on IT’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY
From November 1, 2000 to November 1, 2020, “Local Talk Newspaper” has now made history over 20 years. Starting out as a monthly publication to help the community, it switched to a weekly format on February 22, 2002. Since then, Local Talk has become a household name.
On or about November 1, 2019 we talked about how to make our 20th anniversary a special occasion. We thought about having a dinner event, selling some tickets to raise some funds, something that we certainly need. Then, the coronavirus changed life as we know it. Things like masks and social distancing became a part of everyday living.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we decided not to have any dinner or other risky event. Instead, we decided to celebrate our mission to serve the community by selecting and recognizing people who are exemplary and shining examples of that very mission. The key to the selection of the awardees was a true connection with the community, along with their. dedication and work.
After a lengthy process, we have selected five persons in our opinion who best suit the criterion for the award.
In no particular order, here now are our awardees, all equal and deserving.
· Darrell K. Terry, Sr. President and CEO of Newark Beth Israel Hospital and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.
Under his leadership, Newark Beth Israel Hospital was awarded as one of the best hospitals – not just locally but in the nation – two years in a row. Also, he oversaw the recent groundbreaking of a $100 million expansion plan of the hospital, which the community deserves and is truly needed to serve them even better.
· Charles N. Hall, Jr. President of the African American Heritage Parade Organization.
He successfully resurrected and organized the African American Heritage Parade. Although the parade was not held in 2020 due to the coronavirus, that did not stop his community service. He successfully distributed hundreds of groceries in free giveaways to the needy, as well as medical services to the community. He is also President of the Local 108 RWDSU Union.
· Dr. Gitendra Rajiyah, President of The Heart Center of The Oranges.
In this pandemic, nothing is more sorely needed than healthcare, and Dr. “Raj” maintains 7 clinics in our community. Despite the conditions, the clinics have not closed during the worst times of COVID-19, and serve the community every weekday, including Saturdays. Doctors and Nurses should definitely be recognized at the same time for their dedication of work without fear. Even in better times, Dr. Raj has made many innovations to the field of community healthcare.
· New Jersey Assemblyman Thomas Giblin.
He has served the community tirelessly, attending most of the community events, and not just showing up during “election time.” Assemblyman Giblin has worked with the community as an Assemblyman since 2006. He has also worked as a New Jersey State Democratic Party Chairman, and is an officer of the Local 68 Union.
A fifth person has also been selected as one of our awardees. However, due to the pandemic, this has been delayed. Nonetheless, we plan to reveal this worthy selection in the future.
