Ras in 60 Castos https://soundcloud.com/rasin60 Listen to conversations about Newark's community, economic development, public safety, and more all led by host, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley. On the Ras in 60 podcast Mayor Baraka is joined by guests who are doing the critical work to move Newark forward. Stay informed on Newark Subscribe to the show! Share this podcast with your friends and family Mon, 28 Apr 2025 15:49:00 +0000 en © 2022 US EU CA https://episodes.castos.com/6303b8a7d98b44-97391932/images/IMG-4105.JPG Ras in 60 https://soundcloud.com/rasin60 Listen to conversations about Newark's community, economic development, public safety, and more all led by host, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley. On the Ras in 60 podcast Mayor Baraka is joined by guests who are doing the critical work to move Newark forward. Stay informed on Newark Subscribe to the show! Share this podcast with your friends and family =SPACE episodic Listen to conversations about Newark's community, economic development, public safety, and more all led by host, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley. On the Ras in 60 podcast Mayor Baraka is joined by guests who are doing the critical work to move Newark forward. Stay informed on Newark Subscribe to the show! Share this podcast with your friends and family =SPACE iamequal@equalspace.co false https://feeds.castos.com/z2k6v yes <![CDATA[State of the City Address 2025]]> Mon, 28 Apr 2025 15:49:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/2059336 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/state-of-the-city-address-2025 Listen to Mayor Ras J. Baraka's powerful State of the City Address in this bonus episode of Ras in 60. 

]]> bonus false Listen to Mayor Ras J. Baraka's powerful State of the City Address in this bonus episode of Ras in 60. 

]]> 01:03:40 <![CDATA[Back to the Basics: Discussing Affordable Housing, Newark's Restaurant Week, Invest Newark's Retail Reactivation Plan and Returning for a New School Year]]> Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:55:33 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1848944 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/back-to-the-basics-discussing-affordable-housing-newarks-restaurant-week-retail-reactivation-and-returning-for-a-new-school-year The newest season of Ras in 60 has arrived, sparking excitement and anticipation! We hope your summer was a fantastic mix of fun, relaxation, and endless possibilities!

In this thrilling season premiere of season 5, Hosts Mayor Baraka and Desireé Hadley kick things off with a detailed conversation about affordable housing with, Deputy Mayor/ Director of the Department of Economic and Housing Development, Allison Ladd. This segment is followed up by a discussion with Invest Newark's Chief Business Development Officer and Director of Marketing, Emily Manz who talks about Invest Newark’s initiative of investing dollars into local small businesses through their Retail Reactivation Plan and the three chat it up about Newark’s Restaurant Week. Restaurant week is from October 25th - November 3rd.

But wait, the excitement doesn't stop there! The hosts are later dive into the 2024-5 school year and the 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan with Newark Superintendent Roger Léon and the Director of Newark's Office of Comprehensive Community Education, Dr. Sharnee Brown. The guests discuss how the 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan is being incorporated into Newark schools and across all youth programming and extracurricular activities. The group dives into strategies and tips on what families, educators, and community members can do to ensure our young people reach their fullest potential in the classroom. Watch/Listen now on your favorite streaming platform!

people reach their fullest potential in the classroom. Watch/Listen now on your favorite streaming platform!

Audio Engineer:

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 5 false The newest season of Ras in 60 has arrived, sparking excitement and anticipation! We hope your summer was a fantastic mix of fun, relaxation, and endless possibilities!

In this thrilling season premiere of season 5, Hosts Mayor Baraka and Desireé Hadley kick things off with a detailed conversation about affordable housing with, Deputy Mayor/ Director of the Department of Economic and Housing Development, Allison Ladd. This segment is followed up by a discussion with Invest Newark's Chief Business Development Officer and Director of Marketing, Emily Manz who talks about Invest Newark’s initiative of investing dollars into local small businesses through their Retail Reactivation Plan and the three chat it up about Newark’s Restaurant Week. Restaurant week is from October 25th - November 3rd.

But wait, the excitement doesn't stop there! The hosts are later dive into the 2024-5 school year and the 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan with Newark Superintendent Roger Léon and the Director of Newark's Office of Comprehensive Community Education, Dr. Sharnee Brown. The guests discuss how the 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan is being incorporated into Newark schools and across all youth programming and extracurricular activities. The group dives into strategies and tips on what families, educators, and community members can do to ensure our young people reach their fullest potential in the classroom. Watch/Listen now on your favorite streaming platform!

people reach their fullest potential in the classroom. Watch/Listen now on your favorite streaming platform!

Audio Engineer:

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:31:35 <![CDATA[Community Engagement: Newark Pride & Summer Fun]]> Mon, 24 Jun 2024 13:39:41 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1770816 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/community-engagement-newark-pride-summer-fun  

Summers in Newark are full of free entertainment, activations, and events for the entire family. From Newark's youth to seniors – Newark’s summer lineup promises something for everyone. On this episode of Ras in 60, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley discuss International Pride Month, Newark Pride and the 2024 Summer Fun lineup.

Ras in 60 hosts are joined by the cast of the 2005-2006 Logo Network scripted series Noah’s Ark to discuss their show’s impact and their special appearance in Newark on June 29th. Included in this conversation are the Newark LGBTQ Commissioners, Susu Stewart, Della Walker, and Citi Medina who all discuss the LGBTQ events scheduled to take place during the North 2 Shore Festival, International Pride Month and Newark Pride month.

On the second half of the show Mayor Baraka and co-host, Ms. Hadley are joined by the Director of the Arts and Education District, Victoria Walker; the Director of the Newark City Parks Foundation, Marcy DePina; and the Director of Recreation, Cultural Affairs, and Senior Services, Donnell Redding to discuss the plethora of family fun programming scheduled to take place throughout the summer. From the seniors all white yacht party to the Afro Beats Festival, to community movie nights, the City of Newark will be activated with events sure to further embrace our sense of community while keeping the entire family outside and thoroughly entertained this summer. Listen in now to hear the exciting list of programming scheduled for our Newark community. For a list of Newark Summer Fun programming, visit Summerfuninnewark.com.

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 4 4 false  

Summers in Newark are full of free entertainment, activations, and events for the entire family. From Newark's youth to seniors – Newark’s summer lineup promises something for everyone. On this episode of Ras in 60, Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley discuss International Pride Month, Newark Pride and the 2024 Summer Fun lineup.

Ras in 60 hosts are joined by the cast of the 2005-2006 Logo Network scripted series Noah’s Ark to discuss their show’s impact and their special appearance in Newark on June 29th. Included in this conversation are the Newark LGBTQ Commissioners, Susu Stewart, Della Walker, and Citi Medina who all discuss the LGBTQ events scheduled to take place during the North 2 Shore Festival, International Pride Month and Newark Pride month.

On the second half of the show Mayor Baraka and co-host, Ms. Hadley are joined by the Director of the Arts and Education District, Victoria Walker; the Director of the Newark City Parks Foundation, Marcy DePina; and the Director of Recreation, Cultural Affairs, and Senior Services, Donnell Redding to discuss the plethora of family fun programming scheduled to take place throughout the summer. From the seniors all white yacht party to the Afro Beats Festival, to community movie nights, the City of Newark will be activated with events sure to further embrace our sense of community while keeping the entire family outside and thoroughly entertained this summer. Listen in now to hear the exciting list of programming scheduled for our Newark community. For a list of Newark Summer Fun programming, visit Summerfuninnewark.com.

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:32:43 <![CDATA[Discussing Newark's Re-engagement Center]]> Tue, 21 May 2024 13:19:17 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1746697 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/discussing-newarks-re-engagement-center The Re-engagement Center was officially opened on March 26th. The center enables young people aged 13-24 to reconnect with programs leading to a high school diploma or an equivalent credential and moves them toward employment. Students 21 or over who have aged out of city schools are referred to GED and high school equivalency program options.

The center’s mission is to create diploma pathways with advanced support to empower the community of students and their families to reap positive impacts pre- and post-graduation. The programs are designed to pro-actively minimize the negative effects that come hand in hand with not completing high school.

We will discuss the opening of the Re-engagement Center and what that means for Newark's youth with the Director of Newark Works and the Summer Youth Employment Program Tyreek Rolon and the Superintendent of Newark Public Schools, Roger Leòn.

Later in the show, we’ll be joined by one of the center’s participants, Stephan Young, who will share his personal story about his experience with the Re-Engagement Center. 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 3 4 false The Re-engagement Center was officially opened on March 26th. The center enables young people aged 13-24 to reconnect with programs leading to a high school diploma or an equivalent credential and moves them toward employment. Students 21 or over who have aged out of city schools are referred to GED and high school equivalency program options.

The center’s mission is to create diploma pathways with advanced support to empower the community of students and their families to reap positive impacts pre- and post-graduation. The programs are designed to pro-actively minimize the negative effects that come hand in hand with not completing high school.

We will discuss the opening of the Re-engagement Center and what that means for Newark's youth with the Director of Newark Works and the Summer Youth Employment Program Tyreek Rolon and the Superintendent of Newark Public Schools, Roger Leòn.

Later in the show, we’ll be joined by one of the center’s participants, Stephan Young, who will share his personal story about his experience with the Re-Engagement Center. 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:33:14 <![CDATA[Newark and Proud of It: A Look at the Last Decade of Change]]> Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:38:42 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1691017 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/newark-and-proud-of-it-a-look-at-the-last-decade-of-change Mayor Ras J. Baraka presented his 10th annual State of the City Address on March 12th, in a joyful, impassioned, and triumphant speech to the residents of Newark assembled at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, located at 1 Center Street.

 

In his address, Mayor Baraka reflected on his administration’s achievements of the past decade starting from his “David moment.” Describing himself as “just a kid from Clinton Avenue and 10th Street…Amiri and Amina’s son, an activist, a poet, a teacher with nothing in his hands but a rock and a sling shot,” he proclaimed, “It’s only when we face Goliath that our circumstances begin to change. We can’t miss our David moment out of fear and trepidation.”

 

The mayor went on to delineate a remarkable sequence of improvements and upgrades to Newark living, focusing on the administration’s accomplishments over the past 10 years. Stopping along the way, he commended municipal employees who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and residents who have benefited from city initiatives, he shared a compelling vision for the future.

Listen to this episode now and share with your social circle. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full false Mayor Ras J. Baraka presented his 10th annual State of the City Address on March 12th, in a joyful, impassioned, and triumphant speech to the residents of Newark assembled at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, located at 1 Center Street.

 

In his address, Mayor Baraka reflected on his administration’s achievements of the past decade starting from his “David moment.” Describing himself as “just a kid from Clinton Avenue and 10th Street…Amiri and Amina’s son, an activist, a poet, a teacher with nothing in his hands but a rock and a sling shot,” he proclaimed, “It’s only when we face Goliath that our circumstances begin to change. We can’t miss our David moment out of fear and trepidation.”

 

The mayor went on to delineate a remarkable sequence of improvements and upgrades to Newark living, focusing on the administration’s accomplishments over the past 10 years. Stopping along the way, he commended municipal employees who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and residents who have benefited from city initiatives, he shared a compelling vision for the future.

Listen to this episode now and share with your social circle. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 01:00:44 <![CDATA[The Path Home: Discussing Hope Village II, Resilient Hope and Newark’s Strategic Plan to End Chronic Homelessness]]> Tue, 13 Feb 2024 15:41:02 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1660492 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/the-path-home-discussing-hope-village-ii-resilient-hope-and-newarks-strategic-plan-to-end-chronic-homelessness On the first part of this show hosts Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Desiree Hadley are speaking with the Director of the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services, Luis Ulerio, the President and CEO of Newark Alliance, Evan Weiss, and the Data and Homeless Outreach Team Lead, Izaiah Hayes-Willoughby.

By developing housing for residents without address, Newark is not only tackling the issue of homelessness but it’s employing young people to build these homes by collaborating with the local organization, Youth Build.

Youth Build is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational opportunities for young people ages 16-24 who have experienced challenges with completing high school and simply require a different path to success. Youth Build joins the middle of the show to discuss their phenomenal program and how they’re training and employing our residents in construction and other trades.

The final group of guests include professors and students from the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Hillier School of Architecture and Design. Listen and share this episode with your friends and family. 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 4 false On the first part of this show hosts Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Desiree Hadley are speaking with the Director of the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services, Luis Ulerio, the President and CEO of Newark Alliance, Evan Weiss, and the Data and Homeless Outreach Team Lead, Izaiah Hayes-Willoughby.

By developing housing for residents without address, Newark is not only tackling the issue of homelessness but it’s employing young people to build these homes by collaborating with the local organization, Youth Build.

Youth Build is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational opportunities for young people ages 16-24 who have experienced challenges with completing high school and simply require a different path to success. Youth Build joins the middle of the show to discuss their phenomenal program and how they’re training and employing our residents in construction and other trades.

The final group of guests include professors and students from the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Hillier School of Architecture and Design. Listen and share this episode with your friends and family. 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:57:51 <![CDATA[Newark's Retail Reactivation Plan]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:39:12 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1587884 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/newarks-retail-reactivation-plan “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the cornerstone of our communities.” -Barack Obama

On September 6th, the Baraka administration and Invest Newark launched a program to help businesses and not-for-profit organizations locate, relocate, or expand their operations in Newark’s burgeoning downtown core.
 
The program, known as the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative, aims to support businesses that are looking to bring more retail, cultural, and dining experiences downtown. Populating our downtown space spurs an upward spiral that improves aesthetics, safety, and quality of life in the heart of the city, and turns long vacant storefronts into amenities for Newark residents, workers, and students.
 
The City and Invest Newark will make low- to no-cost financial assistance available to businesses looking to locate in the focus areas. Business operators will be eligible for up to $650,000 in support, depending on the square footage of the storefront.
 
Over the summer Audible launched a grant for startups looking to relocate around Harriet Tubman Square Park. Audible is offering startups a $250,000 relocation grant. This episode features conversations with both the President and Chief Executive Officer of Invest Newark, Marcus Randolph and Audible’s Vice President of Urban Innovation Aisha Glover.
 
Later in the show, the owners Markisha and Carlos Swepson of Harlem, New York restaurant BLVD Bistro, will speak about their plans to open a Newark location of their restaurant in the downtown district in the near future.
 
Also joining this conversation is Anthony Frasier, an awardee of the Audible grant program and the owner of the startup ABF Creative.
 
 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> false “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the cornerstone of our communities.” -Barack Obama

On September 6th, the Baraka administration and Invest Newark launched a program to help businesses and not-for-profit organizations locate, relocate, or expand their operations in Newark’s burgeoning downtown core.
 
The program, known as the Newark Retail Reactivation Initiative, aims to support businesses that are looking to bring more retail, cultural, and dining experiences downtown. Populating our downtown space spurs an upward spiral that improves aesthetics, safety, and quality of life in the heart of the city, and turns long vacant storefronts into amenities for Newark residents, workers, and students.
 
The City and Invest Newark will make low- to no-cost financial assistance available to businesses looking to locate in the focus areas. Business operators will be eligible for up to $650,000 in support, depending on the square footage of the storefront.
 
Over the summer Audible launched a grant for startups looking to relocate around Harriet Tubman Square Park. Audible is offering startups a $250,000 relocation grant. This episode features conversations with both the President and Chief Executive Officer of Invest Newark, Marcus Randolph and Audible’s Vice President of Urban Innovation Aisha Glover.
 
Later in the show, the owners Markisha and Carlos Swepson of Harlem, New York restaurant BLVD Bistro, will speak about their plans to open a Newark location of their restaurant in the downtown district in the near future.
 
Also joining this conversation is Anthony Frasier, an awardee of the Audible grant program and the owner of the startup ABF Creative.
 
 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:42:16 <![CDATA[Discussing the 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan ]]> Tue, 03 Oct 2023 13:42:27 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1567424 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/discussing-the-10-point-youth-literacy-action-plan September is back-to-school month, and, appropriately, National Literacy Month.  On September 8th, the world recognizes International Literacy Day to raise awareness about the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right. Literacy is a fundamental human right.

During the pandemic, young people experienced learning loss at an alarming rate. In 2022, the Newark test results of the NJSLA literacy test showed only 19 percent of third graders passed. In the same year, Newark’s literacy passing rate for all grades was 27 percent. 

To combat these alarmingly low literacy rates, over the summer, the City of Newark unveiled a 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan. The plan outlines 10 actionable steps that schools, parents, and community organizations will undertake during this school year to put Newark’s students back on track.

On this episode Mayor Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley will discuss the action plan with the Brain Trusts’s experts helping to carry out the city's literacy mission. Joining the conversation is Chief Education Officer Dr. Sharnee Brown, Assistant Superintendent of Newark Board of Education Dr. Mary Ann Reilly, Director of Community Engagement of United Way of Greater Newark Karen Leach-Toomer, and the new Director of the Newark Public Library Christian Zabriskie.

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 11 3 false September is back-to-school month, and, appropriately, National Literacy Month.  On September 8th, the world recognizes International Literacy Day to raise awareness about the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right. Literacy is a fundamental human right.

During the pandemic, young people experienced learning loss at an alarming rate. In 2022, the Newark test results of the NJSLA literacy test showed only 19 percent of third graders passed. In the same year, Newark’s literacy passing rate for all grades was 27 percent. 

To combat these alarmingly low literacy rates, over the summer, the City of Newark unveiled a 10-Point Youth Literacy Action Plan. The plan outlines 10 actionable steps that schools, parents, and community organizations will undertake during this school year to put Newark’s students back on track.

On this episode Mayor Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley will discuss the action plan with the Brain Trusts’s experts helping to carry out the city's literacy mission. Joining the conversation is Chief Education Officer Dr. Sharnee Brown, Assistant Superintendent of Newark Board of Education Dr. Mary Ann Reilly, Director of Community Engagement of United Way of Greater Newark Karen Leach-Toomer, and the new Director of the Newark Public Library Christian Zabriskie.

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:36:47 <![CDATA[Newark Celebrates 50 Years of Hip Hop ]]> Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:27:54 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1546611 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/newark-celebrates-the-50th-anniversary-of-hip-hop In this episode of Ras in 60, we celebrate hip-hop’s monumental 50th anniversary and dive into the influential world of the music genre. There is no doubt that the hip-hop culture has impacted the lives of many, spurred national dialog, and raised awareness to injustice. Born in the Bronx, hip-hop quickly crossed the Hudson River to put down roots in New Jersey, where Englewood’s The Sugarhill Gang catapulted the genre into the mainstream music market.

Listen now to an interview with THE SUGARHILL GANG – the pioneers who made history recording the world’s first hip-hop record, Rapper’s Delight.

 Also, on this episode, hear from West Ward Council Member Duprè Kelly, a hip-hop artist who successfully transitioned from the music industry into a career in public service.

This Labor Day weekend, Newark is hosting its annual 24 Hrs of Peace event, which uses the hip-hop culture as a vehicle to positively engage the community and promote peace. Mayor Baraka founded the 24 Hours of Peace event 11 years ago when he was a Council Member for the South Ward and made it a citywide event when he became mayor.

24 Hrs of Peace Co-Founder Hakim Green also joins the show along with Council Member Kelly. The two will discuss using hip-hop culture to evoke change, transitioning careers as hip-hop artists, the 24 Hours of Peace event, and much more.

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> false In this episode of Ras in 60, we celebrate hip-hop’s monumental 50th anniversary and dive into the influential world of the music genre. There is no doubt that the hip-hop culture has impacted the lives of many, spurred national dialog, and raised awareness to injustice. Born in the Bronx, hip-hop quickly crossed the Hudson River to put down roots in New Jersey, where Englewood’s The Sugarhill Gang catapulted the genre into the mainstream music market.

Listen now to an interview with THE SUGARHILL GANG – the pioneers who made history recording the world’s first hip-hop record, Rapper’s Delight.

 Also, on this episode, hear from West Ward Council Member Duprè Kelly, a hip-hop artist who successfully transitioned from the music industry into a career in public service.

This Labor Day weekend, Newark is hosting its annual 24 Hrs of Peace event, which uses the hip-hop culture as a vehicle to positively engage the community and promote peace. Mayor Baraka founded the 24 Hours of Peace event 11 years ago when he was a Council Member for the South Ward and made it a citywide event when he became mayor.

24 Hrs of Peace Co-Founder Hakim Green also joins the show along with Council Member Kelly. The two will discuss using hip-hop culture to evoke change, transitioning careers as hip-hop artists, the 24 Hours of Peace event, and much more.

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:46:16 <![CDATA[Making Homeownership Accessible for all Newark Residents ]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 19:56:51 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1512271 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/making-home-ownership-accessible-for-all-newark-residents Only one in four residents own a home in Newark, and with corporations vying to purchase houses and turn them into high cost rentals, it is urgent to provide residents with affordable pathways to homeownership.

The homeownership revitalization program, which many know as the $1 properties program, is specifically for residents of Newark. It enables the low cost sale of city properties to residents who have lived in Newark for five years or more or have been displaced by gentrification.

NACA is the program administrator and also provides low cost mortgages. To discuss this topic and other homeownership options offered by the City of Newark, this episode features conversations with Marcus Randolph, President and CEO of Invest Newark along with Bruce Marks, CEO and Founder of NACA, and Jerrah Crowder the Assistant Director of Newark's Department of Economic and Housing Development department.

Later in the show we dive into a conversation with two Newark residents and homeowners who have benefitted from the homeowenrship options available to Newark residents, and from the NACA mortgage program. Ms. Patricia Hobbs and Ms. Tricia Lubrano will discuss their journey of becoming homeowners and the NACA mortgage process. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

 

]]> false Only one in four residents own a home in Newark, and with corporations vying to purchase houses and turn them into high cost rentals, it is urgent to provide residents with affordable pathways to homeownership.

The homeownership revitalization program, which many know as the $1 properties program, is specifically for residents of Newark. It enables the low cost sale of city properties to residents who have lived in Newark for five years or more or have been displaced by gentrification.

NACA is the program administrator and also provides low cost mortgages. To discuss this topic and other homeownership options offered by the City of Newark, this episode features conversations with Marcus Randolph, President and CEO of Invest Newark along with Bruce Marks, CEO and Founder of NACA, and Jerrah Crowder the Assistant Director of Newark's Department of Economic and Housing Development department.

Later in the show we dive into a conversation with two Newark residents and homeowners who have benefitted from the homeowenrship options available to Newark residents, and from the NACA mortgage program. Ms. Patricia Hobbs and Ms. Tricia Lubrano will discuss their journey of becoming homeowners and the NACA mortgage process. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

 

]]> 00:48:02 <![CDATA[The Strategic Plan for the Newark Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery ]]> Tue, 02 May 2023 18:08:04 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1471101 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/the-strategic-plan-for-the-newark-office-of-violence-prevention-and-trauma-recovery In 2020 the Baraka administration created the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, the first of its kind in the City of Newark. While the rest of the country shouted 'Defund the Police', the City of Newark reallocated funds from the NPD budget to establish the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. 

Lakeesha Eure, the Director of the OVPTR, explains her strategic plan  while providing an in debt look into her team's efforts and collaborative approach to decrease violence in conjunction with the Newark Public Safety Department.

Later in the episode Mayor Baraka and Co-host Desiree Hadley, speak with Sonia Rogers, founder of the non-profit organization 'Through Their Voices' and Al-Tariq Best, the CEO/Founder of the H.U.B.B. Arts and Trauma Center. Ms. Rogers describes her personal experience with gun violence Mr. Best touches on his non-profit's active collaboration with the OVPTR.

]]> false In 2020 the Baraka administration created the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, the first of its kind in the City of Newark. While the rest of the country shouted 'Defund the Police', the City of Newark reallocated funds from the NPD budget to establish the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. 

Lakeesha Eure, the Director of the OVPTR, explains her strategic plan  while providing an in debt look into her team's efforts and collaborative approach to decrease violence in conjunction with the Newark Public Safety Department.

Later in the episode Mayor Baraka and Co-host Desiree Hadley, speak with Sonia Rogers, founder of the non-profit organization 'Through Their Voices' and Al-Tariq Best, the CEO/Founder of the H.U.B.B. Arts and Trauma Center. Ms. Rogers describes her personal experience with gun violence Mr. Best touches on his non-profit's active collaboration with the OVPTR.

]]> 00:43:50 <![CDATA[Newark Leading and Proud of It!]]> Thu, 20 Apr 2023 20:28:54 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1462236 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/newark-leading-the-way-and-proud-of-it Newark is leading the way and is proud of it! Listen to Mayor Baraka as he delivers his ninth State of the City address.

Before an audience of residents, stakeholders, elected officials, and media representatives, Mayor Baraka described the life-changing initiatives his administration has put in place over the past nine years. 

Mayor Baraka's address was intertwined with powerful testimonials from Newark residents who have been directly impacted by the works of his administration. 

Subscribe! 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> bonus false Newark is leading the way and is proud of it! Listen to Mayor Baraka as he delivers his ninth State of the City address.

Before an audience of residents, stakeholders, elected officials, and media representatives, Mayor Baraka described the life-changing initiatives his administration has put in place over the past nine years. 

Mayor Baraka's address was intertwined with powerful testimonials from Newark residents who have been directly impacted by the works of his administration. 

Subscribe! 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 01:12:44 <![CDATA['Shadows of a Face' Discussing Newark's Harriet Tubman Monument]]> Tue, 14 Mar 2023 14:56:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1435387 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/shadows-of-a-face-discussing-newarks-harriet-tubman-monument Harriet Tubman is known to many of us as one of the most courageous women in American history. As a conductor on the underground railroad Harriet returned to the south approximately 13 times to lead enslaved people to the freedom. 

On March 9, 2023 the Harriet Tubman monument titled "Shadows of a Face" was unveiled in Harriet Tubman Square Park downtown Newark. This interactive monument is replacing the Christopher Columbus statue that was removed in 2020.

"Shadows of a Face" is dedicated to the life and legacy of one of America's greatest abolitionists, Harriet Tubman. The monument is includes an audio component that was produced by the audiobook and podcast company, Audible and the audio was narrated by Queen Latifah. Members of the community contributed to the monument by creating personalized tiles that were added to the project's mosaic wall. 

The Harriet Tubman Monument project was led by the City of Newark's Arts and Cultural Affairs Director fayemi shakur and funded by the City of Newark, Audible, the Mellon Foundation and individual residents in collaboration with the Newark City Parks Foundation, Newark Arts, the Newark Museum of Art and the Newark Public Library. 

Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host/ producer Desiree Hadley discuss the monument in detail with the Artist/ Architect Nina Cooke John, Director shakur and the Founder of Audible Don Katz.

 

Listen to this episode and share with your social circle. 

 

Engineered/Produced By: Carter 'Roc' Mangan Jr. 

 

]]> full 6 3 false Harriet Tubman is known to many of us as one of the most courageous women in American history. As a conductor on the underground railroad Harriet returned to the south approximately 13 times to lead enslaved people to the freedom. 

On March 9, 2023 the Harriet Tubman monument titled "Shadows of a Face" was unveiled in Harriet Tubman Square Park downtown Newark. This interactive monument is replacing the Christopher Columbus statue that was removed in 2020.

"Shadows of a Face" is dedicated to the life and legacy of one of America's greatest abolitionists, Harriet Tubman. The monument is includes an audio component that was produced by the audiobook and podcast company, Audible and the audio was narrated by Queen Latifah. Members of the community contributed to the monument by creating personalized tiles that were added to the project's mosaic wall. 

The Harriet Tubman Monument project was led by the City of Newark's Arts and Cultural Affairs Director fayemi shakur and funded by the City of Newark, Audible, the Mellon Foundation and individual residents in collaboration with the Newark City Parks Foundation, Newark Arts, the Newark Museum of Art and the Newark Public Library. 

Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host/ producer Desiree Hadley discuss the monument in detail with the Artist/ Architect Nina Cooke John, Director shakur and the Founder of Audible Don Katz.

 

Listen to this episode and share with your social circle. 

 

Engineered/Produced By: Carter 'Roc' Mangan Jr. 

 

]]> 00:35:58 <![CDATA[Free or Low Cost Broadband for all Newarkers]]> Tue, 07 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1403609 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/free-or-low-cost-broadband-for-all-newarkers Access to a reliable internet connection is essential for us to function in our daily lives. From remote learning to telework, our children, families and workforce will fall behind if we do not have quality and reliable internet access. 

On this episode of Ras in 60 we explore the steps Invest Newark is taking to equip our community with the infrastructure to access low cost or free broadband. Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley are joined by Invest Newark's CEO and President, Marcus Randolph and Chief Economy Officer and Director of Broadband, Aaron Meyerson.

Ammon, Idaho created their own municipal broadband infrastructure in 2011, and made national headlines with their innovative approach to providing internet access to their residents. On the second half of the show we will expand our conversation by speaking with the former Director of IT for the City of Ammon, Idaho and the current Operations Director of Entry Point, Bruce Patterson. Mr. Patterson played a critical role in making municipal broadband a reality for the City of Ammon.

Share this episode with your friends and family. 

Subscribe!

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 5 3 false Access to a reliable internet connection is essential for us to function in our daily lives. From remote learning to telework, our children, families and workforce will fall behind if we do not have quality and reliable internet access. 

On this episode of Ras in 60 we explore the steps Invest Newark is taking to equip our community with the infrastructure to access low cost or free broadband. Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley are joined by Invest Newark's CEO and President, Marcus Randolph and Chief Economy Officer and Director of Broadband, Aaron Meyerson.

Ammon, Idaho created their own municipal broadband infrastructure in 2011, and made national headlines with their innovative approach to providing internet access to their residents. On the second half of the show we will expand our conversation by speaking with the former Director of IT for the City of Ammon, Idaho and the current Operations Director of Entry Point, Bruce Patterson. Mr. Patterson played a critical role in making municipal broadband a reality for the City of Ammon.

Share this episode with your friends and family. 

Subscribe!

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:40:27 <![CDATA[Evaluating and Executing Plans to End Chronic Homelessness, Coast to Coast]]> Tue, 27 Dec 2022 13:44:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1362020 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/ras-in-60-ep4-s3-evaluating-and-executing-plans-to-end-chronic-homelessness-coast-to-coast Chronic homelessness is an issue that affects communities in America on both coasts. Last week, The Mayor's Office of Homeless Services released "Newark's Strategic Plan to End Chronic Homelessness" within 3 years. On this episode we breakdown the comprehensive plan with the City's Homelessness Czar Luis Ulerio, and Jim Pelliccio, Chair of the City of Newark Commission on Homelessness. 

We then expand the conversation to include Ken Craft, CEO of Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission located in southern California. His company's mission is to prevent, reduce and eliminate poverty, hunger and homelessness.

In 2021 his company, helped with the mission of the development of 6 tiny home villages in Los Angeles County, CA. These 6 villages provided over 900 beds. This was in addition to the 506 beds, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission helped to previously develop in southern California.

Listen in as we explore Newark's strategic plan and as we learn about the actions taking place by Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission to decrease southern California's homeless population. 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 4 3 false Chronic homelessness is an issue that affects communities in America on both coasts. Last week, The Mayor's Office of Homeless Services released "Newark's Strategic Plan to End Chronic Homelessness" within 3 years. On this episode we breakdown the comprehensive plan with the City's Homelessness Czar Luis Ulerio, and Jim Pelliccio, Chair of the City of Newark Commission on Homelessness. 

We then expand the conversation to include Ken Craft, CEO of Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission located in southern California. His company's mission is to prevent, reduce and eliminate poverty, hunger and homelessness.

In 2021 his company, helped with the mission of the development of 6 tiny home villages in Los Angeles County, CA. These 6 villages provided over 900 beds. This was in addition to the 506 beds, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission helped to previously develop in southern California.

Listen in as we explore Newark's strategic plan and as we learn about the actions taking place by Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission to decrease southern California's homeless population. 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:43:38 <![CDATA[The Newark Movement for Economic Equity]]> Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:30:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1309694 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/ras-in-60-ep3-s3-the-newark-movement-for-economic-equity Economic equity is critical to urban communities like Newark, NJ. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median annual household income in the City of Newark is about $37k. 

Our first guest is Mayor Michael Tubbs. Mr. Tubbs is currently the Special Advisor for Economic Mobility and Opportunity to California Governor Gavin Newsom, and the former Mayor of Stockton, California. Mr. Tubbs joins virtually to explain the guaranteed income program he started in Stockton, CA. 

Keeping on topic we are then joined by the City of Newark's Philanthropic Liaison Kevin Callaghan. This episode concludes with a brief conversation with one of Newark's guaranteed income recipients, Shamonique Jones, who shares her experience. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 3 3 false Economic equity is critical to urban communities like Newark, NJ. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median annual household income in the City of Newark is about $37k. 

Our first guest is Mayor Michael Tubbs. Mr. Tubbs is currently the Special Advisor for Economic Mobility and Opportunity to California Governor Gavin Newsom, and the former Mayor of Stockton, California. Mr. Tubbs joins virtually to explain the guaranteed income program he started in Stockton, CA. 

Keeping on topic we are then joined by the City of Newark's Philanthropic Liaison Kevin Callaghan. This episode concludes with a brief conversation with one of Newark's guaranteed income recipients, Shamonique Jones, who shares her experience. 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:40:30 <![CDATA[A Safer Newark – Newark Forward, Minus Violence Equals Our Future]]> Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:02:00 +0000 =SPACE https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/44082/episode/1287903 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/a-safer-newark-newark-forward-minus-violence-equals-our-future Keeping Newark Safe is a high priority. Newark has a holistic approach to reducing violence, healing and supporting the community. This episode is all about exploring Newark's innovative approach to public saftey, which includes a collaborative effort and approach between the police and the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. 

Guests featured on this episode include Director of Public Safety, Fritz Frage`and Police Chief Emanuel "Manny" Miranda, along with Director of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, LaKeesha Eure. 

Subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with your social circle. 

#Rasin60 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 2 3 false Keeping Newark Safe is a high priority. Newark has a holistic approach to reducing violence, healing and supporting the community. This episode is all about exploring Newark's innovative approach to public saftey, which includes a collaborative effort and approach between the police and the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. 

Guests featured on this episode include Director of Public Safety, Fritz Frage`and Police Chief Emanuel "Manny" Miranda, along with Director of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, LaKeesha Eure. 

Subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with your social circle. 

#Rasin60 

 

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:46:32 <![CDATA[Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and the Return of the School Year]]> Tue, 06 Sep 2022 16:48:00 +0000 =SPACE https://ras-in-60.castos.com/podcasts/44082/episodes/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-and-the-return-of-the-school-year https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-and-the-return-of-the-school-year On the first episode of season 3 of Ras in 60, marks the start of the new school year for Newark Public School students. Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley are speaking with Superintendent Roger León about the new school year, health and safety precautions, the addition of new public schools, the focus for the new academic year and much more!

On the second half of the show we transition into our conversation with Deputy Mayor of Community Engagement, Jacqueline Quiles. Ms. Quiles shares details of the City's Hispanic Heritage events scheduled to take place during the month of September/October in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Listen in now!

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

Share this link with your social circle, and subscribe!

]]> full 1 3 false On the first episode of season 3 of Ras in 60, marks the start of the new school year for Newark Public School students. Mayor Ras J. Baraka and co-host Desiree Hadley are speaking with Superintendent Roger León about the new school year, health and safety precautions, the addition of new public schools, the focus for the new academic year and much more!

On the second half of the show we transition into our conversation with Deputy Mayor of Community Engagement, Jacqueline Quiles. Ms. Quiles shares details of the City's Hispanic Heritage events scheduled to take place during the month of September/October in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Listen in now!

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

Share this link with your social circle, and subscribe!

]]> 00:28:43 <![CDATA[Back Together Again]]> Tue, 01 Jun 2021 20:30:00 +0000 =SPACE https://ras-in-60.castos.com/podcasts/44082/episodes/back-together-again-1 https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/back-together-again-1 We are finally 'Back Together Again' for a great second season of Ras in 60. This episode is all about us coming together as a community. Mayor Ras J. Baraka is joined by his special guest host baby Jua and co-host/producer Desiree Hadley.

The three discuss Newak's plethora of summer programming, camps, activities for adults, seniors and kids, and much more. Featured guests on this episode include Director of Recreation and Senior Services Patrick Council and Dj Lil'Man. 

Share this episode with your friends and family.

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> full 1 2 false We are finally 'Back Together Again' for a great second season of Ras in 60. This episode is all about us coming together as a community. Mayor Ras J. Baraka is joined by his special guest host baby Jua and co-host/producer Desiree Hadley.

The three discuss Newak's plethora of summer programming, camps, activities for adults, seniors and kids, and much more. Featured guests on this episode include Director of Recreation and Senior Services Patrick Council and Dj Lil'Man. 

Share this episode with your friends and family.

 

Audio Engineer: 

Carter "Roc" Mangan Jr.

www.TheRocProductions.com

]]> 00:49:51 <![CDATA[Meet The Mayor]]> Mon, 01 Apr 2019 18:50:00 +0000 =SPACE https://ras-in-60.castos.com/podcasts/44082/episodes/meet-the-mayor https://ras-in-60.castos.com/episodes/meet-the-mayor In this inroductory episode of Ras in 60 you will meet the Mayor!

Learn about Mayor Ras J. Baraka's fitness routine, his favorite music artists, his take on the VMAs coming to Newark, the Forbes Opportunity Zone Summit and much more.

]]> full 1 1 false In this inroductory episode of Ras in 60 you will meet the Mayor!

Learn about Mayor Ras J. Baraka's fitness routine, his favorite music artists, his take on the VMAs coming to Newark, the Forbes Opportunity Zone Summit and much more.

]]> 00:23:30