While we often hear of late breaking stories on the local news and media channels, we want to post late breaking news and accomplishments of the people who make up the communities (our villages) who are not always afforded the opportunity to be recognized.

On August 15 we will launch the new forum hosted by Jacob's Rite of Passage entitled, "The Village Spotlight." In keeping with the theme of "It STILL takes a village to raise a child. It's time to reclaim the village," we have decided to spotlight some of the people in our community, with a focus on our young people.

If you want to recommend a Village Spotlight, please go to our submissions page and submit your story. After editorial review we will contact you with the date it will be published to our blog.

Instructions. Please submit the following:

• • • A written piece, 500 words or less, to include
      • the name, age and relevant information about the nominee
      • why you are nominating them as the village spotlight.
    • A photo.

The distribution of your written piece, if approved, will be included on the website, in our monthly newsletter, and on our facebook page. Your email address is required so we can notify you.

Let's make a difference! Be a part of reclaiming our village. Nominate a village spotlight! 

Jersey Journal: Our Pride and Joy

JC teen is Harvard bound for the summer

By Barbara Milton, Ph.D., LCSW
May 02, 2013, 6:00AM

Brittany Thomas, 16 year old sophomore at McNair Academic High School is headed to Harvard for college science courses this summer. She is taking steps towards becoming a biomedical engineer, inspired by a story in a magazine about an African American female who is a stem cell researcher. In that moment Brittany knew that with hard work and dedication...