AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Miami
"Providing News/Information and Connecting Florida’s Black Affuencers and Infuencers"
40 Under 40 Issue
Honoring Miami-Dade County's 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow for 2016 Commissioner Audrey Edmonson's exclusive interview on Liberty Square Miami-Dade County's political season is in top gear Addressing gun violence And more...
2BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
MIAMI DADE COUNTY CHAIRMAN’S REPORT By Chairman Jean Monestime
Tackling Gun Violence is Key to Prosperity
Chairman Jean Monestime, District 2 Miami Dade County Board of County Commissioners Advancing policies to provide for greater prosperity across all income brackets has been my primary focus as Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission. I am grateful to my colleagues for the many advances we have made – including “banning the box” on employment applications pertaining to criminal history, increasing health benefits for our Living Wage workers, streamlining a low-interest
second mortgage program for first-time homebuyers earning up to $67,340 and cutting transit fares for riders earning up to $23,760 a year. The focus on greater prosperity has captured the imagination of the academic community. The Metropolitan Center at Florida International University recently published the “Prosperity Initiatives Feasibility Study” commissioned by the Chairman’s Council for Prosperity Initiatives, which I lead along with my colleagues Commissioners Barbara Jordan and Daniella Levine Cava. The study identified more policy initiatives to reduce disparities and reverse some of the economic trends that reduce our competitiveness. As state and federal officials craft policies to rebuild the middle class in Florida and across the country, we need to work in tandem to improve our local economy. This study gives us valuable guidance. Though I am delighted with the broad support of the prosperity agenda, it all means absolutely nothing to the young victims of gun violence. The Children’s Defense Fund reports that homicide is the
top cause of death for young black men, and black children and teens were 17 times more likely to die from a gun as a white child of the same age. In the last 15 months, 46 children and youth have been killed in Miami-Dade County, according to the April 2016 Children’s Trust Youth Violence Prevention Report. There can be no prosperity for a community where children are killing children. While the death statistics reveal a concentration of tragedies in the urban core, solving this problem is a responsibility that belongs to all of us. I recently met with the chairs of the Miami City Commission, the School Board and the Children’s Trust to discuss a collaborative effort. We all agree that we must all contribute resources to support a long-term, community-led effort to engage the highly at-risk youth who are engaging in this gun violence. The City of Richmond, California was once considered one of the nation’s most dangerous cities in the nation, with a homicide rate of 45.9 per 100,000 residents. The street outreach efforts and fellowship programs for violent youth initiated by the
city in 2007 contributed to a significant reduction in gun violence, as the city recently experienced its lowest level of homicides in 33 years (14.9 per 100,000 residents). This may be a model worth emulating. Studies by the Ann E. Casey Foundation regarding community change support the notion that transformation is possible if we rely on locally led efforts. The solution cannot be imposed by outside agencies. The body politic has a responsibility to provide the resources and measure the outcomes, but the implementation must be in the community’s hands. We need to collaborate with other government agencies to formulate a long-term funding plan and develop a framework to allow a locally led youth gun violence initiative to develop from within the community. Such action is needed now, because true prosperity will come to Miami-Dade County when all our youth can hope and dream of a brighter future.
www.miamidade.gov/district02
Legacy Miami 40 Under 40 Cover Photo
Honorees on cover from left to right: Devona Reynolds-Perez, Kilan Assad-Bishop, Tyrone Manning, Marquita Moore, Dr. Nkume Sobe Jr., Marcus Majors, Carlton Ford, Christopher Simmonds, Johanne Pradel Wilson, Javid Hepburn Cover Mural: Music Alive 34’ X 80’ by Addonis Parker Located in Historic Overtown on NW 11th St., and 3rd Ave., Miami, FL www.addonisparker.com
Addonis Parker
Cover Photographer: Teekay
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB3
Legacy Miami’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow for 2016
Kanecia Allen Accountant Carnival Cruise Line
Kilan Ashad-Bishop PhD Candidate, Cancer Biology University of Miami
Germain Bebe President and CEO The Greater North Miami Chamber of Commerce
T. Bernie Realtor & PR Strategist COCOACHIC, LLC
Tamika Bickham Owner and Creative Director TB Media Group
Lydia Desnoyers Certified Public Accountant Desnoyers CPA, LLC
Andrew (AJ) Donaldson Founder & CEO United Mentors LLC & The EPIC Foundation
Sandy Dorsainvil Director of Strategic Development EcoTech Visions
Anna-Bo Emmanuel, Esq. Staff Attorney Legal Services of Greater Miami
Carlton Ford Individual Giving Officer Florida Grand Opera
Ryan Hawkins Director of Corporate Initiatives Jackson Health System
Hyacinth Henderson Investment Adviser The Henderson Financial Group
Javid Hepburn Senior Conference Manager & Co-Founder of Fabulous Girls Rock! Biltmore Hotel
Ludvy Joseph, MBA President & CEO Action Bridge, Inc
Alwyn Leiba, PhD Professor Miami Dade College
Reginald A.Leon II Operation supervisor - Florida district, UPS
Marcus Majors The Entertainer: Actor, Model, TV Host, Choreographer Marcus Majors, Inc.
Tyrone N. Manning MBA Director of Marketing Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County
Francesca Menes, MPA Director of Policy and Advocacy Florida Immigrant Coalition, Inc.
Marquita Moore, MBA Fashion Designer Wamuiru Couture, LLC
Daniella Pierre, MSHRM Academic and Career Advisor Miami Dade College
Krystal Player Social Insurance Specialist- Technical Expert Social Security Administration
A. Randolph CEO & Founder World of Music Arts and Tech (WOMAT)
Devona Reynolds Perez, Esq. Attorney Murray Law, P.A.
Kylie Russell CEO & Owner Priceless One Management, LLC
Christopher Simmonds School Director & Principal CARE Elementary School
Dr. Nkume Sobe Jr. Doctor of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitative Sciences SOBE Innovative Rehabilitation
Cerise A. Sutton Executive Director Greater Miami Youth Symphony
Nadege Vilsaint Executive Director Prosperity Social & Community Development Group, Inc.
Whenda Tima Social Media Marketer L'union Creative LLC
Octavia Yearwood Arts Educator Team Ohhh Dance
Traci Young-Byron Founder/CEO Young CDT Contemporary Dance Theatre
Kervin L. Clenance Group Publisher, Legacy Magazine Erica V. Knowles-Nelson Editor-in-Chief, Legacy Magazine Denise St. Patrick-Bell PhD Copy Editor Toni Harrigan Intern Photographer Teekay
Alexis N. Brown Founder/CEO Socialxchange Miami
Cecil Griffin Valencia Gunder Vice President / Culinary Consultant Philanthropist, Community Activist Jk Catering / ChefCecilG Make the Homeless Smile Miami
Corey Wilson Johanne Pradel Wilson Digital Sales Coach Executive Creative Director (Queen of McClatchy Company, Parent Company Ideas) of the Miami Herald Media COOL Creative inc Company
Subscribe to and view the digital version of Legacy Magazine
#Legacy40Under40
Akeem Brutus Legislative Analyst Miami-Dade County, District 3
Agatha Caraballo, PhD Digital Instructor and BPA Director Florida International University
Phillip Lloyd Hamilton, MS Ed Director, Outreach & Program Development Florida International University
4BB 4BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016 MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Transforming Health Care For Our Community CONGRATULATIONS Ryan Hawkins, MSW, MPA A Ryan Hawkins, MSW, MPA, has a long history of commitmentt to our community. As director of corporate initiatives at Jackson Health alth System and a “40 Under 40 Leader,” he dedicates himself to the transformation sformation of Jackson and the continuation of world-class care for everyone. yone. Ryan, your hard work, positive outlook, and unshakable belief ef in our mission are what pave the way for future leaders. We thank ank you for all that you’ve accomplished, and we look forward to the additional contributions you will make as your career unfolds. s.
www.JacksonHealth.org
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
CITY OF MIAMI CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB5
Fund a Violent Crime Reduction and Prevention Program to Save Our Children
By Chairman Keon Hardemon
Chairman Keon Hardemon, Miami City Commission Gun violence incidents are becoming a daily occurrence in Miami-Dade County and many neighborhoods throughout the United States. Unfortunately, communities like
Overtown, Liberty City and Little Haiti are feeling the ills of this quickening epidemic more disproportionately than other communities in Miami-Dade County. These incidents of gun violence inflict paralyzing fear upon the families living amongst the heinous crimes. The suffering the communities endure also leads to an increase in health care costs, decreased property values, and a disruption in social services. Without intervention from Miami-Dade County, the State of Florida and our federal partners, our communities will continue to suffer. In 2015 thirty-three children were killed by gunfire in Miami-Dade County, which contributed to a total number of three hundred twenty-nine children killed by gunfire over the past decade. If we include adults, by April of 2016, seventy-four people in Miami-Dade County had been killed by gunfire. Resolving these issues will take a holistic approach. Therefore, besides the obvious efforts to arrest and prosecute those criminals who commit such atrocities, there must be an effort to remedy the victims of such crimes and their families that
suffer along with them. Thus, in the spirit of leadership, Miami-Dade County should initiate a program that invests more resources into areas that are most affected by gun violence. Recently, the Miami City Commission passed a resolution that urges the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners to place a non-binding straw ballot question on the general election ballot of November 8, 2016. The purpose of the question is to determine whether our citizenry would support funding a violent crime reduction and prevention program intended to service our most vulnerable communities. These communities greatly need additional monetary, social service and health care resources to ensure they are not forever traumatized by the unfortunate behavior of domestic terrorists. Without resources dedicated from Miami-Dade County, our most vulnerable communities will be hard-pressed to address their shortcomings. Therefore, if presented with the opportunity from our county commissioners, I urge our citizenry to vote in favor of
supporting a violent crime reduction and prevention program that would make a positive difference in the lives of those living in our most distressed communities. I envision a program that addresses seven major classifications: education; youth employment; family counseling; arts and culture; mental health; youth programming; and conflict resolution training. Moreover, the cost to each household to fund such a program could be as little as ten dollars per year. This would guarantee that we have a dedicated yearly funding source of more than seven million dollars to ensure that children are offered services aimed at supporting them to become healthy and productive contributors to our society. I believe that we owe each of our children, without regard to where they live, a safe environment to learn and grow. Creating a violent crime reduction and prevention program would help guarantee that our children get that chance.
www.miamigov.com/district5
Helping ignite Miami’s startup culture
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. The foundation believes that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. PHOTO © SAM GOLDBERG
@knightfdn knightfoundaiton.org
6BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Attorney Jason Pizzo Aims to Empower the Village in District 38 State Senate Race
By: Zach Rinkins
Jason Pizzo, Esq Local attorney and affordable housing champion Jason Pizzo recently announced his state senate candidacy for the newly redrawn District 38 race. Pizzo is a graduate of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, regarded as one of the most important and prestigious architecture schools in the world and the University of Miami School of Law. The American Federation of State, County
EXECUTIVE SUITE By Zach Rinkins
and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) recently endorsed his candidacy. The aspiring politician’s platform focuses on economic development, gun violence and housing. “I believe we have a responsibility to help one another realize our full potential,” the former assistant state attorney shares. “My work and my passion have focused on breaking the chains of injustice, violence and inequality, which particularly affect the youngest members of our community. As Florida State Senator for District 38, I will commit to fulfilling Bobby Kennedy’s promise of creating a ripple of hope that will contribute to sweeping away the legacy of oppression, so that all of us may enjoy the great promise of democracy.” Pizzo established himself as an effective assistant state attorney at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, during which time he successfully focused on crimes involving exploitation of the elderly, animal cruelty and violent crimes. He credits Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle with recognizing the need for new initiatives to assist the community. Now in private practice, he wants to do his part to make
sure the children of District 38 have the same opportunities that his twin 10-year-old sons enjoy. “A lot of the crime in this community, particularly the gun violence, affects and involves too many kids,” he reveals. “After spending hundreds of hours talking to kids, many of them feel like the tree in the forest that falls and nobody hears or sees it. They need mentors, caring neighbors and adults that care about them.” He adds, “It is dangerous when a child does not care about their community or feels that nobody cares for them. We all have to do something about this. We are all responsible.” Pizzo readily admits that overcoming limited resources, low wages and other economic changes influence adverse conditions in District 38. He offers this platform as a remedy: STRONGER ECONOMY, STRONGER WORKFORCE: Pizzo is dedicated to growing the middle class by supporting small businesses, expanding education and workforce training, and investing in Florida’s roads, ports and transportation
infrastructure. SAFER NEIGHBORHOODS: As a former state prosecutor, Pizzo saw first-hand the impact of youth violence and how it is plaguing a large part of Senate District 38. During his stint in the State Attorney’s Office, he helped create a street violence initiative, and brought justice to victims and their families, while identifying critical needs for juveniles. He is committed to reducing violent crime among our youth through mentorship, after-school and summer youth employment programs. BETTER EDUCATION: Starting with early education, Pizzo advocates closing the literacy gap that separates children based on their parents’ economic status. As children become young adults, we must provide extracurricular and co-curricular activities that expand their minds, range of skills and experiences. He also advocates extending professional and career development opportunities to adults. Explore the Pizzo candidacy and his platform at
www.PizzoForSenate.com
Greater Miami Youth Symphony’s Cerise Sutton Counts Service and Education as the Keys to Success
Greater Miami Youth Symphony (GMYS) is the second oldest arts organization in South Florida. The symphony Cerise Sutton prides itself Executive Director Greater Miami Youth Symphony in consistently offering music education programming to local children for nearly six decades. Each year it serves more than 1,000 students from all parts of Miami-Dade County regardless of their economic background. “GMYS has provided unparalleled music education to Miami’s children and families, which has resulted in high level performances for our community,” beams Cerise Sutton, the organization’s executive director. “This has been a truly amazing experience working with an incredible board
and championing these children.” As executive director, Sutton is responsible for the organization’s strategic vision and implementation, curriculum development and staff management. With noteworthy professional stints at Florida Grand Opera, New World Symphony and Broward County Public Schools, she is an influential member of South Florida’s cultural establishment. The longtime humanitarian says investing in a child’s musical acumen pays long term dividends both individually and community-wide. “Countless studies show the correlation between a young musician’s tendency to excel in math, self-esteem and school attendance,” she shares. “We believe music can be a civic tool, as well. We teach our students that if they go out into their communities and share their talents they can change their communities and expose them to story behind the music.” The Paramus, New Jersey native earned a Bachelor’s of Music in Bassoon Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and earned a Master’s Degree in Music Performance at
the University of British Columbia. The multi-faceted music maven is equally administrator and artist. “I started in music at a young age. Picking up the bassoon was not necessarily embraced in my community, however I understood that there was something that could be had by pursuing it,” she reveals. Though she no longer plays bassoon professionally, the award-winning executive zealously embraces her ability to, “advocate for music education in the community.” Sutton adds, “I still have a small studio of young bassoonists that I teach on the weekends. I really try to share my love of classical music on a one-on-one basis.” GMYS offers the following culturally diverse programming throughout the year: Preparatory Program - Among a small group of peers within a private setting in nine different locations throughout the county, the program strives to introduce young musicians to the joys of playing a musical instrument. Young Mozarts Orchestra -This training orchestra is for string players. Students participate in outreach concerts and
performances and learn about the fundamentals of music in a safe and fun environment. Brass and Wind Ensembles - GMYS supports five ensembles, (Young Sousas, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Concert Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra), for various age groups and instrumentalists that offer performance opportunities for intermediate and advanced young musicians. Summer Camp - With multiple levels of camps, (Beginner Camp, Intermediate Camp, Woodwind and Brass Intensive, and Spring Intensive), beginner to advanced students will enjoy high quality instruction from fantastic teaching artists, all while experiencing the joy and excitement of making music with other children. GMYS is a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization dependent on grant funding and donations. Your support is vital to the success of its programs and aspiring young musicians. Follow the rhythm
www.GMYS.org
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB7
8BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
A Change Is Gonna Come: Finding Common Ground in Liberty Square
By Audrey Jaynes
From wherever you sit—whether inside Liberty Square’s decrepit pastel walls, or behind a desk at Miami-Dade County’s Department of Public Housing and Community Development—one thing is for sure: something needs to change. And change it will. After eighty years of little preventative maintenance, the first federally subsidized housing project for African Americans in the southeast is finally slated to be redeveloped. “They’re in bad shape.” Says Michael Liu, Director of the Miami-Dade County Department of Public Housing and Community Development, about Liberty Square’s 709 units. In fact, many of the apartments are completely uninhabitable. Most residents don’t have air conditioning, let alone dishwashers or washer and dryers. Infestations of black mold, mildew, rats and cockroaches are a threat, not only to their comfort, but their health. But abhorrent living conditions are not the worst of resident’s troubles. This is a neighborhood where poverty and socio-economic isolation meet a long history of marginalization, failed urban renewal, joblessness, criminalization and incarceration; where brazen gang violence has an entire community fearing for their lives. Just over a month ago, an 18-year old young man was killed and his two young siblings injured in a shooting in Liberty City, right around the corner from Liberty Square. The shooters are still at large, and the motivation behind the young man’s death remains a mystery. It is clear that a change must come, and almost certainly will. But whether that change will be more than just cosmetic, whom it will benefit, and whether it will last—that depends on whom you ask Michael Liu, Director of Public Housing and Community Development Michael Liu is only two years into his position as Director of Public Housing and Community Development for Miami-Dade County. But the former assistant secretary of the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has seen innovation in affordable housing across the country, and his optimism about the Liberty Square redevelopment seems sincere. Indeed, Related Urban Development Group’s Liberty Square Rising proposal—which passed unanimously in a vote with Miami-Dade commissioners on July 6th—is a far cry from the rows and rows of dilapidated, infested concrete homes that
sit north of downtown Miami today. The mixed-income proposal includes 757 affordable housing units and 815 non-public housing units, which will be a mix of affordable, moderate income and market rate—plus an additional 60 housing units for homeownership. The apartments will be bigger, with granite countertops, Energy Star appliances, and central air. There will be a new community center, youth center, medical facilities, a big name supermarket, and even a museum. The proposal also calls for jobs, though most of them will be temporary, with 20% of the projected 5,780 construction jobs and 75% of the 358 post-construction jobs committed to public housing and low-income residents. From his perspective, Liberty Square Rising is as good as any innovation in public
housing seen across the United States. But his perspective is from the top, and it's on the ground-level that this project is often seen quite differently. Joaquin Willis, Pastor at Church of the Open Door For that I spoke to Reverend Joaquin Willis, who has served residents of Liberty City and Liberty Square as pastor of the Church of the Open Door for over fourteen years. During our conversation, he spoke candidly about the Liberty Square redevelopment project, and frankly, he’s not optimistic. “We are fearful that what happened in Scott Carver could happen in Liberty Square,” says Reverend Willis, and his distrust is wholly understandable. In a
Pulitzer-prize winning Miami Herald piece, “House of Lies,” the Scott Carver Homes were profiled as just one of a series of failed, incomplete or totally fictitious affordable housing projects by the Miami-Dade County Public Housing Agency and prominent developers in the area in the early 2000s. For years, millions of taxpayer dollars were squandered unchecked, developers made huge profits, and residents were uprooted while their homes were left to decay amidst empty promises of a better tomorrow. But there’s much more to Reverend Willis’ concerns than displaced residents. From his vantage point, hundreds of millions of dollars—307 million, to be exact—are about to start flowing; but the stream will once again bypass the black community. He believes that the proposal process was not conducted fairly,
and sees it as a missed opportunity for black developers to gain vital experience, particularly with tax credits. Homes will be built for ownership, but it appears that these homes, and their future equity, are are not meant for current residents. Jobs will be created, but most of them will be temporary. He fears that if transformation does occur, it could be through gentrification. Given these concerns, it’s not surprising that Miami-Dade Inspector General Mary Cagle recently acknowledged that her office is investigating allegations of favoritism and pay-offs in the proposal process. The fact is that these are fears, which—while generally ignored by the majority—are validated by history and shared by many in the black community.
Albert Milo, Senior Vice President, Related Urban Development Group (RUDG) Albert Milo is the Senior Vice President of Related Urban Development Group—the Miami developer whose proposal was chosen to redevelop Liberty Square. Milo has been meeting with Liberty Square residents since April, and it seems they’re coming around. Each meeting has covered a different topic, from small business development to healthcare and historic preservation, and has had attendance rates from fifty to four hundred residents. The initial fear—displacement—seems to be waning, as the relationship between the developer and residents grows. Lessons have been learned, which is clear when Milo stresses the importance of resident input. It’s also clear when he discusses his plans to work with the Public Defender's Office to help residents expunge their criminal records, and the Police Department on crime prevention through environmental design. It’s also evident in RUDG’s plans to rehabilitate currently vacant Liberty Square apartments and build additional off-site housing for residents to occupy while construction occurs in phases—so no one is displaced. Finding Common Ground on Contentious Soil Lessons have indeed been learned. But there is a larger, more global lesson, here, about the the fate of the black community hinging on policies and practices that have historically and consistently been determined by those outside it. This lesson is about the corrupt systems that exist which—despite media exposure and public outcry—keep the status quo from shifting. This lesson is about equity, and the inability of any group to progress without it. This is a lesson which, if learned, would position America for a more substantial type of progress. A lesson which, by validating the bitter history that exists for blacks in America, and the cogs and wheels, which prevent true change, brings the possibility of finding common ground. Can we finally do right by the black community and residents of Liberty Square; not through cosmetic fixes, resident input, youth programs, and low-wage jobs, but through ceding real ownership—of processes, policies and properties—and the monetary and experiential equity that comes with it? It seems like the answer, for now, is no. But there’s always tomorrow.
LEGACY EXCLUSIVE By Zach Rinkins
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB9
Commissioner Edmonson Advocates Fairness and Prosperity for All
According to the Journal of the Historical Association of South Florida, Liberty Square made Audrey M. Edmonson Miami-Dade County Commissioner history in 1937 for being the first public housing project built for African-Americans in the southern United States. The project was pitched as, “one of the greatest blessings that Miami ever had,” by John Gramling, a Miami attorney who helped form the Southern Housing Corporation for the purpose of developing a "negro colony" Now 79 years later, Liberty Square--affectionately called the ‘Pork and Bean’ projects--will be transformed into Liberty Rising, a multi-use commercial and residential project. News of the development aroused tension from various
REAL ESTATE By Barron Channer
segments of the Black community. After five hours of public discourse, the Miami-Dade County Commission recently voted unanimously to award the $307 million project to Related Urban Group. “This has been a difficult process for me, but my vote approving the proposal was cast to ensure this long overdue redevelopment moves forward, but with standards and safeguards for all communities involved,” Edmonson says. “It is crucial that the developer be held responsible for promises made and I hope that Related keeps its word.” Despite the difficulty, the Commissioner affirms District 3 deserves prosperity. “The redevelopment of Liberty Square has been a priority for me and the legislation supporting this effort had my leadership and full backing before a plan was ever announced to the community at-large. I remain a strong advocate for the r edevelopment of Liberty Square and for the new development in Brownsville,” Edmonson explains. She continues, “I stand in support of myresidents, as I believe they are deserving
of the best of whatever this county or a developer can offer. However, there must be safeguards for the residents of both Liberty City and Brownsville and clearly, good information shared with our community.” Edmondson asked for the following four items: 1) to see the written contractual agreements between the developer and their community partners; 2) to see liquidated damages for non-compliance by the developer with terms of the Master Development Agreement so that the County is in a position to ensure promises made by a developer are kept; 3) to develop amendments to the contract to include Board approvals should any material changes be made to whatever plan is approved; and 4) that the developer be required to give quarterly reports so that this Board can monitor the progress and be kept abreast of any significant changes that may cause concerns. “I wanted the proposal to include more mentorship opportunities so that we continue to build capacity for our smaller firms. I spoke about developing a
scholarship program for youth living in the developments,” she declares. “Public Housing is meant for transitioning to a self-sustaining life,” the Commissioner reveals. “We want to see the children of Liberty Square and Brownsville have every opportunity to advance and to succeed. All these conditions were accepted by the developer and included in the proposal approved by the County Commission on July 6th.” She wants all residents to prosper. “This community has been given high expectations and I want to ensure that they are met. The entire Liberty City area, not just Liberty Square should also rise. Brownsville, not just Lincoln Gardens Public Housing, should rise as well,” she asserts. You can visit the District 3 Office located at Caleb Center 5400 NW 22nd Ave., Suite 701, Miami, Florida 33142.
www.MiamiDade.gov/District03
Planes Need Runways and Fuel to Take Off and Fly
@BarronChanner In the business world, money is the fuel and time is the runway. Entrepreneurs often forget to calculate the amount of money and time needed to succeed because they are focused on planning and dreaming of how high the business will fly and where it
will end. This is a natural instinct. Remember that you need enough money and time for your business to take off and fly safely. As the saying goes … you need money to make money. How much and what for are the meaningful questions. How much money is needed depends on your “burn rate”. This is the rate at which you need to spend money before the business begins generating its own money. During this period, you are “burning” through cash that is yours or was raised from investors and lenders. If you have not calculated your burn rate, then you cannot know whether you have enough fuel to fly safely. If a pilot did not know whether there was enough fuel, would you feel comfortable in the plane? Calculating your burn rate involves estimating your future expenses. Business costs such as compensation for employees, fees for advisers/consultants, expenses for the office and marketing along with costs for equipment and supplies are primary components of your burn rate. However, it does not end there. Many people forget that the money needed to live is a part of the burn rate. You are your first employee and
need to be compensated. If you cannot pay your bills, then you cannot focus on building a business. If your investors and lenders will not provide money for you to pay yourself, then you need to figure out if you have enough savings to pay yourself while waiting for the business to begin paying off. Ask a simple question, would you feel safe in a plane if the pilot was more worried about how they will eat than flying the plane? Time is the runway for your business. Always assume that it will take longer than you expect to succeed. Conservative planning will reduce the chance of not having enough runway for take off. Loss of the money, time and your reputation are the penalties when your runway, even by only an inch, is too short to take off. The amount of money available and the burn rate are the primary factors that determine how long the runway will be for your business. Calculating the time needed requires that you make an educated guess about how and when the business will start making money. One way to reduce or eliminate the time needed is to acquire a business that is already making money and
build from there. Real estate investors are following this philosophy when buy existing buildings with tenants instead of building from scratch. Another approach is to line up solid paying customer(s) before starting your business. Real estate investors are doing the same when they pre-lease buildings before starting construction. Good business people, like pilots, need to have a vision of where they plan to go and the ability to move towards the destination. It is just as important to always make sure there is enough fuel (money) and runway (time) to take off and complete the journey. The first step in success is to get off the ground safely.
"You are your first employee and need to be compensated. If you cannot pay your bills, then you cannot focus on building a business."
10BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
ENTERPRISE
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Anthony Randolph’s World of Music
By Aisha M.
Anthony Randolph Anthony Randolph is a renowned musician, producer, studio engineer, recording artist, entrepreneur and mentor. He has worked with many of the music industry’s top artists such as Missy Elliot,
Tweet, Monica, SWV, Carl Thomas, Jagged Edge, Queen Latifah, and Fabulous. Anthony is the founder of the World of Music Arts & Technology (WOMAT), a program for kids that teaches the fusion of music & technology, production & arts and engineering & app creation. Anthony grew up in what was then called Carol City, now known as Miami Gardens. Anthony began as a self-taught pianist and by age 13, his parents enrolled him into the Zamar School of Performing Arts where he became an accomplished pianist studying classical and jazz composition. He graduated with a degree in Music Engineering and Music Business at Full Sail University, a leading university for entertainment, media and the arts located in Orlando. Known for his studio work as a producer, musician, song writer and studio engineer, Anthony has worked with some the top mainstream artists in R&B and Hip Hop. He first began doing session work for artists in the studio and collaborated on production and studio session work with,
Grammy-nominated producers Cainon Lamb and Streetrunner. In recent years, Anthony felt compelled to formally mentor kids and give back to the community he grew up in. Anthony recalls mentoring a young teen in his neighborhood, who was interested in the music industry, shot due to gun violence, but luckily survived. “It made me think about how selfish I had been over the years and made me realize there was a greater calling and responsibility which is mentoring and giving back. I started thinking about what kind of legacy I’m leaving behind and what i’m doing to help progress the next generation” notes Anthony. Many kids want to be rappers or recording artists. However, Anthony wants to show them the business and technology side of the music business, which has afforded him so many opportunities in his career. This inspired Anthony to form World of Music Arts & Technology (WOMAT). WOMAT has developed a music education curriculum and pop-up camps serving students from
various schools, after-schools and summer programs. WOMAT partnered with Black Tech Week this year and held its first music arts technology conference at the Miami Dade Idea Center. The conference featured speakers such as Record Executive Ted Lucas of Slip N Slide Records, and Mike Butler DJ/Entrepreneur of Silent Revolution. Anthony received a Proclamation awarded by the Miami Dade School Board for the impact of WOMAT and his phenomenal community service. Anthony currently has an album and the urban inspirational single entitled “I will Run”, which has received a lot of radio airplay. The album, which was independently produced and distributed, was inspired by many of Anthony’s family members who have survived or passed away from cancer. For more information on Anthony and WOMAT log on to www.arandolphworldofmusic.com or email him at a.randolphworldofmusic@gmail.com
FIGHTING THE BRAIN DRAIN By Kenasha Paul
Young Black Professionals’ Guide to South Florida, Part I
By Kenasha Paul, J.D., Founder and Chair of the Black Professionals Summit For years, there has been this catchphrase “brain drain” thrown around, which is this theory that intellectually talented and trained individuals are leaving their hometowns for greener grasses and bluer beaches to seek bigger pay. Even if it was possible to find nicer beaches in the United States than in South Florida, research
shows that it is not just a theory but fact. There is a high concentration of individuals, ages 25-34 years-old, leaving South Florida for larger markets such as New York, Los Angeles and for many young black professionals (YBPs) – Atlanta. Oh Atlanta, somehow you became the city to save all of black people’s problems. However, all these cities, especially Atlanta, I think want to tell people – “turn around, we are at capacity.” We all can’t realistically leave (nor should we), so for whatever reason or another South Florida is known as home. And honestly we shouldn’t want to leave, every city has its issues. However, South Florida issues should be seen as opportunities, and if you are a YBP, you really should see this developing city as a chance to stand apart and make your impact. Here are a couple tips on how to do just that:
exists in these groups that I can fix?” The different cultures we interact with indirectly or directly can lend itself to great insight to launch the next great business venture or solution to a community problem. I can’t stress this enough, as black people, we really don’t have to limit ourselves to businesses that only cater to the black market. A black-owned business's only requirement is that it be black owned. Nothing less, nothing more. Pollo Tropical was founded by two Jewish brothers, Larry and Stuart Harris. However, don’t tell anyone’s Abuela that. Those men saw that Miami was introducing a growing Latin-Caribbean market and people were going to need food that tasted like home, but faster. Now, there is a Pollo Tropical in almost every major city and few would have guessed the owners were not Latin.
See diversity as a leveraging tool South Florida is typically depicted as a very diverse region but from a Latin perspective. However, we can make this work to our advantage. Look at the different cultures and ask yourself what any great entrepreneur would ask, “What problem
Learn how to build relationships – not network South Florida is not as well known as D.C. for their networking events Networking happy hours here are still a developing trend. When people do attend, some see the events as taking part in fake deep
conversations which isn’t appealing. But there lies the problem; networking is more than doing an awkward exchange of business cards. Successful businesses are built on organic conversations and building trust. Often times YBPs do networking like it's a transaction; pitch at the event and spend 10-15 minutes talking about the idea and hope to seal the deal there. Wrong move. Your idea is great to YOU, however, what makes people decide to work together? Not the idea but the person. Spend time telling your story and taking a meaningful interest in theirs. Follow-up to discuss the idea later. Don’t just “Netflix and Chill” it, this is going to be a long-term commitment with ups and downs. You need to know who you are working with! These are just some tips on how to navigate through South Florida as a YBP and maximize your experiences here. Stay tuned for more in Part II. Kenasha Paul, J.D., is Founder and Chair of the Black Professionals Summit. Learn more about her at www.linkedin.com/in/kenasha Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: @Kenasha
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AUGUST + SEPTEMBER
Savor cuisine prepared by Miami’s top chefs
PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS TO DATE (Please visit iLoveMiamiSpice.com for an updated list of participants and lunch/dinner availability). Beaches
Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands, Miami Beach, South Beach/Art Deco District, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
3-COURSE LUNCH $23 3-COURSE DINNER $39
*3-course meal includes appetizer, entrée and dessert. Beverage, tax and gratuity are not included. NOTE: Restaurant participation, days offered and menus vary and are subject to change.
• • • • • •
#MiamiSpice ORGANIZED BY:
ENDORSED BY:
OFFICIAL SPONSORS:
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
27 Restaurant & Bar 660 at The Angler’s A Fish Called Avalon Akûa at The 1 Rooftop Bagatelle Bâoli Barceloneta The Bazaar by José Andrés Beachcraft by Tom Colicchio Bianca at Delano South Beach Byblos Cafe Des Arts Miami Cafe Prima Pasta Canvas at Sagamore Caracol Restaurant Casa Claridge’s Cecconi’s Miami Beach Cibo Wine Bar South Beach Cleo The Continental Deck Sixteen Dolce Italian Driftwood Room Drunken Dragon The Dutch Miami Essensia Restaurant & Lounge Estiatorio Milos by Costas Spiliadis FAB Fresh American Bistro Fifi’s Place Seafood Restaurant Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse The Forge Restaurant & Wine Bar George’s Italian Restaurant & Lounge Hakkasan at Fontainebleau Miami Beach IL Mulino NY – South Beach Il Mulino NY – Sunny Isles Beach Izzy’s Fish & Oyster Jaya Juvia Miami Katsuya South Beach Kitchen 305 Klima Restaurant & Bar La Côte at Fontainebleau Miami Beach La Moderna Miami Larios on the Beach Le Zoo Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann LT Steak & Seafood Lure Fishbar Macchialina Makoto
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Mare Mio Market at EDITION Meat Market Mr. Chow – Miami NaiYaRa The National Hotel – Tamara’s Bistro Neomi’s Grill O’lima Signature Cuisine Pao by Paul Qui Pied à Terre @ The Cadet Hotel Prime Fish Prime Italian Pubbelly Quality Meats Quattro Gastronomia Italiana RED, the Steakhouse The Restaurant at Grand Beach Hotel Surfside The Restaurant at The Raleigh Rosa Mexicano South Beach Santorini Greek Restaurant Sardinia Enoteca Ristorante The Sarsaparilla Club Scarpetta at Fontainebleau Miami Beach Smith & Wollensky Restaurant The Social Club The St. Regis Bar & Sushi Lounge STK Miami Beach StripSteak by z Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach Sugar Factory American Brasserie Sunny’s Sushi Garage SUSHISAMBA Miami Beach Talde Miami Beach Tanuki Texas de Brazil Miami Beach THYME The Tides Restaurant & Terrace Timo Restaurant & Bar TiramesU Traymore Restaurant at COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach UMI Sushi & Sake at Delano Villa Azur Restaurant & Lounge Villa Castelli Vintro Kitchen Yuca Zen Sai Restaurant
Downtown
Brickell, Downtown Miami, Edgewater • 1111 Peruvian Bistro • 15th & Vine Kitchen and Bar • Area 31
• Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room • Azul • Bahia at Four Seasons Hotel Miami • Bavaria Haus • Biscayne Tavern • Cantina La Veinte • The Capital Grille • Casablanca On The Bay • Catch Grill and Bar • Cipriani Downtown Miami • Coya • Crust • CVI.CHE 105 • db Bistro Moderne • Downtown Bistro • E11even Rooftop • EDGE, Steak & Bar • El Cielo Restaurant • Embarcadero 41 Fusión • Farfalle • Fooq’s • Graziano’s Restaurant Brickell • Kaori by Walter Martino • Komodo • La Mar by Gaston Acurio • La Terraza Cafe & Bar • Marion • Mignonette • Morton’s The Steakhouse – Brickell • Novecento – Brickell • PB Station • Perricone’s Marketplace and Cafe • PM Fish & Steak House • Quinto La Huella • River Yacht Club • Rosa Mexicano Mary Brickell Village • Seaspice • Segafredo Brickell • STK Miami • Tamarina Restaurant & Bar • Toro Toro • Toscana Divino • Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House • Tuyo at Miami Culinary Institute – Miami Dade College • Wolfgang’s Steakhouse – by Wolfgang Zwiener • Zest Restaurant & Market • Zuma
Mainland South
Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Homestead, Kendall, Key Biscayne, Pinecrest, South Miami, Westchester
• 33 Kitchen • Anacapri Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – Pinecrest • Angelique Euro Café • Ariete
• Aromas del Peru • Bellmónt Spanish Restaurant • Bizcaya • Brasserie Central • BrickTop’s Coral Gables • Bulla Gastrobar Coral Gables • Cafe Catula Restaurant & Art Gallery • Caffe Vialetto • Cantina Beach • Casabe 305 Bistro • Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar • Christy’s Restaurant • Cibo Wine Bar Coral Gables • Devon Seafood + Steak • Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar • Fontana at The Biltmore Hotel • Francesco Restaurant Coral Gables • Graziano’s Restauant Bird Road • Graziano’s Restaurant Coral Gables • Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill • Kebo Restaurant • La Palma Ristorante & Bar • Lazuli Lounge • Mariposa at Neiman Marcus • MesaMar Seafood Table • Morton’s The Steakhouse – Coral Gables • Novecento – Key Biscayne • OBBA Sushi & More • Old Lisbon Restaurant Sunset • Ortanique on the Mile • Palme d’Or at The Biltmore Hotel • Palmeiras Beach Club • Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge • Pascal’s on Ponce • Peacock Garden Cafe • Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar Kendall • Puntino Key Biscayne • Red Fish Grill • RedLander Restaurant at Schnebly Winery • The River Seafood & Oyster Bar • Rusty Pelican Miami • Ruth’s Chris Steak House • Sawa Restaurant & Lounge • Seasons 52 • Shula’s 347 Grill • Spartico • Spasso • Strada in the Grove • Talavera Cocina Mexicana • Trust & Co. Bar and Restaurant • Two Chefs Restaurant
Mainland North
Airport Area, Aventura, Doral, Miami Design District, Miami Lakes, Midtown, Morningside, North Miami Beach, Upper East Side, Wynwood
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
5300 Chop House 94th Aero Squadron Adena Grill & Wine Bar Alter Anacapri Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – Miami Lakes B Bar Tapas & Grill Beaker & Gray Big Fish Restaurant BLT Prime Blue Collar Blue Matisse Restaurant and Nau Lounge Bocce Ristorante BOURBON Steak Miami Brasserie Azur Bulla Gastrobar Doral Chef Rolf’s Tuna’s Seafood Restaurant CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar Cypress Tavern Dragonfly Izakaya & Fish Market El Gran Inka Restaurant – Aventura The Gang Miami GKB Wynwood KYU La Fontana Ristorante La Riviera at Pullman Miami Airport MC Kitchen Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink Midtown Oyster Bar Miranda Restaurant Morton’s The Steakhouse – North Miami Novecento – Aventura Novecento – Midtown Pinch Kitchen Pisco y Nazca Doral Plant Food + Wine Miami Proof Pizza & Pasta R House Rioja Grille Salumeria 104 Shula’s Steak House Soyka Inc. SUGARCANE raw bar grill The Tuck Room Vagabond Kitchen & Bar Via Verdi Cucina Rustica
©Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau — The Official Destination Sales & Marketing Organization for Greater Miami and the Beaches. // CS-02129
BB11
12BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
POWER COUPLE
By Zach Rinkins
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Simmons and Jones Sustain Love with Faith and Simplicity
Acclaimed sculptor Troy Simmons and Local 10 personality Constance Jones The romance of Constance Jones and Troy Simmons may seem like a preview into a charmed life. The Emmy-nominated Jones graces T.V. screens as on-air talent for Local 10 and Simmons is an internationally acclaimed artist. The dynamic duo are grateful for 13 years together, nine years of matrimony and more than a dozen hustles and jobs between them. Though that sounds glamorous and sophisticated, the Legacy 40 Under 40 alums
attribute their successful relationship to love and simplicity. “We value simple things. I have to be to work very early in the morning and even though Troy works late into the night, he always walks me to my car every morning,” Jones shares. “And, he surprises me with little notes around different areas of the house. Those notes are worth more than diamonds. It lets me know he is thinking about me.” They contend with the ebbs-and-flows of real life like everyone else. “A big misconception is that people think that if you’re on television, you must be rich,” she says. “But, journalism is a nomadic business with many uncertainties. There have been times I was not making as much money as people might have thought and people were
getting laid off at my job. I was terrified.” The couple approach challenges with creativity and pluck. “When we moved from Oklahoma, I left a good business environment where I built over 300 homes, to come to Miami and the recession hit,” Simmons informs. “As people were getting evicted in our building, I’d notice a couch here or another item there. So, I’d call Constance and say, ‘we may have something we could sell on EBay.” Adds Jones, “Listen, I could not let my colleagues know I was dumpster diving and selling people’s stuff on EBay. But, we got it done.” The pair created a few ventures to increase revenue streams. Troy is an architect, artist, realtor and sculptor, among other things. Constance is a media personality, owners of the Huggabeans brands of children’s clothing, and several online ventures. Those ups-and-downs taught them the value of teamwork. “More than anything Troy has been my teammate,” Jones reveals. “I had to learn how to understand that Troy is my teammate and not my enemy. Simmons continues, “We have to lean on and rely on
each other. What affects me, affects her. At the end of the day, it’s you and your spouse against the world.” The Simmons-Jones tandem say that couples can avoid monotony by having a maintenance plan. “It is very important to bring your best self to your relationship. When you first start a relationship, you are always trying to impress your partner. You have to keep that up,” Simmons encourages. “And, we have been together virtually every day since our second date. That has been our intention. Staying focused and not getting too comfortable is a challenge. But, it must be done.” Faith plays a large role in their union. “We really feel that God called us to do some important work on the earth,” Jones declares. Simmons says, “I learned how to step out on faith from my mother. She taught us that you have to have faith in your dreams and to dream big dreams.” Log on to www.local10.com/news/constance-jones, for more information about Constance Jones. Discover Troy Simmons at www.TroySimmonsStudio.com
Mayor Carlos Gimenez
DELIVERING A SAFER COMMUNITY FOR OUR FAMILIES Mayor Carlos Gimenez has implemented an ambitious plan to increase public safety.
Paid electioneering communications paid for by MIami-Dade Residents First, 2121 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Suite 1100, Coral Gables, FL 33134
Hired over 130 new police officers in the last year and is committed to continue allocating resources to public safety in his new budget Implemented a system of 1,000 police body cameras to enhance and maintain trust between our community and police department, making Miami-Dade Police Department the largest police department in the Southeast using body cameras Championed the Youth and Community Safety Initiative, providing mentoring and social programs for at-risk youth, focusing on early intervention
MAYOR CARLOS GIMENEZ
ALWAYS PUTTING MIAMI-DADE RESIDENTS FIRST
POLITICS
By Chris Norwood
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
Black Issues always Trump in Presidential Elections
Christopher Norwood Spokesman for the Democratic Black Caucus of Florida Principal of Norwood Consulting There is a history of Black Issues winning presidential elections dating back to the 1850s. Our issues appeal to the passions and morality of the American Voter at a rate higher than those who argue against. Therefore, we should not be afraid to champion issues like Black Lives Matter, African-American Public Health, Urban Education Reform, Youth Violence Prevention or Criminal Justice Reform. History informs us that this sort of Advocacy wins Presidential Elections. In 1856, U.S. Senator Fremont of
California became a candidate for President for a two-year old Republican Party with an abolitionist platform of “Free Soil, Free Labor, and Free Men”. Although Fremont lost in 1856, it set the stage for 1860 when a former Congressman by the name of Abraham Lincoln because the first Republican President of the United States. Black Issues elevated a newly formed party to victory in 1860 which led to the Civil War and the end of America's Great Disgrace – Slavery. African-American loyalty to the Republican Party begins during this time, and then eventually ends as a result of their acquiesce to Jim Crow. Then in the 1930s, Black voters were drawn to the new 21st Century Democrat Party because Roosevelt’s New Deal spoke to the disenfranchised. The result: Roosevelt won his elections by landslides in 1932 and 1936. By the time Harry Truman desegregated the Army in 1948, more than half of African-American voters were registered Democrats for the 1st time and Southern Democrats like Strom Thurmond walked out of the 1948 Democratic Convention and never returned. Then the 1960s brought us the Civil
Rights Act and Voting Rights Act, and Black Folk voted 90% for the Democratic Nominee because Black Issues were top tier national concerns. Democrat Lyndon Johnson defeated Republican Barry Goldwater in the most lopsided election in the history of America. Democrats won almost every Presidential Election from 1932 to 1968, a time analogous to the African-American transition to the Democratic Party. But today, the Florida Democratic Party doesn't respect our vote. Case in Point: Senator Dwight Bullard, who also happens to be the Chair of the Miami Dade Democratic Party, is running for re-election in a district that was redistricted substantially. District 40 has a strong Hispanic Democratic demographic. Sen. Bullard is an upstanding gentleman who has done nothing but represent his district and the local Democratic Party with Integrity, Intellect and Passion. What else do we want from a sitting Florida Senator? The Florida Democratic Party elite have decided that Dwight Bullard can't win this seat because he's Black. They've placed a Hispanic former Republican legislator in the race, and another candidate who is a major
BB13
Democratic Party fundraiser. Both candidates are connected to the Florida State Democratic Party and National Democratic Party, and should appreciate the importance of Black voter loyalty to the Democratic Party, since we make up 30% of Florida's Democrats. In 2016, we've become invisible to our party because of our unwavering loyalty. The Florida Democratic Party doesn’t feel the need to broker our votes or our leadership. The party doesn't court Black voters, they merely pay for Get Out The Vote Campaigns (G.O.T.V.). So often asking our religious leaders “so how are you getting your parishioners to the polls?”. But our pastors are increasingly telling the Democratic Party: “Why am I telling my parishioners to do this again? Where’s that 2016 Civil Rights Act again?” We have to stand for Black Issue Advocacy because Black Issues always Trump. Christopher Norwood is the Spokesman for the Democratic Black Caucus of Florida and Principal of Norwood Consulting. www.thenorwoodconsultinggroup.com @noahsblues | @tncgsolutions | chris@thenorwoodconsultinggroup.com
Bringing a voice to Tallahassee for the Everyday Floridian
WŽůŝƟĐĂů ĂĚǀĞƌƟƐĞŵĞŶƚ ƉĂŝĚ ĨŽƌ ĂŶĚ ĂƉƉƌŽǀĞĚ ďLJ ǁŝŐŚƚ ƵůůĂƌĚ͕ ĞŵŽĐƌĂƚ͕ ĨŽƌ ^ƚĂƚĞ ^ĞŶĂƚĞ ŝƐƚƌŝĐƚ ϰϬ
14BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS
The Power of Small Businesses and Why it’s a Good Time Start One
By Denise St. Patrick-Bell, PhD
Dr. Denise St. Patrick-Bell Fortune 500 companies represent two-thirds of the U.S. GDP with $12 trillion in revenues, $840 billion in profits, $17 trillion in market value and employ 27.9 million people worldwide. But according to the US Dept. of Commerce, small businesses contribute much more to the U.S. economy and society as a whole than can be calculated just from the
spending and profit that they generate. These businesses tend to be more economically innovative than larger companies; more able to respond to changing consumer demand; and more receptive to creating opportunities for women and minorities and activities in distressed areas. What constitutes a small business? The SBA defines a small business as an enterprise having fewer than 500 employees. As of the 2010 Census, there were 27.9 million small businesses registered, compared to only 18,500 companies of 500 employees or more. The most important thing to note is that 99.7 percent of U.S. employer firms are small businesses, and fifty –two percent are home-based. The small-business sector catalyzes economic expansion in ways which are generally overshadowed by the media focus on big business. Small businesses generate half the nonfarm output of the U.S. economy and employ about half of all Americans not working for government, while adding 60 to 80 percent of net new (non-governmental) jobs annually. The small-business sector also
contributes to social cohesion by serving as an entry point into the economy for new or previously slighted workers. For instance, women-owned small businesses generate nearly a trillion dollars in revenues annually and employ more than 7 million workers. Small businesses increasingly generate entrepreneurial opportunities for minorities, which census data show as owning 4.1 million firms that generate $695 billion annually and employ 4.8 million workers. Small businesses consistently bring economic activity to distressed areas; about 800,000 companies (90 percent of them microenterprises) are located in the poorest areas of the 100 largest U.S. cities. Have you thought about starting your own business? Not sure where or how to start the process? Rest assured you are not alone. Most of us have dreamed of owning a business, but many more have abandoned their dreams of entrepreneurship. But the good news is that the number of black owned businesses has been rising steadily since 2002. The less good news is that although African Decent persons in the US comprised 13.1 percent of the 18 and older population in 2012, only 9.4 percent of all U.S. firms were black or African
American-owned. In December, 2015, the United States Census Bureau reported that based on its latest Survey of Business Owners, there were 2.6 million black or African American-owned firms nationally in 2012, up from 1.9 million or 34.5 percent from 2007. So is this a good time to rethink your dream? Absolutely! With all of the resources available, business plan writing, technical assistance and coaching, microlending programs and grants, there is little reason not to pursue entrepreneurship. And our South Florida communities are ripe for black business growth. Since 2006 Florida has consistently ranked in the top 5 states in the number of black owned businesses. Nationally, Miami-Dade County is ranked fifth and Broward County ranked ninth. So take those business plans and ideas off the “later” shelf and start working them NOW. Dr. Bell is the owner of GAICON LLC and a Principal in Global Strategic Partners Alliance, companies dedicated to the growth of the non-profit and small business sectors from concept to capitalization. For more information www.gaicon.net
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT By Gary T. Hartfield
Gary T. Hartfield, Director Miami-Dade County Small Business Development
Adding Value to Small Business
As the director of Small Business Development (SBD), a division of Miami-Dade County’s Internal Services Department, I’m charged with ensuring that a minimum of ten percent (10%) of the County’s dollars spent in procuring goods and services are with small businesses. My staff and I are facilitators in ensuring the prescribed 10% is the floor and not the ceiling. SBD is responsible for the administration of the County's Small Business Enterprise, Wage and Workforce Programs. Responsibilities include administering and enforcing the County's certification process for the Small Business Enterprise Programs and the Federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program; conducting outreach, management and technical assistance to small businesses; placing small business measures on County contracts; monitoring contracts to ensure small business measures are met along with Community Workforce measures, responsible and living wage requirements and ensuring that the County
Prompt Payment Ordinance is adhered to. This is no small undertaking, however SBD is committed to the economic development and growth of the County’s small business community. During the fiscal year 2014-15, there were approximately 1,500 firms certified in the Small Business Enterprise Programs. That number has increased during this fiscal year due to our outreach efforts to expand our small business portfolio in all areas of County procurement – particularly those areas of “low to no” small business participation. As a result of the untiring efforts of SBD in applying small business measures, there was $294 million awarded to certified small businesses in fiscal year 14-15, which was 17% of County purchases. Through ongoing training and monthly forums, SBD collaborates with industry experts and organizations to provide small businesses with beneficial information adding value to their business and opportunities for growth. SBD also assists small businesses in navigating through
County processes and provides technical support which includes, but is not limited to assisting with the resolution of payment and contract disputes. Small businesses are the driving force behind the local economy. From mom and pop businesses to high-tech start-ups, small businesses create most new local jobs and provide opportunities for growth and renewal of our communities. SBD continues to serve the small business community with dedication and innovation, working with them daily to increase their development and growth through participation in County contracting. SBD recognizes that being a small business owner is not for the faint of heart; it’s for the brave, the patient and the persistent. We continually tell our firms “Believe you can and you’re halfway there”. SBD stands ready to assist them with the other half - to success. For additional information go to www.miamidade.gov/smallbusiness/.
BUSINESS REPORT
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB15
Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council to Operate Miami MBDA Business Center That Will Help Minority Businesses Grow Exponentially By Beatrice Louissaint
Beatrice Louissaint President and CEO Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council
The Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) is the new operator of the U.S. Department of Commerce Miami Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center serving southern Florida. The center’s goal is to help minority-owned firms create jobs, develop their businesses and compete in the global economy. The Center will help minority firms grow by providing access to capital, technical expertise, advanced business consulting resources and innovative management services. In addition, the Center’s Business Resource Lab will offer workshops and seminars, a computer lab and a business library. Annually, the goal of the Miami MBDA Business Center will be to help minority companies garner more than $111 million in procurement contracts and financial transactions. Companies that are 51% owned or controlled by African Americans, Hispanic
Americans, American Asians and Pacific Islanders, Native Americans (including Alaska Natives, Alaska Native Corporations and Tribal entities), Asian Indian Americans and Hasidic Jewish Americans are eligible for the services from the Center. Federal appropriations subsidize the services the Miami MBDA Business Center provides to clients. Fees which are based on the service provided and the client's gross sales will start at $10 an hour. Since 2009, MBDA Business Centers across the nation have helped minority firms gain access to more than $31 billion in capital and contracts, while creating and retaining nearly 142,000 jobs. The Business Centers are integral to fostering greater economic vitality across the US. To learn more about the services of the Miami MBDA Business Center or to schedule an appointment with a business consultant, visit www.mbdamiamicenter.com or call (305) 751-2907.
Beatrice Louissaint is President and CEO of the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council. The organization’s goal is to increase purchasing from minority businesses by government entities and corporations, while increasing Minority Business Enterprises’ operating capacity through hands-on business assistance, training and access to technology and capital resources. Founded in 1975 in southern Florida (formerly named the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council –SFMSDC) and expanded to cover all of Florida in January 2016, it is one of 23 regional councils affiliated with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). The FSMSDC acts as a liaison between corporate America and Minority Business Enterprises in the state of Florida. To learn more about the FSMSDC, visit fsmsdc.org or call (305) 762-6151.
16BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
WELLNESS
By Nzingah Oniwoson
@YesBabyILikeItRaw About 11 years ago I lost a family member to gun violence. To be more specific a police officer killed that family member. It was the age before hash tags and social media giants like Facebook and Twitter. However, it was such a high profile case that media outlets picked it up, the NAACP got involved, the mayor was at the funeral, protests took place, charges were filed and dropped, an officer was fired and a civil case was won. In 2015 my cousin would have been a hash tag, and because of the
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
Self Care Practice During Times of War trauma of his murder I feel and hurt in a different way when a new name is added to our list of hash tags. I know intimately what those families are going through; so more than being sympathetic I am empathetic to their loss. It is much harder to grieve when the media and community are scrutinizing your lost loved one and your family. The truth is whether we want to admit or not we are at war. All wars are not overt like the crisis in the Middle East; we have a war on violence, drugs, equal rights, health care and the list goes on. On a larger scale collectively as people of African decent, the tragedies we have been experiencing are one more chip off of our already bruised heart. Anxiety has become commonplace. We hope everyday that our loved ones come home safely. We hope when we hear about a crime that the criminal isn't black. We often question and check our behavior to make sure we are not the stereotypes perpetuated in media. We are one millimeter away from breakdown. With months like July, topped with everything else we are processing, it’s a miracle that we have some resemblance of sanity. Our mental health is in crisis. Most of us
are depressed but because of stigmas we will not acknowledge it. Depression in its simplest terms is a response to loss. No one can exist on this planet and not experience loss because with life comes death. Clinical depression is where it gets in the way of your everyday life. How do we maneuver through these highs and lows? Through intention, an intentional self-care practice to be exact. That is only way we can maintain our sanity. Social media definitely has its pros but the cons are sometimes evasive. We are being exposed to emotional and psychologically harmful content that only exacerbates the situation. The following is a list of some self-care practices that help you maneuver through the feelings of hopelessness, sadness and anger.
"Anxiety has become commonplace. We hope everyday that our loved ones come home safely. We hope when we hear about a crime that the criminal isn't black. ... We are one millimeter away from breakdown."
Self-Care Practices During Times of War • Disconnect from social media • Un-friend individuals with unhealthy posts • Find ways to process stress (cry, meditate, counseling, dance, write, exercise, scream in a room by yourself, yoga) • Do something (volunteer, mentor, join an organization) • Talk to a friend For more information follow Nzingah on instagram @yesbabyilikeitraw and visit her website www.yesbabyilikeitraw.com.
Congratulations! Y Florida Grand Opera salutes
Carlton Ford for being selected as one of Legacy Miami magazine’s 40 under 40 Most Influential Black Leaders for 2016. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the South Florida arts community. We are truly proud of you!
Florida Grand Opera’s mission is to shape the future of opera and to connect diverse audiences through its power and beauty.
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016 MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MEDIATION/ARBITRATION AN ALTERNATIVE TO LITIGATION MEDIATION/ARBITRATION AN ALTERNATIVE TO LITIGATION By Stanley Zamor By Stanley Zamor
BB17 BB17
“Two Mountains Can Never Meet, But Two Men Can” “Two Mountains Never always Meet, But Two Men Can” available. Mediation is a confidentialCan and voluntary contentious matter. So, if you want to
Stanley Zamor, Stanley Zamor, Florida Academy of President/CEO President/CEO Florida Academy of Professional Mediators, Inc. Professional Mediators, Inc. “Two Mountains Can Never Meet, But Two “Two MountainsMen Can Never Can” Meet, But Two Men Can” This is an old proverb that I sometimes This is an old proverb thatItI denotes sometimes reference during mediation. how reference mediation. It denotes how even whenduring stonewalled in adverse positions, even when stonewalled in finding adversecommon positions, men can still be moved to men canConflict still be moved to finding ground. is inevitable. Andcommon when ground. inevitable. Andin when businessConflict ownersisfind themselves business themselves discourseowners such asfind vendor contractin discourse such conflicts as vendorwith contract discrepancies, employees, discrepancies, conflicts with employees, labor force issues or a partnership labor force issues a partnership separation, filing aorlawsuit is the customary separation, filing a lawsuit the customary response; but NOT the onlyisresponse. response; but NOT the only response.
Mediation confidential voluntary alternativeistoa litigation thatand often has an alternative to litigation often hassystem. an amicable end not foundthat in the court amicable end mediator not foundI in the court system. As a certified strive towards As a certified mediatorthat I strive “Win-Win” outcomes besttowards suit the “Win-Win” bestonsuit thetwo parties. Thisoutcomes article willthat touch only parties. article will touch on only two aspects This of mediation and introduce aspects of mediation introduce mediation as a meansand to resolve disputes. mediation as a will means to resolve disputes. Future articles focus on specific business Future articles willmediation focus on specific business disputes and how and other disputes andto how mediation otheras a alternatives litigation, can and be used alternatives to litigation, can be used valuable resource when dealing with as a valuable business resource matters. when dealing with business matters. Mediation Provides Access and Can Mediation Provides Access and Can Preserve Relationships Preserve Relationships Mediation also offers access to legal Mediation also offers to legal services. The 2016 resultsaccess of a Florida Bar services. The 2016 results of a Florida Barof commissioned report revealed that 80% commissioned that 80%orof the public lacksreport accessrevealed to legal services the lacks accessWow! to legal legalpublic representation. So services only 20%orof legal representation. only 20% of the public has access Wow! to legalSoservices, yet the public has access to licensed legal services, there are over 100,000 Floridayet there are over 100,000provides licensedunbiased Florida attorneys. Mediation attorneys. providesthat unbiased access to aMediation balanced process allows access a balanced process that allows partiesto flexible opportunities to craft a parties flexible to craft resolution that opportunities they have control of. a resolution that they have control of. by an Whether the parties are represented Whether thenot, parties aretorepresented attorney or access mediation isby an attorney or not, access to mediation is
always available. Mediation can also preserve/mend a Mediationbusiness can also relationship, preserve/mend a deteriorated while deteriorated business relationship, while helping to redefine roles between the helping redefine roles between the parties. to I’ve mediated between business parties. mediated between entities I’ve where the plaintiff was business suing for entities where plaintiff was suing for of more than twothe hundred thousand dollars more than two hundred thousand dollars unpaid invoices. The dispute became uglyof unpaid invoices. disputewas became and personal andThe a lawsuit filed. ugly During and personalmonths and a lawsuit was filed. the various of litigation, theseDuring the various months of how litigation, these businessmen realized they still needed businessmen how stillsmall needed one another’srealized services, duethey to the one another’s services,So, duethrough to the small business marketplace. the business marketplace. So,were through mediation process, they able the to mediation they were able resolve theprocess, issue and preserve theirto resolve issue and preserve their into a personalthe relationship. They entered personal relationship. They entered into awas new acceptable contract and the matter new acceptable and the matter was closed and case contract withdrawn. closed and caseWhy withdrawn. Mediate? Whyrole Mediate? The mediator’s and function is to The mediator’s role and function while is to keep the process fair and balanced, keep the process fair and balanced,inwhile facilitating settlement discussions a facilitating settlement discussions in a the manner that is confidential and keeps manner is confidential and keeps the parties inthat control of the outcome. Mediation parties in control the outcome. Mediation does not, and willofnever replace litigation, does replace litigation, that isnot, notand thewill goalnever of mediation. Mediation that is notanother the goaloption of mediation. is simply availableMediation to those is simply option available to those who manyanother need another way to resolve a who many need another way to resolve a
contentious matter. So, if youdispute want to resolve a simple or complex and resolve a simple complex dispute and save time, moneyorand resources, mediation save time, and resources, can be themoney alternative to litigationmediation that can be your the alternative to litigation that meets needs. meets your needs. If you have a specific dispute thatyou If you a specific thatyou would likehave me to responddispute to, please use the would me to respond to, please the contactlike information appearing belowuse and contact information appearing below and tell me about it. tell me about it. Stanley Zamor is the 2015-2017 Stanley Zamor is the 2015-2017 President/CEO of the Florida Academy of President/CEO of the Florida Academy Professional Mediators, Inc. He is the of Professional Inc. He is theto hold youngest andMediators, first Haitian-American youngest and Mr. firstZamor Haitian-American this position. is a Florida to hold this position. Mr.Certified Zamor isCircuit a Florida Supreme Court Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil/Family/County Mediator/Trainer and Civil/Family/County Mediator/Trainer and Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator. Florida Supreme Mr. Zamor servesCourt on a Qualified number ofArbitrator. federal Mr. serves on a number ofrosters federaland and Zamor state mediation/arbitration and mediation/arbitration and has astate private mediation and ADRrosters consulting has a private mediation and ADR consulting company where he mediates/arbitrates and company he mediates/arbitrates and facilitateswhere workshops. facilitates workshops. szamor@i-mediateconsulting.com szamor@i-mediateconsulting.com www.i-mediateconsulting.com www.i-mediateconsulting.com www.LinkedIn.com/in/stanleyzamoradr www.LinkedIn.com/in/stanleyzamoradr (954) 261-8600 (954) 261-8600
18BB
Carlton Legacy Ad.indd AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
In Memoriam: Richard Patrick Hall, Aviator, Servant and Man of Faith
Legacy joins the South Florida community in mourning the loss of one of its esteemed contributors, Richard P. Hall. Hall soared to unprecedented heights as an aviator, public servant, and community servant. “Richard had impeccable character. He lived a very rich life centered on faith, love and service to others,â€? says wife LaTĂŠssa Hall. Hall became the ďŹ rst student from Bastrop High School in Louisiana to receive a congressional appointment to the United
1
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
7/8/16 3:10 PM
States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. After earning his commission and degree from the academy, he served in the Air Force from 1979 to 1992. He ew more than 3,500 cumulative hours in the C-130 Hercules and C-141 Starlifter aircraft and was chief pilot in the 76th Airlift Squadron at Charleston Air Force Base. He also served in the Persian Gulf War. He later transitioned to commercial aviation as a pilot for United Airlines. “Richard, a pilot by profession, an engineer by education and an Air Force oďŹƒcer by training, was a dedicated father with a giving and caring heart. He married my sister and I was proud to call him my brother,â€? said brother-in-law Al Dotson Jr.,Esq., in a recent Miami Herald obituary. Along with his wife, Hall is survived by son Bryant, daughter Briana, two brothers and ďŹ ve sisters. He was an active member of the Fountain of New Life Church. The family created the Richard P. Hall Eagles Foundation, to provide scholarships in the ďŹ elds of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Donations can be made to the Richard P. Hall Eagles Foundation at ww.RichardPHallEagles.com. Marcia Del Rey 1/4ad.indd 1
7/20/16 9:28 PM
Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust
Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP) Making Homeownership Affordable
Expanding Our Industry Network
First-time Home Buyer Program
HAP Orientation Seminars
MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP) provides first-time homebuyers with down payment and closing costs assistance through a zero-interest, non-amortized, forgivable loan.
From realtors to closing agents to mortgage providers, HAP operates within a growing network of industry professionals. MDEAT trains and certifies these professionals which stimulates growth of the subsidized first-time home-buying market.
Educating Buyers
Advocating for Homeownership Housing Advocacy Committee (HAC)
Housing Education Workshops HAP partners with housing counseling agencies from across Miami-Dade County. Reaching nearly 1000 first-time homebuyers a year, HAP helps to increase their understanding of the purchase process so they can make well-informed purchase decisions for themselves and their families.
MDEAT invites industry professionals and concerned housing advocates to join HAC. Through its breakfast discussion series as well as its strategic and event planning sessions, HAC advocates for housing program changes, helps homeowners retain their homes, promotes comprehensive financial literacy, and reports on the state of housing for low-to-moderate income residents.
FOR MORE INFORMATION MDEAT Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP) www.miamidade.gov/EconomicAdvocacyTrust 5 t .%&"5*OGP!NJBNJEBEF HPW
!.%&"5*OGP
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
TECHNOLOGY By HCIII
Yemani Mason CEO and Founder VestMunity Serial entrepreneur, web developer, online marketing expert and Real Estate investor Yemani Mason is starting VestMunity. This crowdfunding real estate company is positioned as the next monumental tech invention out of Silicon Valley but it is right here in South Florida and you too can become a major investor. In the fifth grade, Mason won a fundraising contest that sparked an entire
ARTS & CULTURE By Aishah Davis
Kiese Laymon VONA/VOICES, Voices of Our Nation, kicked off summer workshops for emerging writers of color at the University of Miami with new faculty and classes. The workshops were held June 19 to June 25
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
BB19
The Mason In The Tech-Estate Industry wholesaleand distribution candy operation. More so, he extended credit to its buyers and kept a weekly settlement account ledger in his composition notebook. This coming-of-age maverick grew to promote parties in High School at a local skating rink that grossed over $25,000 from its inaugural bash. He continued promoting in college. At Florida International University he began taking on a new venture to conquer, the Tech-industry, after building his very own computer. Upon graduation, Mason found initial success in the tech field with BlackBerry, Chrome, and creating apps. With these towering business in the tech world, he was afforded a world-class education of booms and busts in technology. Simultaneously, from his parents with West-Indian roots in the United States and Jamaica, Mason learned the value of real estate. As a side-venture, he reaped the benefits in the housing market. In November 2015, Yemani Mason began to research the new rulings for crowdfunding in the Jobs ACT- Title III. The seemingly separate worlds of crowd
promotion, technology and real-estate, in which he had individually achieved great success, began colliding. For background, The U.S. Law previously prohibited unaccredited investors earning less than $200,000 a year without a net worth of $1 million from investing in private companies in exchange for equity. However,now with this new ruling, crowdfunding finally allows an individual to invest in startups through online purchasing of equity securities in crowdfunded companies. Before, only if you were wealthy or a bank, could you invest in real estate like the stock market. Now with the new rules on crowdfunding, you can pool smaller amounts of money online from large groups of people on the internet. Mason began building his business the same way that many tech startup founders do -- at home, on his laptop, spending hundreds of hours coding on the blueprint to what would become VestMunity (inVEST and comMUNITY) for the masses. With VestMunity he is breaking down the barriers to entering the real estate market. Mason's home state of Florida has three
of the top five national metro areas with distressed properties. He knows that by rehabilitating and reselling properties 2880004_ through VestMunity he can rebuild property values and communities. Recently, he was 10.2 awarded $20,000 in seed money by entering a competition about his idea at the Miami Fintech Forum. The Forum was the first event in a nationwide collaboration between Citi Community Development Village Capital. The event’s objective was to bridge the opportunity gap for minority and women tech entrepreneurs taking on the challenges in financial inclusion, health and education. Full disclosure, VestMunity has not yet fully opened and is still only accessible to accredited investors, but they are in the application process for the accreditation. Once realized, Yemani Mason will give the power to the people to invest in their community and create a better society with VestMunity. Learn more about VestMunity: Office: 1-844-837-8476 Email: team@vestmunity.com Website: www.vestmunity.com
Voices of Our Nation and June 26 to July 2. Renown black southern writer, editor, essayist and professor, Kiese Laymon, was selected by faculty and directors to instruct the workshop to cultivate writers in the growing field of Essay. Kiese Laymon is acclaimed for his collection of essays, How to Slowly Kill Yourself and Others in America. His work has been included in the Best American Series, the Best Net Award, and the Atlantic Best Essays of 2013. He is also the author of Long Division and has written for numerous publications inclusive of Colorlines, Esquire, The Los Angeles Times, and Guernica and is currently a columnist at The Guardian. Under the supervision of Laymon, writers had the opportunity to hone their essay writing skills and learn from their peers in a creative collaborative working environment. Laymon hopes that the attendees of his workshop walked away with a lot more than skill and tips to perfect their craft. “I want them to leave as better writers, leave with more tools and with working relationships with other writers of color” says Kiese Laymon. “You need that community as writers. There wasn’t
anything like VONA when I started out.” Involvement with VONA/VOICES is a unique opportunity for writers of color. It was developed to help cultivate emerging writers of color through programs and workshops taught by well-established writers of color. Through their programs and workshops they empower and encourage these writers to articulate their experiences as people of color through the lenses they possess. These workshops not only offered traditional writing workshop genres like fiction, poetry and memoir but also adapted their offerings to include popular writing genres such as travel writing and LGBTQ narrative. Each year VONA’s directors and faculty look to bring on new and exciting genres for their participants that reflect the growing writing opportunities and audiences for their work. Always on the cutting edge of what is current and relevant for today’s writers, they survey their participants of the previous years workshops for suggestions on what they want added to the offering of classes for the following year. The feedback from the previous year, led to the addition of Essay for this year’s workshop offerings.
“Essay provides an outlet for writers to share their craft”, says Diem Jones, Founder and Director of VONA. “Essays are popular and we now look at different ways we can inspire people to read. More essays are published than books, therefore it is a field that is growing and there are more opportunities for writers to enter into the field.” In keeping with staying relevant to the needs of writers and their audiences, Essay was not the only new class added to VONA’s schedule. Young Adult literature was also offered and taught by Daniel Jose Older, author of New York Times Bestseller, Shadow Shaper. Although they have added these new classes, the previous year’s workshops Poetry, Memoir, Political content, Fiction, Speculative fiction, LGBTQ Narrative and Travel writing remained on the roster for writers to attend.
“Essays are popular and we now look at different ways we can inspire people to read."
20BB
AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO MIAMI HERALD
MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016
5 5 c
There’s power in every story. We believe every voice deserves to be heard. And the greatest untold story is your own. Wells Fargo’s MyUntold Story Collection celebrates voices from every generation across the African American community and we encourage you to share your story. We proudly shine a light on an enduring legacy of triumph, spirit, and achievement simply because African American history is American history. Watch the stories and share your own at wellsfargo.com/myuntold.
© 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. (2880004_18525)