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This year’s HARLEM WEEK theme is “Celebrate Our Magic” as a testament to Harlem’s history, perseverance, and cultural contributions.
Senior Citizen’s Day at the Adam Clayton Powell, jr. State Building on 125th Street, opened the way for the exciting 2025 events on schedule for the 51st Annual HARLEM WEEK.
The day’s theme “Saluting & Honoring the Legacy of Our Seniors” is designed to celebrate and uplift elders who have paved the way. Two sessions at 9:00 am and 1:00 pm were attended by those who came on purpose to be a part of the fun and information.
A warm welcome began the sessions by HARLEM WEEK founding member, Stephanie Francis. Dennis Dillon, Pastor of Brooklyn’s Rise Church, and founder of the New York Christian Times newspaper provided a powerful opening prayer.
Under the gracious guidance of Winston Majette, Executive Director of The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and Tina McRae, the program proceeded with introductions of speakers and elected officials who provided insight into programs that are available through their offices.
Those in attendance included NY State Attorney General, Letitia James, NYC Fire Department Asst. Deputy Commissioner, James H. Harding, Jr., NYC Councilmember Yusef Salaam, NY State Senator Cordell Cleare, NY State Assemblymember Jordan Wright, and Courtney Bennett, Director of the Harlem office of NY County District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
An in-depth presentation on Cyber Security by a representative of Chase Bank was an eye-opener on how easy it is for elders to fall into the pit of scams and the rapidly rising dilemma of theft of financial information.
Along with other helpful hints of help for elders, Clayton Banks, President of “Demystifying Technology” offered his services for personal assistance with conquering the fears of utilizing technology.
A Virtual Hat Show presentation showed the unique high styling and profiling of Harlem’s longtime milliners, including the offerings of Princess Jenkins of The Brownstone, Marc Williamson, Owner of Harlem’s Flame Keepers Hat Club, and upscale designer hats by Evetta Petty of Harlem’s Heaven Hats.
Tables lined the room with information from Northwell Hospital, Senior Resource Guides from the Offices of Manhattan Borough President, Mark Levine, and State Senator Cordell Cleare, Vision Zero-Building a Safer City, Arts and Minds-Connecting art & well-being for memory loss, Black Health Matters and areas for onsite blood pressure screening and health advisories.
Members of the New York Road Runners presented stretch exercises that had the seniors on their feet following along to the beat of wellness activity.
Kudos to those volunteers from the Greater Harlem Chamber and HARLEM WEEK for their conscientious concern and hospitality throughout the Senior Day. RefreshmentsYwere provided as a Grab and Go lunch box from Melba’s Restaurant, Manna’s Soul Food and Ma Smith’s Dessert Café.
Now it is onward and upward toward another month of collective gatherings, wholesome fun and good food for all. The world will be watching as the Harlem community honors its history and culture, culminating on Harlem Day, Sunday, August 17th.
Be there to support Harlem’s vendors and small businesses as they bring their best to the streets. For more information visit HARLEMWEEK.com website.
