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NAMD Volume 11 Issue 2 www.namdphiladelphia.com February 2011 Black History Is American History The Black Professionals News

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Page 1: Black Professionals News

NAMDVolume 11 Issue 2 www.namdphiladelphia.com February 2011

Black History Is American History

The Black Professionals News

Page 2: Black Professionals News

Jamar Nicholas, the illustrator of Geoffrey Canada’s book Fist, Stick, Knife,

Gun will be the guest speaker at Fair Hill’s annual black history essay contest on

February 19, 2011.

Philadelphia public school students from the Potter Thomas School, Fair Hill

Elementary, Clymer and KIPP Charter grades 3-8 will be participating. The

winners will read their essays “What can kids and schools do about violence in

our neighborhoods?”. A copy of Canada’s book and cash prizes will be award to

1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners from each of the grades at the ceremony to be

held at the old Quaker burial ground.

Located in the poorest zip code in the city and one formally known as the

Badlands, Fair Hill today continues the tradition of social activism for which it

is known historically. Many of the leaders of 19th century abolitionist and

women’s rights movements such as Robert Purvis and his friend Lucretia Mott

are buried there. Today members of its board work with neighbors, schools,

police and local community groups to effect change in this fragile neighborhood

that has seen its share of violence and related social problems.

In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be at Evelyn Sanders

Community Room, across from the burial ground on Indiana Street.

Tour President’s House Exhibit DuringBlack History Month

Philadelphia is known for its rich African-American history, but the city

shines a special spotlight on history, tradition and culture during Black History

Month.The newest addition to Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, The

President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation shows

off structural fragments of the home where Presidents Washington and Adams

lived during their terms and where nine enslaved people served the first

president as he led the country in pursuit of freedom and equality. On February

19th, the National Park Service, Independence Visitor Center and philly360.com

team up to present a program led by historian Joe Becton. The day starts with a

video and performance at the Independence Visitor Center and then moves to the

open-air President’s House, located just steps from the Liberty Bell Center, for a

National Park Service Ranger-led tour. 6th & Market Streets, (215) 597-0060,

phila.gov/presidentshouse

With so many authentic experiences awaiting multi-generational visitors all

month folks will want to make it a night or two. One popular deal is the

two-night Philly Overnight® Hotel Package, complete with free hotel parking

and available at more than 30 hotels throughout the region. Throughout the

month of February, package buyers receive even more added-value goodies: two

admissions to the Blue Cross RiverRink, the Betsy Ross House and Liberty 360

3-D show. The package can be booked online at visitphilly.com or by calling the

hotel directly.

2 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

Advertise In

The Black Professionals News

Call 267 - 244 - 3860

email: [email protected]

The Marian Anderson Scholar/Artists will perform classical and spiritualselections from Marian Anderson’s repertoire in honor of her 114thBirthday.

Sunday, February 27, 2011 @ 6:00pm -10:00pmTHE FRANKLIN20th Street & Benjamin Franklin ParkwayPhiladelphia, PA

The Marian Anderson Scholar/Artists Concert, Dinner and Celebrity Ball

will be celebrated in Memory of the late Philadelphia native Contralto, Marian

Anderson. Hosted by the Marian Anderson Historical Society, the event will help

raise financial resources to advance aspiring young opera and classical vocal

artists of great promise. Mervon Mehta will return to Philadelphia from the

Royal Conservatory of Toronto to MC the concert.

Following the concert under the stars in the planetarium, guests will be

escorted to the Franklin Room for dinner and ball featuring celebrities (TBA)

and for your dancing and listening pleasure, the Marian Anderson Historical

Society Tribute Orchestra.

HONORARY GALA CO-CHAIRS:

Dr. Lorraine Brown, Dr. Constance Clayton, Earl Harvey, Audrey Johnson-

Thornton, Barbara Johnson, Shonda Johnson, The Honorable Kenyatta Johnson,

Dr. Patrick and Evelyn Sample-Oates, Naomi Strange, The Honorable Anna C.

Verna, Dr. Victoria Yancey.

For information www.mariananderson.org or RSVP:

Blanche Burton Lyles, 215.732.9505 or [email protected]

The Marian Anderson Historical Society Hosts The Marian Anderson ScholarsCompetition Concert, Dinner and Celebrity Ball

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Annual Robert Purvis Black History Essay Contest for Philadelphia public schools

Page 4: Black Professionals News

MAKING SURE OUR CHILDRENKNOW THEIR HISTORYChild Watch® Column, by Marian Wright Edelman

"Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished losethe inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history." So saidDr. Carter G. Woodson, the scholar and historian who is called "The Father ofBlack History," and who founded Negro History Week in 1926 to help give thisrecord and inspiration to other Black Americans. At the time Dr. Woodson wasalarmed because so few people, White or Black, knew anything at all aboutBlack history and Black people’s achievements. He would even meetother Black college history professors who had no idea Blacks had made any sig-nificant contributions to national or world history. Dr. Woodson understood justhow critical it was to claim our rightful place in the history books, and so thenational celebration of Black history was born.

Negro History Week was originally celebrated during the second week ofFebruary to coincide with Frederick Douglass's and Abraham Lincoln's birth-days. As times changed, Negro History Week became Black History Week, andeventually the single week grew into Black History Month. But throughout theyears the celebration's symbolism and importance has always remained thesame. This February, Americans of all colors are watching with excitement asSenator Barack Obama makes contemporary Black history before our eyes justas Senator Hillary Clinton is making women's history. Many children are nowtaught in school about some of the lions of Black history, like Dr. Martin LutherKing, Jr., and Rosa Parks. Who else should we be sure to teach our children

about to inspire them today?They should know about our earliest heroes like 18th century poet Phillis

Wheatley and scientist Benjamin Banneker, as well as freedom fighters likeFrederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and so many others whowere born in slavery but never gave up in their passion to be free. They shouldknow about the following generation of brilliant Black leaders and thinkers likeW.E.B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington, and Ida B. Wells-Barnett and aboutpioneering inventors and educators like George Washington Carver and CarterWoodson himself. They should study the Harlem Renaissance and the writers,musicians and artists who bloomed there and changed American culture forever.

Our youth should bask in the light of pioneers who broke racial barriersthroughout the 20th century including Marian Anderson, the Tuskegee Airmen,Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall, Shirley Chisholm and Mae Jemison. Ofcourse they should applaud our elders and honor them for their lifetimes ofachievement: civil and human rights leaders like Myrlie Evers and Dr. DorothyHeight, scholars like Dr. John Hope Franklin, and cultural leaders like HarryBelafonte, Ruby Dee (who at age 83 is nominated for an Oscar at this month'sAcademy Award® ceremony for Best Supporting Actress) and Dr. MayaAngelou. The list of great Black Americans goes on and on, and our childrenshould know their stories and be given the tools and motivation to emulate them.

Finally, we should teach our children as much as we can about the heroes intheir own families and try to be the people we want our children to become: thegrandparents and great-grandparents who came before them and paved theirway. Why is this so important? Family stories are often the most memorableinspiration of all. They bring history alive and reinforce the idea that anyone andeveryone can use their lives to make a difference. This is a key lesson not justfor Black History Month but every day. Every time we look back at our historyto celebrate, we must remind ourselves and our children of just how muchunfinished business we must attend to and be inspired by our history to write thenext chapter.

Celebrities, top chefs coming tothe Red BallRed Cross annual gala will feature Vin Diesel and over 40 restaurants

The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Chapter willhost the 11th Annual Red Ball on Saturday, March 5, 2011 from 8 p.m. to 12midnight at the Please Touch Museum at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park.

Guests at this red-tie event will sample culinary delights prepared byPhiladelphia’s hottest chefs, dance the night away with entertainment providedby CTO World Entertainment Productions, enjoy access to the museum’sexhibits, mingle with Philadelphia’s social and business leaders, test their luck inthe raffle and learn more about the mission of the Red Cross and the everydaywork of its volunteers.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy an all-access evening, beginning at 8 p.m. inthe exclusive VIP Lounge, featuring Max & Me Catering. Other amenitiesinclude VIP express entry, private top-shelf open bar, cigar bar, separate coatcheck and a special VIP gift.

All proceeds from The Red Ball benefit the Red Cross House, a one-of-a-kind short-term housing facility in West Philadelphia where hundreds of localfamilies every year begin their recovery from fires, floods, and other disasters.

The Red Ball is one of Philadelphia’s hottest events and sells out every year.The Red Ball tickets are on sale now. Main even tickets are $185 and VIPtickets are $285. For more information about The Red Ball or to purchase

tickets, visit www.theredball.org or call 215-299-5491. Sponsorships,restaurants and auction items are also still being accepted. If interested, pleaseemail [email protected]

4 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

Photo by, Sarah Wimberley

Page 5: Black Professionals News

The Black Professionals News • February 2011 5

Philadelphia’s inspirational staton announcesStar-Studded Inspiration and Music Conference

PRAISE 103.9, “PHILADELPHIA’S INSPIRATION STATION,” is bringing

the first and biggest Inspiration Conference in the country to Philadelphia with

blockbuster names such as Yolanda Adams, Mathew Knowles, Donald

Lawrence, James Fortune, Vickie Winans, Tye Tribbett and others March 27th at

the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This conference will not only be designed

for the city of Philadelphia, but for the entire country. We are planning to

provide six workshops designed to help people see their dreams become a reality.

WORKSHOP 1: A Talent Search for the “Best Inspirational Singer

in America” hosted by Coco Brother! This workshop will give aspiring

inspirational singers from across the country the opportunity to win the following:

An all-expense paid (air/hotel/ground) three-city tour with gospel great James

Fortune & FIYA courtesy of Black Smoke Music World Wide. In addition,

James Fortune will write and produce a single for the winner, and Troy

Sneed/Emtro Records will award the winner $1,000! The single will be featured

on the nationally distributed compilation Kerry Douglas Presents Gospel Mix

Vol. V scheduled to be released on July 26, 2011.

WORKSHOP 2: For ministers of music and choirs, world-renowned gospel

artists Donald Lawrence and Lonnie Hunter will teach specific singing

techniques that will enable church choirs to better harmonize and create a better

sound for their choir or praise team.

WORKSHOP 3: “Beyond The Music” with Yolanda Adams, Mathew

Knowles, Vickie Winans, Tye Tribbett, and Kerry Douglass will educate atten-

dees on how to build and grow their own brands; whether it’s book publishing,

music, managing their own business, or just building their own self-worth.

WORKSHOP 4 “Marriage Beyond The Vows”; vows are easy to say, but

marriage is the real test. This workshop with marriage guru Marcos Mercardo is

designed to enrich marriages – with effective communication, compromise,

and intimacy.

WORKSHOP 5: “Single and Saved For Singles” hosted by AV from the

Yolanda Adams Morning Show and nationally known comedian John Gray, and

author and singles’ coach Dr. Laverne Adams, will touch on dating like-minded

people, self-esteem building, and loving yourself.

WORKSHOP 6: “Faith and Finances.” You’ll learn how to get out of debt,

how to spend wisely and how to save in this down economy with financial

expert Georgette Miller.

The event culminates with the nationally syndicated Yolanda Adams

Morning Show, Monday, March 28, and will feature live performances and a

free breakfast at Yesha Fellowship Hall, 2308 Synder Ave from 6am– 10 a.m.

See VaShawn Mitchell, James Fortune, Wess Morgan and others!

The activities will begin at 2 p.m. at The Pennsylvania Convention Center

on Sunday, March 27. If you would like registration information for the

Inspiration and Music Conference go to comcasttix.com. For full details on the

conference visit praisephilly.com or call 610-276-1033.

Advertise In The Black Professionals News

Call 267 - 244 - 3860 • email: [email protected]

Page 6: Black Professionals News

6 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

The Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware Minority Supplier DevelopmentCouncil (PA-NJ-DE MSDC) named corporations and suppliers of the year atthe MSDC Choice Awards held recently at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. Thecelebration brought together 400+ guests, including Fortune 500 companyexecutives, minority business owners, public and private sector leaders, and gov-ernment officials. Philadelphia’s Mayor, the Honorable Michael Nutter andAlfonzo Jackson, district officer for U. S. Department of Commerce, MinorityBusiness Development Agency, were among the distinguished guests. MoniqueBraxton, NBC 10 News reporter, served as mistress of ceremonies.

“It was a great night to celebrate our corporate members’ success inproviding contract opportunities to our certified-MBEs,” said Wade Colclough,president and CEO of the PA-NJ-DE MSDC. “It was equally gratifyingto recognize our MBEs who consistently provide stellar service tocorporate America.”

Exelon Corporation (Chicago, IL), which includes local companies PECOand Exelon Generation, was named National Corporation of the Year andHighmark. Inc., based in Pittsburgh, PA, was selected as the RegionalCorporation of the Year. In the four classes of Supplier of the Year, based oncriteria including sales revenue, high quality products and services, andcontributions to the growth and development of society and their communities,the winners were: Class I -- Set the Mood, LLC; Class II – Lansdale Ice; ClassIII – SDM & Associates; and Class IV – SHI Corporation.

In addition, PEPCO Holdings, Inc. received the President’s Award inrecognition of their support above and beyond corporate membershipwhich included consistent employee engagement, Board representation, andin-kind contributions.

This award-winning night of business acknowledgement and explorationwas capped off by a performance by 12-time Grammy-nominated, 2-time Stellarwinner, smooth jazz artist, Kirk Whalum and his band comprised of GeraldVeasley, Monnette Sudler, James Rouse, and John Stoddart. Also, Philly’s ownlocal jazz band, Zoe, performed.

Event Gold Sponsors were Highmark, Inc. and Pfizer. Other sponsorsincluded: Giant Foods, DuPont, Exelon Corporation, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson& Johnson, Merck, Novo Nordisk, PEPCO Holdings, Inc., AlliedBartonSecurity Services, Deluxe Delivery Systems, Communications Test Design, Inc.East Hill Video, Tonbo Visual Promotions, Clear Channel, Rumba, WDAS-FM,WUSL-FM Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Daily News, and Philly.com

About PA-NJ-DE Minority Supplier Development CouncilOur mission is to certify, develop, and connect. The PA-NJ-DE Minority

Supplier Development Council (MSDC), an affiliate of the National MinoritySupplier Development Council, one of the country’s leading business

membership organizations, was chartered to provide increased procurement andbusiness opportunities for minority businesses of all sizes. The primaryobjective is to provide a connection between corporate America, governmententities, and minority-owned businesses. The PA-NJ-DE MSDC’s corporateheadquarters are based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, serving MBE andcorporate members throughout Eastern and Central Pennsylvania, South Jersey,and Delaware. We represent over 125 corporate members and 350 MBEs withmore than 35,000 employees and $14 billion in total revenue, contributing to thegrowth and sustainability of our regional economy. For more information, visitwww.msdc-panjde.org. Location: 42 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware Minority Supplier DevelopmentCouncil Announces Corporations and Suppliers of the Year

Highmark, Inc. (Camp Hill and Pittsburgh, PA) representatives, Yvette Porter and

Michael Romano, senior VP, procurement and administrative services, accept the

Regional Corporation of the Year Award at the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware

Minority Supplier Development Council Choice’s Awards held recently at the Loews

Philadelphia Hotel. Also pictured (from left) are: Ron Tutungi, DuPont;

Wade Colclough, president and CEO of the PA- NJ DE MSDC; and Dave O’Brien,

Exelon Corporation

Page 7: Black Professionals News

Pennsylvania-New Jersey-DelawareMinority Supplier Development CouncilElects Executive Committee Members

The Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware Minority Supplier DevelopmentCouncil (PA-NJ-DE MSDC) today announced the Board of Directors haselected Maurice Williams, supplier diversity regional manager for PEPCOHoldings, Inc. as Chairman of the Board and George Council, vice president ofStrategic Sourcing and Acquisition Integration for AlliedBarton SecurityServices as Vice-Chairman, effective January 7, 2011.

“The PA-NJ-DE MSDC’s Board of Directors and I have great confidencein both Maurice and George to lead this council to new heights,” saidDavid M. O’Brien, the Council’s out-going chairman and vice president ofSupply Chain Management for Exelon Generation. “Maurice has made exten-sive contributions both professionally, on behalf of PEPCO Holdings, andpersonally. George brings a track record as a strategic and tactical leader who isalso an exceptional visionary. ” Both Williams and Council served as membersof the Board.

“For our Council to remain successful, we must hold steadfast to our visionand focus on our mission – to certify, develop, and connect our corporatemembers to viable, certified-MBEs. With the elevation of my two colleagues andthe dedication of our Board of Directors, I am confident we will provide anincreased return-on-investment for our stakeholders. I’m excited to work moreclosely with both Maurice and George in such key roles,” said Wade Colclough,president and CEO.

About Maurice G. WilliamsMaurice G. Williams has over forty years

experience in the utility industry. Prior to joiningPHI he served the Kansas City Power & Lightcompany in numerous capacities, includingsupplier diversity and operations management. Heis presently a Supplier Diversity Regional Managerfor PHI providing coverage for internal and exter-nal needs in the Atlantic City Electric andDelmarva Power regions. In his capacity assupplier rep for PHI, he serves on numerous boardand committees primarily in the states of Delaware,New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Maurice, a lifelongresident of Kansas City, Missouri until moving toDE in 2006, has a bachelor’s degree from Friends

University of Central Kansas.Pepco Holdings, Inc. is one of the largest energy delivery companies in the

Mid-Atlantic region, serving about 1.9 million customers in Delaware, theDistrict of Columbia, Maryland and New Jersey. PHI subsidiaries Pepco,Delmarva Power and Atlantic City Electric provide regulated electricity service;Delmarva Power also provides natural gas service. PHI also provides retailenergy savings and renewable services through Pepco Energy Services.

About George H. CouncilGeorge H. Council is the Vice President of

Strategic Sourcing and Acquisition Integration forAlliedBarton Security Services. Prior to joiningAlliedBarton, Mr. Council held senior positionswith Banister International, Cigna Corporation, andLaSalle Partners (now Jones Lang LaSalle).He also served as a Captain in the United StatesMarine Corps as a Financial Management Officer.Mr. Council earned his bachelor’s degreein Economics from The United StatesNaval Academy.

AlliedBarton Security Services is the largestAmerican-owned security officer servicescompany. Established in 1957, AlliedBarton is atrusted leader with proven expertise in a number ofmarkets, including:

• Chemical & Petrochemical • Colleges & Universities • Commercial Real Estate • Government Services • Higher Education • Healthcare • Residential Communities • Manufacturing and Industrial • Financial Institutions • Shopping Centers and other Retail Facilities

AlliedBarton has over 50,000 employees and 100 offices located across theUnited States from which we help protect our more than 3,300 customers.About PA-NJ-DE Minority Supplier Development Council

Our mission is to certify, develop, and connect. The PA-NJ-DE MinoritySupplier Development Council (MSDC), an affiliate of the National MinoritySupplier Development Council, one of the country’s leading business member-ship organizations, was chartered to provide increased procurement and businessopportunities for minority businesses of all sizes. The primary objective is toprovide a connection between corporate America, government entities, andminority-owned businesses. The PA-NJ-DE MSDC’s corporate headquarters arebased in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, serving MBE and corporate membersthroughout Eastern and Central Pennsylvania, South Jersey, and Delaware. Werepresent over 125 corporate members and 350 MBEs with more than 35,000employees and $14 billion in total revenue, contributing to the growth andsustainability of our regional economy. For more information, visitwww.msdc-panjde.org.

The Black Professionals News • February 2011 7

Exelon Corporation CaptionCorporation of the Year Award at theMSDC Choice Awards held recently at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel.

Winning the award attests to Exelon's commitment to diversity and inclusionas a core value. Achieving supplier diversity is a critical component of Exelon'ssupply chain strategy. As the corporation grows and succeeds, Exelon sharesthose successes by supporting diverse suppliers who reflect the communitiesit serves. Since 2005, Exelon and its subsidiaries have facilitated close to ahalf-billion dollars in corporate spending from certified diverse suppliers onan annual basis. Exelon's dedication to supplier diversity reaches across alloperating companies and business units. To achieve its vision to be the best inutility-class, Exelon treats diversity and inclusion as both a business imperativeand a core value.

The PA-NJ-DE Minority Supplier Development Coucil honored ExelonCorporation with the prestigious

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8 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

Page 10: Black Professionals News

African AmericanChamber launches minoritybusiness site

Advocates say they hear plenty of excuses whenit comes to not supporting black-owned businesses,from not being able to find one to having had a badexperience in the past.

The African American Chamber of Commercehopes to put an end to the excuses with the unveiling ofReverse 90.com. The site showcases places to eat, shopand secure a range of other services from black-ownedfirms in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

The Chamber’s Reverse 90 campaign, launchedover the summer, is aimed at turning around thedismal support for black businesses. The effort getsits name from research showing that 10 percent ofmoney spent by blacks support black-ownedbusinesses. For more information www.reverse90.com

Boscov's Berks Jazz Festnominated for OasisContemporary Jazz Awards

The Boscov's Berks Jazz Fest has been nominatedin the Best Jazz Festival category of the 2011 OasisContemporary Jazz Awards, being held March 12 atthe Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego, Calif.

Fellow nominees in the Best Jazz Festivalcategory include Capital Jazz Fest, Maryland-D.C.area; Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival, Calif.;Montreal International Jazz Festival; and SeabreezeJazz Festival, Panama City, Fla.

Many of the artists performing at the 21stannual Boscov's Berks Jazz Fest, March 25-April 3,are nominated for Oasis awards, including BrianCulbertson, with seven nominations, Richard Elliot,Gerald Albright, Euge Groove, Marc Antoine, BrianSimpson, Rick Braun, Stanley Clarke, NormanBrown, Peter White, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber,Harvey Mason, Nathan East, The Rippingtons, Tizer,and Will Downing.

"The nomination is a tribute to everyone whohas helped make the Boscov's Berks Jazz Fest agreat community event," said John Ernesto, BerksJazz Fest general manager. "To be recognized andnominated alongside those other festivals is areal honor."

Previously known as the Oasis Smooth JazzAwards, the Oasis Contemporary Jazz Awards honorthe biggest names in contemporary jazz, fusion andmore each year. Jeff Lorber will serve as musicaldirector, and many of the industry's biggest artistswill be performing during the event, which includesfour days of concerts and activities.

Past Oasis award winners include: Boney James,Rick Braun, Russ Freeman, Peter White, HerbAlpert, Dave Koz, Grover Washington, Jr., SteveCole, Fourplay, Keiko Matsui, David Benoit, HarveyMason, The Rippingtons, Nathan East, Al Jarreau,Joe Sample, David Sanborn, Sade, Brian Culbertson,Wayman Tisdale, Chris Botti, and Diana Krall.

Award winners are determined by industry andpublic voting.

For information on the awards and a chance tovote, visit http://www.oasisjazzawards.com/.

The 21st annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest,presented by the Berks Arts Council, runs March 25-April 3, and features some of the hottest names incontemporary and traditional jazz, blues, R&B, fusionand more. More than 130 events are hosted at largevenues, clubs and restaurants throughout BerksCounty, making for a truly unique festival experience.

A complete schedule of concerts, artist bios,hotel information and more is available atwww.berksjazzfest.com.

Tim Greene Kicks off “Take Back OurCommunities One Neighborhood At A Time”

Filmmaker/Radio Personality Tim Greene (lower right of photo) recently met with over 60 com-

munity leaders during his nationwide tour and concluded that everyone wanted safer communities and

that radio could play a large part in fulfilling that need. So to kick off black history month and to go on

throughout the year, Tim will broadcast his radio show live in local communities nationwide and show-

case kids who want to do better, stay in school and give back to their communities. The show has a

large on-line audience so Tim plans to take the initiative to other cities as well with dates already

booked for Philly, Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta and Detroit. For more information on Tim Greene's

"Tack Back Our Communities Tour" go to: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/TIMGREENEFILMS or call:

(213) 399-0600.

10 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

PHILADELPHIA THEATRE COMPANYDAVID MAMET’S RACE EXTENDEDONE WEEK THROUGH FEBRUARY 20

Philadelphia Theatre Company announces a ONE-WEEK-ONLY extensionof David Mamet’s provocative play Race, now running through February 20 atthe Suzanne Roberts Theatre (Broad and Lombard Streets). Directed bylong-time Mamet collaborator, Scott Zigler, the production features the ensemblecast of Jordan Lage, Nicole Lewis, John Preston, and Ray Anthony Thomas.

Performances for the extension week include a show on Tuesday at 6:30,Wednesday at 1:00 and 7:00, Thursday and Friday at 8:00, Saturday at 2:00 and8:00, and Sunday at 3:00. Tickets are $25 -$59, with discounts for students,seniors and groups. Tickets are available by calling the PTC Box Office at215-985-0420 or visiting PhiladelphiaTheatreCompany.org.

Pulitzer Prize Award-winning playwright and Tony nominee David Mamettackles the biggest four-letter word of all… race! Two lawyers, one black onewhite, are offered the chance to defend a wealthy executive charged with ashocking crime against a young black woman. When a new legal assistant getsinvolved, emotions bubbling just beneath the surface explode!

CBS3 is the season media sponsor for Philadelphia Theatre Company; U.S.Airways is the Official Airline and PNC Arts Alive is the 35th Anniversary TicketSponsor. PECO is the Production Sponsor and Blank Rome LLP is the OutreachSponsor for Race.

Founded in 1974, Philadelphia Theatre Company is a leading regional theatercompany whose mission is to produce, develop and present entertaining andimaginative contemporary theater focused on the American experience that bothignites the intellect and touches the soul. By developing new work throughcommissions, readings and workshops PTC generates projects that have anational impact and reach broad regional audiences. Under the leadership ofSara Garonzik as PTC’s Producing Artistic Director since 1982, PTC supportsthe work of a growing body of diverse dramatists and takes pride in being a hometo scores of nationally recognized artists who have participated in more than 130world and Philadelphia premieres. PTC has received 45 Barrymore Awards and147 nominations. In October 2007, PTC moved into a home of its own, theSuzanne Roberts Theatre on Center City Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts,solidifying the Company’s status as a major player on the American theaterscene. In October 2010, Kathleen Nolan joined PTC as its InterimManaging Director.

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The Black Professionals News • February 2011 11

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ROMANTIC OFFERINGS ABOUNDTHIS VALENTINE’S DAY IN THE CITYTHAT’S “ALWAYS TURNED ON”Select events and dining specials to commemorate thisspecial occasion include:

Valentine’s Day Group Wedding CeremonyCouples looking to tie the knot on this iconic day can take part in a free

Valentine’s Day group wedding, civil union and vow renewal ceremonypresented by the Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority. This ceremonywill take place in the Ballroom at Boardwalk Hall on Monday, February 14 at 2p.m. and will include a champagne toast, wedding cake and photo opportunities.For more information or to pre-register for the event, visitwww.atlanticcitynj.com. Absecon Lighthouse

“An Evening of Romance” will take place at Absecon Lighthouse, the tallestlighthouse in New Jersey and the third tallest lighthouse in the U.S. This eventwill run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday, February 14 and include cateredappetizers with chocolate covered strawberries, as well as champagne and softspirits. Additionally, guests can enjoy music provided compliments of a DJ,flowers for women and keepsake photos taken by a professional photographer.A wedding vow renewal ceremony will take place for married couples duringthe evening’s festivities as well. Tickets are $125 per couple. For moreinformation, visit www.abseconlighthouse.org.Cuba Libre

Cuba Libre at The Quarter at Tropicana will offer a special “A Taste ofRomance” prix-fixe Valentine's Dinner Menu for $39 from Saturday, February12 to Monday, February 14. The menu offers classic and innovative dishesfeaturing aphrodisiac ingredients, with select items including MariquitasCubanas, Maduros and Camarones con Caña. For more information, call609-348-6700 or visit www.tropicana.net. Select hotel getaway packages include:Bailamos with Your Valentine at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Be a “Hero” this Valentine’s Day by treating a special loved one to a suite,spa treatment and performance by Enrique Iglesias at Borgata Hotel Casino &Spa. Starting from $1,149, guests will receive two tickets to Enrique Iglesias’“Euphoria World” tour concert at Borgata’s Event Center, Saturday, February 12and overnight accommodations in a Borgata Fiore Suite. Additionally, guestswill receive a couples in-suite massage, champagne with chocolate strawberries,a $50 credit for breakfast in-bed and a $50 coupon to Just Cavalli/Hugo Boss(after $100 is spent in either store). For more information or to makereservations, call 609-317-7555 or visit www.theborgata.com. AC Valentine’s Day Offerings/2“I Do” Proposal Package at Resorts Atlantic City

Guests can roll out the red carpet for an ultimate proposal with this package,which is available for $10,000, and includes an engagement ring valued at$7,500* and overnight suite accommodations featuring champagne, strawberriesand rose petals in-room. Guests will also receive a custom-designed specialtycake, front row tickets for the Bay Atlantic Symphony concert and a romanticdinner at Capriccio. The royal treatment continues with a day at the spa

providing guests with a couples massage, a salon and spa credit; breakfast in bedand transportation in a 1920’s style limo. A special message will playthroughout the hotel announcing the engagement and the happy couple canenjoy a celebratory song and toast in 25 Hours with Blanche, the singing bar-tender. Package is available from Friday, February 11 through Sunday, 13 andis based on availability. *No substitutions on ring available. For moreinformation, visit www.resortsac.com/valentines2011. Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Package from Atlantic City Hilton

Available Monday, February 14 through Tuesday, February 15, the“Valentine’s Day Sweetheart” package includes overnight accommodations in aGrand Suite, a $150 dining credit and spa access for two. Additionally, guestswill receive special Valentine’s chocolates, continental breakfast for two and 2p.m. late check-out. Package is available for $225 plus tax, based on doubleoccupancy; select restrictions apply. For more information or to makereservations, call 888-224-4586 or visit www.hiltonac.com. Marc Antonelli Valentine Show Package from Tropicana

Guests can enjoy a soulful escape at Tropicana this holiday weekend with aValentine Show package that includes overnight accommodations and twotickets to see the talented tenor Marc Antonelli perform live in concert.Additionally, guests will receive breakfast from Starbucks, two complimentarydrinks and enjoy a 2 p.m. late check-out. Package is available Sunday, February13 through Monday February 14 for $99, based on double occupancy. For moreinformation, call 800-345-8767 or visit www.tropicana.net.

For more information on a romantic escape to Atlantic City, visitwww.atlanticcitynj.com

12 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

New Jersey News

Aseemblyman Vince Poilistina, Atlantic City Mayor Lorenzo Langford,

Resorts CEO Dennis Gomes and President of Atlantic Cape Community College

Dr. Peter Mora

MBCA Winter New Year's Kick-off Lunch on Jan 13th at Resorts. The event

featured the Mayors "unofficial" State of the City Address to Business Community:

SPRING Scholarhip Luncheon May 5th Trump Plaza Noon-RSVP: 609-348-1903

or wwww.acmetbiz.com for Scholarship and Membership information

Page 13: Black Professionals News

The Black Professionals News • February 2011 13

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, SCHOOL DISTRICT OFPHILADELPHIA AND UNIVERSAL COMPANIES

ANNOUNCE PROMISE NEIGHBORHOODS INITIATIVE

In the Photograph Standing: Rahim Islam, President/CEO of Universal

Companies, Jim Helman, Representative of Grays Ferry Partnership & Mayor

Nutter, Seated: Mr. Kenny Gamble, Founder of Universal Companies, Dr. Arlene

Ackerman, Superintendent School District of Philadelphia, Dr. Walter Lomax;

owner of WURD Radio Station and Claudia Sherrod, Point Breeze Community

Development Corporation.

Photo Credit: Martin Regusters

Philadelphia Bishops, Reverends and Pastorscame together at Sharon Baptist Church for re-election of

Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell .

Pictured here are Bishop Keith W. Reed, Sr. Senior Pastor/Teacher, Sharon BC,

Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and Bishop Audrey F. Bronson, Pastor/Founder,

Sanctuary Church of the Open Door.

Over seventy church leaders came out in the snow early on a Saturday morning to support

Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell for re-election to Philadelphia's City Council. Photo Credit:Martin Regusters

Page 14: Black Professionals News

14 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

Earl Harvey & Rhonda YancyEvery Last Friday of The Month Old School

Mt. Airy Groove Party

PHILLY'S PLATINUM GRILLEMarket Square Shopping Plaza

7719 Crittenden Street in Chestnut Hill • Philadelphia, PA 19118

Time: 9:30 PM - 2 AM • Donation $7.00-email [email protected] or phone 267-244-3860

Need a Catering Hall?Ritz Hall Stimulus Package!

We offer discounts for Friday and Sunday bookingsCall now! Vince Cunningham, 215-324-0647

Specializing in Bed BugsEnterprise Exterminating Supply LLC Serving

the Tri-State area since 1976 environmental

friendly and wild life conservationists

Don't let your pest multiply call us today

@ 215-849-7070 for free estimate

Termites, Ants, Mice we do it all

4943 Wayne Ave. • Philadelphia, PA 19144

Tel. 215-849-7070

www.enterpriseexterminating.com

A Special Book Reading/Signingand WorkshopFeaturing author and poet

Sandra Turner-BarnesMs. Turner-Barnes is the author of BEYOND THE BACK OF THE

BUS - Miss Rosa Parks and the Civil Rights Movement, and 4 books of

poetry. She is the winner of the 1996 Ebony Magazine Literary Award for

Short Fiction and the Vanguard Poetry Award winner for 2011. Ms.

Turner-Barnes co-wrote the Sacred Jazz Suite “ For the Healing of the

Nations,” along with renowned jazz pianist and composer, Miss Gerri

Allen. She performed her original poetry in this series of classical jazz

and gospel concerts in New Jersey and Atlanta, Georgia. Currently, she is

the Executive Director of the Camden County Cultural and Heritage

Commission and an adjunct professor in the Rutgers’ University Roberto

Clemente Humanities Course. She will read her book and recite her

poetry. Her books will be available for purchase. Children 7& up, parents,

teachers, and anyone who enjoys the spoken word. Free admission. Light

refreshments.

February 19, 20113:30 - 5:30 p.m.The Jose Sebourne Art Gallery1215 Vine St., Phila. PA. 19107Contact: [email protected] • josesebourneart.com

Page 15: Black Professionals News

PA Chapter of the National Coalition of100 Black Women, Inc. HIV/AIDSAwareness Day

In support of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the PA Chapter of

the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW-PA) will host a FREE

education and testing program on Saturday, February 12, 2011, from 10:00 a.m.

– 2:00 p.m. at Mercy Eastwick Wellness Center in Southwest Philadelphia.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), on February 7, is a

national HIV testing and treatment community mobilization initiative designed

to encourage Blacks across the United States and Territorial Areas to get

educated, get tested, get involved, and get treated.

“It is time for our people, from all levels and walks of life to raise

awareness and visibility of HIV/AIDS in Black communities; locally,

regionally, nationally and internationally.” says Leslie P. Graves, NCBW-PA, President.

Joining in on this effort, the Health Federation of Philadelphia will provide

the FREE testing along with resources for attendees.

For more information on the NCBW-PA visit www.ncbw-pa.com.

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter is

an advocacy organization that advocates on behalf of women of color, through

national and local actions and strategic alliances that promote leadership

development and gender equity in health, education, economic development and

public policy.

The Black Professionals News • February 2011 15

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16 The Black Professionals News • February 2011

Offer expires February 28, 2011