rubio, and Cruz are four of a kind. They reject our Constitution. They campaign With all that said, it has been a very good year. against our Bill of Rights. And we at Point of View wish everyone a very Happy It is time for good Republicans to flee their party. Republicans: Your party’s Presidential candi- New Year. ■ dates are not the party of Eisenhower, Goldwater, Romney, or President Bush. You have only one pa- triotic road to take. Abandon ship! Abandon ship now! Find or form a different political party, a party true to our country’s traditions. Please consider the Libertarians. We stand for peace, freedom, pros- perity, and Massachusetts social tolerance.

George Phillies Worcester, MA Chair, Libertarian Party of Massachusetts www.facebook.com/AfAmPointofView [email protected]

LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER

would like to thank Bishop Swan for his recent article (“The Changing Face Hello Mr. Hurst, of Heroin Use,” POV, January 1, 2015). As someone who works in corrections for the last 20 years and in the field of addiction for over 25 years, I was just finished reading your article about your undelivered and grossly mistreated wonderingI when people would realize what was happening in this country with Imail. I sincerely hope you contacted the Post Office. I am sure they could identify regards to addiction and the new initiatives of helping addicts. the person who had that route on that given day. Perhaps he was a substitute? I am writing to ask the Bishop to look carefully at the wording in the new My real concern is that he could be assigned to anyone’s street and he needs to be campaign regarding eliminating the stigma. Massachusetts’ campaign is to elim- stopped. Thank you for bringing his ineptitude to the public. inate the stigma associated with opiates addiction NOT the stigma associated with I have never had trouble with my regular carrier but on occasion I have seen all addictions. So I guess it is fair to say the cocaine addicts are not included in some substitutes who seem overwhelmed and unprepared for the task (but he was this elimination process. What that means for our community is that the stigma obviously unable to perform in that role at all). and lack of empathy will continue, business as usual. Our community will benefit Teresa indirectly from the new initiatives but we must understand our communities are not the targeted consumers of the new treatment facilities and beds. The government Zaida Govan commented on a link AfAm Point of View shared.- is finally doing something that the black community has been seeking, striving (Commenting on December 1, 2015 POV article, “My White Mailman”) (12/2/15) and asking them to do for years. So for me as someone who works with addicts “And when you go to the post office you have to wait so long for service and daily, this is a great time but also a devastating time because we have lost a lot of great people of color and the government was silent. Now they are sounding the sometimes they are not so polite or even happy that you are there.” ram’s horn and calling all to battle against this disease. “A friend” commented on a link from the afampov.com website: Thank you so much for your time, (Commenting on December 1, 2015 POV article, “My White Mailman”) (12/7/15) Dana (12/22/15) Comment: Wow, man. I’m really sorry that happened to you. Being a mail car- rier myself, it is truly embarrassing every time I see stories like this and, yes, the Letters to the Publisher and other content MUST NALC will probably keep this man from losing his job. All I can ask of you at be sent electronically to: [email protected] this point is to not judge all of us based on one man’s actions because most of us (Please reference a subject matter or e-mail is automatically deleted.) truly try to do the best job we can. afam point of view page twenty-six january 1, 2016 RELIGION RELIGIOUS POINT OF VIEW RELIGIOUS DIRECTORY Dr. Atu White, Editor, Pastors, Ministers, Professors and Theologians, serves as Pastor of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, please submit your articles for this page to 368 Bay Street, Springfield, Rev. Dr. Atu White at: [email protected] MA and as Second Vice President of the United Baptist Convention of Massachusetts, Rhode Discovering the Fruit Island, and New Hampshire. [email protected] By Rev. Dr. Atu White ● God’s Love is Pure and Undefiled. ● Patience is allowing the Holy Galatians 5:22-23 NLT God’s love is radical in that He Spirit to control our Temper, Tem- [22] But the Holy Spirit produces this perament, and Temperature. Pa- kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, loves the core of who we are be- patience, kindness, goodness, faithful- yond the layers of who we have tience means to be long-tempered. ness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. become. He requires us to Live in This year, refuse to allow people There is no law against these things! Love, which is to live in the full or situations to pull you out of expression of Jesus Christ. character, but stay focused on the e squander so much of life path. living on top of the layers. ● Joy is the Unconquerable Glad- WThe layers we have built ness that Circumstances Cannot ● Kindness is Doing Good with Our responding to people and environ- Confine. Joy shields us from un- Resources. All of us currently have something to give. If you ments have drastically diminished the bridled despair. When we want to means to get ahead. God grants have ten (10) cans of food, give quality of our lives. Consequently, we linger in the lowest moments of His sons and daughters opportuni- one (1) away. become drained and malnourished. life, we are to reflect on the Joy of ties so that His nature can infiltrate Therefore, we approach God to re- our salvation. ● Goodness is the Righteousness of specific places. plenish, restore, and redeem our lives. ● Peace is knowing God is Walking God at Work Within Us. God’s de- ● Self-control Governs our Actions. Out of the abundance of God’s gen- Us Through Life. The image of sire is for us not just to be Good, When growing in Self-Control, erosity, He mandates us to live not in but to be Good for Something. Peace is God going before us pause to consider three questions: condemnation but in the freedom of clearing the path of all debris and ● Faithfulness is having Faith in 1) Are my actions helpful? 2) Are His Spirit. It is His Spirit at work obstacles that will hinder or re- God’s Faithfulness. God gives us my actions constructive? 3) Are within us that makes us better people. strict our progress. He then returns opportunity because He wants to my actions to the Glory of God? Next level growth is growing in the and leads us down the same path. infiltrate every sphere of life. very nature of God’s character. Discovering the Fruit of the Whatever we face, we have Peace Spirit empowers us to remove the lay- Apostle Paul lists nine attrib- in knowing we can handle it. ● Meekness is Exercising God’s utes–the Fruit of the Spirit–which de- Strength Under His Control. We ers of life and stay true to the path velops our redeemed spirit: do not have to use unscrupulous God prospers on our behalf. ■ THE PASSING OF WALTER LEE BROWN, SR. A TRUE FIGHTER & JONATHAN S. “FLIP” BASS By Marjorie J. Hurst was saddened to learn of By Frederick A. Hurst Ithe sudden passing of for- e lost two good men whose pass- mer Springfield School Wings’ were celebrated on the Committee member An- same day. One, Walter Lee Brown, Sr., tonette Pepe. Although our died in the twilight of his life at age 84 relationship on the school and the other, Jonathan S. “Flip” Bass, committee was often tumul- died in the prime of his life at age of 41. tuous with the two of us ag- Both will be equally missed. And while gressively staking out one can’t help but feel the irony in the positions on opposite sides fact that the older Walter Brown lived of many issues, there was never any question in my long enough to fulfill his promise in life Antonette “Mama” Pepe while the younger Jonathan Bass left mind about Antonette’s ded- April 13, 1941 - Walter Lee Brown, Sr. life with his promising legacy unful- Jonathan S. “Flip” Bass ication to what she believed filled, both families can be proud that in and commitment to the December 7, 2015 January 18, 1931 - January 19, 1974 - both lived the life they were given to children of the school system. She was a fierce fighter December 10, 2015 the fullest. December 2015 and earned the respect of many. She will be missed. afam point of view page twenty-seven january 1, 2016 RELIGIOUS DIRECTORY PROGRESSIVE Shiloh Seventh-Day COMMUNITY BAPTIST Adventist Church CHURCH 797 State St., Springfield, MA 599 State Street 413-734-0103 Springfield, Massachusetts [email protected] (413) 736-8844 Sabbath School 9:00a.m. Sabbath Services: “A Church Determined To Follow Christ” (Saturdays) Divine Worship 11:00a.m. Adventist Youth Services Rev. Joe C. — 6:00pm Long Jr., Adventist Pastor Community Service Dr. Walton H. Mondays & Tuesdays Rose, Pastor 10:00a.m. — 1:00p.m. Prayer Meeting Sunday Worship - 10:00 a.m. The Church Wednesdays Sunday Bible School - 9:00 a.m. In The Heart 7:00p.m. of The City Church School (SSAJA) Bible Study - Wednesday - 6:30 p.m. Monday — Friday

ÂT W|äxÜáx cxÉÑÄx ã{É tÜx New Life Calvary Alden Baptist Church BETHEL AFRICAN bÇx ÉÇ fÉÄÉÅÉÇËá cÉÜà|vÉÊ 649 State Street METHODIST EPISCOPAL Baptist Church Springfield, MA 01109 CHURCH 413-788-9910 27 Pendleton Avenue A NEW “We believe God has called us to be a vital sign of faith Springfield, MA 01109 at work in the community. This vision is actualized (413) 734-7611 BEGINNING through our Ministries.” Rev. Angelo S. Dawson, Sunday School Pastor Acts 5:12b 9:00 AM Rev. Donald A. Thomas, Sunday Worship— 10:45 AM Associate Minister Sunday School— 9:00 AM Morning Worship Tuesday— Book Club — 7:00PM Service Rev. Amelia Eddy, Associate Minister Wednesday—“Noonday Hour of Power” 10:00 AM Rev. Jesse E. With Lunch Prayer/Bible Study Sunday School Wednesdays James D. Bullock, Williams Sr., Thursday— Live Bible Study — 7:00PM Wednesday 9:00 a.m. Noon & 6:00 p.m. Minister of Music Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper Pastor/Teacher Bible Study 6:00 & 7:00 PM Sunday Morning Pastor’s Bible Study Sunday Morning First Sunday— 4:00PM Mondays & Worship Service Sunday Divine Worship Wednesdays 17 John Street, Springfield, MA 01104 981 Wilbraham Road Spring- 10:00 a.m. 9:00am to 9:50am 10:00am (413) 737-9583 field, MA 01109 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service Youth Ministry Church School Bible Study/Prayer Dr. Mark E. Flowers, Senior Pastor (413) 796-1600 Mondays Fridays Saturday & Class Meeting Mountcalvarybaptistchurchspringfield.org 6:00 p.m. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 11:00am Wednesday – 6:00pm Overflowing Love Church of the Living God g{|Üw UtÑà|áà V{âÜv{ 22 King Street, Springfield, MA 149 Walnut Street (413) 739-0164 P.O. Box 91166 [email protected] Springfield, MA 01139 Weekly Service Schedule 413-734-4143 Sunday School 10:00 am Join us for our Worship Services Sunday Morning Worship 11:30 am Sunday School Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Morning Bible Study Reverend Nathaniel Smith, Sr., Pastor Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday Morning 10:00 am Thursday 6:00 p.m. Adult & Youth Bible Study Âg{x YÜ|xÇwÄç V{âÜv{Ê f|Çvx DKIL Wednesday Evening 7:30 pm Bishop Naomi Barber Where all who enter may be blessed

Canaan Baptist Wesley United Methodist Church Solid Rock Community Baptist Church Church of Christ “Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors.” 821 Liberty Street, Springfield, MA 01104 1430 Carew Street 741 State Street Telephone (413) 734-5441 Springfield, MA 01104 Springfield, MA 01109 Fax (413) 734-5438 413-734-3233 413-739-5053 Office & Fax Transportation (413) 575-4035 : WesleyUMCSpringfield Rev. Dr. W. C. Sundays Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am Sunday School (all ages) ------9:15a.m. Email: [email protected] Watson, Jr., Pastor Weekly Bible Study/Prayer Service Tuesday 7:00 pm Morning Worship Service ----10:45a.m. Sundays Church Life Wednesdays Bishop Curtis L. Shaird, Pastor Worship, Prayer, Mid-day Prayer & Praise--12:00-1:00p.m. Rev. Catharine A. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30 a.m. Cummings, Pastor Reverend Harold P. Dixson, Assistant Pastor Praise & Study Bible Study ------7:00 p.m. Morning Worship Service 11:00 a.m. afam point of view page twenty-eight april 1, 2015 LIVING FOOD FOR THOUGHT LIFE’S CHALLENGES Be Intentional! The Power of Appreciation By Zaida Govan By Sweets H. Wilson, PhD something. We sit back and wait for and honestly showing our delight so Dr. Sweets S. Wilson is a Zaida Govan is a native others feel special. Appreciation also of Springfield via Puerto the next great leader to move “our Christian life purpose Rico with a passion for people” forward. What if you are the coach, motivational helps us realize what we have, and to improving the community speaker and CEO of be grateful for the relationships, op- next great leader that makes the move she serves. She can be Inspire ME, LLC. portunities, and blessings He gives. reached at 413.301.2533 for social justice change? What if it is wilson.sweets@ Appreciation helps us accept the dif- or up to you to make sure you and gmail.com or [email protected] 860-869-8067 ficulties and trials of life as part of everyone you know votes to ensure God’s loving provision and care that anuary 2016: It seems that time the person God wants in charge is in FROM HARTFORD, leads to our learning and growth for went by too quickly. So many charge? God has a permissive will CONNECTICUT a greater good and maturity (James Jthings happened this year and so ppreciation is having admira- 1:2-8). We need to know what suc- meaning that He allows things to hap- much has stayed the same. As I write tion for others and communi- cess really is, and that it is not deter- pen; we have free will meaning that this, I reflect on what we can do this Acating your approval to them. mined by what we do or what we New Year that will cause an impact we have a choice. Too many of us It is taking the time to make people have. Instead, it is determined by how on the social justice movement. choose not to vote because―I don’t feel welcome and special by using the we follow God’s precepts and interact As a Christian, I ask other Chris- know why―but we say, “Oh, if it’s gifts of God’s work in you to encour- with others using them. tians what we are supposed to be God’s will then it will be;” that is BS. age and uplift others. It is a form of People love to be appreciated. doing to make the changes that are Even those who don’t thrive on praise God’s will is for there to be justice in valuing others; this takes the focus off needed. Most of them say “pray” and, still need the affirmation of their the land, for peace, for joy and hap- you and places it on God’s purpose of course, I do, but what else? I think and direction. It is fueled from our value through appreciation. Like piness. How can we sit back and say about “WWJD?” and I think he heartfelt thanks to God for what we God, people are attracted and moti- would be out on the front lines de- that it is God’s will for so many peo- have, for what He has done, and is a vated in some degree by praise. Let manding change like He did in the ple to die untimely deaths? I digress. lifestyle of worship and adoration. us face it, everyone loves to be cele- temple when He turned the tables As we enter a new year I would This allows us to give to, and value brated. Appreciation satisfies one of over. He saw poor people out there in like to see us plan to be proactive. others with respect and honor (1 Tim. our basic needs, and that is belonging. We all want to be a part of something. the streets and these people were in- Justice or else was about using our 5:17; 6:1). side just playing. When He came God created us that way. Apprecia- money power to impact the social jus- One of the quickest ways to across injustice He didn’t just go to bring anything into your life is tion is a way that we know we be- tice movement. I know it is too late the mountain and pray, he addressed through the power of appreciation. long. So today, stop and take time to it; He told them, “he that is without for 2015 but in 2016 let’s make it a Appreciation is a form of Praise that appreciate the things in your life you sin, cast the first stone.” reality. Start buying Christmas pres- attracts the presence of God. God might be taking for granted. Examine I am by no means a bible ents now so that you won’t go in debt loves praise and when His children their value and importance. Whether scholar, but I do know the bible. It in November and December and be show appreciation for the things that it be a relationship, a church, a job or says we are the body of Christ and He has already done, it positions more intentional about where you a hobby, think of the emptiness you our hands should be working to make them to receive more from Him. Sim- spend your money. Research who in would have without it. Now go to change. We know He is coming back ilarly, appreciation attracts people and your neighborhood lives there and work showing appreciation for it. If it but in the meantime and in between things to us. As long as we continue does not increase on the outside of time, we need to be DOING! It is our has a business there and do business to show appreciation for them, then you, it will definitely increase on the responsibility to help those in need, with them instead of the big box the things we attract not only stay in inside. ■ to ensure that justice is for ALL. The stores. Business owners need to be re- our lives, but they also increase. I last great leader in the social justice sponsible too; too often I hear “that’s have found that just about every con- movement was a preacher, and they why I don’t buy from them” because sonant we have in our lives is a result killed him. Martin Luther King, Jr. they aren’t fair and their customer of appreciation. Our relationships, ve- was doing what Christ would have hicles, wealth, and homes all remain service sucks. But so it is at the big done; he was organizing people, em- with us and functional because of ap- powering people, making them aware box stores. preciation. of their rights. He told them that they How can we be appreciative might die in the struggle and he did. Happy New Year! people? We can do so by voicing sin- www.twitter.com/ Now it seems that we as a peo- cere compliments, taking the time to ple are too lazy or too scared to do Be intentional! write a note, celebrating victories, AfAmPointofView afam point of view page twenty-nine january 1, 2016 THE ARTS ENTERTAINMENT REVIEW The “Incomparable” Howard Hewett By Moyah Smith

That would include Jody Watley, Jeffery Daniel you feel like you are in your liv- Moyah Smith and the incomparable Howard Hewett. After sev- ing room having drinks while eral years of success, the group disbanded and watching a friend perform. As he made his way Howard Hewett went on to a very successful solo through the crowd, standing on tables, getting up career. close and personal, he had the audience captivated. It was a pure delight to see Howard perform. It was easy to see he is still gifted with that velvety, There is no mystery as to how he has maintained a sultry voice that makes women melt and swoon. flourishing career for over three decades! Howard’s It was a pleasure to see that even when the style of singing is inclusive of many attributes. show was over and the stage lights went out, he re- Within his performance he showed his sexy bal- mained just as personal and showed a great deal of ladeer and a crooner side with songs like, “This Is humility while meeting with concert-goers after the For the Lover In You” and “Can you Feel Me.” At show. Howard Hewett is the real deal….on and off the next moment, he was hitting you in your soul stage. with a full-bodied, spiritual journey through songs You can catch Howard on an online Podcast such as “Amen.” And before you realized it, you every Wednesday, 10 – 11pm EST at Humormill- were out of your seat and dancing to songs like, mag.com. The show is called Musical Bootcamp “Second Time Around.” hosted by Hewett, Steve Russell (from the 90s Howard’s presence on stage was very intimate R&B group Troop) and Tangerine Thomas. It is a and inclusive of the audience. There is nothing like fun show as the trio uses this platform to critique seeing a performer of this magnitude, who makes independent music. ■ Mr. Howard Hewett he show was promoted as “The Urban Gator Jazz League of Springfield presents The Camp TAtwater Salute…An Amazing Night of El- evation, Excitement & Entertainment.” Well, I concur. That is exactly what it was this past Hal- loween night at the Hu Ke Lau in Chicopee. We were elevated as we witnessed pioneers of the Hair Industry in Springfield receive recognition for years of dedication to their field. The recognized included Lucille Kennedy, Essie Ware, Vanessa Hall, Janet Disco, Gary Corbett and Mary Tillery. We were entertained by Springfield’s own “Voice,” Mr. Leon Spradley, and the infectious comedy of Nikki Carr. Of course the highlight of the night provided us with elevation, excitement AND en- tertainment ….. Mr. Howard Hewett. I remember going to see the group Shalamar back in the early 80s at the Springfield Civic Cen- ter. They had been around since the mid 70s. After several member changes, including at least two dif- ferent lead singers, Howard Hewett was added as the group’s front man. Although there were quite a POV columnist Walter Woodgett introduces jazz legend Jonathan Butler few different members over the group’s existence, the biggest of Shalamar’s fans would very likely during the recent “Gator Jazz” concert at the Hu Ke Lau in Chicopee. only be able to name the “classic” member line-up. His next concert will feature Will Downing on Saturday, May 14, 2016. afam point of view page thirty january 1, 2016 THE ARTS CHILDREN’S BOOK CORNER

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has “My First Book of Football” been reading since she was 3 years old and she By Beth Bugler and Mark Bechtel, Illustrated by Bill Hinds never goes anywhere with- c.2015, Sports Illustrated Kids $11.95 / $12.95 Canada 48 pages out a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two pass the ball over your child might hear during the dogs and 11,000 books. everybody’s head. game, explanations that are very kid- There might be a friendly. The illustrations by Bill our dad says his team is fumble, a flag, or a doing well this year. Mom’s Hinds are undeniably funny. The penalty, if you’re happy, too. problem, therefore, isn’t within the Y unlucky. You might As long as they don’t fumble, as book itself, but in its correlation (or see a few intercep- long as they avoid being tackled, they not) to a complicated, fast-moving tions. And at the might go to the playoffs, Dad says. game. Yes, this book will give your end of the game, it But what does that mean? Is that in youngster a better understanding of could be time to English? Read “My First Book of terms, but it’s going to lead to even celebrate. “Game Football” by Beth Bugler and over!” more questions, I think. A mere read- Mark Bechtel, illustrated by Bill So your child through or two just won’t be enough. Hinds, and you’ll catch on. is eager to cheer on Kids ages 5 to 10 may like this Every Sunday – and a few the family’s fa- book very much, but parents might evenings of the week – for four or vorite team. You’re find it lacking. Still, it’s a good intro- five months, your family is glued to eager to teach her duction to the game and if that’s all the TV. It’s football season: time to (or him!) how the game works. But To the good, authors Beth Bu- you need, then having “My First wear your team gear and get ready to “My First Book of Football” may not gler and Mark Bechtel include basic Book of Football” may be a good cheer because “football is an action- be the easiest way to do it. explanations to just about everything goal. ■ packed game…” To begin, the game is played on ARTIST IN RESIDENCE a field which is as long as eight school buses lined up in a row. Renée Flowers is Point of View’s Artist in Residence. You can contact her directly at Every month Though football teams have many different paintings members, only eleven players from (413) 209-9882 to arrange a private view- created by each team are allowed to play at any ing of her work. (See May 1, 2014 POV Renée Flowers one time and each team member has Community Focus article on Renée by are displayed at a special job to do during the game. Emurriel Holloway for more information on Point of View There’s a coin toss to see who gets the artist @ www.afampointofview.com.) the ball first for kickoff. The kicker kicks the ball. Some- one from the other team catches it and RUNS! That guy, the one with the ball, is on the offensive team. The other team, the one that’s trying to stop the runner, is the defense. Part of the point of the game is to run to the end of the field, to the end zone belonging to your team, with the ball in your hands. The coach might have something to say about how it’s done; he’s the guy who tells the players how to play the game. The Quarterback, who is “the big cheese, the main man,” might also have some ideas. As the game progresses, your team will have a “down” or two (or four!). The Quarterback will try to afam point of view page thirty-one january 1, 2016 THE ARTS PEN & INK JUANITA TORRENCE-THOMPSON: Pushcart nominee. Playwrite. Published fiction, children’s stories, feature articles, hundreds of her award-winning poems BRENDA’S CHILD has made it her life’s mission to inspire people in dozens of U.S. and international journals, 12 anthologies, 7 books including her through poetry and stories and through leading by example with Talking With Stanley Kunitz (2012). Writes print & online newspaper poetry courage, confidence, and integrity. In April 2007, she self-published columns; produces poetry salons and reads internationally. Former Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of award winning Mobius, The Poetry Magazine. Her poetry is trans- her first book of poetry, “A Piece of My Mind...Poetic Confessions of lated into 15 foreign languages. Talking With Stanley Kunitz and New York and a Self-Proclaimed Diva.” Since then she has published four more ti- African Tapestries were best pick by Small Press Review. Mobius, The Poetry Mag- tles. For more information, email: [email protected] azine, best pick 2007 thru 2012 www.poetrytown.com Vignettes Of Life Greater Than By Juanita Torrence-Thompson By Brenda’s Child

As the spidery man and woman in formal attire alight from the cab I am more than mammary glands and ovaries, At the Metropolitan Opera House, across town a homeless man more than lace front wigs and sew in weaves. Begs for a dollar for coffee. Scores snuffed out in Paris . . . My layers are deeper than the melanin in my skin. There is more to me than the roundness of my hips, In Alaska, polar bears tread water in search the thickness of my bottom lip. Of an iceberg, while a mother in Detroit I am not a statistic, Tops tomato sandwiches, with iceberg lettuce, stale bread. just because of where I live, or the things I did. I am not just my skills, talents, In Boston, the Red Sox baseball team scores to win the pennant, Interests or occupation. While jails are crammed with prisoners paying penance And camels pace Sahara Desert’s ancient dunes. My description is not limited just because you are, so please don’t use derogatory slurs, At 2 a.m. rain falls relentlessly on tin roofs of Soweto, S Africa, or think you can define me by just one word. While thousands of miles away cows graze in New Hampshire, So I will not answer to words that are meant to demean, As a marching band plays in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade it doesn’t matter from whose lips they drip. And the man and woman leave the opera house to ride a hansom cab Through Central Park now pregnant with a circus of colors I am more than that. Mixing with crimson flowing on Parisienne streets. More than thick, voluptuous, plus size or fat, because those words are not substantial enough Copyright 9/30/2008, Revised 11-14-2015 to categorize my greatness. My definition cannot be condensed to fit a stereotype or an expectation, I am more than just my gender, my genetics and ethnicity I said if before, I am wonderfully imperfect and full of complexity. LAUGH OUT LOUD!!! (LOL) every day and when Dad got home from work, we sat down together at the dining room table. And if I didn’t Growing Old like what she put on my plate, I was allowed to sit there By Mary Shurn until I did like it.” omeone asked the other day, “What was your favorite S‘fast food’ when you were growing up?” By this time, the lad was laughing so hard I was afraid he was going to suffer serious internal damage, so I didn’t “We didn’t have fast food when I was growing up,” I in- tell him the part about how I had to have permission to formed him. “All the food was slow.” leave the table.

“C’mon, seriously... Where did you eat?” But here are some other things I would have told him about my childhood if I’d figured his system could have “It was a place called ‘home,’’’ I explained! “Mum cooked handled it: continues to page 32 afam point of view page thirty-two january 1, 2016 LAUGH OUT LOUD!!! (LOL) Growing Old continued from page 31 ● How many do you remember? ● Some parents NEVER owned their own house, wore ● Headlight dim-switches on the floor of the car. jeans, set foot on a golf course, travelled out of the ● Ignition switches on the dashboard. country or had a credit card. ● Trouser leg clips for bicycles without chain guards. ● My parents never drove me to school... I had a bicycle ● Soldering irons you heated on a gas burner. that weighed probably 50 pounds, and only had one ● Using hand signals for cars without turn indicators. speed (slow). Older Than Dirt Quiz: ● We didn’t have a television in our house until I was 10. Count all the ones that you remember, not the ones It was, of course, black and white, and the station went you were told about. Ratings at the bottom. off the air at 10pm, after playing the national anthem and epilogue; it came back on the air at about 6am. And 1. Sweet cigarettes there was usually a locally produced news and farm 2. Coffee shops with juke boxes show on, featuring local people... 3. Home milk delivery in glass bottles 4. Party lines on the telephone ● Pizzas were not delivered to our home... But milk was. 5. Newsreels before the movie ● All newspapers were delivered by boys and all boys de- 6. TV test patterns that came on at night after livered newspapers — My brother delivered a newspa- the last show and were there until TV shows per, seven days a week. He had to get up at 6 every started again in the morning. (There were only 2 morning. channels [if you were fortunate]) 7. Peashooters ● Film stars kissed with their mouths shut. At least, they 8. 33 rpm records did in the films. There were no movie ratings because 9. 45 RPM records all movies were responsibly produced for everyone to 10. Hi-fi’s enjoy viewing, without profanity or violence or almost anything offensive. 11. Metal ice trays with levers 12. Blue flashbulb If you grew up in a generation before there was fast food, 13. Cork popguns you may want to share some of these memories with your 14. Wash tub wringers children or grandchildren. Just don’t blame me if they bust a gut laughing. If you remembered 0-3 = You’re still young If you remembered 3-6 = You are getting older Growing up isn’t what it used to be, is it? If you remembered 7-10 = Don’t tell your age If you remembered 11-14 = You’re positively ancient! MEMORIES from a friend: My dad is cleaning out my grandmother’s house (she died I must be ‘positively ancient’ but those memories recently) and he brought me an old lemonade bottle. In are some of the best parts of my life. the bottle top was a stopper with a bunch of holes in it. I knew immediately what it was, but my daughter had no Don’t forget to pass this along! Especially to all idea. She thought they had tried to make it a salt shaker your really OLD friends....I just did! or something. I knew it as the bottle that sat on the end of the ironing board to ‘sprinkle’ clothes with because we (P.S. I used a large type face so you could read it didn’t have steam irons. Man, I am old. easily) afam point of view page thirty-three january 1, 2016

Jay Griffin, Stone Soul Festival GOOD NEWS Program Chairman [email protected] Tel: 413-636-3881 LET’S LOOK FORWARD TO THE NEW YEAR! or FYI 413-739-2947 F Hamilton Wray is back from California—from visiting with his daugh- Stone Soul Kitchen ter. The Stone Soul Kitchen is about to open up. The community breakfast F Cabaret – karaoke featuring Dave Montgomery, Ron Brace, Ham Wray, (FREE) will begin January 14th at 10 a.m. We offer free breakfast twice a Henry Payne, every other Thursday. month; this is part of our cultural makeup. We break bread and discuss im- portant topics including health, substance abuse, current events and planning F Rubin Harris is home for the holidays, then back to Savannah, Georgia. for community activities. We want each breakfast to serve as “food for thought.” F Great memorial service for Ron Tucker, Esquire held by family and friends. Stone Soul Cultural Center Our community has enough “critics,” it’s time we organize our resources to F Richard & Ethel Griffin safely returned from trip in the Caribbean Is- make contributions to and for each member of the community. The Stone lands. Soul Cultural Center has become a “safe place” for individuals seeking “shel- F ter from the storms of life.” We share food, information, fellowship and sup- Neel thanks 35 Village Keepers who sponsored more than 800 M-E-G port. bookmarks given to youth. Submitted by Neel Abdul-Hameed Resources Available We have a talented group of men/women willing to work on jobs listed below: F Women in Recovery is officially incorporated. Now we are Women in Snow removal, paint/wallpaper, rubbish/cellar clean up, food-service Recovery Project, Inc. We welcome all women to our empowerment cooking (Safe Serve Certified), flyer distribution, general clean-up, group (WIRP, Inc.). We meet on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month – small jobs, finish carpentry, art work, etc. If you have need for any of 5pm to 6:30pm at Wesley United Church. Please contact Wilhamenia at these services, please call us at (413) 737-1485. (413) 563-3590 for additional information.

end us your good news (birthdays, births, weddings, anniversaries, etc.) by January 15th for the February 1st 2016 edition of the Point of View. We will Sacknowledge the Good News each month. The maximum submission is 15 words. There is a $5.00 cost that must accompany your Good News information. Send to: Stone Soul, Inc., P. O. Box 90031, Springfield, MA 01109 ─ Let’s get the Good News rolling! CONGRATULATIONS CORNER

ongratulations to Jacob Oliveira, a member of the Ludlow School Committee, who was Celected as president of the Massachusetts Asso- ciation of School Committees for 2016 at the organiza- tion’s November meeting. Jake is extremely active in education issues locally, state-wide and nationally. He was elected to the National Schools Boards Association’s (NSBA) Board of Directors in 2014. At 29, he is the youngest member of NSBA Board of Directors by over a decade. He is only the 7th member, and the first in nearly 20 years, to be elected from Massa- chusetts. Currently serving his seventh year as a school committee member on the Ludlow School Committee, Jake has emerged as a young progressive leader of vision and energy who is committed to advocating for students and their families, educators and local school committee members.

ongratulations to Baystate Laurean Anderson poses with her grandchildren at her recent Noble Hospital who was re- 80th surprise birthday party held at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee. Ccently awarded a $1.2 million From L to R: Keyara Narcisse, Rahim Chase, LaTrisha Anderson, CHART (Community Hospital Acceleration Revitalization and Transforma- tion) Grant from the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission to improve Eric Chase Jr., Laurean Anderson, Serenity Anderson, patient care in Greater Westfield. The hospital is one of 30 community hos- and in the front is her great-grandchild Jordan Chase. pitals in Massachusetts sharing the $60 million in chart grant awards. afam point of view page thirty-four january 1, 2016 BAYSTATE HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC. The New Kid in Town continued from page 22 former governor discovered a state insurers to pay a lot more for the same cessors, Mark Tolosky and Mike Medical Center (Baystate Medical). It budget hole of $329 million and made quality of care that Baystate Health of- Daley. He has built out the remainder is a distinction that is important espe- an executive decision to cut $34 mil- fers for much less. And the Boston of the incredible “Hospital of the Fu- cially when one hears that Baystate lion dollars from the special Medicaid hospitals get the same percentage from ture,” presided over the acquisition of Medical made a $96 million net profit payments to “disproportionate share Medicare and Medicaid as hospitals in Noble Hospital and the build-out of its last year and makes the mis- new surgical center while es- take of concluding that tablishing a close relationship Baystate Health made the with UMass Medical Center profit. Baystate Health has to which will benefit the hospital spread any profit over its entire as well as local talent and much operation and in this last year more, all while upping Baystate actually made no profit be- Health’s political presence. cause it plowed the money And, while maintaining back into its multiple opera- Baystate Health’s commitment tions and it is also struggling to to excellence, he has also con- absorb state Medicaid and tinued its commitment to diver- Medicare payment cuts. sity. Baystate Health is the The only concern I have is nonprofit parent that includes that he won’t be playing much Baystate Medical, Baystate golf at Veterans Golf Course Franklin Medical Center, which he frequented as a mem- Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, ber of the Duggan Jr. High golf Baystate Wing Hospital and, team. And he gave up the piano most recently, Baystate Noble which his musician grand- Baystate Medical Center – Hospital of the Future Hospital. The combined sys- mother taught him to play. And tem has over 80 medical prac- he used to sing but gave that up, tices, 25 reference laboratories and hospitals,” which meant that in the the western part of the state which too. I know he’s busier than most. But 12,000 employees including 1600 middle of its budget year, Baystate means their actual Medicaid/Medicare there is no better place to cajole politi- physicians. It is also the parent com- Health was instantly out $5 million dollar amounts from government pay- cians than on the golf course, espe- th pany of Health New England and that had already been budgeted and ments are much higher, which is an- cially at the 19 hole, or at the local Baystate Visiting Nurses Association substantially spent. In other words, other reason why Dr. Keroack has bar over a drink and a song especially and Hospice. It is a highly regarded Baystate was one among the medical stepped up his political presence to if he’s playing the piano as the politi- hospital that has been nationally rec- facilities that catered to the poorest convince the legislature and the gov- cians crowd around him and croon ognized repeatedly as one of the top among us and was forced to fill a state ernor to rework the formula. with delight as he interjects tales of medical systems in the country. budget gap that was not of their mak- And Baystate Health is almost ar- his childhood adventures in Spring- But what Dr. Keroack has learned ing. The $5 million was inserted into bitrarily excluded from some funds it field. during his short time at the helm is that the current Senate budget but was ex- should get (i.e. from the Delivery Sys- But Dr. Keroack is a very, very it is not only a complex system, the cluded from the final budget. The leg- tem Transformation Initiatives Trust busy man. And I’m sure he has to complexity is complicated by the fact islature will be revisiting the matter in Fund) partly because folks in govern- carefully choose how he allocates his that 68% of Baystate Health’s hospi- January and all who have benefited ment don’t fully grasp the distinction time, which is why I was so pleased tals’ patient care is financed through from the largesse of Baystate Health – between Baystate Medical and that he took some of that time to visit Medicaid or Medicare payments from and there are many – should contact Baystate Health, which is why I under- my office where we had a good old the state, which normally would have their legislators because if the funds stand why Dr. Keroack was at the fashioned discussion that led us back covered only 78% of the cost per pa- are not forthcoming, major cutbacks Sheriff’s picnic last year where it is in time to some common points in our tient. That 78% included a premium will result and we will all be feeling common to see top politicians but rare pasts in Springfield, Boston and that the state allocates to providers like the pain. to see top businessmen. As the new kid Chicago. Baystate who are called “dispropor- This situation has brought out the on the block, he is determined to make As we interacted, I was re- tionate share hospitals” because they latent political side in Dr. Keroack, some noise to bring attention to a con- minded that there is nothing that re- are losing more money by absorbing who is now also questioning the whole fused funds allocation system that is veals the character of a man and the the difference between what Medicaid formula for allocating Medicaid and imbalanced in favor of larger hospitals scope of his power more than his hu- pays and the full cost of the services Medicare funds across the state. in the East. mility, something that will appeal to they provide. Larger hospitals in the Boston area It’s good to have Dr. Keroack his staff, the community and even to And, to complicate matters, half have a combined negotiating power back in town. He has continued the in- politicians who are conditioned to re- way through the past budget year, our that they leverage to get commercial credible progress started by his prede- spond to the “squeaky wheel.” ■ afam point of view page thirty-five january 1, 2016 SPRINGFIELD SPORTS YOUTH PREMIER SOCCER David Kelley is the co-founder and Vice President of SFC. Winter Soccer School is Back He serves as current Head By David Kelley Coach of BU15 Premier team and BU14 District Select Team. portunity to our youth players. He can be contacted at: You can learn more about [email protected] Springfield Football Club by visiting his is New England. Unless their website at SpringfieldFC.net. you are into skiing and snow- “Springfield Football Club (SFC) is boarding, winter is the start of T the premier youth soccer club of the cabin fever syndrome. Children are Greater Springfield, Massachusetts stuck in the house either playing area. Our focus is individual and video games or just watching televi- team development of the tactical and sion. technical aspects of the game. SFC Springfield FC is again offering provides a quality environment that its Winter Soccer School to those will enable the most committed play- who love the sport and want to con- habits are also a part of soccer school. is to prepare our players for advanced ers to develop their soccer skills to tinue their training or just want to Keeping our children active and en- play and knowledge for the develop- the highest level. We believe that the skills learned on the field can be keep active throughout the winter. gaged in regular exercise is a great ment of their personal soccer career. transferred to professional skills off life tool that they will carry with them Soccer school is where the theory of The club’s vision is to locate, de- the field. It is our purpose to promote soccer is taught, such as understand- throughout their life. velop, and produce talent here, in our community, academics, and profes- ing the various formations along with Soccer models are always home town, surrounding communi- sionalism by developing players ca- learning tactics and proper technique. changing. SFC coaches stay on top of ties and to promote the awareness of pable of obtaining college Soccer school is for ages 5-18. This the most modern philosophies and soccer. Sports can be a great avenue scholarships through the game of is where the love of the game is pro- adaptation of the United States Soc- for continued education through col- soccer. Our members not only chant moted and confidence instilled for the cer Federation. It is the model of lege scholarships. SFC is offering the “Passion and Pride,” they live it.” upcoming spring season. Healthy Springfield FC to keep current. This type of training that will give that op- CLASSIFIEDS BUY NEW ENGLAND CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK ROMOTE YOUR PRODUCT, SERVICE OR BUSINESS TO 1.8 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND. REACH 4 MILLION PO- Harlem Globetrotter’s Sweet J visits PTENTIAL READERS QUICKLY AND INEXPENSIVELY WITH GREAT RE- the Harlem Globetrotters exhibit SULTS. USE THE BUY NEW ENGLAND CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK BY CALLING 413-796-1500. DO THEY WORK? YOU ARE READING ONE OF OUR ADS at the Naismith Memorial Basketball NOW!! VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE WHERE YOUR ADS RUN FREE COMMU- Hall of Fame during her short NITY PAPERS OF NEW ENGLAND WWW.FCPNE.COM visit to Springfield, MA on MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE MISCELLANEOUS Monday, December 14th. KILL BED BUGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killers/KIT Complete Treatment Sys- The Harlem Globetrotters arrived in tem. Available: Hardware Stores, The Springfield for two shows at the Home Depot, homedepot.com MassMutual Center on Tuesday, December 29th. HEALTH & FITNESS VIAGRA!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00. Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Photo Credit: MassMutual Center Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1-877-560-0675.

FOR RENT Warm Weather Is Year Round In Aruba. The water is safe, and the dining is fan- tastic. Walk out to the beach. 3-Bedroom weeks available. Sleeps 8. $3500. Email: [email protected] for more information. afam point of view page thirty-six january 1, 2016

C Diversity Council STC pre sen ts DavisD mpson Leeader Dr.D SamSampsonaattional L Davis PhysicianPhhyysiciansic & InspiraInspirationalt elling Leader Author imes Bestsellingestselling AuthorA ndaattion NNewew YYoYorkork TTimes cttors Foun The Three Doc ounder of FounderF of The Three Doctors FoundationWednesday Feb 3 22016016 tyy CCoollege 111:00am1:00am Coomommunit caal C a m dTTechnic ymnasium gfifield Gy SSppringpr belli Hall/ G Springfield Technical S cibCommunity College

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(SPVQ afam point of view page thirty-seven january 1, 2016 JANUARY 2016 EVENTS For more events, go to: www.afampov.com THRU JANUARY 3 Forest Park C3 Meeting Bright Nights at Forest Park: When: Thursdays 10―11am Closed November 30 & December 1 Where: 37 Alderman St., Springfield, MA When: Sun.-Thurs.: 5―9pm; Fri., Sat., North End C3 Meeting Holidays: 5―11pm When: Thursdays 11am―12noon Where: Forest Park, 300 Sumner Ave., Where: 101 Lowell St., Springfield, MA [email protected] THURSDAY―21 Springfield, MA Harriet Beecher Stowe Center presents (Just off I-91 on Rte. 83) TUESDAY―5 SATURDAY―16 State of the Political Union with MSNBC Info: $18/car Mon.―Thurs.; Baystate Academy Charter Public School 34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Political Analyst Steve Kornacki $21/car Fri.―Sun. & Holidays; accepting applications for 6th―10th Memorial Scholarship Breakfast When: 7pm brightnights.org; 413.733.3800 graders (current 5th―9th graders) for the When: 9―11am Where: Congregation Beth Israel, Where: Sheraton Springfield Monarch YWCA YouthBuild Springfield HiSET (GED) 2016-2017 school year. 701 Farmington Ave., Place Hotel, 1 Monarch Pl., Preparation & Job Skills Training Program When: 5pm West Hartford, CT Springfield, MA for Young Adults ages 17 to 24. Accepting Where: 2001 Roosevelt Ave., Info: $20 general admission; Info: $35; $40 at door; 17 years and applications for February 2016. Walk-ins Springfield, MA (access the $15 students and members; school through Industry Ave.) under $25; 413.732.0097; HarrietBeecherStowe.org; welcome 413.782.3779; When: Monday - Friday 9am―5pm Info: Application Deadline: 860.522.9258 x317 January 15th at 4pm; See Ad on page 33 Where: YMCA, 1 Clough St., SATURDAY―23 Springfield, MA www.bacps.net; 413.366.5100 The Brianna Fund for Children with Phys- Sumner Chapter No. 5, Order of the East- Info: 413.755.3137; ical Disabilities 18th Annual Dr. Martin SATURDAY―9 ern Star hosts Annual Worthy Matron and [email protected] Luther King, Jr. Benefit Gospel Concert Worthy Patron Inaugural Ball Baystate Academy Charter Public School When: 5:45pm (Doors open at 5pm) When: 6pm SATURDAYS―JANUARY 9 accepting applications for 6th―10th Where: Evangelical Covenant Church, Where: Sheraton Hotel, THROUGH FEBRUARY 27 graders (current 5th―9th graders) for the 915 Plumtree Rd., One Monarch Place, Springfield Parks Department “Learn to 2016-2017 school year. Springfield, MA Springfield, MA Swim” Program When: 5pm Info: FREE and Open to the Public; Info: $60 per person; 413.244.4787; Where: Kiley Middle School, Where: 2001 Roosevelt Ave., Free Will Love Offering 413.539.4339 180 Cooley St., Springfield, MA Springfield, MA (access the Requested; 413.204.0145; school through Industry Ave.) Info: $65 city residents; See Ad on page 2 WEDNESDAY―27 $75 non-city residents; Info: Application Deadline: January 15th at 4pm; MONDAY―18 Springfield Food Policy Council Meeting Pre-registration required at When: 2:30―4pm www.bacps.net; 413.366.5100 Free Tours at the Harriet Beecher Stowe 413.787.6298; 3 years of age Where: Springfield Central Library, Center in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. and older and register 220 State St., Springfield, MA TUESDAY―12 Day Info: FREE and Open to the Public; Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Baystate Academy Charter Public School When: 9:30am―5pm 413.263.6500 x6539; Public School Accepting Applications accepting applications for 6th―10th Where: 77 Forest St., Hartford, CT www.springfieldpartnersinc.com through January 29, 2016 graders (current 5th―9th graders) for the Info: FREE & Open to the Public; Springfield Parks Department “Learn to 2016-2017 school year. 860.522.9258 x317; Swim” Program When: 5pm www.HarrietBeecherStowe.org Happy Where: PVPA, 15 Mulligan Dr., Where: 2001 Roosevelt Ave., South Hadley, MA Springfield, MA (access the Annual Dr. King Day Celebration Info: www.pvpa.org; 413.552.1580; school through Industry Ave.) When: 11am―1pm New See Ad on page 18 Info: Application Deadline: Where: MassMutual Center, January 15th at 4pm; 1277 Main St., Springfield, MA C3 POLICING WEEKLY www.bacps.net; 413.366.5100 Info: FREE & Open to the Public; 2016 COMMUNITY MEETINGS 413.732.8428; Mason Square C3 Meeting WEDNESDAY―13 See Ad on page 14 Springfield Partners for Community Ac- The staff of POV thank When: Tuesdays 11am―12noon WEDNESDAY―20 Where: Mason Square Library, tion Multicultural Alzheimer’s Program all of our advertisers, Xcel, Inc. Open House 756 State St., Springfield, MA Hosts Free Informational Session writers and readers for When: 6―8pm When: 2―3pm a successful 2015 and South End C3 Meeting Where: Independence House, Where: Hartford Public Library, When: Wednesdays 11am―12noon 1475 Roosevelt Ave., 500 Main St., Hartford, CT wish all of you and your Where: Former Store 24, Springfield, MA Info: FREE and Open to the Public; families a healthy and 806 Main St., Springfield, MA Info: FREE and Open to the Public; www.xcelinc.org; 860.335.9177 prosperous new year. (next to Honey Land Farms) 413.263.6500 x6539; Please visit, follow, subscribe, comment, like, tweet, read or explore on our website at: www.afampointofview.com or www.afampov.com www.facebook.com/AfAmPointofView https://plus.google.com/+PointofViewSpringfield www.twitter.com/AfAmPointofView afam point of view page thirty-eight january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS The Squires Celebrate Their 75th Anniversary Squires and their wives from L to R: Buford Holloway, Emurriel; Tyrone Sullivan, Carol; John Johnson, Lauren; Bruce Cutting, Carol; Earl Hodge, Valeria; Robert Ralls, Sharon; Marcus Austin, Michelle; Al Whitmore, Lu; Joe Hendrix, Toni (not in photo).

Guests joining Buford and Emurriel Holloway from L to R: Frederick and Marjorie Hurst; Dwight Bachman and Willette Johnson; Willie and Pat Spradley; Buford and Emurriel; Barry Campbell and Dorothy Evans; and Thomas Blair and Bobbie Hollins.

It’s a family affair! Emurriel and Buford (center) are joined by Robert and Vivian MacAlpine and Rosalie and Eddie Corbin Emurriel’s siblings Thomas Blair and Dorothy Evans and their escorts were also among the guests. Bobbie Hollins (far left) and Barry Campbell (far right). afam point of view page thirty-nine january 1, 2016 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY FOCUS Antonio's Catering's 13th annual Christmas Party

Celebrating the Holidays at the Colony Club

Ron and Virginia Masnicki The Hurst Family afam point of view page forty january 1, 2016

Need health insurance? I’ll help you sign up!

It’s Open Enrollment time at the Massachusetts Health Connector, where you can find high-quality health and dental plans from leading insurers. Most people who sign up qualify for help paying for their insurance each month. Sign up for a plan online at MAhealthconnector.org. Or get free in-person assistance signing up from one of our experts.

To find help in your neighborhood, go to MAhealthconnector.org and click on “Help Center” at the top of the homepage.

Where to Get Help:

Caring Health Center Mercy Medical Center 1049 Main Street 271 Carew Street 413-739-1100 413-748-9357

Tapestry Health - Springfield MassHealth 1985 Main Street Enrollment Center 413-733-6639 333 Bridge Street 413-785-4100 Baystate Health 759 Chestnut Street 413-794-0000

Lydia Sanchez Enrollment Expert Caring Health Center