Same Old Insanity Continues

As we embark upon 2016-2017 school year, we must examine the previous school year in the Penns Grove Carneys Point School District. The Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Zenida Cobian, has been at the helm of the district for three years. Under her leadership, there has been some positive modifications: repairs to buildings, revised courses and a partnership with School Based Youth Services Program at Penns Grove High School. However, there are issues and policies implemented by the previous superintendent and are still ubiquitous in our schools.  We currently lack a teaching staff that properly reflects our student population, adequate safety and security procedures for students as well as staff, below average standardized test scores along with zero percent in college and career readiness and a scarcity of African and Hispanic students in Advanced Placement and gifted classes.   

An important issue I raised as a member of the Board of Education was teachers’ attendance throughout the district, particularly at the high school. The Penns Grove High School has 53 certified teaching staff.  Teachers missed, collectively, 110 days out of 180 day school year. This past school year, students at the high school had a 93% attendance record, as compared to the faculty, who had a 39% attendance rate. This means teachers are absent 61% of the time. I find that to be unacceptable, as well as a poor example for our students, who are now mandated by the New Jersey Department of Education to pass PARCC in order to receive a high school diploma.  The high school dropout rate is 24%, six times the state average of 4%.

There is a new principal, Mrs. Lori O’Brien. There are questions in the community. What is Mrs. O’Brien’s plan to improve the high school?  Will she continue calling law enforcement and expelling African and Hispanic American students at rates much higher than their white peers?  Will minorities continue to be inadequately placed in gifted and college level classes?

It’s time for the Board of Education and Dr. Cobian, to bring forth robust and vigorous solutions to these problems instead of avoiding the issues.

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Social Justice Activist

The Status Quo Must Go!

After inundation of the negative news plaguing the local papers, I was greeted by a story of success in the April 25, 2016 edition of The Daily Journal.  The picture resembled an everyday, average class photo; however, the title stated “Bridgeton Ninth Graders Awarded College Scholarships.”  I was intrigued.  These students, though barely in high school, have earned something essential for a successful life: a college education. Help was provided by the Give Something Back Foundation, and made financially possible from schools such as Rowan University, Montclair State University, The College of New Jersey, and St. Peter’s University.  

I shared the article with my local school superintendent, Dr. Cobian.  She was very optimistic in her response, stating, “We will get there, Mr. Hudson.”  In order to achieve this goal, we must shift the direction of the Penns Grove High School.  Our school is currently plagued with a rash of violence.  The principal has been unable to alleviate herself, and has resorted to calling the local police to settle even minor disputes.  In addition to the fights, the SouthJersey Times reported on February 4, 2016 that the school has an abysmal graduation rate, the lowest in Salem County, currently at 74%.

People are quick to blame the children.  Yet as an educated adult, I feel the need to look beyond the cliche of “those kids today.”  Our children are not without blame; however, they alone are not responsible for the chaos.  They have been failed, by an incompetent administration, a lackadaisical guidance department, and an undependable teaching staff.  There are currently 53 certified teachers, who have missed a collective total of between 60-90 days. In which, there are only 180 days in the school year.  

We have introduced over 40 children to the criminal justice system, a number that surpasses our students with plans for college, trade school, or serving our country.There has been no action plan for the leader of our high school staff and students, Dr. Jocelyn Brown.  In order for our school to mirror the achievements of schools like Bridgeton High School, Dr. Cobian must act as the “pirate of the ship.”  Dead weight of the administration, guidance department, and unreliable teachers must “walk the plank.”

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Chair of National Awareness Alliance

Former School Board Member

The Hand That Rocks The Cradle Rules The World!

The last few days I had a lot of time to reflect on the issue with the liquor store in Swedesboro.  I hope that the Black and Hispanic candidates, who are running for school board or any other elected position, convene a voter registration to register people to vote. Here is why; when you look at all the comments that were said on NJ.com in regards to the racist store owner in Swedesboro you must play close attention to the "people" who were making the comments justifying the store owner’s behavior and even making racists comments themselves. They are friends and family members of some if not most teachers’ right here in Penns Grove school district. These are some of the teachers that stand right in front of our children and suppose to educate them who are friends and family members of the same people who make racist comments. Known Racist Store Owner Owner Shut Down Before Protestors Arrive

So you can just imagine what is really going on in our school district and they get away with it because the people know that parents' are not really involved or even show up when it comes to their child’s education. Now you may say that does not mean that the teacher feel the same way about the Black and Brown students because their family members or friends do. Let me just say racism is not a behavior that you are born with. Racism is a behavior that is learned and taught. My mother told me when you hang around with bad people you are "guilty by association." That is why I am very passionate about education because that is where we lose our children through the mis-education.

Because of apathy, complacency and self-hate, people right here in Penns Grove/Carneys Point being clergy, elected officials and just people do not want to address the issue. Systemic institutionalize racism is what 2,500 of our children are under. It has gotten better because of new leadership. There is still work to do.

Any issue that I have taken a position on came out to be true. For example, at an earlier BOE meeting in Penns Grove, a teacher became irate and mad. This particular teacher threw her papers in the air calling the ESY Program (Extended School Year) “stupid” because she did not get selected initially to be one the teachers in the summer program. This was the same teacher that was fired in Salem City for calling Black student a racial slur, yet because of  what people perceived as “white privilege”  and  her uncle being on the BOE, she was able to get another job imposing the same derogatory and racist behavior on African and Latino American students.

There is an ALS challenge that is circling around on social media with celebrities and everyday people. This challenge is called the “cold water challenge” where people pour ice-cold water on thier head. Well I want to start a new challenge. It is called the educational challenge. I challenge everyone to get involved with educational development of the kids by registering to vote, coming to BOE meetings, asking questions about what’s going on, show up to parent/teacher conference and demand better and quality education for your child. Everyone is nominated!

Hidden Agendas: Debbie Bradford's Mission To Undermine The Penns Grove-Carneys Point School Dsitrict!

Gerrymandering is a political gimmick used to alter voting practices and results. The objective is to block a person’s equal access to a public seat or office.  Many of the Penns-Grove –Carneys Point residents and I believe Debbie Bradford, a current Board Member of Penns-Grove Carneys Point School District is “gerrymandering” to block Dr. Zenida Cobian from becoming the next Superintendent of Penns Grove-Carneys Point School District.

The local African-American clergy leaders and Puerto Rican Action Committee members overwhelmingly expressed their support for Dr. Cobian. After the resignation of Greg Wright and Rosanne Chiacchio, Debbie Bradford intentionally has not attended board meetings in hopes of not having a “quorum” or enough members to convene a Board Meeting. Her absences have blocked the board from casting a vote to hire and appoint Dr. Cobian.

Debbie Bradford frequent absences give the appearance that she has a bias against hiring qualified minorities for leadership positions.  At this point, I question her commitment to board as well as her morals, ethics and values when it comes to hiring minorities. I encourage the community through Open Public Records Act to request Debbie’s voting record. People will see that she has voted “no” or she has been “absent” from board meeting when the Interim Superintendent has recommended the hiring of minorities for leadership positions in the district.

It is known that Debbie Bradford is employed as a realtor for Century 21 Town & Country Realty, out of Pilesgrove, NJ. I suspect that she votes “no” to showing minorities homes in predominantly whites neighborhoods and she is absent on days when she is scheduled to perform appraisals in minority homes.   

I believe her motives for being a board member are deceitful. Clearly, she is not on the board to ensure that the children receive a high quality education. Ms. Bradford has her own personal agendas and vendettas. Debbie Bradford’s gerrymandering “efforts” has showed her character to the community.   Likewise, L.A. Clipper’s former owner, Donald Sterling’s “words” showed his character to the world.  

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Chair/Founder

National Awareness Alliance

The fifth little girl who was severely injured in the 1963 Birmingham Church Bombing Deserves Restitution...NOW!:One Person can make a difference...Let's Retire Sarah Collins Rudolp

Petition by

Rev Toni DiPina

Worcester, United States

Because Love Wins:  Sarah Collins Rudolph deserves compensation from the city of Birmingham and the state of Alabama for the rabid climate of hatred and violence its leaders fostered and advocated throughout the civil rights era. Sarah Collins Rudolph is the fifth little girl who was injured in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama that killed four little girls readying for Sunday school. Her sister was killed in the bombing. She lost an eye, suffered severe cuts throughout her body, and has endured years of surgery and medical problems as a result of the bombing --sometimes without health insurance- - and has lived in poverty for the past 50 years. She has been ignored and given no recognition of the many losses she has had to endure as a result of this horrendous hate crime. It is shameful that she has been cast aside.

Many historians mark this national tragedy as the tipping point in the Civil Rights Movement; the moment in which the country understood the extent of segregationist violence. This was an act of homegrown governmental sanctioned terrorism. 

Other victims of terrorist acts have access to reparations, endowments, and/ or victim funds to help them recover and yet Sarah Collins Rudolph has had to struggle alone and forgotten for 50 years. It is time to act! Will you please sign this petition to present to the Birmingham city council to provide her with restitution, and pay her past, present and future medical bills.  We are petitioning the White House and the Justice Department to provide reparation and/ or restorative funds to Sarah and her family.

Please send this viral by sharing on facebook, twitter, email, etc.  Thank you.

http://www.npr.org/2013/01/25/170279226/long-forgotten-16th-street-baptist-church-bombing-survivor-speaks-out

SIGN PETITION AT THIS WEBSITE;  https://www.change.org/petitions/the-fifth-little-girl-who-was-severely-injured-in-the-1963-birmingham-church-bombing-deserves-restitution-now

Who are you taken the community back from? To change a person behavior, you have to change the way they think!

 Looking at the article this morning, “Taking our streets back,” in regards to the “Saggy Pants” ordinance, I could not help to think about the lack of focus. Councilman Carl Washington mentioned the objective of the ordinance: “It was purposefully done for the enrichment and betterment of our youth. We want to teach them how to be role models and follow their purpose in life.” So legislating fashion will teach the youth of Penns Grove to be role models and follow their purpose?

Youth of Penns Grove live under bizarre conditions. I believe that elected officials dismiss the fact Penns Grove community is a heavily impoverished community; the unemployment rate in Penns Grove is a little over 48%; the state  deemed the school district as underperforming and no growth! Yet the focal point is “Saggy Pants Ordinance.” I am not supporting youth wearing their pants low. I just believe legislation is not the way to go to deter youth from this fad.

 Since the betterment and enrichment of the youth is a concern, then where is the socioeconomic development plan that will bring forth jobs, youth programs and initiatives that will allow residents to become home owners?

Meeting with leaders in the civil rights community, I maintain the fact that the ordinance is a violation of the people’s civil rights and civil liberties. I will go on the record and say that if anyone is cited for so-called “Saggy Pants Ordinance,” my organization, National Awareness Alliance will provide legal services to help those whom rights are being violated.

Cultivation of the youth and community comes with hard work and developing social programs, not legislation of fashion. With all of the social ills of the community, I believe this raise a question; Who are you taking the community back from?

 

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Chairman/Founder

National Awareness Alliance

Penns Grove Police: What Happened To Protect & Serve

The persona of a police officer is to protect and serve the community. Some may often look to police officers as positive role models for children who inspire to be a law enforcement official one day. In today’s society that image seems to have disappeared. If you examine the community of Penns Grove, you will see that the residents’ perception of police has changed. The appreciations have changed in the people of the community. Many residents feel as I do, that there is a police chief that fails to bring accountability and responsibility to certain problematic officers. That issue within itself is toxic and psychologically creates great resentment.

After speaking with an inundated amount of residents, many believe that if Penns Grove had a progressive police chief like Philadelphia’s Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey, community policing in Penns Grove would be different. Many residents have several complaints about certain officers and want some type of justice. Not all police officers are bad but you most definitely have to address the problematic officers so that the residents can have some type of relief.

Not long ago Penns Grove Borough Council passed a “saggy pants” ordinance because there were complaining community members that were tired of seeing young men undergarments. Well there is hope for the people. In order to get the police misconduct straightened out, the complaining constituents have to do the same thing the people with the issue of “saggy pants” done, which is “Complain” and sign “Complaints.” I am wondering when is the so-called “Police Committee” will take action to bridge the gap between police and community? There is no way an officer should stand on sidelines with children during the day then later on that night harass and berate the players’ family members and friends. So I say what the late activist, Fannie Lou Hamer said, "You can pray until you faint, but unless you get up and do something, God is not going to put it in your lap.”

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Founder National Awareness Alliance

Penns Grove, NJ

Saggy Pants Law: Is It "Stop and Frisk" By Another Name?

We seem to be living in today’s society when we should be moving forward as a nation; we are moving backwards. Earlier this year the Supreme Court effectively struck down the heart of the Voter Rights Act of 1965; government officials across America are pushing for state voter ID legislation; New York Mayor is fighting to keep “Stop and Frisk” Law and now in the “small town politics” of Penns Grove, NJ, local government has legislated fashion. All in which that seem to target certain ethnic groups.

Dr. Martin Luther King said in his last prophetic “I been to the mountain top” speech in April of 1968, “The greatest right in America is to protest for rights.” So what happens when our rights are infringed upon? A few weeks ago, the Penns Grove City Council passed legislation on wearing “Saggy Pants.” I am in agreement that people should not walk around with their pants so low where you can see their undergarments. However, I do not believe legislation should not be implemented to remedy this “fad” which disproportionally target young African and Latino American men intrigued by the “hip-hop culture.”

Did the local government forget the Declaration of Independence, where it says, “life, liberty and pursuit of happiness?” The local government has taken away the “Inalienable and Fundamental” Rights granted to us all, by stripping people in the community the freedom of expression. Saggy pants is just a fad. Some fads look sillier than others; nonetheless, it is just a fad. For example, Run DMC, a 1980’s rap group wore their addidas shell top sneakers with no shoe laces; rapper LL Cool J, wore his pant legs with one side rolled up to his knee and the other side down. Yet it was “hip” or “cool” to that generation.   

After speaking with many members in the community; African American, Caucasian and Latino males, many feel the “Saggy Pant” ordinance is just another lawful means for certain problematic officers to make contact with the youth. One young man said, “What do they want us to do? It’s nothing here!” Penns Grove has greater issues to be championed. There are problems with guns, drugs, no jobs and educational issues that must be dealt with.

Saggy pants did not kill 3 young men lost from the community. Guns and drugs was the direct result. Saggy pants are not the reason why there is low test scores and high illiteracy rate among 2500 students. I think our local government should concern themselves with cultivating the poor socioeconomic ills of the community and not concerning themselves with what someone looks like. This is not a shot towards the city council. The objective is to influence a broader outlook before making a decision that can greatly affect someone. Parents should enforce what seems to be a parental issue not local government.

Walter L. Hudson Sr.

Founder/Chairman

National Awareness Alliance

Open Letter To Reverend Al Sharpton

Another Open Letter to Reverend Al Sharpton

Greetings Rev.

I am writing this open letter not for attention. The work that I am doing as a civil rights activist will speak for itself. I am writing this letter because I am fed up with your hypocrisy and your mistreatment of people who have supported you down through the years.  

 

 Three years ago, I came to you for help on a police brutality case involving Moshowon Leach, the young man in Penns Grove, New Jersey who was brutally killed by a police officer. You gave me your word that you would help me shed light on the case, but in the end of the day, you did nothing to support the cause. I guess it was not high profile enough for you.

 

Despite the public let down, I was a committed member of your National Action Network, traveling to Harlem every Saturday for nearly two years. I believed in your movement and wanted to be a part of the movement, particularly since you mentioned that you were looking for young leaders to step up and carry on the activism.

 

We attended several speaking engagements and events together and you publicly mentioned that I was your protégé. However, as I became more critical of your tactics and your approach, you further distanced yourself from me.

 

As you will recall, the NAN Voter ID tour was my idea and you even asked if I wanted to be a part of helping you organize during the 2012 election.  Later, you did not include me in any of the organizing efforts. Looking to become a leader in the fight for social justice, I volunteered to help organize in Sanford, Florida following the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, but neither you nor the staff of National Action Network provided me opportunity to utilize my skills to help bring attention to his tragic death.

 

On the morning after the George Zimmerman verdict, I called you offering to help mobilize the response and to remind you that young people should play a central role in organizing the public protests. Trayvon Martin is of my generation. During that heated phone discussion, you dismissed my concerns and claimed that “my ego will be my downfall.”

 

Reverend Sharpton, after my friend Moshowon Leach was killed by police, I was called to the civil rights and social justice movement by a higher power. How the hell can you call yourself a "Reverend" and shun God's people?

 

With all the turmoil you been involved in over the years, it’s critically important that those of us who know you and who have supported you, call you to task for your arrogance. As the scripture says, “How can you say you love a God that you have never seen but hate, talk bad about, shun, mislead the brother and sister you see every day!” John 4:20.

 

Growing up, I was in awe of you Reverend Sharpton. But now, you have become yet another celebrity who is uneasy with mingling with everyday people. When the rich and famous come to the House of Justice in Harlem, you escort them out the backdoor, not allowing your working class supporters—your core constituency—who were with you when the media attacked you for Tawana Brawley, to interface with them. Every Saturday, they give their last dollar to support your cause and movement. You are out of touch with the younger generation which is why they have largely abandoned National Action Network. The average age of the members who attend the rallies, are 50 and up.

 

I was deeply inspired by the open letter written by Chef Carl Redding and that prompted me to write one of my own. Like Chef Redding, I can’t sit idly by and allow you to continue to perpetuate a fraud on our people. To this end, I am calling for a National Boycott of your book when it comes out. You are doing a disservice to the legacy of Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and other civil rights leaders by engaging in a deal with Cash Money—the company that profits off of pushing negative images in our community.

 

While some people have fallen for your buffoonery, trickery and lies, I along with many former NAN members plan to picket your book signings. How can you sign a book deal with a company that you have condemned for their violent rap lyrics and disrespect toward women? Did you think that we were not watching? Nice try, but we gotcha!  

 

Sadly, many do not know of your relationship to Walmart, which has a history of unfair labor practices.  Rev, it is time for you to make your mind up!  No longer can you continue to play both side of the fence.

 

At a time when the black community has so many problems, I’m tired of the contradictions. As a 31-year-old leader who is fighting in the trenches every single day, I want more from my national leaders.

 

As Bob Marley put it, “You can fool some of the people some of the time but you can't fool all the people all of the time.” 

 

The charade, Reverend Sharpton, is over.  It’s time for you to come clean.

 

Walter Hudson, Sr.

President/Founder

National Awareness Alliance

 

Moment of Truth: Penns Grove School District A Burning House?

In the late 1960's, Dr. King had a unsettling discussion with actor/singer Harry Belafonte. Dr. King said to Harry Belafonte, "We've fought long for integration. It looks like we’re gonna get it. I think we’ll get the laws,” he says. “But I’m afraid that I've come upon something that I don’t know quite what to do with. I’m afraid that we’re integrating into a burning house." Fast forward to 2013, I have that same feeling when it comes to the Penns Grove Carneys Point School District. For the past two years, I have brought to light various inconsistencies within the school district. The issues of low test scores; 300 Black and Latino students of the middle school, three years behind in knowledge of math/science; lack of diversity hiring in the positions of teacher and administrators; 25% high school drop rate that triples the state average of four percent (4%), etc. I agree with Gov. Chris Christie's new tenure laws that will promote more accountability with teacher/administration in student achievement on failing school districts. 

My objectives is to ensure that all 2,500 students are receiving the best quality education along with having the best quality resources. In conjunction with the previous issues named, I also want to make sure all minorities receive a fair chance in the hiring process. Yet the superintendent of schools fails to address these issues after being in the district for 10 years. Statistics shows that in each category of student achievement, there has been a steadily decline for all 10 years under the superintendent's leadership. There is no "Human Resources Department." So I implemented the idea of a "Diversity Committee," to aide in the issue and promote more diversity hiring. The superintendent is the "Alpha and Omega," in terms of hiring. Under the leadership of the superintendent, the "Diversity Committee" turned out to be a mirage.

There continues to be no "Checks and Balances" by the Board President imposed on the bad judgement and poor decision making of the superintendent. What the community should realize is that there must be new and effective leadership put in place in the Penns Grove School District starting with superintendent and then school board. Come November is the "Moment of Truth." If new leadership is not voted on to advocate for a new superintendent to move the district forward, we will continue to send 2,500 students in a "Burning House."

Civil Rights Leader, Clergy to Meet with New Jersey Lawmakers to Discuss Gun Violence

Walter Hudson, the founder and chairman of the National Awareness Alliance, a civil rights organization based in New Jersey, will meet with State Senator Stephen M. Sweeney, Assemblyman John Burzichelli and Assemblywoman Celeste Riley on Monday, January 7, 2013 at 10:45 a.m. to encourage them to support a bill sponsored by Senator Raymond J. Lesniak (D-Union) and co-sponsored by Senator Shirley Turner (D-Hunterdon and Mercer) to declare violence a public health crisis and establish a commission to study its causes.

The legislation comes in the wake of the tragic shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. The bill urges the federal government to reinstate its ban on assault weapons and expand background checks to all gun sales and transfers.

“The time has come for us to take a stand against these senseless acts of violence,” says Hudson of Penns Grove. “We call on all lawmakers across the state to support this effort. This is not a Republican or Democratic issue. This is about saving lives.”

Reverend Edward Dorn, pastor of Second Baptist Church in Pedricktown and Salaam Ismial, founder of the New Jersey Anti-Violence Coalition will also be in attendance.

Hudson pledged to meet with Senators Turner and Lesniak in the upcoming weeks and will seek a meeting with Governor Chris Christie to solicit his support for the legislation.

A press conference will be held at 12:30 p.m. outside of Senator Sweeney’s Trenton office.

Walter L. Hudson Runs For Salem County Freeholder

VOTE!

TUESDAY

NOV. 6, 2012

 

 

 

WALTER L. HUDSON SR.

Salem County Freeholder

 

Walter L. Hudson Sr., desires to revitalize Salem County, New Jersey by bridging the social gap and working with other members of the Board of Freeholders to make Salem County more like it used to be. Although he was born in Detroit, Michigan, Walter spent the majority of his life in Penns Grove. He is a 1999 grad-uate of Penns Grove High School and re-ceived an Associate's in Criminal Justice from Salem Community College.  

 

After high school Walter enlisted in the Army where he served four years’ active duty as a Soldier/Logistics Supply Coordinator. He was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas and in 2001 was deployed to Kuwait as part of "Operation Desert Spring." He was subse-quently deployed to the Iraqi Border to protect Kuwait from invasion of Iraq. During his tour of duty in Iraq Walter served in a position where he had the opportunity to develope many leadership skills. These acquired skills enable him to be able to perform the duties which he strives to perform today. Additionally, his hard work and dedication earned him many awards including Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Ser-vice Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

 

After completing his tour of duty, Walter returned to the States and began working in the trucking industry. Feeling this was not his true calling, he starting pursuing his degree. This is where his desire to work in civil rights and social justice began.

 

Currently he works full time organizing a non-profit organization, as well as volunteering in the community. His volunteer activities include:

 

*Member of Saint Mathew Lodge #20 F&A.M.  (Masonic Order)

 

*YMCA volunteer basketball coach

 

*Twins Midget Football Coach

 

*Criminal Justice Club at Salem Community College

 

 

Hudson believes that Education is the key to success. He is currently pursu-ing a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Wilmington University. His desire is ensure that all school districts in the county have quality educational resources to that the children of this county can compete with children in other areas of the country.

He desires to unlock the potential of residents within Salem County by:

1. Bringing industries into the county which will generate jobs.

 

2. Keep residents’ taxes from rising.

 

3. Create a safe environment for businesses, thereby enticing businesses to come into the county.

 

 

4. Make communities a safe haven for residents to raise their family.

   

With all the talent in the county, Hudson feels that with the proper guidance and leadership, opportu-nities will be unlimited. Walter Hudson knows how Salem County used to be he want to be a part of what Salem County will become.
 

 

 

“A change is brought about because ordinary people do extraordinary things.”

― Barack Obama

 

 

Vote for Walter Hudson to see the change that YOU envision.

 

 

Any financial donations can be sent to: Sun National Bank, 270 Georgetown Road, Carneys Point, New Jersey. Make check or money order out to Salem County Independent Democrats.

Thank You!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BREAKING NEWS:CIVIL RIGHT ACTIVISTS, CLERGY AND POLITICIANS TO ATTEND SCHOOL BOARD MEETING TO CALL FOR SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICIALS' RESIGNATION DUE TO MISCONDUCT

Local civil rights activists, clergy and politicians will attend a school board meeting to call for the resignation of Dr. Joseph A. Massare and administrative officials of the Penns Grove Carneys Point Regional School district due to misconduct. 

This issue arose after three female employees formally advised Dr. Massare of their fear of working under Tom Sullivan, Director of Special Education.  One employee wrote, "I am in fear of my safety and I am uncomfortable returning to work with Tom Sullivan.  Another victim is pregnant.  The third victim also expressed her fear of working with Mr. Sullivan.  Dr. Massare heard their outcry but refused to act; instead he returned them back to work in this hostile environment.

Walter Hudson, as Chairman of The National Awareness Alliance, will stand with these three women and community leaders to voice their concerns at a School Board meeting being held on July 16, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. at the Penns Grove Carneys Point Administrative District Building, 100 Iona Avenue, Penns Grove, NJ.   Also attending will be Rev. Dr. Edward Dorn, 2nd Baptist Church of Pedricktown, NJ; Pastors & Ministers of Shiloh Baptist Church of Penns Grove; Mayor John Washington and Councilman Carl Washington Jr.

The community and its leaders are outraged by this incident.  Mr. Hudson explains that "What has happened to three women at the PG-CP School District is no different than what happened at Penn State University with Joe Paterno and Sandusky. Dr. Massare must be held accountable as well as Tom Sullivan.  Everybody has the right to blow the whistle on misconduct under the "Whistle Blower Act," that’s what the employees involved have done, I applaud them for it and the National Awareness Alliance will stand with those involved and advocate for their rights.”

Mayor John Washington insists that, "This type of action will not be tolerated in our community."

Councilman Carl Washington Jr. stated "I think this is sad of what the employees and the community is going through right now, we cannot even deal with educational issues because we have to deal with leadership misconduct; we will get to the bottom of this."

The public is encouraged to come out and stand with these women and community representatives to ensure that they receive the justice that is due them in this unfortunate situation.

 

BREAKING NEWS: Community Activist Contact Superintendent About Alleged Misconduct of a District Official And Calls For District Official's Job!

Penns Grove- On July 11, 2012, Walter Hudson Chairman/Founder of National Awareness Alliance, a civil rights organization; was contacted by concern residents of the community, in regards to an alleged incident that involved the Director of Special Services, Tom Sullivan. Allegedly on July 9, 2012, Monday, Sullivan approached two (2) district employees/interns and requested a ride to Camden, NJ. When one of the employees refused, Sullivan demanded the second employee/intern to take him to Camden; by allegedly stating, “I am your boss, you do what I tell you to do.”

          The employee/intern allegedly transported Sullivan to Morgan Boulevard in Camden, NJ. Sullivan was not found and never return back to work that day. “It is obvious the employees involved are uncomfortable and subjected to a hostile work environment,” said Hudson. Hudson stated, “I contacted Dr. Joseph Massare, Superintendent of the Penns Grove-Carneys Point School District by phone, about the alleged conduct of the District employee because it was alleged that Sullivan asked an employee to transport him to Camden, NJ, during work/business hours.” “I asked Dr. Massare on his voicemail was the alleged incident true along with a series of other questions; Is this conduct unbecoming of a school official, was the employee or intern put into harms way, did the District employee abandon his job responsibility and was this related business in Camden, NJ? “Massare has not return my phone call,” said Hudson.

              Hudson went on to say, “This is the type of inappropriate behavior that holds the District back from progression and if this alleged incident is true, I am calling for Sullivan’s job!”

Time for New Leadership in P.G.-C.P. School District: "Dr. Massare Must Go"

The new report card for the Penns Grove-Carneys Point School District have been published and available to view. Still, the Superintendent of Penns Grove-Carneys Point School District is nowhere close to devising a plan to bridge the educational gap in the community. In Today’s Sunbeam, a front page headlines "P.G.-C.P. school chief reports bullying stats." When it comes to the progress of the students, you never see headlines reporting improvements in the test scores of the students. It seems as the "school chief" have his priorities out of order and no action plan, just a bunch of highfalutin words to divert answering why there is no action plan. The superintendent does not acknowledge that there is a problem, yet he wonder why Brighter Horizon Charter School is steady on the move.

I am not saying the issue of bullying should not be address. However, when is the issue of 311 out of 400 African Americans in the middle school, whom are two (2) years behind in the knowledge of math and science, will be addressed? When are the issues of the Penns Grove High School drop-out rate of 25% will get attention? The State of New Jersey drop-out rate is 4 percent (4%). I guess when 2013 arrive; the superintendent will focus on renewing a $155,000 dollar contract. In my opinion, the community needs a competent and student driven school chief, which will work with the board president, school board, administration, parents and students. We must seek new leadership to bring together which is lost.

What people do not know is that if the problems of the school district remain to exist; one of the options of the State of New Jersey Department of Education is to shut the Penns Grove Carneys Point School District down. All behind what one man; Dr. Joseph Massare fails to do, which is work together with the community in unison to better promote scholars from the school district. Looking at the 2011-2012 report card, there were little improvements. That is not to say do not recognize the minor improvements, but you do not stick a knife in a person back nine inches and pull the knife out six inches then say, "We are making progress."

Nikki Giovanni said, "It is not about who you attend school with, it is about who controls the school you attend."

Walter L. Hudson Sr./Chairman

National Awareness Alliance

Penns Grove, New Jersey

Young Leadership Equals New Vision: The Time Is Now (Lamont Robinson)

This letter is in support of the courageously leader in Lamont Robinson. The time is now for the city of Salem to get behind a young motivated and passionate trailblazer. On May 29, 2012, it was mentioned in the "Letters to the Editor" section that in the city of Salem there has been a "steady progress of improvements." Well, I guess that depend on who you ask. Many residents that I have spoken with do not believe that the planting of such things like a cherry tree and laying of brick sidewalks, speaks for the progress of Salem. What I like most about my interface with the residents, is that they understand the "truth" from "reality". The truth of the matter is, yes cherry trees have been planted, yes there are sidewalks made of brick and yes a developer rehabilitated an apartment complex. The reality of it all is that the residents feel as though the "cherry trees" do not show the real issues that remain relevant and a constant problem as well as unattended by the same so-called leadership that is running for office now. Standing outside a local business, many residents spoke of issues such as quality education, gun violence, drugs and jobs. One resident said, "The cherry tree do not show the bullet shells that lay on the brick sidewalks, the cherry tree do not show the guns and drugs that the children are selling and carrying in the neighborhoods."

 I concur with the residents of Salem City. It seems as if the residents are fed up with incompetency in the previous leadership. Many believe that the leadership in place now has faltered the people by not dealing with the resident(s) concerns and issues. In my opinion, the cherry trees that have been planted, has created a mirage over some of the people in the community. The cherry trees have covered up the nasty and deep gash wounds that stop the progression and cultivation of the community and the residents who live in Salem. The cherry trees and other tangible fixes, appear to some as a cover up of  the tue issues that is really happening in Salem. In order to give Salem City a true progress in the right direction you have to deal with the essence of the community and that is the "people." No cherry trees will give the people jobs that need to work. No cherry trees will give the young children education. No cherry trees will suppress the crime that is happening on the streets that rob children of a future and compromises the safety and welfare of the people. I believe the Salem residents are tired and want new change.

In my opinion, that cherry tree does not show the passion, bravery, courage and the visionary in Lamont Robinson who is able to initiate action for the people as well as lead them. Lamont Robinson is a proven leader that has defied the odds and here is why; all Lamont life he has been against the "odds." Starting in his early childhood development stages in life, Lamont's absent father (drugs), mother on welfare for a time, poverty conditions in first phases of youth and his mother worked way off welfare to raise three (3) children. As society and statistics would have it, Lamont Robinson should be in prison or dead by way of a life in crime or by way of a troubled upbringing. Heavy church influence in Lamont's life and a grandfather (role model) is a pastor, who kept him on a straight and narrow path.

Lamont was born and raised in Salem City. Attended the Salem City School District and graduated in 2005 with honors. Through hard work and determination Lamont became All-American, All-State, All South Jersey, All Tri-County, All-Area football player. Lamont Robinson served on the team as a three (3) year captain. Striving for greatness does not stop for Lamont. He reached the top 100 football players in the country while in H.S. by Rivals.com. A talented athlete, Lamont excelled in basketball, as well as, Salem High garnering All-Area, and Tri-County honors. National Honors Society member while in H.S. Graduated with a  4.29gpa. Another of his attributes, he served as Freshman Class V.P., Sophomore Class President, Junior Class President & Student Council President. Again, Lamont Robinson is still evolving and proven that he as the skills and talents to be successful, as well as lead by example. Yet Lamont Robinson wanted better.

Through Lamont's accolades, gave him the opportunity to attend the University of Oklahoma on a full Athletic Scholarship.  Lamont help lead his team to three (3) consecutive Big XII Conference Championships, made three (3) BCS bowl game appearances including the 2009 BCS National Championship game against the University of Florida. He also graduated with not one but two (2) B.A. degrees; one in Africa and African American Studies the other in Religious Studies. You show me a mountain and I will show you Lamont Robinson. Now Lamont Robinson has come back to Salem, New Jersey to toss his hat on the referendum for mayor. Lamont Robinson has come up through the streets of Salem, in what Grammy Award singer Marvin Gaye would call, "Trouble Man." Lamont Robinson has a set of tremendous skills equipped with knowledge. That tells me that he has what it takes to lead Salem. Under the leadership of Mayor Davis and council, crime rate has risen over forty percent (40%).  I do not believe the people do not want more cherry trees in the matter.

When I see this young prince, he reminds me of a story in the bible. In the book of Judges after the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked the Lord, "Who will be the first to go up and fight for us against the Canaanites?" The Lord answered, "Judah is to go; I have given the land into his hands." Life experiences have proven for Lamont Robinson that he is able and brave enough to lead. Come June 5, 2012, as the bible says, Salem residents "choose this day whom you want to serve you." The Community Awareness Alliance and I, Walter L. Hudson Sr. Chairman, endorses Lamont Robinson. Blanch Hogate letter to the editor have some inaccuracies and it is clearly evident Blanch Hogate have not been on the rough side of the mountain. Remember in the previous text I said, "If you show me a mountain I will show you Lamont Robinson." Salem residents I say to you in solidarity, if you want to continue to plant cherry trees with failed leadership then continue on. If you want new youth, new vision, and new proven leadership then consider the "mountain" as known as Lamont Robinson.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

― Martin Luther King Jr.

Walter L. Hudson Sr.
Chairman of Community Awareness Alliance
Penns Grove, New Jersey