Biography
In the beginning...
Once upon a Thanksgiving Day, Morton Curtis Van Allen and his loving wife, Sarah Cecilia Scott, conceived a baby boy whose heritage was a rich blend of 50% African, 40% European, and 10% Native American ancestry, as confirmed by Ancestry.com and 23andMe in 2016. On Sunday, August 3, 1953, at precisely 1:43 a.m., Michael Anthony Van Allen was born on the island of Manhattan at New York-Presbyterian Hospital / Columbia University Medical Center.
Manhattan, Harlem was the epicenter of Black culture, with vibrant jazz clubs such as the Savoy Ballroom where legends such as Benny Goodman, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie performed. It was also where Michael's maternal grandfather, Cecil X Scott was an American jazz clarinetist, tenor saxophonist, and bandleader. Scott played as a teenager with his brother, drummer Lloyd Scott. They played together as co-leaders holding residencies in Ohio, Pittsburgh, and in New York City at the Savoy Ballroom.
Mike has no memory of learning how to swim. However, repeated family conversations at the dinner table inform him that his dad taught him to swim at Coney Island’s Manhattan beach before he ever attended school. Michael became a competitive swimmer, channeling his energy into the sport while growing up in the dynamic cultural tapestry of 1950s New York. His formative years unfolded in the heart of Harlem during the civil rights era, where he lived in the Abraham Lincoln high-rise public housing projects located at 1980 Park Avenue, Apartment 5F, between Amsterdam and Lenox Avenues. His mother, Sarah, known for her beauty, warmth, and protective nature, was deeply respected in the community and was honored as the "1953 Lincoln Houses Mother of the Year."
Michael's mother, Sarah, was deeply committed to addressing the social and economic disparities afflicting the United States. She dedicated much of her life to serving her community as a parent coordinator for the federally funded Head Start Program, an anti-poverty initiative designed to support early childhood education in low-income communities. Later, Sarah took on a significant role within the federal welfare system, assisting those facing financial hardships. Her work touched many lives as she helped individuals navigate various welfare programs, including Medicaid, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, and Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC). As a welfare caseworker, she ensured that low-income families received food stamps, among other essential resources.
Michael's maternal grandparents, Cecil X. Scott and Nina Evans-Stewart, both born in November 1905, built a large and loving family. They resided at 440 West 164th Street in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, nestled between Edgecombe and Amsterdam Avenues. Over the years, Cecil and Nina became the proud grandparents of 47 grandchildren, further extending their legacy through their children and grandchildren. Here is a look at the siblings of Michael’s mother, Sarah, along with their respective spouses and children:
1. Sarah & Sonny Van Allen - 7 children
2. Betty & Howard Johnson - 6 children
3. Connie & Joe Besson - 3 children
4. Norma Jean & Clarence (Pinky) Gregory - 3 children
(Pinky was a percussionist known for his light skin tone, which earned him his nickname.)
5. Loraine & Dicky Davenport - 5 children
6. Carol & Red Coleman - 3 children
7. Elaine & Artie Drakeford - 3 children
8. Cecil Scott, Jr. & Dorothy - 1 child
9. Ronald Scott & Janice - 2 children
- (Ronald notably dated actress Leslie Uggams.)
10. Barbara & Bobby Smalls - 5 children
11. Annette & Fred Pihl - 5 children
- (Fred was of Scandinavian ancestry.)
12. Richard Scott & Betty - 3 children
13. Darryl Scott & Christine - 1 child
Religion played an important role in Michael’s family, with most of them adhering to the Christian faith, including his grandmother Nina and many of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. However, there were notable exceptions. Michael's father, Morton, along with both his grandfathers Morton and Cecil, his uncle Pinky, and Michael himself, were atheists, standing apart from the largely Christian family dynamic.
Michael's paternal grandparents, Morton C. Van Allen, Sr., and Ella Lowery-Johnson, were both born in 1899. Morton, an atheist by belief, worked as a chauffeur, while his Catholic wife Ella was a talented seamstress. They lived at 400 East 165th Street in the Bronx, New York, and had two sons: Morton, born in 1922, and Melvin, born in 1930.
Michael's father, known as Junior or "Sonny," was a man of immense character, intellect, and resilience. He was a trail blazer, paving the way for future leaders like General Colin Powell, who also hailed from the Bronx. Sonny grew up during the Great Depression, which began with the 1929 Wall Street Crash and witnessed the harsh realities of poverty and racial inequality firsthand. Despite these challenges, he excelled academically, graduating as the Salutatorian from Morris High School in the South Bronx. At seventeen, he voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army, much like Colin Powell, who would later follow a similar path as an ROTC cadet and graduate of the same high school. Sonny served honorably in World War II, rising to the rank of sergeant in a racially segregated military.
Michael’s dad was sent overseas and fought in a racially segregated military. Despite fighting for democracy abroad, Sonny returned home to find that the civil rights of Black Americans were still disregarded. Black soldiers, who had expected their country to change its policies after their sacrifices, were met with brutal realities. Many veterans faced violence and discrimination. Like many Black WWII veterans, like Michael’s dad, was denied their GI Bill benefits, including college tuition and mortgage guarantees for homes.
One tragic case involved Isaac Woodard, a soldier who had his eyes gouged out while still in uniform, simply for asking to use the restroom on a bus in South Carolina. In Monroe, Georgia, two Black veterans were murdered by the KKK while walking with their wives in uniform, and a young man named Mapes was killed for attempting to vote. Stories of racial violence and injustice, like that of Rosalee Ingram, whose sons killed a white man for molesting her and were sentenced to the chain gang, were far too familiar. Many of these atrocities fueled the urgency for the Civil Rights Movement.
Sonny was not only a veteran but also a participant in the fight for civil rights. He was deeply affected by the oppressive climate of McCarthyism, which targeted those who sought justice, equality, and freedom. Figures like Ossie and Ruby Dee Davis, Paul Robeson, and the Rosenbergs were among those persecuted. These injustices helped ignite the activist spirit in America, culminating in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Sonny participated in the historic March on Washington, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, inspiring the nation and renewing the call for equality.
Career wise, Michael’s father worked as a letter carrier delivered the mail out of the NY Times Square Post Office for 30 years - one of the better-paying civil service jobs available to African Americans at that time.
“A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower, Inaugural Address, January 20, 1953
Indeed, 1953 was an incredibly productive year, not only for Michael’s family but for the nation at large. It saw many significant moments that shaped the civil rights landscape and the broader history of the United States.
The year 1953 witnessed several significant inventions, legal cases, and events that had a profound impact on history. Here are some of the most notable: The Korean War ended, and the U.S. Supreme Court took a historic case against racially segregated schools in the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision. While the Brown v. Board of Education case was decided in 1954, the buildup to this landmark decision started in 1953. Several cases were consolidated under this title, challenging the "separate but equal" doctrine established in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund argued that segregation in public schools was inherently unequal, setting the stage for the pivotal ruling that would come the next year. In the world of science, perhaps the most groundbreaking scientific discovery of 1953 was the identification of the structure of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick. They revealed that DNA is structured as a double helix, which laid the foundation for modern genetics and molecular biology. The development of the transistor radio by Texas Instruments revolutionized portable entertainment. While transistors were invented earlier, the Regency TR-1, the first commercially sold transistor radio, was a key step in making electronics smaller and more accessible to the public. And Jonas Salk developed the polio vaccine. Medical advances continued with the first successful open-heart surgery. Dr. John Gibbon performed the first successful open-heart surgery using a heart-lung machine. This invention allowed surgeons to stop the heart and operate on it without causing damage to the brain or other organs due to a lack of oxygen. While Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
Culturally, James Baldwin made waves with the publication of his powerful novel Go Tell It on the Mountain. McDonald’s opened its first restaurant, marking the beginning of a fast-food revolution. Playboy magazine made its debut, featuring a nude Marilyn Monroe on the cover. In the world of theater, the musical Porgy and Bess was revived and toured many European cities.
The music scene was vibrant in 1953, especially in jazz. Iconic albums like Jazz at Massey Hall by Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, Piano Reflections by Duke Ellington, Blue Period and Young Man with a Horn by Miles Davis, Thelonious by Thelonious Monk, and The New Oscar Pettiford Sextet by Oscar Pettiford were all released. Additionally, Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn composed the jazz standard “Satin Doll” with lyrics by Johnny Mercer. The classic Rocket ticket “88” by Jackie Brenston -an African American- and his Delta Cats has often been cited as the first rock 'n' roll record. Meanwhile,
Sister Rosetta Tharpe, often called the "Godmother of Rock and Roll," was a trailblazer who influenced future rock legends like Chuck Berry and Little Richard.
Rock and roll began to make its mark on the music charts, with Ruth Brown topping the charts with her hit “Mama, He Treats Your Daughter Mean,” helping pave the way for the genre’s dominance in later years.
Shortly after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, Michael's family moved from the bustling streets of New York City to the quieter suburbs of New Jersey, leaving behind the Empire State for the neighboring Garden State. This move made a significant change for Michael, as he had to sever ties with his beloved Boys' Cubs Pack, just one year short of advancing to the Boy Scouts in Harlem's Troop #540. At ten years old and in the fifth grade, Michael continued reading Boy's Life magazine, finding comfort in its familiar stories while navigating the newness of his life in New Jersey.
One of the most intriguing parts of this new chapter was Michael's budding relationship with a girl named Betty Waters, a classmate who conveniently lived next door. Their connection was innocent and sweet; they would play outside together until they grew tired, at which point Michael would rush home and call Betty on the phone. Each time, the conversation followed the same script: Michael would ask, “Would you go with me?” and Betty would respond with a simple “OK.” They would then both quickly say goodbye" and hang up, as if the mere question and response were the full extent of their relationship. The cycle would repeat on Saturday afternoons, with Betty sometimes exercising her feminine prerogative to abruptly end things, with no apparent reason, by declaring, “I quit you!” Yet, their cordial relationship would inevitably resume with Michael’s optimistic next phone call.
There were no hugs, kisses, or even handshakes for all their playful interactions—just that simple question, her answer, on a brief phone call. Until one day everything changed. While playing the traditional "Post Office" kissing game, with a small group of boys and girls at the Irving family's house up the street, Michael finally saw an opportunity. In this game, the "postman" would call a recipient into the closet to deliver their "mail." When it was Michael’s turn, he called Betty as his recipient and seized the moment. He didn’t just deliver a simple letter (one kiss) or even an airmail (two kisses); he gave Betty a "special delivery"—three kisses, marking the only incident he ever kissed her. This playful moment was a brief, sweet culmination of their innocent childhood bond, etched into Michael’s memory as the singular time their relationship went beyond a playful question and answer.
THE BALLOT OR THE BULLET
You are not to be so blinded by patriotism that you can't face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who does it or says it. Malcolm X
On April 3, 1964, Malcolm X, also known as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, delivered his famous “Ballot or the Bullet” speech, challenging America to confront its deep-seated racial injustices. As a Pan-Africanist- and staunch critic of white supremacy, Malcolm was often mischaracterized by mainstream propaganda as a proponent of violence despite never having committed violent acts himself. In reality, he was a victim of violence from the very forces of racism he spoke out against. The Ku Klux Klan (KKK), a white supremacist Christian terrorist group founded in 1865 following the abolition of slavery, murdered Malcolm's father by tying him to railroad tracks, where he was run over by a speeding train. Later in life Malcolm’s home was firebombed while his young daughters were inside, and he, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was ultimately assassinated by gunfire.
Malcolm X’s message was clear: he demanded life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for Black Americans by “any means necessary.” He stood against the legacy of oppression that had begun in 1619 when enslaved Africans were forcibly brought to America, a country that had, for centuries, stolen, raped, terrorized, and enslaved Black people. In 1865, with President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, Black Americans were legally freed from bondage, but their struggle for equality and recognition as citizens persisted. By 1964, America was at a crossroads. It could either continue the brutal and illegal mistreatment of African Americans or honor their constitutional rights and recognize their humanity under international human rights law.
Malcolm X's speech highlighted the strategic choice facing America: adopt the peaceful, passive resistance championed by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in the tradition of Mahatma Gandhi, or risk bloodshed through an African-American revolution. Malcolm's called for justice, rooted in the fierce desire for dignity and equality, resonated as a stark warning that the time for change was now.
“Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. "Letter from Birmingham Jail," April 16, 1963
On March 26, 1964, a historic moment unfolded when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Malcolm X met briefly on Capitol Hill. This once-in-a-lifetime meeting, immortalized in a photograph, now hangs proudly in Michael’s home office as a reminder of that powerful intersection of two civil rights leaders with differing, yet complementary, approaches to justice. By this time, Malcolm X had begun securing international support for the African-American liberation movement. He garnered backing from African leaders, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, Cuban revolutionary Fidel Castro, and Maoist China, all of whom recognized the global implications of the civil rights struggle in the United States.
Faced with the growing potential for international condemnation and the threat of violent consequences from external powers, America was forced to confront its own hypocrisy. The nation could either live up to the ideals enshrined in its Constitution or continue down a path of domestic terrorism, deploying attack dogs, State police, and the National Guard to suppress peaceful demonstrations. The brutality inflicted on African-Americans, broadcast to the world through television, became too glaring to ignore for a global superpower that prided itself on freedom and democracy.
Malcolm X's "Ballot or the Bullet" message was clear: either America granted Black Americans their rights through peaceful democratic means, or it would face the possibility of violent revolution and international backlash. The weight of this global scrutiny, combined with the internal civil rights pressure, was too much for the United States to bear.
In 1965, America finally passed the Voting Rights Act under President Lyndon B. Johnson, a critical piece of legislation ensuring African-Americans could exercise their right to vote free from the systematic barriers that had long oppressed them. While President John F. Kennedy is often remembered as a champion of civil rights, he never actually signed any civil rights legislation during his presidency. In fact, as a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, Kennedy had voted against the 1957 Civil Rights Act proposed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, revealing a more complicated legacy on race relations. Ultimately, it was the combined pressure from leaders like Dr. King and Malcolm X, along with the mounting weight of domestic and international outcry, that led to significant changes in American law and society.
Newark, New Jersey
Mike Van Allen attended Broadway Elementary School in Newark’s North Ward, a predominantly blue-collar, Italian residential neighborhood. During this time, Michael’s passion for swimming was sparked when he was enthusiastically recruited and drafted onto the Newark Boys’ Club Swim Team, where he earned numerous certificates, awards, and trophies. As he advance academically to Broadway Junior High School, he thrived in the protected environment of his home at 14 Chester Avenue. However, beyond his insulated world, political and social unrest simmered in Newark and across America.
According to U.S. Attorney Herbert J. Stern, Newark was under the control of the Mafia, a criminal organization that contributed to the heroin epidemic ravaging the Black community. The civil rights movement had stirred unrest among both Black and white Americans, and in Newark, figures like Anthony Imperiale, a race-baiting civic leader and politician, emerged as symbols of white backlash. Imperiale gained national attention in the 1960s for his opposition to busing for school desegregation and his calls for armed white self-defense. He organized the North Ward First Aid Squad, which, under the guise of providing medical aid, carried out vigilante-style patrols to "protect" white residents from supposed racial threats. Imperiale became infamous for his warning, “When the Black Panther comes, the white hunter will be waiting.”
Tensions escalated in Newark, and on July 12, 1967, the Newark Rebellion ignited, triggered by the brutal arrest of a Black cab driver named John Smith. After allegedly driving around a double-parked police car, Smith was stopped, interrogated, and beaten by white police cops before being taken to the fourth precinct headquarters. Rumors quickly spread that Smith had died in police custody, despite being taken to a hospital. A crowd gathered outside the precinct, and when civil rights leaders emerged from the building after visiting Smith, they urged the crowd to remain calm. However, they were shouted down, and soon, bricks and bottles were hurled at the precinct. The unrest escalated into full-scale rebellion, spreading from Newark’s Central Ward to downtown.
As the violence intensified, the New Jersey State Police and the National Guard were called in. Over six days of rebellion, from July 12 to July 17, 1967, the city saw deadly confrontations between residents and law enforcement. Dozens of people were killed, 725 were injured, and over 1,500 Black citizens were arrested as Newark burned. The rebellion exposed deep-seated frustrations with systemic racism, poverty, heroin addiction and police brutality in the city.
At the time, Newark was controlled by a corrupt Italian-American political machine led by Mayor Hugh Addonizio, a former U.S. Congressman. Addonizio’s administration was rife with scandal, and in 1970, he was convicted of extorting $1.4 million from city contractors. His notorious comment, “There’s no money in Washington, but you can make a million bucks as mayor of Newark,” highlighted the extent of the corruption that exacerbated the city’s problems.
In response to the uprising, Governor Richard Hughes appointed a commission to investigate its causes. The commission’s report concluded that Newark’s urban renewal efforts had failed the city’s poorest residents, who were supposed to be the chief beneficiaries. It also condemned the state of “ghetto schools,” noting that poor, mostly Black children had no hope of success in the current system. While a few might overcome the barriers, the majority were left behind, a waste of human potential that society could no longer afford.
By 2014, Newark’s public education system had evolved, but racial and economic segregation persisted. The rise of charter schools, often segregated by SES and skin color, became the new face of urban education renewal, raising questions about whether true progress had been made since the rebellion of 1967.
THE PHANTOM PUNCH
“I float like a butterfly and sting like a bee, that’s why they call me Muhammad Ali.”
Muhammad Ali
During the turbulent era of social and political unrest, Michael found solace in the world of sports. His athletic hero was Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali. The Cassius Clay vs. Sonny Liston fight on February 25, 1964, for the world heavyweight boxing championship, captivated audiences around the globe and remains one of the most anticipated and controversial bouts in sports history. Clay, a 22-year-old challenger with a brash and charismatic persona, had already won the light-heavyweight gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics and was known for his speed, agility, and boundless confidence. His unfiltered comments and fearless demeanor struck fear into his opponents and irritated the racists of the time, who optimistically referred to any white opponent as "The Great White Hope."
The fight itself culminated in a dramatic and mysterious moment that became known as "the phantom punch." Most people at ringside, including Clay himself, were unsure whether the punch had even connected. After Liston fell, Clay asked his entourage, "Did I hit him?" Footage and slow-motion replays later confirmed that Clay had landed a quick, chopping right hand, dubbed the "Anchor Punch," as Liston was moving forward. Liston struggled to regain his footing, and though he eventually got up, Clay landed four unanswered punches before the referee, Jersey Joe Walcott, belatedly declared a knockout, ending the match.
In the aftermath, Clay leaped to the center of the ring, performing a celebratory jig while shouting, "I'm the greatest!" and "I shook up the world!" It was a defining moment in both sports and cultural history as he also proclaimed his new name: Muhammad Ali. Ali's brash style, refusal to conform, and advocacy for his principles made him an icon beyond the ring.
Michael holds onto this pivotal moment in sports history with pride. In his home gym, he proudly displays the iconic photograph of Muhammad Ali standing triumphantly over a fallen Sonny Liston, a reminder of the fighter's courage, skill, and impact on the world—a source of personal inspiration throughout Michael's life.
THE MOTOWN SOUND
“Say it loud! I’m black and I’m proud!” James Brown
Before the 1967 Newark Rebellion, Michael’s father had relocated the family from Newark to 330 North Maple Avenue in East Orange, a neighboring 3.9-square-mile, tree-lined town that, while safer, maintained a similarly racially intolerant political environment. In an effort to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps, Michael sought solace in music. He joined his Columbian Grammar School band, located at the corner of Springdale Avenue and Grove Street in East Orange, where he began playing the clarinet.
Music became his escape, and Michael found joy in spinning 45s and LP 33s on his record player, immersing himself in the legendary sounds of Motown. He was enchanted by the voices of Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Lionel Richie, The Jackson Five, and many other Motown greats, which provided the soundtrack to his youth. Through music Michael navigated the complexities of the world around him, using the rhythms and melodies to find peace and happiness during a time of social upheaval.
Michael and his dad shared quality time together when they sat at the dining table and listened to iconic musical artists such as Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole. They would both listen to 710 AM WOR talk radio personalities such as Long John Nebel, and Rambling with (John) Gambling and Paul Harvey on WABC radio before retiring for the evening.
Paul Harvey was an American pianist, radio broadcaster, and a former host of News and Comment on ABC Radio Networks was famous for a compilation of over 50 stranger-than-fiction true stories with unexpected endings. His storytelling style was truly unique, and the way he framed his narratives kept listeners on the edge of their seats. His “The Rest of the Story” segments were iconic, often revealing surprising or touching twists at the end. Paul Harvey always shared interesting stories. He would typically begin the story with a rather mundane event but the climax of his narrative would characteristically be at the end. And he would always end that part of his story with the phrase,“ Now you know... the rest of the story!
Here is one of the interesting Paul Harvey stories that Mike and his dad attentively listened to over the years. “Years ago, a teacher in Detroit asked Steven Morris to help her find a mouse that was lost in the classroom. You see, she appreciated the fact that nature had given Steven something no one else in the room had. Nature had given Steven a remarkable pair of ears to compensate for his blind eyes. But this was really the first time Steven had been shown appreciation for those talented ears. Years later, he says that this act of appreciation was the beginning of a new life. You see, from that time on he developed his gift of hearing and went on to become, under the stage name of Stevie Wonder, one of the great pop singers and songwriters of all time.
"Now you know ... the rest of the story!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QblkQ-J6zio
Those evenings with Mike and his dad, listening to Paul Harvey wrap up his tales with that signature phrase “And now you know... the rest of the story!” were meaningful and treasured times.
In the late 1960s, East Orange High School was undergoing a cultural transformation as more Black students enrolled, bringing racial tensions to the forefront. One of the most striking symbols of this tension was the swimming pool. Decades earlier, in the 1930s, Robert L. Carter, a Black student and future civil rights strategist, protested the discriminatory policies surrounding the pool. At the time, Black students were allowed to use it only on Fridays after school, alternating by gender, and the pool was drained and cleaned afterward before white students used it again. Carter’s persistent protests eventually led to the pool's closure, denying access to all students. The once Olympic-sized pool was filled with cement and replaced by marching band facilities, ostensibly to address segregation but leaving students like Michael with no opportunity to pursue their love of swimming.
When Michael entered East Orange High in 1967, he was already grappling with these limitations. A natural swimmer, he had no pool to train in and turned his focus toward joining the school’s marching band. That summer, his mother, supportive and optimistic, took him to the City Music Center in Newark for clarinet lessons to prepare him. She hoped these lessons would help him secure a spot in the band.
However, Michael’s encounter with the music teacher, Mr. Tony, was a devastating experience. Instead of teaching him the clarinet, the teacher subjected him to demeaning and painful treatment by painfully squeezing his mouth while pretending to adjust his embouchure. At 13, Michael couldn’t fully grasp or articulate the racism and unprofessionalism he had faced. Emotionally hurt, he quit after just one lesson. His mother, unaware of the cruelty, assumed he had lost interest, leaving Michael to process the pain on his own.
When the school year began, Michael faced more challenges. Despite the new marching band facilities, he failed to qualify for the band under Director Mr. Hanson. Meanwhile, at 5'5" and 150 pounds, he lacked the height and weight helpful to a typical basketball or football player, so he failed to make either team. Without swimming, music, or sports to turn to, Michael’s options seemed increasingly limited.
Adding to his sense of isolation, Michael lost his closest friends from Columbian Junior High School. Mark Lago, Robert Flaherty, and David Schwartz all went on to attend other schools, including the predominantly white Scott High School and private institutions like Seton Hall College Preparatory. The camaraderie and support he had once relied on were now absent, leaving him to navigate these challenges largely on his own.
Despite these setbacks, Michael showed remarkable resilience. With no extracurricular activities to fill his time, he decided to find a job. Employment and the study of martial arts became ways to reclaim a sense of purpose and productivity, allowing him to channel his energy into meaningful things. These decisions marked the beginning of Michael’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity, using intelligence and grit to navigate the challenges life presented.
While the scars of systemic racism and personal injustices like those inflicted by Mr. Tony stayed with him, Michael found ways to rise above them. By seeking employment opportunities and focusing on personal growth, he began building a foundation for a future defined by perseverance and strength. These early experiences, though painful, taught him valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of creating his path forward.
Laverne Robinson
“No, this trick won't work. How on earth are you ever going to explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love? ” ― Albert Einstein
When Michael was a teenager, he took his first employment as a pharmacy clerk at Kaye's Drug Store on the corner of Lincoln and Main Streets in East Orange. One day, a very pretty girl patronized the store. Michael immediately recognized Laverne from school. They exchanged glances, smiles and friendly words as he bagged her purchase. Michael waved “ adios” to Laverne and reassured her that he would see her in Spanish class, on the following day. Al- the pharmacist - brought to Michael's attention that he had failed to ring-up her purchase on the register. Having witnessed the flirtatious juvenile behavior, the pharmacist realized that this was an oversight and did not make him pay out-of-pocket for this distraction. Michael was relieved because he only earned the then minimum wage of $1.40 per hour. The next day, Laverne approached Michael in the school's hallway with the money and apologized for not having paid at the store. Michael refused the money but accepted her apology and explained that he needed her telephone number in case he had to 'follow-up.' Laverne knew where Michael was going with his alternative motive, and it was for that reason that she gave him her number. They both laughed aloud and staggered disorderly into their Spanish class- tardy, yet still laughing disturbingly loudly, while being admonished by the teacher Ms. Margaret Yobbi.
At this time, Michael found an extracurricular activity outside the school. He studied mixed martial arts, including Korean styles of Taekwondo, Aikido, Karate, Shito-Ryu, and Jujutsu, under sensei Aaron J. Walker (https://ajwmartialarts.com/about-us/) and three powerful Muslim warriors Ibrahim Sharif (AKA George Pryor), Bernard Truesdale, and Harry Baker, Jr., at the East Orange School of Martial Arts on Main/Clinton Street. Michael then unofficially changed his middle name of Anthony—which he never used—to his secular fighting name, Ali. Kenpo Ju-Jitsu Karate Academy -----> https://bakersredirondragon.com
He took the martial arts seriously from an athletic as well as a way of life - standpoint. He advanced through the various intermediate grades (white, yellow, green, purple) before qualifying to defend for the brown belt classification. He had to fight an advanced martial artist with a black belt status to do this. The opponent assigned, happened to be a high school friend. Michael fought Buddy and scored adequate qualifying points in his performance against Buddy with a risky, unexpected but well executed Taekwondo spinning back 'phantom' kick. Avoiding the brunt of Michael’s kick, and either sincerely caught by surprise, or deciding not to block and counter - something that he had done many times before - Buddy fell back into the hanging beads at the end of the dojo, looking like a defenseless victim, while securing Michael’s newly acquired advanced status.
To this day, Buddy humbly says that he was caught by surprise, and denies taking the proverbial ‘dive’. Michael questions, but still credits Buddy for being complaisant and allowing him to advance, thus placing Michael in contention for his brown belt. Buddy - better known today as Dr. Obery M. Hendricks, Jr. – a former college president - is a Princeton University-educated PhD scholar, minister, well-known author, and distinguished Ivy League professor at Columbia University. Michael remembers how well Buddy played the guitar and how often they found themselves competing for the same girls’ affection. Today they occasionally share commentary via Facebook. As to whether Michael actually delivered the swift spinning back roundhouse 'phantom' kick – with no friendly assistance - remains inconclusive.
After high school graduation, at 17 years of age and with the Vietnam War underway, Michael flew to Greensboro, North Carolina and enlisted in the North Carolina A & T State University Air Force Recruiting Officers Training Corps where he studied military science. Exhausted of tuition money, he returned to East Orange.
Although born in the Big Apple, Michael made history in the Oranges. He was a commuting student in his hometown college where he drove his British MGB convertible sports car to school. He was the first student of color awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Uppsala College. He also rode his French Motorbecane bicycle back and forth the Rutgers Newark medical school where he matriculated in the students for medicine program. His hometown’s health department hired Michael. He conducted microbiological test for the detection of bacteria in public food, water and milk, employing various bacteriological techniques. He screened children for contaminated blood levels of lead and he prepared, organized and secured Pap smear slides used for the detection of cervical cancer. Michael enjoyed doing the Wednesday bacteria testing. On these mornings, inspectors would go to various local delicatessens and take samples of shrimp and tuna salads in plastic bags for lab testing. Michael’s lunch was determined for that day, if the samples were safely within specifications, all he needed was a couple slices of bread, and he usually had. If he had not ridden his bicycle to work daily, he would have undoubtedly gained a couple of pounds that summer. In any event, all of the local delicatessens were in code.
Michael moved from his parents' home and rented a bachelor’s crib at the Andrea Towers Condominium studio apartment #608 at 70 South Munn Avenue, East Orange. After being awarded a chemistry certificate by Fairleigh Dickinson University, he resigned from his hometown's health department to work as a Biochemist at Merck & Co., a world-renowned pharmaceutical giant. He performed qualitative and quantitative analysis, using instrumental and wet chemical procedures in Quality Control. His talents and skills were quickly recognized. He was promoted from analytical chemistry to research & development to support the Microbial Chemotherapeutic, Pharmacometric and Antibiotic programs. Still in his 20's, he earned enough money to fully pay off his college debt, buy a luxury one-bedroom Apt#705 condominium apartment at Andrea Towers, and purchase a brand new Sapphire Blue 325i BMW automobile.
Michael fell in love with his high school school sweetheart, whom he had taken to the senior prom held at the West Orange Manor. Succinctly, Laverne had a miscarriage and later died of cancer. These were the saddest times of Michael's life. These heartbreaking events prompted him to take a life audit and re-prioritize his life's values. Initially, he submerged himself into his work. He accepted a medical research position at St. Michael's Medical Center in Newark and worked at the Blood Institute in the Hematology/Oncology department. He coordinated medical research projects for the separation and purification of plasma proteins from AIDS patients using Isoelectric Focusing, High-Pressured Liquid Chromatography, SDS Three-Dimensional Gel Electrophoresis and several hematological methods. After this, he transformed from the life and physical sciences to the social and political sciences.
He was appointed chairperson of a chapter of the Organization of African Unity and a supportive member of the "People’s Organization of Progress” (POP) chaired by Lawrence Hamm. He was elected block association president, appointed municipal fourth ward Treasurer, and Essex County Committee executive board district leader. He was the host for his cable television show, "The first Step." He was appointed by the Mayor (unanimously confirmed by the City Council) to serve as the Commissioner for the City of East Orange. After several campaigns and re-elections, dissatisfied with the failure of politics in serving the best interest of the people, Commissioner MAVA decided to return to the pure sciences via academia. After he was awarded a Master's degree, he returned to his roots becoming the first and only Black instructor in the chemistry/physics department at his undergraduate college. He taught Inorganic, Organic, and Biochemistry. Listed in Who's Who in American Education, he served as a debate coach and senior class advisor at Newark Central High School. He continued his formal education and returned to the island of his birth. He did his graduate studies in Biochemistry at Columbia University in Harlem, New York City.
Michael accepted a chemistry teaching appointment at America’s oldest public high school specializing in the Fine and Performing arts, Arts High School in Newark, New Jersey where his sister graduated as a violinist. In addition to his sister, many talented people graduated from Arts High School including the legendary songstress Sarah Vaughn, Melba Moore, Beverly Marcell, Woody Shaw, Connie Francis, Jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter, actor Tiesha Campbell-Martin, Savon Glover, Haas Manning, and Michael B. Jordan. Michael served as the advisor for the Allied Health Careers' and the National Honor Society. Michael returned to Rutgers medical school to do Pharmacokinetical research, and co-authored publications in medical journals including Clinical Research.
In 1997, Van Allen was appointed a teaching position where he taught biochemistry in the pre-medical program at Rutgers Medical College. Contemporaneously, he was promoted to position of science department chair by the Newark Public Schools. Education runs in his family; his sister Barbara teaches college mathematics and her son David attended Dartmouth University. Michael received his pinnacle of recognition- after ten years of service as a high school science educational leader- when appointed in 2007, by the New Jersey Department of Education to establish the benchmarks to the NJ Board of Education for the Science High School Proficiency Assessment. (HSPA is a NJ exit exam that 80,000 science students throughout the State must pass in order to graduate from High School.)
Michael's granddad, Cecil X. Scott.
"Lawd, Lawd" by Cecil Scott & his Bright
Click PIC for audio
Adult life
Living Life to the Fullest: Michael A. Van Allen's Inspiring Journey
“I love it when people doubt me. It makes me work harder to prove them wrong.”
Derek Jeter, NY Yankee Captain and Short Stop
Although Michael A. Van Allen still doesn't qualify to join any formal bands, he continues to practice on the baby grand piano in his living room and the keyboard in his home office. He finds great joy and fulfillment in his administrative work, positively impacting students' lives. His contributions extend beyond his profession, as he regularly supports his favorite charities, the United Negro College Fund and the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, and the Boys & Girls Club of America, which brings him deep personal satisfaction.
Michael is living through the happiest times of his life, fully immersed in the present. He has a passion for his career, his social connections, and his many hobbies. His life is filled with meaningful experiences, from helicopter flights down the Grand Canyon, European tours, camel rides across Africa, and climbing the Great Wall of China, to scuba diving in the Pacific Islands. His daily routine includes early morning laps in the pool, followed by coffee, watching MSNBC-TV, and readingThe New York Times. He finds relaxation in movies, music, and playing on his hometown softball league. He even enjoys the thrill of driving his BMW 5-series.
For 15 years, between 1990 and 2005, Michael embraced the life of an international bachelor. He resided in a colonial home at 3 Watchung Avenue in West Orange Township, just up the road from where the famous scientist Thomas Edison once lived and developed his inventions. During this time, Michael lived a cosmopolitan lifestyle, forming friendships with books, sipping fine wines, and enjoying dinner dates with a diverse array of women from across the globe.
Later, he moved with Mia—his smart, loyal, and beautiful black Labrador, whom he affectionately called the daughter he never had—to Randolph in Morris County, New Jersey. Their home in Mount Freedom felt like paradise, set amidst a peaceful suburban environment. Michael’s civic engagement extended to running for Randolph town council and studying legislation at the Rutgers Eagleton Institute in New Brunswick. He took pride in his political nomination and the overwhelming support he received from neighbors who braved the rain to vote for him in the November General Election. He also served as Morris County Committee District Leader and Treasurer of the Randolph Democratic Committee.
On the softball field, Michael played second base and catcher, earning the nickname Derrick Jeter. Not because of his skills but due to his Jeter jersey—an easy distinction among the other Mikes in the league. His Dutch Colonial “castle,” nestled on a couple of bucolic acres, provided a serene setting surrounded by forests, lakes, and parks. The other property, located in Montville, NJ, often welcomed visits from wildlife, including deer, birds, a smart fox, and an occasional bear affectionately named Yogi.
Michael’s passion for leadership and advocacy shone through his re-election as labor leader on the City Association of Supervisors and Administrators union’s executive board (CASA, Local #20), under the American Federation of School Administrators (AFL-CIO). He also became an active member of the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) and the New Jersey Science Education Leadership Association.
Michael serves as the Affirmative Action Officer at Malcolm X Shabazz High School, formerly known as South Side High School, where notable alumni include former NYC Mayor Ed Koch and comedian Jerry Lewis. He has had the honor of meeting President Bill Clinton and, on another occasion, the daughters of Malcolm X at Shabazz High School. The school holds significant historical value, as it was where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his last public speech before his assassination.
Michael’s contributions to education earned him further recognition when he was appointed as a Trustee for the County College of Morris in Randolph Township, his hometown. He also serves as a School Administrator at Malcolm X Shabazz High School for the Newark Board of Education.
Michael A. Van Allen’s life is a testament to resilience, passion, and a commitment to living each day to the fullest. From his impactful career to his vibrant personal pursuits, Michael continues to inspire and lead by example. He graciously donates and support "A Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival."
“A bachelor is a man who comes to work each morning from a different direction”
Sholom Aleichem
Michael’s insatiable thirst for Pinot Noir, compounded with his libidinous appetite for women of all nationalities and ethnicities, has meant partying and laughing loudly among his baseball teammates about his world travels. He roared, “I take ‘em from 18 to 81, blind, dumb and crazy, if they can’t walk, I’ll drag ‘em!” On his recent return from Denmark, followed by the “Virgin” Islands excursion, he boasted with laughter from the batter’s circle shouting to his team in the dugout, “Oh, they just call them the ‘Islands’ now!”
The Genesis of a Public Policy Analyst and Advocate
"If you've got 'em by the balls, their heart and mind will follow."
—U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson
The most intriguing course Michael undertook during his recent doctoral studies in Education Leadership, Management, and Policy at Seton Hall University was "Higher Education Public Policy Analysis," led by Professor Rong Chen. Ironically, it was during this seminar that Michael broke his perfect attendance record. He “cut” the class to participate in a critical vote on a highly contentious public policy issue in higher education.
The County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees was holding an extraordinary meeting in the college gymnasium. The space was packed with students, protesters, supporters, community leaders, politicians, advocacy groups, Tea Party activists, stakeholders, and media representatives. Michael had just flown in from an educational conference in Vancouver, Canada, and made it to CCM in time to cast his vote on a policy that would allow undocumented immigrants to matriculate at the college, provided they met the federal DREAM Act requirements. This policy change was the most significant in over a decade at CCM. The previous board, in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, had enacted a policy barring "illegal aliens" from attending the institution.
In 2011, Michael—an advanced doctoral student in education policy—had recently been appointed chair of the Minority Enrollment Committee. The motion allowing undocumented students to attend CCM was the first to emerge from his committee, and it was during this process that Michael developed a deep understanding of the policymaking world. Upon his return, he explained the "behind-the-scenes" intricacies of the policymaking process to his colleagues, providing insights beyond the media's portrayal of events. Michael's goal remains to bridge the worlds of theory, research, law, policy, and practice to promote educational success for underserved populations.
Michael firmly believes that socialism has never gained a foothold in America because many citizens—particularly the 47%—perceive themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed members of the wealthiest 2%. His advocacy for racial justice continues to be unwavering, and he identifies several key issues that demand urgent attention: racism, white privilege, the racial academic achievement gap, the racial health and wellness gap, and racial segregation in housing, employment, and schools.
He is particularly concerned with mass incarceration, the war on drugs, the "school-to-prison pipeline," income inequality, felony disenfranchisement, voter suppression, unemployment, police brutality, and the pervasive "blue code of silence" within law enforcement. Michael advocates for comprehensive reforms within the criminal justice system, including sentencing reform, raising the minimum wage to a livable standard, increasing voter participation, and advancing global justice and democracy.
As a scholar and advocate, Michael remains committed to these goals, seeking to address the systemic challenges that continue to hinder equity and justice in society.
Citizenship: Earth
Species: Homo Sapien Sapien
Race: Human
Sex: Cis-Hetero Male
Age: Aspiring Octogenerian
Color: Ethiopian brown
Politics: Freedom & Justice
Religion: Love
Denomination: Non-Delusional
Creed: Agnostic Atheist - I am an atheist because I don't believe in Gods, and I am an agnostic because I don't think imperfect beings are capable of knowing whether a perfect being exists.
PHILOSOPHY: I study evolutionary biology, philosophy, and psychology. I navigate life using the secular aspects of ancient and modern-day philosophies, including Absurdism, Empiricism, Existentialism, Nihilism, Objectivism, Rationalism, Stoicism, Utilitarianism, Buddhism, Humanism, and others. I ‘strawberry pick’ various ancient and modern-day philosophies. Then, I tweak, edit, improve, adapt, and practice my newly created philosophy in real-time, as I see fit, according to the times and conditions of my environment.
Language: (Bilingual) Math & Music
Dialect: Laughter
Accent: Smile :-)
DIET: Pescatarian: fish, seafood, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, legumes, eggs, cheese, oat milk, olive oil, herbs & spices. Occasional vitamins and mineral supplements are B-12, D-3, and Calcium. I minimize the consumption of sugar, sodium, simple carbs, and baked goods and consume zero trans fats, alcohol, poultry, meat, fast foods, or ultra-processed products.
HOBBIES: Reading books (Best Sellers and Signet Classics), scuba diving, and stargazing
INTEREST: Psychology, Philosophy, Proverbs, Quotes & Astronomy
NEWS: Science, the NY Times, NPR Radio, PBS & local TV-12, NBC, ABC, and CBS.
ENTERTAINMENT: Theater, Film, Movies, WQXR-FM 105.9 Radio, TV, and Social Media.
FITNESS ACTIVITIES: He maintains a balanced approach to health and wellness through a combination of physical and mental practices. Swimming provides cardiovascular benefits, builds endurance, and supports heart health. Strength training - (including body strength, free weights, machines, resistance bands, and functional strength activities)- increases muscular strength and promotes muscle health. Vinyasa yoga enhances balance, flexibility, and overall mobility, while mindfulness meditation improves focus and fosters peace of mind, helping him remain present in each moment. Together, these practices form a holistic foundation for physical strength, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.
SLEEP: Mike and Deb understand sleep's critical role in maintaining overall health. Studies show that sleep deprivation can lead to heart disease, cognitive decline, obesity, and numerous other health issues. To support their well-being, they’ve made sleep a priority. They follow a consistent bedtime routine every night: flossing at precisely 8:57 PM and settling into bed by 9 PM. This commitment allows them to enjoy a full 9 hours of rest each night, reinforcing their health and resilience each day.
PASSION: Music, literature, canine, and human socializing
PROFESSION: Teaching, Research, and Service
VOCATION: Saxophonist/Clarinetist/Keyboard
ORGANIZATIONS: U.S. Masters Swimming, The Signet Society, Morris Museum Astronomical Society, the New Horizon Band in Mountain Lakes, and the 'Swing Tones' Jazz Band, Morris Plains, NJ.
Americans United for Separation of Church and State https://www.au.org
The Freedom from Religion Foundation https://ffrf.org
Michael A Van Allen's Manifesto:
At 70 years old, Michael A. Van Allen reflects on a life shaped by determination, accomplishment, and leadership. His mission has always been clear: to eradicate the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy, ecological devastation, and Christian nationalism while promoting global, secular, humanitarian values grounded in science. He believes thoughtful individuals must always stand on the side of justice, never with the executioners. Guided by the Golden Rule—treat others as you would want to be treated—Michael has worked to make justice and equality not just ideals, but realities.
Driven by a love for science, art, and the humanities, Michael’s identity as an educator, scientist, and activist has been central to his life. He has championed human rights, animal and environmental justice, and Black suffrage. As a proud supporter of Womanism and a conservationist, he advocates for equity for all. His passion for knowledge and learning fuels his identity as a lifelong reader and bibliophile.
Maintaining balance through discipline, Michael finds peace in his daily routines of long-distance swimming, playing the saxophone, and practicing yoga and weight training. His interests include stargazing as an amateur astronomer, where he contemplates humanity's place in the universe. A world traveler, atheist, and racial justice advocate, he consistently challenges anti-Black propaganda, Christian fascism, and white nationalism. His activism spans a broad range of issues, from prison abolition to Critical Race Theory, always striving for justice. He believes deeply in globalism, multiculturalism, and humanity's interconnectedness. As a Secular Democratic Socialist, Michael sees himself as a constant advocate for justice.
For decades, Michael has worked to dismantle white supremacy, science denialism, and resistance to truth. He has fought against income inequality, the wealth gap, the for-profit prison industry, and school segregation. He has opposed police brutality, human trafficking, and various forms of bigotry, including racism, xenophobia, and misogyny. Michael has stood firmly against poverty, climate change denial, and the damaging effects of capitalism, militarism, and theocracies.
Throughout his fight for a better world, Michael has remained committed to reason, critical thinking, and evidence-based action. His professional life as a biochemist—teaching inorganic, organic, and biochemistry at Upsala College and New Jersey Medical School—was grounded in these principles. As a scientist, he embraced rationalism and empiricism; as a human being, he sought peace through mindfulness meditation and yoga. Michael is a proud member of the 100-mile Swim Club, an avid gym-goer, and a scuba diver. He finds joy in books, dogs, music, and personal growth.
Michael has passed his activism torch. His advice to following generation is simple: embrace lifelong learning, remain adaptable, follow your passions, and take risks. Cultivate healthy habits, live within your means, and build meaningful connections. Above all, make a positive impact and believe in yourself. While Michael has dedicated his life to reducing suffering and injustices, and while his values continue to be embedded in science, humanity, environmental conservation, freedom and justice he now passes the torch to younger generations. He plans to spend his golden years using his time, talent, treasure and toil practicing self-care, and investing in his health, happiness, and serenity. Michael’s current motto is: “Physician, heal thyself.” He has turned inward, focusing on wellness, gratitude, and peace. He believes the greatest investment is in oneself, yielding the best returns. Living authentically and unconcerned with others' opinions, he recognizes that true freedom comes from being true to oneself. As Oscar Wilde once said, "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."
DEBBIE
You don’t marry the woman you can live with; you marry the woman you can’t live without.
Michael and Debbie share a passion for science and teaching and a deep, enduring love for each other. They taught chemistry, supervised science instruction, developed curricula, and led science departments for decades. Now, they enjoy a fulfilling life together in their beautiful home at Lake Valhalla in Montville, New Jersey. Shared social, political, and philosophical views strengthen their union, and their home is filled with joy and laughter, especially during their uncontrollable, breath-stealing belly laughs. Their relationship is built on love, humor, and mutual respect.
Reflecting on their childhoods, Debbie fondly remembers running through sprinklers on the green lawns of her family’s home in the White Meadow Lake community, chasing the Good Humor ice cream truck on hot summer days. In contrast, Michael reminisces about cooling off under Harlem’s fire hydrants on scorching city streets, with the constant hum of police sirens in the background. Though their upbringings differed, their shared love and understanding seamlessly bridge those differences.
In the rare moments when they disagree, their arguments always end in the same loving way. Michael often jokes that as the "man of the house," he always gets the last word, and that word is usually, “Yes, dear!” He knows that a happy spouse makes for a happy house.
Debbie comes from a distinguished family rooted in the medical profession. Her grandfather was a general practitioner, her father a gynecologist/obstetrician, her uncle a psychiatrist, and her brothers—one an oncologist in Australia and the other a surgeon in Connecticut—carry on the family’s legacy. One of Michael’s favorite family members is Sherry, Debbie's sister-in-law. From day one, Sherry welcomed and loved Michael sincerely. Sherry, a Harvard-educated immigration attorney who attended law school with Michelle Obama, is kind and brilliant. Debbie’s mother, a remarkable woman, graduated from Bronx Science High School at just 16 and earned a chemistry degree from NYU at 19, a testament to her intelligence and determination.
While Debbie's family has a legacy of medicine, Michael's family comes from a rich musical background. Both their fathers were born in the Bronx, graduated from Morris High School, and served in the U.S. Army during WWII. Debbie's father delivered babies at Harlem Hospital, while Michael’s father delivered mail from the NYC Post Office. Coincidentally, both families moved to New Jersey in 1963, and both mothers became widows when their husbands passed away at the same young age of 72.
Debbie, like her siblings, is fiercely competitive. One day, a note appeared on their door—a warm invitation from their new neighbor in the cul-de-sac to join a chili cook-off. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the community, have fun, and engage in a friendly competition to see who could make the best chili. Each family prepared a unique recipe, keeping their dishes anonymous as the neighbors gathered to judge.
The chili was judged on consistency—requiring the perfect balance of sauce, meat, beans, and other ingredients—as well as aroma, color, taste, and aftertaste. All the neighbors acted as judges, tasting and scoring each dish.
Michael already knew Debbie was an exceptional cook, but wanting to be gracious, he chose not to vote for her chili and opted for the second best pot instead. As they waited for the children to tally the votes, Michael glanced at Debbie with a playful smile and asked, “Which pot did you vote for?” Debbie’s face flushed slightly as she bashfully admitted she had voted for her own. They both burst into laughter.
Debbie’s competitive spirit paid off—her chili won the cook-off! They returned home proudly with the Blue Ribbon and the coveted wooden spoon engraved with "World’s Best Chili." It was a day filled with laughter, good food, and the forging of new friendships—one they would always cherish.
Debbie is a graceful and intelligent woman, standing 5’7” with a slender build, striking green eyes, and natural blonde hair. Fluent in Spanish, she is accomplished and a devoted mother to two remarkable daughters. An inspiring educator, Meredith lives in Florida with her husband, a successful business owner, and their four adorable children. Lauren, a talented corporate attorney, resides in an elegant NYC condo with her husband, a dedicated healthcare professional at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan. Debbie's daughters reflect her nurturing spirit and commitment to excellence, thriving personally and professionally.
When Deb’s not at home cooking healthy Mediterranean cuisine or watching Netflix with Michael, she can often be found on the pickleball court. She has transferred her outstanding tennis skills to the new craze sweeping the nation—America’s fastest-growing sport - Pickleball. She practices daily and competes in tournaments across the county. Now a medalist in pickleball, Deb is kind and friendly, and her personality has made her a beloved member of their Mountain Lakes pickleball community, where everyone adores her. To know Debbie is to love her.
Despite their different backgrounds, Michael and Debbie always support each other, even in fierce competitions on pickleball courts or during home ping-pong. They celebrate their anniversary on June 12, Loving Day, in honor of the Supreme Court decision that legalized interracial marriage—a day that holds deep significance for them. Since meeting on Match (dot) com during President Bush’s administration, their love has grown stronger each year. Grateful for their shared laughter, love, and companionship, they look forward to decades of happiness ahead.
Thank you, Match (dot) com, for years of love since 2008.
SUNSET
As Michael grew older, he adapted his physical fitness routine. He transitioned from competing in the Randolph Lake Triathlons, Rutgers Half-Marathons, and practicing martial arts to a more sustainable regimen. Following the advice of his U.S. Masters Swimming coach, he began swimming one mile three times a week. On alternate days, he embraced weight lifting and vinyasa yoga, practicing 60-minute sessions under the guidance of instructors at his Mountain Lakes yoga studio.
Michael A. Van Allen once had lofty academic goals, including earning a Ph.D. in education and writing a book. Unfortunately, his journey was interrupted when there were faculty changes in his doctoral program, leaving him with an "All But Dissertation" (ABD) status. His advisor, Dr. Rebecca Cox, accepted a position at a university overseas, creating an obstacle in his progress. Although Michael passed his qualifying exams and completed his coursework, he struggled to find another advisor willing to support his dissertation on Critical Race Theory, a controversial subject at the time. Rather than choosing an easier topic, such as confirming that affluent students with no employment have better attendance and higher grades than those working shift jobs, Michael held firm to his desire to contribute meaningful literature on Critical Race Theory. He didn’t just want a Ph.D.; he wanted to turn his dissertation into a book, making a lasting impact in the field.
The life and times for Michael have met with adversity, success, and a conglomeration of various relationships.
Michael no longer keeps in touch with his East Orange High School friends, Garfield and Harvey, but he is glad to have maintained a close relationship with his 8th-grade friend, Mark. He fondly remembers playing basketball with Mark and visiting his house, where Mark's grandmother would bake them cookies. Mark went on to become a high school math teacher, retired as the president of his teachers' union, and now lives in Pennsylvania with his wife, Linda. Michael and his partner Debbie often visit Mark and Linda, and the couple reciprocates by visiting them in Montville. Michael and Mark frequently text, chat on the phone, and occasionally meet up for a bite to eat.
In addition to Mark, Michael had another 8th-grade friend, David. Michael, Mark, and David and others played basketball together at their school's Columbian Park playground. Michael recalls visiting David's house in the fall of 1967, raking leaves together, and enjoying sandwiches prepared by David’s mother. Michael was surprised to learn that not all Jewish families followed the strict dietary laws, but he appreciated the ham and cheese sandwiches since both boys were hungry. After 8th grade, their paths diverged: David went to a predominantly white high school, while Michael attended East Orange High School, which was largely Black. They lost touch for over 50 years but eventually reconnected through social media. However, Michael was disheartened to see a Confederate flag on David’s profile, the American equivalent of the swastika. When questioned, this Texas resident, now Dr. David Schwartz dismissed it as "heritage," but to Michael, it echoed the same "cut-and-paste" racist rhetoric. It reminded him of the Civil Rights murders of Black and Jewish workers like Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner, stirring emotions of betrayal.
Michael’s feelings about race are further complicated by innocent images of children of different races hugging and playing together. While such pictures are meant to symbolize hope for a better future, they remind Michael of the scene in Roots where Missy Anne, a white character, betrays her Black childhood friend, Kizzy, despite their bond as young girls. This memory hits close to home, as Michael personally knew the actress Leslie Uggams, who played Kizzy, decades ago when she dated his uncle Ronald in Harlem. Some friends are for life, others well they spoil like milk, so you pick them up and throw their ass out before they stink up the place.
THE PROMISED LAND:
After celebrating his 70th birthday, Michael considers his life’s work largely complete, especially in terms of his activism. Having dedicated years to fighting injustice and striving to help his people reach their "Promised Land," he now enjoys a more peaceful, reflective phase of life. While he votes in every election, joyfully serve jury duty, graciously donate to political and social causes and entertains himself by sharing thoughtful social media posts on race and the social constructs of faith, his activism has significantly lessened in remarkably i.e., no more protracted, often unfruitful, community meetings.
Michael has shifted his energy toward personal wellness and self-improvement, focusing on habits that enhance his overall quality of life. He prioritizes activities like mindful meditation, strength training, quality sleep, healthy eating, and maintaining meaningful relationships. Gone are the days when he immersed himself in the relentless 24-hour news cycle or was consumed by the world's problems, most of which are beyond his control. Now, in his Golden years, he passes the torch and leaves those issues to younger and future generations to tackle in their own way while he practices self-care.
He and his wife, Debbie, have created their personal "land of milk and honey," filled with health, happiness, and tranquility. Michael lives by the motto, "Physician, heal thyself," emphasizing the importance of self-care. He is committed to a healthy Mediterranean diet and practices yoga and meditation to keep his mind and body balanced. Every morning, he begins his day with black coffee, accompanied by soft classical music and a good book.
Exercise remains a vital part of his routine. His days involve cross-training with swimming, weightlifting, and yoga to maintain physical strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Michael also stays mentally sharp by engaging in activities like reading, writing, journaling, and playing his horns. He plans to join Debbie in her fluency of Spanish, making language learning another shared passion. Their evenings together are filled with wholesome, nutritious, delicious meals and Netflix movie nights, creating a life brimming with love, humor, and joy.
Michael’s philosophy in his retirement revolves around maintaining a balance of the mind, and body. He refers to this as his "ménage à trois" of personal fulfillment: the MIND, through reading, writing and journaling; the BODY, through swimming, strength training, and yoga; and the ESSENCE, through his love of music. His library, gym, and band practice give him a sense of growth, strength, and emotional well-being.
TRAVEL
Even in his golden years, Michael eagerly anticipates more travel adventures. A perfect example is his recent one-month trip to Australia with Debbie. After 18 hours of flight time and covering about 10,000 miles, they arrived to stay with his brother-in-law, Robert, a surgeon living there. Robert and his wife, Gem, who is also in healthcare, are currently building a new home. When Robert and Gem don’t visit the U.S., the family usually reunites at a halfway point in Hawaii.
During their Australian adventure, Michael and Debbie engaged in a wide variety of activities. Michael even drove Robert’s manual stick-shift truck—on the left side of the road! The truck’s stick and steering wheel were also on the "wrong" (English) side, which made for quite an experience.
They spent their days sailing on Robert’s private boat, camel riding, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. They also took helicopter flights, witnessed breathtaking sunrises and sunsets under the clear skies of the Southern Hemisphere, and attended an astronomy lecture outdoors. Dining under the stars, with the Milky Way above them and thousands of lights all around, was simply spectacular!
The couple visited zoos, rainforests, and Australia’s arid outback. At the aquarium, they walked through a glass tunnel while exotic fish swam above and around them. One of the highlights was a cable car ride with a glass-bottom view, floating a thousand meters above the rainforest, followed by a scenic train ride back. Before the trip came to a close, Michael and Debbie stayed in a hotel on the 70th floor and took in a performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House. They stayed in four other hotels along the way, ensuring they experienced everything Australia had to offer—and they did!
They explored a lot of Australia, only staying with Robert and Gem for one full week. After that, they took four domestic flights to explore Southern, Central, and Eastern Australia. Michael shared pictures on social media, including a playful shot of himself pretending to play a traditional musical instrument at a local store.
While there, Michael also kept up with his musical practice, playing his clarinet. He helped Robert collect firewood for a late-night bonfire, which they built exactly where Robert and Gem’s future living room would be. Friends, neighbors, co-workers, and guests gathered around the bonfire to share food, drinks, stories, and laughter. At one point, four wild horses wandered into the gathering, helping themselves to the food! Robert politely shooed them away, and the horses obediently left the party.
One neighbor later confessed to Michael that she had heard him playing the clarinet. She mentioned that her excitable American Terrier was unusually calmed by the "Sounds of Music" that Michael played. The terrier would lie down as if to sleep during Michael’s playing and would spring back to life once he stopped, eager for more. The story was incredible because the neighbor’s house was so far away, Michael couldn’t imagine anyone other than snakes or kangaroos hearing him play. But she knew the song, leaving no doubt!
Pictures on social media show Debbie dancing on the Australian hills, singing to the "Sounds of Music." The trip was a joyful adventure filled with laughter, exploration, and cherished memories.
THE REST OF THE STORY...
In retirement, music has become a central passion for Michael, a means of creating joy and fostering connections with others. The privilege to play and share music is something he cherishes, not only for the personal fulfillment it brings but also for its ability to strengthen bonds with family, old friends, and new acquaintances. Through music, he feels a deep sense of belonging to a global community that spans history and culture.
Music serves multiple purposes in Michael’s life. It creates social cohesion by bringing people together in a shared, safe environment. It also supports his mental sharpness, providing a kind of cognitive workout. Research in the field of music and cognitive psychology reveals that engaging with music—whether by playing, listening, or studying—enhances memory, focus, and concentration. It also boosts emotional well-being, reading skills, and executive function. Music, in this sense, is not only an enjoyable pastime for Michael but an essential tool for maintaining cognitive and emotional health as he ages.
Furthermore, scientific studies underscore music’s broader health benefits, such as reducing stress, anxiety, and blood pressure, while improving sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory. Music enriches Michael’s life in various ways, offering both relaxation and invigoration.
His musical journey begins each morning with classical music during his reading time, a ritual that centers his mind for the day ahead. Sometimes, for a bit of fun and energy, he dances to Funk and House music. When he listens to Jazz, his attention shifts to studying chord changes, reflecting his commitment to continually learning. And when he turns on Motown, R&B, and Classic Soul from the 1970s and '80s, it’s a trip down memory lane, romanticizing his school days and reliving the nostalgia of those eras.
Each genre serves a unique purpose in Michael’s life, whether it's fostering joy, facilitating reflection, or deepening his connection with both past and present. Through his love of R&B, Classic Soul, Funk, House, and Concert music, Michael finds not only pleasure but a way to keep growing, learning, and connecting with others. Music is therapeutic for him. Music gives him meaning and purpose in life, and as a third-generation jazz saxophonist, she is his mistress, passion, and legacy.
Everybody Loves Cecil X. Scott
Art Hodes, a devoted advocate for traditional jazz, fondly remembered Cecil X. Scott. Hodes was celebrated as one of the greatest white blues pianists, and he contributed to jazz through his distinctive piano style and his writings, radio shows, and educational television programs. A noted composer, historian, and teacher, Hodes’ admiration for Scott highlights the deep respect Cecil commanded within the jazz community. Hodes wrote:
"I’ll never forget the day I visited Cecil at his home in Harlem," Hodes recalled. "He lived in what we called a ‘railroad flat,’ a first-floor apartment with a long hallway running the length of it. Cecil welcomed us into the kitchen for a taste of something, and then he called in the family. He had 11 children, from the baby to the eldest, who was almost seventeen. I had to ask, ‘Man, how do you guys operate?’ Cecil laughed and said, ‘We eat in shifts and sleep in tiers.”
Amidst the challenges of raising such a large family, Cecil remained devoted to his music, and it was clear that his wife, Nina, played a central role in his success. "I think my wife Nina is the real reason for most of my success," Cecil once said. "When I lost my leg and became afraid to face people, she was the one who revived me and gave me the confidence to continue. She’s always been my encourager. We were born in the same town, in the same month, in the same year. We went to school together. She’s been with me all my life!"
Michael A. Van Allen's grandfather, Cecil X. Scott (born November 22, 1905, in Springfield, Ohio – died January 5, 1964, in New York City), was an American jazz clarinetist, tenor saxophonist, and bandleader. During their teenage years, he started his musical journey alongside his brother, drummer Lloyd Scott. The Scott brothers co-led a band through the late 1920s, securing residencies in Ohio, Pittsburgh, and New York City's Savoy Ballroom. The ensemble featured iconic musicians such as Dicky Wells, Frankie Newton, Bill Coleman, Roy Eldridge, Johnny Hodges, and Chu Berry.
In 1929, Cecil led the group while Lloyd continued managing it. Unfortunately, a severe leg injury in the early 1930s sidelined Cecil's career. However, after recovering, he resumed his musical journey, performing with Ellsworth Reynolds in 1932-33, and later with Teddy Hill, Clarence Williams, and Teddy Wilson, accompanying the legendary Billie Holiday. During the early 1940s, he played with Red Allen, Willie "The Lion" Smith, and Alberto Socarras before forming his own band in 1942, which included luminaries like Hot Lips Page and Art Hodes. Cecil also collaborated with Slim Gaillard during the latter part of the 1940s.
By 1950, Scott disbanded his group, choosing instead to work as a sideman, notably with Jimmy McPartland, while occasionally leading smaller ensembles. He remained active in the jazz scene until he died in 1964, leaving behind a legacy that includes contributions to some 75 albums.
Cecil credited much of his success to his wife, Nina, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Born in the same month and year as Cecil, Nina was his lifelong partner, raising 13 children while providing him with unwavering support and encouragement.
For more about Cecil Scott, visit these links:
Michael Finally Made the Band!
The race is not given to the early bloomers or the most talented, but to the one who endures to the end.
Overture:
In the 1960s, Michael’s grandfather told his eldest daughter Sarah—Michael’s mom—that if her son wanted to learn the saxophone, he should first learn the clarinet. So, in 8th grade, Michael began taking clarinet lessons. However, he struggled so much that by the end-of-year concert, the music director advised him not to blow into the instrument, but to simply pretend to play. His proud parents sat in the audience, giving him encouraging smiles as he mimicked playing alongside the “normal” kids.
Michael didn’t make the high school marching band, and to make matters worse, standing at just 5’5" and weighing 150 pounds, he didn’t make the football or basketball teams either. When sports didn’t work out, he turned to academics, studying biochemistry by default. While no one questioned his knowledge of polypeptides or nucleic acids, this restored only remnants of his self-confidence. Still, this unintentional shift proved to be a beneficial. Michael went on to study biochemistry at Columbia University, later becoming a research biochemist at Merck Pharmaceuticals. He also taught college-level inorganic, organic, and biochemistry, and after a 40+ year career in research and academia, he retired as an officer of the County College of Morris Board of Trustees and as a school administrator with Newark Public Schools.
Interlude:
As he transitioned into retirement in 2015, Michael took on the role of Commissioner for the Morris County Human Relations Commission. While staying active with his triweekly one-mile swims, he overheard the sounds of a concert band playing near his swimming hole in Mountain Lakes. Curiosity led him to investigate, and before long, he joined the Morris County New Horizons Band, an international community band for musicians aged 55 and up. This supportive and instructive senior band has members of all ages, including their 96-year-old drummer, Gene.
Back in 1963, at the age of 10, Michael promised his mom that he would follow his grandfather’s advice: to become comfortable with the clarinet before moving on to the saxophone. Decades later, after attending his first band camp at the New England Adult Band Camp in Sidney, Maine, Michael finally felt that comfort with his “licorice stick.” Today, he plays both the clarinet and the tenor and alto saxophones. His clarinet, affectionately named Black Brenda, allows him to “double” as a versatile musician and travel lightly. Meanwhile, his saxophone, Golden Lady Beverly, gives him the power to play jazz standards and spread joy at jazz festivals, coffee shops, public parks, and senior living communities.
As Duke Ellington once said, “It don’t mean a thing, if it ain’t got that swing.”
Coda:
Michael A. Van Allen has finally made the band! He now doubles on the sax and clarinet for “Swing Tones,” a talented 17-piece traditional swing jazz big band in Morris County, NJ. And as Paul Harvey, the ABC Radio broadcaster, would say, Now you know… the rest of the story!
In conclusion:
Closing Thoughts, Epithet, and Requiem
FYI: More pictures on my Instagram account. More narrative on my Facebook and LinkedIn accounts. Click the taps for social media, race, and God.
Live a good life. If there are gods and they are just, then they will not care how devout you have been but will welcome you based on the virtues you have lived by. If there are gods, but unjust, then you should not want to worship them. If there are no gods, then you will be gone but will have lived a noble life that will live on in the memories of your loved ones. So, I don't know if God exists, but it would be better for his reputation if he didn't.
"Until lions have historians, hunters will be heroes." -Kenyan Proverb
It's hard to win an argument against a smart person, but it's almost impossible to win an argument against a stupid person. So, never argue with stupid people, they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience. And never argue with a fool in public, passersby won't know who's who. So, before you try to convince a fool against his will, make certain he doesn't have the same problem.
Avoid bitterness and holding onto regrets. I never lose, I either win or learn. “Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” So, what can you do? Pick social/political causes that are important to you and consistently fight for them. I've chosen racism, poverty, ecological devastation, and war. But remember, ultimately, the only revenge worth having is living a successful life.
Live, Love, Laugh, Learn, Repeat... I hope to live long and die young.
You’re going to realize it one day — that happiness was never about your job, your degree, or being in a relationship. Happiness was never about following in the footsteps of all those who came before you; it was never about being like the others, or worshipping so-called Gods.
One day, you’re going to see it — that happiness was always about discovery, hope, listening to your heart, living with awe and following it wherever it chose to go. Happiness was always about being kinder to yourself; it was always about embracing the person you were becoming.
One day, you will understand that happiness was always about learning how to live with yourself, and that happiness was never in the hands of other people. It was always about you.
A Gentle Reminder: This life will go by fast. Don't fight with people, don't criticize your body so much, don't complain so much. Don't lose sleep over material things. Recognize the person that makes you happy. If you make a mistake, let it go and keep seeking your happiness. Never stop being a good person. Don't worry so much about buying things you can't afford, with money you don't have, to impress people that don't like you. Don't kill yourself trying to leave an inheritance for others. Those benefits should be earned by each person, so don't dedicate yourself to accumulating money. Travel, enjoy your journeys, see new places, and give yourself the pleasures you deserve. Allow dogs to get closer. Don't put away the fine glassware. Utilize the new dinnerware; don't save your favorite fragrance, use it to go out with yourself; wear out your favorite sports shoes; repeatedly wear your favorite clothes. Live in the present.
Why not forgive now? We wait so long for holidays, for Friday, for reunions, for another year, for when I have money, for love to come, for everything to be perfect. Look, perfection doesn't exist. Here is an opportunity to learn. So take this challenge that is life and do it now.
love more, forgive more, embrace more, love more intensely. Start with loving and forgiving yourself. Stay away from toxicity. To avoid unhappiness, anxiety, and depression, we need to control those things that are within our power and be indifferent or apathetic to those things which are not. Don't worry about the future, don't regret the past, but live in the present. Expect less, and stay grateful. “I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.” We allow our happiness to be stolen from us when what we think we desire is not aligned with what we might think is reality. Be careful of what you wish for, and remember, one hundred years from now, none of this will matter. Don't worry about tomorrow, and don't regret yesterday. Live, love, and be grateful for this very moment.
The mathematical formula for happiness is very simple. It's (t)=w0+w1∑j=1tγt−jCRj+w2∑j=1tγt−jEVj+w3∑j=1tγt−jRPEj. Ok, mathematically challenged, are you? The Happiness Equation in words is: your happiness is equal to or greater than the difference between the events of your life and your expectations. Be mindful, that “events” are subject to your perception, values, and vision at the present time only.
My dear ole' dad, who I will always love, was my best friend in life. He taught me well by modeling, to be true to myself. And he taught me, there is so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it hardly behooves any of us, to talk about the rest of us! He taught me how to be a compassionate man with integrity, how to be generous with praise, and parsimonious with judgment. For, the virtuous and the wicked are just exchanging notes. Every good person has a past and every bad person has a future.
Eat half, walk double, laugh triple, and love without measure! Life is short, so live your life, be happy and keep smiling. Just live for yourself and before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you meditate, forgive. Before you hurt, feel. Before you hate, love. Before you quit, try and Before you die, live.
"To be a writer you must write; to be a good writer you must read." Dr. MAVA
I want to die young as late as possible.
Life is short...break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile!
All that lives will die, and nothing is everlasting. But, our inevitable death is not the worse. The worse include the moments spent regretting the past. I never lose, I either win or learn. The worse include the moments spent worrying about the future. I practice acceptance of the things I cannot change. The worse is allowing too much of our brief voyage through space-time to slip away without doing our utmost to give it joy, meaning, and awe.
They will criticize you for what you are, for what you are not, and for what they think you are. They will judge you for what you do, for what you don't do, and for what you fail to do. They will talk about you for what you say and for what you keep silent about. They will point at you for your successes and for your mistakes, for your decisions and for your doubts. No matter how much you try to please, there will always be opinions. So, live for yourself, because in the end, the only thing that matters is being true to your own path.
Dr. MAVA’s epithet:
Manhattan-born, New Jersey-bred;
Studied science, then books he read.
Smoked his stuff;
and drank his wine.
Multi-ethnic womanizer;
human rights sympathizer.
World traveled, well-read;
Late to wed, never bred.
Tried triathlons but no win to boast;
Loved his music, the arts engrossed.
Chased life's dreams with a hopeful cry;
Wished to laugh till the day he'd die.
Now at Mt. Freedom dead;
much good, some ill, he did.
So, hope all's even, you that survive;
For if you're getting this, you're still alive.
May you be happy, and live with ease;
for everyone, you will never please.
For only the actions of the just;
Smell sweet and blossom in the dust.
REQUIEM: To Deb: Thanks for being the love of my life, but for also being my best friend till the end.
And, as the Chief Rocker, Frankie Crocker from NY radio WBLS (1972-09) would say, signing off at 8:00 PM,
“I hope you live to be 100, but me, one hundred but minus a day, so I’ll never know that nice people like you have passed away.”
I'm in the mood for love
Simply because you're near me.
Funny, but when you're near me
I'm in the mood for love.
Heaven is in your eyes
Bright as the stars we're under
Oh! Is it any wonder
I'm in the mood for love?
Why stop to think of whether
This little dream might fade?
We've put our hearts together
Now we are one,
I'm not afraid!
If there's a cloud above
If it should rain, we'll let it
But for tonight, forget it!
I'm in the mood for love
King Pleasure - I'm In The Mood For Love (aka Moody's Mood For Love)
