News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2003


Glenn Cunningham, Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey and Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Newark Division, Alexander J. Gourley

On February 27, 2003, the DEA/Newark Division, Black Affairs Committee presented "A Celebration of African-American History" program for all personnel. The program began with Master of Ceremony Willie C. Gray, Black Affairs coordinator. Shortly after, Assistant Special Agent in Charge Felix T. Demicco sang "God Bless America" then invocation was given by Freddie R. Anderson.

A Proclamation for late SAC Anthony D. Cammarato was presented by one of the honored guests, Mr. Glenn Cunningham, Mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey. S/A Kenneth McKindra delivered a poetry reading followed by a musical selection from the Newark Community School of the Arts Jazz Quartet.

Mayor Cunningham then addressed the division with his own personal testimony on his success being elected by the citizens of Jersey City, New Jersey. Afterwards, the DEA Newark Choir sang several eloquent songs to the division.

photo-William Simpson, Jr., Chief of Operations Management
William Simpson, Jr., Chief of Operations Management

The DEA/Newark Division was honored to have William Simpson, Jr., Chief of Operations Management DEA Headquarters, as an additional Keynote for the program. Mr. Simpson delivered an inspiring speech on his coming through the ranks within DEA.The DEA Newark Choir sang the Black National Anthem and the program closed with Acting Special Agent in Charge, Alexander J. Gourley presenting certificates of appreciation to all the guests and presenting his closing remarks. Freddie R. Anderson delivered the benediction.

The overall program was truly successful with outstanding reviews. The Acting Special Agent in Charge stated " without the hard work and dedication from the DEA/Newark Division, Black Affairs Committee the above program would not have been so successful. " Gourley continued to thank all that contributed to the program. Additionally, for lunch culinary food sampling was served at the division.