Lehigh Valley Black News Network

NAACP will hold its 32nd Annual “Tribute to a King” celebration January 16th at 11:00AM

2012-01-12T11:48:00.000-05:00

The Allentown Branch of the NAACP will hold its 32nd Annual “Tribute to a King” celebration on Monday, January 16th at 11:00AM hosted at the historic St. James A.M.E. Zion Church located at 4th and Union Streets in Allentown where the Reverend Thomas E. Sweatt is the Pastor.

This annual spirited event celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and the public is invited to attend. This year’s theme, “Education – Content of Character”, highlights Dr. King's message that we be judged by the content of our character and not the color of one's skin.

Rebecca “Becky” Pringle

The keynote speaker will be Rebecca “Becky” Pringle, who was elected secretary-treasurer of the National Education Association in July 2008. As secretary-treasurer of the nation's largest professional organization, Pringle ranks third among NEA leadership. She previously served as a member of NEA’s nine-member Executive Committee from 2001 to 2007.

A middle school teacher with 31 years of classroom experience, Pringle has held Association positions at the local, state, and national levels, including the Pennsylvania State Education Association and NEA Board of Directors. Most recently she served as a teacher on special assignment working with the Susquehanna Township (Pa.) School District Closing the Achievement Gaps initiative and PSEA’s Minority Community Outreach program.
Pringle’s long history of leadership includes a focus on diversity issues, student achievement, and developing leaders within the Association. “In the words of James Baldwin, ‘Not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed unless it is faced.’ We have no choice but to face the challenges in public education with vision, commitment, voracity, and courage,” she says.

During her terms on the NEA Board and Executive Committee, Pringle chaired the NEA Reading Task Force and NEA ESEA Advisory Committee, which helped prepare the organization for the law’s reauthorization. And as a member of the Association’s Program and Budget Committee, she provided key input and guidance on the use of NEA resources with a budget that exceeded $307 million.

The NAACP was founded in 1909 and is the oldest civil rights organization in the world. For more information, contact Dan Bosket, President – Allentown NAACP at 610-780-9903.

PA Governor Corbett Announces New Leaders of Women's, Latino Affairs, African American and Asian Affairs Advisory Commissions

2011-12-17T13:45:00.000-05:00

By Pennsylvania Office of the Governor Last modified: 2011-12-13T20:09:42Z

Published: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2011 - 12:09 pm

HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 13, 2011 -- /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today announced the new leaders of the following advisory commissions:

Governor's Advisory Commission on Asian American Affairs: Amy Kiyota has been named executive director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on Asian-American Affairs. Kiyota most recently served as the Development and Marketing Manager for the Asian Arts Initiative in Philadelphia. Amy studied abroad in Asia, is fluent in Japanese, and graduated with honors in East Asian Studies. She is based in the Governor's Southeast Office in Philadelphia.

Commission for Women and Governor's Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs:Maria Montero has been named executive director of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women and the Governor's Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs. Montero most recently served as the Northeast PA Territory Manager for Abbott Laboratories. She was a member of GACLA during the Ridge administration, served as the editor of the El Torero Spanish Newspaper based in Allentown, and is a founding member of the Power of Women networking initiative. She speaks Spanish and is based in Harrisburg.

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/12/13/4120157/pa-governor-corbett-announces.html#ixzz1gom2Q3Zd

This Week's Candidate Nights, Lehigh Valley Elections

2011-10-24T11:46:00.003-04:00

brought to you by Lehigh Valley Ramblings

Visit the League of Woman Voters for more info on the November 8th Election

Monday, October 24 Bethlehem City Council candidates' night (all have confirmed) Church of the Manger 1401 Greenview Drive, Bethlehem, Pa. 7:00 PM hosted by a Northwest block watch. Candidates will "answer your questions and address your concerns."

Monday, October 24th 7:00 PM St. John’s Lutheran Church – 501 Chestnut Street, Emmaus, PA Meet, greet and ask questions of candidates from Court of Common Pleas Lehigh County Commissioners at Large Emmaus Borough Council Emmaus School Board Hosted by the Women’s Club of Emmaus. For more information please call 610-797-0415.

Monday, October 24 Lehigh County Judge (Dan McCarthy & Dough Reichley) South Whitehall Comm'rs (3 openings) Luther Crest 800 Hausman Road, Allentown, PA 7 PM Sponsored by League Women Voters

Tuesday, October 25 Bethlehem City Council Debate (all candidates confirmed) Salem Lutheran Church, Fellowship Room 537 High Street, Bethlehem, Pa. 6:30 PM sponsored by Neighbors on Watch Block Watch questions from audience permitted. The Morning Call's Nicole Radzevich, The Express Times Lynn Olanoff and yours truly will serve as panelists. Meet and greet follows debate. Parking lot off High Street, and on-street parking available. Format: Two-minute opening, two questions from each panelist, pre-approved questions from the floor, read by the moderator, Rev. Walter Long. Two-minute closings.

Thursday, October 27 Northampton County Council Debate District 1: Ken Kraft and Seth Vaughn District 2: J. Michael Dowd and Robert Werner District 3: Lamont McClure and Matt Connolly District 4: Ron Angle and Scott Parsons Northampton County Courthouse, Council Chambers, 7th and Washington streets, Easton, Pa. 18042 sponsored by League of Women Voters Questions from League and audience permitted

Thursday, October 27 Northwestern Lehigh School Board Candidates Northwestern Lehigh Middle School Auditorium 7:00 PM sponsored by League of Women Voters Wednesday, November 2 Candidates' debate for Easton School Board, County Council and Controller Chrin Community Center, Palmer Township 6:30 PM sponsored by TEA-LV.

Wednesday, November 2 Lower Macungie Comm'rs (two seats) Hillside School 2697 Brookside Road, Macungie, PA 7 PM sponsored by League Women Voters, who will pre-approve written questions Thursday, November 3 Macungie Borough Council (three seats in play) Macungie Institute 510 E Main St, Macungie, PA League of Women Voters will pre-approve written questions.

BREAKING NEWS: Civil Rights Giant Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth Has Died At 89

2011-10-06T21:53:00.000-04:00

The Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, who helped lead the civil rights movement, has died, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute said Wednesday. He was 89.
Shuttlesworth is among the iconic figures honored in the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta. King once called Shuttlesworth “the most courageous civil rights fighter in the South.”
When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against segregated busing in Montgomery, Alabama, Shuttlesworth rallied the membership of a group he established in May 1956 — the Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights — to challenge the practice of segregated busing in Birmingham.
Shuttlesworth also helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, with King and other civil rights leaders.

Read full story on CNN

Larry Holmes leaving Larry Holmes Drive

2011-10-01T13:20:00.000-04:00

What's driving him out, he says, is the one opponent he can't beat: a crush of higher taxes, both from Easton Area School District and Mayor Sal Panto Jr.'s controversial Neighborhood Improvement District proposal. The improvement district proposal alone could bump up his annual bill by about $3,600.
"I'm tired of all the taxes going up, every week, every year," he said. "Every time someone has an idea, they raise taxes — and the people get hit. "I've done a lot for Easton," he added. "I want to know what Easton does for me." read more

Lafayette Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month 09/27/2011 - 7:30pm - 9:00pm

2011-09-19T14:50:00.000-04:00

Edward Schumacher-Matos, ombudsman for National Public Radio

Keynote address speaks to U.S. Immigration Policy

When: Tue, 09/27/2011 - 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Where: Colton Chapel

EASTON, Pa. (www.lafayette.edu) September 19, 2011 — Lafayette College celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month with the theme “Sin Fronteras (without borders),” Sept. 15-Oct. 17. The month’s keynote address, “U.S. Immigration Policy,” will be presented by Edward Schumacher-Matos, who was recently named the ombudsman for National Public Radio, at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27 in Colton Chapel. The talk is free and open to the public.

“We hope [to] inspire the Lafayette community to think about the borders we create between cultures, and to find ways to deconstruct them,” says John McKnight, dean of intercultural development. “The keynote address will launch an important conversation about the social, economic, and political implications of U.S. immigration policies.”

Schumacher-Matos has spent more than three decades as a journalist, author, columnist, publisher, and editor for publications such as The Miami Herald, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. During his career, he has covered issues in Japan, Latin America, Portugal, South Korea, and Spain. At The Philadelphia Inquirer, Schumacher-Matos was part of the team that won a 1980 Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant accident.

In addition, events in Lafayette galleries include:

- An exhibition of paintings, drawings and prints, Beso de mí Arte (The Kiss of My Art), by Mexican artist Karima Muyaes, artist-in-residence at Lafayette’s Experimental Printmaking Institute, runs from Oct. 6 through Nov. 20 in the EPI Riley Temple Gallery, located on the first floor of the Lafayette College Portlock Black Cultural Center, 1 McCartney St. An opening reception will be held at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6.

- An exhibition spanning the 30-year career of Cuban-born photographer Maria Martinez-Cañas runs from Oct. 8 through Dec. 18 in the Morris R. Williams Center for the Arts Gallery, 317 Hamilton St. The artist will talk about her works at 4:10 p.m., Monday, Oct. 17 in the Williams Center, room 108. For more information, contact Michiko Okaya, director of Lafayette art galleries, (610) 330-5361, artgallery@lafayette.edu or http://galleries.lafayette.edu/category/williams-center-gallery/2011-12/.
Hispanic Heritage Month is sponsored by the Office of Intercultural Development and the Hispanic Society of Lafayette in collaboration with the departments of foreign languages and literatures, government and law, and history; the Experimental Printmaking Institute; the Lafayette Intercultural Networking Council; the Office of International and Off-Campus Education; the American studies, film and media studies program; the Latin American and Caribbean studies program; and the Williams Center for the Arts.

Contacts: Kathleen Parrish (610) 330-5524 Brenda Jocsak (610) 330-5121 Media Relations Associate

Communications Division

Lafayette College Easton, PA 18042
jocsakb@lafayette.edu http://www.lafayette.edu/

No African Americans Pictured in 9/11 Commemorative

2011-09-12T02:23:00.000-04:00

Time magazine this week published "Beyond 9/11: Portraits of Resilience," a photo-rich commemorative edition dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. No identifiable African Americans are pictured in its 64 pages.

Asked about the omission, Time spokesman Kerri Chyka said by email: "TIME is declining to comment at this time."

Read more...

"I Am My Sister's Keeper Single's Ministry" invites ALL FEMALES: Single, Married, Mothers, Daughters and Young Adults to a unique service Saturday, September 24h 2011

2011-09-04T02:57:00.003-04:00

Edward A. Thompson, Pastor

"I Am My Sister's Keeper Single's Ministry" invites ALL FEMALES: Single, Married, Mothers, Daughters and Young Adults to a unique service Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 4:00 PM. Dr. LaVerne Adams, Pastor, Teacher, Author, Community Leader and Vision Architect of the Cathedral of Praise Community Church, Philadelphia, PA will deliver the message "Driven by Destiny." Dr. Adams is dynamic transformational speaker and self-improvement specialist with a passion to help people become empowered to reach their highest potential.

She is a recognized church leader with the American Baptist Churches and is a member of the Abundant Harvest Fellowship of Churches under the direction of Bishop David G. Evans.

God has so much more in store for us as "Women of God" as we avail ourselves to be God’s choicest vessel fit for the Master’s use in a new age, a new millennium and a new world. Join us as we celebrate one another as "My Sister's Keeper" Saturday, September 24, 2011, 4:00 PM. A flyer is attached that details the event, a brief bio of Dr. Adams and contact information.

We pray your schedule is free to join the "I am My Sister's Keeper Single’s Ministry" as we touch and change lives every day through Christ Jesus.

Standing on His Promises, Sister Shirley Buie and Sister LaVerne Chapman

For Additional Information Contact: Second Baptist Church, 1016 Wood Street, Bethlehem, PA 18017 Edward A. Thompson, Sr. Pastor

Clerk's Office:(610) 691-9783 (leave voice message for return call)

Pastor's Office:(610) 867-0652

Webpage: www.secondbaptistpa.org

'Bad time to be a black man in Libya'

2011-08-30T23:16:00.000-04:00

CNN|Added on August 30, 2011An ITN camera crew follows a terrified group of Nigerian men pleading their innocence in front of anti-Gadhafi forces.

Bill's Acting for the 21st Century Class

2011-08-29T12:50:00.000-04:00

If you were trying to remember not to forget, then don't!

Just five days before the 15% discount offer is no longer available for Bill's Acting for the 21st Century Class.

(Right now we have four amazingly brilliant and wonderful participants "enrolled" , and we need six, two more, to make it worthwhile for everyone.)

Mondays from September 12 through December 5, 6:30PM– 8:30PM, $360

Modest Financial Assistance is available for those in need.

CONTACT: cathleen@touchstone.org

Explore the techniques and vocabulary essential to understanding the craft of creating a 21st century performance. This introductory course to the art of acting/performance is taught through theatre games, physical play, scene study and collective exploration. The class is open to those who wish to hone their skills, as well as beginners who are curious about performing. Learn by doing--with emphasis upon movement, physical manipulation, and the use of voice in the development of characterization and dramatic gesture, with an in-class final performance. Rehearsal outside of class time is required.

Nickel & Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America”: Barbara Ehrenreich on the Job Crisis & Wealth Gap

2011-08-08T11:31:00.000-04:00

Congressional Black Caucus plans to force GOP’s hand on debt vote

2011-08-01T23:17:00.001-04:00

by Felicia Sonmez

Posted at 05:11 PM ET, 08/01/2011

Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, dissatisfied with the debt-ceiling deal negotiated by President Obama and leaders in Congress, are planning a procedural move on Monday that would require a majority of House Republicans to cast their votes on the measure before CBC members cast theirs.
“A quorum of the Caucus convened and agreed to abstain from voting until the majority of Republican members have voted on the debt ceiling package,” Rep. Andre Carson (D-Ind.), the caucus whip, said in an e-mail to CBC members Monday afternoon.
The CBC is comprised of 45 members – 44 Democrats and one Republican, Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.). Many of the group’s members have said they strongly oppose the debt-limit plan because it would make cuts to programs that benefit society’s most vulnerable -- including seniors, minorities and the poor -- while not calling for any tax increases as part of the “balanced” approach that Obama and congressional Democrats favor (read more)

National Urban League and NAACP Presidents Meet With President Obama

2011-07-28T12:35:00.000-04:00

By Marc Morial

Published 1 day ago

“It is clear that the unemployment numbers throughout the country require effective legislation and tangible action to address the crisis. To address the unemployment crisis and the need for job creation solutions in underserved communities, the CBC has called upon the private and public sectors to immediately remedy the crisis by going into communities with legitimate, immediate employment opportunities for the underserved.”
— U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chairman, Congressional Black Caucus

This past week Ben Jealous, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and I forcefully entered the debt ceiling debate during a meeting with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office.

During our meeting, we made it clear that as a final deal is hammered out to raise the debt ceiling and prevent the nation from defaulting on August 2, no steps should be taken that will shred the social safety net — the last line of economic defense for millions of working class and middle class Americans.

With African American unemployment at 16.2 percent and the jobless rate for Hispanics also in double digits at 11.6 percent, it (more here)

Richard Wolff: Debt Showdown is "Political Theater" Burdening Society’s Most Vulnerable

2011-07-28T11:48:00.000-04:00

2011-07-27T16:08:00.000-04:00

Fired Army Whistleblower Receives $970K For Exposing Halliburton No-Bid Contract In Iraq

2011-07-26T13:16:00.002-04:00

EXCLUSIVE: Fired Army Whistleblower Receives $970K For Exposing Halliburton No-Bid Contract In Iraq

NAACP 69th Annual Freedom Fund and Awards Banquet Saturday July 30, 2011

2011-07-08T13:28:00.000-04:00

The Allentown Branch of the NAACP will be having its 69th Annual Freedom Fund and Awards Banquet on Saturday July 30, 2011, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn located at 9th and Hamilton Streets in center city Allentown.

Attorney Lacy R. Wheeler (Center)

Our keynote speaker will be Attorney Lacy R. Wheeler who is currently Vice-President of the Pennsylvania State Conference of NAACP Branches. Attorney Wheeler, in addition to handling civil rights issues, is a strong advocate of increasing state funding to ensure that the public school educational experience provides an outcome that allows all of our youth the opportunity to be successful in life.

As always, the Allentown NAACP’s officers and its members have been responding to numerous complaints covering the areas of education, employment, housing and due process.

Volunteers run the organization and the annual Freedom Fund banquet is our primary fund raising effort. All funds raised will go toward financing the banquet and NAACP operations. Individual tickets can be purchased for a donation of $45.00 each.

Each ticket includes a buffet dinner. Tickets will not be available at the door.

A favorable response would be greatly appreciated. If you have any questions or for tickets, please contact Dan Bosket, President and Banquet Chairperson, at 610-780-9903 or aabosket1953@yahoo.com

2011-07-03T13:00:00.002-04:00

Artifest, Saturday, June 11th and Sunday, June 12th, 10am - 6pm

2011-06-10T08:43:00.001-04:00

Saturday, June 11th and Sunday, June 12th, 10am - 6pm: Artifest at the Museum of Indian Culture (2825 Fish Hatchery Road) in Allentown. Cultural exhibits, artists, dance and food from around the world. Visit www.artifest.org or call 610-797-2121 for more info.

R&B legend Aaron Hall: An intimate evening with family and friends, Allentown Symphony Hall, Tuesday June 21 6:30pm

2011-06-09T10:03:00.004-04:00

(Black Star Communications) June 6, 2011 — R&B legend Aaron Hall will perform live in concert with family and friends at Allentown Symphony Hall, on Tuesday June 21 at 6:30 p.m.

A platinum-selling artist and lead singer of the New Jack Swing trio GUY, Aaron Hall has been captivating audiences for more than 25 years. The Singer and songwriter, who MTV dubbed one of the strongest vocalists of the past two decades, brings a unique style and memorable sound to a string of hits. His musical genius on chart-topping hits such as “Let’s Chill” and “Groove Me” helped redefine the musical landscape of the era and are crowd favorites. He has also produced collaborated and written songs for the likes of Bobby Brown and others.

Damion and Aaron

The recipient of the Soul Train Music Award, lead singer Aaron Hall has written and produced on soundtracks for major motion pictures such as Alpha Dog “Toss it up,” Love & Basketball “I Like” and Boomerang “It’s Gonna be Alright.”

Showtime is 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available starting from $29.00, plus tax and convenience fees, and can be purchased by calling (866) 4MY-TIXS or visiting www.TicketAnnex.com.

For more information contact info@blackstarbooking.com, or visit www.blackstarbooking.com.

2011-05-29T11:19:00.000-04:00

Change.org|Start an Online Petition »

Tommy Davidson and Friends All Star Comedy Show Friday, May 20, 2011 at 9:00 PM

2011-05-19T03:00:00.000-04:00

"One Mic Entertainment Presents Tommy Davidson & Friends All-Star Comedy Show starring Tommy Davidson, featuring Richie Redding, Jason Anders, & Drew Fraser, hosted by Shawn Harvey. You've seen Tommy Davidson for years on the Wayans brothers' hit sketch comedy series "In Living Color", and in motion pictures Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Strictly Business, Booty Call and Juwanna Mann only to name a few! Now see him live for one night only in your backyard! A.B.E.'s Original Comedy Show is bringing you a heavy hitting line-up starring a legendary headliner who will make you laugh into tears. Atmosphere is strictly mature so please dress to impress. A show you can't miss at a price you can't beat. CERTIFIED HILARIOUS!

Tommy Davidson and Friends All Star Comedy Show

Friday, May 20, 2011 at 9:00 PM Allentown Symphony Hall

23 North 6th St. Allentown, PA 18101

Phone: (610) 432-6715

Website: www.allentownsymphony.org

E-Mail: boxoffice2@allentownsymphony.org

Map & Directions

America's Original Black Comic Superhero 'Panther' Returns

2011-05-19T02:00:00.006-04:00

The new 12-episode TV and DVD series,The Black Panther, has nothing do with the black empowerment group of the ‘60s and ‘70s, and everything to do with fantasy and animation. Co-producer Reginald Hudlin, a filmmaker and the former president of entertainment for BET, is using the project to revive the first black superhero in mainstream American comics.

The series is a partnership between Marvel Knights Animation and BET. Hudlin recently discussed the character’s return (forty years after he first appeared) and the importance of a black superhero to comic book fans with NPR’s Michel Martin.

Hudlin calls the Black Panther superhero is “a perfect idea.” Why? “He's an African king who's also a superhero. He has this technologically advanced country that is completely independent. He's wealthy, he's intelligent, he's brave and strong. He's as perfect a creation as Superman or Batman or any of the, you know, great comic book characters.”

Voices for the series should sound familiar. Black Panther’s belongs to the Academy Award-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou, originally from Benin in West Africa. Kerry Washington, Alfre Woodard, singer Jill Scott also have roles.

Read more at the Root or listen on NPR here

Primary Election Day

2011-05-15T13:53:00.002-04:00

Time Tuesday at 8:00am - Wednesday at 7:00pm

Location Your Local Municipal Primary

More Info For more info visit this link: http://www.lwvlv.org/voteguide_2011.htm

Find out who the Democrats are in your area.

Why Obama shouldn't have had to 'show his papers'

2011-04-28T08:03:00.000-04:00

Why Obama shouldn't have had to 'show his papers'-By Goldie Taylor 11:36 AM on 04/27/2011

The Grio

This morning, as White House staffers released copies of the president's long form birth certificate, I couldn't shake the feeling that something very ugly was going on. For the first time in recorded history, a sitting president of the United States found it necessary to produce his original birth certificate for public inspection. Not once, in 235 years, have we ever demanded proof that our president was born on American soil.

Read the Full Story here

April 26th from 9am – 2pm Children’s March to Save Public Education

2011-04-25T17:27:00.002-04:00

In response to Governor Corbett’s Educational budget cuts, the PA State Conference NAACP is organizing a one-day mass march —- lead by children —— to the state capitol, April 26th from 9am – 2pm.

The on-the-ground coordinator for the “Children’s March to Save Public Education” is John Jordan, former Bucks County president. Questions and more information contact him at 215-715-5681.

Take Action to Stop SB1- another attack on public education and local property taxes

Voucher Advocate Betsy DeVos, Right-Wing Think Tanks Behind Koch-Style Attack on PA Public Schools

2011-04-25T15:10:00.001-04:00

2011-04-19T11:49:00.000-04:00

Posted by field negro

I am sure that not many of you reading this have ever heard of Marilyn Davenport. You would be excused if you didn't.

She happens to be a hot- shot republican party official in Orange County, California and a tea party member.

I am also sure that many of you reading this who happen to be in a certain clique of A-merry-cans have seen the picture accompanying this post. (One of my regular posters uses it as their pic to accompany his/her post.) It's the kind of stuff ignorant racist circulate among themselves to make themselves feel better about their own pathetic lives and miserable existence.

(Read more on this here)

Black Press Week Commemorates The Founding Of Freedom’s Journal

2011-03-28T08:51:00.000-04:00

The Weekly Challenger
Originally posted 3/25/2011
By: Carole Geary

By Karen Reedus Jasper

Special to the NNPA from The Chicago Crusader

CHICAGO - In celebration of the 184th anniversary of the founding of Freedom’s Journal, the first black newspaper on March 16, 1827 by John B. Russwurm and Samuel E. Cornish in New York City, the National Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation held three days of activities to commemorate the milestone as part of Black Press Week. Read more at the Weekly Challenger

How come Head Start is always on the chopping block?

2011-03-16T20:00:00.000-04:00

In the ongoing budget battle between Democrats and Republicans over which programs to cut, Head Start, the popular preschool program serving nearly a million lower income children, have come under attack from Congressional Republicans. In the Senate, Republicans voted for a $2 billion dollar cut to President Obama's proposed 2011 Head Start budget of $8.2 billion dollars. That GOP budget plan failed in the Senate, but President Obama scolded them last week at a press conference, saying that Congress shouldn't try to find budget savings in Head Start, because "that's not where the money is".

But the bigger question is: In a world where millionaires are getting billions in tax cuts, why are Republicans going after funding for poor children in the name of fiscal responsibility? In a budget filled with subsidies to farmers, defense contracts for weapons the military doesn't want and need, why go after the children? To understand their motivation, you have to go back to their conservative view of government and how it doesn't include empowering the poor, even if they're children.

Read more at the Grio

Black & White Ball Saturday, April 9, 2011

2011-03-14T14:40:00.001-04:00

Sponsored by: The Friends & Family Committee St. John A.M.E. Zion Church

718 Pawnee Street Bethlehem, PA 18015

Where: The Banana Factory 25 W. Third Street Bethlehem, PA 18015

When: Saturday, April 9, 2011 7:00 P.M. – Midnight

Featuring - the Comedy Stylings of Regina Scott

Tickets: Cost: $50 pp

Call 610-868-7597 610-262-9605 610-868-8688

Attire: Formal to semi-formal -

Advanced tickets strongly encouraged

Free Wealth Workshop with DR. HARRY BENJAMIN Thursday March 31, 2011

2011-03-14T13:24:00.021-04:00

Endorsed by Actor and Activist Danny Glover as an ECONOMIC EQUALIZER FOR DIVERSE PEOPLE

ORGANO GOLD EMERALD

DR. HARRY BENJAMIN Will show you how to create wealth

Join us at the Banana Factory RISBON BOARD ROOM 25 W 3Rd St Bethlehem PA, 18015

Thursday March 31, 2011 6:30pm Doors Open

Session ends 8pm Space limited - Capacity 25

Call today RSVP- 484-240-1820

Light refreshment will be served.

Thank you Mr. Lincoln. I think.

2011-03-06T09:28:00.000-05:00

I know that it has been almost a month since Lincoln's birthday, but it seems that, once again, A-merry-ca is struggling with some uncomfortable truths about one of her icons.

"McLEAN, Va. – Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address has inspired Americans for generations, but consider his jarring remarks in 1862 to a White House audience of free blacks, urging them to leave the U.S. and settle in Central America.

"For the sake of your race, you should sacrifice something of your present comfort for the purpose of being as grand in that respect as the white people," Lincoln said, promoting his idea of colonization: resettling blacks in foreign countries on the belief that whites and blacks could not coexist in the same nation.

Lincoln went on to say that free blacks who envisioned a permanent life in the United States were being "selfish" and he promoted Central America as an ideal location "especially because of the similarity of climate with your native land — thus being suited to your physical condition."

As the nation celebrates the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's first inauguration Friday, a new book by a researcher at George Mason University in Fairfax makes the case that Lincoln was even more committed to colonizing blacks than previously known. The book, "Colonization After Emancipation," is based in part on newly uncovered documents that authors Philip Magness and Sebastian Page found at the British National Archives outside London and in the U.S. National Archives.

In an interview, Magness said he thinks the documents he uncovered reveal Lincoln's complexity.

More on this at Field Negro

African Americans Must Reclaim Black History Month

2011-02-23T08:50:00.000-05:00

How did we allow it to devolve into a celebration of handpicked and anointed heroes, stripped of their historical relevance and made into hollow representations of themselves?
By: Mychal Denzel Smith
Posted: February 12, 2011 at 12:14 AM

I remember the first time I was called a nigger. It was during sixth-grade phys ed class, after a disappointing game of touch football. One of my white classmates took offense at my aggressive style of play, and I took offense to him shoving me in response. When I confronted him, verbally berating him with every curse word I knew, he retaliated by calling me a nigger.

My fists clenched on their own as the adrenaline coursed through my veins and my steps became quicker, all thoughts of peaceful conflict resolution tabled for the moment. The only thing that saved him from an epic beating that day was a girl from another class witnessing my pursuit and swiftly moving to restrain me, my fists and my emotions.

I recall another, less volatile, childhood memory that was instrumental to informing my ideas about race and racial identity. Conversations on myriad topics took place on the school bus I rode as a high school student, and race, as thorny as it may have been, was never excluded.

There was a set of white twin girls who seemed obsessed with looking and acting "black," as far as they understood the concept. They had no shame in asking the black students what would be required of them to achieve their goal. They asked me -- but with hesitancy, because they presumed I was biracial: "You're not all the way black, are you? You don't talk like it."

It's no accident that these memories come to me most vividly during Black History Month. Every year, as the first of February rolls around, it brings renewed discussions about the purpose, necessity (or lack thereof) and viability of Black History Month, conversations that are surely intensifying in the age of Obama.
(continued at the Root)

Recy Taylor: A Symbol of Jim Crow's Forgotten Horror

2011-02-16T13:11:00.000-05:00

After her brutal gang rape, Recy Taylor became a global symbol of American injustice and helped inspire the civil rights movement. So why has nobody heard of her today?

by Cynthia Gordy - the Root

Sept. 3, 1944: It's a damp evening in the Alabama black belt, nearly midnight, but services at Rock Hill Holiness Church in the small town of Abbeville have just let out. Recy Taylor, a 24-year-old sharecropper, sets out along the town's fertile peanut plantations, accompanied for the walk home by two other worshippers from the African-American congregation. Moments later, a green Chevrolet rolls by -- and their routine journey takes a horrifying turn.

Wielding knives and guns, seven white men get out of the car, according to Taylor and witnesses from a state investigation of the case. One shoves Taylor in the backseat; the rest squeeze in after her and ride off. Her panicked friends run to tell the sheriff.

After parking in a deserted grove of pecan trees, the men order the young wife and mother out at gunpoint, shouting at her to undress. Six of them rape Taylor that night. Once finished, they drive her back to the road, ordering her out again before roaring off into the darkness.

Days after the brutal attack, Taylor's story traveled (continued here)

Second Baptist Church 2011 Men’s Conference Friday and Saturday, March 4-5, 2011

2011-02-13T10:57:00.010-05:00

Pastor Edward A. Thompson
Second Baptist Church Bethlehem, PA

Calling all Mighty Men of God—from the north, south, east and west! God is pouring out a double portion of supernatural miracles on His people.

Clear your schedule and prepare to attend the Second Baptist Church 2011 Men’s Conference, Friday and Saturday, March 4-5, 2011.

Our Friday evening Worship Service at 7:00 pm, with Pastor Phillip Davis of Greater Shiloh Church of Easton PA is FREE and open

Pastor Phillip Davis

to the public. Husbands bring your wife along with your children; invite relatives, friends, neighbors, co-workers and/or be a disciple to a lost soul and bring him/her with you to hear the Word of God.

Workshops on Saturday are ‘FOR MEN ONLY’ fathers, sons, teenagers and seasoned pillars. Friday Evening, 7:00 pm - Open to Public "No Charge"

Saturday Morning Workshops:
Workshop #1 - Saturday Morning March 5, 2011, 9:00 am Pastor Terence L. Johnson Cathedral International North Hills Church Teaneck, NJ

Workshop #2 - Saturday Morning March 5, 2011, 10:15 am Bishop Harry W. Pendleton, Sr. Faith and Love Center Pentecostal Church Philadelphia, Pa

Workshop #3- Saturday Morning March 5, 2011, 11:30 am Pastor Edward A. Thompson Second Baptist Church Bethlehem, PA

1:00 pm - Lunch – Fellowship Hall

To take advantage of the early registration discount Conference Fee including lunch, kindly complete the attached Registration Form and mail one package to the Church: Attention: Deacon Pedro Rivera.

The fee is $20.00/person, before February 20, 2011; thereafter, the fee is $25.00/person.

Additional clarification and registration material may be addressed by email at touchpointformen@aol.com, athomp547@aol.com or by contacting Deacon Pedro Rivera at (610) 691.9783.

SOKONI: CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH!! Saturday, February 5 at 10:00am - March 5 at 6:00pm

2011-02-01T09:20:00.000-05:00

Holiday Inn Hotel Allentown Center City
904 W Hamilton St
Allentown, PA

Black History month is just around the corner & you may be looking for something to do."SOKONI" is the place you want to consider as we celebrate Black History month. Want to learn Swahili,taste a variety of authentic african snacks,pick up a book or two about rich african culture ? For all things celebrating Black History month ,"SOKONI" swahili for "MARKET" will be the place to be.Weekend workshops for the entire family,Fashion, Spoken Word presentation,African drums,African vibes will be held every saturday to keep the spirit alive.A grand finale on Feb 28th will close out the month long celebration in style.Mark your Calender & remember to visit "SOKONI".A portion of our proceeds will benefit a THE CARING PLACE YOUTH DEVELOPEMENT CENTER,Allentown.

FIRST THURSDAY LATINO CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH Thursday, February 3

2011-02-01T09:12:00.000-05:00

at the National Historic Treasure THE FULTON OPERA HOUSE

The African Influence in Latin America: Music, Poetry, Food, Identity

Thursday, February 3
6:00 P.M.

GUEST SPEAKER:

Dr. Eli N. Avila
PA's first Latino Secretary of Health

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES:
Central's PA Recording Artist Amma Johnson
Afro-Caribbean Poetry by Carlos Bristol
Afro-Latino Music
Afro-Latino Dance by Reinaldo Rivera
Afro-Caribbean Singing by Luis Reyes
**FREE**

2011-01-30T13:36:00.001-05:00

"The Black Power Mixtape" - Danny Glover Discusses New Doc Featuring Rare Archival Footage of Angela Davis, Huey P. Newton, Stokely Carmichael

2011-01-24T21:12:00.000-05:00

Unveiling the Martin Luther & Coretta Scott King Memorial Allentown PA 1/17/2011

2011-01-20T10:00:00.002-05:00

Huckleberry Finn' Target Of Campaign By PA Naacp In 1998

2011-01-10T10:22:00.011-05:00

Huckleberry Finn' Target Of Campaign By PA Naacp In 1998 Read article in Morning Call here.

31st Annual “Tribute to a King” celebration on Monday, January 17th at 11:00AM

2011-01-09T13:13:00.002-05:00

The Allentown Branch of the NAACP will hold its 31st Annual “Tribute to a King” celebration on Monday, January 17th at 11:00AM at the historic St. James A.M.E. Zion Church located at 4th and Union Streets in Allentown. This annual spirited event celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and the public is invited to attend. This year’s theme, “Education – The Great Equalizer”, highlights the need for both youth and adults alike to commit themselves to embracing education as the path to improving their quality of life. Dr. King’s life exemplified dedication to education as the means to achieving economic and social advances.

The keynote speaker will be Reverend Karen R. Green, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Muhlenberg College. Karen has 32 years of successful experience working in higher education, student services and student life programs. Prior to joining the Muhlenberg College administration, she was Dean of Students at Wells College and Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Multicultural Affairs at Hamilton College.

Reverend Green received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Agnes Scott College where she held (at various times) the positions of Assistant Dean of Students; Director of Orientation, Residence Life, and Student Activities; and Advisor for Multicultural Affairs and Counseling. She earned her Master of Divinity degree from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University where she was honored with three awards reflecting her excellence in academics, leadership, and faith. During her seminary studies, she also led Emory University's PREP Program, a bridge program for multicultural high school students pursuing studies in math and science.

Reverend Green is the recipient of numerous awards and is an acclaimed public speaker. In her first year at Muhlenberg, Reverend Green founded REJOICE, Muhlenberg’s renowned Gospel Choir. She is an Associate Minister at Union Baptist Church where she was instrumental in creating a community partnership between the Church and Muhlenberg College.

The NAACP was founded in 1909 and is the oldest civil rights organization in the world. For more information, contact Dan Bosket, President – Allentown NAACP at 610-780-9903.

Martin Luther & Coretta Scott King Memorial Statue Placement Wednesday, January 12th 8:30am

2011-01-06T11:50:00.019-05:00

Time: Wednesday, January 12 · 8:30am - 11:30am

Where: Location Union & Martin Luther King Drive Allentown PA

Located: next to the Parketts Building and AME Zion Church.

http://www.mlkmemorialproject.org/

THIS EVENT IS JUST SETTING THE STATUE, NOT UNVEILING IT.

THE UNVEILING CERENONY IS SCHEDULED FOR Monday JANUARY, 17 2011 1:45pm

2010-12-08T07:24:00.000-05:00

Fed prosecutor forms civil rights unit for Western PA

2010-12-08T07:17:00.002-05:00

US Attorney David Hickton

The new U.S. attorney in Pittsburgh has created a five-attorney civil rights unit to handle criminal and civil cases involving hate crimes, police misconduct, and other civil rights issues in the 25-county western district of Pennsylvania.
"It is hard to believe that in 2010 we are still fighting for equality of all Americans," U.S. Attorney David Hickton said at a news conference Tuesday.

Hickton took office in August, replacing Mary Beth Buchanan, who resigned last year before her failed bid for Congress, and established the civil rights unit in October. He waited to make a formal announcement until Thomas Perez, the assistant attorney general who heads the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, could appear in Pittsburgh with him.

The unit will also target sexual exploitation of children and human trafficking, and civil rights issues more likely to prompt lawsuits than criminal prosecutions, such as biased lending and housing practices.

Perez, Hickton, and his civil rights team met with community and local civil rights leaders at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture before Tuesday's news conference. The center two blocks from the federal courthouse where Hickton works is (read more) Fed prosecutor forms civil rights unit for W. Pa. Associated Press The Times Leader, Wilkes-Barre, PA

2010-12-01T07:38:00.004-05:00

By ANDREW GLASS
12/1/10 4:58 AM EST

On this day in 1955, Rosa Parks, an African-American, was arrested and charged with violating a Montgomery, Ala., ordinance that required her to relinquish her bus seat to a white passenger. Her act of defiance sparked a yearlong bus boycott in the segregated city. It helped inspire a crusade that led Congress to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which, among other things, bars discrimination in public accommodations.

Parks’s status as an iconic figure in the civil rights movement began when she was seated in the first row of the rear, which was set aside for blacks. Because the front of the bus was full, the driver demanded that she give up her seat to a white rider. Her failure to do so resulted in a $10 fine, plus an additional $4 in court costs. In 1956, the Supreme Court found the ordinance unconstitutional.

At the time, Parks, a 42-year-old seamstress, served as secretary of the Montgomery chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. She said that she took her action as a private citizen, however, because she was “tired of giving in.”

After her arrest, the Montgomery department store where she worked fired her. Eventually, Parks moved to Detroit, where she found a similar job. From 1965 to 1988, she was a receptionist for Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.).

On Sept. 9, 1996, President Bill Clinton presented Parks with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the executive branch’s highest honor. In 1997, she received a Congressional Gold Medal.

After Parks died on Oct. 24, 2005, her body lay in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, where some 50,000 people viewed the casket. She remains the only nongovernmental American to receive this tribute.

SOURCE: “JOURNEY FROM JIM CROW: THE DESEGREGATION OF SOUTHERN TRANSIT,” BY CATHERINE BARNES (1983)

Read more:

The African American Church - Spiritual and Social Leadership

2010-12-01T07:29:00.000-05:00

Throughout the history of blacks in the U.S., safety has been sought within the walls of the physical church. It has been a safe haven for speech, a place to plan, to share our resources, experiences, hopes and has provided an economic base of operations. It has offered refuge and advocacy on the larger issues of the day and has been a venue to feed us spiritually and to provide our need for biblical perspective and direction. It has been a gathering place to organize around issues of family unity, safety, economic empowerment and where many types of political and social activities were set in motion.

The African-American church has lent itself to religious entity, combined with the feel of a power station when things seemed hopeless. African-Americans worship in a variety of ways, as do members of most other racial and ethnic groups. Most often, African-Americans worship as Baptists, Protestants, Methodists, Pentecostals, Muslims, Catholics, Seventh-Day Adventists, and Jehovah's Witnesses.

Although frequently misunderstood and sometimes misrepresented, the African-American church has played a crucial role in our nation's response to the political, social and civic needs of African Americans, and the poor and under served. With this said, we must urge the Black-Church to respond to the many challenges that our communities are facing still today.

As we approach the Christmas Holiday Season and encounter the many social and economic needs of African Americans and the poor daily, a social and spiritual movement must occur concurrently.

Leaders must move their churches from a closed structure to an open one. I have personally witnessed this transition taking place in some of our church's over the last few years. It is in large part a shift that occurs first within the leadership and is then manifested through "The Word." This is evident in churches where the leaders have come to realize that they must attend to social needs to encourage the spiritual needs.

Whether leaders choose to address social needs by integrating outreach and care messages into sermons and church activities or by establishing ministries to offer more formal programs, the takeaway point is that African-American churches must do more to address the many disparities within it's communities.

The opportunities to engage as community partners in reducing poverty, unemployment, homelessness, hunger, drugs, violence, HIV/aids and other disparities must be a serious commitment of Faith Leaders and Congregants alike. Communities of faith must help to instill a belief in social transformation in the hearts and minds of the black community as with the civil rights movement.

This is what the movement was all about. It was to redeem the soul of America from the triple evils of racism, war and poverty. It was through organizing, advocacy and giving of time, talents, treasures and sometimes the risking of life in service for freedom and advancement.

If we are to go forward, we must go back and rediscover those precious values...

that all reality hinges on moral foundations and that all reality has spiritual control.

Martin Luther King Jr.

Richard P. Burton, Sr., Director

PROJECT R.E.A.C.H., INC.
P.O. Box 440248
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Bus: 904-786-7883 Cell: 610-349-3358
E-mail richbrenfl@msn.com
http://projectreachinc.webs.com/

African-American Achievement Gap to Disappear in 40 Years

2010-11-29T21:03:00.004-05:00

The latest report by A+ Schools revealed that the achievement gap between White and Black students continues to decrease. However, at the rate it is narrowing, it would take 40 years to be eliminated.

Even more disappointing is that the report also notes that while Black student achievement, as demonstrated through performance on Pennsylvania System of School Assessment tests, has increased, a decline in White student achievement also contributed to narrowing the gap.

Despite an unclear picture of how the achievement gap is changing, the report, released in mid-November, concluded that high schools, which have the largest achievement gaps in the district, remain the key areas most in need of improvement. Despite gains made in elementary schools, PSSA scores for grade 11 declined in all subjects.

“Gains made in earlier grades are disappearing in high schools. That threatens our youth’s future prospects for achieving the Pittsburgh Promise, college or job training, and becoming independent members of our community,” said Carey Harris, A+ Schools executive director. “These issues deserve our urgent attention.” continued here African-American Achievement Gap to Disappear in 40 Years

How to Run for Local Office Workshop, Northampton Community College, Kiva building, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

2010-10-10T10:53:00.000-04:00

Thinking of running for local office in next year's municipal elections? This workshop will help you get your campaign off and running.

Pennsylvania has a municipal election every odd-numbered year. That's when we elect people to represent our interests in our home municipalities, on our school boards, in our counties. To help you decide if this is what you want to do, The LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS-LEHIGH VALLEY is offering an invaluable workshop for local candidates on November 20th at NCC, How to Run for Local Office .

The comprehensive workbook that is given to all who attend will be available after the workshop for the same price as the full workshop.

Registration form for the 2010

Please note that the deadline to register is November 12.

There will be experienced campaigners discussing successful techniques, and county elections officials will explain the often-confusing paperwork and answer your questions.

If you haven't decided if you are going to throw your hat in the ring next year, the workshop may help you make up your mind. Potential candidates, campaign treasurers, and committee members will all benefit from the experience and knowledge of the panelists and speakers at the workshop. Spread the word!

Project Blueprint; A blueprint for racial ethnic diversity in volunteer leadership.

2010-10-06T09:55:00.000-04:00

Wednesdays, October 27, November 3-17, December 1-15, 2010
5:30 - 8:30 pm, Lehigh Valley Hospital Muhlenberg

1st floor conference room, 2545 Schoenersville Rd, Bethlehem

The Volunteer Center’s Project Blueprint is a leadership development program with the goal of increasing the number of racial ethnic minorities providing leadership for the boards of Lehigh Valley non profit agencies. It is designed to help these organizations develop boards that are more inclusive, responsive and reflective of the culturally diverse communities they serve. Project Blueprint develops knowledgeable and trained leadership volunteers who can most effectively help agencies meet the new and emerging needs of our community. There is no cost for this program.

This seven session volunteer leadership program covers topics which relate to board membership and leadership skills. Upon completion, the Volunteer Center assists graduates to find suitable board placement.

Program schedule & course objectives

•Session One -

Identify the functions and responsibilities of a non profit board and its members

•Session Two -

Identify the activities that enable a board to fulfill its functions

•Session Three -

Develop an understanding of non profit finances and legal issues

•Session Four -

Develop an understanding of philanthropic fundraising and the role of the board

•Session Five -

Identify the characteristics of effective board leadership

•Session Six -

Communications and meeting skills - the mock board meeting

•Session Seven -

Graduation

Application available here.

Deadline for submission is October 20, 2010

If you have any questions, or would like an application, please call the Volunteer Center at 610-807-0336 or email your contact information to jane@volunteerlv.org. There is no fee for this class but registration is required and the class is limited to 20 participants.